Becky Harwood-Bellis is in her first season with the Manchester Mystics, but the 15-year-old, whose twin brother, Taylor, plays football for Manchester City and England, is already making her mark.
Here, she tells us why she likes basketball and reflects on her Great Britain debut in the summer.
How did you get into basketball?
Becky: My brother. Someone came into my school. St Philip’s in Stockport, to run some basketball lessons. My brother said he wanted to start and I said I didn’t. I’ve always been scared to try new things. He really wanted to do it but said he would only do it if I did it. I decided to give it a go.
And you liked it?
Becky: I couldn’t even catch a ball when I started, but I stuck at it. I’d tried other things, like ballet, but nothing really appealed. I had two left feet when it came to football. With basketball, I enjoyed the amount of stuff there was to learn. And I liked the physicality, the toughness.
Now you’re a GB international!
What was it like to get selected for the European Championships?
Becky: I cried a lot. I was in pure shock. Everyone else believes in me, but I don’t believe in myself.
Who was your debut against?
Becky: Denmark. I was so scared. I didn’t tell anyone I was scared. My brain was doing overtime. My first touch of the ball, I shot a three. I was so happy.
What difference has playing for GB made to you?
Becky: My confidence levels have gone from zero to a hundred. But I’ve still got more to give. I’ve also learned that if I want something I can achieve it.
So what now?
Becky: My weakness is still my confidence. I need to believe in myself.
And another Euros in 2018?
Becky: I’ve got more of a chance having played in one already, but I’m not taking anything for granted. I’ve got to keep on working.