Credit: REUTERS - Scanpix
Credit REUTERS - Scanpix

Some sporting performances create a lasting impression that may bring some chances players never thought was possible. Japanese basketball star Rui Machida dazzled fans all around the world during Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games. Now she's been signed to the WNBA for the Washington Mystics.

The 1.62-meter point guard led Japan national women's basketball team to a surprising silver medal last summer. Machida averaged 7.2 points, a whopping 12.5 assists, and 2.3 rebounds during the 2020 Games.

Machida is most notable for breaking the single-game Olympic record with 18 assists in a victory against France. “Rui is a very exciting signing for us. She is one of the most dynamic point guards in the world and perfectly fits our style of play,” Mystics head coach and general manager Mike Thibault said after the signing.

“She pushes the tempo offensively and creates great opportunities for her teammates both in transition and in the half-court," the coach continued. "We can pair her with any of our guards to give us different looks with our lineups. Her teammates will love playing with her and our fans will love watching her play.”

Machida has been playing in the Japanese Basketball League ever since the Olympics. She appeared in 18 games for Fujitsu Red Wave during the 2021-22 season, averaging 10.7 points on 59% percent shooting, 8.3 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game.

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