Basketball star Emma Meesseman receives Belgian National Sports Merit Award
On Friday, Emma Meesseman became the first basketball player ever to receive the Belgian National Sports Merit Award. She received the trophy from Princess Astrid at Brussels City Hall. Last summer, the 32-year-old led the Belgian women's basketball team – the Belgian Cats – to a second consecutive European title.
Under the leadership of American coach Mike Thibault, the Belgian Cats won their second consecutive European title in June, following their victory in 2023. They defeated Spain in the final in Piraeus, Greece. After the match, Emma Meesseman was named Player of the Tournament.
Meesseman also excelled again this year at the club level. The Fenerbahçe player was honoured as MVP of the prestigious Euroleague for the third consecutive time in April.
“This is, of course, a great honour. It is unique to receive this trophy as a basketball player, as a team player,” she said at the award ceremony. “I have always said that I would like to make history, and this is a wonderful way to do so.”
“It's an award that also says something about your personality, what you stand for,” added Meesseman. “I've always found it important not to get carried away and to stay true to myself. With the Cats, we think it's important to remain accessible to the fans and young people. I've heard that the basketball team could also win this title, so that might be our next goal.”
“I have always said that I would like to make history, and this is a wonderful way to do so”
According to the jury, Meesseman was rewarded “for her exceptional career, both at club level and with the national team. She has been named MVP several times, both in Europe and in the USA. She has also led the Belgian Cats to two European titles and, with her strong personality, has undoubtedly inspired many Belgian girls to take up basketball.”
The Belgian National Sports Merit Award has been awarded since 1928 and can only be won once by an athlete or sports team. The winner was chosen by an eleven-member jury of (former) sports champions and sports personalities. Meesseman succeeds cyclist Lotte Kopecky on the list of winners.
#FlandersNewsService | Emma Meesseman receives the Belgian National Sports Merit Award at Brussels City Hall © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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