Amanda Zahui on the culture hook - and interpreter Harry

She has been to countries such as Russia, Turkey, Hungary and the United States. During the fall, Amanda Zahui tested a new track in her career: the club Shandong in China.

A big contrast to her second life as a player in the New York Liberty and WNBA.

- It has definitely been difficult. Completely different from any other country I lived in. It was tough at first but I have got into it now. I love my team and my coach, my teammates are fantastic, ”says the 26-year-old to SVT Sport.

- Basketball-wise, I'll do everything. I'll take the most difficult shots and tough returns. Be the leader all the time. And I am the oldest, so there is a certain responsibility there as well. It has been difficult. At the same time it has been good because I get to develop my game.

But it is not only in the baskets that life in China differs from Zahui's past experiences. Sweden's biggest basketball star is the only import into the team and lives with constant patronage as she moves around town.

- I can't go anywhere without Harry, my interpreter. Partly because no one speaks English in my city and partly for security, that I'm the only black player.

Is it dangerous then?

- I don't know if it is dangerous, but Harry says he has to go near me if someone should kidnap me. Which I don't think would happen, but he knows more than I know.

- It was actually when we were in the grocery store that I asked Harry why he was watching us all the time. Then he replied that there was a risk of being kidnapped. I asked no more questions but just nodded and kept on shopping. And try to keep as low a profile as possible.

Playing in two teams is common among women players in the WNBA. The US season is short (five months) and therefore two employers are required to have playing time and go financially.

However, a new agreement has now been signed for seven years to come, which means better compensation and maternity leave with full pay.

How hard is it to play for two clubs on completely different sides of the world?

- Now I'm used to it. I'm entering the sixth year. It's fun, something you want and have been fighting for your entire life. Obviously, the body takes a mental break, but with the right resources you can stay healthy and fresh. I invest a lot in recovery.

Say that with the new agreement you would manage on your WNBA salary alone, would you just play for one club then ?

- I do not know. I love to play, that's the thing. I love to go around the world, playing in both Euro league, China and USA. I have a year left in New York and then we will see where I end up. I don't focus too much on that yet.