DENVER – Crossing the midway point of his collegiate career this summer, junior Touko Tainamo had the experience that every athlete dreams of as a child, the opportunity to represent their country on the world stage.
This summer, at the 2023 FISU World University Games in China, Tainamo represented his home country of Finland in this year's basketball competition at the games.
"Being able to represent my country has always been an honor to me," Tainamo said. "I've followed Finnish basketball since I was a kid, so now that I have the opportunity to be a part of it, feels amazing."
In five appearances in the World University Games, Tainamo averaged 10.4 points and 8.4 rebounds, while adding three assists, three blocks and three steals to his stat ledger. Tainamo shot 61.5% from inside the arc, including two 70+ percent double figure performances.
"I'm thrilled that Touko earned the opportunity to represent his country at the World University Games in China this summer," head coach Jeff Wulbrun said. "I know it was an incredible experience for him both on and off the court. I have no doubt that Touko's experience with the Finnish Team has significantly impacted his growth and development as a player and will provide great dividends this season."
The Helsinki native had a tournament-high 15 in the opener against Azerbaijan, and had a double-double in Finland's game against South Korea on July 30, putting up 11 points and 11 boards to go with two assists.
Denver is set to return to practice for the 2023-24 preseason on September 14.
The 2023-24 Pioneers:
2022-23 Summit League All-Newcomer Team pick Tommy Bruner returns as the leading scorer for the Pioneers, averaging 15.9 point, 4.2 assists and 2.8 boards a year ago. Touko Tainamo was the third of five Pioneers that averaged double figures last season, pouring in 10.6 points and pulling in 6.4 rebounds per game. Denver brings seven newcomers to the program heading into the 2023-24 season, including a pair of true freshmen.
In addition to its attendance, Denver will look to continue its climb in wins under Wulbrun, taking the program from two wins the season before his arrival to 11 in his first campaign and 15 in the 2022-23 slate.
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