ANKARA (FIBA World Championship for Women) - Anna Cruz completed what proved to be a classy comeback at the FIBA World Championship for Women to put her EuroBasket Women 2013 disappointment behind her.

After being overlooked last year and missing out on the podium topping triumph in France, Cruz has responded in fine style.

"Yes, it's been perfect for me since last year and I always just try to do my best," she mused after harvesting a smart and efficient 12 points, to help Spain make a real statement with an opening 74-50 success against Japan.

"I think we played some great defense as we didn't let Japan make many three-point shots - and the defense is always the most important aspect for me.

As usual, we will go step by step and we really want to make the Final - Cruz

Her national team return followed on from a stunning season in EuroLeague Women with Nadezhda where she provided inspiration for a maiden trip to Final Eight.

She was then handed minutes with the New York Liberty.

"I was playing as a point-guard in the best league in the world in the WNBA," reflected Cruz.

"It was difficult as you have to be mentally tough and physically ready, but it has really helped my game."

Many WNBA fans are also waiting for her team-mate Alba Torrens to belatedly head Stateside, but her colleague is content with what she currently has on her agenda.

"Maybe one day, because  it is a great league," explained Torrens.

"But I enjoy playing in EuroLeague Women and I just can’t fit everything in.

"I love playing for my country so much every year and I think everyone who knows me, understand just how much I really do love to wear the vest of my national team."

Spain face a second day match-up with Brazil in Group A.

FIBA