ANKARA (FIBA World Championship for Women) - Jana Vesela is simply loving being back in a Czech Republic vest and helping her nation post a flying start to the FIBA World Championship for Women.

The veteran forward had a very different experience last year, when her first outing at EuroBasket Women 2013 ended in tears as she was carried off to hospital in agony.

An ACL injury meant her tournament was over and as it turned out, so too was any chance of playing a part in the historic run of ZVVZ USK Prague to the Final Eight of EuroLeague Women.

It's been a long road back for someone who has been a true warrior throughout her career. Now playing at her third FIBA World Championship, Vesela is revelling in being able to enter the theatre of battle once more.

"For me it is an incredible feeling just to be able to be out on the court and most importantly knowing my knee is fine," she declared after helping Czech Republic ease past Japan 71-57 in Group B.

I had a long time out and lots of time to think about enjoying these moments again. - Vesela

On Sunday, it was her frontcourt partner Petra Kulichova who actually got the Czechs rolling towards victory with a huge second half, having looked like she would miss the competition with an injury.

"She is so important for us and I was really happy that we had someone to throw the ball to inside," said Vesela.

"She made the difference and did a great job."

As for how much happier Vesela might end up getting during the next week or so?

"I don't do predictions," she said laughing.

"I have been to enough tournaments to know that I prefer the step-by -step approach."

And, when it comes to taking steps, one of the most important of the tournament so far was the first one Vesela took on opening day against Brazil as she finally completed her long rehabilitation.

FIBA