ALEXANDRIA, LA – Incoming Louisiana State University of Alexandria women's basketball player Tonka Jakšic has been representing Croatia for the last five years.
The junior guard most recently represented Croatia at the FIBA Women's Eurobasket 2026. Croatia reached the quarterfinals after eliminating Latvia in the Round of 16. Jakšic made six appearances in the tournament and scored 15 points. She registered nine points against Spain in the group phase, knocking down a trio of shots from long range.
Jakšic has donned a Croatia jersey in four separate FIBA tournaments since 2021 with the U14, U16, U18, and U20 Croatia squads, playing against the top youth talent in Europe.
"Being a part of the Croatian national team has always been one of the biggest honors of my career," Jakšic said. "Ever since I started playing basketball, I've dreamed about representing my country. There's no better feeling than stepping on a court knowing you're playing for your country, your family, and everyone back home. Being able to achieve that dream and represent Croatia at all Youth National Team levels is something I'm incredibly proud of."
As a member of Croatia's U18 squad in 2023, Jakšic helped guide her country to a gold medal win over Luxembourg, 93-66, in the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket Division B. During the tournament, Jakšic scored a career-high 10 points and added five assists, to steals, and a pair of rebounds.
The Split, Croatia native has garnered four gold medals, six silver medals, and two bronze medals for Croatia at National Championships.
"The U20 team was my fourth time representing Croatia, and every experience has been special on its own way," Jakšic added. "Each summer has helped me grow, both as a player and as a person, and competing against some of the best young players in Europe has taught me a lot. Those experiences gave me confidence and prepared me for the next step in my journey at LSUA."
Jakšic spent the past two years at NCAA Division II Eastern New Mexico University before signing with LSUA this summer. She appeared in 47 games over two seasons for the Greyhounds and shot 41.7-percent from the field. Jakšic tallied 31 assists, 33 steals, and 45 rebounds over two seasons.
"I'm excited for this new chapter at LSUA and can't wait to get to work," Jakšic said. "I'm ready to give everything I have for the team, compete every day, and do whatever it takes to help us win. I'm looking forward to being part of a great group, building something special with my teammates, and helping the program have a successful season."
The Generals open their season on October 22 with an exhibition at the University of Louisiana Lafayette, before their regular season opener on October 30 at Faulkner (Ala.).
