The Opals’ upcoming international series against China in will also feature the involvement of another major force in women’s basketball, with Japan joining the training environment in Melbourne.
While fans will see the Opals and China go head-to-head at John Cain Arena on 7 and 9 July, additional training preparations will also take place, with Japan taking part in a series of closed scrimmages and training sessions across the week.
The inclusion of Japan creates a unique preparation opportunity for all three programs, bringing together three of the strongest nations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Japan has long been one of the most respected and consistent programs in women’s basketball, known for their speed and perimeter shooting, while China continues to establish itself as a powerhouse in the international game with their size, depth and physical presence.
Basketball Australia’s Executive General Manager of High Performance Jason Smith said the opportunity to have multiple international teams together in one environment would deliver significant benefits for the Opals program.
“This is a really valuable opportunity for our athletes and staff to spend a week competing and training against high-quality international opposition,” Smith said.
“Having Japan involved alongside China creates a really strong performance environment for the Opals, with both teams bringing different styles, strengths and challenges that will be valuable for World Cup preparation.
“These kinds of international windows are important not only from a performance perspective, but also in continuing to grow strong relationships with other federations across our region.
“We’ve built really positive relationships with both China and Japan over the years and we’re looking forward to welcoming them both to Melbourne for an exciting week of basketball.”
The Opals will face China at John Cain Arena on 7 & 9 July, with tickets available now via Ticketek.
This is the bit where Melbourne roars. Where winter belongs to the crowd, the clash, the edge-of-your-seat moments you feel in your chest. It's the scent of fresh coffee drifting out of laneway roasters, the neon-lit glow of hidden bars that feel like secrets, the sudden warmth of a gallery, a gig, a perfectly timed bowl of something slow-cooked and soul-filling. At Melbourne's iconic sporting venues, the atmosphere is everything. It's the shared chants, the collective gasps, the thrill of being part of something bigger than yourself. Come winter in Melbourne, it’s every bit different.
