A sea of green and gold welcomed the Australian Opals back to home soil as they opened their two-game series against China with a 76–74 thriller at John Cain Arena.
Returning to Australia for the first time in two years, the Opals overcame a three-point quarter-time deficit before taking control through a dominant third term.
The Opals held China to just six points in the period, turning a four-point halftime lead into a 15-point advantage before withstanding a late comeback from China to secure a Game 1 win.
Zitina Aokuso was outstanding with 15 points, six rebounds, three assists and four steals, while captain Steph Reid led all scorers with 16 points to go with five assists.
Alex Fowler and Isabelle Bourne each added 12 points while Sitaya Fagan, Alicia Froling and Bonnie Deas also celebrated their Opals debuts, each earning their first senior international cap.
"The atmosphere was unreal. We're so happy everyone came out to support us," Aokuso said.
"China's a great team and they stayed with us throughout the whole game, so we're really excited for Thursday."
The Opals now turn their attention to Game 2 on Thursday night, where they'll look to complete a series sweep.
Box score available here.
Tickets are still available 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.
