Japan is one of the favourites coming into September’s World Cup and to have an international team of this calibre in Sydney is a crucial preparation opportunity for world number three Australia ahead of their first home World Cup since 1994.
The Opals, who are automatic qualifiers alongside rivals Team USA, have medalled in five of the last six World Cups, including a gold medal in 2006.
In announcing the games, with a third to be played at Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Basketball Australia has released the extended Australian Opals World Cup squad that includes WNBL MVP Anneli Maley, two-times Olympian Cayla George and All-Star 5 captain Sami Whitcomb.
Opals Head Coach Sandy Brondello is keen to play more games at home.
“Covid certainly threw up challenges with our inability to compete internationally and gain vital match practice,” she said.
“Having games against a quality opponent, such as Japan, is invaluable and will give fans a taste of what’s to come in September.”
Australian Opal Keely Froling knows these games will be critical preparation on the road to the World Cup.
“We will all be bringing our A-game, we know the quality of the Japanese team and the discipline they play with so this is an incredible opportunity for us,” she said.
“We can assure the fans we will be putting it all out on the court next month.”
Book for the Sydney Olympic Park games on Friday and Sunday, May 27 (7.30pm) and 29 (3pm) at premier.ticketek.com.au/opals.
Watch Opals shine bright against Japan
POLISHING up their moves, Australian Opals are preparing to take on Olympic silver medallists Japan in the lead up to the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022, during two exciting games at Sydney Olympic Park late next month.
