Boomers, China to clash in Perth
Australia will strengthen its basketball ties with the game's fastest growing market following the announcement of a new international series between the Boomers and China.
Under an arrangement brokered by Wildcats great and four-time Olympian Andrew Vlahov, Australia and China will, for the next five years, play matches in Perth, probably Shanghai and an undisclosed third city on an annual basis.
The series has the support of the WA Government.
The YouYi Games will start on June 24 with a clash at Challenge Stadium. However, it is unlikely that either team will feature their NBA stars.
Australia's Andrew Bogut was unlikely to be available due to commitments with Milwaukee while Chinese star Yao Ming has missed the entire NBA season because of injury.
However, teams are expected to be at full strength in the lead-up to the London Olympics, should the teams qualify in their respective zones.
Boomers coach Brett Brown said the series presented a great opportunity for the young Boomers side.
Australia Boomers and China are ranked No.9 and 10 under FIBA's world rankings.
"The Boomers and China have always enjoyed a competitive close relationship over the years and this series will be no different," Brown said.
In Chinese, YouYi means 'friendship'.
