Five WNBA stars named Opals’ squad for FIBA Asia Cup
Centre Cayla George is adamant the USA are beatable at next year’s Tokyo Olympics, which makes next month’s FIBA Women’s Asia Cup an important lead-up event for the Opals.
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The might of the USA might be the team to beat at next year’s Tokyo Olympics, but Aussie starlet Cayla George is adamant the red-hot favourites can be toppled as the Opals gear up for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup.
The Melbourne Boomers WNBL centre was selected in a squad of 16 to contest next month’s tournament in India.
She will be joined by five WNBA stars, headlined by the towering Elizabeth Cambage, to play in the pre-Tokyo event from September 24-29.
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The Opals are on a path to revenge after they were last year denied gold by Team USA at the Women’s World Cup in a heartbreaking final.
“The Americans are always going to be favourites going into an Olympics,” George said. “I think that’s just realistic to say that, but they’re beatable.
“The US are a great side. You have to be at your best, and we weren’t for that final.”
Before even contemplating an Olympic date with their nemesis, the Opals will first have to make it out of Group B against close rivals New Zealand, China and The Philippines.
“We’ve really got to make sure that do well in these tournaments to ensure we’re in a good pool at the Tokyo Olympics,” George said.
OPALS FIBA ASIA CUP SQUAD
Rebecca Allen, New York Liberty
Elizabeth Cambage, Las Vegas Aces
Leilani Mitchell, Phoenix Mercury/Southside Flyers
Sami Whitcomb, Seattle Storm
Stephanie Talbot, Minnesota Lynx/Adelaide Lightning
Darcy Garbin, Townsville Fire
Abby Bishop, Townsville Fire
Sara Blicavs, Southside Flyers
Jenna O’Hea, Southside Flyers
Katie Ebzery, Perth Lynx
Lauren Mansfield, Perth Lynx
Cayla George, Deakin Melbourne Boomers
Eziyoda Magbegor, Deakin Melbourne Boomers
Lauren Nicholson, Adelaide Lightning
Nicole Seekamp, Adelaide Lightning
Marianna Tolo, UC Capitals
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