Flames quartet selected for Opals’ Chinese tour

The Australian Consulting Opals announced on Friday their team – featuring Flames’ Tess Madgen, Cayla George, Lauren Nicholson and Renae Garlepp (assistant coach) – for a China tour, from May 26 – June 3, as part of their Olympic preparations.

The three games will be a prelude to the Australia v China games for Ford BALLIN’24 series to be held at John Cain Arena, Melbourne July 3 and 5.

The international games against China will be played in Benxi City and Shenyang City.

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Head coach Sandy Brondello and contracted WNBA players will be unavailable for this tour however the importance of international games in the lead-in to Paris can’t be understated.

“We have a diverse squad that we will need to narrow down to 12 players, games such as these where we test players in real conditions with travel, accommodation and multiple games is where we can make some key assessments,” said Brondello.

“There will be another tour announced soon that will give other members of the squad an opportunity then we will cut the list down for the Melbourne games.

“It’s exciting to see how we match up against China, we have a competitive history, and I know the team is going there for the win.”

Joining Sydney trio Madgen (who will once again captain the side), George and Nicholson in the 12-person squad are Georgia Amoore, Zitina Aokuso, Chloe Bibby, Isobel Borlase, Darcee Garbin, Lauren Jackson, Alice Kunek, Steph Reid and Maddy Rocci – with Garlepp joining the coaching staff of Cheryl Chambers and Kristi Harrower.