Seven Consulting Opals finish 2 -1 in international tour of games in China

The Seven Consulting Opals have defeated China 2-1 in a three-game series, winning the first two games 72-70 and 80-72 before losing the final friendly 75-68. 

Tess Madgen (Opals captain), Cayla George and Lauren Nicholson played crucial roles over the course of the series.

The Seven Consulting Opals kicked off their international run with a 72 –70 triumph over China in Benxi City in Game One of the China Tour (Basketball Australia).

Australia’s Opals found edge from long range, particularly in the first half finishing the game 7 – 17 from beyond the arc.

Captain Tess Madgen finished with 5 points and 6 assists, Cayla George finished with three points and four rebounds while Lauren Nicholson finished with 4 points, 1 rebound and 2 assists.

Lauren Jackson continued her imposing run from the WNBL into Opals duties with 17 points and six rebounds.

Game two saw the Seven Consulting Opals continue from where they left off  – holding out against China to claim a 80 – 72 victory in Game Two of the China Tour.

Australia’s rebound game set up the offense for success – led by Cayla George who brushed off a quiet performance in the opener. George finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds

Game three saw The Seven Consulting Opals fall short 68 – 75 in, but gained invaluable insights with some different looks on the court.

Australia opted to rest veterans Lauren Jackson and Tess Madgen with Cayla George, Steph Reid, Lauren Nicholson, Darcee Garbin and Alice Kunek starting on deck.

The Opals prioritised working the ball into the paint with George continued her dominance on the boards with 10 rebounds alongside 10 points. Lauren Nicholson finished with seven points, three assists.