Posted on 2 June, 2010

BY GILBERT GARDINER
Yarra Ranges/Maroondah Journal

THE Kilsyth Lady Cobras are set to take on the Japanese national team in Melbourne to prepare for a three-game series against the Australian Opals.

The rampaging Lady Cobras will take on the full-strength Japanese team from 6.15pm next Tuesday at the Kilsyth Sports Centre.

Kilsyth Basketball president Malcolm Allison said he was proud to be able to bring national basketball to the outer east.

"It’s a great honour to be able to play a national team. Hopefully our girls can soften them up a bit for the Opals."

Allison said the game was a great chance for some young Lady Cobras to test their mettle on the international stage.

"We’ve had college teams here before, but this is the first international squad to visit. This is a great test for us, especially as the Japanese girls prepare for the world championships."

Allison is looking forward to point guard Jordy O’Shea taking her place on the court.

O’Shea, 17, has played all her junior basketball in Kilsyth and came up through the South East Australian Basketball League D-League competition.

"Jordy’s been with us since U10s," Allison said. "She’s come into the team this year and made the most of her opportunities."

O’Shea was given a chance to show her talent following a season-ending injury to Lady Cobras recruit Deanne Butler.

Tip-off is at 6.15pm on June 8 at the Kilsyth Sports Centre, Liverpool Road, Kilsyth. Entry: $2

Opals World Challenge Details

Bendigo Basketball Stadium, Victoria – 9 June

TICKETS call the Bendigo Spirit office on (03) 5444 4208

TICKETS visit www.basketballgeelong.com.au or call 03 5277 1388 or available from the Basketball Geelong office Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

Dandenong Basketball Stadium, Victoria – 11 June

TICKETS call 03 9794 7192 or purchase from Dandenong Basketball Stadium