Asian 'advantage' and success key to WNBL's future

The WNBL believes it has a golden opportunity to gain an upper hand over its rival codes as it looks to shake up rules that will allow more Asian players to feature in the competition.

The league wants to expand its footprint in the Asian region and has begun doing so, with three new Chinese players entering the competition this season.

They join towering superstar Han Xu, whose introduction to the WNBL last campaign helped the league experience a surge in crowd and viewership numbers.

The Australian-Chinese community’s support has also continued to gather pace this season, most notably in Sydney, where spectators are turning up to cheer on guard Yang Shuyu.

Because of the growing success Asian players have brought to the league, chief operating officer Justin Nelson says they have a chance to transform the competition into Australia’s biggest women’s tournament.

“The WNBL is currently exploring an opportunity to bring in a rule similar to that in the NBL which allows clubs to sign a restricted player from Asia, in addition to international imports,” Nelson said in a statement to AAP.

“With the immense popularity of basketball in Asia, we believe the WNBL has an unfair advantage over Super Netball, AFLW and NRLW, and we intend to maximise that advantage fully.

“Exposing the WNBL to a wider talent base will also ensure our Aussie stars are thriving because iron sharpens iron.”

Tapping into the Asian zone comes as Japan, South Korea and China’s national teams are all ranked within the top 15 of women’s basketball nations.

The Australian domestic competition is also set to compete with European tournaments, the 3v3 league Unrivaled and the big-money Project B, for eyeballs.

Perhaps moving into a market that boasts more than a billion people could help the WNBL cut through, and Yang backed the decision to change the eligibility rules.

“It’s good for Chinese players because there can be more opportunity for us,” she told AAP ahead of the Sydney Flames clash with the Tasmania Jewels on Saturday.

“China and Australia have always had a strong connection ... there will be more players coming here next year.

“My national teammates always ask me, How are you feeling? How’s the basketball ... they are a little bit jealous.”

Another recruit, Wanglai Zhang, has only played two games for the Geelong Venom but has noticed an immediate difference between the Australian and Chinese leagues.

“It’s faster, more physical on the body, more competitive,” Wanglai told AAP ahead of the Venom’s clash with UC Capitals on Saturday and Bendigo Spirit on Monday.

In round three, Adelaide Lightning will aim to win the first game of their campaign when they face Southside Melbourne Flyers on Sunday, before Townsville Fire host Perth Lynx on Tuesday.