How to watch the Australian Opals/China Series

The Australian Opals are back in action with a two-game series against China in preparation for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup later this year.

On July 7 and 9, the Opals will take on China at John Cain Arena from 5:30pm AEST live and free on 9Go! and 9Now.

The team is stacked with talent, featuring All-WNBL First Team members Ally Wilson and Courtney Woods, alongside Championship teammates Alicia Froling, Alex Fowler and Abbey Ellis.

With Olympian Amy Atwell, Tasmania Jewels stars Steph Reid and Darcee Garbin among the squad, 11 WNBL27 players will suit up in the green and gold this week.

Two new WNBL talents, Siyu ‘Rainy’ Wang (Southside Melbourne) and Siuyu Yang (Sydney Flames) will also be in action, giving fans a first-look at their new stars on Australian soil.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Amy Atwell

Fresh off the 3x3 FIBA World Cup, one of Australia’s best sharpshooters has one thing in mind: defence. Challenged by Gangurrus Head Coach Damon Lowery, Atwell rose to the occasion in the World Cup – helping Australia finish runners-up to the United States.

Returning to a five-against-five format, Atwell is ready to put her defensive improvements to the test against China.

“I’ve gotten some feedback in the past from the coaching staff,” Atwell told AAP.

“It’s no secret for me that my defensive side of the ball has needed some work and needed some attention, and that’s what I’ve been focusing on.”

With her scoring potential unquestionable, can Atwell prove to herself and the coaching staff she’s a truly dynamic two-way threat?

Steph Reid

Two years since her last WNBL game, Steph Reid has finally returned home and will suit up for the Opals, before settling in Tasmania.

The Frankston junior will play in in front of friends and family in hopes of making her first World Cup team for September.  Having played across Europe, Reid will feel right at home when the World Cup tips off in Berlin. The crafty sharpshooter and premier point guard will be conducting the Opals offence this week, aiming to prove once again that heart wins over height.

Siyu Wang

As one of the Southside Melbourne Flyers’ key signings this offseason, Siyu ‘Rainy’ Wang will play in front of her new fans at home.

Given the Opals' heartbreak at the last World Cup, where Rainy sunk two free throws to prevent Australia from making the gold medal game, she will be on the minds of every Australian fan heading into this week.

As a talented shooter and National Team representative, Flyers fans will fill out John Cain Arena to see a glimpse of what’s to come in WNBL27 from Wang.

See the full Australian Team roster below

Zitina Aokuso (Adelaide Lightning)
Amy Atwell (UC Capitals)*
Chloe Bibby
Isabelle Bourne (Sydney Flames)*
Bonnie Deas
Abbey Ellis (Townsville Fire)
Sitaya Fagan
Alex Fowler (Townsville Fire)
Alicia Froling (Townsville Fire)
Darcee Garbin (Tasmania Jewels)*
Cayla George (Southside Melbourne Flyers)**
Steph Reid (Tasmania Jewels)*
Maddy Rocci (Geelong Venom)
Ally Wilson (Sydney Flames)
Courtney Woods (Townsville Fire)

Pending League approval*
Cayla George will miss the series due to pregnancy **