Boomers to play Canada in two-game basketball series in Perth featuring NBA stars
Australia's Boomers will get an early look at one of their World Cup group opponents when they host Canada in a two-game series in August.
The games on August 16 and 17 at Perth's RAC Arena will serve as ideal preparation for the Australians just a fortnight out from the World Cup in China.
"This announcement is another landmark moment for Basketball Australia in such a special time for the sport. We are thrilled to bring the Boomers back to Perth for the first time since 2014," Basketball Australia Chairman Ned Coten said.
As revealed in The West Australian, it is hoped NBA star Ben Simmons will make himself available for the matches in Perth.
Australian basketball is prospering with the NBL set to expand next year amid growing interest and 13 players in the NBA, led by No.1 draft picks Simmons and Andrew Bogut.
The Boomers are also scheduled to face the United States in two-high profile exhibition games at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium on August 22 and 24.
Coach Andrej Lemanis's 12-man squad for the games against Canada and the US will go on to represent Australia at the World Cup - which doubles up as the main qualifier for the Tokyo Olympics.
"I'm excited that the Boomers get to return to Perth, it's such a wonderful basketball community," Lemanis said.
"It's been a long time since we've been able to play warm-up games on home soil against quality opposition."
Canada's 11 NBA players are highlighted by 2014 top draft pick Andrew Wiggins and championship winner Tristan Thompson.
The world No.11 Boomers will face 23rd-ranked Canada, sixth-ranked Lithuania and Senegal in Group H of the World Cup, with the top two advancing to the last 16 in China.
The last meeting between Australia and Canada - minus NBA players - was in the gold medal match at last year's Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, won 87-47 by the hosts.
AUSTRALIA V CANADA
Friday 16 August 2019 - RAC Arena, Perth at 5.30pm
Saturday 17 August 2019 - RAC Arena, Perth at 5.30pm
