Women’s National Basketball League Bounces into Darwin

Darwin will host its first Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) game between the Perth Lynx and Townsville Fire on Saturday 20 October 2007.

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Kon Vatskalis said the Northern Territory Government investment of $50,000 means Territorians will get to see both NBL and WNBL matches in Darwin.

“We already get the NBL and an annual game featuring the Perth Wildcats and for the first time we will see a WNBL game in the Territory,” Mr Vatskalis said.

“The basketball fraternity will also benefit from the teams participating in community activities to drive participation in the sport and promote an active and healthy lifestyle by being role models for young females.

Outside the Women’s NBA in America, the WNBL is regarded as the toughest and best women’s basketball league in the world.

The Australian Women’s team, the Opals, are the current World Champions. Three members of the 2007 Australian Defence Force Opals squad will play in the match, with Carly Wilson and Samantha Richards suiting up for the Lynx and Rohanee Cox running out for the Fire.

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Mr Scott Derwin said they were proud to supporting the event and were excited to take the game North.

“There are a lot of Basketball fans in the Territory and this is a fantastic way of showcasing our women’s league and the talent and determination of our athletes,” Mr Derwin said.

“We’re looking forward to a packed house with plenty of atmosphere.”

Basketball Northern Territory President Ms Shelley Lambert said the game was a huge bonus for the sport.

“The Northern Territory Government is a tremendous supporter of basketball and we are thrilled to have its support for this WNBL clash.”

Perth Lynx v Townsville Fire, Marrara Indoor Stadium, 7:00pm Saturday 20 October 2007. Tickets cost $10.00 for Adults and $5.00 for children. Tickets available from 1 October from the Basketball Northern Territory Office or phone 8945 3761.

Media Contact: Tiffany Stodart 0401 118 411

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vatskalis.220907.wnblbouncesintoDarwin.pdf ( 79.63 kb )