Boomers and Opals Set to Battle New Zealand in Triple Trans-Tasman Showdown Before Asia Cup

The Boomers and Opals are set to revive their fierce trans-Tasman rivalry against New Zealand with a series of three games in May.

This will mark the Boomers’ first on-court action since February, serving as an ideal preparation for both squads as they gear up for the Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia this August.

The matches will be held between May 7 and May 11 in Adelaide, on the Sunshine Coast, and in Hamilton, with the Opals and Boomers competing in consecutive games.

Fans can catch every match live and free on the 9Network and 9Now.

Simon Fordham, Nine Wide World of Sports Head of Partnerships and Strategy, commented: “The Boomers and Opals consistently deliver thrilling viewing for Australian sports enthusiasts, and we expect the Trans-Tasman Throwdown series against New Zealand to be no exception.

“As the host network for the Olympics leading up to Brisbane 2032, we are proud to further promote the Boomers and Opals, showcasing the top basketball talent from Australia and New Zealand live and free on the 9Network.”

Matt Scriven, Chief Executive Officer of Basketball Australia, stated: “We are thrilled to bring back the Trans-Tasman rivalry series, with every game available live and free on the 9Network for basketball fans across Australia. The interest in basketball is at an all-time high, and support for our national teams is immense. We are grateful for this partnership with Nine, enabling us to broadcast the Boomers and Opals nationwide this May.”

The Boomers finished a perfect 6-0 in their qualification pool for the Asia Cup, decisively defeating Thailand 114-63 in their final match in February to secure the top spot in Group A.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Tall Blacks achieved a 5-1 record in their qualification pool, finishing first in Group B.

Both teams have participated in the Asia Cup since 2017, with the Boomers claiming victory in both tournaments to date, while the Tall Blacks have secured fourth and third place finishes respectively.

The Aussies eliminated the Kiwis in the tournament semi-finals in 2017 and 2022.

The tournament draw is scheduled for April 8.

The Opals will also compete in the Women’s Asia Cup in July in Shenzhen, China.