Supercats star named to extended Opals squad

ONE of Geelong United’s own has been named in the Australian Opals’ 19-player preliminary team, announced earlier today (Tuesday May 23) ahead of the 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup.

Supercats forward Chantel Horvat will join five other potential debutants named in the squad alongside 18-year-old Adelaide guard, Isobel Borlase, 2023 WNBA draftee Shaneice Swain, as well as Chloe Bibby, Amy Atwell and Nyadiew Puoch.

Horvat rejoined Geelong United earlier this month after a five-year term in College at UCLA and a season in Poland for Gorzow over the Australian summer, averaging 12.9 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in 28 appearances.

She has since established herself as a primary contributor to head coach Matt Paton’s NBL1 South side, averaging 18.2 points, 10.4 rebounds and two assists.

“For Chantel to be rated amongst the best-emerging basketball talent in Australia is a wonderful reward for her and a nice nod to our club as a pathway,” Paton said.

“It is fantastic to see a Geelong product being considered for senior National Team honours.”

“Chantel’s been a fantastic addition to our roster since returning from Poland, and her versatility is a great tool in the international game.”

The extended squad will be coached by decorated WNBL coach Shannon Seebohm and also features four members from the 2022 FIBA Women’s World Cup bronze medal-winning team: Tess Madgen, Darcee Garbin, Anneli Maley and Marianna Tolo.

The FIBA Women’s Asia Cup will be hosted in Australia for the first time between June 26 and July 2, with the best teams across the Asia region gathering in Sydney to compete at Quaycentre.

The Asia Cup also serves as a qualifier for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Horvat, if selected to the final squad, will play against Japan, the Philippines and Chinese Taipei in Group B in the first stage of the tournament.