Geelong Venom land one of world’s tallest basketball stars

The Geelong Venom have signed the second-tallest player in the history of the American Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), with 211cm centre Han Xu joining the club for the 2026–27 season.

The 26-year-old arrives in Geelong after a standout season with the Perth Lynx, where she was named the Australian Women’s National Basketball League’s (WNBL) defensive player of the year after averaging 16.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocks a game to help the club reach the grand final series.

Han, who was drafted by WNBA club, New York Liberty, with the 14th overall pick in 2019, has also won three Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA) most valuable player awards, claimed two titles in China’s top women’s basketball league and helped China to a silver medal at the 2022 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.

Venom coach Cheryl Chambers said Han’s size, experience and defensive presence would provide an immediate boost.

She described Han as one of the most dominant post players in the world.

“She’s a WNBA veteran, a multiple-time WCBA MVP, and reigning WNBL defensive player of the year – her shot-blocking and rebounding are genuinely elite,” Chambers said.

“Adding that size and experience to our roster gives this team a real edge, and we can’t wait to see what she brings to the club this year.”

Han said she was looking forward to bringing her international experience to the Venom.

“I’ve played against Australian teams before, including a season with Perth, and I know how passionate this league’s fans are and how much the competition has grown,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to bringing everything I’ve built over my career – from China to the WNBA – into this team, and pushing for something special with my new teammates this year.”

The Venom have also strengthened their backcourt with the signing of international guard Wanglai Zhang.

Zhang brings experience across both the traditional and 3×3 formats, having won two titles in China’s top women’s basketball league and been named MVP of the Chinese 3×3 league before helping China to bronze at this year’s FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup.

Zhang said the move to Geelong would take her out of her comfort zone and provide an opportunity to embrace a new style of basketball.

“I’m really looking forward to soaking up the basketball vibe in Geelong – such a big sports town,” she said.

“No idea what’s ahead, but I’m going to keep loving the game and take it one step at a time. Can’t wait to get settled in, learn the system and go to battle with my new teammates.”

Han and Zhang become the latest additions to a revamped Venom roster as Geelong looks to build on its first two WNBL seasons under new coach Cheryl Chambers.

Geelong’s new-look roster will hit the court for the first time when the Venom open their 2026–27 season against league newcomers the Tasmania Jewels on 15 October.