After two weeks on tour with the Boomers, Joe Ingles returned to training with the Crazy John’s South Dragons this morning in preparation for the team’s first pre-season clash on Thursday night.

Ingles’ return to Melbourne sees the full line-up hit the practice court for the first time ahead of the 2007/08 season, just two days out from the Gold Coast showdown.

The Crazy John’s South Dragons will take on the all-new Blaze outfit at Knox Stadium on Thursday night, the first of eight practice games ahead of the official start to the NBL season on September 22.

The Blaze are due to hit town with ex-Razorback Scott McGregor, big man Ben Melmeth (Singapore), sharp-shooter James Harvey (West Sydney), imports Juaquin Hawkins (Hitachi Sunrockers - Japan) and Jason Crowe (Waikato Pistons – New Zealand) and a host of local names looking to challenge the national league.

But the Crazy John’s South Dragons have been hard at it on the practice court for weeks now, and will arrive at Knox Stadium intent on shoring up a win.

Tickets to the game are on sale now via the venue – phone (03) 9762 1298 to secure your seat!

Thursday’s clash at Knox Stadium kicks off a huge week for Crazy John’s South Dragons fans, with the team set to hit the streets this Friday as part of its 'Back to the 'Burbs' campaign.

All supporters are invited to catch the team in action at Kilsyth Stadium from 3:00pm-5:30pm for an afternoon of big basketball action - watch the team train, interact with the players and score some great giveaways ahead of season 2007/08.

The excitement continues on Sunday, August 19 when the Crazy John's South Dragons hit Vodafone Arena for the club's inaugural family open day.

The free event will be the first chance for all signed supporters to collect their official membership pass and a great opportunity for new fans to sign on to the club’s cause.

While you’re there, check out your seat for the season ahead or sign up on the day to select a seat on site.

Venue tours will run all afternoon with exclusive access to the Arena – check out the players’ locker rooms, see where coach Heal delivers his halftime address and get in on all the behind-the-scenes action at the Dragons’ lair.

The stars of the team will be put through their paces on court at 2:00pm, but it’s off the floor where the action is really set to heat up.

With free games, face painting and loads of prizes and giveaways all afternoon, there’s lots on offer for all the family. Get along to Vodafone Arena to meet with players and fellow fans and get ready for season two!

Better yet, the Crazy John’s South Dragons’ family open day will support the work of Whitelion, a not-for-profit organisation aimed to inspire and empower disconnected youth.

Founded in 1999, Whitelion works to provide positive relationships and life- changing opportunities for young people and to support their progress towards life goals.

And to round out a dream week for basketball fans, the Boomers are gearing up to take on the New Zealand Tall Blacks next Monday, August 20 at Vodafone Arena.

Fresh from their 18-day tour of Europe, the squad arrived home last night to prepare for the all-important three-game series that will determine the right to play in Beijing.

Get along to support your Boomers – phone Ticketek on 13 28 49 to secure your piece of the action today!