Hundreds of local basketball fans are already waiting in anticipation of watching Australian star Shane Heal return to the game as the leader of the newest NBL club, South Dragons, next month at Knox Converse Stadium.

Heal, who retired from national duty after the 2004 Sydney Olympics, is currently going through a rigorous training regime in the hope of leading his new club to a first-up win.

The Dragons’ roster includes a former NBA player, a number of young Australians, and of course Heal, who is set to be the team’s chief playmaker.

Such is the high level of interest in the game, Knox Basketball, the club hosting the August 23 clash between the Dragons and Cairns Taipans, is warning supporters to book tickets during the next fortnight or risk missing the game altogether.

Knox’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Justin Nelson, believes the atmosphere on the night will be something many of the Dragons players will remember for a long time.

“The stadium will be full, and with that will come an atmosphere that is sure to have all the players on edge. It promises to be a great night for basketball,” said Nelson.

Expecting a crowd similar to the one at the pre-Commonwealth Games clash between the Knox Ford Raiders and England’s national teams, the local club is expecting all tickets to be sold prior to the night.

“We are expecting up to 2500 spectators and have made it a ticketed event, so anyone without a ticket won’t be able to get in,” said Nelson.

“We’re still a month away from the game and already nearly half the seats available have been sold, so all I can say to all basketball supporters is to get in early to avoid missing out altogether.”

The clash will be the first ever game for the Dragons, which means plenty of other NBL coaches are expected to be dotted amongst the crowd jotting down notes on the competition’s new outfit.

“I have no doubt there will be a few familiar faces watching to see how the Dragons shape-up on court,” said Nelson, adding “The marketing push behind the Dragons has been huge and the interest level is enormous, all of which will ensure a memorable game.”

Tickets cost $10 (adults) and $5 (children under 14) and can be purchased during business hours at Knox Converse Stadium in Boronia, or call the office on 9762 1298 for further details.

Article appears courtesy of Knox Basketball