The Melbourne Tigers Basketball Club has joined a new era of sport by becoming part of the world first alliance of TEAMelbourne.

Tigers co-captain Chris Anstey was part of the official launch at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre alongside Billy Slater from Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club, David Neitz from Melbourne Football Club, Craig Newitt from Melbourne Racing Club and Sharelle McMahon from Netball Victoria.

TEAMelbourne will help strengthen the Tigers' public awareness, business opportunities, memberships and partnerships by representing the club on a larger scale among the sporting industry and Victorian community.

“I've been a believer in TEAMelbourne since day one, I think it's an innovative concept and it's great to see it finally coming to fruition,” Seamus McPeake, Melbourne Tigers Director said.

“TEAMelbourne will be a viable organisation and will go a long way, we are thrilled to be one of the five founding member clubs.”

Also attending the official launch were Head Coach Al Westover, the Tigers Board of Directors, and the National Basketball League's Commissioner, Rick Burton.

“The teaming up of Melbourne 's iconic sporting clubs is a bold and visionary move,” Mr Burton said.

“The combining of their brand strengths will allow all the participant teams the chance to grow significantly and the NBL applauds the formation of TEAMelbourne.”

“This can only benefit all of sport in Melbourne and may well be a sign of things to come for the future of the Australian sportscape.”

Seamus McPeake added that the “Tigers values of family, loyalty and community will be complemented and enhanced by TEAMelbourne's vision so the alliance is an important step forward for the future of our club.”

“The opportunities with TEAMelbourne are fantastic for the Tigers long-term goals to strengthen our position and be a successful business.”

TEAMelbourne will provide the Tigers larger scale opportunities to give back to the community.

“The Tigers have a rich tradition in the community which our players and staff exemplify in their ongoing tireless support of community organisations and events,” Seamus McPeake said.

“By working collaboratively with the other member clubs it will give us a greater opportunity to reach the community through opportunities like the Mega Sports Clinics each year.”

TEAMelbourne memberships will be released in the coming months which will provide entry to selected founding member club games and events.

The Melbourne Tigers will hit the court firing when the 2007/08 season starts with their first home game against the Wollongong Hawks on the Saturday 22 nd September.

With new recruit David Barlow and a new import this season, the Tigers will be stronger than ever in their adrenalin-charged 2007/08 season as they fight to take back the championship title.

For more information on TEAMelbourne log on to www.teamelbourne.com.au