Monday, March 10, 2014

MN Lynx to Host Australian National Team in 2014 Preseason

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Lynx today announced the team’s preseason schedule for its 16th season of professional women’s basketball in Minnesota. To prepare for the 2014 WNBA season, the Lynx will play one exhibition game against the Australian Women’s National Basketball Team at Target Center on May 5 at 7 p.m.

“We’re very excited to be hosting one of the world’s top women’s basketball teams,” said Timberwolves and Lynx President Chris Wright. “With the Lynx at the top of their game, we’re looking forward to hosting a preseason game at Target Center in anticipation of an exciting 2014 Lynx season. It’s a great opportunity for our phenomenal fans to see our Lynx stars take on one of the best national teams in the world.”

Minnesota’s game against Australia, also known as the Opals, is its first game against the international squad. Ever since competing in their first international tournament at the 1957 FIBA World Championships in Brazil, the Opals have continued to increase the popularity of the sport in Australia.

 The Opals have won eight medals at official FIBA international tournaments (Olympics and World Championships).

Australia has won five Olympic medals (3 silver; 2 bronze) with the most recent being a Bronze Medal in the 2012 London Summer Games. The Opals faced the Americans in the semifinals during the London Olympics and were defeated 86-73, which put them into the Bronze Medal game where they defeated Russia 83-74 to clinch the Bronze. Australia has collected three World Championship medals, highlighted by a Gold Medal performance at the 2006 World Championship in Brazil. It also collected bronze medals at the 1998 and 2002 World Championships. For more information on the Australian National team visit, http://www.basketball.net.au/national-teams/opals/.

Tickets for the game are currently on sale for Lynx season members at their discounted member rate. Groups of 10 or more can also purchase seats starting at a discounted rate of $12 by calling the Lynx at 612-673-8400. Single-game tickets will be released for sale at a later date. For information regarding 2014 season memberships or ticket packages visit www.lynxbasketball.com or call 612.673.8400

The Lynx will kick off their 16th season in the WNBA on the road at Washington on Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. The 2014 home opener will be on Sunday, May 18 vs. Connecticut at 4 p.m., which will feature a historic ring ceremony and championship banner raising for the 2013 WNBA Champions. Full-season and half-season memberships are available by visiting www.lynxbasketball.com or by calling 612-673-8400.

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