Chinese WNBL superstar makes big decision on future

Sebastian Tan |

Giant Chinese star Han Xu has made the switch from Perth to Geelong in the WNBL.
Giant Chinese star Han Xu has made the switch from Perth to Geelong in the WNBL.

The Geelong Venom have delivered a statement to their WNBL rivals, signing Chinese towering superstar Han Xu for the coming season.

In one of the biggest off-season transfer announcements in the league’s history, 211cm centre Han will move from Perth to boost Geelong’s hopes of a first finals appearance.

The addition of last year’s defensive player of the year is another huge boost to Geelong, who also have dual WNBL champion Bec Cole and Opal Maddy Rocci and are led by new head coach Cheryl Chambers.

Han is currently playing with Australian Bec Allen for the New York Liberty in the WNBA, where they are in contention to make the playoffs.

Han Xu.
Han (r) in action for the Liberty against Toronto in the WNBA. (AP PHOTO)

Concern had arisen that Han wouldn’t feature in the WNBL next season after transforming the Lynx into a grand final team last campaign.

But those worries have now been brushed aside, and Chambers believes Han will take the Venom to the next level.

“She’s a WNBA veteran, a multiple-time WCBA MVP, and reigning WNBL defensive player of the year,” Chambers said in a club statement.

“Her shot-blocking and rebounding are genuinely elite.

“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’s move is also a significant coup for the league, after she helped spur the competition’s growth last season. 

“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,” Han 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.”

Han.
Han helped take the Perth Lynx to the WNBL final series against Townsville last season. (David Woodley/AAP PHOTOS)

Han won’t be the only Chinese player on the Venom’s books as they also announced the signing of 3×3 star Zhang Wanglai. 

Zhang starred at the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup in April, leading China to a bronze medal win over Japan.

“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.”

The double signing sets up a blockbuster opening clash between the Venom and new club the Tasmania Jewels when the competition tips off on October 15. 

AAP