Chinese basketball prospect Yang Shuyu joins Melbourne Tigers

The Melbourne Tigers of Australia's second-tier basketball league on Tuesday announced the signing of China's rising women's star Yang Shuyu for the 2026 season.

Yang Shuyu (R) of China goes for a lay-up during a friendly match between China and Australia in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, July 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Xue Yuge)

The Tigers said on Tuesday that the signing of Yang, 24, marks one of the most exciting international additions in the club's recent history.

Head coach Kaleb Sclater said in a statement that Yang, a bronze medalist for China in 3x3 basketball at the Tokyo Olympic Games, would make a significant impact on and off the court for the team.

"She brings elite talent, international experience, and a fierce competitive edge, we're excited to welcome her," he said.

The Melbourne Tigers play in the South Conference of the semi-professional National Basketball League 1 (NBL1) competition.

The women's team won 12 out of 22 regular season games in 2025, but did not qualify for the playoffs and is winless through two games in 2026.