Hong Kong kingpins South China face tough start in return to elite regional competition
Domestic champions to play three home matches in four days in the qualifying stages of the Basketball Champions League Asia in April
South China have long dominated basketball in Hong Kong – now they are finally going to get the chance to test themselves against some of the region’s best.
More than a year after winning a 17th domestic title, and over 40 since their previous foray into overseas competition, the club will take part in the qualifying stages of the Basketball Champions League Asia in April.
They will not be eased into things either, with three home matches in four days at Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai.
Starting guard Kelvin Tsang Cham-yuen called it a “rare opportunity” for the club and expected their six matches in the East zone against full-time professionals to be a “very special experience”.
“Our training hours are not comparable with those teams, and that is not something we could change in no time,” he said. “But I do have international experience with Hong Kong, so I am looking forward to it and I want to show the fans that a Hong Kong club team can also challenge those at a higher level.”
Opponents will include Mongolian club Ulaabaatar Xac Broncos on Monday, April 6, with back-to-back Group B matches against Taiwan sides New Taipei Kings and Taoyuan Pauian Pilots on Wednesday and Thursday.
