Rocci heads to Women’s Basketball World Cup

Maddison Rochi in action.

Maddison Rocci has been named as part of the Opals squad that will represent Australia at an international competition next year.

Rocci, who grew up in Werribee and started her competitive career started with the Werribee Devils at age 11, has been announced as one of 24 players who will participate in the FIBA (International Basketball Federation, with “FIBA” originating from the French Fédération Internationale de Basketball name) Women’s Basketball World Cup.

The 2022 Cup, the 19th edition of FIBA’s international tournament for women’s national basketball teams, will be held in Sydney between September 22 and October 1.

Twelve teams from across the globe will take part in 38 games across the 10 days.

The Opals will suit up for international duties starting in Serbia on February 10, with the goal of a podium finish on home soil.

The Basketball Australia Board announced the Aussie squad on Monday.

Coach Sandy Brondello said she was looking forward to getting the team together before September.

“I am really excited about the talent we have in Australian Basketball and the squad that we as coaches have put together for 2022 is a great mix of experience and youth,” she said.

The 1994 FIBA Women’s World Championship was also held in Sydney.

“I remember like yesterday how special it was to play in a World Cup on home soil,” Brondello said.

“We look forward to having the same support as we had in 1994 to help us get back on the podium.

“Our goal over the next 300 days is to continue to grow, develop and be better as individuals and as group so we can achieve this goal.”