MELBOURNE, April 7 (Xinhua) -- 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 breaks through during a friendly match between China and Australia in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, July 8, 2025. (Photo: Xinhua)

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.