July 17, 2008

HOUSTON - Tara Watts and Kadie Riverin were selected to the Canadian Development Team that will play a three-game pre-Olympic International exhibition series against the Chinese National Team in Shanghai from July 18-22.

"It's exciting to be in China and to experience a different culture," Watts said. "Everyone so far has treated us extremely well. We even had a police escort to our practice session. Competing against the Chinese National team is a huge challenge, especially a month before they are set to play in the Olympics. They are a very strong team. All three games are going to be mentally and physically tough. I can't wait to see how we will compare to one of the best teams in the world."

The Owl pair took part in a two-week training camp with the Canadian Senior Women's Team at Georgian College in Ontario prior to arriving in China on Wednesday.

"We are extremely happy for Tara and Kadie to continue to play for their home country," head coach Greg Williams said. "They are both excited about representing their country and the great experience they will get in China."

Both Watts and Riverin have a plethora of international basketball experience to fall back on after playing for Canada's Under-21 National Team at the FIBA World Championships in Russia last summer. Watts saw extended action as a member of Canada's Under-19 National team in Slovakia, while Riverin also suited up for Canada at the Summer World University Games held in Thailand.

Watts tallied 6.5 points and 3.4 rebounds per game over seven games for the U-19 team, including a 16-point performance in a 75-64 win over China. Riverin shot a team-best 46.5 percent (20-of-42) from the floor, averaging 7.1 points per game for the U-21 squad. She also passed out a team-high 14 assists and was second on the squad with 10 steals.