Opals crush Taiwan in series opener

The Australian women's basketball team steamrolled Taiwan 100-57 to take a one-nil lead in their three match series in Terrigal on the NSW Central Coast.

Olympian Natalie Porter led the way for the Opals, top-scoring with 20 points and Emma Randall (19 points, 7 rebounds) and Hollie Grima (18 points, 7 rebounds) were solid in support.

Adelaide's Erin Phillips was the pick of the Australian point guards with nine points, seven assists and six rebounds in 22 minutes on court.

"It was a very pleasing result," said Opals head coach Jan Stirling who went into the series without some of the biggest stars of her world champion squad who are playing overseas.

"We were able to get everyone out there and they all played well in patches, so there were certainly signs of improvement.

"We lacked a little bit of consistency and that's what we will work on in the next two games."

Feng-Chun Chiang top scored for Taiwan with 15 points.

The second match will also be played at Bridgecoast Stadium in Terrigal on Friday.