US-born Perry makes the cut

AFTER an encouraging debut for the national basketball team during a recent tour of New Zealand, US-born Perry Lim is excited to get a chance to perform in front of home fans at the Sea Games.

Perry, 19, made the cut for the 12-member national team who will be bidding to win a medal for the first time in 10 years when Malaysia open their campaign against Myanmar on Aug 20.

Although born in Illinois, Perry is no stranger to Malaysia having made numerous trips to his parents’ home state of Penang.

The son of former national team player Billy Lim, Perry’s potential was noticed early during one of several age-group competitions in Penang before being invited to try out for the national team.

“I started playing basketball when I was younger and I was noticed when I played in Penang,” said Perry after the unveiling of national team for the Sea Games at the Maba Stadium yesterday.

“Previous coaches asked if I wanted to come back and try for the national team and this summer I was given the opportunity to do that and finally I was selected, so really happy that I can contribute to the team.

“I mean this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and something nobody can take away from me, so really happy to have made the team and really hoping to do something at the Sea Games.”

In a squad with several experienced players including Chee Li Wei, Soo Eng Heng and Chan Kek Thai, forward Perry slotted into the team seamlessly during last month’s trip to New Zealand

“It was great,” said Perry. “I loved the new environment, it was a great experience for the whole team to really bond and come together

“I really think we have gelled together perfectly, hopefully it was good preparation for the Sea Games. I feel we are really prepared and have a good chance of getting gold.

“It will definitely be a challenge but I think we have prepared well and as a team and the coaching staff, I think we really stand a chance.”

Eagerly awaiting his debut on the home front, Perry appreciated the support of the home fans who were out in full force during yesterday’s unveiling along with members of the 1989 gold-medal winning squad, the last time Malaysia emerged men’s basketball champions.

“I love it here especially there being so many fans here today,” said Perry. “I really can’t thank them enough for coming out and supporting us.

“For the 1989 squad to come here is a true honour. They have done it before and hopefully we can continue that tradition and get the gold.” Devinder Singh