The tournament will include more than 240 players from across Australia.

``It will give them a chance to polish their dreams,'' said tournament organiser and head coach at Star Basketball Recreation in Blacktown, Mayor Chagai.

``They get to interact with other tough players and learn from their skills.

``They have the height, strength and love for the game but they wouldn't have the opportunity to pursue this in Africa. The game means a lot to them and they have the facilities and privilege in Australia to exercise their abilities.''

Assistant coach Acuoth John said all the players were inspired by the success of Sudanese-born Australian Ater Majok, who is also his cousin.

Majok (pictured right in action) made a remarkable debut with the Australian Boomers last August when they won the Boris Stankovic Cup for the first time.

He has a scholarship to study and play at the University of Connecticut, paving the way to a professional career in the American NBA.

``Ater is a big-time inspiration to the players,'' John said.

``A lot of them are wishing to get to his level.

``He started out about five years ago and played in the championships.

``It gives them that mentality if he can do it, so can I.''

The players certainly have one thing in common with their 209 centimetre tall idol their incredible height.

``At least 100 of the players this weekend will be about 6 ft 5 in height,'' John said.

The Sudanese interest in basketball has grown rapidly over the past six years, with only four teams competing in the Championships when they began in 2003.

The teams who participate in the championships are self-funded.