With just a few days before Whyalla hosts its biggest ever basketball match - an official NBL pre-season match between the new look Adelaide 36ers and the reigning NBL Champions the Melbourne Tigers.

Whyalla sports fans still have a rare opportunity to meet all the players of both teams at a Sportsman's night which is being held at West Whyalla Football Club.

The Sportsman's night on Thursday, August 21, will allow a rare insight into the lives of these elite sportsmen and will feature 18 year NBL veteran and current 36ers captain Brett Maher as guest speaker.

Maher will speak of his Olympic and his NBL experience which has included three Championships.

He will 'interview' some of his team mates and some of the Tigers players to highlight some of the interesting characters from not only the NBL but also from world basketball.

Wildcats Basketball Club said the sportsman's night was suggested by the 36ers as an opportunity to meet the Whyalla community, a community well know for it's sporting passion and it will be a great night for the whole family.

There will be an auction after the dinner, offering sporting memorabilia such as framed Power and Crows jumpers, a framed pair of Melbourne Tigers shorts, the Adelaide 36ers singlet worn by last season superstar Julius Hodge, and possibly an Adelaide United shirt.

All the uniforms are signed by the current team members.

The most novel items a hot pink AFL Breast cancer awareness football signed by Crows coach Neil Craig and captain Simon Goodwin.

Tickets are available from West Whyalla Football Club, Wildcats Basketball Club or McLeod's Motor company for just $20 and include a two course meal.