INTERNATIONAL basketball is coming to south Essex this weekend as Southend Swifts look to make waves overseas.

The under-18s tournament will feature some of the top sides from the UK and will also see successful Dutch side Haren travel to the county to compete.

Serial English Senior Champions Sheffield Hatters are the other side who will take to the court at Seevic College in Benfleet.

Swifts will tip off the tournament against Haren on Saturday at noon and are will face a tough test against the Holland outfit, who have been regional champions for the past three seasons.

“We are always delighted to welcome Sheffield Hatters to visit us,” said Swifts chairman Paul May. “They had an outstanding year with all three of their girls teams making the final fours, so they always bring excellent competition.

“The inclusion of Haren from Holland is especially interesting. They contacted us, initially because of the success we have had, because their nearest town is Groningen, which has a direct flight into Southend Airport, so they will have a quicker journey to get to us than Sheffield.

“I hope this will be the start of many reciprocal visits between our clubs.”

Swifts’ match against Haren will be followed by Swifts against Sheffield.

On Sunday, Sheffield play Haren at 11am and that is followed by a second clash between Haren and Swifts.

Spectators are welcome to attend the matches.