Australia's consumer watchdog has launched a probe into the use of NBA superstars to promote pre-World Cup exhibition games by Team USA despite many of them pulling out, leaving fans fuming. 

The USA play Australia in Melbourne on August 22 and 24, and Canada in Sydney two days later, with Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox becoming the latest to pull out on Saturday. 

His departure, which was not explained by team officials, leaves the Americans one player over the 12-man limit as they prepare for the global showdown in China, where they hope to win a third consecutive crown. 

Some people paid hundreds of dollars to watch the NBA superstars, believing they would be seeing the likes of James Harden, Anthony Davis and Damian Lillard. 

But while the USA boast a host of top young talent guided by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, they lack top names used to sell the event after a series of player withdrawals. 

A change.org petition for refunds has so far attracted more than 2,500 supporters claiming they had been ripped off. 

"You have sold us an event that is no longer happening," said the petition. 

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said Sunday it was investigating. 
"Under the Australian Consumer Law, companies must not make false or misleading representations, including when advertising events," a spokesperson told AFP. 

"We understand that some advertising of the USA Basketball games occurring in Melbourne and Sydney included pictures of players who will not be attending those games. 

"The ACCC is considering the issues and engaging with relevant parties." 

"We understand that some advertising of the USA Basketball games occurring in Melbourne and Sydney included pictures of players who will not be attending those games. 

It urged ticket holders seeking a refund to contact the promoters, TEG Live, who were not immediately available for comment. 

"If they are unable to resolve their issue [...] report the issues to the ACCC," the spokesperson added.