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Tag: Sam Froling

  • Move to ‘unlock’ Giddey’s ‘full potential’; big question to decide Simmons’ future: Aussies in the NBA

    Move to ‘unlock’ Giddey’s ‘full potential’; big question to decide Simmons’ future: Aussies in the NBA

    The NBA offseason is in full swing now and there have been a number of Australians in the headlines, with Josh Giddey traded to Chicago early in the piece while Josh Green was the latest countryman to land on a new team.

    With all of that in mind, foxsports.com.au has you covered with all the latest news on every Australian in the NBA and what is in store for those who will be wearing new colours.

    JOSH GIDDEY (Chicago Bulls)

    Starting with the biggest name of the lot because for the last three years, Giddey had been one of the faces of the Oklahoma City rebuild.

    But, as has been well-established by this point, he was forced into a role that didn’t play into his strengths as the talented Thunder roster rose to new heights in the 2023-24 season.

    That is all old news though. So, what is new for Giddey in Chicago?

    Well, for starters he won’t be coming off the bench given what the 21-year-old said at his introductory press conference for the Bulls.

    Giddey opens up on trade to Bulls | 01:12

    “I just said to him at this point in my career, I’m 21 years old, it wasn’t something that I was overly eager to do,” Giddey said of his chat with Thunder GM Sam Presti.

    You would suspect Giddey wouldn’t be eager to do that at the Bulls either, especially when you consider he would have been a lot closer to contending for a title at Oklahoma City.

    At this stage it looks like Giddey will be starting in the backcourt alongside Coby White, who is a nice fit alongside the Australian after shooting 38 per cent from deep on seven attempts per game last season.

    Ayo Dosunmu, Chicago’s young guard who emerged down the stretch, looks more likely to settle into a bench rotation role.

    Elsewhere, DeMar DeRozan’s departure for Sacramento will only further open up more opportunities for this to be Giddey’s team.

    That is true to a degree, of course, given the Bulls won’t want to just give Giddey the keys entirely considering how much White showed in a prominent role last season.

    But it will still be a much better set-up for Giddey in terms of getting his hands on the ball more while the Bulls won’t be expected to compete for a playoff berth either, meaning there should be less pressure and hence more chances for Giddey to make — and learn from — mistakes.

    Gaze: Bulls a ‘better fit’ for Giddey | 00:59

    “It was going to be hard to tap into my full potential, in my opinion, on a team like [Oklahoma City] with so many talented guys who needed the ball in their hands, who were great with the ball in their hands,” Giddey said.

    “A change of scenery was going to maybe unlock more of that for me. Being able to make the game easy for everybody, being able to get guys involved, distribute the ball and get other players confident around me is the thing I pride myself on doing.

    “And it’s hard to do that in a role when the ball isn’t in your hands a lot. … That’s probably the big thing coming in here. I want to be the pass-first point guard I am.”

    Bulls fans will get a look at the pass-first point guard in Giddey at this year’s Olympics after the 21-year-old thrived in a similar role at the FIBA World Cup.

    The big question for the Bulls as a whole is what happens with Zach LaVine, who is due to make $43 million next season, $46 million in 2025-26 and has a $49 million player option for 2026-27.

    At this stage, the Bulls are still looking to offload him but may find it hard to get the kind of return they are after given LaVine’s contract and the fact they have so little leverage in negotiations.

    JOSH GREEN (Charlotte Hornets)

    As will be consistent with all the younger Australian players moved this offseason, this trade takes Green further away from competing for a title but will ultimately help his development.

    At Dallas, Green was restricted to a rotation role where he was more of a 3-and-D guy than anything else, complementing Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

    There were times that Green excelled in that role, most notably in Game 5 of the NBA Finals when he made four 3-pointers on his way to 14 points off the bench in a loss to the Celtics.

    But for the most part Green’s form would fluctuate depending on how he was shooting the ball.

    Josh Green was traded to Charlotte. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    What didn’t falter though was the energy and hustle Green offered on both ends of the floor and he will be an important player in setting the tone and culture for a Charlotte team that is still in the early stages of forming its own identity.

    Green has an opportunity to start at the two for the Hornets but either way he will see more minutes than he did at the Mavericks and have more freedom, like Giddey, to make mistakes and learn from them.

    At Dallas, if Green made too many missteps he risked having his minutes squeezed in the rotation for a team that has title aspirations.

    It is easy to forget Green is still only 23 years old and he has previously shown his potential when operating as the primary ballhandler in games without Doncic or Irving.

    He may not have as many wins on the board in Charlotte but don’t be surprised if Green emerges as a breakout player of sorts with the added responsibility.

    DYSON DANIELS (Atlanta Hawks)

    Likewise, Daniels is another player who will benefit from getting a fresh start in the upcoming season.

    New Orleans traded Daniels as part of a move that saw the Pelicans land Dejounte Murray and it is expected to be just the start of more major changes at Atlanta, who may be heading towards a rebuild of sorts.

    With that in mind, Daniels also has a legitimate chance to see playing time — at least more than he was getting at New Orleans, another Western Conference contender on the rise.

    In fact, there is every chance he could share the backcourt with Trae Young, should he stay at the Hawks, given the Australian’s elite defence would be the perfect match alongside him.

    Dyson Daniels will have more opportunities with the Hawks. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Daniels’ point of attack defence in particular will keep him on the court, while any growth on the offensive side of the ball will determine just how high his ceiling is.

    The young guard out of Bendigo looked hesitant and lacked confidence at times when playing for the Pelicans, whether it was with his shot or driving to the rim.

    If Daniels can overcome that mental battle and develop his perimeter shooting, he could end up being a key piece of Atlanta’s future but at least his defence gives him a solid floor and an asset the Hawks desperately need right now as constructed.

    JOE INGLES (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    It wasn’t supposed to be like this for Ingles, who told reporters after Australia’s second warm-up game against China that he hoped he would be a one-team player in his NBA career.

    “The crazy thing is I only wanted to play for one. I really just wanted to play for one,” Ingles said, per ESPN.

    Instead Ingles played eight seasons at Utah until he tore his ACL and was traded to Portland, where he remained sidelined by injury and didn’t see a single minute on the court before becoming a free agent.

    The veteran wing then secured a one-year contract with the Bucks, only to then agree to another short-term deal with the Magic the following season and now Minnesota is the next stop for the Boomers legend.

    Although Ingles revealed he could have easily already been on the Timberwolves this time last year.

    “They actually tried to get me last year as well,” Ingles said.

    Ingles landed at Orlando instead, where he was the oldest player in a young roster that exceeded expectations and will likely continue to rise up the Eastern Conference standings.

    Ingles signs one-year deal with Wolves | 00:39

    But unlike Giddey, Green and Daniels, Ingles is heading to a team that is a genuine title contender next year.

    The Timberwolves knocked off defending champions Denver in this past season’s playoffs before going down to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference semi-finals.

    In Minnesota, Ingles will reunite with former Jazz teammates Mike Conley and Rudy Gobert.

    He will also team up with one of the league’s most rapidly ascending superstars — and best trash talkers — in Anthony Edwards.

    “He’s good,” Ingles said of Edwards’ trash talk.

    “I’ll save it for someone else. (But) it’s exciting. It’s obviously a really good team. Western Conference finals this year. Just going in there fully understanding the role they have for me. Trying to help Rudy, trying to help Ant, trying to help all these guys get better and hopefully go further.”

    Ingles described it as a “basketball opportunity that was too good to give up”.

    Realistically, the 36-year-old will slot into a similar bench role to Kyle Anderson, who signed a three-year contract with Golden State.

    He can still shoot the ball and is a valuable veteran locker room presence while his familiarity with Conley and Gobert is obviously also a plus.

    JOHNNY FURPHY (Indiana Pacers)

    From an Australian veteran to the country’s newest NBA export.

    Furphy was projected as a mid-to-late first round pick but was instead made to wait until the early stages of the second round for his name to be called.

    The Indiana Pacers traded up to land the Victorian, who Pacers coach Rick Carlisle told ‘The Wake Up Call’ on 107.5 The Fan was actually the 14th-ranked prospect on their big board.

    “He is a guy that our scouts had as the No. 14 player in the entire draft, and we got him at 35, so we feel pretty fortunate there,” Carlisle said.

    At19 years old, Furphy offers plenty of upside with his combination of shooting, athleticism and length at 6-foot-9.

    Johnny Furphy during his time at the Kansas Jayhawks. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    But Furphy is very much a developmental player who still needs to add plenty of weight to his frame to be able to handle the physicality of the NBA.

    That is something both Furphy and Chad Buchanan are aware of though, with the Indiana general manager telling reporters the team believes the former Kansas wing has “a lot of room to grow”.

    “Both his body physically and his game,” Buchanan said.

    “He’s obviously very young in age, but we liked a lot of things about him that felt like aligned with who we are as an organisation and how we play.”

    Specifically, Indiana likes to push the pace and that is a stylistic fit for Furphy, who had highlight finishes in transition during his time at Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence.

    The way Furphy moves, or more accurately, glides down the court also makes him an ideal piece for the high-tempo offence Indiana runs.

    “I think the Pacers run a super exciting play style. Their team dynamic is something I can envision myself fitting in really well,” Furphy said in his introductory press conference.

    “Just how fast they play. How different players impact the game. I can kind of envision myself doing that.”

    Pacers nab exciting Aussie with pick 35 | 01:48

    Furphy, who said slipping out of the first round of the draft is “definitely a motivation” for him moving forward, will likely struggle to find playing time early in his Pacers career and Buchanan hinted at as much.

    “The reality is our roster is in a situation where it’s going to be tough for a young guy to come in and play,” the Pacers GM said.

    “We have a lot of good young players already on the roster. We have a lot of established roles already. We feel like we’re willing to be a little bit more patient with a young player like Johnny.”

    But that is honestly for the best since Furphy was viewed as more of a high-upside project player heading into the draft, so the Pacers are taking the right approach with him.

    One of the key focuses for Furphy will be developing his game off the ball as it is his best chance of seeing playing time on an Indiana team that is not short of playmaking options.

    “That’s something I’ve had to do my whole life,” Furphy said.

    “Playing with a lot of different teams, learning how to play without the ball in my hands. That’s something I feel like I do really well.

    “Being able to impact the game without the ball. Playing in transition, rebounding, cutting. That’s something I can see myself doing.”

    BEN SIMMONS (Brooklyn Nets)

    It all comes down to this for Simmons. A contract year and potentially the season that will decide if he still has a career in the NBA.

    After multiple injury setbacks and false starts, could this finally be the season when Simmons puts it all together and shows glimpses of the talent that made him a three-time All-Star?

    If it is another disappointing season for Simmons, the Nets will likely just count down the days until his $40.3 million contract expires because it is hard to see any team being incentivised enough to take on his salary without a sudden turnaround in form.

    Of course, on the flip side, the best case scenario for the Nets is that Simmons does start to show signs of improvement — or at least enough to increase his trade value.

    Ben Simmons is on an expiring contract. Sarah Stier/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP

    The worst case scenario is that Simmons is playing poorly, stays on the roster and walks in free agency next summer.

    But at least they’d be rid of his salary at that point as the Nets play towards the future.

    If anything, trading Mikal Bridges should theoretically give Brooklyn the chance to feature Simmons more in the offence, if that is still a feasible plan at this stage of his career.

    Should Simmons return to health and remind everyone of his potential when running the offence, maybe a team could come to the negotiating table?

    PATTY MILLS (Miami Heat)

    Mills is a free agent and while he would obviously welcome the chance to return to Miami, the ball is in the Heat’s court.

    Although the fact Milwaukee added Delon Wright in free agency would only increase the veteran guard’s chances of scoring another contract.

    If Mills is offered the chance to re-sign with Miami it would be on a one-year, veteran-minimum deal where he would be a depth piece more than anything.

    DANTE EXUM (Dallas Mavericks)

    With Green out of the picture, it leaves Exum with even more responsibility should Doncic or Irving go down injured as the team’s next best option at point guard.

    Otherwise, Exum will remain locked into a key rotation role for the Mavericks given his energy on both ends along with his playmaking and distributing chops.

    Outside of Exum, 22-year-old guard Jaden Hardy also stands to benefit from Green’s move while the Mavericks also traded for Quentin Grimes, who will help fill the void left by the Sydney native.

    JOCK LANDALE (Houston Rockets)

    It looks at this stage like Landale’s $8 million salary with the Rockets for next season has been fully guaranteed, although it is hard to see the Australian having a prominent role given he is now behind Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams.

    Regardless, Landale’s salary could be used in a future trade alongside Houston’s growing draft capital should the Rockets decide to make a big, all-in move.

    For now, Landale will be a frontcourt depth piece and may see some minutes in the rotation after proving himself down the stretch for Houston as he finished the season strong.

    Landale averaged 8.8 points and 4.1 rebounds in his final two months for the Rockets after an injury to Sengun saw him take on greater responsibility in the Houston frontcourt.

    MATISSE THYBULLE and DUOP REATH (Portland Trail Blazers)

    Not much is expected to change for Thybulle and Reath, who will likely both settle into rotation roles off the bench for a Trail Blazers team that is still in the early stages of a rebuild.

    The only real notable addition Portland made this offseason via free agency or trade was Deni Avdija while Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons are staying put for the time being despite speculation they could be on the move.

    Elsewhere, the Trail Blazers added Donovan Clingan in the draft, which specifically will make it harder for Reath to see significant minutes in a crowded big man rotation which includes Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III.

    JAYLIN GALLOWAY (Milwaukee Bucks)

    Galloway is currently signed on a two-way contract for next season and will feature for Milwaukee’s G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.

    In the meantime, Galloway will be in action for the Bucks at the NBA Summer League again, where he will play alongside NBL Next Star AJ Johnson, who Milwaukee drafted in the first round this year.

    AUSTRALIANS AT THE NBA SUMMER LEAGUE

    The NBA’s Summer League is also already underway as rookies, second-year players and some NBL-rostered Australian talent will be looking to make an impression.

    Melbourne United’s Jack White impressed enough at the Summer League back in 2022 to earn a contract with the eventual NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets.

    Here are a few names to look out for at this year’s edition:

    – Luke Travers (Cleveland Cavaliers)

    – Josh Bannan (Los Angeles Clippers)

    – Tyler Robertson (Washington Wizards)

    – Jo Lual-Acuil Jr (Sacramento Kings)

    – Sam Froling (Indiana Pacers)

    – Alex Ducas (Oklahoma City Thunder)

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  • Five players cut as Basketball Australia announces revised Boomers Paris 2024 squad

    Five players cut as Basketball Australia announces revised Boomers Paris 2024 squad

    The Boomers have announced a revised 17-man squad for the upcoming Paris Olympics, cutting five players ahead of next month’s training camp.

    Coach Brian Goorjian had initially named a mix of experience and youth in an extended 21-man squad which featured future NBA hopefuls Rocco Zikarsky and Johnny Furphy.

    Both Zikarsky and Furphy were among the five names cut on Thursday, joining Will McDowell-White, Keanu Pinder and Sam Froling as the unfortunate few to miss out.

    OKC Thunder evens up series vs Mavericks | 01:13

    “The standard of the tournament is going to be at an all-time high and we’re excited with the group that we’ve put together,” said Goorjian.

    “It’s a special group and an exciting time for basketball and the country. We will get the guys together and get the energy right.

    “The level of talent that the country is producing is at a new level. We’ve got guys competing against the best in leagues around the world and the NBL continues to advance as a world class level for Australian talent.

    “We won’t over-complicate things here. We’ve got an exciting group of players that all present unique strengths and advantages. Our goal is to maximise that.”

    The revised squad will report to camp in late June before a hit-out series against China in Melbourne from the 2nd to the 5th of July.

    Those games will help coach Goorjian then further reduce the squad, with a final 12 to be selected to travel to Abu Dhabi for games against the USA on July 15 and Serbia the following day.

    REVISED BOOMERS PARIS 2024 SQUAD

    Xavier Cooks, Jock Landale , Dyson Daniels , Will Magnay, Matthew Dellavedova, Jack McVeigh, Dante Exum, Patty Mills, Josh Giddey, Duop Reath, Chris Goulding, Matisse Thybulle, Josh Green, DJ Vasiljevic, Joe Ingles, Jack White, Nick Kay

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  • Goorjian names 22-man Boomers squad for Paris… including 19yo rising star and ‘upcoming Bogut’

    Goorjian names 22-man Boomers squad for Paris… including 19yo rising star and ‘upcoming Bogut’

    Basketball Australia on Thursday morning announced a 22-man Boomers squad for the 2024 Paris Olympics, with a mix of established veterans and fresh faces selected by Brian Goorjian.

    The squad builds on what was a transitional tournament for the Boomers at the FIBA World Cup last year, where Josh Giddey formed a new-look backcourt alongside Patty Mills.

    There are a few bolters in Johnny Furphy and Rocco Zikarsky who, while unlikely to make the final team itself, will only benefit from the experience of being part of the Boomers set-up early.

    Furphy has rocketed up NBA draft boards and is currently No. 28 on ESPN’s big board after a strong college season with the Kansas City Jayhawks, which included one stretch where the 19-year-old scored double figures in 11 of 12 games.

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    Johnny Furphy has risen up draft boards. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Zikarsky, meanwhile, stands at 7-foot-3 as the tallest player in the NBL after joining the Brisbane Bullets at 17 years old as the league’s youngest Next Star.

    The Australian big man will be eligible for the NBA draft in 2025 and led Australia to victory at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament earlier in the week, crowned MVP after averaging 18.7 points, 11 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game while shooting at 73.1 per cent from the field.

    Speaking to ESPN, Goorjian floated the possibility that either Furphy or Zikarsky, while players of the future, could also gain selection for the Paris team.

    “I just think it’s really important that he’s brought into the Boomers program and culture,” Goorjian said of Furphy.

    “The worst case is he gets to see the Boomers and be around this group, but, also, we need a shooter. He does that.”

    As for Zikarsky, Goorjian compared him to an “upcoming [Andrew] Bogut”.

    “He’s probably a year earlier than Bogut was when he went to Athens… There’s nothing like him,” the Boomers coach said.

    “He’s 7’4, and he’s co-ordinated. I talk about some of our gaps after the World Cup, with the shooting and adding McVeigh [to the squad]… rim protection [too], a presence around the rim, we didn’t have it. Rocco is that.

    Australia’s Rocco Zikarsky (R) shoots against Indonesia’s Lester Prosper during a FIBA Basketball Asia Cup qualifier match. (Photo by YASUYOSHI CHIBA / AFP)Source: AFP

    “Touching those guys is one thing, but both of them, in their position, have a skill.

    “When you pick your nine, with this group; those last three, you never know what it is. Is it a rim protector? Is it defence? Is it a chemistry guy? Is it, we have everything covered so let’s give a young guy a piece of this so they’re ready for the next one?”

    There are plenty of familiar names in the 22-man squad, with 10 members of the Tokyo bronze medal team included while all players from last year’s FIBA World Cup selection camp outside of Thon Maker are back in the mix.

    Elsewhere, JackJumpers duo Jack McVeigh and Will Magnay have been rewarded for their fine form in Tasmania’s triumphant NBL season with selection while Adelaide’s Dejan Vasiljevic is the other new face.

    As expected, Ben Simmons is not available for selection after his 2023-24 NBA season with Brooklyn was cut short by a nerve impingement in his back.

    Ben Simmons is not available for selection. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Goorjian said the Boomers coaching staff were able to draw on the team’s disappointment from an early exit at last year’s FIBA World Cup to better identify specific areas Australia needs to improve ahead of Paris.

    “The FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2023 marked a new beginning for the Boomers,” Goorjian said in a statement on Thursday morning.

    “We were able to introduce some new faces and identify areas that we needed to advance and improve.

    “We’ve been actively monitoring the Aussie players across international leagues in USA, Europe and Asia as well as domestically in the NBL and we’re confident in the potential chemistry of this list.

    “The complexity of international tournaments like the Olympics is that you have a relatively short window to train and prepare – so you have to identify and implement a style that works fast and amplifies the collective skill set.

    “There’s always a correlation made of our offensive play with European styles, which is interesting considering there isn’t a whole lot of exposure to the Euro system with our players.

    “What we have experienced is the emergence of Australians at the top level overseas and the evolution of the NBL as a world class league with high powered scoring offences, so we want to drive a game that is familiar but unique to our group.”

    ‘Drunk uncle’ Ingles taunts & rips Bulls | 01:12

    Goorjian also pointed to the added versatility in this year’s Olympics squad, which is better equipped to handle any further injuries in the frontcourt after losing Jock Landale in the lead-up to last year’s World Cup.

    It is not just the squad’s versatility either, with Duop Reath also benefiting from a significant role with the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA.

    “When Jock Landale went down we had to adjust to small ball. It was challenging but ultimately rewarding as we got to trial different packages and get prime minutes into Duop Reath which fast-tracked his development,” said Goorjian.

    “Looking to the Olympics, we will have Jock Landale available for selection and the added versatility of Kay, Xavier Cooks as well as guys like Will Magnay and Rocco Zikarsky.

    “We’ve also introduced more depth across shooters in the squad with veteran Chris Goulding joined by Dyson Daniels, Jack McVeigh and DJ Vasilijevic.”

    Australia faces a tough road to another medal at the Olympics, drawn into Group A alongside Canada and two other teams which will be determined through qualifying tournaments.

    At this stage, Spain and one of Slovenia, Greece and Croatia loom as the most likely countries to be joining Australia in its group.

    ‘Dante Ex-HIM’: Clutch Aussie saves Mavs | 01:11

    “We’re really excited at this opportunity. The consensus is that the tournament will be at an unseen level with the talent and international NBA star-power across the teams,” added Goorjian.

    “I will emphasise and instil with the group that we’re not aiming to match or replicate the style of game heading our way from other nations. Our goal is to beat them.

    “We’re going to play Aussie ball. And we’re going to go at them with all we’ve got.”

    Goorjian told ESPN that ‘Aussie ball’ will centre around “playing at tempo, at pace, downhill”, which plays well into the strengths of the likes of Josh Giddey, Dante Exum and Josh Green both as scorers and playmakers.

    The initial squad will be trimmed down further before training camp in Melbourne in July, with Goorjian to then narrow it down again to a final 12.

    Boomers Paris 2024 Olympic Squad

    Chris Goulding, Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Dante Exum, Johnny Furphy, Patty Mills, DJ Vasilijevic, Sam Froling, Rocco Zikarsky, Duop Reath, Josh Giddey, Will Magnay, Dyson Daniels, Josh Green, Will McDowell-White, Jack McVeigh, Keanu Pinder, Xavier Cooks, Jack White, Matisse Thybulle, Jock Landale, Matthew Dellavedova

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  • ‘Unbelievable’ Delly’s inspiring act, coach’s emotional message as NBL Championship Series locked in

    ‘Unbelievable’ Delly’s inspiring act, coach’s emotional message as NBL Championship Series locked in

    The 2024 NBL Championship Series is set, with the Tasmania JackJumpers once again featuring as they look to win their first-ever title against Melbourne United.

    Read on for a full wrap of how both teams got there, with Tasmania making a statement against Perth while United held off a plucky Illawarra outfit.

    Watch every game of the NBL Finals LIVE with ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >

    JackJumpers stun Wildcats in semi-final | 01:23

    EMOTIONS HIGH FOR ROTH AS JACKJUMPERS CONTINUE CHARGE

    The Tasmania JackJumpers will contest their second NBL championship series despite only having been in the competition for three seasons.

    The JackJumpers became the only team across both semi-final series to win on the road, when they beat the Wildcats 100-84 at RAC Arena on Wednesday night.

    Perth looked lively in the first half, but could only manage a three-point lead, which came midway through the second quarter.

    Then Scott Roth’s boys took control.

    Led by a season-high 27 points from Jack McVeigh, the JackJumpers outscored Perth 48-41 after half-time and were always in control.

    “The island defended. Love those people back in Tasmania, this team loves you, we’re coming back home,” an emotional Roth told John Casey post-game.

    “… It’s all about defending the island and taking care of this state.”

    Nothing to lose

    So, Tasmania will play Melbourne United in a five-game series, after United won Game 3 of their semi-final series against Illawarra Hawks earlier on Wednesday.

    Game 1 is on Sunday at John Cain Arena.

    In the past 10 years, eight championships have been won by teams entering the playoffs from one of top-two positions on the table.

    The Sydney Kings (2021-22) and the Perth Wildcats (2016-17) both won titles from third spot in that time, where the JackJumpers were ranked after qualifying.

    Tassie will start underdog, but that won’t bother them.

    Some Milton magic

    It was Milton Doyle who broke the game open in the second term, dropping 11 points for the quarter to give the visitors a nine-point lead at half-time.

    Bryce Cotton had just started the term on fire, with the first five points, as the Cats went on a nine-point run either side of the quarter-time break.

    The four-times MVP scored 10 points in the second term.

    But when Doyle dropped the first two points of the second half, the JackJumpers lead went to 11 points. It didn’t get back below nine.

    Doyle finished with 24 points and nine assists.

    Milton Doyle wins possession for the ball against Keanu Pinder. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Talls just too big

    Import Marcus Lee returning to the JackJumpers was just one too many tall for the Wildcats to handle.

    Lee missed his side’s home victory in Game 2, suspended for unduly rough play on Jordan Usher, deemed to be intentional, medium impact and high contact.

    The rebound count was 40-31 Tasmania’s way. The JackJumpers pulled in 13 offensive boards.

    They were able to add 58 points from inside the paint as a result.

    Will Magnay continued his terrific late-season form, with nine boards and 18 points.

    Keanu Pinder had his hands full. Having scored 25 points in Game 1 of the semi-final, his frustrations from Game 2 continued to Wednesday. He didn’t score at all.

    Perth scoring woes

    Remember when the Wildcats went on a seven-game run mid-season, scoring triple figure totals in every game?

    They reached 100 in 10 of 14 games.

    But over their finals campaign, scoring hasn’t been that easy.

    Cotton again led the way on Wednesday night, scoring 21 points. The four-times NBL MVP dropped all three attempts from three-point territory.

    But after him, it was slim pickings. Hyrum Harris contributed 13 points, but no one else made it to double figures.

    Magnay goes huge as Jackjumpers win | 02:00

    ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ DELLY HELPS UNITED TO VICTORY

    The pressure on Melbourne United to close out a semi final series it was heavily favoured in was immense.

    A basketball nation jumped on board the Illawarra Hawks bandwagon and were waiting to point and laugh at a top-ranked United if they were to slip up.

    But United showed its championship credentials, standing up when it counted most in a do-or-die game and declaring the Hawks fairytale would end in their house.

    Dean Vickerman’s team advanced to their first NBL championship series since 2020-21 with another tight 100-94 win in game 3 at John Cain Arena on Wednesday night.

    United exorcised the demons of 2021-22 when a fourth-ranked Tasmania JackJumpers shocked top-seeded United to take game three of their semi final series.

    It was all hands on deck for United with all five starters, led by 22 points from point guard Shea Ili, and sixth man Ian Clark scoring in double digits.

    Matthew Dellavedova made some big plays. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    United’s offence was sharp early and a little less predictable than their go-to-Jo Lual-Acuil Jr start in game 2.

    The Hawks were caught on the hop as United opened up what would prove to be an unassailable 21-6 lead.

    Hawks coach Justin Tatum was not liking what he saw and called a time out just three minutes in.

    It lit a fire in Hawks forward Wani Swaka Lo Buluk who unceremoniously barged through hometown favourite Chris Goulding.

    Three triples from Hawks guard Justin Robinson trimmed a 15-point deficit to just six at quarter time.

    United came out with a stronger defensive focus in the second.

    Veteran Matthew Dellavedova typified that when he dove head first over the advertising boards in a bid to try and save a ball.

    The Hawks stuck around with Robinson, who had 19 points and seven assists, a key reason, the sixth man playing his best game of the series.

    Robinson was the one Hawk that was able to penetrate with regularity.

    Hawks centre Sam Froling was ever-present inside the paint with 23 points.

    When Robinson connected on an alley-oop with Froling, United’s lead was cut to three, but two late Shea Ili’s threes had United up 54-47 at half time.

    United opened the third quarter on a 9-0 run to have their biggest lead of the night at 16.

    Smooth-as-silk United forward Luke Travers, who finished with a double double 15 points and 11 rebounds, was getting to the hoop at will and providing efficient scoring.

    A four-point play to Hyunjung Lee late in the third boosted the Hawks spirits.

    The Hawks were not going to simply roll over, but they just couldn’t bridge a gap that hovered around 10, particularly with their slipshod 63% free throw shooting (24/38).

    Target on his back

    If United was going to get beaten, they didn’t want to get beaten by Gary Clark.

    Clark, the game 2 star for the Hawks, was met with a double team nearly every time he took possession in the first half.

    The former NBA player was bereft of ideas for most of the night and finished with just 14 points, a significant win for United.

    Ty-ed down

    Hawks guard Tyler Harvey endured a hellish night.

    The 30-year-old had a killer mentality in game 2, but it eluded him on this occasion.

    When the star scorer went to the bench in the third quarter with four fouls, he only had a single point to his name and finished with just nine.

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  • Melbourne miracle as No.1 seeds storm back from 16-pt Q4 deficit to claim NBL finals epic

    Melbourne miracle as No.1 seeds storm back from 16-pt Q4 deficit to claim NBL finals epic

    With his team seconds away from a famous victory, little-used Illawarra Hawks point guard Kyle Adnam inexplicably threw the ball away from the inbounds pass with 18 seconds left in regulation, and Melbourne United gleefully accepted the donation, scoring through Chris Goulding to take the game to overtime.

    Staring a 16-point deficit in the face early in the fourth quarter, United pulled off a miraculous come-from-behind win to take game one of the best-of-three semi final series 115-106 in overtime at a rocking John Cain Arena on Thursday night.

    Chants of “Melbourne” rained down as the pro-United crowd showed their appreciation for the never-say-die attitude of their team.

    Watch every game of the NBL Finals LIVE with ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >

    United can clinch their first trip to the NBL grand final since 2020-21 with a win in game two in Illawarra on Sunday.

    Veteran guard Matthew Dellavedova was the architect for United.

    The 33-year-old produced his game of the season with 30 points, seven rebounds, 10 assists and four steals.

    His impact was so significant, the crowd was chanting “MVP” when Dellavedoca went to the free throw line late in the game.

    Talented young forward Luke Travers was instrumental with 24 points, eight rebounds, three blocks and two and Goulding bobbed up at crucial times with 18 points, including four threes.

    The Hawks have gone close the past two times against United, but the minor premiers have their measure.

    That is five straight wins for United over the Hawks and Justin Tatum’s men must be wondering what they have to do to break through for a victory.

    The quality of play in the first half was straight from the top shelf.

    Hawks centre Sam Froling’s finesse on the inside saw the visitors settle the better.

    Froling, who had a team-high 26 points, was aggressive with 17 first half points and caused headaches for United starting centre Jo Lual-Acuil Jr.

    United’s slow start was remedied by Travers, who started to take over.

    Locked in Luke

    Travers was clearly locked in, as you would expect from a player who opted to sit out national representation to focus on United’s playoffs.

    Hawks import forward Gary Clark went up a notch for the playoffs with 22 points and 12 rebounds, but he will be frustrated by his five turnovers.

    Goulding, who had knocked down a three-pointer in 57 consecutive games, hit three first half triples.

    With the Hawks leading by four midway through the second, Dellavedova took a stand, stealing the ball off a driving Clark and transitioning for a three.

    It was the catalyst to United taking the lead for the first time in the game.

    Sam the man

    But the Froling show rolled on.

    The league’s Next Generation Award recipient was nigh on unstoppable.

    His stand out play helped the Hawks go on a 6-0 run and take a 57-56 lead at half time.

    The Hawks came out of half time with all guns blazing, going on a 7-0 run, as United struggled to match the Hawks up tempo style,

    Up 16 early in the fourth, the Hawks looked set to cause an upset, but United came roaring back to steal victory in overtime.

    Public enemy

    Justin Robinson had a target on his back all game.

    Robinson was charged with an unsportsmanlike foul when he bowled over United fan favourite Shea Ili in a play straight from an AFL playbook and it drew the ire of the home fans.

    The United fans made their displeasure known, booing the American in unison.

    NBL SCOREBOARD

    Melbourne United 115 (Dellavedova 30 Travers 24 Goulding 18) d Illawarra Hawks 106 (Froling 26 Clark 22 Harvey 15)

    At John Cain Arena, Melbourne

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  • NBL superstar enters Australian hoops GOAT conversation with another MVP crown

    NBL superstar enters Australian hoops GOAT conversation with another MVP crown

    Bryce Cotton has entered the NBL GOAT conversation, winning a fourth league MVP award – trailing only the legendary Andrew Gaze, who the award is named for.

    The 31-year-old Perth star led the Wildcats to a second-place finish behind Melbourne United, and won the award from their star Chris Goulding plus New Zealand import Parker Jackson-Cartwright.

    After a difficult start to the year Cotton lifted enormously, producing 26.6 points per game as part of a 15-game streak where the Wildcats won 13 times.

    Watch every game of the NBL season LIVE with ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start Your Free Trial Today >

    While Goulding missed the top honour Melbourne was still dominant on the awards night, with coach Dean Vickerman named the NBL’s best for a third time, Shea Ili the Defensive Player of the Year and Ian Clark the Best Sixth Man.

    Potential No.1 pick Alex Sarr missed the Next Gen award for the best player under 25, with Illawarra’s Sam Froling beating him and Luke Travers.

    Hawks cement NBL playoff spot | 01:14

    Andrew Gaze MVP: Bryce Cotton (Perth Wildcats)

    Lindsay Gaze Coach of the Year: Dean Vickerman (Melbourne United)

    Most Improved Player: Sean Macdonald (Tasmania JackJumpers)

    Best Sixth Man: Ian Clark (Melbourne United)

    Damian Martin of the Defensive Player of the Year: Shea Ili (Melbourne United)

    Next Generation: Sam Froling (Illawarra)

    NBL First Team: Anthony Lamb (New Zealand Breakers), Bryce Cotton (Perth Wildcats),

    Chris Goulding (Melbourne United), Gary Clark (Illawarra Hawks), Parker Jackson-Cartwright (New Zealand Breakers)

    NBL Second Team: Jack McVeigh (Tasmania JackJumpers), Jo Lual Acuil Jr (Melbourne United), Milton Doyle (Tasmania JackJumpers), Mitch Creek (South East Melbourne Phoenix), Nathan Sobey (Brisbane Bullets)

    Referee of the Year: Vaughan Mayberry

    Gametime by Kmart: Sunday Dech (Adelaide 36ers)

    Executive of the Year: Nick Truelson (Melbourne United)

    Fans MVP: Bryce Cotton (Perth Wildcats)

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  • Boomers Ultimate Guide: Warm-up game recaps, full World Cup schedule and team news

    Boomers Ultimate Guide: Warm-up game recaps, full World Cup schedule and team news

    The FIBA World Cup is almost here, with Australia’s Boomers set to begin their campaign on Friday against Finland in their opening group stage clash.

    It is an exciting time for Australian basketball, with Josh Green telling SEN Radio earlier in the year that the Boomers are ready to take the next step towards becoming a “powerhouse”.

    The Boomers enter the tournament with a 4-1 record in warm-up exhibition matches, but have battled a raft of injuries that rocked coach Brian Goorjian’s squad.

    The strong warm-up schedule was set to offer Goorjian the opportunity to settle on who would be the final player to miss out on a spot in the 12-man squad, before that decision was taken out of his hands.

    FIBA Basketball World Cup | Starts Aug 25. Watch every Boomers, Team USA and Finals game FREE & LIVE on ESPN with Kayo Freebies. Join Kayo now and start streaming instantly >

    Boomers beaten by Brazil in warm up game | 01:26

    Starting big man Jock Landale suffered an ankle injury in the third warm-up game, against South Sudan, that ruled the new Houston Rockets recruit out of the entire World Cup.

    Landale had already been sidelined for the first two warm-up games with a right ankle issue before landing awkwardly on his left foot while defending the rim.

    Coach Goorjian revealed to reporters after the win over South Sudan that Jack White was set to miss out on selection before Landale’s injury.

    Now though, having already experimented with small line-ups last week, Goorjian will have to embrace that playing style out of necessity.

    Fortunately this Boomers squad has the kind of positional versatility needed to make it work.

    For Goorjian, Landale’s injury was justification for delaying a call on the final cut to the squad, telling media White will be a “very helpful piece” at the World Cup.

    “That is a big hit but I’m taking the high road on this,” Goorjian said.

    “I got criticised quite strongly about having 13 guys and not making that selection … Jack White has been right on the cusp of this thing and is huge for us and is a quality piece there and I’m not comfortable with some of these guys that have not played at all.

    “Thank goodness he’s here. He’s played in all of this and we went down the road we went and he’s a very helpful piece. He’s multipurpose and if we’re going to play that small-ball switch, he’s another really important piece.”

    Keep scrolling for a recap of all Boomers warm-up games and a full World Cup schedule!

    Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian. Photo by Emily Barker/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Australia won two of its three warm-up games in Melbourne, going down 90-86 against a bigger Brazilian team in a glimpse of some of the challenges to come in the World Cup.

    Josh Green though did not take part in that game though, eventually getting a start on Thursday against South Sudan after nursing an elbow injury earlier in the week.

    Goorjian got exactly what he was after from the Dallas Mavericks wing, bringing his trademark hustle and energy to both ends of the floor — something that was missing against Brazil.

    Goorjian described Green as like “Delly on steroids”, referring of course to veteran guard Matthew Dellavedova, who was one of the first names cut from the initial World Cup squad.

    “Josh Green and then Matisse, Jack White — there’s an avenue there to go down and we’re going to have to be really good at certain things to get to where we want to go without Jock,” added Goorjian.

    “But it’s doable and I saw flashes of it tonight.”

    He did however suffer another injury against France in Tokyo – this time to his ankle – and was forced to miss the final warm-up win over Georgia, but is believed to be ready to play when the World Cup begins.

    While Landale’s omission is a big blow, it presents an opportunity for Duop Reath to build on an impressive run in Australia’s warm-up games.

    Reath has formed a lethal combination playing off Josh Giddey and will be leaned on heavily to provide some much-needed size and offensive versatility in the frontcourt.

    Xavier Cooks and Nick Kay will also offer options for Goorjian at the five, although how he rotates minutes remains to be seen.

    While Chris Goulding (knee) also sat out Thursday’s game against South Sudan, the Melbourne United star returned against Georgia and is ready to go when the tournament begins.

    Read on for a full ultimate guide of everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 FIBA World Cup!

    EVERY WARM-UP GAME RECAP

    The Boomers have had five warm-up games before then to finetune things.

    Australia won its first warm-up game 97-41 against Venezuela at Rod Laver Arena last Monday night.

    Last Wednesday’s exhibition game against Brazil, which the Boomers lost in an upset, was pushed forward to a 5.30pm tip-off so Australian basketball fans were able to tune into the game before switching over to watch the Matildas, who went down 3-1 in the FIFA World Cup semi-final against England.

    The final warm-up game in Melbourne tipped off at 7.45pm (AEST) on Thursday night, with the Boomers toppling South Sudan 86-67 but copping a big injury setback in the process.

    Then the Boomers overcame medal fancies France on Sunday 78-74, before finalising their preparations with a 86-81 win over Georgia in Okinawa, Japan. The game was held behind closed doors and not televised, but there was good news for the Boomers with Chris Goulding returning from a knee injury suffered against Venezuela to drain 13 points. Australia led by 19 at the half before implementing a heavy rotation strategy to get every player into form before the tournament began.

    Dallas Maverick Josh Green sat out after an ankle injury in Sunday’s win over France, but is believed to be fit to play against Finland.

    FULL SCHEDULE (Times AEST)

    Australia def. Venezuela 97-41 — Game recap

    Australia def. by Brazil 86-90 — Game recap

    Australia def. South Sudan 88-67 — Game recap

    Australia def. France 78-74 — Game recap

    Australia def. Georgia 86-81

    HOW TO WATCH EVERY BOOMERS FIBA WORLD CUP GAME

    As for the World Cup action itself, the Boomers are part of Group E and will play Finland in their first official game to kick off the tournament.

    That game is scheduled for 6pm AEST on Friday, August 25. Australia is also scheduled to face Germany (6.30pm, August 27) and Japan (9.10pm, August 29) to round out the group stage.

    You can watch EVERY Boomers game live with ESPN on Kayo.

    FULL SCHEDULE (AEST)

    Australia vs Finland (Friday, August 25 @ 6pm)

    Australia vs Germany (Sunday, August 27 @ 6.30pm)

    Australia vs Japan (Tuesday, August 29 @ 9.10pm)

    BOOMERS’ OFFICIAL 12-MAN SQUAD

    Xavier Cooks, Dyson Daniels, Dante Exum, Josh Giddey, Chris Goulding, Josh Green, Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Patty Mills, Duop Reath, Matisse Thybulle, Jack White

    PLAYERS CUT

    Jock Landale (injured), Matthew Dellavedova, Will McDowell-White, Thon Maker, Keanu Pinder, Sam Froling

    FIBA WORLD CUP GROUPS

    Group A: Angola, Dominican Republic, Philippines, Italy

    Group B: South Sudan, Serbia, China, Puerto Rico

    Group C: USA, Jordan, Greece, New Zealand

    Group D: Egypt, Mexico, Montenegro, Lithuania

    Group E: Germany, Finland, Australia, Japan

    Group F: Slovenia, Cape Verde, Georgia, Venezuela

    Group G: Iran, Spain, Cote d’Ivoire, Brazil

    Group H: Canada, Latvia, Lebanon, France

    FIBA WORLD CUP WINNER ODDS (via TAB.com.au)

    USA — $2.10

    Canada — $6.00

    Australia — $9.00

    Slovenia — $11.00

    France — $12.00

    NBA PLAYERS IN FIBA WORLD CUP (via NBA.com)

    Ben Simmons may not be suiting up for the Boomers but this is already a stacked roster at Brian Goorjian’s disposal, with nine NBA players in Australia’s 12-man squad.

    Australia is not the only nation that will be bolstered by NBA talent at this year’s FIBA World Cup, with the United States obviously the most well-represented of the bunch.

    Austin Reaves and Mikal Bridges, two of the NBA’s most exciting breakout players last season, are part of a 12-man squad that features stars from teams all across the league.

    Meanwhile, NBA championship-winning guard Jamal Murray and Giddey’s Oklahoma City teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lead a Canada team that will pose a serious challenge.

    Luka Doncic, meanwhile, provided plenty of starpower for Slovenia although Greece is without one of its biggest draw cards after Giannis Antetokounmpo pulled out.

    Antetokounmpo underwent knee surgery at the start of July and has not participated in Greece’s preparations for the tournament.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo will miss the World Cup. (Photo by Oliver Behrendt / AFP)Source: AFP

    “Since the conclusion of my NBA season I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set,” Antetokounmpo wrote on social media last week.

    “After months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup.

    “This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career.

    “I am extremely disappointed in this outcome.”

    GROUP A

    Angola: Roster not announced.

    Dominican Republic: Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves), Lester Quinones (Golden State Warriors)

    Italy: Simone Fontecchio (Utah Jazz)

    Philippines: Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz)

    GROUP B

    China: Kyle Anderson (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Serbia: Bogdan Bogdanovic (Atlanta Hawks), Aleksej Pokusevski (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jovic (Miami Heat), Filip Petrusev (Philadelphia 76ers)

    South Sudan: Roster not announced.

    Puerto Rico: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP C

    Greece: Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

    Jordan: Roster not announced.

    New Zealand: No NBA players on roster.

    United States: Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic), Mikal Bridges (Brooklyn Nets), Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers), Josh Hart (New York Knicks), Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans), Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies), Cameron Johnson (Brooklyn Nets), Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz), Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks), Austin Reaves (Los Angeles Lakers)

    GROUP D

    Egypt: No NBA players on roster.

    Lithuania: Jonas Valanciunas (New Orleans Pelicans), Azuolas Tubelis (Philadelphia 76ers)

    Mexico: No NBA players on roster.

    Montenegro: Nikola Vucevic (Chicago Bulls)

    GROUP E

    Australia: Xavier Cooks (Washington Wizards), Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans), Dante Exum (Dallas Mavericks), Josh Giddey (Oklahoma City Thunder), Josh Green (Dallas Mavericks), Joe Ingles (Orlando Magic), Patty Mills (Atlanta Hawks), Matisse Thybulle (Portland Trail Blazers), Jack White (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Finland: Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz)

    Germany: Dennis Schroder (Toronto Raptors), Daniel Theis (Indiana Pacers), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Moritz Wagner (Orlando Magic)

    Japan: Yuta Watanabe (Phoenix Suns)

    GROUP F

    Cape Verde: No NBA players on roster.

    Georgia: Goga Bitadze (Orlando Magic), Sandro Mamukelashvili (San Antonio Spurs)

    Slovenia: Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks)

    Venezuela: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP G

    Brazil: Raul Neto (Cleveland Cavaliers)

    Cote d’Ivoire: No NBA players on roster.

    Iran: No NBA players on roster.

    Spain: Santi Aldama (Memphis Grizzlies), Usman Garuba (Atlanta Hawks)

    GROUP H

    Canada: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), RJ Barrett (New York Knicks), Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets), Lu Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Minnesota Timberwolves), Kelly Olynyk (Utah Jazz), Dwight Powell (Dallas Mavericks)

    France: Frank Ntilikina (Free agent), Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers), Evan Fournier (New York Knicks), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Latvia: Kristaps Porzingis (Boston Celtics), Davis Bertans (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Lebanon: No NBA players on roster.

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  • Boomers Ultimate Guide: Brian Goorjian’s strong call pays off after Australia cops ‘big’ injury hit

    Boomers Ultimate Guide: Brian Goorjian’s strong call pays off after Australia cops ‘big’ injury hit

    The FIBA World Cup is almost here, with Josh Green telling SEN Radio earlier in the year that the Boomers are ready to take the next step towards becoming a basketball “powerhouse”.

    But first, Australia played three warm-up games in Melbourne and have another two before the World Cup itself opens.

    The warm-up games give coach Brian Goorjian one final chance to figure out what his starting line-up could look like.

    It was also going to offer Goorjian another opportunity to settle on who would be the final player to miss out on a spot in the 12-man squad, although that decision was taken out of his hands.

    FIBA Basketball World Cup | Starts Aug 25. Watch every Boomers, Team USA and Finals game FREE & LIVE on ESPN with Kayo Freebies. Join Kayo now and start streaming instantly >

    Boomers beaten by Brazil in warm up game | 01:26

    Starting big man Jock Landale suffered an ankle injury that will sideline the new Houston Rockets recruit for the entire World Cup.

    Landale had already been sidelined for the first two warm-up games with a right ankle issue before landing awkwardly on his left foot while defending the rim.

    Coach Goorjian revealed to reporters after the win over South Sudan that Jack White was set to miss out on selection before Landale’s injury.

    Now though, having already experimented with small lineups all week, Goorjian will have to embrace that playing style out of necessity.

    Fortunately this Boomers squad has the kind of positional versatility needed to make it work.

    For Goorjian, Landale’s injury was justification for delaying a call on the final cut to the squad, telling media White will be a “very helpful piece” at the World Cup.

    “That is a big hit but I’m taking the high road on this,” Goorjian said.

    “I got criticised quite strongly about having 13 guys and not making that selection… Jack White has been right on the cusp of this thing and is huge for us and is a quality piece there and I’m not comfortable with some of these guys that have not played at all.

    “Thank goodness he’s here. He’s played in all of this and we went down the road we went and he’s a very helpful piece. He’s multi-purpose and if we’re going to play that small-ball switch, he’s another really important piece.”

    Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian. Photo by Emily Barker/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Australia won two of its three warm-up games in Melbourne, going down 90-86 against a bigger Brazilian team in a glimpse of some of the challenges to come in the World Cup.

    Josh Green though did not take part in that game though, eventually getting a start on Thursday against South Sudan after nursing an elbow injury earlier in the week.

    Goorjian got exactly what he was after from the Dallas Mavericks wing, bringing his trademark hustle and energy to both ends of the floor — something that was missing against Brazil.

    Goorjian described Green as like “Delly on steroids”, referring of course to veteran guard Matthew Dellavedova, who was one of the first names cut from the initial World Cup squad.

    “Josh Green and then Matisse, Jack White — there’s an avenue there to go down and we’re going to have to be really good at certain things to get to where we want to go without Jock,” added Goorjian.

    “But it’s doable and I saw flashes of it tonight.”

    While Landale’s omission is a big blow, it presents an opportunity for Duop Reath to build on an impressive run in Australia’s warm-up games.

    Reath has formed a lethal combination playing off Josh Giddey and will be leaned on heavily to provide some much-needed size and offensive versatility in the frontcourt.

    Xavier Cooks and Nick Kay will also offer options for Goorjian at the five, although how he rotates minutes remains to be seen.

    While Chris Goulding (knee) also sat out Thursday’s game against South Sudan, Goorjian said that was just precautionary and that the Melbourne United star should be right to go.

    Read on for a full ultimate guide of everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 FIBA World Cup!

    BOOMERS VS THE WORLD

    While the World Cup itself gets underway later this month, the Boomers will have five warm-up games before then to finetune things.

    Australia won its first warm-up game 97-41 against Venezuela at Rod Laver Arena on Monday night (7.45pm AEST).

    Wednesday’s exhibition game against Brazil, which the Boomers lost in an upset, was scheduled for the same time but later pushed forward to a 5.30pm tip-off.

    It means Australian basketball fans were able to tune into the game before switching over to watch the Matildas, who went down 3-1 in the FIFA World Cup semi-final against England.

    The final warm-up game in Melbourne tipped off at 7.45pm (AEST) on Thursday night, with the Boomers toppling South Sudan but copping a big injury setback in the process.

    There will be two other opportunities for the Boomers to get reps in before the World Cup itself, with friendly games against France and Georgia in Japan on August 20 and 22.

    FULL SCHEDULE (Times AEST)

    Australia def. Venezuela 97-41 — Game recap

    Australia def. by Brazil 86-90 — Game recap

    Australia def. South Sudan 88-67 — Game recap

    Australia vs France (Sunday, August 20 @ 2pm)

    Australia vs Georgia (Tuesday, August 22 @ TBD)

    HOW TO WATCH EVERY BOOMERS FIBA WORLD CUP GAME

    As for the World Cup action itself, the Boomers are part of Group E and will play Finland in their first official game to kick off the tournament.

    That game is scheduled for 6pm AEST on Friday, August 25. Australia is also scheduled to face Germany (6.30pm, August 27) and Japan (9.10pm, August 29) to round out the group stage.

    You can watch EVERY Boomers game live with ESPN on Kayo.

    FULL SCHEDULE

    Australia vs Finland (Friday, August 25 @ 6pm)

    Australia vs Germany (Sunday, August 27 @ 6.30pm)

    Australia vs Japan (Tuesday, August 29 @ 9.10pm)

    BOOMERS’ 12-MAN SQUAD

    Xavier Cooks, Dyson Daniels, Dante Exum, Josh Giddey, Chris Goulding, Josh Green, Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Patty Mills, Duop Reath, Matisse Thybulle, Jack White

    PLAYERS ALREADY CUT

    Jock Landale (injured), Matthew Dellavedova, Will McDowell-White, Thon Maker, Keanu Pinder, Sam Froling

    FIBA WORLD CUP GROUPS

    Group A: Angola, Dominican Republic, Philippines, Italy

    Group B: South Sudan, Serbia, China, Puerto Rico

    Group C: USA, Jordan, Greece, New Zealand

    Group D: Egypt, Mexico, Montenegro, Lithuania

    Group E: Germany, Finland, Australia, Japan

    Group F: Slovenia, Cape Verde, Georgia, Venezuela

    Group G: Iran, Spain, Cote d’Ivoire, Brazil

    Group H: Canada, Latvia, Lebanon, France

    FIBA WORLD CUP WINNER ODDS (via TAB.com.au)

    USA — $2.10

    Canada — $6.00

    Australia — $9.00

    Slovenia — $11.00

    France — $12.00

    NBA PLAYERS IN FIBA WORLD CUP (via NBA.com)

    Ben Simmons may not be suiting up for the Boomers but this is already a stacked roster at Brian Goorjian’s disposal, with 10 NBA players in Australia’s 12-man squad.

    Australia is not the only nation that will be bolstered by NBA talent at this year’s FIBA World Cup, with the United States obviously the most well-represented of the bunch.

    Austin Reaves and Mikal Bridges, two of the NBA’s most exciting breakout players last season, are part of a 12-man squad that features stars from teams all across the league.

    Meanwhile, NBA championship-winning guard Jamal Murray and Giddey’s Oklahoma City teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lead a Canada team that will pose a serious challenge.

    Luka Doncic, meanwhile, provided plenty of starpower for Slovenia although Greece is without one of its biggest draw cards after Giannis Antetokounmpo pulled out.

    Antetokounmpo underwent knee surgery at the start of July and has not participated in Greece’s preparations for the tournament.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo will miss the World Cup. (Photo by Oliver Behrendt / AFP)Source: AFP

    “Since the conclusion of my NBA season I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set,” Antetokounmpo wrote on social media last week.

    “After months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup.

    “This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career.

    “I am extremely disappointed in this outcome.”

    GROUP A

    Angola: Roster not announced.

    Dominican Republic: Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves), Lester Quinones (Golden State Warriors)

    Italy: Simone Fontecchio (Utah Jazz)

    Philippines: Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz)

    GROUP B

    China: Kyle Anderson (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Serbia: Bogdan Bogdanovic (Atlanta Hawks), Aleksej Pokusevski (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jovic (Miami Heat), Filip Petrusev (Philadelphia 76ers)

    South Sudan: Roster not announced.

    Puerto Rico: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP C

    Greece: Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

    Jordan: Roster not announced.

    New Zealand: No NBA players on roster.

    United States: Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic), Mikal Bridges (Brooklyn Nets), Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers), Josh Hart (New York Knicks), Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans), Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies), Cameron Johnson (Brooklyn Nets), Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz), Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks), Austin Reaves (Los Angeles Lakers)

    GROUP D

    Egypt: No NBA players on roster.

    Lithuania: Jonas Valanciunas (New Orleans Pelicans), Azuolas Tubelis (Philadelphia 76ers)

    Mexico: No NBA players on roster.

    Montenegro: Nikola Vucevic (Chicago Bulls)

    GROUP E

    Australia: Xavier Cooks (Washington Wizards), Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans), Dante Exum (Dallas Mavericks), Josh Giddey (Oklahoma City Thunder), Josh Green (Dallas Mavericks), Joe Ingles (Orlando Magic), Patty Mills (Atlanta Hawks), Matisse Thybulle (Portland Trail Blazers), Jack White (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Finland: Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz)

    Germany: Dennis Schroder (Toronto Raptors), Daniel Theis (Indiana Pacers), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Moritz Wagner (Orlando Magic)

    Japan: Yuta Watanabe (Phoenix Suns)

    GROUP F

    Cape Verde: No NBA players on roster.

    Georgia: Goga Bitadze (Orlando Magic), Sandro Mamukelashvili (San Antonio Spurs)

    Slovenia: Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks)

    Venezuela: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP G

    Brazil: Raul Neto (Cleveland Cavaliers)

    Cote d’Ivoire: No NBA players on roster.

    Iran: No NBA players on roster.

    Spain: Santi Aldama (Memphis Grizzlies), Usman Garuba (Atlanta Hawks)

    GROUP H

    Canada: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), RJ Barrett (New York Knicks), Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets), Lu Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Minnesota Timberwolves), Kelly Olynyk (Utah Jazz), Dwight Powell (Dallas Mavericks)

    France: Frank Ntilikina (Free agent), Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers), Evan Fournier (New York Knicks), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Latvia: Kristaps Porzingis (Boston Celtics), Davis Bertans (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Lebanon: No NBA players on roster.

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  • Boomers Ultimate Guide: Big Giddey call and selection ‘no-brainer’ as brutal cut nears for FIBA World Cup

    Boomers Ultimate Guide: Big Giddey call and selection ‘no-brainer’ as brutal cut nears for FIBA World Cup

    The FIBA World Cup is almost here, with Josh Green telling SEN Radio earlier in the year that the Boomers are ready to take the next step towards becoming a basketball “powerhouse”.

    But first, the Boomers have five warm-up games before the World Cup itself opens and while Australia’s squad has already been trimmed down to 13 players, one brutal cut still remains.

    The warm-up games give coach Brian Goorjian one final chance to figure out what his starting line-up could look like as well as who is the unlucky final person to miss out.

    With that in mind, foxsports.com.au runs through burning questions ahead of the tournament along with everything you need to know before the opening warm-up game against Venezuela.

    FIBA Basketball World Cup | Starts Aug 25. Watch every Boomers, Team USA and Finals game FREE & LIVE on ESPN with Kayo Freebies. Join Kayo now and start streaming instantly >

    Boomers seeking more medals ahead of WC | 01:18

    WHO IS THE FINAL CUT?

    The biggest question everyone wants answered.

    At this point, Jack White and Xavier Cooks appear to be the two names being consistently tossed up as the two most likely candidates to be cut from the squad.

    Although there may be a late twist, with News Corp reporting young guard Dyson Daniels and versatile wing Josh Green could also be at risk of dropping out.

    Leaving Green out though would be quite a surprise given his versatility and while his defence has always been a strong point, the 22-year-old could also make some serious noise on the offensive side of the ball at this year’s World Cup.

    Green flashed his shooting potential at stages last season for the Mavericks, playing with confidence and aggression in games without Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

    He has proven himself capable of stepping up to fill a scoring void when needed and so it is tough to see him missing out.

    It is hard to see Josh Green missing out. Picture: Brendan RadkeSource: News Corp Australia

    As for Daniels, again his versatility and standout skills on the defensive end make him a valuable asset even if his offensive game is still a work in progress.

    Of course, this Boomers team is stacked at the guard position and Daniels is still just 20 years old so Goorjian may choose to prioritise filling a more glaring team need elsewhere.

    But the 20-year-old’s size and length offer the Boomers defensive versatility while his improvement as a playmaker somewhat make up for the inefficient shooting.

    Speaking of glaring team needs, a lack of size means Goorjian could opt towards bringing both White and Daniels to the World Cup and sacrificing some depth at guard.

    “We’re going to put out the smallest team we have in a long time,” Australian basketball great Chris Anstey said on SEN Radio.

    “No real genuine five — Landale can do that really, really well but he’s probably naturally a four man.

    “So we’re going to come up against the much bigger bodies we’re going to need to come up the floor defensively, and our points of difference has to be full court basketball on both ends of the floor.”

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    Jack White could miss out. Photo by Emily Barker/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    Otherwise, it seems to be a simple case of weighing up White’s shooting against the playmaking of Cooks.

    Shooting is the biggest reason why Chris Goulding is firmly in the frame for selection, coming off a strong NBL season where he averaged 17.1 points and shot 37 per cent from deep.

    Former Perth Wildcats Trevor Gleeson described Goulding as a “weapon” on ESPN’s ‘Ball and the Real World’ podcast, backing him in as an automatic pick for the team.

    “It’s a no-brainer for me to have Chris in the team as that specialised shooter and being a microwave off the bench,” Gleeson said.

    “He’s got no question on what his role is. It is to come in and give that scoring punch.”

    That is consistent with comments from Goorjian himself to ESPN, who said the Boomers “need guys like Goulding who can shoot the ball”.

    Importantly, Goorjian also went to point out how Oklahoma City has surrounded Josh Giddey with catch-and-shoot scorers — proof he has already given Goulding’s spot in the offence as a whole serious thought.

    “That’s one thing you saw with OKC, they put around him guys that can catch and shoot, because he’ll find them,” Goorjian told ESPN.

    “I see that as exciting. you’re adding a piece now… that is completely different.”

    Whoever ends up being the final player to miss out, there is little doubt this could be one of the most talented Boomers line-ups we have seen in recent memory.

    “The talent we have in Australian basketball is as good as it’s ever been with a mix of the older guys that have been around for 10 to 15 years and then younger guys coming through,” Josh Giddey said earlier in the month.

    “It’s a great combination of both.”

    Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian has one more tough call to make. Photo by Emily Barker/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

    WHAT COULD THE STARTING FIVE LOOK LIKE?

    Let’s start with the more obvious ones.

    The guard position is relatively straight forward, with Giddey and Patty Mills expected to both be locked in. Jock Landale will also be the starting center provided his ankle complaint doesn’t turn out to be anything serious, while Joe Ingles will likely start at the three.

    There could be an argument made though for Ingles starting off the bench given his success running Milwaukee’s second unit last season in the NBA.

    So, who could fill the final spot in the starting side? Well, the positional versatility mentioned above extends to plenty of other players in the squad so it’s a hard question to answer.

    It gives Goorjian plenty to think about but the same goes for opposition coaches given the flexibility it offers the Boomers, who are particularly blessed with athletic wings.

    That, of course, starts with Green and Matisse Thybulle. Both players fill pretty similar roles for the Boomers, so you would expect only one of them would be in the starting line-up.

    Although there is also obviously the chance that neither of them starts, depending on who fills that final spot in the team.

    “Josh as he develops does do a lot of what Matisse does and they’re very similar players,” Anstey told SEN Radio.

    “Neither of them shoot the 3 ball that well yet. Josh has probably demonstrated more improvement.”

    Boomers player Matisse Thybulle. Picture: Brendan RadkeSource: News Corp Australia

    Thybulle though showed plenty of improvement too since being traded to Portland, shooting a career-best 38.8 per cent from deep and averaging 7.4 points in 22 games for the Trail Blazers.

    And of course, Thybulle was one of the Boomers’ heroes in their 107-93 win over Slovenia in the bronze medal game, finishing with 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals.

    Thybulle is still the most talented defender in this Boomers squad, although the 26-year-old’s development on offence could dictate whether he or Green gets the nod in the future.

    “It will be interesting in the next 12 months if Josh does take that next step whether or not they continue to pick him and Matisse,” Anstey said.

    Honestly, there are so many different ways Goorjian could go depending on whether he wants to focus on shooting or even pure size.

    There could be more benefit in simply playing to Australia’s strengths instead of prioritising size for the sake of it too.

    Nick Kay, White and Cooks would also come into consideration depending on who is the final player cut from the current 13-man squad.

    HOW DOES GOORJIAN BALANCE THE PRESENT AND FUTURE?

    Outside of deciding who will be the final cut, the other big dilemma for coach Goorjian is the weighing up of the two different timelines the Boomers are navigating in their current state.

    Leaving Matthew Dellavedova, an Australian basketball legend, out of the 13-man squad for the warm-up games was expected — but it didn’t make it any less jarring.

    The same goes for Aron Baynes, yet another example of the changing of the guard that is taking place.

    But this generational shift isn’t happening with any eye just on the future. It is about what is best for the team now and its chances of going deep into the World Cup.

    Giddey and Daniels both have at least one season in the NBA under their belt and have proven they are not just Boomers of the future; they deserve their chance right now.

    Josh Giddey will be heavily involved in the offence. Picture: Brendan RadkeSource: News Corp Australia

    Speaking of Giddey, it will be particularly interesting to see how the Boomers run their offence and whether it goes through the 20-year-old or more experienced Mills.

    Best to ask Goorjian himself and the Boomers coach seemed to suggest the rising Oklahoma City star will play a big role.

    “One of the decisions made: when he’s on the floor, we’re gonna put the ball in his hands a lot,” Goorjian told ESPN.

    “He’s a huge piece of this moving forward. Not just this, but it’s like an Andrew Gaze, as far as the Boomers. What he is, and as we get him with the group, and as it expands, a lot of it’s gotta be built around him.”

    Speaking to reporters earlier in the month, Goorjian said even in training camp it was quickly becoming clear just how much better Giddey can make everybody else with the ball in his hands.

    “He’s a great player and I’m really excited about his progression in the NBA, it’s been remarkable and now I’m having him after last year’s improvement,” Goorjian said.

    “You just feel it the minute he walked in the gym, putting the ball in his hands. We’re very fortunate to have him.”

    Giddey though was also quick to recognise the influence and mentorship of veteran players like Ingles and Mills in shaping the player and competitor he is today.

    Boomers veteran Joe Ingles has been a mentor for Giddey. Picture: Brendan RadkeSource: News Corp Australia

    “I’ve been in contact with them for the last three, four years even before I signed in Adelaide so they’ve been great for me mentoring and guiding me,” Giddey told reporters earlier this month.

    “Patty is going to his fifth Olympics, Joe has been in multiple World Cups. They’ve represented Australia for a number of years now and to have those guys be able to teach me and guide me and show me the ropes of what it means to be a Boomer, I couldn’t ask for anything else.”

    While Giddey’s shooting still remains a work in progress, his playmaking prowess makes the 20-year-old the perfect focal point of the Boomers offence.

    That will mean playing at a faster pace, although that is something that teammate Kay is more than happy to do if it means having the ball in Giddey’s hands more.

    “He’s a hell of a player,” Kay said of Giddey on SEN Radio.

    “You just watch him at training and his ability to draw defence, make the right pass and create things for the other guys.

    “He’s definitely a guy that can carry on that Boomers program and possibly even take it to another level as he continues to mature as a player.”

    Patty Mills will still have an important role. Picture: Brendan RadkeSource: News Corp Australia

    Mills will still have a prominent role in this team, both on and off the court given his leadership and overall presence in the locker room.

    Anstey though believes the 35-year-old will still play an important role in dictating Australia’s success.

    “I don’t know if we hand the keys over straight away,” Anstey said.

    “We certainly give him a real quickfire induction and let him be him. He’ll have his moments… but it’s Patty’s team until it’s not and he’ll have his fingerprints all over this.”

    As a whole though, Anstey said he forecasts this year’s World Cup acting as somewhat of a springboard for next year’s Olympic Games — and that includes 20-year-old guard Daniels.

    “To get a major tournament into Dyson ahead of what is probably going to be the deepest and strongest Olympic Games in 2024 we’ve probably seen in quite a while, I tend to think they’d probably lean towards Dyson and youth,” Anstey said.

    Read on for a full ultimate guide of everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 FIBA World Cup!

    BOOMERS VS THE WORLD

    While the World Cup itself gets underway later this month, the Boomers will have five warm-up games before then to finetune things and make a final cut to their playing roster.

    Australia will be in action against Venezuela at Rod Laver Arena on Monday night (7.45pm AEST).

    Wednesday’s exhibition game against Brazil was scheduled for the same time but has since been pushed forward to a 5.30pm tip-off.

    It means Australian basketball fans will be able to tune into the game before switching over to watch the Matildas look to continue their dream FIFA Women’s World Cup charge against France.

    “The Matildas have really captured the nation this World Cup, including the men’s national basketball team. The way the ladies play with so much heart and passion has been so inspiring to witness,” Australian captain Patty Mills said.

    “Just like the rest of the country, our Boomers team have been locked in for each game, watching it as a team and enjoying every part of supporting and celebrating these incredible athletes.

    “Supporting our fellow Australian athletes is crucial, so moving our game was an easy decision. We are now super excited to join the rest of Australia in watching the ladies on Wednesday after we play our second game in Melbourne.”

    The final warm-up game in Melbourne will tip off at 7.45pm (AEST) on Thursday night, with the Boomers facing South Sudan at Rod Laver Arena.

    There will be two other opportunities for the Boomers to finalise their line-up, with friendly games against France and Georgia in Japan on August 20 and 22.

    FULL SCHEDULE (Times AEST)

    Australia vs Venezuela (Monday, August 14 @ 7.45pm)

    Australia vs Brazil (Wednesday, August 16 @ 5.30pm)

    Australia vs South Sudan (Thursday, August 17 @ 7.45pm)

    Australia vs France (Sunday, August 20 @ 2pm)

    Australia vs Georgia (Tuesday, August 22 @ TBD)

    HOW TO WATCH EVERY BOOMERS FIBA WORLD CUP GAME

    As for the World Cup action itself, the Boomers are part of Group E and will play Finland in their first official game to kick off the tournament.

    That game is scheduled for 6pm AEST on Friday, August 25. Australia is also scheduled to face Germany (6.30pm, August 27) and Japan (9.10pm, August 29) to round out the group stage.

    You can watch EVERY Boomers game live with ESPN on Kayo.

    FULL SCHEDULE

    Australia vs Finland (Friday, August 25 @ 6pm)

    Australia vs Germany (Sunday, August 27 @ 6.30pm)

    Australia vs Japan (Tuesday, August 29 @ 9.10pm)

    BOOMERS’ 13-MAN SQUAD FOR WARM-UP GAMES

    Xavier Cooks, Dyson Daniels, Dante Exum, Josh Giddey, Chris Goulding, Josh Green, Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Jock Landale (*injured), Patty Mills, Duop Reath, Matisse Thybulle, Jack White

    PLAYERS ALREADY CUT

    Matthew Dellavedova, Will McDowell-White, Thon Maker, Keanu Pinder, Sam Froling

    FIBA WORLD CUP GROUPS

    Group A: Angola, Dominican Republic, Philippines, Italy

    Group B: South Sudan, Serbia, China, Puerto Rico

    Group C: USA, Jordan, Greece, New Zealand

    Group D: Egypt, Mexico, Montenegro, Lithuania

    Group E: Germany, Finland, Australia, Japan

    Group F: Slovenia, Cape Verde, Georgia, Venezuela

    Group G: Iran, Spain, Cote d’Ivoire, Brazil

    Group H: Canada, Latvia, Lebanon, France

    FIBA WORLD CUP WINNER ODDS (via TAB.com.au)

    USA — $2.10

    Canada — $6.00

    Australia — $9.00

    Slovenia — $11.00

    France — $12.00

    NBA PLAYERS IN FIBA WORLD CUP (via NBA.com)

    Ben Simmons may not be suiting up for the Boomers but this is already a stacked roster at Brian Goorjian’s disposal, with 10 NBA players in Australia’s 13-man squad.

    Australia is not the only nation that will be bolstered by NBA talent at this year’s FIBA World Cup, with the United States obviously the most well-represented of the bunch.

    Austin Reaves and Mikal Bridges, two of the NBA’s most exciting breakout players last season, are part of a 12-man squad that features stars from teams all across the league.

    Meanwhile, NBA championship-winning guard Jamal Murray and Giddey’s Oklahoma City teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lead a Canada team that will pose a serious challenge.

    Luka Doncic, meanwhile, provided plenty of starpower for Slovenia although Greece is without one of its biggest draw cards after Giannis Antetokounmpo pulled out.

    Antetokounmpo underwent knee surgery at the start of July and has not participated in Greece’s preparations for the tournament.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo will miss the World Cup. (Photo by Oliver Behrendt / AFP)Source: AFP

    “Since the conclusion of my NBA season I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set,” Antetokounmpo wrote on social media last week.

    “After months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup.

    “This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career.

    “I am extremely disappointed in this outcome.”

    GROUP A

    Angola: Roster not announced.

    Dominican Republic: Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves), Lester Quinones (Golden State Warriors)

    Italy: Simone Fontecchio (Utah Jazz)

    Philippines: Jordan Clarkson (Utah Jazz)

    GROUP B

    China: Kyle Anderson (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Serbia: Bogdan Bogdanovic (Atlanta Hawks), Aleksej Pokusevski (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jovic (Miami Heat), Filip Petrusev (Philadelphia 76ers)

    South Sudan: Roster not announced.

    Puerto Rico: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP C

    Greece: Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

    Jordan: Roster not announced.

    New Zealand: No NBA players on roster.

    United States: Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic), Mikal Bridges (Brooklyn Nets), Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers), Josh Hart (New York Knicks), Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans), Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies), Cameron Johnson (Brooklyn Nets), Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz), Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks), Austin Reaves (Los Angeles Lakers)

    GROUP D

    Egypt: No NBA players on roster.

    Lithuania: Jonas Valanciunas (New Orleans Pelicans), Azuolas Tubelis (Philadelphia 76ers)

    Mexico: No NBA players on roster.

    Montenegro: Nikola Vucevic (Chicago Bulls)

    GROUP E

    Australia: Xavier Cooks (Washington Wizards), Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans), Dante Exum (Dallas Mavericks), Josh Giddey (Oklahoma City Thunder), Josh Green (Dallas Mavericks), Joe Ingles (Orlando Magic), Jock Landale (Houston Rockets), Patty Mills (Atlanta Hawks), Matisse Thybulle (Portland Trail Blazers), Jack White (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Finland: Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz)

    Germany: Dennis Schroder (Toronto Raptors), Daniel Theis (Indiana Pacers), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Moritz Wagner (Orlando Magic)

    Japan: Yuta Watanabe (Phoenix Suns)

    GROUP F

    Cape Verde: No NBA players on roster.

    Georgia: Goga Bitadze (Orlando Magic), Sandro Mamukelashvili (San Antonio Spurs)

    Slovenia: Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks)

    Venezuela: No NBA players on roster.

    GROUP G

    Brazil: Raul Neto (Cleveland Cavaliers)

    Cote d’Ivoire: No NBA players on roster.

    Iran: No NBA players on roster.

    Spain: Santi Aldama (Memphis Grizzlies), Usman Garuba (Atlanta Hawks)

    GROUP H

    Canada: Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), RJ Barrett (New York Knicks), Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets), Lu Dort (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Minnesota Timberwolves), Kelly Olynyk (Utah Jazz), Dwight Powell (Dallas Mavericks)

    France: Frank Ntilikina (Free agent), Nicolas Batum (LA Clippers), Evan Fournier (New York Knicks), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves)

    Latvia: Kristaps Porzingis (Boston Celtics), Davis Bertans (Oklahoma City Thunder)

    Lebanon: No NBA players on roster.

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  • ‘Hardest part of sport’: Boomers make first cuts to World Cup squad as trio miss out

    ‘Hardest part of sport’: Boomers make first cuts to World Cup squad as trio miss out

    The Boomers have made the first cuts to their 18-man squad ahead of the FIBA World Cup.

    Thon Maker, Keanu Pinder, and Sam Froling were the three players to miss out as Basketball Australia confirmed the reduced squad after Sunday’s scrimmage in Cairns.

    The remaining 15 players will stay in camp in Cairns until Wednesday, when they will travel to Melbourne for warm-up games against Brazil, South Sudan and Venezuela.

    Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian will then have to cut the final squad down to 12 after those games.

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    Giannis in doubt for FIBA World Cup | 01:16

    “This is an elite squad with so much talent, there is no easy way to make cuts, but the reality is that we only get to take 12 into Okinawa,” Goorjian said on Sunday.

    “Would I take all of these players if I could? Absolutely, but that’s the hardest part of sport, you have to make the cuts, we have to keep moving forward.

    “I have the utmost respect for Sam, Thon and Keanu and their contribution here in Cairns, their work rate has been exceptional. On and off court they have demonstrated the highest level of professionalism.

    “They are the best in the field for a reason and of course I’m disappointed that they can’t come through with us, but they all respect the process and came into the camp understanding what we are all here to achieve.”

    BOOMERS’ 15-MAN SQUAD

    Xavier Cooks

    Dyson Daniels

    Matthew Dellavedova

    Dante Exum

    Josh Giddey

    Chris Goulding

    Josh Green

    Joe Ingles

    Nick Kay

    Jock Landale

    Will McDowell-White

    Patty Mills

    Duop Reath

    Matisse Thybulle

    Jack White

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