Hot off their unbeaten FIBA World Cup Qualifier games in Melbourne, the Australian Boomers are bound for the FIBA Asia Cup in Jakarta to defend their title after winning gold in 2017.
Australia will be looking to find the top of the podium once again and with a 6-0 performance in the Qualifiers, confidence is high.
Ten out of the 12 Boomers who played in Melbourne will make the trip to Indonesia, Matthew Dellavedova (rest), Jack White (NBA Summer League) and Jack McVeigh (injury) are unavailable to play.
Young Boomers, Tyrese Proctor and Alex Ducas have their opportunity to rack up more game time following their Melbourne debuts, Rhys Vague and David Okwera will both come back into the line-up for their second Boomers appearances.
Mitch McCarron, Thon Maker and Sam Froling’s international experience will be beneficial to a relatively young Boomers’ lineup and after debuting at last week’s series, Will McDowell-White, Clint Steindl, Keanu Pinder, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk and Sam McDaniel will each have another chance to make an impact in the green and gold.
Boomers’ Asia Cup Head Coach Mike Kelly is excited to pick up where the team left off in Melbourne.
“We are bringing an exciting group of players to compete for gold at the Asia Cup, we have a great blend of experience and talented young players,” Kelly said.
“I’m happy to have a lot of continuity with players, coaches and staff from our recent successful qualifiers in Melbourne.”
The FIBA Asia Cup tips off next Tuesday, July 12th when Australia take on Jordan, 6pm AEST. Full schedule available here.
FIBA ASIA CUP BOOMERS TEAM: Alex Ducas Sam Froling Thon Maker Mitch McCarron Sam McDaniel Will McDowell White David Okwera Keanu Pinder Tyrese Proctor Clint Steindl Wani Swaka Lo Buluk Rhys Vague
