Boomers suffer surprise defeat

An undermanned Australia has suffered a shock disruption to its World Cup preparation, and suffered a surprise four-point loss to Brazil at Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday night.

Jock Landale and Josh Green remained sidelined after missing Monday’s win over Venezuela, while Chris Goulding also missed the clash following the knee injury he suffered on Monday.

A strong second and third quarter from the host side was book-ended by an exceptional defensive performance in the opening and final stanzas from Brazil.

The Boomers slumped to an 11-point deficit mid-way through the third quarter largely due to poor shooting – they hit zero of eight attempted threes for the term – and a staunch defensive effort from Brazil led by former Toronto Raptor Bruno Caboclo.

After trailing by 10 points at the first break the Boomers took their defence up a notch in the second to trim the margin to just two points at the main break.

Former Wildcat Nick Kay proved the catalyst for a late second quarter comeback with a pair of threes, while reigning NBL MVP Xavier Cooks proved a force on the offensive boards.

NBA champion Jack White provided an immense surge of energy off the bench for the Boomers, and was tasked with defending genuine seven-foot centre Felipe dos Anjos as Brian Goorjian elected to run with a small-ball lineup.

Brazil earned their opening Boomers vs World victory over South Sudan after switching to a three/two zone on the defensive end, and the change in system once again stifled the Australian offence, and the away side once again took the lead halfway through the fourth quarter.

Veteran pair Joe Ingles and Patty Mills each endured uncharacteristically poor shooting nights, with Mills hitting just two of 12 shots – including two of 12 from three on the night.

Ingles did however dish a team high five assists.

Young star Josh Giddey continued his impressive form with a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double.

Brazil’s Caboclo found himself in foul trouble during the third quarter, but impressed with 20 points, 11 boards and five blocks, while Vitor Benite added 17 points from the bench.

NBA pair Raul Neto and Gui Santos were both absent from proceedings, however Neto did suit up on the bench for the clash.

Australia will have an opportunity to rectify Wednesday’s defeat with its final Boomers vs World clash against South Sudan on Thursday.

AUSTRALIA 86
BRAZIL 90