Basketball might not be the first sport you think of when anyone mentions Australia—but that could soon change.
The Australian national men’s basketball team, The Boomers, is heating up in the 2019 Basketball World Cup (also known as FIBA). If you haven’t been paying attention to FIBA yet, and you’re living down undah, you might want to start now—and we have three great reasons why.
1. Team Australia beat Team USA and made history
The 2019 Boomers beat Team USA—something the men’s Australian basketball team has never done… ever. They’ve been waiting a long time for it too—55 years. Team USA included some serious NBA talent, including Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks (who were contenders for the NBA Championship this year).
Sure, it was a friendly match before the official start of the tournament BUT the 98-94 nailbiting win boosted spirits for the team and the country in a big way. It raised hopes that Australia will go far in the tournament, and for the team’s chances at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
Australia has yet to face Team USA in the tournament itself, but it’s a possibility if they keep moving up. Which brings us to our next point…
2. They’re already in the quarter-finals AND the tournament is almost over
While you’ve been living your life, the Boomers have been grinding their way up the FIBA ladder with grit and determination. The Australian team ust beat France on September 9, 100-98, compelling them into the quarter-final.
The tournament only runs until September 15th, which means the heat is on and the excitement is building to a peak. They’re now only three games away from being World Cup champions. Are you really going to miss that?
3. It’s a great excuse to get together with your friends
Maybe you don’t care about basketball—hey, that’s fair. But, if nothing else, tuning in to cheer on Team Australia in the FIBA tournament is a great excuse for a party.
You might have friends over to your place, or head to the nearest pub and cheer them on over a couple of pints. (Be sure to wear the team’s signature colours: green and golden yellow!) This bandwagon is full steam ahead and heading out.
Australia next plays the Czech Republic on Wednesday, September 11 at 21:00 (GMT+8).
Will you be tuning in to cheer on Aus? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook or Instagram.
