Australia’s dreams of taking the gold medal at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup are over after they were defeated by Spain in a double-overtime semi-final.
The Boomers held the lead all the way from the opening minute of the second term, to within 60 seconds of halftime, but an inspired Spanish comeback would force the game into overtime.
From there, it was tense both ways, and after five minutes the sides still couldn’t be separated, but with Spain holding their nerve in the second term of overtime, they galloped away with the game and were able to enjoy the final 30 seconds of the contest.
Spain were objectively the worse of the two sides for much of the contest though, with the Boomers controlling the glass well and shooting with efficiency when opportunities were presented. While the Boomers were aided by a pretty ordinary shooting percentage from Spain, they lead at halftime and three quarter time, with the lead going out to 11 at one stage.
However, Spain got it back to four early in the fourth, hung around, and then forced overtime on the back of some phenomenal play from Ricky Rubio and Marc Gasol, with the NBA veteran centre ending up with 33 points, six rebounds and four assists across his 39 minutes on court.
The centre was undoubtedly the MVP for Spain, and the amount of times he got a switch in defence and took on a guard was extremely problematic for the Boomers down the stretch.
Australia held their own though, with Patty Mills hitting another 34 points, but they struggled for offensive efficiency outside of the tournament’s highest scorer, and fell apart altogether in the second period of overtime.
The Boomers now have to get back up for the bronze-medal play-off on Sunday, while Spain head to the gold medal game.
Spain – 95
Australia – 88
More to come.
Rellum
Roar Guru
Seems we didn't play out our best and still went to double overtime. If we can just get Simmons and Maker to suit up for the Olympics and play with the same team spirit we are a great shot of a Final spot.
Tyke
Roar Rookie
It was a shame to see his misses get to him, a player like him has the green light to never stop shooting, no matter how many misses. He hasn’t been great all tournament
scar82
Guest
victory taken from the jaws of defeat. boomers had it all the way till the final second. what a game even to go into 2 overtime plays. well done Australia it was not meant to be after all but from a team that has a weak domestic comp they have done exceptionally well. go for a medal you have beaten France b4 now you need to do it again. congrats Spain.
Gurudoright
Guest
Don’t worry about the last OT, the last 5 minutes in the 4th quarter was dreadful to watch. Leading by 8 at one stage, it was turnover after turnover that loss that game and a guaranteed medal
Anibal Pyro
Roar Rookie
SCOLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!! ARGENTINA TO THE FINALS OF THE WORLD CUP!! What a team!!, what a Defense!! great soul, respect inside and outside the field, too much work, with no size as the Tier 1. Congrats to an example of hard work of a bunch of guys, staff, and the program of a small nation.
Jacks
Roar Guru
Final OT was awful for Australia. Bloody Basketball that was shi^&! Also Joe Shoot it! I play 2nd division and cant stop shooting come on mate!