The Boomer’s run to the Rio basketball semi-finals is generating huge excitement, as they prepare for their first shot at an Olympic medal in 16 years.
Australia’s basketballers have been the surprise hit of the Rio Olympics and gained rave reviews from hoops-devotees worldwide.
The Australian Boomers feature some top NBA talent and they’ve recently qualified for the semi-finals after smashing Lithuania by 26 points.
They head into a mouth-watering matchup as the clear favourites against world number six, Serbia.
The contest could be a history-making event for the Boomers as a win would guarantee Australia a shot at the gold and a maiden Olympic medal.
The Milwaukee Bucks’ newest signing Matthew Dellavedova has been one of the outstanding players on the Boomers side.
Dellavadova reached double figures every game so far and Maryborough Basketball president Sally Neill – Dellavedova’s junior home club – said he’s set to be a leader on the international court.
“Every time he comes home, he comes to the club and does something. The kids love it. They all want to be the next Delly,” she said.
Neill said the Boomers’ Olympic performance could be a boon for Australian basketball.
“Delly in particular has been such an under-dog; it’s huge for any kid wanting to achieve what he’s done. He is a great ambassador for being able to fulfill your dreams,” she said.
The men’s team finally has a chance to stand beside Australia’s female basketball team, nicknamed the Opals, who have already achieved three silver medals at previous Olympics.
It would be a huge breakthrough for the Aussies who have been accused of playing “dirty” by the reigning USA basketball Olympics champions.
US accuses #Boomers of playing dirty. Luc Longley’s response? “Tellemthat’s Int’l bball’’ https://t.co/a2enBlwaYO pic.twitter.com/rTuuWAeNNy
— The Australian (@australian) August 11, 2016
Australian basketball has boomed in popularity in recent years thanks to popular players like Andrew Bogut, but local competition still plays second fiddle to the NBA.
Each of the starting five in the Boomers line-up are currently registered with NBA clubs but they all occupy reserve or role playing positions.
Given Australia’s strong performances and recent string of juniors attaining high NBA draft picks, the Boomers reputation looks certain to soar over the coming years.
Melbourne, in particular, is carrying the weight of this growth having contributed three No.1 drafts in just twelve years, making it one of the hottest basketball cities in the world.
Here’s how the rest of the world reacted to the Boomers triumph:
The Boomers are so tough to stop in Off because of the ball & player movement & passing ability. So good to watch & tough to stop. #Boomers👊
— Shane Heal (@ShaneHeal) August 17, 2016
Dominant performance from the #Boomers – onto Croatia/Serbia.
Medal looking very likely! #LidsOff 🏀— Josh Jenkins (@JoshJenkins24) August 17, 2016
BRING ON THE SEMI FINALS!!!!! So proud… Great work Boomers!!! #goingforgold #boomers
— RenaeIngles (@RenaeIngles) August 17, 2016
By Lucas Radbourne-Pugh, Dylan Callard and Zoe Law
