Australian centre Andrew Bogut believes the Boomers have "some good years coming up" and warns the team from Down Under could spring some upsets at the World Championships in Japan in August.

The seven-footer, who is averaging 9.1 points and 7.5 rebounds in his first season with the Milwaukee Bucks, was a smash hit at the Athens Olympics in 2004 and then, after his sophomore year at Utah, enjoyed his finest hour as the top pick in the NBA Draft.

Bogut missed the Boomers' Commonwealth Games gold medal performance due to his NBA commitments and he can hardly wait to represent his country again.

"I will definitely play in the World Championship," Bogut said.

"We just go trying to take teams out as the underdogs, and then we will be happy."

As an Aussie who has made it to the NBA, Bogut feels basketball's popularity is on the increase in Australia and that has led to more people playing the game.

"It has changed (our strength)," he said. "We got a lot of guys, a lot of main players with the teams in Europe," he said.

"And with me in the NBA, there's hope people follow the NBA a bit more. And I believe there will soon be other players (from Australia in the NBA). So I think we've got some good years coming up."

Looking ahead to Japan, Bogut says Australia is not one of the favourites.

"The USA are always favourites. Serbia & Montenegro are also favourites and Argentina are defending (Olympic) champs so it will be tough. We are never favourites."

The rookie from Down Under, who last month had his Utes jersey retired at Utah, admits he has found it difficult adjusting to life in the United States.

"America is much different, so I miss Australia a lot," said Bogut.

"It is a different culture here. America is like a whole different planet.

"I miss the people I grew up with - my friends, my family, all type of stuff."

He has experienced a transition on the court as well.

Bogut's role has changed from the go-to-guy at Utah to a solid role player with the Bucks. He knows he can improve all aspects of his game.

"Playing defence, taking charges, getting rebounds - I can improve everywhere," he said.

"It is just a challenge to work hard and practice hard."

Johannes Berendt
AP