The Australian Men's Basketball team continues its Olympic campaign tonight against Italy full of confidence after a comprehensive - if not a little clunky - win over Nigeria in the opening pool game.
Former Boomer Shane ‘The Hammer’ Heal has told the 'Afternoon Sport' podcast that he is convinced the Boomers will get their first ever medal in Tokyo.
Having been coached by Brian Goorgian before, The Hammer thinks that Goorigan could be the missing link.
“He is a fantastic coach. He came to the Sydney Kings when they were in a drought as well, they had never won a championship before and he is very inspiring,” Heal said.
“He works you on defence but he knows how to sell a story and get you to believe what you can achieve.”
Yes👀🤞🏼 https://t.co/yfPWc4Az91
— Shane Heal (@ShaneHeal) July 22, 2021
Italy comes into the match after a 10-point win over Germany 92-82.
Simon Fontecchio top scored for the Italians with 20, Atlanta Hawks forward Danilo Gallinari and Stefano Tonut both had 18 each.
For the Boomers against Nigeria, the brilliant Patty Mills was a standout with 25, while Joe Ingles and Dante Exum both scoring 11.
One of the strongest parts of the Boomers makeup is its team culture.
“When we grew up that is what our goal was to go to the Olympic Games,” Heal said.
“I didn't dream of going to the NBA, the great thing about this team is we have guys like Mills, Ingles, Baynes and Dellavadova so passionate about playing for their country and giving up their whole off season to win this first medal.”
The Boomers play Italy at 6.20pm AEST tonight.
Tim Gilbert
