The Australian Boomers are setting the stage for an Olympic showdown in Paris 2024.
THREE POINTER:
- 22-Player Squad Unveiled: Basketball Australia announces the Boomers’ preliminary squad for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
- Tokyo 2020 Heroes Return: Ten players from the Tokyo 2020 Bronze Medal team make the list.
- Simmons Sidelined: Ben Simmons’ back injury forces him out of the Olympic squad.
The Selection Heat Is On
July will see the Boomers’ squad whittle down from 22 to the final 12 in a training camp that promises to be as intense as it is pivotal. These players will then carry the nation’s hopes against the world’s finest on the Olympic stage.
Tokyo Medalists Lead the Charge
The squad features a strong core of ten players from the Tokyo 2020 team, including basketball stalwarts like Joe Ingles and Patty Mills. Their experience and proven track record on the Olympic stage is invaluable.
Fresh Faces Eye Olympic Debuts
The squad isn’t just about the old guard. A slew of young talents is vying for the Olympic dream. From Josh Giddey’s flair to Johnny Furphy’s college stardom, the Boomers are injecting new blood into their ranks.
NBL Stars Step Up
The homegrown talent isn’t being overlooked either. Standouts from the NBL, such as DJ Vasiljevic and Rocco Zikarsky, have earned their spots after shining in recent international qualifiers.
Simmons Out of the Picture
In a significant blow to the team, Ben Simmons will miss out on the Olympics due to a back injury. His absence will be felt, but the Boomers are no strangers to overcoming adversity.
Goorjian’s Vision for Victory
Head Coach Brian Goorjian is at the helm for his fourth Olympics, and he’s got his eyes set on evolution, not just participation.
“We’ve been actively monitoring the Aussie players… we’re confident in the potential chemistry of this list,” Goorjian stated.
The coach is crafting a game plan that’s quick to implement and showcases the players’ collective skills, aiming for a style that’s uniquely Australian.
Addressing Squad Dynamics
Two key areas have been targeted in the selection: versatility and shooting talent. With players like Jock Landale and Xavier Cooks adding depth, and sharpshooters like Chris Goulding and Dyson Daniels on board, the Boomers are shaping a formidable lineup.
The Road Ahead
Australia’s drawn into Group A, dubbed the ‘Group of Death’, but for Goorjian and his team, it’s just another challenge to rise to.
“We’re going to play Aussie ball. And we’re going to go at them with all we’ve got,” Goorjian declared with determination.
The Full Squad Roster
View full roster HERE
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