Team Australia – one of the 2023 FIBA World Cup favorites – began their campaign with a thumping of Finland. The Boomers started the contest slow and sluggish, failing to find their chemistry on the floor. For the initial half, it looked like Lauri Markkanen could pull off the improbable. However, Josh Giddey and Australia quickly switched gears, incrementing their efforts on both sides of the floor. As an additional treat to the fans, they identified the exact moment the balance shifted.

One of the unique and engaging aspects of the World Cup is free access to the coach’s instructions during timeouts. And for Australia, the instructions were clear – to channel ‘The Answer’.

Allen Iverson saved Australia from FIBA World Cup embarrassment

The opening game for the Boomers was against first-time NBA All-Star Lauri Markkanen and Finland. In terms of talent, Australia held the advantage. However, the start of the game narrated a different story. Finland came out making the big moves, playing pitbull defense, and rattling the powerhouses. Australia seemed lost, having no answers for their tenacious rivals. Nothing fell into motion until the second-half timeout.

With them trailing only marginally, coach Brian Goorjian spoke strongly about a change in tactics. “Do some Iverson, some circles get to some side pick and rolls,” he instructed the troops. Moreover, he laid heavy emphasis on Australia amping up their defense. With almost immediate effect, the Boomers switched to their ruthless mechanism.

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They ran the infamous Allen Iverson-type plays and got into pick-and-roll actions. All of a sudden, shooters were open, spaces were available and they capitalized generously. Josh Giddey steered the forces and helped them take the lead to end the half. After the answer was evident, Australia didn’t waver.

Giddey and Mills lead the charge

Team Australia into fifth gear embraced their momentum. The contest was physical, however, it didn’t matter to the Boomers. Finland fell to the scintillating pressure and could never recover. Josh Giddey starred with 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. Olympic hero Patty Mills went unconscious scoring 25 to lead both teams. Lauri Markkanen’s hot start only amounted to him scoring 19 points as he fell off in the second half.

Australia piled on 96 points in total, 51 in the second half to be precise. On the other hand, Finland couldn’t replicate their offensive success and collapsed. It was a statement win for the Boomers who proved why they are amongst the favorites to win the competition.

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Giddey and his men were resilient and persistent for success. And their unshaken mentality paid off tonight.