Their opening clash will also be a marquee matchup between two of the powerhouses in international basketball, with The Boomers coming up against Spain. Australia went into the game with a glimmer of hope and Spain hoped to play back their hyperbole but there was fire in these loins. The fans in the stadium of Pierre Mauroy were feeling an exciting atmosphere and eagerly waiting for a high-profile clash.
First Quarter
It did start well for Australia, initially rushing New Zealand to score a try and showing their characteristic high tempo play at both ends of the court. Veteran Boomers guard Patty Mills was at the fore with his scoring ability and on court leadership. The Boomers went to work on Spain’s defensive transitions in a plan that involved forcing quick turnovers and capitalizing on the offensive holes. The big men for Australia, which included Jock Landale, certainly made their presence felt in the paint and helped them stake an early lead.
Quarter 2 – Spain Struggles Back
Spain, on their part replied in the second quarter using experience and tactical discipline. Behind a strong performance by the Gasol brothers, Spain’s inside-out game was starting to work. Wth Ricky Rubio playmaking on Sergio Llull hitting from the perimeter, Spain roared back to take a 22-19 advantage. The thread-the-needle passing was not there and Spanish defense had a clearer game plan as they forced boomers to harder shots that lead into more steal opportunities. The Boomers just scraped through the first half with a lead in hand.
Quarter 3
Both teams made strategic adjustments throughout the third quarter. Mills and Joe Ingles continued to set the tempo for Australia. Ingles’ all around game is utilized again showcasing his court vision and versatility to create scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, Spain expanded their defensive roles and exploited Australia turnovers. The game got even more physical as both teams tried to put their stamp on the contest. The game stayed tight, neither team able to get out and away.
Fourth Quarter
Then came the fourth quarter, as dramatic a frame that anyone could’ve expected for game with so much on the line. Australia instead showcased its depth, receiving role-play influence from Matisse Thybulle and Chris Goulding. The Boomers also made key baskets with good defense from Thybulle and scores by Goulding beyond the three point line. The Gasol brothers out-worked them under the rim and Ricky Rubio ran behind Spain towards orchestrating their offense.
Key Performances
Patty Mills: The star of the show, top-scorer and hitting shots when it mattered. His leadership and scoring were crucial yin getting the Boomers over the line.
Joe Ingles: When Australia was winning, it typically involved production on both ends of the court from Joe. Because of his all-around skills, Harrell was a game-changer.
Jock Landale The paint Great offensive and defensive from the Boomers was established by being dominant in-Landale. But his presence from the glass and inside scoring were major.
Ricky Rubio: Despite some sloppy turnovers, Ricky did his best to keep Spain within arm’s reach with both passing and scoring! One of the elements that pointed to his leadership was how organized Spain played.
What the Boomers displayed in their opening game of the Olympic Tournament against Spain at Pierre Mauroy Stadium was preparation, depth and determination that led to a win. The triumph is a harbinger of what to expect from them in the tournament and proves that they can challenge even the biggest, best teams internationally. Bolstered by that momentum, the Boomers are targeting their best-ever Olympic finish – a medal.