25/08/08 web editorial words: todd spehr image mark nolan
THE BEST IS YET TO COME.
It was hardly a game that led to a light bulb moment above any NBA general manager’s head, but Patty Mills’ performance for the Boomers against Team USA in the premier quarterfinal matchup certainly confirmed what many have suspected: Mills is an NBA calibre player.
His jumper is a little streaky and he’s undersized – at best – but he’s got heart and knows how to play the game and is just 20 years old. That leads onto perhaps the craziest revolution of the past fortnight: Mills is already the leader of this team. With him on the court, the squad looked tight, strong and bold – no one was less intimidated by Team USA than he.
Twice in the space of three weeks, Mills has more than held his own against the two best young point guards on the planet – Chris Paul and Deron Williams – blazing past them and fearlessly hitting the seams and creating cracks in the perfect US veneer. With 20 points in Australia’s Beijing finale, Mills seems to have achieved a quiet version of his own Shane Heal moment. When The Hammer dropped 28 on the USA in a pre Olympic exhibition in Salt Lake City just weeks prior to the 1996 Atlanta Games, it was a performance that helped seal a subsequent three year contract offer from Minnesota. And with a performance not unlike that of Heal’s – if lacking in a physical confrontation with a generational icon – Mills may have all but guaranteed his professional future.
Still, to pinpoint his coming out party as just one game is an injustice to how he played over the entire tournament, in which he averaged double figures. If the defining quality of a baller is to make others better, then inspiring them to great heights must be a spectacular and rare skill – and one Mills possesses. There seems to be a genuine embrace of Mills by the wider public, even beyond the Aussie hoop junkies, which points to him as a relatable cultural figure of the Andrew Gaze mould.
To strike while the iron is hot, Mills will look to capitalise on his high stock with another great season at St Mary’s College of California and it’s hardly outside of the realm of possibility that we’ll see him taking the hardwood with an NBA team in just over a year’s time. While plenty is still to happen for him to reach that stage, there’s no doubt he’s on his way. “I'm glad my Duke team doesn't play St Mary’s,” Mike Krzyzewski quips. “He’ll be an NBA guard.” Done and done.
25/08/08 web editorial words: handle magazine
CHANNEL) SEVEN WAYS TO F--K UP YOUR OLYMPIC BASKETBALL BROASTCAST.
Appropriating David Letterman’s style is never easy but we thought we’d celebrate the pathetic broadcast of the Beijing Olympic with a count down dedicated to Channel Seven…
THE TOP SEVEN SIGNS THAT YOU KNOW CHANNEL SEVEN IS BROADCASTING THE OLYMPIC BASKETBALL….
07.
Channel Seven skillfully avoids the use of actual sports commentators, making their hoops coverage more painful than hearing Mark Bradtke dropping sideline comments during NBL games on Fox Sports.
06.
The live broadcast is continually interrupted by endless replays of old medal coverage while they take unnecessary commercial breaks during live action but keep the cameras rolling when there is a timeout on the floor.
05.
One quarter of the Men’s basketball between Australia vs. Croatia is shown between “so-called” swimming highlights, while the entire Iran vs. Russia game is broadcast uninterrupted throughout Australia.
04. During the Gold Medal match, they accidently disconnect and then misplace their live feed but offer all eager viewers a highly comforting consolation prize: the six o'clock news with extended highlights of the diving.
03.
Standing out as the Opals biggest threat, the US Women’s basketball team are completely ignored by Seven despite remaining undefeated in their preliminary round play. In their quick witted, best George Bush attempts to prove that “if you don’t see it, it doesn’t exist” Seven helps the Opals secure their first Gold by pretending the other good women’s teams aren’t in Beijing this year.
02.
The same Channel that refused to interview CJ Bruton and the members of the gold medal winning Commonwealth Games Boomers, despite promises made, are now all over the Boomers (and basketball) like they’re fans from way back.
01.
Kochie and Mel commentate the Boomers v USA game.
(Special thanks to William Hardie, Will Cowie, Benjamin Funnell and Ben Carthy for their input. Game recognize game, Channel Seven recognise the foot). Want to complain about Seven’s broadcast? If you live in Sydney, make sure to stand outside of the Channel Seven Sunrise window in Martin Place when Mel and Kosch return from China and make sure to hold up your sign that states “Your Olympic coverage can kiss my a--”.)
25/08/08 Web editorial words: handle magazine
SUPPORT THE OLYMPIC BEACONS
There will come a time when Australian basketball stands amongst the world’s powerhouses. Sadly 2008 is not that time. After finishing a disappointing fourth in its pool round, Australia found itself matched up against one of the strongest USA basketball teams ever to grace an international event. A fine mix of youth, experience, brashness, charisma, smooth shooting and explosive power, this Team USA is practically unbeatable. The quarter final game, shown briefly on channel 7 – in between major telecasts of this year’s Olympic sponsors and affiliates – was a decidedly one sided affair. Team USA had answers at every turn, from Kobe Bryant’s rediscovery of his three point shot to LeBron James’ physical domination. The biggest disappointment was the exposure of two of our best international talents; captain Matt Nielsen and big man David Anderson have promised so much but seemed lost on the pine when the time came to put it all together. With so much discussion surrounding the USA’s lack of size, a greater showing from our four legit big men would have at least attempted to work on the opponent's supposed weakness. However, Australia was slaughtered on the defensive and (most notably) on the offensive glass. For too much was left for medium sized players like David Barlow, Brad Newley and, in particular, Mark Worthington to clean up. It eventually became a drubbing, but highlights included: A. The arrival on the international stage of Patrick Mills who, at no point in this contest, took a backwards step and can now surely pencil his name into next June’s draft order. B. The hard work, pressure, athleticism and rebounding of Mark “handlebar moustache” Worthington, who continued to fight long after the game had been decided. He’s probably still at Wukesong Stadium, pulling down phantom rebounds right now. C. Joe Ingles impressive stint, deep, deep, deep into the fourth quarter during which time his long arms provided a hindrance on defence and his three point shooting a boost on offence. He looked like Manu Ginobili out there, darting around and showing up all over the court. And finally, D. Andrew Bogut, Brad Newley and David Barlow did everything in their power to stave off humiliation, and even Glen Saville showed there was some fight left in an old dog, dropping a couple of threes from the corner, getting fouled and making sure Dwyane Wade knew who hit it. So another chapter closes on Australian basketball folklore in familiar fashion. Again we will be the team that could have but didn’t. However, just as we’ve done each of the past four Olympics, we’ll look forward four years in anticipation, watch Mills, Worthington, Ingles and the rest grow up and cross our fingers for London. In the meantime, enjoy this image…
Don't forget to pick up our special Olympic issue, out now!
22/08/08 web editorial words: brad graham
GET UP SON: THE GREATEST OLYMPIC DUNKS
Tracy McGrady’s pro career snowballed following his windmill dunk as a high school project. In hoops, this kind of flash-in-the-pan happens all the time. Players serve up a nasty facial and then all of a sudden their prospects look a lot like oil. Speaking of career turns that may well be reduced to one play, Andrew Bogut’s recent showing against Russia and Lithuania in Beijing, reminded the world why he was the first overall selection in ‘05 coming out of the University of Utah. Dressed to impress in his Adidas uniform, and wearing his “you-can’t-f-with-me” face, Bogut stepped up and threw down one of the more memorable Olympic dunks against the Russian Federation. Yes, Bogut knows how to serve it up cold to the comrades. Make sure to check back with handlemag.com.au, as we’ll post the clip as soon as it becomes available. Bogut’s dunk got the handle team thinking. What memorable crams have Team USA thrown down in Beijing? There was that ridiculous out-of-bounds alley that Wade lobbed for the Kobe flush, then again, there was that King James change-it-up-in-mid-air dunk that has us all salivating. While we are sure there are plenty more, we thought we’d hand it over to you, our readers, to help us celebrate the finest Olympic basketball highlights. From Shawn Kemp and Shaquille O’Neal in 1996 to MJ and Barkley in 92, there have been an endless array of memorable moments… including this one… that happened in our own backyard…
Part time handle consultant and genuine basketball madman Wayne Hunt sent through this YouTube clip to our in-office team. While we’re still not sure if we should be offended (on behalf of Los Angeles Lakers guard Sasha Vujacic) either as a player or as a minority, we do believe that you’ll find this clip to be pretty funny. Enjoy.
21/08/08 web editorial words: nick metallions
MELO ALL THE WAY
Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, 2003 Draft Classmates, franchise players, former Team USA tri-captains and close friends off the court -but that’s were the likenesses end. While LeBron and Wade have both made NBA Finals appearances (2006 and 2007, respectively), Carmelo has yet to advanced his Nuggets past the first round and is in danger of spending the next few years being a great player who never wins. His ability to drift back into the shadows has seemingly been transferred over the 2008 edition of Team USA. While all the hype pre-Beijing was centred on Melo, this team's version of Barkley, the natural international game, the real X-Factor and the most important piece to Team USA’s road to redemption, the forward has only shown glimpses of what was promised, or projected. That said, King James has been, well, King and Dwyane Wade is playing possessed, like the Olympics mean something. While no-one questions Melo's potential or his ability to take over a game, it is his predilection for not playing defence on the NBA timber that has seen his game fail to capture the imaginations of James and Wade fans. More Paul Pierce than Kobe Bryant, Melo remains a truly great player who needs to find a post Beijing urgency to win. And win now. Arguably the prototypical international player, at 6'9” and 230lbs, the shorter confines of the FIBA courts allows Melo to be a threat and operate anywhere on the court. If the USA are going to take home gold, they will need Melo to fire on all cylinders. Remember, Bird, Magic and Jordan needed Barkley. Bryant, James and Wade need Melo.
20/08/08 web editorial words: todd spehr
THE NBA OFF-SEASON IS A WORTHY OLYMPIC DISTRACTION
While the Beijing Olympic hype continues to spread like smog, the NBA off-season has brought with it a flurry of interest thanks to the value of the Euro. Josh Childress, with his Dr J afro and from the naval jumper, looks the part of trendsetter, but his latest venture – balling in Greece for big money – is hardly the sea change commentators seem compelled to make it out to be. He was a valuable member of an Atlanta Hawks squad which ended a nine year playoff drought last season, but he was hardly that single defining player who’ll shatter NBA superiority by taking off overseas. His three year, $20 million (tax prorated) deal with Olympiakos BC makes him the highest profiled player of the short list of ex-NBA ballers who found green pastures in Europe, but he is neither the only or the last such turncoat. And the reasons behind his departure have everything to do with the L’s salary structure, collective bargaining agreement and the relative strength of the European currency.
The NBA’s collective bargaining agreement is currently configured to prevent players with less than four years of experience from earning maximum money, and the draft is particularly affected by the fact that the NBA Player’s Association is made up of current pro ballers, not yet undrafted kids, which skews all pay scales toward older, veteran players. Essentially, a player drafted in the lottery can expect a measure of financial security – the higher the better – while second round draft picks are often more free to explore options, but less liable to make big bucks. Today, late first round picks out of Europe generally refuse to report to their new NBA team, preferring to stay in the Spanish, Italian or Greek leagues for better remuneration and regard, while higher picks often make the trek and second rounders consider their options, as there are less restrictions on what they can be paid in the states.
What Childress represents is the increasing opportunities available for second tier stars – he was the Hawks’ sixth man last season – to be ‘the man’ overseas, experience a different lifestyle and secure their financial future. European team owners appear increasingly deep pocketed and the terms of this deal includes a clause allowing Childress to return to the NBA should a general manager come calling. The risk for a basketball player of a certain position is minimal and, for an increasing number, it’s worth a gamble. See: pocket rocket guard Earl Boykins, who’s earned a contract worth more than Childress’ from an Italian side; former Orlando Magic one guard Carlos Arroyo; Serbian big man Nenad Krstic; Spanish guard Juan Carlos Navarro; and about a half dozen further midlevel guys have hopped across the pond. And, if media reports drummed up the Childress defection, the rumour mills have been working overtime reporting on the possible signings of Chicago’s unhappy guard Ben Gordon and Phoenix’ athletic swingman Leandro Barbosa to European sides.
It is fitting that, after twenty years of European imports – from Drazen Petrovic and Vlade Divac to Dirk Nowitzki and Tony Parker – the continent is finally starting to take something back. Welcome to 2008, where the lure of the Euro happens.
15/08/08 web editorial words: handle magazine
ON THE LOCAL FRONT
With Olympic basketball dominating the headlines it is easy forget that not only is the NBL season mere weeks away, but there is an awful lot of activity on the local scene. Two contrasting news items that caught our attention were the relocation of the WNBL’s Christchurch Sirens and the new Fox Sports broadcast deal that was struck between Fox Sports and the NBL for the upcoming 2008/09 season.
Despite certain opinions that the NBL is currently on life-support, this announcement with Fox is an injection of life sorely needed. In a press release that was sent to us earlier today, the National Basketball League's extensive association with Australia's leading pay television sports broadcaster Fox Sports is set to continue. A new one-year deal will ensure that the NBL will continue to have a strong television presence in Australia through FOX SPORTS, extending a relationship that first began almost 15 years ago.
Scott Derwin, the interim Chief Executive Officer of the recently merged bodies of Basketball Australia and the NBL, said, “Expect to see the face of the NBL change considerably in season 2009/10. This new deal is a vote of confidence by Fox Sports in the future of our sport.”
Fox Sports Chief Executive Officer David Malone said, "The NBL is a popular programming choice with our subscribers and we see the basketball as an important part of our overall sports package. Basketball has made the difficult choice of undergoing some short-term pain for the long-term benefit of the sport as part of their commercial review, and we're excited about the future direction that has been mapped out. With a tighter 10-team competition this season, the NBL promises to be a thrilling spectacle in ‘08/09 and we're pleased to be the official broadcaster of the sport once again."
The agreement will see Fox cover at least one live game a week starting in October, as well as the ‘09 NBL Finals series. As per standard NBL policy, specific financial details of the commercial agreement cannot be disclosed. No word on whether the current but terrible commentary/broadcast of the game will continue.
On the WNBL front, the Christchurch Sirens have been removed from the 2008/09 WNBL season. An announcement was made that due to the last-minute withdrawal of one of their projected key sponsors, they were attempting to relocate to the New Zealand city of Wellington for their upcoming ‘08/09 campaign. Although this would have thrown the terms of their WNBL license out the window, Basketball Australia was willing to allow this move to take place but the appropriate financial and managerial structure could not be put in place at such short notice and the Sirens will subsequently not be allowed to participate this season. The new 2008/09 schedule, without the Sirens, is now being constructed.
13/08/08 web editorial words: todd spehr
IS SPAIN’S RUBIO THE REAL DEAL?
You’ve heard of 17-year old wunderkid Ricky Rubio, right? You’ve seen the grainy YouTube clips? Read Lang Whitaker’s feature piece in SLAM? Caught Jeff Fox’ and various other on-line posts about him? Researched the Spanish National Team in Beijing? Smiled like a giddy child at his 51points, 24boards, 7assists and 12 steals stat line that he dropped in the U-16 World Championships against Russia? You heard the name but is Ricky Rubio worth all the hype? Is he any different to the hordes of prospects that have been projected before him?
Word on the web is he’s got a little Pistol Pete in him, complete with Beatles-like mop of hair, flailing limbs and that ability to handle the ball like a yo-yo. It’s no mistake that Rubio evokes memories of the late, great Maravich and while claims that he’s the second coming of another Euro standout, the late Drazen Petrovic, those are lofty heights for the unproven Spanish talent. Given that both Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley claim that the Petrovic is the best European player to ever emerge from across the Atlantic, Rubio has more than his work cut for him. Like Petrovic, Rubio has inherited a cult-like following in his homeland where being a hoops prodigy just comes with the territory.
With his name already being thrown around with the best ever, it’s never going to be easy being Ricky Rubio. The skinny 6’4” guard has even caught whispers that his game contains shades of Magic’s. So will this Spanish playmaker be another once-in-a-generation NBA floor general? Will Rubio’s extraordinary game match his expected growing frame? Will he simply be the next Jason “White Chocolate” Williams, enduring the nightly battles of flash vs. control?
Despite being joined by proven NBA players Paul Gasol, Jose Calderon, and Juan Carlos Navarro on the Spanish National Team, it’s the flashy Rubio that has garnered most of the attention without even trying to look for it. Not legally old enough to drink alcohol, yet beaten with the hype stick, Rubio’s parents have denied most media requests until after he turns 18. Already a pro in Spain, he has gained priceless experience since the ripe old age of 14. More so, he has been afforded what no US collegiate athlete is entitled to, which gives him a clear advantage come NBA draft night. Sure, he’s part a guard-filled Spanish national team competing at the Summer Games, but it’s not like they’ve given him the keys to the car. Not yet, anyway. Stay tuned.
11/08/08 web editorial: words handle magazine
THE OLYMPICS: THE ROAD TO GOLD.
All the lead-up and those overly hyped exhibition games / pre-Olympic tournaments, they now count for jack. This one is for all the marbles. Over the next ten days we will see who is cut from the cloth of champions and who is left wondering what could have been. From the outset of the Games, namely the opening Ceremony, basketball couldn’t be avoided. Manu Ginobili (Argentina), Dirk Nowitzki (Germany), Sarunas Jasikevicius (Lithuania), Andrei Kirilenko (Russia) and Yao Ming (China) all followed in Andrew Gaze’s 2000 Olympic footsteps and carried the flag for their respective countries. Now that the Olympic competition is well and truly underway, welcome to handle’s exclusive coverage.
Part 1: The Importance Of A Hot Start.
No Prime Minister Kevin Rudd meeting and greeting the Opals doesn’t impress us, regardless of whether or not he rushed to the court after LJ and the girls easily beat Belarus 83-64 to open their Beijing gold medal quest. Belinda Snell told FIBA.com that “(Rudd) understands basketball. He wished us good luck for the tournament and we’re really happy that he came to the game.” Was Rudd at the WNBL Finals? No. All Rudd understands is that appearing on TV, looking like he is endorsing, in equal measure, all the athletes that bear his countries flag, is apt for good will. For the record, showing up to be photographed with the team does nothing for the game, it only relatively benefits your public relations and your photo album.
So hot starts are key. The Opals had one, but that was too be expected. What about Andrew Bogut, CJ Bruton and the Boomers? It borderlines futile to recap the Boomers opening round game against Croatia when local broadcast partner Channel 7 saw it fit to only show the third quarter of the match. They did a magnificent job of squeezing four commercial breaks in the quarter. Thanks 7. Now, we can all ignore Olympic basketball and purchase Samsung products. There is a finite number times one can see Leisel Jones's slo-mo walk in that Qantas ad. Or the other gem featuring home movies from various athletes to Queen's Don't Stop Me Now (Seeing a nine-year old Brad Newley drop a five-foot jumper in the backyard only works the first time).
Coming off arguably one of the best performances in Boomer history (that 11-point loss to the 'Redeem Team'), Goorjian's crew would have surely liked their chances against the Croats in the opener, a team they took care of pre-Olympics. However it wasn't to be with the Croatians blowing the Aussies out of the water with a constant barrage of triples all game and inspired half court offense that made the Boomers look second rate.
According to media reports, the Boomers blasted out of the gates hard and fast, dropping the first 7 points of the game on a Bruton trey and two paint buckets by Bogut. But it was downhill from there, with the Croatians finishing the quarter up 21-14. They eventually took the victory 97-82.
Led by captain Nikola Prkacin and Marko Banic who had 16 point apiece, the Croats also featured three other players in double figures. Matthew Nielson led the way for the Aussies with 13 points, with David Barlow and Bogut contributing 12 and 10 points respectively.
While the Croatians (12/16 3pt FGM) seems impressive, every shot (from what we caught in the third quarter), seemed to be wide open. Commentator Andrew Gaze kept harping on the fact that the Australians just weren't defending the ball handler well enough. It appeared the Boomers struggled matching it with the Croats in the half-court. Executing their offence flawlessly, making that extra pass and finding the open man on the perimeter it's hard to believe our defence could drop off so hard, so fact, after the game against the USA where it looked so tight.
Goorjian was quoted after the game as saying we were physically "man-handled" in the paint. Looking at the box score, Andrew Bogut and David Anderson combined for only 2 rebounds. How does that happen? Even if you have a bum ankle, if you're seven foot and the star of an NBA team, you need to assert yourself and collect more than one lowly board. And David Anderson is one of the best big-men playing in Europe. It is beyond belief but no doubt that they’ll all hear about it from Goorj.
Is there a chance the Boomers got caught up a little in their own hype following the performance against Team USA? When the best player on the planet (not named Paul Pierce) comes out and praises your game, stating that you're the toughest team they've played in their prep, it's hard not get a little giddy. Thanks Kobe Bryant. Is there an excuse? There is no chance Goorj didn't have the boys 100% focused and ready for this game. He knows exactly how important these Olympics are to basketball in this country and they would have been riled up like a pack of hungry pit bulls.
It's not all doom and gloom for the Boomers. Davis Barlow continues to show his fantastic international form, while Patty Mills is thriving at this level and Joe Ingles showed game in his limited burn. The offence is no longer the problem – we actually took five more shots than Croatia. Did the boys get good looks? Forced looks? Who knows? Channel 7?
Like the San Antonio Spurs vs. Phoenix Suns first round opener from this years NBA play-offs, the Olympics opened with a classic Lithuania vs. Argentina preliminary round match-up. Down double-digits in the fourth, Manu helped bring them back to level the scores it the final seconds. Manu (19 pts) then forced a bad shot, and Lithuanian Linas Kleiza (13 points) came down and nailed a three with 2.1 seconds left to steal the game 79-75. Argentina isn’t out of the medal race, but it’s still a an upset. Now they face Australia. If we end up in a 0-2 hole, this could get ugly with Russia and Lithuania to come. Elsewhere, Germany easily took care of Angola. Chris Kaman scored 24, Dirk had 23. Russia smacked Iran, AK-47 netted 15 points, five boards and three blocks, while the naturalised J.R. Holden put up 19 points. Spain took care of Greece. Rudy Fernandez led Spain with 16 points, Jose Calderon added 13 and Pau Gasol dropped 11points and collected seven boards.
The USA Men opened their Olympic play at the Wukesong Arena in Beijing, China with a convincing 101-70 win over the hosts China. Dwyane Wade's scored a game high 19 points on a perfect 7-for-7. Wade offered his thoughts following the game, "I'm glad we finally played. It feels like we've been waiting forever to play our first game here. Running out on the court here, feeling the crowd roar when we came out, the emotions that were everywhere, we're just glad to be a part of this game. China did a great job of playing very hard for their fans, too. I think the fans in China got a great show tonight."
It has been speculated that the China vs. USA game was most viewed televised basketball game, ever, with a TV audience in the billions. Even the leader of the free world, out going US President George W. Bush was on hand, like his man K-Rudd. LeBron James contributed 18 points and six rebounds, while Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard rounded out the USA's double-digit scorers with 13 points each. Whatever hot hand the Croatians caught against Australia, the USA lost in their opening, shooting a dismal 1 from 12 from behind the arc in the first half. Jason Kidd offered his opinion post game on the teams outside shooting woes, "we've been shooting the three alright, and I think we were just a little excited. Emotions were high.”
Dime magazine offered this gem about Team USA… Let us know when this starts to sound familiar: Team USA looked alright, they won by 30 , but if they play like that against Spain or Argentina they’re gonna get smoked. Sunday’s Olympic opener against China had all the symptoms of a typical 21st-century Team USA outing — a slow start marked by a bunch of missed jumpers, the opposition hitting a lot of deep J’s, the Americans unable to buy a three-pointer, but eventually the U.S. talent and depth proves too much.
The US blew the game open in the third and went on an 18-5 run to close out the quarter. That was the game. U.S. run that closed the third quarter with the U.S. up 74-48 and put the game firmly out of the host country's reach. Yao had 13 points, 10 boards, three blocks and managed to find his range, sticking a three. Yao was all shouts and National pride, he received a thunderous applause when leaving the game, despite the score.
As important as a hotter-than-Stephanie-Rice start is, dropping a game helps weeds out problems, can be written off as a fluke or may in fact settle the ship for remaining schedule. This was, after all, only game one of the Beijing campaign. As for the Boomers, they have shown the talent and toughness to match it with the best in the world but can they deliver? It doesn't get any easier with the next match against Argentina tomorrow night at 12:15pm (EST). Australia vs. Argentina – it should be a cracker, hopefully Channel 7 gives us the full look.
07/08/08 web editorial words: Josh Wong
CARRYING THE HOPES OF A NATION
It has been reported that Dirk Nowitzki will be Germany's flag-bearer at the opening ceremony, according to the German Olympic Committee. This follows on from Andrew Gaze, who carried the flag for Australia in 2000. The handle team predicts that international giant, and basketball standout, Yao Ming will lead the hopefuls from host China when they enter the birds nest. Dirk has copped flack for the selection because certain German’s believe that he does not represent one of Germany's traditional Olympic sports.
Dirk, who is competing in his first Olympics, at age 30, will be the first baller to carry the German flag at an Olympics, succeeding showjumper Ludger Beerbaum (2004), kayak canoe racer Birgit Fischer (2000) and fencer Arnd Schmitt (1996).
"Competing at an Olympic Games is something that has motivated me since the age of 11," Nowitzki told a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday. “On Friday (at the opening ceremony), I will experience something astonishing. I never thought I would be chosen to carry the flag but maybe it's happened because a lot of athletes identify with me. I loved my sport from the moment I played my first game and I still enjoy training."
The Dallas Mavericks forward teamed with Los Angeles Clippers centre Chris Kaman (who became a naturalised German citizen, thanks to his great-grandparents) to ensure Germany clinched the final qualifying Olympic spot. Dirk dropped 32 points, Kaman added 10 points with 12 boards, in the 96-82 victory over Puerto Rico back in July. Beijing is Germany’s first Olympic basketball tournament since Barcelona in 1992.
07/08/08 web editorial words: brad graham
NBA RELEASES THE 2008-09 SCHEDULE
If the Olympic Games (and the upcoming NBL season) weren’t enough, the NBA released their 08/09 broadcast schedule this week. If, like us, you need your daily basketball fix, and NBA hoops is your poison of choice, then start counting down the 80 or so days until the next NBA season commences. Here are a few early games that you can spotlight in your diary…
Tuesday, October 28th
The defending champions Boston Celtics open up their campaign LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. This contest will feature the championship ring ceremony for the Celtics.
Rookie Of The Year favourite Greg Oden and the Portland Trail Blazers visit reigning MVP Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers.
The 60 million dollar man Andrew Bogut. Michael Redd and the Milwaukee Bucks host number one pick Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls.
Wednesday, October 29th
Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming, Ron Artest and the Rockets debut at home against OJ Mayo, Rudy Gay and the Memphis Grizzlies.
The San Antonio Spurs host the Phoenix Suns. Double OT, again, anyone?
Baron Davis and the new-look Los Angeles Clippers host Kobe and the LA Lakers.
Second overall selection Michael Beasley and the rejuvenated Dwyane Wade take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Thursday, October 30th
Chris Paul, David West and the New Orleans Hornets head to Phoenix to match up against two-time MVP Steve Nash, Shaquille O’Neal and the Suns. Sounds like fun.
Friday, October 31st
No. 1 NBA draft pick Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls travel to Boston to take on the World Champion Celtics. Welcome to the NBA Derrick.
Greg Oden and his Portland Trail Blazers host Tim Duncan and San Antonio Spurs. Where the real first challenge for Oden happens.
Saturday, November 1st
The Detroit Pistons host the Washington Wizards. Rip vs. Caron, Chauncey vs. Agent Zero, Tayshaun vs. Jamison, we just can’t wait for this one.
Thursday, November 6th
Elton Brand leads the new-look Philadelphia 76ers into Orlando to battle Howard’s Magic. Powers in the paint will collide.
Saturday, November 15th
Monta Ellis and the Golden State Warriors face Baron Davis and the Clippers at Staples. What hostility?
Monday, December 22nd
Yao vs. Yi, Vol. III. Houston at New Jersey. The aptly dubbed Chinese Super Bowl with an estimated 200 million people tunning in. Need we say more?
Thursday, December 25th – Christmas Day
Superman Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic host CP3 and the Hornets. The future beacons at their brightest.
The Celtics travel to Staples Center to take on the LA Lakers. Don’t call it a comeback.
The Wizards travel to Cleveland to face King James and the Cavaliers. DeShawn Stephenson better keep quiet.
Friday, December 26th – Boxing day
The league’s top two picks in the 2008 Draft square off when Michael Beasley and the Miami Heat host Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls. Bragging rights anyone?
Monday, January 19th
The league’s two top scorers from last season go head-to-head when Kobe Bryant and the Lakers take on King James and the Cavaliers at Staples Center. Who will drop 50?
And as Austin Burton from Dime magazine pointed out, the first Chris Paul/Deron Williams head-to-head is January 7 in Utah but more importantly, starting December 13th, point guard Derrick Rose embarks on a six-game stretch that’ll have him going up against Devin Harris, Ray Felton, Baron Davis, Deron Williams and Chauncey Billups. Good luck with that one, son. Lastly, the 2009 NBA All-Star festivities are in Phoenix from February 13-15. The NBA All-Star Game is on Sunday, February. 15. The NBA Finals, tip off in June 2009.
Olympic Men's Basketball schedule- Australian games on free to air:
Sunday August 10- Australia vs Croatia, 10pm Channel 7
Wednesday August 13- Australia vs Argentina 12:15am Channel 7
Thursday August 14- Australia vs Iran 1:15pm Channel 7
Saturday August 16- Australia vs Russia 1:15pm Channel 7
Monday August 18- Australia vs Lithuania 1:15pm Channel 7
Finals begin Wednesday August 20.
06/08/08 web editorial words: brad graham
THE BOOMERS VS. THE REDEEM TEAM.
Leading up to this one off contest, Australia’s $60 million man, Andrew Bogut, was in doubt to face the powerhouse US side after a minor ankle injury in the Boomers’ disappointing loss to Argentina a few days prior. Commentators openly wondered if Australia was a one horse team and if Coach Brian Goorjian could put together a game play to compete against the studs of international play – especially without his name star. This is a man who’s the cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks franchise, facing the likes Team USAers Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard night in and night out. He’s also a player who’d just dropped 32 and 15 on Angola a few days before. And, as Bogut proved unable to run, the chasm he left behind was indeed gaping. He’s a solid and versatile front court presence and a consummate team player who is essential to any Boomers dreams of glory.
Still, the Qizhong Arena in Shanghai – which hosted the final US exhibition match against a Bogutless Aussie side – was far from the scene of a massacre. In fact, what transpired was simultaneously encouraging for fans of Australian basketball and moderately demoralising for the once and future Dream Team; Bogut sitting courtside meant that the US team was unable to truly test its paper thin front court before its first real Olympic battle against Yao Ming and his Chinese national team, but for Australia, the best is yet to come.
In Bogut’s absence, Goorjian started David Andersen at centre with David Barlow and Matthew Neilson at the forwards and Brad Newley and issue 018 cover athlete CJ Bruton at the point – three of whom once formed the core of the coach’s former Kings team. Barlow matched up on LeBron James and looked hardly out of place – a nice reminder that the NBL’s finest are world class – and Brad Newley face down Kobe Bryant. Mismatches are everything on the basketball courts – they drive strategy and expose weaknesses – and CJ Bruton immediately made an impact on that front against the US’ sharp shooting one guards.
One of the brightest spots for the Boomers was Patrick Mills – a handle coverboy and the future of the national team – who flew around the court like a dervish and made the best point guards in the world (Deron Williams and Chris Paul) look like flatfooted mannequins. If this were the only game Mills plays this winter, he’d still be a sure fire NBA prospect. Youthful mistakes from Australia, combined with intense pressure defence from its opposition, meant costly early turnovers and a loss of momentum. However, the US was shooting so poorly, and it’s guard play was so mediocre, that the Boomers hung close throughout the game, proving its ability to match up legitimately against any team on the planet, include the elite likes of Greece, Argentina, Spain and America. However, when poor decisions force an isolation match up (and a few too many Chris Anstey three pointers), the team looks less promising.
During the early phases, Team USA play sloppily and couldn’t connect on anything. If the squad had been able to lock down its open jumpers and free throw shots, the game could have easily gotten out of hand, which is hardly encouraging for the Boomers, especially after a disappointing match up against Argentina. The game was close, but hanging with a team is not the same as a win. Neither team was fresh – especially on outside jumpers – as usually consistent players like Glen Saville seemed rattled. Luckily, as Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant jacked up enough threes early in the game to let Australia into the game and, when the Boomers when bigger – Barlow at the two, Mark Worthington at small forward and Mills as the only true guard – the team looked tough, managed to control the glass and keep the US out of the key. Interestingly, American Coach Mike Krzyzewski often ran an atypical lineup that featured either Anthony or James at the centre position.
And when James was in the game, he made it abundantly clear that there are two types of basketball players in the world: the king and everyone else. Since he last matched up against Worthington – at the World Championships two years ago – James has already improved dramatically. Still, the local standouts are more than capable of holding their own, especially against an American team definitely off it’s A game. If the Boomers can catch, say, Argentina in similar position, it will allow itself sufficient opportunity to steal a game or two.
When Bruton matched up on Kobe Bryant – arguably the most popular basketball player, worldwide – he did what he always does in these situations: talked some smack. The chatter was good to see coming from someone actually putting up some numbers – less so from Chris Anstey, who got in LeBron James’ face with next to no provocation and even less performance.
At the half, the handle team talked about what a blessing it has been to have world class hoops during the NBA off season – summer leagues, streetball events and the local ABA are all fine options, but nothing compares to the world’s best doing their thing. It seems, however, that ESPN didn’t get the memo, as terribly clichéd commentary offered little more than echoes of Australia’s competitive nature and other platitudes. However, the men with the mics did get it right regarding the personal connection between Bruton and Mills, which gave some context to the international audience as to how they are able to play so well together as well as replacing one another on the court without animus or selfishness.
The third quarter was interesting, to say the least, as Barlow and Bruton dropped triples to get the half started right. Whatever Goorj was screaming about in the local room seemed to have sunk in and the Boomers came out strong and, for a quick run, the team controlled the tempo of the game, going on a blistering 15-5 run, reminding us all that the talent coming from our shores is more than sufficient to compete with NBA stars. Joe Ingles looked good out there in limited minutes and Barlow should almost certainly be on the NBA radar again. Mills is a rare talent and Newley has made massive strides toward helping his NBA rights go somewhere. For more on the Australian National team doing damage now and set to make noise in the future, check out issue 018 – on newsstands now. After early noise with James, Anstey settled down and nailed a tough three from the angle (after a couple dozen bad touches) and put in an awkward underhand lay up in the fourth to universal cringes from the crowd.
Troublingly, the Boomers only put in 29 in the first half – a miserable effort – and, while keeping it close, the Australian team never really threatened. When Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony or LeBron James turned on the gas, there was no chance. Early in the day, handle contributor Todd Spehr commented that Wade looked like his old All NBA self, and he did, indeed. Better, we caught a glimpse of a macho hug between fellow Bucks Bogut and Michael Redd, which was reminiscent of the embraces between Hedo Turkoglu (Turkey) and Dwight Howard of the Magic and Andrei Kirilenko (Russia) and Carlos Boozer of the Jazz in those exhibition friendlies.
The final score read 87-76, and the 11 point loss was a double edged sword. The Boomers did its country proud and a lot can be taken from the game. While not yet an elite power, Australia is rising and, outside of the lousy shots attempted over James by Shawn Redhage and Worthington, it was a careful, well coached game, as well. The Australian resilience was evident during late rallies and should help the team whether a legitimate storm against the always touch Croatia on Sunday. On the Opals front, in what was a possible (and dream) gold medal preview, the Australian women also went down to the US, but by a four. Penny Taylor dropped 19 points to top score for the Opals, and Lauren Jackson added 16 in a losing effort.
06/08/08 web editorial words: brad graham
TIMBERLAND EURO HIKER
For those of us who live in colder climates (we are looking at you Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania) these latest Timberland boots, the Euro Hikers, are for you. Recently brought to our attention, the handle team thought it was time you knew that these Euro-style hikers are a welcomed addition to your winter wardrobe. Featuring premium, full-grain leather with a durable padded collar for comfort, we also discovered these boots are rather lightweight, dispelling the common myths that all boots are cement blocks. The midsole, made of EVA, provides cushioning and shock absorption, which makes the boot durable and the rubber outsole provides superior traction and suitable protection. The interior textile lining ensures your feet remain dry when putting these boots through their paces, which, depending on where you live, may be the tipping point. Available in tasty names, White Asparagus and Butter Pecan, these Timbo’s retail for a touch under $200 and are worthy additions to your winter wear. For stockists call (03) 8878 3000.
05/08/08 web editorial words: handle magazine
NBL SEASON SET TO TIP-OFF SEPTEMBER 13
The 2008/09 NBL schedule was released today, with the new season tipping-off Saturday September 13. 22 rounds make up this seasons competition, with each team battling the other nine either three or four times. The NBL Finals format has been altered, following the departures of the Brisbane Bullets, Singapore Slingers and Sydney Kings. The opening game will see two early Finals favourites, the South Dragons and Cairns Taipans, battling in Cairns with their freshly acquired faces Mark Worthington, Ebi Ere and Dave Thomas, respectively. The season will conclude on Valentine’s day (Saturday, February 14) where couples will be treated to four matches, hopefully with Finals berths will be on the line. Specific Finals dates will also be released at a later date.
NBL interim Chief Executive Officer Chuck Harmison had this to say, “Whilst the process we have gone through for the drafting and redrafting of schedule this year has been the most challenging we have ever undertaken, we are ultimately very pleased with the overall outcome. One bonus in the new 10-team schedule is that we he have been able to add in an additional local derby in Victoria between archrivals, the South Dragons and Melbourne Tigers, as well as another clash between traditional foes Perth and Adelaide. We have maintained a 30-game schedule with the 15-home, 15-away format at the request of the vast majority of our clubs and open the season with a bumper split round over two weeks featuring all ten teams in action. The standard on the court will be higher than ever, with our teams having been able to strengthen significantly their rosters due to the League's contraction to 10 teams. That will ensure that fans will be able to continue to see truly world class players in action in what is widely regarded as one of the top five basketball leagues in the world. There is also the intense interest surrounding the anticipated debut of some fantastic new local players like the new Adelaide duo Luke Schenscher and Aaron Bruce that should help make this a truly memorable season for all the right reasons.”
NATHAN JAWAI NEEDS A NICKNAME… AND NO, AUSSIE / BABY “SHAQ” SIMPLY WON’T DO.
We all know that the latest Australian talent to emerge from this years NBA’s Draft was 21-year-old Northern Queensland (Banaga, near Cape York) big man Nathan Jawai who was nabbed with the 41st selection. The outright reigning NBL ROY forwent his potential Boomer campaign in Beijing to focus on NBA hoops, and more importantly, the NBA money to couples a guaranteed roster spot. As part of the trade that included former Indiana Pacer All-Star Jermaine O’Neal, Jawai was sent to Canada in the deal that saw T.J. Ford, Rasho Nesterovic and first round Centre Roy Hibbert dealt to Hoosiers country. Now, not only does Jawai stand as the first indigenous (Torres Strait) Australian ever drafted (and hopefully not the last), he has also secured himself a two-year-deal with Rap City that places him on the Raptors final 15 roster and sure fire money. Seen as a prospect, Jawai will now spend his training sessions battling Sam Mitchell’s All-Stars Jermaine O’Neal (when healthy) and current US Olympian, Eastern All-Star forward Chris Bosh. Toronto Raptors.com beat writer Mike Ulmer recently caught with Jawai, the following a here are a few of the highlights…
Mike Ulmer: You were the 41st player chosen in the draft. What were your thoughts about going where you went in the second round? Nathan Jawai: “Going in the second round and getting traded to Toronto was something I never knew would happen. I was happy that I did get traded here. I like the organization, Sam’s style of coaching. But getting drafted where I was kind of motivates me to work hard because I didn’t expect to drop that far. It’s funny. When I was drafted by Indiana, I couldn’t understand why because I didn’t work out for them but it’s all panned out really well, and I’m happy where I am right now.”
Mike Ulmer: People call you the Aussie Shaq or Baby Shaq. What do you think of that nickname? Nathan Jawai: “I really don’t like that nickname at all. He’s one of the best players in the league. I am not as big as him; I’m only six-foot-nine. I don’t weigh as much as him. We have a different style of game. The only reason people called me that was that I could dunk the ball really easy. It was a nickname people gave me. I didn’t like that nickname at all.”
STEVE NASH AND BARON DAVIS ARE ACTUALLY STEP BROTHERS
For those of us heavily into cinema culture – the in-house handle team also works on the national movie mag, FILMINK (www.filmink.com.au, check it out) – the upcoming comedy Step Brothers, starring Will Ferrell and John C Reilly, is an exciting proposition. Out locally on September 18, the movie looks like another Ferrell/Reilly instant-classic.
A movie trailer feature a pair of hilarious step brothers, instead of showcasing the goofy stylings of the aforementioned comedians, the clip showcases the lesser known skills of basketball superstars and all-around good guys Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns and movie-maker to be Baron Davis, the LA Clippers’ new franchise man.
Best of all, the video happily shows that NBA guys can have personalities too. Most of them are more likeable, less self-serious and funnier than we give them credit for, and none more so than Nasty Nash and Boom Dizzle. Oh, and they can dance, too.
When this clip surfaces a couple days ago, we laughed our arses off and decided that – god bless the internet – it should go live on the handle archives.
04/08/08 web editorial words: handle magazine image: mark Nolan
CJ BRUTON IS COLD HEARTED… BUT YOU KNEW THAT ALREADY, RIGHT?
When Australian big man Andrew Bogut was taken with the first overall pick in 2005 NBA Draft, many fans and experts questioned the Bucks selection, stating that collegiate standout Chris Paul or the University of Illinios’ Deron Williams, both members of the current US Redeem Team, should have been Milwaukee’s athlete of choice. While the US cooked the Turkey last night (thanks ESPN for giving the fans another excellent telecast) Bogut put on his own show in Nanjing, China, to the tune of 32 points and 11 boards in 30mins of action. Bogut posted 14 and 9 by the half but it was Glen Saville’s three, as time expired, that helped extent the halftime lead to seven, 42-35. Questions marked have remained over Bogut’s ability to rack up big numbers on the offensive end and last nights performance will hopefully end the speculation about the local talent’s prowess and the man of the new look Boomers. The game didn’t just belong to Bogut though as three time NBL Champion, and arguably one of the top three point guards to ever play in Australia, CJ Bruton drove a knife into the hearts of every Angolan fan with his buzzer beating long range bomb. The thrilling 81-78 victory over African champions Angola sends a message to the world that Australia can hang with anyone. Proving what most local hoop heads already knew. As he has done so many times on the NBL timber, Bruton hit nothing but net on the final attempt, finishing with 7 points and 5 dimes to led the way for the Australian backcourt. The interesting contrast between coaching strategies was on display during the Angola contest as Australia was able to exploit their size and bulk, something that was unlikely and unnecessary against China the night before. Now the challenge of mixing the post with the perimeter will be fully tested as the Boomers will face reigning Olympic champions Argentina in the FIBA Diamond Ball final who Bogut stated, “will be tough.” Brian Goorjian again started Bogut, Matthew Nielsen, David Barlow, Brad Newley, Bruton. Post game Goorjian, who had titled this National team the most talented he had seen since becoming Head Coach, spoke about Bogut’s performance., “He was dominant and was our answer to a lot of the difficulties we had on the court. That’s a real positive going into the Games.”
AUSTRALIA 81 – Andrew Bogut 32, Matthew Nielsen 9, Chris Anstey 8, ANGOLA 78 – Olimpio Cipriano 23, Eduardo Mingas 20, Joaquim Gomes 17
For those who missed the Fox Sports coverage, or didn’t take time to roll up to the Sydney Entertainment Centre, to catch the Australian Opals, minus Lauren Jackson (more on that in a minute) take care of business against the Brazilian National Team, the night before they departed for Beijing, you need not worry, the handle team was in attendance…and we have you covered.
Arriving while the Opals where on-court, jogging through their lite warn-ups, and the Brazilians were in the tunnel stretching and keeping this entertaining (from what we could gauge), reports cam through that Lauren Jackson would not be lacing up, despite being in the building, because of a minor ankle injury. The minor injury included a precautionary MRI that was diagnosed as an anterior impingement. So what does this mean to the Golden Girl? Rest and anti-inflamatories. Following the contest, Lauren told the handle team that this same injury prevented her from partaking in our scheduled portrait session a few days earlier. So when she says she is hurt and needs rest, who are we to argue?
The Brazilian fans showed up, rocking more noise than a Brandon Cowell film but were restricted to the upper tier, where they most of the SEC’s acoustics. Holding down the vocal fort, until the court side announcer had the 3,700 strong crowd cheering for the home team.
Australia got into the flow early, dictated the piece and ran their best impersonation of the Utah Jazz’ pick and roll to easy buckets. The southpaw Suzy Batkovic did damage at both ends, grading her share of boards and dropping paint buckets. Penny Taylor was clearly playing at a level above her peers, seemingly operating on both ends, at will. That well oiled World Championship winning team chemistry was on display at times, with exceptional offensive ball rotation that tired out the Brazilian bigs.
The Opals were up 34-27 after the first half and although the game did see more than a few turnovers on display, when they did put it together, the talent that handle has been writing about since issue one was evident. Belinda Snell, who was named the series MVP, was on top of her game like a Thundercat battling Mum-Ra. Kristi Harrower made an impact whenever she was on the timber, setting the tone and proving why she is a highly sought after point. Feeding the post and getting to the line was never a problem but it was the defensive pressure that led to easy fast break lay-ups, outlet passes, put backs and overall defensive lapses the South American parts that saw the score balloon out in the third before it was brought back to set an interesting fourth.
NBL Communications manager Marc Howard pointed out just how similar former Opals standout Rachel Sporn and current Opal stunner Laura Summerton are in terms of game, length and competitive intensity.
The usual suspects of Sydney based local basketball stars were all in the house, and while surfing for familiar faces in the crowd we discussed how the perspective differs from television to the actual viewing. This came following a text message that stated the game play looked boring and sloppy via a friend who was watching the action on Foxtel. Doing her part to excite the fans at home Lauren Jackson sat the entire third quarter with the broadcast headset on.
Erin Phillips looked effective at the offensive end but struggled at points on D when the Brazilians switched after a pick and roll. It became obvious that this will be one major concern for the trio of small point guards – Harrower, Bevilaqua and Phillips – come Beijing. The reserves did a nice job holding down the fort when Taylor was out of the game. Jenni Screen, Emma Randall and Hollie Grima all looked comfortable and played aggressively, which will be key for Jan Stirling come early August.
We did find it strange that the recruitment number for the armed forces was present on the back of the Opals bodysuits. We were liking the Opals body suits, and whoever says they aren’t good for the game is kidding themselves. Penny Taylor and co. are much more impressive court side than anything you would have seen through the idiot box. Hopefully next time they are in your town you can catch these world class, and hopefully soon to be crowned Gold-class athletes in action.
On the good looking tip, Brazilian back up point guard point Adriana Moises Pinto was not only easy on the eyes, but she was sporting a pink ribbon pair of Jordan’s. Good cause coupled with good looking – worth the price of admission alone. Speaking of sneakers, five of the Opals were rocking the Australian colourway Hyperdunks. (Check the latest issue of handle, 019, due out Wednesday September 3 for a full review and breakdown of the Australian colourway Hyperdunk that you will see both National teams, respectively, rocking in Beijing.)
Despite no LJ, the Opals swept their two-game series against Brazil. This one ended with a 85-62 victory over the world’s fourth ranked team. Suzy Batkovic top-scored with 17 points, while collecting six rebounds and six thefts. On the flip side, Martins Da Costa led the Brazilians with 16 points while Evangelista Dantas added 12. Jackson is expected to be fit to play when the FIBA Diamond Ball Tournament kicks off August 3 in Haining, China.
ON THE BOOMERS FRONT…
AUSTRALIA 67 - Chris Anstey 11, David Andersen 10, Andrew Bogut 9. CHINA 55 - Yao Ming 14, Li Nan 11, Shipeng Wang 8.
In Nanjing, China, during their first match at the FIBA Diamond Ball Tournament, the Boomers took care of business, defeating Olympic host nation China 67-55. It was reported that the Boomers overcame a few missteps in the fourth, when their 15point lead was reduced to just six, but managed to grab the W.
In a low scoring affair, a style that favours the Boomers, the 12point victory is a step in the right direction if medal success is possible. The presser stated the Australian D forced China into 23 turnovers. That ultimately meant Chinese bigs Yao Ming, Yi Jianlian and Wang Zhizhi were restricted and forced to play a limited role. China has always had a problem with guard play and given the physical nature of the international, the Boomers should, and did, chalk up this W. Chris Anstey top scored for the Australia team with 11 points. Andrew Bogut dropped 9 points and 8 boards.
Australia led 38-28 at the half but it was in the fourth, when tempers escalated into a scuffle and Nielsen received a technical foul. The Chinese then reduce the margin to six points. Anstey then hit a three-pointer and Worthington scored on a breakaway dunk. That handed back control of the game to the visitors and set up the much needed win.
Brian Goorjian started CJ Bruton, Brad Newley, David Barlow, Matthew Nielsen and Bogut and was happy with the win but mindful of the road ahead to Beijing…
"We were stuck in the mud offensively and we knew that would be the case. The big picture for us is we've got to get better and we've got to get better through these games. I was pleased, really pleased, with the defence we played and the contribution our three big guys made on the glass."
Australia faces Angola next and a win should see them in a playoff against reigning Olympic champions Argentina.
THE BEST IS YET TO COME.
