THE 2023 FIBA Men’s World Cup kicks off in just 18 days, and the Australian Boomers have already begun making their potential roster clearer ahead of the start date on August 25.

The countdown to the 2023 FIBA Men’s World Cup has begun, and the Australian Boomers are finalizing their potential roster for the upcoming tournament. With only 18 days left until the start date on August 25, the Boomers recently trimmed their initial 18-man squad to 15 players ahead of the warm-up games in Melbourne.

Unfortunately, NBL talents Keanu Pinder, Sam Froling, and Thon Maker were among the players cut prior to the warm-up matches. The selection process has become even more challenging this year as Australia boasts an abundance of talented big men from both domestic and international competitions.

Leading the charge for the final Boomers spots is NBL MVP Xavier Cooks, who also played ten games in the NBA with the Washington Wizards, emerging as a strong chance to make the final squad. Duop Reath, who also impressed with his stellar performance in the NBA Summer League, seems a lock to make the team now, being the only backup centre option remaining in the group.

Boomers coach Brian Goorjian expressed his disappointment to send Pinder, Froling and Maker home yesterday.

“This is an elite squad with so much talent, there is no easy way to make cuts, but the reality is that we only get to take 12 into Okinawa. Would I take all of these players if I could? Absolutely, but that’s the hardest part of sport. You have to make the cuts, we have to keep moving forward,” said Goorjian.

“I have the utmost respect for Sam, Thon and Keanu and their contribution here in Cairns, their work rate has been exceptional. On and off court they have demonstrated the highest level of professionalism.

“They are the best in the field for a reason and of course I’m disappointed that they can’t come through with us, but they all respect the process and came into the camp understanding what we are all here to achieve.”

The upcoming trio of warm-up matches against Venezuela, Brazil, and South Sudan will serve as a final test for the squad and aid the selection committee in making the crucial decision for the final roster.

The extended roster boasts a wealth of talent, making the selection process even more challenging. With the final cut looming, the Boomers are determined to field one of the most talented lineups they’ve seen in decades.

The current 15 players on the roster are vying for the coveted 12 spots to represent Australia at the 2023 FIBA Men’s World Cup.

Australian Boomers Extended Squad:

1. Xavier Cooks
2. Dyson Daniels
3. Matthew Dellavedova
4. Dante Exum
5. Josh Giddey
6. Chris Goulding
7. Josh Green
8. Joe Ingles
9. Nick Kay
10. Jock Landale
11. Will McDowell-White
12. Patty Mills
13. Duop Reath
14. Matisse Thybulle
15. Jack White

Dan Boyce (811 Posts)

Dan Boyce is a die-hard Sydney Kings fan who grew up in Melbourne during the roaring 90's of Australian Basketball and spent far too much time collecting Futera NBL Basketball cards.