Paris Olympics 2024: Boomers team tracker, who will secure the final spots in Australia’s squad?
The majority of Australia’s 12-player squad for the Olympics seems locked in - but there are spots up for grabs in Brian Goorjian’s Boomers squad. Our experts investigate those in contention.
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An NBA experienced Boomers star may not make the final squad for this year’s Olympics as the Australians face the prospect of a date against the Greek Freak, Giannis Antetokounmpo in Paris.
The majority of coach Brian Goorjian’s roster for the Games appears locked in, barring a few key selection battles that look to be decided after the team’s Melbourne-based camp and warm-games against China.
Goorjian has a tough decision choosing between rising guard Dyson Daniels and veteran Matthew Dellavedova, while the strong competition in the forward position means a quality player will miss out on Olympic selection.
Veteran swingman Joe Ingles is aiming for his fifth Olympics in Paris, but he faces plenty of competition to make the squad in Xavier Cooks, Nick Kay, Jack White and Jack McVeigh.
It comes as the Boomers have been named in Group A alongside Canada and the winner of two qualifying tournaments from July 2.
Spain is favoured to win its qualifying event against Angola, Finland, Lebanon, Poland and the Bahamas.
Slovenia and Greece are expected to battle it out for the last position in Group A.
The Greeks have received a major boost for the qualifying tournament, with NBA superstar Antetokounmpo making himself eligible for the event.
The Milwaukee Bucks gun returns for his country after missing this year's NBA playoffs with a calf injury.
Antetokounmpo’s inclusion is significant for Greece, who appear on a collision course with Slovenia for an Olympic position.
It’s unknown if Dallas star Luka Doncic will play in the qualifying tournament following his NBA Finals commitments with the Mavericks.
Regardless, the Boomers face an almighty task to finish in the top three in their pool to qualify for the second round in Paris.
Who makes Brian Goorjian’s final 12-man squad? We analyse the contenders - from the locks, to those on the cusp of selection... and who is under pressure to make the final cut.
■ Everything you need to know about Boomers, Opals in Paris
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Originally published as Paris Olympics 2024: Boomers team tracker, who will secure the final spots in Australia’s squad?
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