Joel Khalu’s dream run rolls on with FIBA Under-19 World Cup call up for Australian Emus

A Cairns clipboard wizard’s amazing big-game winning streak will be tested when Australia’s best young men’s hoopers shoot for gold at the FIBA Under-19 World Cup this month in Switzerland.

Cairn Basketball product Joel Khalu has been selected as assistant coach for the Australian Emus at the FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup, to be held in Lausanne, Switzerland from June 28 to July 6. Picture: Brendan Radke

A Cairns clipboard wizard’s amazing big-game winning streak will be tested when Australia’s best young men’s hoopers shoot for gold at the FIBA Under-19 World Cup this month in Switzerland.

Joel Khalu will return to the sidelines as an assistant coach for the Emus in Lausanne fresh off a grand final victory with the Illawarra Hawks over Melbourne United in March.

The Illawarra Hawks defeated Melbourne United to claim the NBL championship in March. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

But Khalu’s success goes beyond the nation’s top domestic competition with the former Cairns Marlins’ sharpshooter leading the Mackay Meteors to an NBL1 North championship last August.

A month later, he helped guide the Aussies home as an assistant at the FIBA Under-18 Asia Cup in Jordan.

Emus guard Dash Daniels is expected to play a key role for the Aussies in Switzerland. Picture: Taylor Earnshaw

The Emus, currently ranked seventh in the world, will have their work cut out for them with the top-ranked USA and an emerging French team both in their pool, alongside Cameroon.

“We certainly have the talent to be competitive,” Khalu, 44, said.

“But we’re staying grounded. Tournament play can be unpredictable, so our focus is on preparation, discipline and being ready for the unique challenges each opponent presents.

“Opening against the USA will be a great test and give us a clear indication of where we stand.”

Joel Khalu was a lynchpin for the Cairns Marlins during his playing career.

Following the tournament, Khalu will return to the Hawks, having opted not to apply for the Taipans top coaching job during the off-season despite Aussie hoops analysts considering him a strong contender for the role.

The position was briefly left vacant before Snakes’ head coach Adam Forde eventually chose to stay with the club for NBL26.

“It’s a great situation for me with the Hawks and working with (head coach) JT (Justin Tatum) right now,” Khalu said.

“He gives me a lot of freedom and flexibility to collaborate. During the finals run the coaching cohort all bought in, so I’m really excited about the year ahead.”

The tournament starts June 28.

Brisbane Bullets big man Rocco Zikarsky has been named to represent Australia at the FIBA Under-19 World Cup. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

U19 Men’s Basketball World Cup Team: Emmett Adair, Che Brogan, Alex Dickeson, Dash Daniels, Luke Fennell, Jacob Furphy, Mading Kuany, Ajak Nyuon, Roman Siulepa, Nash Walker, Jack Whitbourn, Rocco Zikarsky.

Coaches: Robbie McKinlay (head coach), Joel Khalu, Jacob Jackomas.

Originally published as Joel Khalu’s dream run rolls on with FIBA Under-19 World Cup call up for Australian Emus