Boomers win Asia Cup at first attempt in Lebanon

Australia will turn their attention to the 2019 World Cup after a second-string Boomers won the Asia Cup.

The Boomers celebrate with the championship trophy following their 79-56 win against Iran in the final of the FIBA Asia Basketball Cup in Lebanon.

Australia are set to turn their attention to the 2019 World Cup after a second-string Boomers were crowned Asian champions in Lebanon.

Australia, ranked 10th in the world, accounted for Iran 79-56 in the Asia Cup final in Beirut on Sunday to win the tournament in their first appearance. The Boomers were led by veteran forward Brad Newley with 18 points, while centre Daniel Kickert starred with 14 points and six rebounds to help see off Iran, the world No 25.

Australia took a four-point lead into the first break after running out to an early 12-2 buffer.

But they never looked back following a 25-12 second quarter, with Mitch Creek scoring 12 points to cap off a strong campaign.

Australia, with a squad drawn from the NBL with overseas-based players unavailable, went through the Asia Cup undefeated.

“I’m really proud of the way the group developed over the course of the tournament,” coach Andrej Lemanis said.

“They showed improvement every game and ended up with the title.”

Australia’s next focus is reaching the World Cup in China in 2019, with Asian qualification to begin in November. “Being our first time in the Asia Cup, it’s been a great learning experience,” Lemanis said. “We had a frustrating Olympic campaign in 2016 but looking forward to moving forward with the group to see what we can get done.

“Come World Cup year in 2019, the reality is not every NBA player will be available. There will be spots available and this is an opportunity for guys to put their hand up.”

AAP