'Aussie Bryce' headlines Boomers' Qualifiers squad

Six-time NBL MVP Bryce Cotton headlines the Australian Boomers squad for July’s FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Perth.

Cotton, who will make his long-awaited Boomers debut during the two RAC Arena games, is one of eight NBL players named in Adam Caporn’s 12-man squad.

Joining the Adelaide star in the squad will be Tasmania’s Taran Armstrong and Josh Bannan, Perth’s Ben Henshall and Elijah Pepper, Cairns’ Jack McVeigh, South East Melbourne’s Angus Glover and Illawarra’s Wani Swaka Lo Buluk.

Rounding out the side are Cleveland Cavaliers’ Tyrese Proctor, University of Florida’s Alex Condon and former NBL stars Mitch Creek and Keanu Pinder, with the latter being reported to be eyeing a return with the Cairns Taipans.

Caporn said he will utilise his NBA off-season availability to signal a heightened level of intent for the group in camp and fixtures.

“Competing as a Boomer on Australian soil is always special, and there’s a real excitement around this group and the opportunity to play in Perth in front of such a passionate basketball community,” Caporn said.

“As we continue building towards Qatar 2027, we’ve brought together a strong mix of experience, emerging talent and athletes earning their first opportunity with the Boomers, which makes this window particularly exciting.

“The FIBA qualifiers are critically important for our program, and we’re approaching this camp and these games with great intent.

“We’re looking to continue developing our systems, strengthen the connections within the group and represent Australia with pride and competitiveness.”

During this window, the Boomers will host Guam on July 3 and the Philippines on July 6.

“Every camp and game gives us an opportunity to build greater cohesion, establish habits and continue strengthening the identity we want the Boomers to represent,” Caporn said.

“We know Perth fans will bring incredible energy at RAC Arena and our group is excited for the chance to compete in front of them and represent Australia the right way.”

The Boomers currently sit in first place in Group A, having won all four of their Qualifiers to date.

Australian Boomers squad

Taran Armstrong
Josh Bannan
Bryce Cotton
Alex Condon
Mitch Creek
Angus Glover
Ben Henshall
Jack McVeigh
Elijah Pepper
Keanu Pinder
Tyrese Proctor
Wani Swaka Lo Buluk