Boomers coach rejects ‘unbeatable’ tag

Australian coach Adam Caporn has downplayed talk of his team being “unbeatable” as the Boomers edge closer to another FIBA Asia Cup Final.

On Wednesday night, the Boomers overcame the Philippines to secure their Semi-Final berth against Iran. A win on Saturday would see them advance to the Final against one of China, Korea, New Zealand or Lebanon.

>> Game Report: Boomers through to Semis at Asia Cup

With victories over both Korea and Lebanon already in the group stages, the Boomers head into the tournament’s closing days confident, but mindful of the quality of their opponents.

“No one’s unbeatable and there’s a lot of very good teams in this tournament,” Caporn said after the win over the Philippines.

“No one’s unbeatable … we’re humble enough to know that.

“The Semi-Final and Final we expect to be very difficult games.”

Australia delivered one of its most polished performances of the tournament on Wednesday night, opening with a dominant 29-12 first quarter, fuelled by a shooting clinic from Jaylin Galloway.

Even so, Caporn took greater pride in the Boomers’ defensive effort.

“I’m really proud of how we defended and rebounded for the game, to keep them (the Philippines) to 60,” he said.

“We were under siege at different moments, but just rallied on the defensive end and had great efforts on the boards, led by Will (Magnay).

“I’m really, really happy with that and that’s where we’re trying to be about.

“We had a very good start. Our defence in the first quarter was very good, and we made threes.

“Our grit and poise kept it (after that).”

Magnay noted that the Boomers’ quick starts were giving them a strong platform for success.

“We’re starting on point and the combination of size and athleticism of our starting point and our ability to run in transition can catch teams off guard,” he said.

“We’re getting good looks early and we’ve got a good amount of resilience to catch their runs early and kill them.”

Australia faces Iran on Saturday, with the game time yet to be confirmed.

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