Crocs win big as Next Star leads the way

Cairns Taipans Next Star Luke Paul got off to a strong start at FIBA Under 17 World Cup in Turkiye, as Australia claimed a 22-point win over Serbia.

While their opening game rivals were considered one of the favourites for the tournament, the Australians took the lead midway through the first quarter and never looked back.

Paul finished with 11 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 2 steals in the victory.

The Crocs haven’t won a medal at the event since 2014, finishing no higher than sixth across their last six visits to the Under 17 World Cup.

Australia next takes on Côte d'Ivoire on Sunday evening at 7:30pm AEST, with the game available live on YouTube.

Australia 88 - Serbia 66

Stat leaders

Luke Paul (AUS): 11 PTS, 8 AST, 5 REB, 2 STL, 7-from-7 FT
John Aryang (AUS): 12 PTS, 11 REB, 2 BLK, 6-from-10 FG
Yahya Basaran (AUS): 15 PTS, 7 REB, 2 STL, 2 BLK, 7-from-9 FG
Andrew Watene (AUS): 12 PTS, 7 AST, 2 STL, 3-from-7 FG

Fixtures

Australia v Serbia - 9:45pm (AEST) Saturday, June 27
Côte d'Ivoire v Australia - 7:30pm (AEST) Sunday, June 28
Venezuela v Australia - 12:30am (AEST) Wednesday, July 1
Round of 16 - Time and opponent TBC, Wednesday, July 1