Boomers blow as Germany surges to 85-82 World Cup upset
Dennis Schroder led Germany to a narrow win over Australia in their Basketball World Cup group game. Photo: AP
Australia has let slip a final-quarter lead in a potentially costly basketball World Cup group stage loss to Germany.
Dennis Schroder starred in Germany’s 85-82 win in Okinawa on Sunday night, with the Los Angeles guard sparking a 10-point run to begin the final quarter in a rollicking contest.
Down by one, but with Josh Giddey off through the blood rule, Australia had potentially the final possession of the match.
But Patty Mills lost the ball attempting to drive to the rim.
Germany found an easy basket in response and Australia’s cries of a foul on Giddey, shooting a Hail Mary three-pointer, were waved away.
The loss leaves Australia 1-1 ahead of Tuesday’s clash with pool-stage hosts Japan.
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Victory there would likely put the Boomers through to the second round, although Sunday’s loss is costly given these results carry into the next stage.
Schroder (30 points, eight assists) toyed with Australia in the first half, although a fierce Brian Goorjian coaching address for the Boomers sparked some defensive stops after Germany surged ahead 8-0.
Mills (21 points, six assists, five rebounds) lifted too, bombing home the side’s first 13 points, and a Josh Green triple gave Australia its first lead late in the first quarter.
The Boomers’ 64 per cent shooting saved them in the first quarter, but again Schroder took control in the second term, and after he sank three free-throws they led by five at half-time.
Australia’s intent changed after the main break, swarming, switching defence, and forcing the ball out of Schroder’s hands.
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Centre Duop Reath came to life with two triples and a put-back slam and when Giddey soared to the rim Australia led again.
Dante Exum chipped in with seven third-quarter points, Xavier Cooks continued his strong defensive work and the Boomers led by four at the final break.
But Schroder, without star wing Franz Wagner (ankle), hit a three to kick-start Germany’s decisive run.
