Tuesday at 9pm AEST marks a watershed moment for Australia’s men’s basketball team, the BOOMERS, as they square off against host nation Japan in a must-win match on ESPN.
The outcome of this face-off will dictate whether Australia will keep their dreams of a FIBA Men’s World Cup medal alive or see those hopes perish.
The BOOMERS commenced their FIBA 2023 campaign on a high note, emerging victorious against Finland. However, the team suffered a setback during their second outing, succumbing to Germany in a closely fought battle that ended 85-82. This loss leaves Australia and Japan equally poised in the second spot of Group E, with Germany leading the pack.
It’s not just Australia feeling the pressure. Japan has also put up a formidable fight in the tournament, besting Finland 98-88. The imminent clash between Australia and Japan is now transformed into a high-stakes, winner-takes-all scenario, adding to the palpable tension and excitement surrounding the game.
A notable concern for the BOOMERS has been their sluggish starts in previous matches. This pattern of slow commencement simply cannot continue; the team has no room for error as they approach this crucial game, the fulcrum on which their future in the tournament turns.
While the BOOMERS versus Japan showdown is a hot ticket, ESPN’s coverage of the FIBA Men’s World Cup 2023 is chock-full of high-octane matchups. Of particular note is the USA-Greece encounter slated for 10.25pm AEST Monday. Both teams got off to flying starts with Greece defeating Jordan and the USA overcoming New Zealand, making their impending clash one to watch.
Australian basketball fans are in for an unparalleled treat as ESPN, ESPN2, and the ESPN App will provide live coverage of the entire tournament. Added to the mix is a dedicated “World Cup Live” wrap-up show, which will dissect the action and provide expert insights.
The BOOMERS are no strangers to the high-stakes atmosphere of FIBA World Cups. In 2019, they reached the semi-finals but were heartbreakingly edged out by Spain in overtime. The team is undeterred and is determined to make history by securing Australia’s first-ever medal in the event.
A boon for Aussie sports lovers, selected tournament games, including all BOOMERS and Team USA games, will be streamed for free on Kayo Freebies, a platform that doesn’t require a subscription. Viewers can access this service by downloading the Kayo Sports app or visiting the Kayo Freebies website. All that’s needed is to create an account, and no credit card information is required.
The commentary and analysis for ESPN’s FIBA 2023 coverage will be steered by a panel of experts, including Neroli Meadows, Andrew Gaze, Trevor Gleeson, John Casey, Bec Allen, Kane Pitman, and Olgun Uluc. Given that the tournament takes place in Australia’s time zone, primetime international basketball will be a daily occurrence, much to the delight of local fans.
In addition to live broadcasts, ESPN offers FIBA Minis and full game replays available On Demand. Those who are ESPN channel subscribers via Foxtel, Fetch TV, or SKY NZ can stream content through the ESPN App by entering their platform credentials.
However, it’s important to note that Kayo subscribers are not eligible to stream via the ESPN App or ESPN website.
