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2023 FIBA World Cup: Josh Giddey dominates in Australia’s 98-72 win over Finland

clemente almanza
·4 min read

Overcoming a slow start, Australia enjoyed a blowout win in their first group game against Finland, 98-72.

Australia kicks off their Group E play with a strong start and sits at 1-0.

The Boomers started off lethargic as they quickly trailed 21-17 following the first quarter. A 28-19 second-quarter scoring advantage helped shift the tide toward Australia. By the start of the fourth quarter, it was essentially garbage time as Australia entered the final frame with a 16-point lead.

Josh Giddey had a strong FIBA debut for Australia with a near triple-double of 14 points on 4-of-10 shooting, nine rebounds and eight assists in 25 minutes. He continues to make foul shooting a reliable skill by going 6-of-7 from the free-throw line.

Off the bench, Jack White also had a nice showing. In 15 minutes, he had seven points on 3-of-4 shooting and two rebounds — this included a pair of assisted dunks from Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Giddey. He also had a few impressive defensive possessions on Finland’s Lauri Markkanen, where he struggled to create space between the two.

Let’s look at instant reactions and highlights from Australia’s 26-point win over Finland.

Story originally appeared on Thunder Wire