Matisse Thybulle was one of the standouts for the Boomers. Picture: @LaurenMRosen via Twitter
Australia’s undefeated record at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games continued on Tuesday night as the Boomers scored an impressive 97-59 victory over Argentina. For all your Tokyo 2020 coverage, make sure to visit The Inner Sanctum’s Olympic hub and the Olympics Central.
First Quarter – Argentina capitalise on Aussie Errors
It was a scrappy start for Australia, who trailed by eight points late in the first quarter before narrowing the margin to just four points at the first break.
The Aussies struggled to maintain control of the ball, conceding seven points directly from turnovers while also allowing Argentina to get to the rim fair too easily, allowing them score ten of their 22 points in the paint.
Second Quarter – Boomers back sharply
After an error-riddled opening quarter, Matisse Thybulle got the Aussies off to the perfect start, nailing a three pointer to change the momentum of the match. Not just contributing at the scoring end, Thybulle’s three first half steals help set the tone for the Aussies on the defensive side of the ball.
The Aussies did not concede a single point from turnovers in the second quarter, and a 21-11 period ensured the green and gold took a six point advantage into the half time break.
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Third Quarter – Boomers begin to pull away
Both teams traded baskets to start the quarter, but was the Aussies who were able to keep their composure as the pressure rose. Mills in particular lifted his defensive output, keeping multiple possessions alive through hustle alone.
Superior play on both sides of the ball saw the Australians stretch the lead out to a game-high 12 points at end of the third quarter, but the game was far from over heading into the final period of play.
Fourth Quarter – On to the Americans as the Aussies close out in style
It was a stunning last quarter by the Boomers, who went on a 19-0 last quarter run to put the result beyond question. Argentina could not buy a bucket in the last, as the Australians ran rampant on both sides of the ball, not allowing their opponents to score for six minutes of the last quarter.
In what is the perfect lead in game heading towards a crunch semi-final showdown against the USA, the Boomers ran out 97-59 winners.
Australia v Argentina – Key Performers
It was no surprise to see Patty Mills again leading the way for the Boomers. The team captain was in double figures before half time and finished with a game-high 18 points.
Dante Exum delivered what could have been his best ever performance in green and gold. The former fifth overall draft pick was back to his explosive best on offense, rising for dunks and gliding past defenders with athletic ease.
Thybulle, Ingles, Landale and Kay all took turns stepping up for the Aussies when required, with all four players hitting double figures.
Who do the Boomers play next?
The Boomers will now face the USA for a place in the Olympic Games final. The American’s easily accounted for Spain 95-81 in an ominous performance by the Gold Medal favourites.
If the Boomers overcome the Americans, it will ensure Australia will win its first ever men’s basketball Olympic medal.
The Boomers play America on Thursday for a place in the Olympic Games final.
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