Gloucester born, Olympic basketball player, Damian Martin shows off his defensive ability against the top American players.
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The Australian Boomers took to court, this morning local time, ready to play; not intimated by the USA Dream Team.
The Boomers were trailing slighting in the first quarter but managed bring it back to tie at 29 a piece.
Forceful defence by the Boomers made it difficult for the world number one team to get to the hoop. With most points sunk by USA long range shots from outside the three point line.
Australia took the lead around the six minute mark in the second quarter.
Damian Martin came off the bench late in the second. His strong defence resulted in a steal that got the ball to Patty Mills. Martin certainly made the most of the short time he had on court.
Boomers held their lead at the end of the first half, 54 – 49.
USA came back with a vengeance in the second levelling the score shortly after returning to the court. Australia struggled to convert until six minutes into the third.
After fighting through the third, Australia could not hold on and USA pulled ahead 70–67.
Boomers levelled and toook the lead within the first minute of the fourth quarter.
Unfortunately, fatigue took its toll on the Boomers in the last half of the fourth quarter with USA dominating play; widening their lead.
In an intense last few minutes, Australia dug deep to fight back. They gain possession with seconds left and only five points behind. But with fouls and penalty shots called in favour of the USA, the gap widens and time runs out. The fierce battle between the two teams ends with a final score of 98-88 to the US.
The Boomers may not have won, but they have definitely proven they are medal contenders at the Rio Olympics 2016.
The Boomers next game is against China Saturday, August 13 at 3:15am (AEST).