Perfect Boomers outfit rules Asia

AUSTRALIA is turning its attention to the 2019 World Cup after a second-string Boomers side was crowned Asian basketball champion in Lebanon.

Australia, ranked 10th in the world, accounted for Iran 79-56 in the Asia Cup final in Beirut Sunday night to win the tournament in its first appearance.

Veteran forward Brad Newley led the Boomers with 18 points, while centre Daniel Kickert starred with 14 points and six rebounds to help see off world No.25 Iran.

Australia took a four-point lead into the first break after running to an early 12-2 buffer.

But it never looked back following a 25-12 second quarter.

Former Memphis Grizzlies centre Hamed Haddadi, the tournament’s most valuable player, scored 18 points for Iran.

Australia, made up of NBL players with overseas stars unavailable, went through the Asia Cup undefeated.

The Andrej Lemaniscoached outfit was seldom troubled, winning its six games by an average 29 points.

It was done without star big man David Anderson, with the four-time Olympian injuring his shoulder in a lead-up game.

“I’m really proud of the way the group developed over the course of the tournament,” Lemanis told RSN radio.

“They showed improvement every game and ended up coming away with the title.”

Despite their dominance, no Boomers were named in the tournament’s All-Star five.

Australia will next turn its attention to the 2019 World Cup in China, with Asian qualification to begin in November.

“Being our first time in the Asia Cup, it’s been a great learning experience,” Lemanis said.

“We had a frustrating Olympic campaign in 2016 but looking forward to moving forward with the group to see what we can get done.

“Come World Cup year in 2019, the reality is not every NBA player will be available. There will be spots available and this is an opportunity for guys to put their hand up.”

South Korea defeated New Zealand 80-71 to claim third place.