NATE JAWAI BROUGHT INTO AUSTRALIAN BOOMERS TEAM FOR FIFTH WINDOW OF FIBA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

Having injured his ankle earlier this month, Brandt was given time to recover but the Boomers coaching staff have made the difficult decision to bring in Jawai as his replacement.

“It’s very unfortunate for Angus that he won’t be ready in time to compete in this window,” said Boomers coach Andrej Lemanis.

“I appreciate how much he relishes playing for Australia and how much it hurt him having to give up his position on the team.

“But I am thrilled for Nate that he once again gets the opportunity to wear the green and gold. I know how much it means to him to play for his country.

“His inclusion is yet another example of how fortunate we are to not only have the depth of talent we have, but also the attitude the athletes have in playing for their country if and when called upon.

“Nate’s response when I called him was one of genuine excitement and pride to again be wearing the Boomers uniform. He has had a wonderful NBL season so far and his inclusion in to the 12 is recognition of that.”

Jawai has previously represented the Boomers at the 2009 FIBA Oceania Championships and at the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain where he averaged 4.4 points and three rebounds per game.

An imposing presence in the paint, Jawai could play a crucial role against Iran following a physical battle between the team’s front court’s when they last met in the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup gold medal game.

The fifth window of qualifiers will see Australia return to Margaret Court Arena where they defeated the Philippines and Chinese Taipei in February earlier this year.

“Playing in front of our home fans is always such a special buzz and proud moment for everyone involved in the team – there is no better feeling in sport,” said Lemanis.

“Hopefully we can pack out Margaret Court Arena and make it a truly wonderful atmosphere for both games,” said Lemanis.

Tickets are now on sale via Ticketek for both FIBA World Cup qualifiers here.

The Australian Boomers team for the fifth window of FIBA World Cup qualifiers:

The Australian Boomers Schedule for the second round of FIBA World Cup qualifiers (all times AEDT):

Fourth Window:
September 14: Australia def. Qatar (95-43)
September 17: Australia def. Kazakhstan (94-41)
Fifth Window:
November 30: Australia vs. Iran at Margaret Court Arena at 7.30pm
December 3: Australia vs. Qatar at Margaret Court Arena at 7.30pm
Sixth Window:
February 21: Australia at Kazakhstan. Time TBA.
February 24: Australia at Iran. Time TBA.

The post NATE JAWAI BROUGHT INTO AUSTRALIAN BOOMERS TEAM FOR FIFTH WINDOW OF FIBA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS appeared first on Basketball Australia.

One change has been made to the Australian Boomers team for the fifth window of FIBA World Cup qualifiers with Nate Jawai (Cairns Taipans) brought in to replace Angus Brandt (Perth Wildcats).

The post NATE JAWAI BROUGHT INTO AUSTRALIAN BOOMERS TEAM FOR FIFTH WINDOW OF FIBA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS appeared first on Basketball Australia.