Australia has qualified in 12 of the past 13 World Cup tournaments, establishing themselves as an international powerhouse over the past two decades. The Round of 16 has proved to be a major hurdle for the Australians, losing in three of the past four World Cups during this stage. With 11 roster spots occupied by NBA players, the Aussies hope to avenge their semifinal defeat to eventual champion Spain back in 2019 this year.
Active NBA Players
- Xavier Cooks (Washington Wizards)
- Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans)
- Dante Exum (Dallas Mavericks)
- Josh Giddey (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Josh Green (Dallas Mavericks)
- Joe Ingles (Orlando Magic)
- Jock Landale (Houston Rockets)
- Patty Mills (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Matisse Thybulle (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Jack White (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Coach: Brian Goorjian
What to Watch
Three OKC Thunder players are on this national team roster. World Cup play is a great stage for promising young talent to take the leap to stardom. Expect this to be the case from 20-year-old Josh Giddey as Australia will be the favorites to make it out of this group and pose the biggest challenge to Team USA.
Group Play Schedule
- Aug. 25: Australia vs. Finland (4 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 27: Australia vs. Germany (4:30 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 29: Australia vs. Japan (7:10 a.m. ET)
