Boomers go to the wire against Greece

The Australian Boomers have lost a cliffhanger to Greece 69-72 in the third game of the 2006 FIBA World Championship in Japan.

Andrew Bogut top scored for Australia with 18 points. He was supported by C.J. Bruton and David Barlow, who each scored 11 points.

Dimitris Diamantidis scored 20 points to lead Greece.

Australia took an early 17-10 lead but Greece came back to tie the scores at the end the first period.

Greece then took the lead but Australia fought back to be within two points. A three-pointer on the half time buzzer had Greece bouncing into the main break up by five, 34-39.

Australia again rallied, taking the third period 22-16. They entered the final quarter up by one, 56-55.

A tense, low scoring fourth quarter ensued before Andrew Bogut hit a late 3-pointer to spur Australia to the precipice of a stunning upset.

But the European champions responded with two 3-pointers in the final 10 seconds to take out the victory.

No injuries were reported.

Match Details:

GREECE 72 – Diamantidis 20, Papadopoulos 12, Papaloukas 11

AUSTRALIA 69 – Bogut 18, Bruton 11, Barlow 11, Mackinnon 10

The Boomers take on Lithuania in their next match on Wednesday afternoon.