Gallant Aussies go down to Team USA

The Australian men’s basketball team have finished their London campaign with a gallant effort against the mighty Team USA, going down 119-86 this morning.

In an impressive showing, the Aussie men went blow-for-blow with the star-studded Team USA squad for three-and-half quarters before a late blowout inflated the final margin.

Australia sent shockwaves through the USA camp early in the third quarter, going on an 11-3 run to be within one basket of the lead, before a string of three-pointers from Team USA late on ensured victory.

Star guard Patty Mills finished with a game-high 26 points, while rising star Joe Ingles ensured his breakout tournament ended on a high note with 19 points, eight rebounds and six assists.

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Officer Kristina Keneally said the men’s team had been brilliant Australian representatives in London.

“The guys played with grit and determination, doing all Australians proud in a very tough match against the US Dream Team this morning,” Ms Keneally said.

“Having our men’s national team finish in the top eight In the world is a phenomenal achievement. In fact, there’s every possibility that their international ranking will improve as a result of their performance over the last two weeks.

“Finishing in the top eight is even more remarkable for a country of Australia’s size when you consider that over 450 million people play basketball globally and 213 countries participate in FIBA competition.

“Out of those 213 countries playing basketball, only five nations have both men’s and women’s teams which reach the Quarterfinals at the Games – and one of those is Australia.

“Our Australian men have shown in London that they won’t shy away from any challenge – they can absolutely hold their heads high after this morning’s sterling effort.”

The Australian women’s team will be out for revenge as they face the Team USA women in Semi Final action at 2:00am (AEST) Friday morning.

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