AUS – Molloy’s Aussies ready to rumble

HAMBURG (FIBA U17 World Championship) - Australia are in Hamburg champing at the bit to start playing games at the FIBA U17 World Championship.

Coach Guy Molloy finalized his 12-man roster before leaving Down Under for Europe and the team has had some excellent opportunities to prepare for the competition by playing the likes of Serbia, and the youth teams of clubs in Hamburg.

The more high-profile games came against the Serbians, who will also play in Hamburg.

The Aussies fell to Serbia 66-55 in New Becej and then slipped to a 63-57 defeat in the second friendly.

Serbia pulled away for a small lead, 15-13 at the first break, before the Australians fought back to take a 34-28 lead at half-time.

Australia led at half-time in that second game but were then outscored 23-6 in the third quarter before mounting a comeback that came up short.

The Australian team now travels to Germany for some final friendly games before the World Championship on July 2.

One of the players Molloy is expecting big things from is Phil Chircu, a 2.02m power forward/center.

“Phil is a multi-skilled player," Molloy said. "He’s a very good passer, defender, and active rebounder.

"Along with (Daniel) Carlin, he was an important part of the squad that qualified for the Championships.

"He is an exceptionally good player at the top of our defense when we press.”

Another Aussie that is going to stand out in a big way in Hamburg is Andrija Dumovic, a 2.05m center.

“Andrija is our biggest player, a good rebounder and screener, which is understandable considering his size," Molloy said.

"He’s definitely an intimidating presence on the court.”

A pair of forwards, Sam Gilmore and Owen Odigie, could also end up taking Hamburg by storm.

Gilmore, a top-class defensive player and rebounder, played a vital role for Australia in qualifying.

As for Odigie, Molloy called him one of the most exciting players in the squad;

“The best pure athlete on our team, he’s just a real physical specimen," Molloy said.

"Owen is terrific in the open court, and an exciting player to watch.

"He’s very strong getting to the basket, as well as a really good defensive player.”

Australia will compete in Group B in Hamburg against Poland, Canada, Korea, Spain and hosts Germany.

Australia squad: Daniel Carlin, Phil Chircu, Ashley Constable, Tom Downie, Andrija Dumovic, Taylor Dyson, Jarrod Fryar, Sam Gilmore, Daniel Hill, Mitch Norton, Owen Odigie and Cory Richardson.

FIBA