Team Australia — the lone team featuring a Washington Wizards player on their roster in the 2023 FIBA World Cup — won their opening contest 98-72 against Finland on Friday.
The Boomers largely struggled in the first quarter, as Finland’s size and rim protection posed a huge problem in the early stages. Xavier Cooks first checked in at the 5:54 mark and had 2 of Australia’s 6 total field goals in the quarter. His energy and hustle helped keep the game close as his side trailed 21-17 at the end of the first.
Finland held a 38-30 lead, their largest of the game, with just 3:33 left in the second quarter.