Exum and Green
In a pivotal match during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Germany managed to secure a hard-fought victory against Australia, with the game culminating in a closely contested final score of 85-82.
A significant factor in Australia's performance was the noteworthy contribution of players Dante Exum and Josh Green from the Dallas Mavericks, who both came off the bench to play pivotal roles in the critical second half of the game.
Dante Exum's standout performance included an impressive nine points, four rebounds, and three assists, all achieved in a mere 16 minutes of playing time. Demonstrating consistency, Exum has maintained an average of 9.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists across two games, highlighting his importance to the team's overall strategy. His multifaceted skill set, comprising adept driving, playmaking, and defensive versatility, positions him as a key asset to the Australian squad.
Australian team coach Brian Goorjian praises Exum's versatility, emphasizing his vital role as a point player supporting Giddey. Exum's strong skills in penetration, playmaking, and defense enhance our gameplay.
Goorjian also pointed to halftime adjustments that led to a more impactful utilization of Exum during the second half, which notably elevated his contributions, particularly in the third quarter — a crucial period in which Exum's performance played a significant role.
Josh Green made a strong impact as a bench player, displaying defensive tenacity through full-court pressure and quick rotations. This bolstered the team's competitiveness. He also shined offensively, scoring six points in 16 minutes and highlighting his versatility.
Goorjian praised Green's effective bench presence, commenting, "Green's debut off the bench yielded substantial impact. Despite the condensed playing time compared to the NBA, he embraced his role and played with a sense of freedom and intensity, contributing significantly to the team's performance."
The Australian team's next challenge awaits them against Japan on August 29 at the Okinawa Arena, as they continue their journey in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
