Debuting in his first-ever World Cup, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey delivered a memorable performance that drew comparisons to LeBron James’ World Cup debut in 2006.
Giddey led Australia to a 98-72 victory over Finland with an all-around performance, tallying 14 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, and one steal.
The only other player to finish with at least 10 points, five rebounds, and five assists in the last two decades during their World Cup debut was the four-time NBA champion and Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James.
Although surprised that he almost had a triple-double performance, Giddey shrugged off the feat and remained focused on their group stage matches, wanting nothing less than to bring the trophy home.
(C) FIBA.basketball
“As I always say, it’s cool to be in the company of guys like that, but it’s always about the group. It’s always about the team.
“And we’re lucky to have a deep twelve-man roster. So whether I play great or I play poorly, what matters is that we win the game. We did that tonight, so that’s what makes me happy,” he said.
“It’s my first-ever time wearing the Boomers jersey in a real game. Lots of excitement. Lots of emotion running through me when you have your country on your back and you’re trying to win for your nation. Many guys on this team have been here for 10, 15 years. It’s important to join the team with the same mindset and have everyone on the same page. We’re very fortunate to have a group that shares a common goal,” he continued.
Despite playing in his maiden World Cup campaign, head coach Brian Goorjian had nothing but praise for his prized player, whose addition to the team added another dimension that was absent when they finished with the bronze medal during the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan.
“We’ve talked about his first game as a Boomer in a competition like this. The ball was in his hands, and we just didn’t have that level of player there in Tokyo, and it makes a big difference,” he said.
Giddey and the Boomers will next face Germany on Sunday (August 27) before concluding their group stage campaign against Japan on August 29.
