In a triumphant return to the court, Xavier Cooks propelled the Boomers to a decisive 92-67 victory against New Zealand, solidifying Australia’s series win in the Trans-Tasman Showdown. This match, held on the Sunshine Coast, marked Cooks’ second appearance following a one-month suspension for a positive cocaine test. He shone with a personal best of 16 points and eight rebounds, showcasing his significant impact on the game.
Following the match, Boomers captain Mitch Norton praised Cooks for his contributions, stating, “Someone who probably doesn’t get spoken about enough is Xavier Cooks… It’s really cool to see.” Cooks, who has made a name for himself with the Sydney Kings, was a key player in the Boomers’ dominant performance, helping the team secure an unassailable lead in the series with this win.
Other notable performances included Elijah Pepper, who scored 12 points and recorded five rebounds, while Todd Blanchfield added 11 points, six rebounds, and three successful three-pointers. Angus Glover also contributed with 10 points and two three-pointers. Norton emphasised the team’s unselfish play and the ability of various players to draw attention from defenders, enhancing their collective performance.
As the Boomers celebrate their success, the Opals seek to achieve a series victory of their own, aiming for a 2-0 lead against the Tall Ferns in their current series.
This victory highlights the depth and talent within the Australian basketball teams, as they continue to excel on the international stage. More updates on the ongoing series are anticipated.