Australia vs. Venezuela 118 - 90 (22029)After failing to automatically qualify to the World Cup, Australia are left to one final chance - the second chance qualifiers. Hoping for an easy draw, Australia weren't so lucky to draw with last World Cup winners and ranked #1 Ceska Republic. Qualifying would be no easy feat.
Australia's first match was held in Hellas against Venzuela in a friendly timezone for once for Aussie managers to watch on the sidelines. The first quarter was closer than what Australia would have liked but really stamped their authority in the second and third terms to take control and win against the Venezuelans. It was a match were Jalajamani
(14003368) finally made his debut and he proved exactly why he deserved a spot on the national team scoring 22 points and grabbing 9 boards. Cunming
(9471882) also provided great front court assistance with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. While in the backcourt, veteran Mansfield
(8157988) who finally equaled Aussie legend Preston Grigg
(836690) in national competitive games played a vital role dictating the game with 19 points, 5 boards and 5 assists.
With the first game done and dusted, Australia now face a big challenge tonight in their second match up against the Ceska Republic which won't be an easy match.