Dellavedova, White headline Boomers World Cup Qualifier squad

Melbourne United stars Matthew Dellavedova and Jack White have both been selected to the Australian Boomers 12-man team ahead of its upcoming World Cup Qualifier games.

Coming off an All-NBL season, donning the green and gold is nothing new for Dellavedova, who has represented Australia at the past three Olympic Games, and past two FIBA World Cups.

Dellavedova, who has been working out in the US during the offseason, spoke about his anticipation leading into the qualifiers.

“I'm excited to be able to pull on the green & gold on home soil for three home games in Melbourne. The games are going to be tough and competitive, can’t wait to get started.”

This will be the first time White has been selected to the Boomers squad, having previously played for Australia at the U17 and U19 World Cups.

Speaking following the announcement, White touched on his excitement ahead of the games.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to represent the Boomers ever since I started taking basketball seriously.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to represent Australia three times at junior and university events, there is nothing that comes close to the feeling of wearing the green and gold and playing for your country.

“I’m so excited for the opportunity to represent the Boomers at this event, especially on home soil in front of Australian fans, friends and family and I know it will be a special moment I’ll never forget.”

Upon learning of the selections, United Head Coach Dean Vickerman said these games are a great opportunity for both Dellavedova and White to represent their country in front of family and friends.

“It’s fantastic that Delly has put his hand up to play for Australia in this coming FIBA window. He takes great pride in wearing the Boomers uniform and to do it in Melbourne in front of family and United fans will be so special. 

“The same goes for Jack. It’ll be his first taste of Boomers basketball and caps off a great return to basketball post injury. Internationally Jack can play and defend multiple positions. We believe he will have a positive impact on the Boomers program.”

These sentiments were echoed by Boomers Coach Brian Goorjian, who said United’s duo, alongside other Australian talent such as Thon Maker and Sam Froling, will give his side the best opportunity to secure a spot in the upcoming FIBA World Cup.

“We can expect Thon Maker at 7ft to be a significant asset for us, alongside Delly, White and Froling there is a lot to like with this group. We only have a short time to train together, but we will make it count, I know the home crowd will give us the advantage,” Goorjian said.

The Boomers will face Japan and China at John Cain Arena in Melbourne. Tickets are available at Ticketek.

See the full Boomers team list below:

Matthew Dellavedova (Melbourne United)

Mitch McCarron (Adelaide 36ers)

Will McDowell-White (NZ Breakers)

Sam McDaniel (Tasmania JackJumpers)

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk (Illawarra Hawks)

Todd Blachfield (Perth Wildcats)

Clint Steindl (Tasmania JackJumpers)

Jack White (Melbourne United) 

Jack McVeigh (Tasmania JackJumpers)

Keanu Pinder (Cairns Taipans)

Thon Maker (G League)

Sam Froling (Illawarra Hawks)