Ili, Waardenburg star for NZ, Travers dominates for Boomers

Melbourne United duo Shea Ili and Sam Waardenburg stood tall for New Zealand as they picked up a crucial 93-91 overtime win over Iran in the Tall Black’s FIBA World Cup Qualifying matchup.

In a physical contest, Ili led the way at both ends for New Zealand, slicing inside the paint for tough layups, drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line, and finding wide open teammates for easy baskets.

The star guard also produced the play of the game, rising high for a poster slam at the start of the overtime period.

Ili led all scorers with 24 points, however it was Waardenburg who sealed the deal on the victory, swatting a shot from Iran in the final seconds to improve the Tall Black’s record to 5-2 across seven games.

While New Zealand had to fight in a nail-biter, the Australian Boomers, led by United Head Coach, Jacob Chance, cruised to a 123-64 demolition of Syria.

On the court, Luke Travers was among Australia’s best, finishing as an impressive +43 in just 19 minutes of play, and tallying 14 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Sitting atop Group E with an undefeated 7-0 record, the Boomers will next face Jordan (5-2) on Sunday evening from 7pm, while New Zealand will battle Syria.

If both nations are victorious, the Tall Black will rise into the top three of the group, putting them in position to advance to the next stage of qualification.

*Photo - Leonard Manuel Seijo