David Barlow officially joins Boomers' World Cup squad
It's official - Basketball Australia has announced that David Barlow will be part of the Australian Boomers' FIBA 2019 World Cup roster.
Barlow is expected to join the team immediately and practice with the Boomers on Wednesday, 21 August.
Barlow was earlier discussed on The Pick and Roll as a potential replacement yesterday, due to his experience with the Boomers and skillset.
Barlow could work. He’s a seasoned Boomer who knows the system, having seen recent action in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, has seen international play through his career before returning to the NBL, and is capable of playing stretches at power forward, depending on lineups.
The 35 year old Barlow averaged 11 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists across 34 games in the last 2018/19 NBL season. The 6’9 forward also has what modern basketball loves – a solid perimeter shot. Last season, Barlow made 41% on three-pointers, averaging 5 attempts a game.
The Melbourne United forward represented Australia at two Olympic Games. He has been a member of the Boomers’ FIBA World Cup qualifier games; most recently playing in the qualifier game against Iran last November.
“After reflecting on the needs of the group, it became evident that David’s skill set compliments the group nicely,” Boomers head coach Andrej Lemanis said.
“He brings strength and versatility at the defensive end, has great international experience and is committed to doing whatever is required for team success. David’s basketball IQ and previous experience in the system will allow him to slot in quickly with the team.
“As I have said many times over the past two weeks, there are plenty of great moments being involved in the national team. Speaking with David and hearing the sincerity with which he spoke when describing just what this opportunity means to him is another one of those wonderful moments.
“As a team, we now look forward to continuing our preparation this week.”
“I’m unbelievably grateful for the opportunity to represent my country in the upcoming World Cup," Barlow said. "I look forward to doing whatever is asked of me in order to help the team win. Sincerest thanks to those that have put their faith in me and also to those that have helped me get to this point in my career. I’m very lucky to be able to wear the green and gold again and will cherish what is to come.”
David Barlow joins the Boomers following Jonah Bolden's withdrawal from the Boomers squad.
International Basketball Series game schedule
Canada Basketball vs New Zealand, Tuesday 20 August 2019 , 7:30pm
Canada Basketball vs New Zealand, Wednesday 21 August 2019 , 7:30pm
Australian Boomers vs USA Basketball, Thursday 22 August 2019 , 7:30pm
Australian Boomers vs USA Basketball, Saturday 24 August 2019, 2:00pm
USA Basketball vs Canada Basketball, Monday 26 August 2019, 7:30pm
All times are denoted in AEST, and games available via SBS and SBS On Demand.
https://pickandroll.com.au/accc-engaged-in-ticket-refund-discussions-over-boomers-usa-games/