Why Australia sat its NBA stars for FIBA Asia Cup — and how the Boomers still threepeated

The Australian Boomers clinched a third FIBA Asia Cup crown, edging out China in the final, and several new faces impressed in the green and gold.

Credit: FIBA

The Australian Boomers went in to the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup as strong favourites and did not disappoint, securing a third consecutive title since changing confederations. New head coach Adam Caporn unveiled a team very different from the 2024 Paris Olympics, giving several players an opportunity to impress in national colours. The finale ended up being a nailbiting 90-89 win over China, where Australia’s star power proved too strong, as former NBL MVP Xavier Cooks exploded for 30 points and nine rebounds.

The absence of Australia’s NBA-based stars, like Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels, provided a platform for other names to impress on an international stage. Whilst there’s an argument that the rotating Boomers roster promotes the development of younger players, one can’t help but notice the stark contrast from the Paris 2024 Olympic squad.