Boomers kick off campaign with gritty win

THE Australian Boomers have kicked off their Olympic campaign with a win, beating Nigeria 84-65 in Tokyo on Sunday night.

After scores were level at the conclusion of the first term, the Boomers would go on to lead at every break before ending up on top.

It was a scrappy encounter all night, with the game being dominated by defence with both sides turning the ball over at alarming rates.

Luckily for the Boomers, Australian flag bearer Patty Mills had another strong Olympic performance with 25 points, six assists and four steals to lead his side to victory.

Mills was supported well by first-time Olympians Matisse Thybulle (nine points, five steals) and Dante Exum (11 points, five rebounds), with their length causing problems for the Nigerians on both ends of the floor.

Ultimately, coach Boomers coach Brian Goorjian will be hoping that this game helps blow out the cobwebs after a strange build up to the games.

The Boomers faced Italy on Wednesday night and take on Germany on this Saturday at 6.20pm (AEST).

– BY LACHIE GELEIT/ SEN