Stattmann Makes Boomers Debut in Guam Win

Cairns’ own Kody Stattmann took another huge step, making his Australian Boomers debut in Thursday night’s 93-80 win over Guam in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

Stattmann came off the bench alongside fellow Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans guard Reyne Smith, who returned to the national set-up in Boomers colours.

After a scrappy opening term, the Boomers seized control with a 29-16 second quarter to open a 46-33 halftime lead, sparked by Wildcats shooter Elijah Pepper (23 points) after Guam briefly edged in front.

Debutant Tanner Krebs caught fire from long range, drilling eight threes on his way to 28 points.

United guard Tom Wilson steered the offence with 11 points and 10 assists, while the Boomers dominated the glass to keep Guam at arm’s length despite valiant performances from Arizona State forward BJ Freeman (25 points and nine rebounds) and Takumi Simon (19 points).

Stattmann and Smith were scoreless in limited minutes off the bench, though Stattmann produced a crucial third quarter chase down block.

Australia’s win locked in a place in the Asian Qualifiers’ Second Round, which begins in August.

The Taipans duo return to action this weekend, when the Boomers face the Philippines on Sunday night (9:30pm AEST), live on ESPN and Kayo Sports.