New Aussie X-factor emerges as Boomers resume trans-Tasman battle after scare — Talking Points
The Australian Boomers and New Zealand Tall Blacks meet again tonight, this time in New Zealand, where the Tall Blacks will be desperate to respond.
The Boomers scored a 84-79 win in Tasmania on Friday but New Zealand’s size and depth kept them in the contest throughout.
Game two now presents a chance for the Tall Blacks to claim their first win of the window, and strengthen their push for a World Cup berth. Replicating the physicality and size advantages from game one will be crucial, particularly their dominance on the glass.
AUS Boomers take on NZ Tall Blacks in the World Cup qualifiers | FRI 28 NOV 7:30PM AEDT & MON 1 DEC 5PM AEDT | Watch Live on ESPN, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
New Zealand out-rebounded Australia 49-36, including a massive 18-8 edge on the offensive boards. Despite that, the Boomers’ efficiency and composure down the stretch proved decisive.
Here are some storylines the will likely decide the contest ahead of Monday’s second FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifier, starting at 5pm AEDT on at TSB Arena in Wellington.
CAN JAYLIN GALLOWAY CONTINUE THE MOMENTUM?
Jaylin Galloway continues to build a reputation for elevating his play in the green and gold. Fresh off his Asia Cup MVP and a game-one performance of 19 points, three rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block, he again shapes as Australia’s X-factor.
Galloway did battle some discomfort after a calf scare during the game, and his explosive first step was clearly hampered. Even so, his efficient shooting from deep and inside kept the Boomers steady.
With no signs he will miss game two, he remains the Boomers’ most important offensive piece. If the Tall Blacks can force the ball out of his hands, their chances rise significantly.
GAME 1 PLAYER RATINGS: Stunner gives rise to new Aussie nickname; who saved Boomers in close call
HOBART, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 28: Jaylin Galloway of the Boomers passes the ball during the Asian Qualifier match between the Australia Boomers and New Zealand Tall Blacks at MyState Bank Arena on November 28, 2025 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
WILL THE TALL BLACKS TIGHTEN THEIR ROTATION?
In game one, head coach Judd Flavell gave almost his entire roster meaningful minutes. Eleven players saw the floor, ten played more than 10 minutes, and eight played more than 15. Only four played over 20.
Whether that changes in game two is a major storyline.
Sam Mennenga and Flynn Cameron – New Zealand’s best performers – combined for just 46 minutes, a number that may need to increase given their impact.
The opening stages will reveal the Tall Blacks’ intent: Will they shorten the rotation to allow their stars to set the tone early, or keep trusting the full roster to find rhythm and energy?
CAN THE BOOMERS CONTAIN SAM MENNENGA?
Sam Mennenga was one of the standout forces in game one. In 21 minutes and 43 seconds, he delivered 19 points on 50% shooting, ten rebounds (six offensive) and two assists.
Australia struggled with his physicality, versatility and ability to create mismatches at the four. With the Boomers lacking size in this particular squad, the combination of Mennenga, Yanni Wetzell and Tyrell Harrison – with at least two on the floor most of the game – caused constant issues.
At 6’9, with the ability to shoot, pass and score inside, Mennenga looms as a genuine long-term prospect for the Tall Blacks. If Australia can’t limit him and New Zealand’s bigs, they’ll find it difficult to control game two.
Sam Mennenga of the Tall Blacks.Source: Getty Images
DOES MOJAVE KING BOUNCE BACK?
Mojave King’s performance in game one was the biggest disappointment for the Tall Blacks. After a strong Asia Cup campaign, he was expected to be a primary scorer, but finished with just two points and two assists in 24 minutes, shooting 10% from the field and 0-5 from three.
His confidence clearly faded, forcing tough shots in search of rhythm that never came. New Zealand were eight points worse with him on the floor, while Cameron and Mennenga both finished with positive plus-minus numbers.
King is the team’s much-needed perimeter scoring threat. His response in game two is critical – the Tall Blacks need him to alleviate pressure on their bigs and provide scoring balance.
WHO HAS THE BIGGER IMPACT – WILL HICKEY OR FLYNN CAMERON?
Flynn Cameron and Will Hickey were both instrumental for their teams. Cameron impressed with 15 points, seven assists, three rebounds and two steals, showcasing poise and leadership.
Hickey was just as influential for the Boomers, finishing with 12 points, five rebounds and six assists, and a team-high +16. His five turnovers were a concern, but are somewhat expected given his role as primary ball-handler.
This matchup may ultimately swing the game. Whichever guard controls tempo, defends at a high level and lifts their team around them will put their side in the box seat. Both players continue to rise rapidly and shape as major factors in the future of their national teams.
The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown on Monday, December 1st at 5:00pm AEDT at TSB Arena in Wellington, Te Whanganui-a-tara, with the Tall Blacks determined to level the two-game qualifier window.
