The Australian Boomers rallied late but were unable to overcome Brazil and their quartet of NBA stars, falling to a 75-71 defeat to open their London Olympic campaign.

Australia’s only NBA player Patty Mills led the way for the Boomers with 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists. 

European-based Aussie Joe Ingles added 15 points, including a couple of clutch plays late in the game that helped the Boomers pull within two points in the final minute.

Fellow Euro star David Andersen added 14 points and eight rebounds, and was the sparkplug behind a second half surge for the Boomers.

Indiana Pacers guard Leandro Barbosa led the Brazilians with 16 points.

The Boomers struggled from the perimeter, making just a single three-pointer before late in the final period when a triple from Andersen broke the drought.
Australia were also hamstrung by 19 turnovers against the Brazilian pressure defence.

The Australian Olympic Team’s match report is available at: http://london2012.olympics.com.au/news/boomers-vs-brazil-match-report

The boxscore is available at: http://static.sportresult.com/fiba-live/?event=6232&game=8