Overview
- Australia beat New Zealand 84-79 in Hobart to open the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers for Group A.
- William Hickey hit a decisive three-pointer with 36 seconds left after the game was tied at 75 with four minutes to play.
- Jaylin Galloway led the Boomers with 19 points and Angus Glover added 17, while Sam Mennenga paced the Tall Blacks with 19 points and 10 rebounds.
- The Boomers were without Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels due to NBA duties and missed Will Magnay and Owen Foxwell through injury, and they were out-rebounded 41-33 with a 24-17 foul count against them.
- A rematch is scheduled in Wellington, with reports differing on whether it is Sunday or Monday, as Group A continues with Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines and Guam vying for three advancing spots.