24
Nov
5 min read
Goulding's perfect 10 qualifies Boomers
Australian Boomer Chris Goulding was on fire from downtown, knocking down 10-of-16 from three in the 23-point win against Korea. Photo: FIBA.
Australia Boomers qualify for Asia Cup 2025 in Saudi Arabia
- Goulding's 31 points power Boomers to 4-0 record in qualifiers
- Australia secures spot in 2025 FIBA Asia Cup in Saudi Arabia
- Korea falls to 2-2 in Group A despite Lee Woosuk's 17 points
Chris Goulding's hot shooting propelled the Boomers to a dominant 98-75 win over Korea in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers at Goyang Gymnasium on Sunday, November 24, 2024.
The victory improved the Boomers' record to 4-0 and secured their spot in next year's tournament in Saudi Arabia.
Goulding has made an incredible 19 threes in two games, knocking down nine against Thailand on Thursday, November 21, 2024 — three days prior.
Chris Goulding, folks. Chris Goulding!
Goulding's Historic Performance
Goulding put on a shooting clinic, draining 10 three-pointers en route to a game-high 31 points on 10-of-18 from the field and 10-of-16 from three.
The 36-year-old veteran came close to breaking the Continental Cup Qualifiers record of 11 triples set by Ahmed Haji just days earlier.
Goulding's sharpshooting was particularly devastating in the second quarter, where he scored 10 points and helped Australia break the game open.
"Really happy to get a win against a really tough team, in a really fun gym," Goulding said after the game.
His 19 total three-pointers across this qualifying window showcased his continued importance to the national team.
Team Effort Secures Victory
While Goulding's performance stole the show, Australia's win was a true team effort. Ben Henshall contributed 16 points and eight rebounds, while Nick Kay recorded a strong double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds.
The Boomers' balanced attack and stifling defense proved too much for the home team to overcome.
Korea, led by Lee Woosuk's 17 points, struggled to find offensive rhythm against Australia's staunch defense — and Goulding, essentially, shot them out of the game.
Star forward Lee Hyunjung was held to 14 points on an uncharacteristically poor shooting night, missing all four of his three-point attempts, in a 6-for-16 effort from the field.
Looking Ahead to Saudi Arabia
With this win, Australia joins Japan and host nation Saudi Arabia as the first three teams to qualify for the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup. The Boomers will look to extend their continental dominance, aiming for a third consecutive Asia Cup title.
Head coach Jacob Chance would be pleased with his team's performance in this qualifying window. The Boomers' ability to blend veteran leadership with emerging talent bodes well for their chances of a three-peat in Saudi Arabia next year.
As the qualifiers continue, Australia can focus on fine-tuning their game plan and developing their roster depth. With sharpshooters such as Goulding leading the way and a strong supporting cast, the Boomers remain a formidable force in Asian basketball.
