Aussies bounce back to rout Germany

Australia bounced back from their heartbreaking two-point loss to Argentina in the best possible fashion at the world championships yesterday by demolishing Germany 78-43.

Germany had been seen as a real possible threat to the Australians, especially after their over-time victory against Serbia on Sunday.

But the extended game on Sunday had taken its toll on the Germans who looked tired, falling behind early and never recovering.

Patrick Mills pounced on the Germans, moving the ball up court with pace forcing the tired Germans to chase, leading his team to a 12-point lead by the end of the first period (19-7).

Mills energy was relentless, having a hand in almost all of Australia’s second quarter points claiming 10 points and 4 assists by the end of the half. Halftime could not come quick enough for the Germans, now down by 18 (20-38).

Things would not improve for Germany following the break, as they failed to find an answer to stop a rampant Australia.

Mills was to continue his dominance, ably supported by Joe Ingles, who doubled his first half points to 10. By the end of the quarter Australia had managed to double their opponents points, leading 62-31.

With the game already decided, the tempo dropped in the final period, but Australia were still able to extend their lead by more.

Australian Aleks Maric made the final quarter his own, scoring his sides final 11 points to finish with a personal total of 15.

Other results: Jordan vs Serbia 69-112; Slovenia vs Croatia 91-84; Tunisia vs Iran 58-71.