Australia beat New Zealand in opening game of the series

Patty Mills

Australia - New Zealand 71-59
Australia knocked down New Zealand to make the first step towards 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The Boomers will enjoy a 12-point cushion entering the second game of the Oceania Chamipionship series scheduled for Tuesday. David Andersen (213-C-80, agency: Championship Sports) and Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA, agency: CAA Sports) scored 17 points each to pace the winners today. The Tall Blacks earned a 16:12 lead after the opening quarter. But the Boomers responded with a 22:10 run in the second frame to secure a 34:26 halftime lead. New Zealand pulled within 5 points at the final intermission. However the hosts went on a 22:15 run in the fourth period and sealed a comfortable victory at the end. Matthew Dellavedova (193-G-90, college: St.Mary's, CA, agency: BDA Sports) recorded 15 points for the winners. Corey Webster (188-G-88, college: Lambuth, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 22 points for New Zealand. Jarrod Kenny (188-G-85) notched 12 points for the Tall Blacks.