Australia has completed a perfect Window 1 of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, edging New Zealand 79–77 after a dramatic finish in Wellington.
With the scores locked in the final seconds, the Boomers executed under pressure as Davo Hickey drained a contested three at the buzzer to secure the result.
The moment capped a composed fourth-quarter response from Australia, who trailed 67–57 early in the period before rallying behind disciplined defence and timely execution.
The Boomers' bench erupted as the shot fell, silencing a packed TSB Bank Arena and delivering another hard-earned victory over the Tall Blacks just 48 hours after Australia claimed an 84–79 win in Melbourne.
Hickey, who also delivered a crucial late three in Friday’s opener, again played an important role with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists, while Australia’s collective composure ensured the reigning three-time FIBA Asia Cup champions finish the window atop Group A.
