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Australia and Georgia will cap off their 2023 FIBA World Cup preparations with an exhibition game in Okinawa, Japan. The event is just three days away, and both teams will be finetuning their plans before the tournament starts.
The Boomers, who are one of the strongest teams in the competition, are looking to continue their winning ways after beating France 78-74 two days ago. They will be led by OKC Thunder's Josh Giddey and captain Patty Mills.
Georgia, meanwhile, have won their last three games, against Jordan, Montenegro and Iran, respectively. The matchup against the Aussies, however, is easily their toughest so far.
The Boomers are ranked third in the FIBA world rankings, and they’re going to be a huge step up in competition for the Georgians.
Australia vs. Georgia game details
Date: August 22, 2023
Time: 4:00 AM ET
Venue: Tokyo, Japan
The Australians will be wary of injuries. They already lost Jock Landale, who will miss the World Cup, due to an ankle injury. The Houston Rockets big man was expected to be a key part of their campaign. They can’t afford another injury in their final preparation game.
Boomers coach Brian Goorijan may also keep Josh Giddey and Duop Reath out of the game. Despite that, the team from Down Under is deep and talented. Even without their top players, they’re going to be favored against Georgia.
The Georgians have NBA talent on their lineup as well. Sandro Mamukelashvili and Goga Bitadze will lead their World Cup campaign with support from Tornike Shengelia and Giorgi Shermadini.
Where to watch
Australia vs. Georgia will be available on FUBO and FIBA’s official streaming channel, Courtside 1891. A few local stations in Japan are expected to air the game live for free.
Australia in Group E in FIBA World Cup elimination round
Australia has been placed in a tough bracket in the 2023 World Cup. They are in Group E with Germany, Finland and Japan. Only the top two teams will move to the second round.
While the Aussies are the top-ranked FIBA team in the bracket, their opponents are capable of springing an upset. Japan has a strong team led by Rui Hachimura and will be playing in front of its home fans. They can’t be counted out despite their 31st finish in 2019.
Georgia in Group F in FIBA World Cup elimination round
On paper, the Georgians look like they have an easier route to the second round. They are in Group F, along with Slovenia, Cape Verde and Venezuela. Luka Doncic and the Slovenians are heavily favored to finish No. 1, while everyone else will battle for second.
The Baltic state will like their chances against their other opponents.
