White shuts down NBA star in Boomers win

The Boomers have gotten off to the perfect start this FIBA World Cup, defeating Finland by 26 points on Friday night.

After a slow start, Australia dialled in defensively, limiting Finland to just 51 points across the final three quarters.

A huge X-factor for the Boomers came in the form of former Melbourne United star Jack White, whose defence and energy off the bench changed the game.

White played just under 15 minutes of action, spending the majority of his time matched up on Finnish NBA superstar Lauri Markkanen.

The NBL21 championship winner all but shut down the seven-footer, forcing him into turnovers and missed shots, while doing damage on the other end to the tune of seven points.

White finished the game as a +25, second to only Patty Mills, as Australia set themselves up well for the tournament moving forward.

United sharpshooter Chris Goulding played four minutes in the win.

The other Group E game also featured a former United standout, as Yudai Baba and Japan fell to Germany.

As expected, Baba provided elite energy, finishing with 15 points, however poor shooting saw Japan go down by 18 points.

Australia will next face Germany on Sunday evening from 6:30pm.

Shea Ili and Flynn Cameron are set to play their opening game of the World Cup tonight when the Tall Blacks match up against the USA at 10:40pm. The game will be streamed live on ESPN and Kayo.

Photo - FIBA