"Okay Boomer(s)"

In 2012, I had the privilege of interviewing Patty Mills fresh off the heels of an Olympic campaign, where he and his Boomers endured a disappointing quarterfinal loss to the formidable Team USA. While exiting the tournament in the round of 16 was undoubtedly a blow for Australian basketball, it marked the moment when Patty Mills truly announced himself to the world.

Long before his remarkable 42-point performance in a medal game or his heroic exploits in the NBA finals, it was the London 2012 Olympics that introduced the international basketball community to the phenomenon known as "FIBA Patty." Although Mills was no stranger to donning the green and gold, it was in London where his brilliance truly shone.

He emerged as the tournament's leading scorer, averaging over 21 points per game—outpacing NBA superstars like Kevin Durant and the late Kobe Bryant. Yet, when I had the opportunity to speak with him, satisfaction eluded him. He recognised the potential of the Boomers program and articulated aspirations beyond personal accolades. For Mills, the ultimate goal was Olympic medal success, aiming to emulate the major tournament triumphs of our esteemed Opals.

Fast-forwarding to 2021, amidst a pandemic-delayed Olympics and against the backdrop of empty stands, the Australian Boomers, led by flag bearer Patty Mills, stood proudly on the podium—a realisation of a collective dream not just for the twelve players gracing the court that tournament but for every Boomer who had come before them.

Goal achieved. So, what lies ahead? Gold seems the inevitable next step, doesn't it?

Certainly, anything short of a medal will be deemed unacceptable within the four walls of the Boomers camp. Yet, merely standing on the podium, while undoubtedly significant, won't stir the emotions quite like it did in Tokyo. For this group, only one target will suffice: standing atop the podium with gold draped around their necks.

Following a disappointing outing at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, introspection is imperative as the Boomers gear up for the 2024 Paris Games. They must tap into the very essence of Boomers Culture, determined to exchange their rose gold for a pure, Eiffel Tower-infused gold medal.

Now, I'll confess—I didn't start this piece with a disclaimer, but perhaps I should have. I'm a self-professed basketball tragic, an avid follower of the NBA. Not because I'm a die-hard NBA fan, but rather because I'm constantly scouting for Australians who could bolster the Boomers' ranks. And no, my talents have never been sought at Basketball Australia HQ.

Nonetheless, its undeniably enjoyable to play the role of fantasy Boomers GM from time to time.

With that said, here's my breakdown of the roster and how I envision structuring it for the opening tip in Paris later this year. While I have eleven locks in mind, the twelfth slot remains wide open, ripe for speculation and deliberation.

STARTING FIVE:

PG: GIDDEY, Josh

SG: GREEN, Josh

SF: EXUM, Dante

PF: SIMMONS, Ben

C: REATH, Duop

SECOND UNIT:

PG: MILLS, Patty

SG: THYBULLE, Matisse

SF: INGLES, Joe

PF: KAY, Nick

C: LANDALE, Jock

11: DANIELS, Dyson

12: FROM: Cooks, White, Goulding, Sobey, Dellavedova, Baynes, Zikarski, Maker

Overall rationale:

Following the recent World Cup, there have been calls for Basketball Australia to shift its focus towards the future, looking beyond the era dominated by Patty Mills and Joe Ingles. While it's crucial to keep one eye on the horizon, I staunchly reject any notion that they are anything less than vital components of our aspirations for gold. Despite slotting them into my second unit, it's not due to any belief that they're past their prime. Rather, my starting lineup comprises five bona fide NBA talents who have been pivotal in their roles, commanding significant minutes this season. They bring an unparalleled level of energy from the get-go, leaving opponents yearning for a respite. Yet, our Boomers' second unit consists entirely of our Bronze medal starters, ensuring there will be no reprieve for our adversaries when our starters check-out.

Individual rationale:

PG: GIDDEY, Josh

Despite not shining in his NBA role as he'd like this season, Giddey's contribution to a genuine title-contending team can't be overlooked despite being played largely out of position. His performance at the recent World Cup signaled a future where he'll lead the Boomers once Patty retires.

SG: GREEN, Josh

Green's consistency on offence is what has nudged him ahead of Thybulle in the lineup, his defensive prowess paired with his ability to get to the rim making him a formidable asset night after night.

SF: EXUM, Dante

Exum's journey in basketball is the stuff of legend. The prospect of seeing him team up with his Dallas counterpart, Green, is enthralling. Expect Giddey and Simmons to create opportunities as these Mavericks get downhill.

PF: SIMMONS, Ben

The Boomers need Ben and Ben needs the Boomers. I'm not saying we can't win gold without him, but his presence would undoubtedly bolster the team.

I never sold my Ben Simmons stocks, and the payday is coming, watching him closely he looks healthy both physically and mentally and its a great sight to see.

Obviously Ben prefers to run the point, but the squad makeup I have gone with is rather guard heavy, so I envisage Coach Goorjian asking him to play big.

C: REATH, Duop

Reath's journey to success is heartwarming. His work ethic, versatility, and knack for scoring from the outside have endeared him to fans. He edges out Landale in the starting lineup due to his consistent minutes and output.

SECOND UNIT:

PG: MILLS, Patty

Need I say more? While unconventional to see Patty coming off the bench, it's not about who starts, but who is out there in the clutch.

SG: THYBULLE, Matisse

A consistent three-point shot away from greatness, Thybulle's defensive capabilities are undeniable. Expect him to be a key figure in locking down opponents, alternating seamlessly with Green.

SF: INGLES, Joe

Joe's return to fitness and form is good for the soul. His confidence, sharpshooting, defensive acumen, and veteran leadership are invaluable assets to the team, a former six-man of the year nominee he knows how to come off the bench and make an impact.

PF: KAY, Nick

Those who doubt Nick Kay's value must have short memories. Kay's pivotal contributions, particularly during the Tokyo campaign, were nothing short of immense. Often overshadowed, his role in the team is a required one. With Landale and Simmons joining the squad, Kay can return to his role as the team's linchpin, playing the position of 'Big Fundamental.' In my eyes, he embodies a "less punchy" version of prime Draymond Green—a player whose impact extends far beyond the stat sheet.

C: LANDALE, Jock

Jock's absence was keenly felt in the recent World Cup. His length, strength, and ability to stretch the floor make him indispensable. Expect him to make a significant impact this time around.

11: DANIELS, Dyson

Daniels' spot on the roster is secure, and his role will only grow with time. He'll either be a spark plug off the bench or a reliable contributor in case of injuries.

12: FROM: Cooks, White, Goulding, Dellavedova, Baynes, Zikarski, Maker

Selecting the twelfth spot isn't a simple decision. While some may argue that Goulding boasts unrivalled prowess as a three-point shooter in the FIBA arena, Coach Goorjian's recent tournament strategies have leaned towards relying heavily on the initial ten players in the rotation. This inclination leads me to believe that offering exposure, particularly in a distinct "twelfth man" role, to a promising young talent like the towering 7"3 Rocko Zikarski might serve the team better in the long run.

Cooks and White would be unfortunate to miss out, but it's a real possibility depending on the balance Coach Goorjian seeks in his roster, especially if both Simmons and Landale board the plane to Paris. While Delly and Baynes may not make the trip, their unwavering dedication and seasoned experience are factors worth considering, particularly in challenging situations, as they're known for their unyielding resolve. Additionally, Thon Maker, at just 26 years old, remains a viable option and should always be part of the discussion.

At its core, this squad possesses the qualities needed to reach the pinnacle, guided by the leadership of Coach Goorjian and Patty Mills, undeterred by the formidable lineups of Team USA, Team France, or any other European powerhouse. The essence of Boomers culture transcends mere theory—it's a palpable energy propelling this team towards greatness.