Spread the love

Shaun Norris AUS Basket BallThe Australian Rollers have gone undefeated through the first phase of games at the 2014 IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championship in South Korea, defeating Italy 65-45 on Tuesday.

Finishing top of the “Group of Death”, the Rollers advance to the second phase of group games, where they will face Columbia, Turkey and the USA over the coming three days of competition.

It was a typically clinical performance from the Rollers, chasing down a fast starting Italy thanks to a brilliant first-half shooting display from Shaun Norris.

Norris was unstoppable, posting 14 points on 7-of-11 from the field (18 points and five rebounds for the game) as the Australians overturned a 9-6 deficit midway through the first quarter to lead 18-12 at the end of the opening period.

Justin Eveson had another big game, notching up 16 points and 10 rebounds on his way to a double-double, while Tristan Knowles had 13 points and six rebounds.

The Rollers put on the defensive clamps in the second period, pushing their lead out to 36-21 at the main interval. The second half was a more measured affair as the Italians struggled to crack the Rollers double-digit advantage.

The Rollers next 2014 IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championship challenge comes tomorrow against Colombia at 5:45pm AEST.

CLICK HERE for the full schedule for the 2014 IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championship.

For all the latest information on the Rollers quest for back-to-back IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championship be sure to visit the BA website at basketball.net.au

Australian Rollers Group Stage Fixtures

Australian Rollers v Colombia
Tuesday 8 July @ 5:45pm (All times AEST)

Australian Rollers v Turkey
Wednesday 9 July @ 1:15pm

Australian Rollers v USA
Thursday 10 July @ 1:15pm

By Basketball Australia
Posted: 8/7/2014