McVeigh leads Boomers into Final after routing Iran

Australia marched into the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Final in commanding fashion, dismantling Iran 92-48 in the Semi-Finals on Saturday at King Abdullah Sports City to extend their unbeaten run to five games. Every Boomers player got on the scoreboard in a performance that showcased depth, discipline and dominance. Jack McVeigh (203-F-1996, college: Nebraska) led the way with 17 points and three triples, while Harry Wessels (216-C-2002) had 16 points and William Hickey (194-G-1999) chipped in 14 as Australia practically controlled the game from start to finish. Hickey added 6 rebounds and 6 assists in an all-around display, while Wessels provided a steady defensive presence. Owen Foxwell (188-G-2003) set the tone early with steals and a key three-pointer, and Jack White (201-F-1997, college: Duke) delivered highlight-reel slams to keep the energy high. For Iran, Sina Vahedi (190-G-2001, agency: Octagon Europe) top-scored with 11 points including two triples, while Mobin Sheikhi (176-PG-1997) had 8 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Star forward Mohammad Amini (201-G-2005, agency: BIG) was limited to just 2 points on 1-of-9 shooting as the Boomers’ defense smothered his usual offensive spark. Australia weathered Iran’s early punches in the first quarter, answering with back-to-back triples from McVeigh and Reyne Smith (188-G-2002, college: Louisville) plus a technical foul free throw to close the period up 27-20. From there, the Boomers found another gear. The second quarter saw a 24-9 burst led by Foxwell’s perimeter shooting and inside dominance from White, Will Magnay (208-C-1998, college: Tulsa) and Wessels, giving the Aussies a 51-29 halftime cushion. If the first half had Iran scrambling, the third quarter finished the job. McVeigh’s quick five points, punishing runs from Hickey and Wessels, and relentless defensive pressure resulted in a staggering 29-8 frame that pushed the margin to 80-37. By the time Joshua Bannan’s corner triple dropped, the game was long decided. The final quarter was about managing minutes and maintaining focus, with Wessels continuing to score inside and Australia’s defense ensuring Iran never threatened. The Boomers’ balanced attack, rim protection and transition efficiency proved too much for a young Team Melli still finding their identity after earlier comeback wins in the tournament. For Australia, the result means a shot at a third straight FIBA Asia Cup title and an opportunity to keep their perfect record in the competition intact. For Iran, their undefeated run ends one game short of the Final, but their resilience and overachievement with a revamped roster will remain a highlight of the 2025 campaign. The Boomers now turn their attention to Sunday’s Final, where they will face similarly undefeated 16-time champions China, which beat New Zealand earlier in the day. With momentum, depth and confidence on their side, Australia look set to chase yet another piece of FIBA Asia Cup hardware.
Courtesy of: fiba.basketball