Ben Simmons snubbed from extended Boomers World Cup squad, but may still play
The extended Boomers squad for this year's Basketball World Cup has been released, with one big omission.
Three time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons has been snubbed from Brian Goorjian's 18-man list.
Despite missing the back end of the season with a recurrence of a back injury, Simmons' chances of making the squad for the tournament, held in Japan starting in August, were thought to have been high after Goorjian publicly endorsed the 26-year-old point guard.
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"I think [Ben's] mindset is getting healthy, getting in shape and getting ready to play in this [World Cup]," Goorjian told SEN radio last week.
Simmons in action against the Detroit Pistons in January. Mike Stobe via Getty Images
"And I think he has been along that line for a while and I felt it last time. As we sit now, I think there is a really strong chance [that he plays]."
But Goorjian has indicated the snubbing on Monday hasn't ended Simmons' chances of playing - he could still make the final 12-man team if he's declared fit.
Goorjian said the squad had "a good balance".
"The coaches and I have had many discussions about getting the mix right, but I'm really pleased with where we've landed with the guys we've selected. There's a good balance across the court," Goorjian said.
Boomers veteran Matthew Dellavedova has also been picked. Getty
"The fact it's been so tough goes to show the depth of talent we have in Australian basketball right now."
Australia is in Group E with Finland, Germany and hosts Japan. The Boomers' first game is against Finland on August 25.
Extended Boomers squad: Xavier Cooks, Dyson Daniels, Matthew Dellavedova, Dante Exum, Sam Froling, Josh Giddey, Chris Goulding, Josh Green, Joe Ingles, Nick Kay, Jock Landale, Thon Maker, Will McDowell-White, Patty Mills, Keanu Pinder, Duop Reath, Matisse Thybulle, Jack White
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