Opals open Asia Cup campaign with jaw dropping 76-point thrashing of the Philippines
The Opals couldn't have gotten their FIBA Asian Cup campaign off to a better start, thrashing the Philippines by 76 points in Shenzhen, China.
The Aussies put their foot down from the start, leading 12-0, and never looked back in the 115-39 win.
In fact, despite the game being well and truly over very early on, the lead continued to balloon out.
READ MORE: Broncos teen sent off for dangerous act in forgettable debut
READ MORE: A visit to Gallen's gym led to a surprising reveal
READ MORE: AFL star banned for use of 'highly offensive' slur
Sara Blicavs of the Opals against the Philippines. Getty
The Opals restricted their opponents to just two points in the final quarter, which is basically unfathomable in professional basketball. They also had a 21-0 run at one point.
Miela Goodchild led the way with 19 points, while Chloe Bibby dominated with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
Sara Blicavs scored 17, while Cayla George grabbed 10 rebounds herself.
Given the state of the game, 11 players were rotated for the Aussies keeping them fresh for the rest of the tournament.
Australia has been placed in Group B alongside Japan, Lebanon and the Philippines and this enormous win sets up their ability to control the remainder of the pool. They will play Lebanon on Monday and Japan on Tuesday.
The tournament was last held in 2023 in Sydney, where the Opals finished third after losing to eventual winners China.
