Rollers capture first wheelchair basketball world title in 12 years
Australia defeats Italy 81-57 to win the men's IWBF World Championships final in Canada, giving the Rollers their third title in the tournament's history.
Australia secured their first wheelchair basketball world title in 12 years, defeating Italy 81-57 in the men's IWBF World Championships final held in Canada. The Rollers, also known as the Australians, had never before claimed the championship. The victory marked the Rollers' third title in the tournament's history, following their successes in 2010 and 2014.
Jaylen Brown was the star performer for the Rollers, scoring a game-high 28 points. Captain Tom O'Neill-Thorne also contributed significantly with 20 points, 16 assists, and seven rebounds. Bill Latham added 12 points, seven rebounds, and two assists to the Rollers' impressive effort.
Italy entered the gold-medal match with an undefeated record, but the Rollers dominated from the opening quarter. They led at every break, outscoring Italy 81-57 and outrebounding their opponents 35-25. The Rollers' defensive intensity was a key factor in their success, as they forced 13 turnovers and only conceded nine of their own.
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