Bryce Cotton makes Boomers debut as part of FIBA frenzy on ESPN – Bryce Cotton makes his long-awaited Australian Boomers debut this week, as ESPN delivers a huge run of international basketball featuring the Boomers, Opals and New Zealand.
The action begins on Friday, 3 July, when New Zealand faces the Philippines at 4.50pm AEST. Later that night, the Australian Boomers meet Guam in a FIBA World Cup Qualifier at 8.20pm AEST.
It will be a major moment for Cotton. The six-time NBL Most Valuable Player will pull on the Boomers jersey for the first time after recently becoming eligible through Australian citizenship.
The debut also comes at a fitting venue. Cotton will make his international debut at RAC Arena, the same court where he became one of the biggest stars in Australian basketball with the Perth Wildcats.
Cotton joins a Boomers squad that blends youth, international experience and NBL talent.
Florida Gators star Alex Condon is also set to make his senior international debut after helping lead the college to the 2025 NCAA Championship. Cleveland Cavaliers youngster Tyrese Proctor gets another chance to impress on the national stage, while Mitch Creek adds experience to the group.
The squad also includes Ben Henshall, Elijah Pepper, Keanu Pinder, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, Angus Glover, Taran Armstrong, Jack McVeigh and Josh Bannan.
After the clash with Guam, the Boomers will face the Philippines on Monday, 6 July at 8.20pm AEST.
The FIBA window gives Australia the chance to integrate Cotton into the national program. It also continues the build towards the FIBA 2027 Men’s World Cup in Qatar.
Opals return to home court
The Australian Opals will also feature during the international basketball week, with two matches against China at John Cain Arena in Melbourne.
Australia meets China on Tuesday, 7 July at 5.30pm AEST. The second match follows on Thursday, 9 July at 5.30pm AEST.
Darcee Garbin returns to the Opals side for the first time in two years. She joins an experienced group that includes Cayla George, Steph Reid, Chloe Bibby and Zitina Aokuso.
Townsville Fire stars Alicia Froling, Abbey Ellis and Courtney Woods also line up in the green and gold after strong WNBL campaigns.
Alex Wilson, Alex Fowler and Maddy Rocci suit up after WNBA opportunities, while Isabelle Bourne earns selection after making her senior debut at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup.
Full ESPN basketball schedule
Friday, 3 July
4.50pm AEST – New Zealand v Philippines, ESPN
8.20pm AEST – Australia v Guam, ESPN
Monday, 6 July
4.50pm AEST – New Zealand v Guam, ESPN
8.20pm AEST – Australia v Philippines, ESPN
Tuesday, 7 July
5.30pm AEST – Australia v China, ESPN
Thursday, 9 July
5.30pm AEST – Australia v China, ESPN
All six international matches will be available via Disney+, Foxtel, Kayo Sports, Fetch TV and Sky NZ on ESPN.
TV Central basketball content HERE
