Two Australian Boomers Find New NBA Homes
Landale and Mills sign deals
In the midst of the men's basketball Olympic campaign, the NBA's whirlwind start to free agency has involved two of the Boomers' key players.
Australian captain and national flag bearer, Patty Mills agreed to a two-year $16 million deal with Brooklyn Nets.
Hours later, NBL Grand Final MVP Jock Landale agreed to a two-year deal with Mills' former team, the San Antonio Spurs.
Landale had been patient with his NBA opportunity, the 25-year-old missed out on joining a team last season. However, following his work with Melbourne United and recent play on the world stage, the reliable big was bound to be noticed.
For Mills, the deal is a cherry on top of what the veteran has accomplished as a role player with the Spurs. He'll join star player Kevin Durant at the Nets, but not before duelling against him and team USA in the semi final at Tokyo.
On Tuesday evening, Australia marched in their quest for a first ever medal at the Games - defeating Argentina in a perfect display of dominance.
As Australian basketball's most consistent performer, in his fourth Olympics appearance, Mills understands the journey cannot be taken for granted.
“We’re back where we wanted to be and it’s been a long couple of years to get back to this point,” Boomers captain Patty Mills said post-game.
“The message to the team is we haven’t done sh*t yet.
“For us to be the best, we have to beat the best, and we have an opportunity right in front of us to be able to take that step.
The Boomers tackle the formidable American side for a spot in the gold medal match on Thursday afternoon, 2:15pm (AEST), in aim of ending the medal drought once and for all.
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