Rollers capture first wheelchair basketball world title in 12 years
Australia has defeated 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.
The result capped an unbeaten campaign for the Rollers in Ottawa, with the Australians proving again they are a giant of international wheelchair basketball by adding to their previous triumphs in 2010 and 2014.
Jaylen Brown played a starring role, scoring a game-high 28 points.
Captain Tom O'Neill-Thorne made a significant contribution on the scoreboard with a 20-point haul.
O'Neill-Thorne also managed 16 assists and seven rebounds in an outstanding all-around display.
Bill Latham provided valuable support with 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists.
The Rollers had an answer to every challenge posed by the Italians. (IWBF)
Italy had entered the gold-medal game with an undefeated record.
But the Rollers were in command from the opening quarter and led at every break.
They dominated Italy with 29 assists to 19 and out-rebounded their opponents 35-25.
The Rollers' defensive intensity shone through as they forced 13 turnovers and only conceded nine of their own.
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