Stadium: Saitama Super Arena, Saitama.
The number one of the FIBA ranking Australia will play their first match at the Olympic tournament against Nigeria. Let’s choose several bets on the game of the first round of the group stage.
Australia are the main favourite of the Olympic Games, according to FIBA
On the eve of the start of the Olympic basketball tournament, the international federation FIBA published a so-called power rating of the participating teams. And, interestingly, the Australian national team was the first in this rating. Spain finished second, with only third place going to the United States.
The Australians have something to fall back on. The team is led by Brian Goorjian, the coach of the Illawarra Hawks, a multiple-time champion and the best coach in Australia. Veteran San Antonio’s Patty Mills, Joe Ingles from Utah Jazz, and Philadelphia’s young talent Matisse Thybulle stand out among the leaders. The NBA will also feature Josh Green from Dallas, veteran Matthew Dellavedova, Aron Baynes, and Dante Exum in the Australian lineup.
In preparation for Tokyo 2021, the Australians played three friendly matches, scoring three wins. First, Argentina was beaten 87-84, then the USA 91-83. After that, the very same Nigerian team was defeated - 108:69.
Nigeria will not give up without a fight
Despite the devastating defeat for Nigeria in a friendly game against Australia, it is too early to draw any conclusions. Especially since the Nigerians have previously beaten both Argentina (94-71) and the United States (90-87). Aside from Australia, Italy and Germany are in Group B.
Mike Brown, the NBA champion as Golden State Warriors’ defensive coordinator, leads the Nigerian national team. Among the leaders are Jahlil Okafor, currently playing for Detroit, Chimezie Metu (Sacramento), Josh Okogie (Minnesota), Gabi Vincent, KZ Okpala, and Precious Achiuwa from the Miami Heat.
Expert Betting Tips
The Nigerian national team should not be underestimated. Mike Brown is one of the best professionals of our time, and it is no coincidence that he has been on the staff of one of the best teams in modern basketball, the Golden State Warriors. At the same time, it’s worth noting that FIBA seems to have decided, without reason, that Australia are the front-runner for the upcoming tournament. What’s the basis? Friendly matches, the result of which is not essential for any self-respecting team? Yes, Australia are a tough team, but no more than that. The Nigerians here seem to have just as much chance of winning.
Betting options:
- Nigeria to win the match for 3.60;
- Nigeria to win with a handicap (+7.5) for 1.90;
- Australia’s Individual Total Under 89.5 for 1.74.