Tasmania JackJumpers pair Josh Bannan and Taran Armstrong have been called up to represent the Boomers in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in Perth next month.
The two will join a 12-man squad that includes NBL stars Bryce Cotton, Mitch Creek and Tyrese Proctor for games against Guam on July 3 and the Philippines on July 6.
It is Bannan’s fourth call-up to the national squad and Armstrong’s second.
JackJumpers General Manager of Basketball Operations Darren Smith said both players deserved the honour.
“It’s a great privilege to don the green and gold jersey and represent your country, especially on home soil,” Smith said.
“Both Josh and Taran are top tier players, and we know they’ll do themselves and the club proud.”
Smith highlighted Bannan’s standout NBL26 campaign, saying the forward recorded the most “double doubles” in a single season in club history and was named club MVP.
“I’ve no doubt Josh will continue his consistent form after his historic season with the JackJumpers in NBL26,” he said.
Smith said the selection was a chance for Armstrong to stake his claim on the national stage.
“For Taran, this is the opportunity he’s been hungry for, to remind everyone that he’s one of the best that Australia has to offer,” he said.
The full Boomers squad features Armstrong, Bannan, Cotton, Alex Condon, Creek, Angus Glover, Ben Henshall, Jack McVeigh, Elijah Pepper, Keanu Pinder, Proctor and Wani Swaka Lo Buluk.
Both qualifiers will be played in Perth.
