In a match that will go down as an instant classic, the Australia Boomers survived a late scare to stun the New Zealand Tall Blacks 79–77 thanks to a last second dagger three from Davo Hickey. The result completes a perfect start to the 2025–26 FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers Window 1 for Australia, but only after a chaotic finish that left Kiwi fans stunned.  

🔥 The Clutch Moment

With the Boomers trailing and time winding down, Hickey already the hero of their Hobart win rose to the occasion again. He drained a contested three pointer “off the glass” as the buzzer sounded, swinging what looked like a certain Tall Blacks victory into heartbreak for the home team. The moment sparked wild celebration from the Aussie side and left Wellington in stunned silence.  

Hickey finished with 12 points, but five of those came in the final two minutes as he stood tall when many of Australia’s regulars were unavailable with NBA commitments.  

Standout Performers: Depth Wins the Day

• Big man Keanu Pinder led the Boomers with 21 points and was a defensive force, registering blocks and steals that helped Australia build a 39–37 halftime lead. His scoring and defensive impact set the tone early.  

• Nick Kay – often overlooked in favour of flashier names delivered 20 gritty points, pulled down crucial rebounds, and played a key role in the late game push that allowed Hickey to take the final shot.  

Their combined grit and composure under pressure proved decisive. While New Zealand prevailed on the boards 52–43, Australia’s defence forced 22 turnovers, collected 13 steals and 6 blocks underscoring that this was a win built on hustle and heart.  

Tall Blacks Fight — But Fade in Final Minutes

The Tall Blacks, powered by a second half surge from Sam Mennenga, looked poised to spoil Australia’s undefeated run. Mennenga capped a fiery third quarter which featured a thunderous dunk over Jack White  with 16 points and six rebounds, giving New Zealand momentum heading into the final period.  

But despite dominating the rebounding battle and controlling possession for much of the night, the hosts couldn’t close it out, managing just two field goals in the final 3:58. A technical foul scrum between players late in the game only added to the chaotic atmosphere.  

What It Means for Australia — And What’s Next

The Boomers’ win in Wellington completes a clean sweep of the trans-Tasman series, giving them perfect form through Window 1. It’s a strong statement as they continue their 2027 World Cup qualification campaign.  

With a roster heavy on NBL talent and without relying on NBA stars for these games, the results suggest that Australia’s depth led by guys like Hickey, Pinder and Kay is ready to do the heavy lifting when needed. Coach Dean Vickerman’s message after the win rang loud: this is a team effort 1 through 12 contributing under pressure.  

For the Tall Blacks, the loss will sting. They dominated many statistical categories, yet failed when it counted most. It leaves big questions about closing out tight games, questions New Zealand will need to address quickly if they want to stay in contention this cycle.

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This was the kind of game that reminds fans why international basketball especially Boomers vs Tall Blacks remains a must watch. A high stakes atmosphere, relentless physicality, momentum swings and a buzzer beater to seal it.