Australian Rollers win men’s wheelchair basketball world championship

The Australian Rollers have claimed the men’s wheelchair basketball world championship title after defeating Italy 81–57 in the final held in Ottawa, Canada. This victory marks the program’s third world title, following previous wins in 2010 and 2014, and concludes a perfect, unbeaten tournament run for the Australian team.

Jaylen Brown was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, scoring 28 points in the final with a field goal percentage of 72.2%. Captain Tom O’Neill-Thorne contributed 20 points, 16 assists, and seven rebounds. Head coach Brad Ness attributed the success to a new team system and improved mental preparation implemented over the last several months.

Italy, who also entered the gold-medal game undefeated, struggled to find offensive rhythm, missing all five of their three-point attempts. Australia dominated the matchup, out-rebounding Italy 35–25 and shooting 55 per cent from the field.