The Australian Rollers are the 2014 IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Champions after defeating the USA 63-57 in the final game to secure back-to-back championships.
Australian Rollers Head Coach Ben Ettridge praised the performance of his players, dropping only one game for the tournament (against the USA) and producing their trademark defence when it mattered most. “I’m absolutely exhilarated,” Ettridge said.
“I’ve got the 12 best guys in the world and I’m so happy for them. I’m proud of the guys, they’re amazing and they have done a great job.”
Tristan Knowles finished with a game-high 17 points (12 in the first half) on 7-of-10 shooting and four rebounds, finding support in the form of Shaun Norris (11 points and six rebounds), Justin Eveson (11 points, nine rebounds and four assists) and Bill Latham (eight points and six rebounds).
“We pride ourselves on our defence and that’s what won it. Every time we play defence it’s a war and today we gave them nothing. We made them shoot from the perimeter and it was our defence that won it.” Ettridge said.