By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Pau Gasol had an amazing game (31 p., 11 r.) and Sergio Rodriguez (11 p., 5 as.) had a key role and the most two crucial free throws as Spain beat 89-88 Australia in an amazing semifinal game.
The Boomers gave their heart on the floor, Patty Mills scored 30 points, David Andersen added 15 and they had the chance to win, having the ball in the last 5 seconds in their hand. However, it has to be noted that the call which decided the outcome, a foul in favor of Rodriguez, is highly debatable and played a major role to the outcome.
This doesn’t mean that Spain and majestic Pau didn’t deserve the win, but the Australians who once more couldn’t get an Olympic medal have a case.
Despite a 40-28 lead for Spain four minutes before the end of the first half, Australia managed to cut the lead to two (40-38) at half time thanks to a 10-0 lead. After that, the Spaniards managed to keep a small lead, but the game was open to any result.
The third period ended with Spain leading 67-64, still in the 32nd minute the score was tied at 70 after a big dunk by Brock Motum. The two teams continued side by side and after 13 lead changes with 41 seconds left Spain had a one point advantage (85-84). Mills missed his shot, but veteran Andersen got the offensive rebound and the foul. The tree times Euroleague champ made his free throws (86-85), but then Gasol was fouled with 28.8 seconds left on the clock.
The Spanish star also made his two shots (87-86), Australia got the ball and Aron Baynes made his shot, just 9.7 seconds left before the buzzer. Sergio Rodriguez got the ball and the questionable call over Mills. He went to the line, he gave the lead to Spain (89-88), but Australia had the last possession and 5.4 seconds to win the game. Still they couldn’t get a shot off against Spain’s defense.
