Unbeaten: Next Star helps Crocs book Round of 16 berth

Australia’s quest to medal at the FIBA U17 World Cup in Turkey continues to build momentum, as they completed an undefeated group stage with a perfect 3-0 record.

The Cross controlled everything from the opening tip against Venezuela, starting with an 8-0 run, before leading by 21 at half-time.

Cairns Taipans Next Star Luke Paul continued to fill the stat sheet, with six points, five rebounds, season assists, three steals and a block.

It was Antonio Browne who led the charge for the Crocs with 17 points and six rebounds.

Australia now enters the round of 16 and will play Slovenia on Thursday, July 2 with tip-off scheduled for 12:30am (AEST)

Australia 75 – Venezuela 47

Stat leaders

Antonio Browne – 17 PTS, 6 REB, 3 AST
Luke Paul – 6 PTS, 5 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL
Alex Mabbott – 7 PTS, 8 REB, 4 BLK

Fixtures

Australia v Serbia: 9:45pm (AEST) Saturday, June 27
Côte d'Ivoire v Australia: 7:30pm (AEST) Sunday, June 28
Venezuela v Australia: 12:30am (AEST) Wednesday, July 1
Slovenia v Australia: 12.30am (AEST) Thursday, July 2 (Round of 16)