Boomers legend Luc Longley has lauded Matthew Dellavedova’s match against Serbia in Rio that has helped Australia firm as genuine medal contenders.
The 25-year-old has made a phenomenal start to Australia’s Olympic campaign after helping the Aussies upset France before their 95-80 victory over sixth-ranked Serbia on Tuesday (AEST).
Dellavedova, fresh from his NBA title with the Cleveland Cavaliers, was unstoppable in his 23-point rout which included three three-pointers for an 88 per cent shooting accuracy.
He also made 13 assists and two steals during his 29 minute stint on the court.
“Tonight he seemed really good and I’m sure when I look at the tape he’ll be even better," Longley, who is a Boomers assistant coach, told Fox Sports.
“He does so much that you don’t even pick up ... in the flow of the game he executes the scout, defends the best guy, makes big shots. He’s just a grunt.”
Legendary Australian basketballer Andrew Gaze described Dellavedova’s efforts as one the of the greatest performances in the green and gold.
“We saw one of the all time great performances in the Australian uniform today by Matthew Dellavedova,” he said.
“The way in which he controlled the game – he found Patty Mills when he needed to, found the big fellas, whenever the game got tight he was able to score himself.
“His recent contract for Milwaukee was for $39 million over four years - based on what we saw today he’s underpaid.”
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