The next chapter in the legendary TransTasman rivalry begins this Friday night as the Australian Boomers host the New Zealand Tall Blacks in Hobart. This isn't just a friendly it's the crucial opening game of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers. The Boomers fielding a strong NBL led squad are looking to launch their campaign to Qatar with a decisive home win. But New Zealand led by a physically imposing frontcourt arrives determined to pull off an early upset. Tip off for this massive Group A clash is set for 7:30 PM (AEDT) on Friday and we have the full preview and best bet below!
Australia vs New Zealand Betting Tips: Men’s 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers
Boomers Far From Full Strength
This clash marks the opening game of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, adding significant stakes to this perennial showdown. For the Boomers, led by NBL championship-winning coach Dean Vickerman in Adam Caporn's absence, this window is about deepening their impressive talent pool. Without their primary NBA contingent, the squad is heavily NBL-based, featuring key international veterans like Nick Kay (Japan) and Jack White (Turkey), alongside emerging local stars. The Tasmanian faithful will be particularly keen to see how homegrown JackJumper Josh Bannan performs, while players like Jaylin Galloway and Elijah Pepper will look to carry their Asia Cup form into this high-pressure qualifier. The Boomers are always considered heavy favourites in this region, but with a largely unfamiliar group playing on home soil, their focus will be on establishing early chemistry and defensive intensity.
This is a Strong Tall Blacks Outfit
The Tall Blacks arrive with a strong, NBL-heavy roster that should not be underestimated. Coached by Judd Flavell, their squad welcomes back impact players like Yanni Wetzell and Shea Ili, joining captain and Melbourne United forward Finn Delany. They will be looking to leverage the physicality and aggression that secured them a stunning 106-97 win over the Boomers in the final game of the Trans-Tasman Throwdown earlier this year. The presence of multiple proven NBL performers, including the hard-nosed Ili and the returning centers, makes this one of the 'tallest' Tall Blacks squads in recent memory.
Here's Our Prediction!
While the Boomers possess the greater depth and pedigree, the history of this rivalry, especially in this qualifying format, dictates that an easy win is rarely a guarantee. New Zealand’s high-energy, pressure defence and interior size could disrupt Australia’s rhythm, turning this into a grinding affair. Expect a tight contest, fuelled by the home crowd in Hobart, but the Tall Blacks have the personnel to make this much closer than anticipated.
New Zealand +10.5
$1.86 (1.5 Units)
Boomers vs Tall Blacks Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Friday, November 28th, 2025
Time: 7:30pm AEDT
Location: MyState Bank Arena, Hobart
Odds: Australia $1.20 vs New Zealand $4.20
Line: Australia –10.5
Points: 169.5
Where to Watch Boomers vs Tall Blacks
You can watch the Boomers vs Tall Blacks clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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