Australia completed a narrow sweep of their FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifier series with New Zealand, winning 79-77 on the road on December 1, 2025. In another classic installment of the Trans-Tasman rivalry, the Boomers survived a last-second scare to clinch a two-point victory. The game was a defensive grind, with both teams struggling for easy baskets. Australia held a slight edge for most of the contest, but New Zealand's relentless effort kept them within striking distance. In the final possession, New Zealand had a look at a potential game-winning three-pointer, but the shot rimmed out at the buzzer, allowing Australia to escape with the win. The result solidified Australia's position at the top of their qualifying group.