Ahead of the 2025 FIBA U19 Men’s World Cup in Switzerland, Basketball Australia has unveiled a 20-player squad for the Emus team. The selection camp will take place at the Centre of Excellence in Canberra, where Head Coach Robbie McKinlay and his staff will make the final decision on the 12 players who will represent Australia in Lausanne.
Since the inception of the FIBA U19 Men’s World Cup in 1979, Australia has participated in 15 out of 17 tournaments. Notably, Australia stands out as the only non-European/North American nation to have clinched the championship title. The historic victory came in 2003 when a talented U19 team, led by MVP Andrew Bogut, emerged victorious in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Following their momentous win in 2003, Australia’s U19 men have achieved a 4th place finish twice, in 2009 and 2013. This year, the Emus squad is poised to make a strong showing in Switzerland, aiming to build on the legacy of past successes and bring home another title.
The 20-player Emus squad includes talented individuals from various states across Australia. Players such as Emmett Adair from NSW, Mading Kuany from VIC, and Ajak Nyuon from ACT are among the promising young athletes vying for a spot on the final roster. With a mix of experience and emerging talent, the squad is gearing up for intensive training and competition at the upcoming World Cup.
Head Coach Robbie McKinlay, along with Assistant Coaches Joel Khalu and Jacob Jackomas, will be instrumental in guiding the Emus team through the rigorous selection process and preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead in Switzerland. Their expertise and strategic approach will be crucial in shaping a cohesive and competitive squad capable of taking on the world’s best teams.
As the countdown to the FIBA U19 Men’s World Cup draws closer, excitement is building within the Australian basketball community. Fans eagerly anticipate the opportunity to witness the next generation of talent showcase their skills on the international stage. With a rich history of success and a commitment to excellence, the Emus team is ready to make their mark and uphold Australia’s strong basketball tradition at the global level.
Stay tuned for updates on the Emus squad as they embark on their journey to compete in the prestigious U19 FIBA Men’s World Cup, representing their country with pride and determination. The stage is set for an exhilarating display of basketball prowess as Australia’s brightest young stars prepare to shine on the world stage.