Even though France had already clinched its spot in the quarterfinals of the 2019 FIBA World Cup prior to Monday’s action, its matchup with Australia on Monday was significant.
The team that won would avoid a quarterfinal matchup with the United States, assuming it eliminated Brazil in the final game of the second round (which they ended up doing), while the loser would be forced to try their luck against the Americans.
In what turned out to be one of the more competitive games in the tournament thus far, Australia edged France, 100-98. Therefore, the French will square off against the USA in the next round, while the Australians will take on the Czech Republic, which advanced as a result of the Americans defeating Brazil.
Evan Fournier, who is getting ready to begin his sixth season with the Orlando Magic, did all that he could do to try and keep France unbeaten, erupting for 31 points on 11-of-23 shooting from the field. Nando de Colo was also spectacular, posting 26 points on 11-of-16 shooting.
With the French down by two after Matthew Dellavedova buried a pair of free throws on Australia’s prior possession, de Colo converted on a layup to even the score with 16 seconds left. Dellavedova, staying aggressive, initiated contact again on Australia's next trip down the floor, making one of two at the stripe to put his team back in front.
France was then unable to get a shot off on its final possession, as Andrew Albicy’s inbounds pass intended for de Colo was stolen by Patty Mills.
Mills exploded for 30 points for Australia, which shot 58 percent from the field, while Joe Ingles, who connected on a critical driving layup with just over a minute left, scored 23. Nicolas Batum, who finished with 13 points, was the only other French player besides Fournier and de Colo to score in double figures.