Basketball: Boomers select Nathan Sobey in Olympic squad

Nathan Sobey’s standout NBL form for the Brisbane Bullets has prompted Boomers coach Brian Goorjian to add him to the squad for the Tokyo Olympics after originally being a controversial omission.

Sobey was shattered to miss out on the Boomers’ original 24-man squad for the Games this July and August.

But instead of complaining, he preferred to let his basketball do all the talking.

Sobey has certainly fulfilled his promise to star for Brisbane. He is ranked second in the league averaging 22 points per game and has achieved double figures in all 29 games. He has been equally as impressive in defence averaging more than four steals per game and 4.6 rebounds.

Nathan Sobey is back in Boomers contention. Picture: Jono Searle/Getty ImagesSource:Getty Images

Goorjian said Sobey’s impressive performances throughout the 2020-21 NBL season forced him to select the shooting guard.

“Nathan’s dominance and sustained consistency this season has been outstanding and led to his call up to the Boomers squad,” Goorjian said.

“I know that he was really disappointed at missing the initial squad, but this didn’t deter him, and the way that he has responded and taken his game to another level is a lesson for all players, and he thoroughly deserves this opportunity.

“It’s great recognition and reward for Nathan and the Bullets who have provided a platform to excel.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do when he joins our squad in that environment.”

Sobey, a member of Australia’s 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup team, feels blessed to earn a Boomers recall.

“It is always a special opportunity to have the chance to represent your country, and I am very grateful to be picked for the squad,” Sobey said.

“I was disappointed to miss out initially but chose to work harder and was really focused on playing well for Bullets each week and leading by example.”

When Sobey was originally left out of the Boomers’ squad, he remained positive and hopeful.

This determination is a credit to his resilience.

“Things can change,” he said at the time.

“It is definitely frustrating, and it isn’t the conversation you want to have, but I’ll put it in the back of my mind and continue to do what I do.”

Nathan Sobey is leading by example. Picture: Jono Searle/Getty Images.Source:Getty Images

Bullets head coach Andrej Lemanis, who coached Sobey when he was Australian coach, is delighted to see the guard rewarded for his efforts and season so far.

“This is great recognition for the season Nathan is having and reflective of the growth we have all seen in him as a player and person,” Lemanis said.

“It is also a great example for all those who encounter disappointment along their journey that you have a choice as to your response. Blame and excuses are one choice, setting your mind to working and improving is another. It’s clear which one gives you the best chance to change your circumstances in a positive manner. I’m thrilled for Nathan and for our club.”

In February, Basketball Australia announced a 24-man squad for Tokyo 2020 led by Joe Ingles and Patty Mills.

The Boomers’ pre-Olympic training camp will take place in the USA during July, with specific details yet to be finalised.

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