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Press release from Basketball Australia The Australian young mens basketball team, the Crocs have qualified to play in the 2005 FIBA World Championships for Young Men after sweeping New Zealand 2-0 in their series in Gosford which ended on Saturday night. The Crocs won the second and final game of the 2004 FIBA Oceania Mens U21 Championships at Gosford City Basketball and Sports Stadium, defeating New Zealand 84-54. Following a thrashing on Friday night, New Zealand provided Australia with a far greater challenge on Saturday, cutting the Aussie lead to a mere three points late in the first quarter. The New Zealand squad played with a power and intensity that was not seen in Fridays contest improving their boxing out and rebounding game. Fridays game was fairly balanced on the boards, however New Zealands turnovers proved to be all too costly, allowing Australia to rack up 26 points off ball handling mistakes. New Zealand were still within reach of the Aussies early in the second quarter, until a three-pointer by Brad Newley re-sparked the Australian scoring attack. By the end of the half the Crocs had widened their lead to a solid 29 points. Coach Guy Molloy was thrilled with the victory, and now looks forward to a chance to compete in the World Championships Im very proud of the guys. Weve overcome some injuries and some missing players, and Im pleased with what weve been able to do in just two months of preparation. We were able to forge a team of guys with a great work ethic and attitude, and I cant wait for the World Championships. Australian starter Brad Newley also felt enthusiastic for next July in Argentina. Well, its great and just fantastic. Last year when we won the World Championship with the Emus it was awesome, and I cant wait to do it again! It will be great to have a full squad again, and its great to get over New Zealand. We had a few concerns over the strength of their squad coming into the series. Australias scoring power was led by team captain Aaron Bruce who was on fire with 31 points and an astonishing nine assists. Greg Vanderjagt and Lucas Walker both chipped in with ten points apiece. Vanderjagt also carried the brunt of the rebounding load, raking in eight boards for the Aussie team. Valance McCarthy lead the way for New Zealand with 19 points, and six rebounds, while team-mate Lance Baker added 11 points. Series result  Australia defeated New Zealand 2-0 Game 1  Australia defeated New Zealand 102-44 Game 2  Australia defeated New Zealand 84-54 ** Note - Vandergajt and Newley both playing for the Townsville Crocodiles in the upcoming NBL season.