PS: Here are some of my thoughts.
Guards
I see our ability to contain and negate teams with quick and explosive guards (such as Ginobili, Nash, CP3 etc) is going to cause us grief and is a clear weakness. Mills will play decent minutes, but his time to shine will be in 2012. CJ doesn't have the footspeed or defensive skills to contain such players, and the jury is out whether and ageing Smith (if he makes the team) could do a job. I can see other teams emplyoing full court pressure on the Aussies and this will cause trouble.
Small Forward
Australia has some ability, but very much outside-inside players as opposed to inside/out (like Wortho). Solid at best, but will provide value if they can consistently hit from outside. Will gain confidence from big men inside if they are getting the boards.
Centre/Power Forward
With Bogut, Andersen, Anstey and Neilson at least, Australia has great balance, different options and the best depth in the big man dept for years. Should be able to match it with any other front court going at Beijing. May not be able to dominate against the better front courts (USA, Spain for e.g.) but will hold their own at worst. Team will be based around the tall timber. Good news is that Bogut, Andersen play great D.
I think for Australia to be successful, they will have to apply full court pressure and scrap out some games. I would also expect to see some zone defence applied at some stage to try and limit the amount of penetration gained from the quicker and more skilful guards.
Any other thoughts about the Aussies?
What about matchups?
