Australia have advanced out of the Group of Death at the FIBA U19 World Cup, thanks to a massive effort from Roman Siulepa.
The Emus took down France early Wednesday morning to officially stamp their ticket to the Round of 16, where they will run into the Dominican Republic with a spot in the quarter-finals on the line.
Siulepa has been one of the tournament's top contributors through the team's first three games, and finished with 19 points and eight rebounds in the must-win clash.
Roman Siulepa impressing for Australia at FIBA U19 World Cup
Roman Siulepa has been one of the biggest names in Australian basketball over the last few years, a tantalising young prospect previously linked to the NBL Next Stars program, as well as a possible future in rugby union.
But with the Queensland-product reportedly set to head to college this year for Pittsburgh, he has given NCAA fans a taste of what to expect, as he has dominated for Australia at the FIBA U19 World Cup.
Siulepa is averaging 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game for the Emus, and is one of just two players to rank in the top five for points and rebounds, alongside Argentina's Tyler Kropp.
He will now prepare to take on the Dominican Republic in the Round of 16, as he and Australia look to win their first U19 World Cup since Andrew Bogut led the nation to victory in 2003.