'Let's set the tone': Goorjian speaks pre-game

Australia is just minutes from hitting the court for the first time this World Cup, and despite playing the third-ranked side in the group – Finland – first up, head coach Brian Goorjian believes this game is crucial in setting the tone for his side.

“The first game’s a tough one and it sets the tone for everything,” Goorjian said pre-game.

“We have good respect for them but confidence in what we’re doing, we’ve had a good lead-in to this, but it presents its challenges and this one’s very important.”

Australia is one of a number of sides who have entered the tournament with realistic ambitions of winning the gold medal.

The United States, Canada, Spain, France, and fellow Group E side Germany have all been touted as possible winners, and there’s pressure on the Boomers to continue to raise its game on the international stage following the Tokyo Olympic bronze from just two years ago.

Goorjian says the goal is always gold within the camp.

“It’s just our culture. It’s not just about now it’s about something that’s taken place over a 12-year period.

“We’ve moved ourselves up to third in the world and we don’t want to look back, the only way forward is the gold.

“That’s been going into Tokyo, and now. Nothing’s changed as we continue, that’s going to always be our standard now.”

Australia’s opening group clash with Finland is live on ESPN, with tip-off commencing at 6pm AEST.