Australian basketball fans were left furious and bewildered after a major broadcast failure robbed them of witnessing a thrilling last-second victory by the Boomers. ESPN was forced to issue a public apology after its coverage of the FIBA World Cup qualifier against New Zealand cut out in the final moments, just before Will 'Davo' Hickey's incredible game-winning shot.
The Dramatic Finish No One Saw
The crucial qualifying match in Wellington on Monday night came down to a heart-stopping finale. With the scores locked and the clock expiring, Will Hickey launched a three-pointer that banked in off the glass, securing a miraculous 79-77 win for Australia. This stunning buzzer-beater capped a comeback for the Boomers, who had been trailing the Tall Blacks 75-70 with just over two minutes remaining.
However, the vast majority of viewers subscribed to ESPN's service missed this iconic moment entirely. The broadcast feed cut out abruptly with just over two minutes left on the game clock, immediately after technical fouls were called on Angus Glover and Izayah Le'Afa. The screen went dead, leaving fans in the dark as the Boomers mounted their final, game-winning charge.
Fan Fury and Network Apology
The backlash from the Australian sporting public was swift and severe on social media. Supporters who pay for the service expressed their rage at being denied the climax of a tightly contested international fixture.
One incensed fan labelled the incident "disgraceful," adding that "this happens all too often." Another demanded accountability, writing, "Heads should roll... An incredible buzzer beater but no one saw it." The sentiment was echoed by many who felt disrespected as paying customers, with one describing the error as "pathetic, disgusting and disrespectful."
In response, ESPN took to social media to post a clip of Hickey's winning basket alongside a formal apology. The network stated they were "aware that due to a technical issue the end of the game was not seen for some viewers" and confirmed they were investigating the cause. They added they "deeply apologise for the issue."
Boomers' Perfect Qualifying Start
Despite the broadcast drama, the on-court result was a significant one for the Australian team. The victory makes it two wins from two matches in their qualifying group, following a win over the same New Zealand team in Hobart the previous week.
In other group results, the Philippines have also started strongly with two convincing wins over Guam. Australia's next fixture is scheduled for February against Guam. The top three teams from the four-team group will progress to the next round of qualification for the FIBA World Cup.
While the Boomers celebrated a famous win in Wellington, the episode has left a sour taste for fans and raised serious questions about broadcast reliability for major sporting events. The investigation into the technical failure is ongoing.
