AIA Roars Past Tasmanian All-Stars

HOBART, Australia--It was below freezing outside the Dewent Entertainment Centre, and it wasn't much warmer inside for the exhibition between Athletes in Action and the Tasmanian All-Stars. The official scorer even completed her duties while wearing a full winter coat, scarf, and gloves. Despite the cold temperature, the shooting from the Americans was anything but in the 125-92 victory.

AIA controlled the pace of the game from the beginning, but only held an 8 point first quarter margin. However, a near flawless second period opened up the game. AIA only turned the ball over once in the second 12 minutes and rode ten Ray Shafer points to a 67-42 Halftime lead. Oregon's Shafer scored 16 of his game high 24 in the first half. AIA shot 59% from the floor in the first half and limited the Aussies to only 38%.

Tasmania made a run to start the second half, pulling to within 15. But once back on track, the margin once again grew. In all, seven AIA players scored in double figures led by Shafer and Texas A&M's Josh Carter (19 Points). Colorado Christian's Brian Stamer added 15 points and 12 rebounds. Wes Johnson of Iowa State also finished with 15. Luke Zeller of Notre Dame finished with 12 while Whitney Robinson and Miami's Jimmy Graham added 11. Zeller, Graham, and Shafer each had eight rebounds. AIA out-rebounded the Tassie All-Stars 67-39 for the game scoring 20 second chance points to the Aussie's two.

AIA travels to Perth on Wednesday before the first of three games with the NBL Perth Wildcats on Thursday.