July 8, 2009

Incoming Saint Louis University men's basketball freshmen Cody Ellis (Perth, Australia) and Christian Salecich (Gold Coast, Australia) helped Australia finish undefeated in group play at the Under-19 FIBA World Championships in Auckland, New Zealand. The Emus won a clash of unbeaten teams when they edged Croatia 79-74 Wednesday, July 8. The victory clinched first place in Group F for Team Australia (6-0).

Ellis, a 6-foot-8 forward, was second on the team with 14 points against Croatia and added four rebounds, two assists, one steal and one blocked shot. Salecich tallied five points, including one 3-pointer, and had one assist. At the end of group play, Ellis ranks second on the Australia squad with 77 points and 31 rebounds. Salecich has added 24 points and handed out eight assists to go along with four steals.

The Emus begin quarterfinal play Friday, July 10, when they take on France. The French finished fourth in Group E play with a 3-3 mark. If Australia wins, it would advance to the semifinals Saturday, July 11, to face the winner of the game between Greece and Argentina.