Josh Giddey Growing as a Lead Guard Through FIBA Play

Team Australia is running the offense through Josh Giddey, and it's helping the Thunder's guard grow as a player.

Josh Giddey and Jack White took the court for Team Australia in another exhibition match before the real games start. It was a nice tuneup for the Aussies, who proved they belong internationally. In the process, the squad also got close-game experience, which is invaluable heading into FIBA play.

Team Australia knocked off France, a basketball powerhouse overseas, in a close 78-74 contest. It took a bit of magic at the end and some extra effort from Giddey to get the job done.

The Thunder point guard struggled to shoot the ball, but found a way to impact the game and help his team win. He totaled 12 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals on 4-of-14 shooting.

With the game on the line, tied 72-72 with less than a minute, Rudy Gobert grabbed a rebound to give France one of the last possessions. Before he had time to react, Giddey reached up and ripped it out of his hands, and passed the ball to Patty Mills who drilled a turnaround jumper.

Giddey’s effort and added strength allowed for the impressive steal, and helped seal the win for team Australia. His strength and confidence have noticeably increased during International play this summer.

Another important area that Giddey has grown in, is getting to the free throw line. During his sophomore season in Oklahoma City, the point guard averaged just 1.9 free throw attempts per game. With Team Australia this summer, he’s up to 6.0 attempts per contest.

His inability to get to the free throw line was one of the only knocks left surrounding his game. He made huge leaps all across the court a season ago, but couldn't quite find any extra help at the charity stripe. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander improving his game at the line so much, it was even more noticeable. But Giddey's FIBA start is an encouraging sign for the Thunder and his development.

His improvement as a lead guard and growing confidence in his game will only help the Thunder this upcoming season. Next to Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, his passing abilities will really shine through.

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