“The pace is good! The pace is good!” barked Boomers coach Brian Goorjian during a second quarter time-out, and it’s hard to argue with him (not that you would, he is a fearsome 71-year-old bloke).

The Boomers quick movement just about got them through Canada’s mean defence, with scoring coming from all quarters. Duop Reath got his first minutes of the Olympics (maybe Goorjian does read all our comments online?) and quickly found himself on the scoresheet.

Dyson Daniels held his own against RJ Barrett in the post with a clutch rejection, then scored a scandalous finger-roll down the other end. He has been impressive.

We have only seen glimpses of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but they are terrifying glimpses. He’s got 10 points on reduced foul-affected minutes. This will be an arm wrestle, but Josh Giddey (15 points) and Patty Mills (8 points) are in the mood.

So much to be excited about, so much to fear, Australia extend their lead to four points, 49-45 at the half-time break.