Pepper fires, Okwera impresses as Boomers remain undefeated in Asia Cup qualifiers

Sharpshooting guard Pepper posted a game-high 24 points to go with five assists, five rebounds and two steals as the Boomers defeated Thailand 114-64.

Pepper, coming off an 18-point game against Indonesia on Thursday, earned the praise of Australian coach Jacob Chance for his brilliant series.

“I thought Pep had two great games in the green and gold off the back of his time in Japan with Dean (Vickerman), it’s been really pleasing,” Chance said.

The Shepparton-born Pepper said he was appreciative to play well for his country of birth.

Fellow Perth Wildcats young gun Okwera was excellent at both ends of the floor in a performance which included game-high numbers in rebounds (nine), steals (three) and blocks (two).

Okwera also contributed 11 points to complete an impressive week for the Boomers.

The pair, along with assistant coach Keegan Crawford who was part of the coaching panel, will re-join the Wildcats team ahead of Thursday’s playoff series opener against Melbourne United at John Cain Arena.