Thread by @nathanstrempel

BOOMERS APPRECIATION THREAD 1/15: Hearing @AndrewGaze10's emotional post-game tribute to Boomers past and present made me consider that so many supporters also have a #BoomersStory of being inspired by this team and culture. Myself included... #GoBoomers #RGVO

2/15 Playing basketball as a kid for the South Adelaide Panthers, we'd stretch pre-game in 'Mike's Corner'. Named after the legendary Boomer Michael Ah Matt. I knew someone from my club had played for Australia. Could I do that one day too? #GoBoomers #RGVO

3/15 In high school (aspiring towards playing professional basketball) I was captivated by the Boomers of 1996 and 2000 particularly the leadership of @ShaneHeal and @AndrewGaze10. Not knowing at the time, I'd be lucky enough to work with them many years later. #GoBoomers #RGVO

4/15 Working in basketball media meant several players became friends. Cheers to @ChrisAnstey13 @Wortho33 @BradNewley @jacobholmes12 and others, for being great mates but also massive parts of continuing to grow this inspirational @BasketballAus Boomers culture. #GoBoomers #RGVO

5/15 While working at #London2012 I hosted a Foxtel piece with the Boomers and Opals family support crew. Meeting Benny and Yvonne Mills, as well as others, gave me unique insight into what families give to allow their loved ones to pursue greatness. Shout out to Boomer families!

6/15 As the face of the franchise at @MelbUnitedHQ, @ChrisGoulding43 has done so much to promote the @NBL and basketball locally in Australia. He has relentlessly made time for young fans and always spoken brilliantly as an ambassador for the game. #GoBoomers #RGVO

7/15 Even though @daanteee ruptured his ACL while playing for the Boomers, he stayed committed to the program. Including supporting the guys on his 21st birthday at the #FarewellSeries before #Rio2016. How good to see him back on the floor & at his best in the green & gold. #RGVO

8/15 Playing through severe back pain vs NZ in 2015 to qualify for Rio. Cutting short his NBA career to play @NBL so it prolonged his Boomer career & promoted the game locally. @andrewbogut gave so much to the Boomers. It sucks he could be on the floor in Tokyo. #GoBoomers #RGVO

9/15 Since London 2012 @aronbaynes has been a huge presence for the Boomers. So devastating to see a serious in tournament injury rob him of the chance to be on the podium, when he was such a large part of getting us there. Hoping for a swift recovery! #GoBoomers #RGVO

10/15 Maryborough to the NBA @matthewdelly has absolutely set the tone for work rate and getting the maximum out of your ability. 4 years ago he signed a shoe for my then 1 year old. As a result she was glued to Tokyo, regularly referring to Delly as the best player in the world!

So much respect for @Joeingles7. Grinding for years to make the NBA. Breaks through on a big contract, yet never waivers in his commitment to the Boomers (even though Australia was upside down on his 2012 jacket). Went to Rio when his twins were a few weeks old! So happy for him!

12/15 So much has already been said about @Patty_Mills. Played @NBL in 2011 dedicated to boosting passionate fan support. Led all of #London2012 in scoring and proceeded to inspirationally lead the @BasketballAus Boomers ever since. Leading the on court drive towards a medal and

13/15 rapidly growing the fan base in the process, while also leading off court with money, time and a voice championing equality, respect and change. Everyone remembers the night Cathy won gold and now everyone will remember the night Patty had 42 and led us to Rose Gold. #RGVO

14/15 A former Boomer called me before the US semi to thank me for being part of the Boomer journey, yet all of my gratitude and thanks goes to every Boomer past and present. The players deserve all the credit. As supporters it's been such a joy to come along for the ride. #RGVO

15/15 I've loved the many supporters #BoomersStory told as a result of Tokyo. I'm excited to hear more but also what about those just starting now? What a time to follow @BasketballAus Boomers & hoops in general! Future Boomers & Opals inspired by the standard now set of #RGVO