New Zealand Men’s Basketball commenced their 2023 FIBA World Cup journey on August 26th against global giants, Team USA. All teams had to complete a series of exhibition games before the friendly games began. The Tall Blacks faced Jordan and Greece from Group C and both games ended up in losses. However, this was the first game against the USA, which did not end too well for the Kiwis.
The Group C opener concluded with a Team USA victory 99-72. New Zealand played fairly well during the first quarter of the game but the Americans managed to bring out the best selves to win the game. Despite the Tall Blacks trailing by one point following the first quarter, the United States shifted gears thanks to NBA Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero. He finished the game with 21 points while Tyrese Haliburton and Austin Reaves backed up the offense.
The Americans have now taken the lead in Group C while New Zealand Men’s Basketball prepares to take on Greece and Jordan. These games will be streamed on Courtside 1891, Sling, ESPN 2, and ESPN+ as well. Even though they faced a terrible defeat against Team USA during the opener, the Tall Blacks led by Pero Cameron are determined to make a comeback in the upcoming matchups.
Fans react to New Zealand Men’s Basketball Team perform their traditional dance before taking on Team USA
The Kiwis are famously known for having a rich history of culture. Ahead of their tip-off game against the United States, the New Zealand Men’s Basketball Team performed the “Haka” for the crowd in Manila, Philippines. This is a form of dance performed by New Zealand natives that involves heavy rhythmic stomping, robust movements, and shouting. This dance is usually performed during celebrations or as a way to welcome guests.
The Haka is performed by people who follow the Māori culture. Fans at the Mall of Asia Arena were excited to the athletes put on a show before taking on the court. Some fans appreciated the Kiwis’ welcoming gesture while some trolled them for miserably losing against the USA. One fan said, “I wish they do it once and win.” Another fan said, “This sh*t is always cool.”
I wish they do it once and win
— Sooon 📖 (@sooon_eth) August 26, 2023
This shit is always cool
— mrzlatan (@JefiaNefe) August 26, 2023
Despite the loss, Reuben Te Rangi still performed as expected recording 15 points. Finn Delany scored 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Unfortunately, the Tall Blacks shot terribly from the field. They averaged 36.5% on 74 attempts while the USA put up 59.3% on fewer attempts. New Zealand’s shot accuracy was not intact. Defensively, they had only 7 steals while USA dominated within the paint as well.