The New Zealand Men's National Basketball Team is composed of senior men's players. The team is commonly referred to as the Tall Blacks. This is one of several nicknames associated with the All Blacks. The team has achieved several accomplishments during its existence, including three FIBA Oceania Championships and two Summer Olympic Games appearances. In 2017, the team competed in its inaugural FIBA Asia Cup, where it achieved fourth place.
The New Zealand men's national basketball team represents New Zealand at international level. They competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympics and qualified for the FIBA World Championship in 2002, where they finished fourth. The Tall Blacks also qualified for the 2004 Athens Olympics, and finished tenth in the tournament, losing in the playoff to Australia. In 2006, they qualified for the World Cup 2006 but did not repeat the fourth-place finish in the tournament.
In 2011, New Zealand competed at the 2011 BOSNI STANKOVIC CUP in China, where they faced tough opponents such as China, Russia, and Angola. New Zealand lost the first game to Russia but won the second game against China. New Zealand then went on to defeat Angolan to reach the final, where they defeated Russia to win the gold medal with the help of Kirk Penney’s 30 points.
New Zealand announced its 21-player roster on June 29, 2023. Their FIBA World Cup squad includes Corey Webster, Dan Fotu, Isaac Fotu, Finn Delany, Flynn Cameron, Hyrum Harris, Jordan Hunt, Ethan Rusbatch, Izayah Leafa, Jordan Ngatai, Kruz Perrott-Hunt, Tai Webster, Reuben Te Rangi, Shea Ili, Sam Timmins, Sam Mennenga, Taine Murray, Walter Brown, Taylor Britt, Tohi Smith-Milner, and Yanni Wetzell.
Kiwi NBA players in FIBA World Cup 2023
There is no NBA player in the current NBA squad, but Corey Webster could make a significant impact in the FIBA World Cup. Webster, a 6'2" shooting guard, currently plays for the New Zealand Breakers in the ANBL, the premier basketball league in Australia and New Zealand. He has displayed exceptional scoring abilities throughout his career, known for his three-point shooting and ability to create his shot. Webster's offensive firepower and quickness make him a vital asset for New Zealand's national team in the World Cup. Taine Murray, another Kiwi player, played for the University of Virginia in September 2020.
New Zealand, also known as the "Land of the Long White Cloud," has witnessed the rise of a talented NBA player who could potentially represent the country in the FIBA World Cup 2023. In recent years, New Zealand has been gradually progressing in the international basketball scene. With talented players like Corey Webster, the Kiwi national team has a chance to showcase their skills and make an impact on the global stage in the FIBA World Cup 2023.
Some players have previously represented New Zealand at the international level and have made a name for themselves in the NBA. One prominent Kiwi NBA player is Steven Adams. Adams, a 7-foot center, has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the New Orleans Pelicans, and currently the Memphis Grizzlies. Known for his superior rebounding skills and defensive prowess, Adams brings a physical presence to the court. Furthermore, Adams' experience playing alongside some of the best talents in the NBA has undoubtedly sharpened his skills and ability.
The World Cup provides an opportunity for New Zealand to display their basketball prowess and compete against some of the best teams in the world. It will be exciting to see how the Kiwi players perform and represent their homeland in this prestigious tournament.
It is important to note that the final roster selections for the FIBA World Cup are made by Basketball New Zealand (BBNZ). The BBNZ considers various factors, including player availability, form, and team dynamics when choosing the national team.
FAQs
A. Adams will not be playing in FIBA World Cup 2023 due to his knee injury.
A. There have been three New Zealand players in the NBA.
