June 26, 2016
Countdown to Manila OQT: 9 days
As reported on the FIBA website, New Zealand has announced on Thursday its final 12 for the 2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila, Philippines.
The 12 players representing the Tall Blacks are Tom Abercrombie, BJ Anthony, Everard Bartlett, Isaac Fotu, Shea Ili, Michael Karena, Rob Loe, Jordan Ngatai, Derone Raukawa, Mika Vukona, Corey Webster, and Tai Webster.
Seven of the 12 players in the Tall Blacks’ final line-up have played in the 2015 FIBA Oceanias Championship. Eight have suited up in the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain.
New Zealand head coach Paul Henare made the decision after the Tall Blacks’ participation in the Altas Tournament in China. The squad is still going to train in Latvia before arriving in Manila for the tournament which kicks off on July 5.
The no. 21-ranked country is in Group B of the Manila OQT along with France and the Philippines. They will begin play in the group phase on July 6 against Gilas Pilipinas.
