New Zealand completed a sweep of the second window, dominating Guam to even its record in Group A of the FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers on Sunday at the University of Guam Field House.
The Tall Blacks, who dropped both of their games against the Australian Boomers in Window 1, are now 2-2. Moreover, they gave Gilas an assist as Guam’s loss paved the way for the Philippines joining Australia in Round 2.
Gilas Pilipinas (2-1) and the Boomers (3-0) were still in action at the SM Mall of Asia Arena at the time of publishing.
(C) FIBA
For this game, New Zealand rotated its lineup, resting veterans Carlin Davison, Tyrell Harrison, Yanni Wetzell, Sam Mennenga, and Tohi Smith-Miner. Instead, in came young talents Jack Andrew, Jackson Ball, Kruz Perrott-Hunt, and Sam Timmins.
Andrew stood out among the newcomers, finishing with 20 points on 9-of-10 shooting along with nine rebounds. Keanu Rasmussen, making his Tall Blacks debut this window, added 14 points.
It was a commanding performance for New Zealand, who led for all but 50 seconds of the contest. Their biggest lead reached 32 points.
Reuben Te Rangi contributed 15 points, while Max Darling added 11 points in just 16 minutes.
(C) FIBA
Guam’s Jericho Cruz played only three minutes.
Jonathan Galloway led Guam with 20 points, while Takumi Simon scored 19. BJ Freeman and Ben Borja chipped in 11 points each.
New Zealand will host the Philippines to open Window 3 on July 3, while Guam travels to Australia.
