Basketball men set for play-offs

The New Zealand men's 3x3 basketballers qualified for the play-offs with good wins over Cayman Islands and Scotland.

Solid wins over Cayman Islands and Scotland moved the increasingly confident New Zealand team into the play-offs.

The New Zealanders beat Cayman

Islands 21-9 and later in the day repelled a strong challenge from Scotland to win 21-13. The men completed their group play with one defeat, by Australia, and four wins.

It was noticeable how much stronger the New Zealand men's team has become over this tournament. Their teamwork and rhythm has improved markedly.

Cayman Islands were overwhelmed by the New Zealand attack and in no time the score raced to 13-2. Josh Book was in lethal form, sinking five of his six two-point attempts.

It looked like the story would be repeated against Scotland when New Zealand stormed ahead 5-1 and 10-5, but a slip in concentration allowed the determined Scots to fight back to 11-11. At that point New Zealand put their foot on the accelerator and eased to victory.

Book, who has had a fine tournament, made four of his five two-point attempts. Aidan Tonge was excellent shooting six from six from the floor, while Christian Martin was strong as ever.

Te Tuhi Lewis said afterwards the team was lifted by all the support in the crowd. 'We were playing the home team in their own house, so that's special. But it didn't really feel like a home game. We New Zealanders can make a lot of noise!'

He said the Scots had good players, but the New Zealand planning had been thorough and they were able to counter the Scottish attacks.