The New Zealand Men came up just short in the opening game of the Australian Under 18 State Championships losing 82-80 to Victoria Country. However the Under 18 Women had an encouraging 74-66 victory over Queensland North.
Leading scorers for the Men were Counties forward Sioeli Vaiangina (17pts) and Nikau McCullough (13pts). Harbour’s Matt Freeman led the rebounding count for the Kiwis with 8 boards to go with a dozen points.
The New Plymouth pair of Connie Poletti and Kayla Manuirirangi led the NZ Womens effort. Poletti was a monster on the boards for the Women grabbing 13 rebounds as well as adding 9 points. Manuirirangi paced the team with 16 points and was ably supported by Michelle Nicholls (14pts) and Harbour point guard Tiarna Clarke (13pts).
Tomorrow the Men face Queensland South and the Women play Western Australia Metro.
LACEY LOWDOWN 