LACEY LOWDOWN

The Tall Blacks enjoyed a reasonably light final training session prior to a late night flight to South Korea on Saturday night.

A couple of veterans, Casey Frank and Nick Horvath sat out the session to rest niggling injuries. They were rewarded with the dubious honour of having to referee the twenty-minute scrimmage at the end of the practice, not a task anyone relishes.

The white team got off to a 12-3 start and led until the buzzer went off at the end of the game. Unfortunately for them a Jarrod Kenny three entered the net at the same time as the buzzer went sounded, the black team grabbing the win.

The white team were ex Westlake Boys plus BJ Anthony. The Webster brothers, Penney, Loe and Abercrombie built a double-digit lead.

Everard Bartlett scored 8 straight points to lead the black team comeback. He, Vukona, Wynyard, Kenny, Fotu and Tait headed to the airport with the broader smiles.

Some random thoughts:

Could we see an all ex Westlake starting five at some stage of the campaign?  Webster T, Webster C, Penney, Abercrombie and Loe would have to play small ball but it would be quick and exciting.

Tony Webster was coaching North Harbour Under 23’s over on court two at the Breakers as the Tall Blacks were being put through their paces on court one. As a parent you would be extremely proud to see one son (or daughter) put on the black singlet but to see both boys suit up must be a special feeling. Congrats to Tony and Cherry.

Tai Wynyard continues to impress. The 16 year old has a great feel for the game and is blessed with, size, agility, and strength. Some of his finishing at the hoop was classy and eye catching. If Pledger doesn’t make it surely think Tai will.

Talking of big Alex, he is moving a lot better. He’s still wearing a cushioned boot to protect the injured big toe but he feels he is making good progress. It’s a race against time for the seven footer!

With thirty-five days to go before the Tall Blacks face Turkey on the opening day of the World cup in Spain there is still plenty for the players and coaches to contemplate.