The scoreline of 83-48 in favour of Spain suggests the Kiwis were hammered in their first ever Fiba U17 World Cup game.
In fact New Zealand went toe for toe with their illustrious opponents until midway through the third quarter. Trailing 43-36 they were well in the contest but from there things went downhill as the Ferns were outscored 40-12 in the last 15 minutes, committing far too many turnovers.
Plenty to be encouraged about with strong contributions from Jazz Kailahi-Fulu, Tayla Dalton, Tara Manumaleuga, Charlisse Leger-Walker and Sharne Pupuke-Robati.
LACEY LOWDOWN 