U17 Boys Create History with Gold at Oceania Cup

The New Zealand U17 Boys have made history in Samoa, claiming gold at the FIBA U17 Oceania Cup with a huge win over Australia in the final.

After a tough earlier loss to the Australians in the round games, the Junior Tall Blacks showed real grit and growth across the tournament. They bounced back in emphatic style, including a dominant semi-final performance against host nation Samoa, before delivering when it mattered most in the gold medal match.

The final was tightly contested early, but New Zealand pulled away in the second half with confident team basketball, strong defence and plenty of composure under pressure. Hoani Ifopo-Togia was outstanding throughout the tournament and was named MVP, with big contributions also coming from Cole Hopoi and Cooper Adams.

This result marks the first time a New Zealand U17 boys team has won gold at an Oceania Cup, a massive milestone for the programme and a proud moment for basketball in Aotearoa.

An incredible achievement for the players, coaches and support staff - history well and truly made.