Tauihi Basketball to be Broadcast Across the United States on ESPN
Women’s basketball in New Zealand will reach the world’s biggest hoops market from October with the full 2024 G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi season to be broadcast live in the United States on ESPN3.
Similar to the agreement that has seen every game of the Sal’s NBL broadcast live on ESPN3 since 2020, the Tauihi competition will now also reach American fans.
Making the announcement, Sky’s Head of Commercial and Fandom Justin Nelson said the expanding partnership with ESPN in the United States comes at a perfect time for Kiwi women’s basketball with unprecedented fan and viewer numbers being experienced in the WNBA.
“The continued rise of the WNBA in the United States and around the world is incredible, the attendances and viewership are off the scale, and here in New Zealand we are experiencing a similar surge for girls and women’s basketball, so the timing of this move into the American market is perfect,” said Nelson.
“The Tauihi competition is New Zealand’s window to the world, we have a high-level pro league with amazing Kiwi and international players. The global level of talent playing in Tauihi is quite staggering, including many players with links to the WNBA.”
Last year Tauihi saw no less than nine WNBA-connected players enjoy the short and sharp 12-week New Zealand competition. In April this year, Basketball New Zealand and Sky announced the doubling of player wages and a calendar shift with the Tauihi season to be played through October, November and December.
Tokomanawa Queens captain Stella Beck, a Saint Mary’s College alum, believes the opportunity for Tauihi players to be seen on ESPN3 in America is a huge step.
“Having Tauihi amongst some of the great sports on ESPN is very exciting and opens up more doors of opportunity for our aspiring Kiwi athletes,” said Beck.
“I’m thrilled for the potential exposure for our young athletes into the collegiate system, which can provide free tertiary education and a one-of-a-kind athletic experience. Also, for the American players who come into Tauihi, the chance for their family and friends to watch them play in New Zealand is so exciting.”
The 2025 GJ Gardner Homes Tauihi season tips off on Friday October 4 when the Tokomanawa Queens host the Southern Hoiho.
