photo credit Masanori Udagawa
BNZ Northern Kāhu
If you THINK the Kāhu is looking for a power surge both and off the court in 2024 THEN last week's ownership announcement was just the spark they needed on the eve of the season. A new all-female ownership group has taken control of the Kāhu and they are promising big things with entertainment and fans to be front and center starting with free tickets for home games!! More info here. Bring it on!
Mainland Pouākai
If you THINK Cowles Stadium was a cauldron for the Canterbury Rams this year in the Sal's NBL THEN the Pouākai will be hoping for more of the same during the Tauihi season. Coming off a tough 2023 campaign where only one win was achieved at home (102-61 against a severely under-strength Hoiho) you would think a sharp improvement is on the cards this season. Fill up that cauldron and make some noise Pouākai fans.
Southern Hoiho
If you THINK a tough start could make or break a team in Tauihi THEN all eyes will be on the Hoiho this week. Each team plays two double-headers through the 10-week home and away season (before finals), and it will be the Hoiho on double duty first up. And the test couldn't be bigger with road games against the Queens (Friday) and Kāhu (Sunday).
Tauranga Whai
If you THINK the Whai were big fans of rising star Pahlyss Hokianga last year THEN there is every chance the teenage Tall Ferns guard is in for an even bigger role this season. The Whai have recruited two good international combo guards in Australian Morgan Yaeger and American WNBA star Ashley Joens, but it looks like some good minutes will be available for another player in the back court. Say hello to Pally.
ANZCO Tokomanawa Queens
If you THINK the Queens were looking for a unique way to bond ahead of the Tauihi season THEN the opportunity couldn't have been any bigger or better than their whirlwind trip to China for three games against elite talent from South Korea, Japan and China. The Queens finished the tournament in Haikou with two wins and a loss and look fully prepared for the 12 weeks ahead of them.
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