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Sabitra Bhandari is a new recruit for the Wellington Phoenix in the A-League PHOTO: WELLINGTON PHOENIX The Phoenix have secured the signature of Nepal women’s captain Sabitra Bhandari for the next two A-League seasons. Bhandari, 29, has been a prolific goal scorer for both club and country. LATEST HEADLINES: Changes to All Blacks for 3rd Test Black Caps beat South Africa in T20 Tall Ferns lose to China, Asia Cup Stags defeat Hurricanes in Gsl T20 Grace Jale to re-sgns with Phoenix The striker, popularly known as Samba, has scored 66 goals in 60 matches for Nepal, including remarkably netting three hat-tricks in three matches in the recent AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualification tournament. She found the back of the net more than 60 times in just 24 matches in the Indian Women’s Super League, helping secure a move to En Avant Guingamp in France, where last year she became the first Nepalese player to play and score in a top European league. Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd believes the Phoenix have signed “a proven goal scorer of exceptional calibre”. “We are proud to welcome Sabitra to the Phoenix whānau and look forward to the impact she will make both on and off the field,” Shepherd said. “She has demonstrated her abilities against some of the best players in the world in France, and brings a wealth of international experience and attacking prowess to our squad. “Sabitra is a national icon in Nepal and the country's all-time leading goal scorer, and her leadership, experience, and on-field excellence will be invaluable both on and off the pitch. “Her natural movement, intelligent link-up play, and clinical finishing are qualities we believe will significantly enhance our effectiveness in the final third. Her presence promises to add a new dimension to our attacking play. “Beyond her footballing talents, Sabitra’s inspiring journey, determination, and deep love for the game resonate strongly with the values of our club. “Her story is one our fans — both long-time supporters and newcomers — will undoubtedly connect with.” Bhandari can’t wait to get to Wellington for the start of pre-season training in September. “I am really excited to come to the Phoenix, score lots of goals and make the fans super happy,” Bhandari said. “When I heard about the Phoenix’s ambitions for next season, it was easy for me to make the decision to join.” Sabitra Bhandari is the 17th player confirmed in the Wellington Phoenix women’s squad for the 2025-26 A-League, with further signings and re-signings to follow in the coming weeks

Ruben Love gets his chance against the French in multiple changes for the All Blacks PHOTO: FOTOSPORT HIROYUKI IRIE/LINTOTT PHOITOGRAPY Plenty of changes to the All Balcks for the third test against France in Hamilton with seven players in the 23 named for the first time this season. Hooker Brodie McAlister will become the sixth debutant of the season if he comes off the bench to replace starting hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Caps beat South Africa in T20 Tall Ferns lose to China, Asia Cup Stags defeat Hurricanes in Gsl T20 Grace Jale to re-sgns with Phoenix Inexperienced Tall Blacks named Prop Tyrel Lomax, loose forward Luke Jacobson and backs Anton Lienert-Brown and Sevu Reece have all returned from injury to take a spot in the starting line-up, while Ruben Love will earn his second All Blacks cap playing at fullback. In the reserves, prop George Bower, loose forward Dalton Papali’i and halfback Noah Hotham will all pull on the black jersey for the first time in 2025. Head Coach Scott Robertson said there was a healthy edge in the camp this week, knowing that the French will throw everything at this final game of the series. “There is high motivation and focus to perform in Hamilton this week. We are prepared for a determined and spirited French side, and excited to play in front of a passionate sold-out crowd. “We are thrilled to welcome Tyrel, Luke, Anton and Sevu back from injury and, with 185 caps between them, we know that they will be ready to perform at the highest level. It is also exciting to have Brodie debuting, as well as Ruben, Noah and Timoci adding to their single All Blacks cap. These men have earned their place in the team, have trained extremely hard over the last three weeks, and will take their opportunity on Saturday night.” This Saturday will be the first time the All Blacks have played France in Hamilton. France have played two previous games in Hamilton in 1961 and 1979, both against Waikato. Waikato won both games, so France have never won in Hamilton. All Blacks : 1. Ethan de Groot, 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3. Tyrel Lomax, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (vc), 5. Fabian Holland, 6. Samipeni Finau, 7. Ardie Savea (c), 8. Luke Jacobson, 9. Cortez Ratima, 10. Damian McKenzie, 11. Rieko Ioane, 12. Quinn Tupaea, 13. Anton Lienert-Brown, 14. Sevu Reece, 15. Ruben Love. Bench: 16. Brodie McAlister, 17. George Bower, 18. Fletcher Newell, 19. Dalton Papali’i, 20. Du’Plessis Kirifi, 21. Noah Hotham, 22. Timoci Tavatavanawai, 23. Will Jordan Unavailable due to injury: Tamaiti Williams (knee); Wallace Sititi (ankle); Scott Barrett (calf); Caleb Clarke (ankle); Tupou Vaa’i (concussion); Beauden Barrett (hand)

James Watt is continuing his rise on teh ATP singles and doubles rankings PHOTO: MORELOS OPEN South Canterbury's James Watt has been defeated in the first round of the main draw at the Granby Challenger in Quebec but put in a huge match against his much higher ranked opponent. Watt who has taken his ATP singles ranking to 608 and up to 149 in doubles won two matches in qualifying. LATEST HEADLINES: Fox with Major winners at The Open Black Ferns break ground in Republic Tall Ferns score big win over Indonesia Kurt Capewell returns to Warriors side Phoenix sign Nigerian striker Ifeanyi Eze He was then draw against Danish hotshot, August Holmgren who reached the third round at Wimbledon recently as a qualifier and has a current singles ranking of 146. Twenty-five-year-old Watt lost the 2-hour 34-minute contest 7-6(4), 6-7(3), 6-3 to Holmgren but still gets four ATP ranking points for qualifying which will be a good boost. Watt and Finn Reynold won their first-round doubles match as top seeds defeating Australian Omar Jasika and Canadian Kelsey Stevenson 7-5, 6-4 They'll face a Japanese pair in the quarterfinals. Reynolds who is at 132 in doubles rankings and Watt have won three ATP Challenger titles so far in 2025.

Curtis Heaphy was Player of the Match for Central Districts against the Hobart Hurricanes. PHOTO: GSLT20 Central Districts have won their first T20 match outside New Zealand, beating Australia’s Big Bash champion the Hobart Hurricanes in the Global Super League in Guyana by 16 runs. Central had to survive a dangerous late charge from Afghan star Mohammad Nabi who blasted 43 off 35 balls to give the Hurricanes an outside chance. LATEST HEADLINES: Grace Jale to re-sgns with Phoenix Inexperienced Tall Blacks named James Watt moves up ATP rankings Fox with Major winners at The Open Black Ferns break ground in Republic The Hurricanes had needed 19 runs off the last six balls, but Nabi fell at the start of the final over to sharp-eyed paceman Blair Tickner. Tickner realised that Nabi had, somewhat unluckily, smacked his first delivery in the clutch over into his own boot, the ball looped up and Tickner appealed as he collected it. Tickner (2-34) then struck again, two balls later, to effectively seal the deal for a special win. On a fresh deck under lights, Central captain Tom Bruce had earlier decided to break with form — batting first for the first time at the Global Super League, after winning the toss for a third consecutive time. Then he showed exactly how it was done, top-scoring with 62 off just 36 balls in a competitive total of 167-4. Central are bottom of the table at the GSL, but that was the highest team total by any team so far at this year’s tournament. Bruce's his half century off 28 balls - equalled the all-time tournament record for the fastest half century and was the second highest knock by anyone so far in this year’s league . It recalled the commanding Super Smash form that saw him lift the national trophy earlier this year, and the Stags were on their way to a special payday. Bruce had come in after another promising start from Black Cap Will Young (24 off 18) had been nipped in the bud during the power play. But although the Hurricanes took three wickets inside the first eight overs, Bruce and Curtis Heaphy took control of the rest of the innings with their 113-run fourth-wicket stand, conjured up off just 73 deliveries. Bruce fell to Odean Smith at the death, but Central's West Indian overseas signing Matthew Forde — striking at 190.00 for the tournament — strode in and nervelessly belted 14 runs off just three balls (including two sixes) to top up the CD's total. Heaphy meanwhile finished unbeaten on 50* off 38 balls, having found the rope six times as he raced to the second T20 half-century of his emerging career. The 21-year-old from Manawatū was making his maiden GSL appearance, having carried the drinks in Central's previous two matches. CD lost to Dubai Capitals and Guyana Amazon Warriors earlier in the tournament which perhaps led Bruce decide to bowl second overcoming a significant dew factor in the second innings. Dane Cleaver became the first player to reach the 100-cap milestone for Central Districts, and the victory gives them a tournament lifeline — albeit needing other results to fall their way. Central have one round to come against the defending GSL champion, Bangladesh’s Rangpur Riders, early on Friday morning (NZT). Tickner and off-spinner Angus Schaw are both among the top five wicket-takers at the tournament while Bruce has shot up the leaderboard in the batting stakes. Teams in the Global Super League receive US$25,000 (NZ$41,200) for each win in the rapid fire group stage, with a further US$250,000 if they make the final and lose, and US$500,000 (NZ$824,000) if they win the July 19 final.

The Black Caps celebrate taking a South African wicket PHOTO: ICC A good start to the T20 Tri Series for New Zealand in Harare, Zimbabwe with a 21-run victory over South Africa. Batting first the Black Caps made 173-5 with Tim Robinson leading the way at first drop with 75 not out from 57 balls including three sixes and six fours. LATEST HEADLINES: Tall Ferns lose to China, Asia Cup Stags defeat Hurricanes in Gsl T20 Grace Jale to re-sgns with Phoenix Inexperienced Tall Blacks named James Watt moves up ATP rankings Bevon Jacobs was 44 not out from 30 balls batting down the order while Tim Seifert opened with 22 runs as the only players to reach double figures. Devon Conway made nine, Daryl Mitchell five, Mitch Hay two and Jimmy Neesham non score. At bat South Africa were dismissed for 152 with 10 balls to spare as Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry tore the Proteas apart. Duffy with figures of 3-20 from his four overs and Henry 3-34 from 3.2 overs while Ish Sodhi took two and Mitch Santner one wicket each. There was also one run out.

A struggle for the Tall Ferns to defend at the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup PHOTO: FIBA ASIA CUP The Tall Ferns have been well-beaten by tournament favourites China 85-51 at the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup in Shenzhen. New Zealand showed early promise, particularly on the defensive end, where they worked hard to contain China’s towering frontcourt duo of Han Xu and Zhang Ziyu. Ritorya Tamilo even made a block on Zhang, highlighting the Tall Ferns determination.. LATEST HEADLINES: Stags defeat Hurricanes in Gsl T20 Grace Jale to re-sgns with Phoenix Inexperienced Tall Blacks named James Watt moves up ATP rankings Fox with Major winners at The Open Despite the strong start, China’s Shuyu Yang ignited the home crowd with two early three-pointers, sparking a run that saw the hosts pull ahead. Xu and Ziyu eventually found their rhythm, combining for 10 points and helping China build a 15-point lead by the end of the quarter. The second quarter saw China’s Liwei Yang shift into high gear, scoring five straight points to stretch the home side’s lead to 22. But the Tall Ferns kept trying with Emme Shearer knocking down a three-pointer, capitalising on back-to-back offensive rebounds. Although China’s lead remained firm, getting contributions from each of their players. McKenna Dale’s deep three with under four minutes left in the half gave the Tall Ferns a spark. Moments later Dale she made her presence felt on the defensive end of the floor, timing a superb transition block that silenced the home crowd momentarily. Pahlyss Hokianga added a touch of finesse with a beautiful double-pump reverse layup near the end of the half, but despite their grit and determination, the 2degrees Tall Ferns trailed by 19 at halftime. The third quarter began with Bec Pizzey sinking a shot followed by Shearer with her second to kick start the Tall Ferns scoring. However, China’s 7’3” Zhang Ziyu began to assert herself, finding ways to score despite the Tall Ferns’ relentless and physical defence. China quietly pieced together a 12-0 run to take control of the quarter, before Tayla Dalton broke the streak with a much-needed bucket. Charlotte Whittaker found some rhythm in the post, adding a couple of solid buckets, but the Chinese continued to build momentum. By the end of the third, the home side had extended their lead to a commanding 28 points. Tamilo opened the fourth quarter with a strong move to the rim, finishing through contact and converting the three-point play at the line. Despite her efforts, a pair of Chinese three-pointers helped stretch the lead even further. Whittaker responded with a deep mid-range jumper and later became the only kiwi to reach double digits, thanks to a beautiful fast-break dime from Ashlee Strawbridge. Hokianga added valuable points late in the quarter, lifting her personal tally to seven, but China’s depth and firepower proved too much in the final minutes, as they pulled away to secure an 85–51 victory. The 34-point margin mirrored the result from the 2023 FIBA Asia Cup, where China defeated the Tall Ferns 80–46. “We can’t be too disappointed with what we were able to put out there against a very great team," said New Zealand Coach Nat Hurst. “We’re building a solid foundation that we need to continue to grow off. Like when we look at the score tonight, that’s why we’re not too disappointed because I feel like we did a lot of great things out there as we’re trying to build.” New Zealand have a rest day before taking on Japan in the qualification semi-finals on Friday night, 11:30pm NZT

Grace Jale headers the ball for the Wellington Phoenix where she has signed for another season PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Football Fern Grace Jale has re-signed with the Phoenix for the 2025-26 A-League season, following fellow forward Emma Main and centre back Mackenzie Barry in extending her stay in Wellington. It will be Jale’s third campaign with the Nix, having been part of the inaugural women’s team in 2021-22 before returning last year after two seasons away. LATEST HEADLINES: Inexperienced Tall Blacks named James Watt moves up ATP rankings Fox with Major winners at The Open Black Ferns break ground in Republic Tall Ferns score big win over Indonesia She made 21 appearances for the Phoenix during the 2024-25 A-League, scoring two goals, and says she has unfinished business in the capital. “Last year I returned to do a job and that didn’t happen and I’m not going to leave until that job is done,” Jale said. “Winning was the ultimate goal but everyone’s more realistic goal was to make the finals and see where we could go from there. “Despite falling short, I loved last season. There was a lot of learning and growth for me on and off the field, so I’m happy to be back.” She expects to return to the Phoenix a more confident player, having worked on the mental side of her game with the club’s staff. “Now I know what I can bring and with my experience, it’s going to be my fifth year in the A-League, I know what to expect in the league and at the club. “The familiarity is comforting, and I can just focus on performing really.” The 35-cap Fern showcased her versatility last season, even deputising in the centre of midfield at the end of the 2024-25 campaign. “There was definitely some getting used to it and the first game I played there was against Melbourne City, so it was a bit of a thrown under the bus kind of situation, but I actually loved it. “I enjoyed getting on the ball more, being able to control the pace and flow of the game and I just loved being in the middle. “There’s more action and I can use my height and strength more.” Interim Phoenix head coach Amy Shepherd says re-signing Jale, Barry and Main shows that securing top Kiwi talent remains a key strategic focus for the club. “These signings are not only vital to our on-field success but also demonstrate our dedication to supporting the growth and development of our players on both domestic and international stages,” Shepherd said. “Grace brings exceptional technical skill, athleticism, and versatility to the squad. They are attributes that will be crucial in what promises to be a significant season for the club. “Her wealth of experience at both domestic and international levels makes her a key contributor on and off the field. “We remain committed to supporting her ambitions with the Football Ferns as she sets her sights on Brazil 2027.” Grace Jale is the 16th player confirmed in the Wellington Phoenix women’s squad for the 2025-26 A-League, with further re-signings and signings to follow in the coming weeks

Tall Blacks guard Taylor Britt and head coach Judd Flavell. PHOTO: TALL BLACKS Head coach Judd Flavell has included three debutants in a largely inexperienced Tall Blacks squad for next month's FIBA Asia Cup. National Basketball League (NBL) standouts Mojave King, Jack Andrew and Dontae Russo-Nance were named on Wednesday among the 11 players for the continental championship in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from August 5-17. LATEST HEADLINES: James Watts moves up ATP rankings Fox with Major winners at The Open Black Ferns break ground in Republic Tall Ferns score big win over Indonesia Kurt Capewell returns to Warriors side Just four players - Wellington Saints forward Jordan Ngatai (84), Canterbury Rams forward Tohi Smith-Milner (69) and guard Taylor Britt (34) and Franklin Bulls guard Flynn Cameron (28) - have made more than 10 games for the Tall Blacks. The other members of the squad - Rams forward Max Darling, Taranaki Airs forward Carlin Davison, young big man Ben Gold and Brisbane Bullets guard Taine Murray - have played between four and 10 games. Gold, out of Marquette University, has been named in the squad but will only play at the FIBA Asia Cup. In what seems like a changing of the guard, there is no Shea Ili, Reuben Te Rangi, Finn Delany, Yanni Wetzell, Corey Webster, Izayah Le'afa, Sam Timmins, Sam Waardenburg, Sam Mennenga or Hyrum Harris. How King, Andrew and Russo-Nance performed during the NBL seasons was pivotal in their inclusions. “The form that they’ve played with in the NBL and the roles and responsibilities that they’ve had with their teams. All of their teams were successful this past season, and a large part of that was down to how these guys contributed.” For the youngest of the three debutants, Dontae Russo-Nance is someone who Flavell’s has been keeping an eye on for quite some time. “He’s been on the periphery the last few windows. We just needed to see him on the floor for a large period of time so that we could see him with the responsibilities of leading his team,  and carrying a workload. "If you look at the Jets success, they probably surprised a lot of people with how well they did. They only just missed out on the playoffs, and Dontae was a big reason for that.” In Otago basketball, the last name King holds high significance. King's father Leonard played for the Nuggets, later turning to coaching and Mum, Tracey, also had a glittering collegiate career. “We always knew that Mojave was very talented. When you look at the Tall Blacks in the past, we’ve had to have a guy that can score, shoot the ball and get hot. And we know Mojave can put on 10-12 points in a short period of time.” With an already well-travelled start to his young professional career, King has shown the ability to score the ball in numerous ways. In first most recent Australian NBL season with the NZ Breakers, King averaged 8.5 points. Alongside his recently completed NBL season with the Tauranga Whai, King averaged 22.2 points, shooting a tidy 38 percent from beyond the arc.   “His role for us is going to be scoring. Mojave has that unique skillset that I think past Tall Black teams have really leaned on to carry some of that scoring load.” Andrew’s debut inclusion has come from a lot of grit, hardwork and determination. Especially impressive was his 13.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.2 blocks per game averages during a breakout season with the Airs. “Jack has had a phenomenal jump this season. He just really seemed to grow in confidence as well. For a big man to actually run and have a high activity rate that’s something that we really like about them. "He’s been the first man down the floor, he’s been active on the glass, and he’s had great success in tandem with Carlin off the pick and roll. I think those two have been one of the most dynamic duos.” The number of debutants in the squad could increase to four, when a 12th player is added after two warm-up tournaments in China. Bulls forward Jordan Hunt, Nelson Giants guard Hayden Jones, the son of Tall Blacks legend Phill Jones, and Bay Hawks centre Luca Yates will travel to China for the FIBA Solidarity Cup and Four Nations tournaments, with one to be selected for the FIBA Asia Cup. Hunt has made 12 appearances for the Tall Blacks, while Jones made his senior international debut earlier this year. Yates, 21, still holds a development player contract with the ANBL champion Illawarra Hawks squad. “I first saw him playing for the Illawarra Hawks and then got to see him up close and personal playing in the NBL. "That gave us a great opportunity to see him perform each week, and playing against a lot of guys that were competing for these positions – and we just really liked what he had to offer. “We’re just really excited to have another quality big man that has good size and good level of skill. He shoots the ball well from outside, it may not be his known quality but that’s a skill we really like when it comes to playing international basketball.” New Zealand topped Group B in the qualifiers, finishing with an impressive 5-1 record, including memorable wins over Chinese Taipei and a split series against the Philippines. The home victory at Spark Arena against the Philippines was a standout moment, showcasing the growing passion for basketball across Aotearoa. At the Asia Cup, the Tall Blacks will compete in Group D, facing Chinese Taipei, the Philippines, and Iraq. Having already faced Chinese Taipei and the Philippines during qualifying, the team is well-prepared for the challenge ahead. In preparation for the tournament, the squad will travel to China for a series of warm-up games. The Tall Blacks will play three games at the FIBA Solidarity Cup against Brazil, Guangdong and Montenegro, before playing at the Four Nations Tournament, again against Brazil and a to-be-determined opponent. Tall Blacks fans in New Zealand can catch all FIBA Asia Cup action live on TVNZ+. TALL BLACKS SQUAD C - Jack Andrew* (Taranaki Airs), debutant G - Taylor Britt (Canterbury Rams & New Zealand Breakers), 34 games G - Flynn Cameron (Franklin Bulls & Adelaide 36ers), 28 games F - Max Darling (Canterbury Rams & New Zealand Breakers), 9 games F – Carlin Davison (Taranaki Airs & New Zealand Breakers), 4 games F – Ben Gold (Marquette University), 7 games (Only for FIBA Asia Cup) G – Mojave King* (Tauranga Whai), debutant G/F – Taine Murray (Brisbane Bullets), 10 games G/F – Jordan Ngatai (Wellington Saints), 84 games G – Dontae Russo-Nance* (Manawatū Jets), debutant F/C – Tohi Smith-Milner (Canterbury Rams & Brisbane Bullets), 69 games Additions for FIBA Solidarity Cup and Four Nations F – Jordan Hunt (Franklin Bulls & Surrey 89ers), 12 games G – Hayden Jones (Nelson Giants & University of Wisconsin), 1 game C – Luca Yates* (Hawke’s Bay Hawks & Illawarra Hawks), debutant TALL BLACKS SCHEDULE FIBA Solidarity Cup (Guangdong, China) July 26: Tall Blacks vs Brazil July 27: Tall Blacks vs Guangdong July 28: Tall Blacks vs Montenegro Four Nations Tournament (Shenzhen, China) July 30: Tall Blacks vs Brazil July 31: Tall Blacks vs TBC FIBA Asia Cup 2025 (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) August 5: Tall Blacks vs Iraq August 8: Tall Blacks vs Philippines August 10: Tall Blacks vs Chinese Taipei

Forward Josiah Allick became the Southland Sharks' first NBL MVP award winner. PHOTO: SOUTHLAND SHARKS The Southland Sharks’ dominant big man Josiah Allick has been named the National Basketball League's (NBL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) for 2025. The award capped a stellar campaign for the 24-year-old American, that saw the Sharks lock in home court for the play-in round and reach the NBL grand final as one of the league’s hottest teams. LATEST HEADLINES: Fox paired with major winners at Open Black Ferns break ground in Republic Tall Ferns score big win over Indonesia Kurt Capewell returns to Warriors side Phoenix sign Nigerian striker Ifeanyi Eze Allick posted regular season averages of 18.9 points, 11.1 rebounds (including a league-leading 4.1 offensive rebounds per game) and 2.9 assists, shooting an efficient 58 percent from the field. The 6-foot-8 forward's relentless rebounding (210 total boards) and consistent inside scoring anchored the fourth-seeded Sharks at both ends, earning him a deserved spot on the NBL All-Star Five.  Joining him in the All-Star Five were Wellington Saints guard Nick Marshall, who averaged 19.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists, and shot efficiently as the squad's No 1 scoring option, while providing steady defense for the regular season champion Saints. Canterbury Rams’ dynamic playmaker Sean Macdonald snagged the other guard position, as he delivered 21.5 points per game and 5.6 assists while hitting 3.6 three-pointers per game on 43 percent shooting from deep, driving the defending champion Rams’ offence to a top-two seed. Freakishly athletic Taranaki Airs forward Carlin Davison had a career year with 18.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, ranking top-10 in assists, while grabbing 2.1 steals per game in a year that his game evolved into that of an all-around playmaker for an Airs  team that finished third on the ladder for the second season in a row.  Completing the All-Star Five was the Nelson Giants’ mid-season addition Jeremy Combs, who exploded for 24.4 points per game (first overall) while pulling down 9.2 rebounds per game across 13 games, his arrival coinciding with the Giants’ late push that them finish just one win shy of the finals. The Steve McKean Coach of the Year was awarded to Aaron Young, who guided the Saints to the league’s best regular season record, thanks to the Saints’ balanced scoring and defensive identity. The win was his second in three seasons, having previously been honoured for leading Auckland Tuatara amidst three consecutive finals appearances. The Defensive Player of the Year went to Saints forward Hyrum Harris, whose tenacity and versatility anchored Wellington’s defence. Harris averaged 10.6 rebounds per game while snatching 1.8 steals per game and consistently guarding multiple positions throughout the season for a Saints team that gave up the fewest points per game in the league while holding opponents to a league-low 41 percent shooting.  One of the league's fastest rising stars, Hawke’s Bay's 16-year-old phenom Jackson Ball, took home a double honour as Most Improved Player and Youth Player of the Year. Ball played 34 minutes per game, averaging 19.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 2.3 three-pointers per game on strong efficiency. His performances took a massive leap from 2024, where he averaged 3.4 points while playing just over 11 minutes a game. Emerging Nelson Giants talent Hayden Jones earned the Rapid League MVP award, finishing with 10.8 points and 2.2 assists a game, while also contributing 0.9 blocks per game and all-round hustle for the back-to-back Rapid League champions. The Junior Tall Black, who made his Tall Blacks debut earlier this year, was also a Rapid League All-Star Five selection for the second consecutive year as he prepares to head to the University of Wisconsin.  Joining Jones in the Rapid League All-Star Five was Saints guard Kazlo Evans Jr, another second-timer; Manawatu Jets sharpshooter Tyson Thata-Paese, who led the league with 14.9 points, and Giants teammates Lachlan Crate and Sam Dempster. 2025 NBL AWARD WINNERS MVP: Josiah Allick (Southland Sharks)  Defensive Player of the Year: Hyrum Harris (Wellington Saints) Youth Player of the Year: Jackson Ball (Hawke's Bay Hawks)  Most Improved Player: Jackson Ball (Hawke's Bay Hawks)  Steve McKean Coach of the Year: Aaron Young (Wellington Saints)  NBL All Star Five: Nick Marshall (Wellington Saints), Sean Macdonald (Canterbury Rams), Carlin Davison (Taranaki Airs), Jeremy Combs (Nelson Giants), Josiah Allick (Southland Sharks)  Rapid League MVP: Hayden Jones (Nelson Giants)  Rapid League All Star Five: Hayden Jones (Nelson Giants), Kazlo Evans Jr (Wellington Saints), Tyson Thata-Paese (Manawatū Jets), Lachlan Crate (Nelson Giants), Sam Dempster (Nelson Giants)  HISTORIC AWARDS Most Outstanding Guard (Keith Carr Trophy) : Nick Marshall (Wellington Saints) Most Outstanding NZ Guard (John Macdonald Trophy) : Izayah Le'afa (Wellington Saints) Most Outstanding Forward (Commissioners Cup) : Josiah Allick (Southland Sharks) Most Outstanding NZ Forward/Centre (Stan Hill Trophy) : Carlin Davison (Taranaki Airs) Scoring Champion (Alan Bland Memorial Trophy) : Jeremy Combs (Nelson Giants) Rebounding Champion (Garry Pettis Memorial Trophy) : Josiah Allick (Southland Sharks) Assist Champion (Dave Taylor Trophy): Owen Foxwell (Taranaki Airs) Best Team Free Throws (Niall Forsyth Trophy) : Hawke's Bay Hawks Referee of the Year: Callum Welch MEDIA AWARDS Club of the Year: Canterbury Rams  General Manager of the Year: Jarrod Kenny (Hawke's Bay Hawks) Best Fan Engagement : Nelson Giants Best Social Media: Wellington Saints Best Game Presentation: Auckland Tuatara Video Content Creator of the Year: Nic Durkin (Wellington Saints) Best Media Coverage : Logan Savory (Southland Tribune) Photo of the Year:  Will Gould - Hyrum Harris Floats Through the Air Best Digital Team Creative:  Nelson Giants - Jets Travel Vlog - Danielle Eagle

New Zealand picked themselves up and let out all their frustrations by beating Indonesia, 75-45, at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup at the Shenzhen Sports Center, China. Still stung by that 78-76 heartbreaker at the hands of Park Jisu and South Korea 24 hours ago, the Tall Ferns ensured that none of that would happen again by taking control early - and playing consistently all the way on Tuesday. LATEST HEADLINES: Kurt Capewell retuns to Warriors side Tall Ferns fall just short against Korea Phoenix sign Nigerian striker Ifeanyi Eze Baby Blacks into U-20 World Cup final Cassidy wins Formula E race in Berlin Both sides were even at 14-14 early on but the Tall Ferns went on a run of seven points to take the first quarter 21-14. New Zealand started the second period the way they ended the first with another run to lead 25-14 lead with 8:58 on the clock. And that rally proved to be the difference as New Zealand stayed ahead since, relying on their hot shooting from deep to widen the gap to 20 for the first time, 48-28, during the third canto to break away for good. Emme Shearer goes up for a shot in the Tall Ferns big win over Indonesia at the FIBA Women's Asia Cup. PHOTO: FIBA "It was a very physical game; super important for both teams ... very proud of our girls for fighting for 40 minutes, and getting a great win for New Zealand," said head coach Natalie Hurst. Esra McGoldrick top-scored for the victors with 18 points and six rebounds, while Rebecca Pizzey registered a double-double of 12 points and 13 rebounds as the two spearheaded the balanced attack. All 11 players scored in the rout, with Emme Shearer and Charlotte Whittaker finishing on 8 points apiece as the tandem played crucial roles in the aforementioned run to put themselves in the lead permanently. "Very physical game. Just glad we actually stayed together throughout, and pulled it away towards the end," said McGoldrick, who hit three of New Zealand's 15 three-pointers in the victory. The Tall Ferns as a whole dished 23 assists but it was their dominance on the boards as they hauled down a total of 62 rebounds compared to Indonesia's 36. The Tall Ferns next game is against hosts China on Wednesday (tip-off 11.30pm).

A newe and important signing for the Wellington Phoenix in the new season. PHOTO: WELLINGTON PHOENIX GRAPHIC The Wellington Phoenix have made a major splash with their first signing for the 2025-26 A-League. The Phoenix have signed Nigerian striker Ifeanyi Eze to lead the men’s attack in the upcoming season. LATEST HEADLINES: Baby Blacks reach World Cup final Steel beat Stars, end regular season Cassidy wins race 2 Berlin Formula E Dixon, Armstrong podium in Ohio SVG wins back-to-back Nascar races Eze, 26, is coming off a standout campaign for Al-Karkh SC in the Iraq Stars League, where he scored 15 goals and provided five assists for a team that finished 14th. Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano has hailed Eze as a fantastic signing for the club. “He has all of the attributes I was looking for in an attacker,” Italiano said. “He can score goals, he’s very fast, he can dribble at pace and his intention is to always go forward. “Eze’s got this nice instinct where as soon as he gets around the 18-yard box he’s looking to shoot or create. He can also link quite well. “And the most important thing for me is he’s a really, really good person.” He believes Eze’s goals in the Iraq Stars League can translate to the A-League. “The leagues are very similar in terms of rankings in Asia. “The Iraqi league is a little bit more transitional and a bit different to the A-League, but the fact that he scored 15 goals and had five assists in a team that was down the bottom is very impressive. “And stylistically he suits the way I want to play.” Ifeanyi Eze will join the Phoenix once he obtains his New Zealand work visa and he can’t wait to meet his new teammates. “The earlier I get to Wellington the better,” Eze said. “I hope everything goes fast and smoothly so I can join the team for the pre-season and start to play. “Getting to know everyone, the tactics, my teammates and how they play will be very helpful to me.” The left-footed striker is also determined to prove himself to the club’s supporters. “One thing that I can assure the fans is that they’re going to see a hard worker. “They’re going to see someone who is dedicated to give the best for the team, put in everything he’s got and is open to learning more to add to what he’s got to give the team the best that he can. “I know everyone wants a player who can score goals and help the team…but I don’t want to talk too much about that. “I like doing my talking on the field and they should be ready for Eze!” Eze will wear the No 7shirt vacated by Kosta Barbarouses and knows he has big boots to fill replacing a player who scored 13 and 10 goals in the past two seasons. “I respect him for what he has done at the Wellington Phoenix. It’s not easy to score double figure goals in a season. “But on the other hand I’m coming to Wellington to do something better as well. “Everyone has to be optimistic with their career and what they want to achieve.” The Wellington Phoenix now have 19 men’s players contracted for the 2025-26 season and have filled four of the five visa spots

Ryan Fox will play with Hideki Matsuyama and Matt Fitzpatrick in the first two rounds at the Open Championship. PHOTO: RYAN FOX New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox will play with two major winners for the first two rounds of the Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Fox, who has won two PGA Tour events in the last two months, will begin his opening round on Thursday at 9.25am local time (8.25pm NZ Time) alongside Japan's Hideki Matsuyama and Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick. LATEST HEADLINES: Black Ferns break ground in Republic Tall Ferns score big win over Indonesia Kurt Capewell returns to Warriors side Phoenix sign Nigerian striker Ifeanyi Eze Baby Blacks into U-20 World Cup final Matsuyama won the Masters in 2021, while Fitzpatrick claimed his only major win at the US Open a year later. The trio get their second rounds on Friday started at 2.26pm local time (1.26am Saturday NZT) in the second round. Fox will be appearing in his ninth Open Championship, having made the cut six times, including two top-25 finishes, with his best performance in 2019 when Royal Portrush last hosted the major. Fellow Kiwi Daniel Hillier has also been paired with a Masters winner, former US Ryder Cup captain Zach Johnson, along with Englishman Daniel Brown, who also plays on the DP World Tour. The trio will tee off in the first round on Thursday at 11.58am local time (10.58pm NZT) and are out early on day two on Friday at 6.57am (5.57pm NZT). Hillier is playing in his fourth Open Championship and had his best finish of tied 19th at last year’s event at Royal Troon. New Zealand Open winner Ryan Peake will play with six-time major winner Phil Mickelson, who lifted the Claret Jug in 2013. Defending champion Xander Schauffele is paired with US Open winner JJ Spaun and two-time major winner Jon Rahm, of Spain, teeing off at 9.58am (8.58pm NZT). World No 1 Scottie Scheffler is in the next group at 10.09am (9.09pm NZT), with Irishman Shane Lowry, who won at Royal Portrush in 2019, and 2021 Open champion Collin Morikawa. The other featured groups go out later in the day, including Bryson DeChambeau, Robert MacIntyre and Justin Rose at 2.48pm (1.48am Friday NZT), followed by Jordan Spieth, Ludvig Aberg and Viktor Hovland at 2.59pm (1.59am Friday NZT). Masters champion Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood will go off at 3.10pm (2.10am Friday NZT). Two-time winner Padraig Harrington, the first Irishman to lift the Claret Jug, will play the opening tee shot on Thursday at 6.35am local time (5.35pm NZT).