BasketballSportNew Zealand Representatives

OBHS, 22 April 2026

Slam Dunk Success in Germany

Year 13 student Harry Townsend, who recently returned from Mannheim, Germany, after representing New Zealand on the international stage.

Slam Dunk Success in Germany

Harry was a member of the NZ U18 Men’s National Team competing in the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament. Known as a premier global event for youth basketball, the biennial tournament hosts national teams from 12 countries, providing a platform for the world’s rising stars to showcase their talent.

Tournament Performance

The New Zealand squad proved they belong among the world's best, securing a hard-fought 7th place finish overall.

Match Results:

  • NZ 80 – 69 Latvia (W)

  • NZ 72 – 75 Brazil (L)

  • NZ 61 – 57 Italy (W)

  • NZ 76 – 80 Serbia (L)

  • NZ 85 – 71 China (W)

  • NZ 65 – 74 Japan (L)

  • NZ 85 – 67 Turkey (7th/8th Playoff Win)

Beyond the competition, Harry noted that the experience of traveling and playing with a "great bunch of lads" from across New Zealand was a major highlight along with discovering Hazelnut M&Ms! The team had the opportunity to soak up some German culture, spending a night in the historic city of Heidelberg before the tournament began.

Congratulations, Harry, on this outstanding achievement. We look forward to seeing what you do next on the court.