Basketball New Zealand

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Marc Hinton, Stuff
What a difference a week makes.

The NZ Tall Blacks have beaten Russia in their latest build up game of their preparations for the FIBA World Championship for Men with a 67-65 win at the World Cup tournament in Zadar, Croatia.

Just a week ago, the Russians had beaten the Tall Blacks 89-76. This time was different with the Kiwis showing more resolve and playing more as a team.

Although Russia opened the game with a scoring blitz and found themselves ahead 19-5 early on, the Tall Blacks hit a run of 10 in a row to work their way back into the game.

“It was a very good turn around from last time,” said Tall Blacks assistant coach, Dillon Boucher. “We focused hard on the game and felt that we wanted to play well.

“We executed well when we needed to and stepped up defensively, which is what won us the game. We started a bit slow – I think we only scored about 10 in the first quarter – but we were able to come back.”

Boucher felt that his team was looking better on the court near the end of the game.

“The fact we can have 26 turnovers and still win is good, and shows the character of the team. We don’t lie down for anyone.

“Russia looked tired – our physicality and style of play appeared to rattle them. We were the fresher team.”

For the Tall Blacks, Craig Bradshaw was the leading scoring on 15 points while Phill Jones grabbed 13 points.

The Tall Blacks now face Jordan early Monday morning (New Zealand) time. The FIBA World Championship for Men will be held in Turkey August 28 – September 12.

World Cup, Zadar, Croatia

New Zealand 67 (Craig Bradshaw 15, Phil Jones 13, Tom Abercrombie 11) Russia 65 (Vitalija Fridzon 15, Sergej Blattovoj 14)