Nicholas Hayward is travelling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this week to represent NZ in the FIBA U17 3x3 Asia Cup.

The draw's already out, with NZ up against Uzbekistan and India in Pool B. There's 35 teams competing, and the top 3 teams will earn automatic entry to the FIBA U18 World Cup 2023 - now that's something to play for!

Head coach Cam Wilson says that his squad are excited to be able to compete internationally on the 3×3 stage, with a medal finish also a goal for his team.

“The players are absolutely over the moon, for them it’s a chance to represent their country in 3×3 so of course they’re rapt; they’re excited to get out and test themselves against some of the international competition they haven’t seen for the past few years,” says Wilson.

"There’s more and more opportunities becoming available for those who are playing 3×3; there’s more tournaments popping up all the time, from secondary school to Quest tours – players are getting exposure from these events and it gives another type of athlete the chance to reach their peak level as well.”

The FIBA 3×3 U17 Asia Cup tips off on 14 October for the U17 Men’s team. All games will be available to watch online at www.youtube.com/FIBA3x3