Basketball: Rotorua recover to lift title

The winning under-19 side. Photo/Supplied

The tournament's most valuable player Hyrum Harris led the Rotorua men to glory at the Basketball New Zealand under-19 national championships in Nelson.

At Saxton Stadium, they had to battle for the full 40 minutes to see off provincial neighbours, Waikato, 76-72 to take the title.

Rotorua recovered from an opening round loss to finish top of their pool and advance to the quarter-final stage. A loss to Tasman first up was just the tonic to wake the Rotorua team up and put them on course for a national title.

"We didn't play well at all in our first game, and with Hyrum fouling out with three minutes to play we just didn't have the cohesiveness to win the game," said assistant coach Mark Elers.

Tasman missed out on the quarter-finals on points difference after Rotorua's decisive 90-66 win over North Harbour in pool play meant all three teams finished with a win and a loss. With their backs against the wall the Jeff Green-coached Rotorua team executed its plan to a tee. "Coach Green wanted us to play a certain style and the boys did it, " Elers said.

Most valuable player Hyrum Harris, a 1.9m post player with guard skills, and fellow big man Logan Elers each posted double-doubles in points and rebounds.

Team captain Logan Elers had a consistent tournament which saw him being selected into the tournament team. Mikaere Watene was also key.

Tiny guard Elyus Soloman played solidly despite 10 minutes of cramping while Halasiale Maile made an impact from the bench.

Rotorua's winning team was: Hyrum Harris, Tamamoko Green, Tre Barbar, Arapeta Hakapu, Logan Elers (cpt), Mikaere Watene, Tamakari Vercoe-Kameta, Bailey Lacy-Rameka, Te Awanui Waaka, Eylus Soloman, Dion Collins, Jeff Green (coach) Mark Elers and Daryl Watene (assistant coaches).