The Rotorua Open Women's Basketball team won the National Open Championship at the Energy Events Centre. Rotorua defeated North Harbour Dolphinz (78-64) in the long weekend tournament in a one-sided final with MVP Gabby Adams, Nadine Stone and captain Ema Pene leading the way.
The foundation was laid in the
first quarter with Rotorua blitzing the shell-shocked North Harbour team. Youngsters Matangiroa Flavell, Takiri Raerino and Moerangi Vercoe were outstanding, providing energy, skill and poise under pressure. Rotorua went through the tournament undefeated, winning against Canterbury (44-34), Counties-Manukau (63-35) and Te Tai Tokerau (52-26) in pool play before beating Waitakere West Auckland in the semifinal (62-44).
