Anchor Junior Tall Blacks settle in Cairo

The Anchor Junior Tall Blacks have settled quickly into their new environment in Cairo as they put the finishing touches on preparation for the FIBA U19 World Cup, starting on Saturday night against South Korea.

Head Coach Daryl Cartwright says the journey so far has been challenging, but has brought the group together on and off court as they embark on the biggest adventure of their collective careers, as coaches and players.

"Today is the first time we have had all 12 on the floor at the same time so that was a huge positive and they reflected that and are champing at the bit to get going now that we are here. The tour so far has presented a few challenges but they are all great. The resilience of the guys has been great, we have only had one internal flight in China that wasnt delayed, and food for the young guys has been interesting. They have had to learn how to sustain their energy levels with a different style of cooking and presentation - we have had some interesting meals where a lot of it was cold so that has been interesting for the guys but has made them appreciate what they have at home for sure."

Much has been made of New Zealands size, with a powerful and imposing line up of 'bigs' to call on, but Cartwright says his guard line has a skill set that will also present issues for their opposition.

"Our guards are smaller than some of the teams - the Americans and some of the Europeans can have guards at 65 and taller with huge wing spans who can disrupt passing lanes. We dont have that length but we have a great strong guard line that can attack downhill and play at pace. And in our forward line we have real presence and size so will look to use that to our advantage as well. We will be looking to use that size advantage against Korea for sure."

Such a tournament requires strong leadership, on and off court. Cartwright says the Anchor powered Junior Tall Blacks do not lack in this area, with everyone playing their part.

"I have challenged the entire group to be leaders in their own way and at the appropriate times. We have a few guys that have played at a high level for New Zealand teams and at College level. My co-captains Tai Wynyard and Quinn Clinton bring different leadership. But Isaac Letoa brings a lot of experience and is different again, he is very quiet but when he talks the guys listen. But they are all leaders and have to see themselves that way and find out how they contribute to the team to make us better as a unit."

With game one against South Korea fast approaching (Saturday 11pm NZT - live streamed on FIBA Youtube), Cartwright says the excitement is building.

"Everyone is excited, one more day of preparation and training tomorrow. There is a buzz around the hotel as all the teams arrive, the players are all sizing each other up and having a look at what they are going to face. We train in Hall One tomorrow, a 16,000-seat stadium where we play the opening game of the tournament. There is excitement and nerves but I know we will all just want to get it underway and get that first game under our belts."

- This story has been automatically published using a media release from Basketball New Zealand