Basketball: NZ to host U19 world champs

New Zealand will host next year's world men's under-19 basketball championship.

A successful joint bid from Basketball New Zealand (BNZ), Auckland City Council and North Shore City Council will see 16 teams play in the championship in Auckland from July 2-12.

"The tournament is the most important basketball event held in this country," a statement from BNZ said.

"Scouts from all over the world will attend and many of the players on display will go on to become international and NBA stars."

Pool games will be staged at North Shore Events Centre and ASB Stadium and the finals at Vector Arena.

- NZPA