Guard Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe scored from a pair of free throws with no time left on the clock to give the New Zealand women's basketball team their first victory of the year, a 57-55 win over Argentina in Chengdou, China.
After taking a pounding from the host nation in
their Jin Quiang Cup opener, then giving Cuba a good run for their money but losing by eight points, the Tall Ferns showed they were quick learners, taking the game to the world 12th-ranked South Americans.
Leading 27-24 at halftime, the contest remained close throughout, but the Ferns held their nerve down the stretch.
Centre Jess McCormack, 17, again led the effort with 18 points, including 12 from 17 free-throws and eight rebounds. Captain Noni Wharemate scored 10 points.
"We have learned so much and improved a huge amount during this tournament,' McCormack said.
If their waywardness from the stripe cost New Zealand a win against Cuba, foul shooting proved their strength on this occasion.
They shot 24 from 35 (68.6 per cent) as a team, and were more effective than their opponents (13 from 22) in both getting to the line and converting.
Victory will give the inexperienced Ferns, ranked 17th and minus several leading players who were not available for the trip, something tangible to show after losing by 42 points to China.
Without veterans Donna Wilkins, Aneka Kerr, Charmian Purcell and Angela Marino, coach Mike McHugh has had to blood several rookies against higher ranked international teams.
"We have made tremendous progress throughout this tournament," McHugh said.
"Our younger players have really stepped up and this gives us a great platform to build on for the Beijing Olympics."
NZ Tall Ferns 57 (Jess McCormack 18, Noni Wharemate 10, Natalie Purcell 9, Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe 9) Argentina 55. Quarter time 16-13, halftime 27-24 (11-11), threequarter 38-40 (11-16), fulltime 57-55 (19-15).
- NZPA
