NBL stars power Tall Blacks to epic double-OT win

Photo: fiba.basketball.

Several NBL stars stood tall when it mattered as the New Zealand Tall Blacks claimed a classic double-overtime thriller over the Philippines in the FIBA World Cup Asia Qualifiers.

The teams couldn't be separated at 83 points apiece at the end of regulation, and again after the first overtime, before the Tall Blacks prevailed 106-102.

It was New Zealand Breakers star Sam Mennenga who ultimately gave his nation the lead for good in the second overtime, throwing down a big dunk with just 52 seconds remaining and the scores tied, before adding another key bucket with 15 seconds left to seal the win.

The Tall Blacks will now move through to the second round of World Cup Qualifying.

Reuben Te Rangi top-scored for the home side with 22 points, while Melbourne United guard Shea Ili had 21 to go with six assists in his first game for his country since 2025.

"Really big win for us," New Zealand coach Judd Flavell said post-game.

"We came here with the objective to obviously get the win. We knew the Philippines was gonna be a tough opponent - they always have been. Very proud of our resilience."

Check out all the best highlights below.

New Zealand 106 - Philippines 102

Stat leaders

Reuben Te Rangi – 22 PTS, 8/15 FG
Shea Ili – 21 PTS, 6 AST
Sam Waardenburg – 16 PTS, 10 REB
Sam Mennenga – 13 PTS, 6 REB, 3 AST, 3 STL
Tai Webster – 12 PTS, 3 AST, 2 STL

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