SKILFUL DISPLAY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26891, 1 October 1948, Page 6

SKILFUL DISPLAY

AMERICAN BASKETBALL TEAM NEW ZEALAND BEATEN A skilful exhibition of the American style of play was given by an indoor basketball team composed of Moiman missionaries from the United States, which beat New Zealand. 5(j—39, in the Dunedin Town. Hall la£t -night. The visitors were matched by the New Zealanders in ost departments, but their superiority In shooting -was the deciding factor. The initiative was quickly seiztd by either side, and cleverness by both teams in opening up play made the game bright and interesting. Over-ambition and impetuosity in their shooting was costly to the New Zealanders. however, and gave their opponents frequent possession. New Zealand was well served by P. Kendall and R. Steile, both of Palmerston North. Steele’s work at guard • was especially sound. The American, team had a fine attacking player and skilful shooter in G. W. Nielson, with G. S. Greyson another clever exponent in the latter department. The A Grade Championship of New Zealand was won by Palmerston North, after a close tussle with Wellington. Southland was successful in the B Grade. Results:— A Grade.— Wanganui 28, Otago 27; Palmerston North 21, Wanganui 18; Wellington 27, Hamilton 19; Auckland 47, Canterbury 38; Palmerston North 31 Wellington 29; Canterbury 33, Hamilton 28. B Grade. —Dunedin Mercantile 30, Hutt Valley 23; Southland 34, Hawke’s Bay 24; Otago B 33. Otago C 28: Dunedin Mercantile 27, Otago C 24; Hutt Valley 24, Hawke’s Bay 18; Southland 47. Otago B 38.