The 3×3 NZ Secondary Schools Champs started play in Auckland’s Pulman Arena yesterday morning, with more than 1,100 games to be played across four days at Pulman Arena. Over 900 players will take the court this weekend, which is an increase of around 250 players compared to the last tournament held in 2021.
Defending champions Queen Margaret College had a tough first day, losing their opening three matches by narrow margins to all but Hastings Girls, who would only drop one game in their pool. Tauranga Girls remains the only team that is undefeated across the Girls Elite grade after playing four games throughout the day. With 3×3 being a faster, shorter experience, more games can be played throughout the day.
On the boys side, Fraser High who are defending champions managed to start off with an impressive two wins to only one loss. They sit second in their pool despite losing to bottom of the table Saint Kentigern. Six teams remain undefeated among the four pools in the Boys Elite, suggesting that some matches today will have a significant impact on playoff seeding.
Excitement and fast paced action has also continued within the Senior Open grades, with eight boys teams remaining undefeated and over 1550 points being scored throughout the day. With games only going to 21 points, this averages out to 12 points scored by each team per game in 10 minutes. It was a different story within the two pools of the Senior Girls Open grade, with three teams remaining undefeated. 685 points were scored across all games at an average of 11 points per team per game.
In the Junior Elite grades, there have been a mixture of results, including Hamilton Boys, Westlake Boys and Tauranga Boys remaining undefeated in the Boys grade. Hamilton Boys were champions in 2021, proving their depth and remaining a top contender for the playoffs at this stage. Hamilton Girls would look to take their Junior Elite title again but have been challenged by an impressive Rotorua Girls squad, who won all their games throughout the day. Rotorua and Westlake Girls are the only undefeated teams in the Girls Junior Elite grade.
There’s plenty of exciting action to come in Day 2, with more pool play action and a lot more excitement! Live broadcasts begin from Day 3. Merchandise is also available to purchase on-site or online for following day pickup. Don’t miss out on all the action!
Photos can be viewed at https://bbnz.link/photos
Key Info:
- Over 1,100 games will be played at Pulman Arena from 29th March – 1st April 2023.
- All game results, schedules and updates can be found at the BBNZ 3×3 website – https://bbnz.link/3x3SS
- Our Instagram and Facebook will be the best place for photos, information and updates from the Arena
- A Live Stream will be available at BBNZ TV for Day 3 and Day 4, with specific games being broadcasted. The daily broadcast schedule will be available on our Instagram or Facebook stories.
- Merchandise for the tournament can be pre-ordered online via Pure Athletic
