The Tall Ferns brought their tour of China and the second of two four nation tournaments to a close with a heartbreaking loss against Slovenia, missing on a morale boosting win for this young team that has learned so much on their 10 day visit to China.
With the scores against Slovenia tied at 56 all in the final second, the Tall Ferns conceded a foul to put the Slovenian’s to the line, with the shooter making one of two free throws to take the lead and despite frantic efforts, the Tall Ferns were unable to get off what would have been a game winning shot on the buzzer.
The performance however was heartening for coach Kennedy Kereama and his support staff as his inexperienced young team showed they are quick learners in the international game, but ultimately just missed out on what would have been a more than satisfying way to end the tour that started with 8 debutants.
Captain Toni Edmondson led all scorers with 18 and was well supported by Samara Gallaher with 15. The Tall Ferns competed on an even footing on the boards with Slovenia and shot the ball at a much improved 41% from the floor, albeit they again struggled from long range making just 2 of 13 attempts.
Box score posted at BBNZ facebook page
Tall Ferns 56
T Edmondson 18, S Gallaher 15, Josie Stockill 10
Slovenia 57
Gajic 11, Dojkic 11, Prezej 11
