Slam Dunk Success in Germany

By OBHS | Posted: Wednesday April 22, 2026

Year 13 student Harry Townsend, who recently returned from Mannheim, Germany, after representing New Zealand on the international stage.

Harry was a member of the NZ U18 Men’s National Team competing in the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament. Known as a premier global event for youth basketball, the biennial tournament hosts national teams from 12 countries, providing a platform for the world’s rising stars to showcase their talent.

Tournament Performance

The New Zealand squad proved they belong among the world's best, securing a hard-fought 7th place finish overall.

Match Results:

• NZ 80 – 69 Latvia (W)

• NZ 72 – 75 Brazil (L)

• NZ 61 – 57 Italy (W)

• NZ 76 – 80 Serbia (L)

• NZ 85 – 71 China (W)

• NZ 65 – 74 Japan (L)

• NZ 85 – 67 Turkey (7th/8th Playoff Win)

Beyond the competition, Harry noted that the experience of traveling and playing with a "great bunch of lads" from across New Zealand was a major highlight along with discovering Hazelnut M&Ms! The team had the opportunity to soak up some German culture, spending a night in the historic city of Heidelberg before the tournament began.

Congratulations, Harry, on this outstanding achievement. We look forward to seeing what you do next on the court.