After coming second in the South Island tournament earlier this year, a late call-up had the team of young ballers scrambling to raise thousands of dollars.
The team held a quiz night at Archer Stadium, with donated prizes being raffled off and a bake sale to boot, fundraising for the big tournament in Palmerston North.
The night was a major success, raising about $5500 after a packed-out attendance and major support from the community.
Coach Sean Heanue was stoked for the team.
"It went bloody well, actually. Pretty good turnout, a lot of support.
"We couldn’t do it without them.
"There were people there who probably weren’t even invested in basketball or family of the kids, so it’s good to see all the support," he said.
Mr Heanue said the amount raised was more than expected and they had exceeded their initial goal.
The focus now on the remaining three trainings.
"We’re just fine-tuning everything we need to do, trying to look at the other teams we’re playing, stuff like that," he said.
The team will be heading away this Sunday to Palmerston North, where they will compete against teams from all around — including a hopeful rematch against Greymouth, who defeated them in the South Island finals.
The fundraising behind them, the excitement was setting in for the players as they headed away in pursuit of national greatness, Mr Heanue said.
"Everyone’s kind of frothing to go, absolutely. We can’t wait to get up there and play. It’s always fun to play in the tournament, head up with all their mates.
"You don’t get to do [something like this] too often."
