Four Canterbury Teams Finish in the Top 14
Canterbury Basketball enjoyed a memorable week at the 2026 Foot Locker U16 National Championships, hosted at Parakiore Recreation & Sport Centre in Christchurch, with the Canterbury A Girls successfully defending their national title and the Canterbury A Boys claiming a bronze medal in front of passionate home supporters.
The championships showcased the strength and depth of basketball across the region, with all four Canterbury teams competing with distinction throughout the tournament.
The Canterbury A Girls produced one of the great U16 National Championship Finals, defeating Porirua 79-76 in a thrilling contest to secure consecutive national titles.
After the teams were locked at 63-all heading into the final quarter, the lead changed hands repeatedly before Canterbury took control thanks to a wise rotation from Head Coach Dilshan Muthunaidelage.
MVP Maiyah (Yaya) Lavea-Martin drove the late offence, while Danalla Latu-Sa was outstanding alongside her, recording a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, as Canterbury held their nerve in a spectacular finish.
The Canterbury A Boys capped off a strong tournament by defeating Rotorua 68-57 in the bronze medal game to finish third in New Zealand.
After narrowly missing out on the championship game, the team responded impressively to secure a place on the podium and complete another successful national campaign.
Levi Weston was recognised for his outstanding performances throughout the week, earning selection in the Tournament All-Star Five.
Canterbury’s depth was also evident through the performances of its development teams.
The tournament caps the end to a great rep season with Canterbury claiming 4 of the 6 major titles.
The U14 programme will kick off in August with all info https://canterbury.basketball/2026u14programme/
Canterbury Basketball would like to thank Basketball New Zealand, tournament officials, referees, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who helped deliver another outstanding national championship at Parakiore.
Finally, congratulations to every player, coach and manager who represented Canterbury with pride. To win a national championship on home court, earn another podium finish, and see three Canterbury athletes recognised with national tournament honours is a fantastic achievement and one the entire basketball community can celebrate.
