The U19 mens team came up against Wellington in its first game in the Zone 3 Premiership tournament in Wellington this weekend. Reigning champions Wellington, led by Steven Adams were too big and too strong for the New Plymouth team who went down 91-47. They put that loss behind them and continued to focus on gaining one of the three spots on offer for the BBNZ National tournament to be held later in the year.

Their second game was against Wanganui who they met at Hawera's Easter tourney. Wanganui, who haven't been seen BBNZ tournaments in recent times, put up a fight last weekend but capitulated yesterday. After matching the NP team for the first two periods where the score was tied up at 27 each, their defense fell away and New Plymouth took the game 85-37. Great outside shooting by Matt Wallace and Derek Albertsen helped seal the win.

NP come up against Hutt Valley at 2:15pm and Hawkes Bay at 7:30pm on Day 2 and must win at least one game to keep their hopes alive.

Pictured: Lachie Fenwick looks for a way round Wellington big man Steve Adams