Team USA’s response to New Zealand’s Haka dance goes viral prior to dominant win.
New Zealand’s Powerful Haka Dance Sets the Stage for Basketball World Cup Clash with Team USA
In a captivating display of strength and tradition, New Zealand commenced their Basketball World Cup game against Team USA with the iconic Maori Haka dance. The electrifying performance aimed to inspire the Kiwi team, but ultimately, it was not enough to overcome the American powerhouse, as Team USA emerged victorious with a score of 99-72.
New Zealand utilized their pre-game energy to secure an early 10-point lead, as reported by the Associated Press. The intensity of the Haka dance set the tone for an exhilarating showdown.
Haka Alert #TallBlacks performed the first Haka of #FIBAWC 2023 just before their game against the USA pic.twitter.com/OEvcJFiiv7
— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 (@FIBAWC) August 26, 2023
Despite the loss, the New Zealand players showcased their resilience and sportsmanship. Tyrese Haliburton of Team USA emphasized the importance of preparation and respect for every opponent. “We can’t use that as an excuse. We just got to be prepared,” he stated, according to ESPN.
Paolo Banchero, who contributed 21 points off the bench, expressed his admiration for the Haka dance. Having played football with Pacific Islanders who performed the Haka, he found it to be an enjoyable experience.
The game took a decisive turn when, with 2:01 left in the third quarter and Team USA leading by 12 points, Banchero delivered two consecutive 3-pointers, solidifying their victory.
The Haka dance holds immense cultural significance for the Maori people, as explained on the New Zealand basketball team’s website. It symbolizes unity, strength, and respect for the past, present, and future.
The team, known as the “Tall Blacks,” draws inspiration from the Haka dance, standing strong not only as basketball players but as representatives of New Zealand. “We are standing strong because it’s you against every Tall Black and all New Zealanders,” the website states.
However, the formidable performance of Americans like Austin Reaves proved to be too much for the Tall Blacks. ESPN acknowledged Reaves’ profound impact on the game’s flow.
Austin Reaves | Team USA Highlights
Gm. 1 vs New Zealand
Set to The Captain America + Avengers Theme Song.
This, folks, IS my Mona Lisa.
12 pts | 4/6 fgs / 6 asts / 3 stls / +19
CAPTAIN HIM-ERICA pic.twitter.com/vmHKZQRWsL
— Lakers Legacy (@LakersLegacyPod) August 26, 2023
Austin Reaves, reflecting on his journey to represent his country, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Coming from a small town, he cherishes the moments of competing in the World Cup and the Olympics, appreciating the acceptance and support he receives from the crowds.
The Team USA players’ reaction to New Zealand’s Haka dance went viral, adding an extra layer of excitement to their resounding victory.
The post Team USA’s Reaction to New Zealand’s Haka Dance Goes Viral Before Blow Out Victory appeared first on The Western Journal.
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