Celebrating Malakai Tuimalealiifano's World Cup achievement

We're proud to celebrate Rotorua's Malakai Tuimalealiifano, who represented New Zealand at the 2026 FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup.

Malakai is a Rotorua Boys' High School student, and he also played in our U18 Boys rep team this year. Being selected to wear the New Zealand singlet at one of youth basketball's biggest events is a milestone worth celebrating.

Malakai's tournament record (opens in a new tab)

Against the world's best

The World Cup ran from 27 June to 5 July 2026 in Istanbul, Türkiye, bringing together 16 national teams. It gave New Zealand's young players the chance to test themselves against some of the strongest talent in their age group.

FIBA tournament overview (opens in a new tab)

The campaign

New Zealand finished 12th. In the round of 16 they met Serbia, who went on to win silver, and they closed the campaign with a tight 85–81 loss to Côte d'Ivoire.

Tough games, and valuable experience for young players building their game at international level.

Official FIBA results (opens in a new tab)

Something to aim for

Being part of a World Cup campaign is something Malakai can carry forward. It also shows other young players in Rotorua, from school teams to our rep programme, what's possible. We can't wait to see where his journey goes next.

Congratulations to Malakai and his teammates. Thanks as well to the whānau, coaches and supporters who help young players chase opportunities like these.

Congratulations, Malakai. We're proud of you for representing Aotearoa on the world stage.

See our Honours Board