Tauihi Basketball League Final Four Set for Thrilling Showdown

The regular season of the Tauihi basketball league has concluded, and the stage is set for an exciting final four this weekend. The top teams advancing to the playoffs are the Tokomanawa Queens, Mainland Pouākai, Southern Hoiho, and Whai. This thrilling conclusion follows a competitive season that began in late September, culminating in tightly contested matches that left three teams tied with seven wins each.

The Queens earned the top seed with an impressive 8-4 record, securing a home semi-final against the 2024 champions, Whai. This match is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at the Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua. The Pouākai, finishing second in the standings, will host the Southern Hoiho at Cowles Stadium in Christchurch on Sunday afternoon.

For many players, this weekend marks their first experience in playoff basketball, while others bring a wealth of experience to the court. Among the newcomers is Emma Rogers, an eighteen-year-old guard who debuted for Whai in 2023 but has since joined the Pouākai for this season. Her coach, Alex Stojkovic, highlighted her growth, noting her recognition as MVP at the U18 Nationals and her standout performances throughout the season.

“It’s been so exciting. I think the move down here has really paid off,” Rogers stated, reflecting on her transition and new role coming off the bench for Pouākai. She emphasized the importance of adapting to different game situations, showcasing her versatility.

Rogers also noted the advantages of playing at home. “Getting a home semi-final wasn’t something I expected a few weeks ago, but being able to play in front of our fans is invaluable,” she said. Despite the confidence, she acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Southern Hoiho. “They are a really good team, and we’re expecting a close game.”

Looking ahead, Rogers is preparing for a significant next step in her career, as she plans to attend Fairfield University in the United States next year. As a member of an NCAA Division 1 team, she sees this as a major opportunity for development. However, before that journey begins, she intends to enjoy a traditional Kiwi summer back in Tauranga once the Tauihi season ends.

In contrast, Penina Davidson, a seasoned forward at 30 years old, is gearing up for another playoff appearance, this time as a member of the Queens after leaving the Kāhu at the end of the previous season. Davidson’s extensive experience includes playing college basketball in the United States and competing at various levels for New Zealand, including the Tall Ferns.

Davidson expressed enthusiasm about the league’s growth this season. “It’s been awesome. I’ve really loved how competitive the league’s been this year,” she remarked. Her insights reflect a broader trend of improving standards in women’s basketball in New Zealand, with the Rapid League serving as a strong foundation for the teams.

As the Queens prepare for their match against Whai, Davidson is aware of the challenge ahead. “They’re a tough team with strong individuals. We’re expecting tough individual play against us,” she noted.

Off the court, Davidson values the engagement her team has with the community. She has openly discussed her own mental health experiences and emphasizes the importance of using basketball as a platform to connect with others. “Realising that you’ve got the opportunity to say something that could help a kid or even an adult has been really touching for me,” she explained.

The Final Four matches promise to be captivating as the teams vie for the championship. The schedule is as follows:

– **Tokomanawa Queens (1st) vs Whai (4th)**
Saturday, December 6, 2023 – 15:00
Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua

– **Mainland Pouākai (2nd) vs Southern Hoiho (3rd)**
Sunday, December 7, 2023 – 15:00
Cowles Stadium, Christchurch

Both games will be broadcast live on Sky Sport, and fans are eagerly anticipating this decisive weekend in the Tauihi basketball league.