Bringing Streetball to a court near you...

For immediate release 31 October 2005

The Boost Mobile Street Tour
Bringing Streetball to a court near you...

This summer Boost Mobile is proud to bring you the ultimate in Streetball. The tour kicks off in Wellington on 12th November and will visit 5 cities around the country. New Zealand streetballers will have their chance to slam, dunk and show off their slickest moves when the tour hits the courts in their town.

The Boost Mobile Street Tour will feature some of New Zealand’s top Streetball players with appearances by Tall Blacks and NBL players. At each town, teams and individuals will be able to register to take part in a Streetball Tournament which includes running ‘shoot out’ and ‘dunk’ competitions.

Streetball first began in the 50’s in America and its popularity has steadily risen with Pro Leagues starting up in both Europe and in the USA. Streetball has developed a unique following amongst kids around the world due to its accessibility – anyone who wants to play can, without having to join a club or pay money. It can be played anywhere, anytime and it’s free.

Event Manager and ex-Tall Black, Chris Simpson says “The growing popularity of Streetball has been evident around the world for over a decade. However it has only been in the last two years in New Zealand that local councils have started recognizing the demand by building a number of new outdoor courts.”

In New Zealand, Streetball is rapidly becoming an urban phenomenon. This year, South Auckland teenager Leon Henry was selected for the Tall Blacks squad after being spotted at last year’s Boost Mobile Street Tour and at the AND1 Mixtape Tour Open Run. Having recently secured a sponsorship to play in the USA, he has been noted as a rising young star for future Tall Black teams and is being touted as a potential for the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

The Boost Mobile Street Tour recognises and supports local talent in all areas of street culture. Marketing Manager Raelene Castle says “We see the Tour as a natural extension of the work that Boost has done to date. It’s about bringing community’s together, encouraging emerging talent, and providing an environment for kiwi kids to have their turn to shine.”

Teams or persons interested in registering for the Streetball Tournament should check out www.boostmobile.co.nz. Registrations will take place at 9.30am at each town location (see itinerary below).

Itinerary:

REGION, VENUE, DATE

Wellington Civic Plaza Saturday 12th November 2005
Napier Soundshell Saturday 19th November 2005
Tauranga Baypark Raceway (as part of the Mount Festival) Saturday 26th November 2005
Hamilton Civic Centre Saturday 3rd December 2005
Auckland Westfield Carpark – Manukau City Saturday 10th December 2005

ENDS

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