James Paringatai remembers where his soaring basketball career took its first tentative steps ... and he was back at Wanganui City College this week to share his latest success.
The 6ft 7in (200cm) captain of the Southland Sharks brought with him the trophy his team won earlier this month at the national basketball championships in Hawke's Bay.
The Southland Sharks beat Wellington 80-61 in the semifinals and Nelson 91-80 in the final to become New Zealand champions.
Mr Paringatai, 27, came from Taihape on a scholarship to City College to play basketball in 2002-2003 - his final two years at college. Principal Peter Kaua had not yet started at the school, but Bill Ashworth, teacher in charge of basketball was there.
And this week he was proud to see his former student return with his young son Cooper - and the coveted trophy.