Basketball: NZ lose to Canada in thriller

Timing was everything in London, Ontario, yesterday when the New Zealand men's team went down to Canada by three points.

The match referee signalled the end of the game with 5.3s still showing on the clock and Canada ahead, 75-72.

With 30s left, Canadian forward Rowan Barrett hit a three-pointer to break a 69-69 tie.

Tall Black point guard Mark Dickel responded immediately with a three-pointer to tie the scores again, 72-72.

The New Zealand defence worked well to deny Canada as the clock ticked away, until Canadian forward Mike Meeks scored another three-pointer.

Dickel sprinted up to the other end with the ball but the shot missed.

The two teams meet again today at Waterloo.

- NZPA