Basketball: Job well done, says Baldwin

The Tall Blacks got the hit-out they needed as they head into the world championships in Japan this month, coach Tab Baldwin says.

New Zealand completed a whitewash, winning the second match of the two-game series against Qatar 99-76 at Stadium Southland yesterday.

And although the final score was one-sided, Baldwin said the Tall Blacks stuck to the job.

"I asked the guys for [total effort] and I think we got pretty close to that today," Baldwin said.

"Offensively we got the job done and defensively I thought we were pretty solid."

Baldwin's one reservation was the number of offensive rebounds his side conceded in the first half.

The Tall Blacks' world championship campaign tips off against Spain this Saturday and, although Baldwin was happy, he said Spain would be a step up in class.

Another positive sign for the Tall Blacks was the form of veteran guard Phill Jones who led the scoring with 26 points, including a late flurry of three-pointers.

The 32-year-old was disappointed with his form on the recent tour of South America and was just please to have rediscovered his range.

"When you don't shoot well you get down and disappointed but since coming back to New Zealand ... I've felt more comfortable," Jones said.

The Tall Blacks led 43-37 at half-time but Qatar had put up nine more shots from the floor and been blessed with plenty of second chances, thanks to some poor boxing out.

* Mark Dickel's inclusion in the 12-strong Tall Blacks squad for the world championships will be subject to the outcome of the Sports Disputes Tribunal hearing, Baldwin said.

The veteran point guard was suspended for two matches on Friday after news he had returned a positive test for cannabis.

That suspension ended yesterday.

It is understood a hearing date has been set but Basketball New Zealand was not ready to reveal it last night.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES