The Boys Premier team has produced a highly competitive season, reaching the top level of Auckland secondary school basketball.

Last Wednesday, our Boys Premier Basketball team competed in the Central West Open A grand final against Kelston Boys’ High School. It was the team’s first appearance in the final for several seasons. After absorbing pressure in the opening quarter, OHS responded with an excellent second quarter. Strong defence and composed play brought the scores level at half time. Kelston pulled away in the second half, but OHS continued to compete through to the final whistle. Tiaki Strickland and Josh Corric produced standout performances.

This week, the team progressed to the semi finals of the Greater Auckland Basketball Tournament. The competition brings together the leading teams from Auckland’s four zones. Today’s semi final against Kelston could hardly have been closer. OHS fought to the final seconds, with Kelston securing a 41–39 win on the buzzer. The narrow result meant OHS just missed out on progressing to the promotion game. 

Reaching the Central West final and coming within two points of a promotion opportunity reflects how competitive this team has become. It is an exciting sign for the future as we continue to develop basketball at OHS.