As the countdown to the 2024 Sal's NBL season reaches its final stretch, the Taranaki Steelformers Airs are ready to let their basketball do all the talking.
With a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the Airs are primed to captivate audiences around the world, thanks in part to the broadcast deal Sky Sport NZ struck with ESPN in American and FIBA's YouTube channel.
Today marks a pivotal moment in the team's preparation, as they step onto the court for their first pre-season fixture at the Westside Blitz. For Head Coach Sam Mackinnon, a revered figure in Australian basketball, this represents a first chance to witness his squad play a competitive game in the flesh, to observe their chemistry, and to begin shaping their collective identity.
“After this weekends camp, I’m excited for the group to play in the Westside Blitz.
Drew and Aled have worked tirelessly with the group throughout preseason, developing individual skills and team concepts. The High-Performance team have also done a magnificent job preparing all players for the regular season and rapid league”. Coach Mackinnon replied when asked about his expectations of the Westside Blitz.
Mackinnon's leadership is infused with a winning mindset and strategic acumen honed over years of elite competition. With a keen eye for talent and a commitment to excellence, he stands as the guiding force behind the Airs' quest for success.
As they prepare to square off against formidable opponents in the Sal's NBL, the Airs do so with a sense of purpose and camaraderie. Each practice session, each scrimmage, serves as a building block toward their ultimate goal: Being competitive, Always. And hopefully bringing glory to Taranaki with a Championship.
For fans eagerly awaiting the tip-off of the season, there is a real sense of anticipation in the air. The Taranaki Airs represent more than just a basketball team; they are ambassadors for their community, symbols of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
To keep updated on everything Airs, head to www.taranakiairs.com or follow @TaranakiAirs on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.