Enjoying a loss

I have a soft spot for basketball. Played it at school and was always high on the list of priorities when working as a freelance photographer. I have some great memories (and photos) from being on the sidelines during the Oceania Test Series in 2001 when we beat Australia in a series for the first time. One of my biggest regrets during my clicking days was chucking the media accreditation forms for the 2002 World Basketball Champs in the bin, deciding I couldn't afford it. The day after accreditation closed, the syndicate I work for had a large win, the result for me meaning I would have more than enough to pay for the trip.

Ah well, enough nostalgia. Last night, with the Blues v Waratahs and the Basketball Gold Medal game on at the same time, it was no contest. Switched on just in time to see the haka (yes, before the game). What followed was one of the most enthralling and high-quality sporting contests you'll see in a long time. At times when watching sport you forget about allegiances and just watch it for the pure spectacle that sport can sometimes produce. There are not many times when I wake up the following morning after NZ has lost to Australia in something and not give a shit.

If you haven't seen the game and get an opportunity to do so, it's worth it. Can't wait for the World Basketball Champs later in the year - hopefully we'll get coverage in NZ as based on the strength of last night's game, both the Kiwis and Aussies will go well.