From Opunake to India
The basketball season might be drawing to a close, but it’s just gotten busier for Isabelle Cook.
The 16-year-old was playing in the national secondary schools tournament for Opunake High School this week, and will represent New Zealand in India later in the month.
Cook, who plays at power forward - often referred to as the four, was one of 12 players to be selected for the national under-17s girls’ squad that will travel to India for the girls’ under-16 Asia Cup from October 22-28.
While she was excited to be selected, Cook left the trials unsure of her chances.
‘‘There was about six of us who were battling for the four. To be honest I wasn’t sure I’d get in. Initially, everyone thought I could, but I’ve just got to believe in myself I guess - I have to now since I’ll be going against six-foot-five girls.’’
The team travel to India on October 17, getting there early to get used to the playing conditions before the tournament starts.
Cook said she was expecting a fast, physical tournament and was excited to get on the court with her team mates.
Having played in the national women’s league with the Taranaki Thunder this year, Cook was ready for the lift in intensity of international age-grade basketball and was hoping to get the start at the four to open the event.
‘‘In the scrimmages we’ve had I have been starting at the four. But it’ll depend on how I actually go when we’re over there.
‘‘I’m probably one of the tallest so we’ll have to focus on boxing out and not letting them get middle. But I’ve been playing women’s this year so I’ve gotten used to having to do that.’’
But before she can focus on the tournament in India, Cook will look to help Opunake High School’s girls’ team defend their national title this week in Palmerston North.
Despite the quick turnaround between events, Cook was confident she’d be good to go.
‘‘It’s a quick turnaround, but my body should be all right. I’m just excited to go travel the world with basketball. Not many people get the opportunity to do that.’’