NBA star

Last week Adams was named in an extended squad of 25 for the September tournament, but at the time Basketball New Zealand said they were still to confirm his availability.

Basketball New Zealand has since received the following statement from Steven Adams' agent at Wasserman Media Group.

"Steven's support of the Tall Blacks and his interest in playing for the program at some point down the line is unwavering.

Steven Fūnaki Adams, a center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, dropped to the floor from the kicks in pain each time in Game 2 and Game 3 of the Western Conference series. The officials looked on as if nothing had happened without penalizing Draymond Green of the defending champions, Golden State (California) Warriors. 

WHAT GOES AROUND, COMES AROUND