7 Apr 2016
AUCKLAND (FIBA 3x3 World Tour) - Number one 3x3 player in New Zealand Karl Noyer led his Auckland team to victory at the Burger King 3x3 Quest, securing a return to the FIBA 3x3 World Tour in Beijing on 16-17 September 2016.
"It was a tough long tournament," the 28-year-old Noyer said.
"We played six pool games and had comfortably won against [eventual finalists] West Auckland during these games.
We knew the final would be tough due to physical exhaustion and the pressure of both teams wanting the win. - Noyer
"Obviously playing against old team-mates, you have a greater insight into their style and game play under pressure."
The final indeed reunited Noyer with former number one 3x3 player in New Zealand Patrich Bolstad, who played together at the World Tour Manila Masters last year.
The game was an absolute thriller with West Auckland missing a potential game-winner in the closing seconds and Auckland prevailing 13-12.
"It feels great to qualify two years in a row," told Noyer aka "The Beard".
"I am excited to get to experience a World Tour event in Beijing this time."
Team Auckland will also feature two-time FIBA 3x3 World Tour participant John Harrison and newcomers Rory Fannon and James McLeod. Fannon is no stranger to 3x3, having played for the New Zealand national team at the 2014 FIBA 3x3 World Championships.
The #53 player in the world Karl Noyer believes that this year he can improve from his quarter-final outing in Manila last season.
"Having experienced the World Tour once before I feel as though we will be more focused coming into this event," the lefty sharpshooter said.
"We have a longer time period to prepare, train and focus before Beijing. Being knocked out in the quarter finals last year makes me more determined this time round!"
FIBA