September 7. Melbourne, Australia. State Netball Hockey Centre

Australia – New Zealand – 91-78 (26-18, 21-27, 26-13, 18-20)

Australian squad captain Matt Nielsen (in the photo) spent at the court 24 minutes, scored 10 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds.

Game 2 is to be held on Friday, September 9, in Brisbane.

Australian national men's basketball team is represented by former NBA superstar Patty Mills, as well as seven European-based players, three local National Basketball League heros and one young college athlete.