Webhits: New Zealand FIBA team does the haka dance

Sep 4, 2014 8:00 AM PHT

Rappler.com

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Webhits: New Zealand FIBA team does the haka dance

Right before their game versus team USA, the New Zealand team shows their opponents – and audience – how Kiwis get ready for battle

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MANILA, Philippines – Right before New Zealand’s basketball team went up against team USA in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain last Tuesday, September 3, they had to psych themselves up.

There was no dugout peptalk. There was no huddle, either.

The team stood on their side of the hardcourt, postured themselves with chests puffed out and legs strong – like warriors ready for combat.

They were doing the haka.

For the uninitiated, it might look like a bunch of big guys krumping, but haka is more than a dance. It is an age-old tradition, a ritual the Maoris of New Zealand do before they head off to war.

Watch the Kiwis prepare for battle. The flabbergasted expression on the US team is priceless. – Rappler.com