The Haka is a testament to New Zealand’s cultural history, a traditional Maori dance that is performed at weddings, funerals and many things in between.
It’s best known as the pregame ritual of All Blacks national rugby team, who have been performing it before every match since 1905.
While we’re all familiar with the intimidating custom on these shores, the nation’s basketball team decided to perform the ritual before a game against the USA at this year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup.
USA stars Derrick Rose and James Harden looked on in awe as thighs were slapped and chants hollered.
Unfortunately, the Haka turned out to be the only highlight of the night for the Tall Blacks (see what they did there) as the USA wiped the floor with them 98-71.
Watch the Kiwis do their thing ahead of their game against the USA.
The 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup have been taking place in Spain since August 30th and until 14th September featuring the best international players from all continents.
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