Rams Secure Rising Star

The signing of Christ’s College standout Hunter Adam represents yet another reason to follow the Rams in 2022.

Adam is presently in training to secure a spot on the New Zealand U18 squad, preparing for the U18 FIBA Asia Cup in Iran later this year. Success would mean qualifying for the U19 FIBA World Cup in Hungary in 2023.

According to Canterbury Rams General Manager Caleb Harrison: “Playing for one of New Zealand’s top-ranked high school teams has given Hunter both the skills and appetite to take on the world.

“This is the motivation we want as part of our squad in 2022.”

Incumbent Head Coach Judd Flavell welcomes Adam’s strength and athleticism.

“He’s a high upside forward and an extremely strong finisher at and above the rim. We’ve seen his ability to play both inside and out, utilising his strengths depending on the opponent,” Flavell adds.

As one of New Zealand’s most promising Year 13 forwards, Hunter already has experience representing his country, from the U15 FIBA Oceania Championships in Papua New Guinea in 2018. The New Zealand U17 team missed out on attending FIBA U17 Oceania Championships in 2021 due to the pandemic, but look forward to participating in the upcoming FIBA U18 Asia Championships (21 – 28 August). Adam is also looking forward to his final season with Christ’s College, where he is coached by Rams assistant Ben Sheat. “Hunter is developing his ability to make three pointers, and approaches his training daily with a laser focus that will serve him well for the future.”

Few players have such a superb ability to protect the rim, Flavell adds.

“Defensively he plays vertically, and with exceptional timing. As Hunter comes into Year 13, we recognise his willingness to learn and grow – the hallmark of greatness and an asset to our squad.”