With the growing popularity of basketball in New Zealand, children as young as 11 are being chosen to represent the nation in the sport.
Two players from each regional side can be chosen for the New Zealand under-12 boys representative side.
The two chosen from Counties Manukau happen to be twins.
Mikaera and Kaperiera Hoeta have been selected to represent New Zealand in the Australia Jamobree Basketball Competition.
"I'm really surprised we’re going to Australia," Kaperiera told TVNZ1's Te Karere.
It will be the boys first trip to Australia and they’re confident they will play well.
"We’re confident because we’re excited to be part of the team," says Mikaera.
They pair initially struggled to get support to make it over to the competition until their local community raised nearly $2,000 for the twins.
The tournament will commence in Australia on the 23rd to 26th of November.
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