Last year the Tall Blacks defied their lowly ranking to reach the semi-finals of the World Championships in Indianapolis and were later honoured at the Halberg Sports Awards as New Zealand's best sports team.

Monday's match is an opportunity for Canterbury sports fans to see Coach Tab Baldwin, captain Pero Cameron, right, and many of those Halberg-winners in action against top-flight international opposition in New Zealand's finest indoor venue. The Westpac Centre makes the most of the sport's athleticism, speed and energy.

This first test is being promoted by the Christchurch City Council, in association with the Scenic Circle Rams organisation. Christchurch was awarded the match by Basketball New Zealand in appreciation of the consistent support given by Rams fans to their National Basketball League team.