“As a young Tongan-Niuean, and Māori athlete, we recognise the significance this opportunity has for our wider Pacific community. Representation matters” – Zandalene Matene
Braxton Matene (13) has been selected to represent Hoop 33 Academy for a tournament in America and is calling on community support to help him get there.
Hoop 33 Academy is an intensive player development program for athletes who want to play at a college, semi-pro, or professional level.
For Braxton, his dream is to ‘one day play basketball at the highest level’.
But playing at a high level comes with a cost. The self-funded basketball tournament he’s attending this December costs approximately $8500 per person. Funds raised will go towards flights, accommodation, transportation and other essential expenses.
His mother, Zandalene Matene has created a Givealittle page to help raise the necessary funds.
Described by Zandalene as a ‘young man with a big heart, strong values, and an even bigger dream’, Braxton is thrilled to represent his Pacific-Māori roots on the international court.
“Braxton understands that he is not only representing himself when he steps onto the court,” Zandalene says.
“As a young Tongan-Niuean, and Māori athlete, we recognise the significance this opportunity has for our wider Pacific community. Representation matters.
“When our young people see someone who looks like them, shares their culture, and comes from a similar background achieving their goals, it helps them believe that they can do it too.”
Born and raised in Manurewa, South Auckland, Braxton recently moved to Flatbush to attend Ormiston Senior School. His love for basketball started just three years ago as a casual activity with his school friends, and it has quickly grown into a driving passion.
Alongside his selection for Hoop 33 Academy, Braxton also plays for Papakura Bears Basketball Club. His mother notes that, off the court, Braxton is always watching basketball highlights and studying players to improve his craft and skills in the game.
This dedication paid off when someone noticed Braxton’s potential at a basketball tournament and encouraged Zandalene to sign him up for an American touring team.
“At first, his father and I were hesitant. We weren’t sure if he was ready for that level of competition and questioned whether it was the right time for him,” Zandalene says.
“Despite our doubts, we decided to give him the opportunity and let him attend the trial.”
The trial itself was described by Zandalene as ‘challenging’, noting that Braxton’s nerves initially got the best of him, preventing him from performing at his highest capability. However, those worries turned into overwhelming pride and gratitude when they received an email confirming his selection.
“What we saw as a performance affected by nerves, the selectors saw as potential, determination and talent,” Zandalene says.
“It was a proud and emotional moment for our family and a reminder that sometimes others can see something special in our children before we do.”
As preparations kick in for the tournament, Braxton is utilising social media to document his journey. Through sharing the highs and lows of his progress, Zandalene says Braxton ‘hopes to inspire other young athletes to chase their dreams’.
“Be proud of who you are and where you come from,” Zandalene says.
“Our Pacific and Māori cultures are built on strength, faith, family, respect, and resilience. Carry those values with you wherever you go because they will help guide you through challenges and keep you grounded.”
For Braxton and his family, the upcoming trip is more than just about basketball. It’s about the importance of self-belief and proving that dedication and determination will reap rewards that once seemed impossible.
If you want to support Braxton on his journey to representing his heritage on the world stage, head over to his Givealittle page here.
