NZL - Baldwin upbeat after Kiwis throw scare into Argentina

BUENOS AIRES (FIBA World Championship) - New Zealand coach Tab Baldwin was determined to take the positives out of his side's 85-72 defeat to Olympic champions Argentina.

Continuing their preparations for this month's FIBA World Championship, the Tall Blacks closed to within four points of their hosts inside the final three minutes of Wednesday's game, the seventh and final match of their South American tour.

Argentina relied on stars such as Luis Scola - who finished with 31 points, Fabricio Oberto, Carlos Delfino and Manu Ginobili to inspire their team to a counter-surge.

Baldwin was upbeat in defeat, saying: "Believe me, it was a lot closer than that.

"We really had Argentina on the ropes. I am exceptionally encouraged by our second-half performance and feel like we've made tremendous progress based on that.

"We played tremendous basketball defensively and, offensively, we were very sharp at times as well."

However, Baldwin was critical of his side`s defending, saying: "Our defense just wasn't good. Fifty-four points is a lot to give up in a half.

"We gave away too many opportunities inside."

New Zealand now travel home for a final series against Qatar before heading to Japan.

Baldwin added: "We're looking forward to getting back home, seeing our families and getting back into camp for our final preparations for the world champs.”

Baldwin's men will play in Group B of the World Championship, which tips off in Japan on August 19, along with Japan, Angola, Germany, Panama and Spain.

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