Tall Blacks coach Judd Flavell believes giving the ball away too often has cost them a chance at a rare international basketball victory over their Australian rivals

Despite leading at half and three-quarter time in Hobart - New Zealand have gone down 84-79 to the Boomers in the first of two World Cup qualifying games.

Flavell says while performed well in most areas - turnovers was ultimately the key stat.



Breakers centre Sam Menenga came off the bench to lead the Tall Blacks with 19 points and 10 rebounds.

The teams meet again in Wellington on Monday night to complete the Fiba international window.

BASKETBALL COVERAGE WITH BK'S CRISPY FRIED CHICKEN. TOPPED WITH MELTY CHEESE SAUCE...AND MORE CHEESE