Yanni Wetzel Joins New Zealand National Team for FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027
November 15, 2025 – Yanni Wetzel, the power forward/center for the Akita Northern Happinets, has been selected to represent New Zealand in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027. The 29-year-old, born in New Zealand, will join the national team from November 17 to December 2.
About Yanni Wetzel
Standing at 208cm and weighing 109kg, Wetzel brings a strong presence to the court. Born on July 8, 1996, he has a wealth of experience playing both college basketball in the U.S. and professionally in Australia, Spain, Germany, and Japan.
- College: St Mary’s University (2015-17), Vanderbilt University (2017-19), San Diego State University (2019-20)
- Professional: South East Melbourne Phoenix (Australia NBL, 2020-21), New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand NBL, 2021-22), Saski Baskonia (Spain Liga ACB, 2022), ALBA Berlin (Germany Bundesliga, 2022-25), Akita Northern Happinets (2025-)
New Zealand Representative History
- FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023
- FIBA Men’s Olympic 2024 Final Qualifying
FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Schedule
Wetzel will participate in the following matches during the tournament:
- Round 1: Friday, November 28, 2025, 17:30 TIPOFF JST – VS Australia representative
- Round 2: December 1, 2025, 15:00 TIPOFF JST – VS Australia representative
Did you know?
Wetzel was instrumental in leading the Akita Northern Happinets to the B.League championship in the 2024-25 season.
Pro Tip
Follow @FIBA on Twitter for live updates and news from the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027.
FAQ
- Q: When will the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 take place?
- A: The tournament will be held from November 27 to December 8, 2025.
- Q: Where can I watch the games?
- A: The games will be broadcast on various platforms. Check your local listings for more information.
Stay tuned to 247Sports News for more updates on Yanni Wetzel and the New Zealand national team’s journey in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027.