Hype Builds for Manuka Doctor Celeb Slam

Former All Blacks wizard Carlos Spencer has predictably shown some skill at Breakers training today ahead of the Manuka Doctor Celeb Slam at Spark Arena on November 26.

However, both Spencer and motorsport great Greg Murphy were shown up somewhat by ACT Leader David Seymour.

It is debatable as to whether Seymour is a better dancer than he is a basketballer, but after the shootaround, both Tom Abercrombie and Finn Delany were keen to have the politician on their side for the game, which is to raise funds for Starship Hospital.

“David’s definitely got some energy out there; he’s charging around like it’s game time already, Carlos looks like he’s picked up a ball before and can shoot a little bit, and Greg looks a bit of a darkhorse,” said Abercrombie.

His rival captain Finn Delany agrees.

“Carlos looks like he’s got a good jump shot, but David’s going to bring the energy; I think it’s a win/win really, to be honest.”

If Seymour can play as well as he moves his lips, then the game could be interesting.

“I’m confident that I can be better at shooting hoops than Phil Twyford is at building houses or light rail, and failing that, I promise to resign from basketball forever,” he joked.

“It’s going to be fantastic, and what a great charity Starship, its helped a lot of my constituents, so I’m really pleased that the Breakers have been adventurous enough to actually include me in this.

“I’m very grateful to be involved in what is becoming the fastest growing sport for a lot of my constituents.  

“The competition’s pretty hot, you look at King Carlos, I mean that guy’s got calf muscles bigger than actual calves, you can see that on the farm, and then Greg Murphy, you know if you can’t do timing then you can’t actually go through the dipper at 180ks an hour at Bathurst, that’s going to come in handy, so I’m under no illusion this is some very tough competition. 

“Starship will be the winner on the day, and possibly there will be economic spinoffs from this game my physiotherapist – Simon, if you’re listening, this could be a big opportunity for you too.”

Seymour is not the only Member of Parliament playing with Green Party breakout star Chloe Swarbrick also set to take the court.  

Despite being at polar opposites in the political spectrum, Seymour says he would have no problem being drafted on the same team as her.

“I’ve actually worked extensively with Chloe Swarbrick on the End of Life Choice Act,” he said.

“I’ve got a lot of time and personal regard for Chloe Swarbrick. She’s a good person.” 

The make up of the two teams will be known next Tuesday after the draft.

Other celebrities involved alongside the Sky Sport Breakers stars include Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Junior Fa, Irene van Dyk, Jenny-May Clarkson, and Israel Adasanya.