Hunter Lethlean – controlling the court
23 Jul 2025
At 16, Christ’s College student Hunter Lethlean is one of the youngest referees controlling basketball games at national competitions in New Zealand.
He has already overseen 155 games for Canterbury Basketball and 37 games for Basketball New Zealand, including refereeing both the high-pressure 2025 U16 Nationals Boys Grand Final and the 2024 U16 Nationals Girls Grand Final.
In 2024, Hunter was named the Most Valuable Junior Referee in Canterbury, taking to the court for the province at tournament level, along with refereeing Division One men’s games, and secondary school and club games.
“I have always wanted to referee basketball,” he says. “I thought it would be good to see the game from a different perspective. I have always loved basketball, and this is a great way to get involved and give back to the game.
“It can be very challenging dealing with the on-court physicality and some of the sideline supporters and, occasionally, coaches, but you have to stand your ground and back yourself.
“I have become stronger each season, learning how best to handle games and on-court differences while continuing to grow my knowledge of the game. I know I can do it, even if I am often the same age or even much younger than those I am refereeing.
“Being selected as ‘crew chief’ at the national tournament has been a highlight as I lead the pre-game talk and deal with problems that occur. I enjoy my time at nationals and the acknowledgement of being given more responsibility, such as refereeing the finals.”
Hunter initially stepped onto the court with the Pioneer Basketball Club back in 2021 when he was in Year 8. Today, he is guiding the new generation of Years 7–8 would-be referees.
He appreciates the support of College to step up for basketball, regionally and nationally, with ongoing support from staff and peers.
Hunter hopes to reach the highest levels of professional refereeing, driving for a spot at the FIBA World Cup and in the Australian and New Zealand NBL.
