Sean Marks believes it is about time some more of the New Zealand men's basketball team had attitudes like Mark "Sparky" Dickel.
The guard is renowned for his speed and energy on the court and pep off it, and Marks says we need more players like him.
"Sparky is always hyped up but I think it's time we got some of the other people like myself and Pero to boost the team as well."
His comments came after a disappointing first half against Italy resulting in a 69-71 loss on Monday.
"It wasn't a lack of preperation just a mental breakdown within the players," Marks said.
"It's one of those things that if you could put you finger on it wouldn't happen. I'll take some of the blame being one of the older players. "We'll learn from that and come out against China and play two halves of basketball."
The Tall Black's game plan will need to change a little on Tuesday with 7'5" Yao Ming under the basket.
"That's something we'll tee off on," admitted Marks, who is seven inches shorter.
"China's game plan centers around him so that would mean our defensive plan will center around him for sure.
"That will be a combined effort with myself, Tony, Craig Ed and Pero all getting minutes against him."
The Tall Blacks with face China at the Helliniko basketball complex at 9am on Tuesday.
