The FIBA Under 19s gave Waardenburg a chance to compete against other World Class players ahead of his Freshman season at Miami. His teammate on New Zealand Tai Wynyard plays for Kentucky.
Waardenburg ended the seven game tournament averaging 10.4 points per game, seven rebounds and three assists. He shot 42.9 percent from the floor, just 56.7 percent from the free throw line and made just two of his 13 three-point attempts.
Waardenburg struggled in New Zealand’s final three games of the tournament. In games against Mali, Puerto Rico and Egypt. Waardenburg averaged 8.5 points and five rebounds.