New Zealand players perform 'haka' dance before facing Gilas Pilipinas

It has been tradition for New Zealand sports team to perform the haka before beginning their competition. On Saturday, Gilas Pilipinas fans were treated to the dance, as the Wellington Saints club performed the ritual before facing the national team.

New Zealand performs their haka before tipoff vs Gilas Pilipinas in Day 1 of MVP Cup. @gmanews @FireQuinito pic.twitter.com/YHHB0WnPma

— Marisse Panaligan (@marspanaligan) September 12, 2015

The ritual, a traditional war cry from the Maori people of New Zealand, was a huge hit with the crowd.

The Araneta Coliseum crowd loves New Zealand's haka before tipoff. @gmanews @FireQuinito pic.twitter.com/6X0zFtjtof

— Marisse Panaligan (@marspanaligan) September 12, 2015

- JST, GMA News