Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones

Aniwaniwa “ICEMAN” Tait-Jones, 6’6” Guard, Wellington, New Zealand

Born January 5, 2001, Niwa represents his Māori (Waikaremoana), English (Newcastle), and Irish (Tyrone) heritage. From the courts of Wellington & Auckland to the world stage, his journey is a testament to talent, discipline, and perseverance.

A product of the NZ Basketball Academy, Spire Academy (Ohio), & Wellington Saints’ undefeated 2019 championship team, Niwa earned All-PacWest honours, Freshman & Newcomer of the Year awards at the University of Hawai‘i Hilo before transferring to UC San Diego.

In 2025, he became Big West Player of the Year, Championship MVP, Lou Henson National Award winner, & led UC San Diego to historic success. He later signed with the NBA’s Toronto Raptors &, in 2026, captured Latvian Cup, Latvian-Estonian League, & Latvian League championships while earning two MVP awards.

Mentored by the late Kenny McFadden, Niwa’s story inspires the next generation to dream big and work relentlessly.