The Sal’s NBL had two thrilling encounters with the Giants remaining unbeaten with 93-90 win over the Augusta Airs, and the Cigna Saints beating the Taylor Hawks 93-85.
Tonight, the Giants had to get the win without star forward, Finn Delany, but after a couple of quiet outings, Tohi Smith-Milner, had a season high 27 points on 11/16 shooting.
Kyle Adnam backed up his player of the week effort last week with 20 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds and four steals for the Giants who are now at the top of the table with a 3-0 record.
It was another tough loss for the Airs, who have now lost back to back games by three points. Javonte Douglas had 20 points and nine rebounds, and fellow Roger Woods added 17.
The fourth quarter was a tight one, both teams would share the lead, but a bucket from Smith-Milner, and two free throws from Adnam gave the visitors a three point lead in the closing seconds. Alonzo Burton was unable to convert on the potentially tying three pointer.
Taranaki drop to 1-2, but will have a chance on Sunday to get back on the winners board when they host the 2 Cheap Cars Supercity Rangers.
The Wellington Saints have had to fight back from a nine point third quarter deficit to claim their second win of the season, giving the Hawks their first loss after three straight wins.
Shea Ili had another strong outing with 26 points, LJ Peak had 21 and off the bench Shaun Bruce added 18 for the Saints who outscored the Hawks 28-15 in the fourth quarter.
It looked like the Hawks might come away with the win when forward Jamie Skeen took over the game with three straight three’s in the third quarter. Skeen was a tough cover for the Saints tonight as he would out-muscle his opponents from the inside and stretch the floor from the outside. Skeen ended the game with a game high 29 points. Jarrod Kenny would have 17 and Angus Brandt had 16.
The Hawks will return home in the hopes of giving the Giants their first loss of the season tomorrow and return to the top of the table.
Week 3: Friday, May 11
At TSB Stadium, New Plymouth
Augusta Mountainairs 90 (Javonte Douglas 20, Roger Woods 17, Houston O’Riley 13)
Mike Pero Nelson Giants 93 (Tohi Smith-Milner 27, Kyle Adnam 20, Damon Heuir 18)
Live Stats
At TSB Bank Arena, Wellington
Cigna Saints 93 (Shea ili 26, LJ Peak 21, Shaun Bruce 18)
Taylor Hawks 85 (Jamie Skeen 29, Jarrod Kenny 17, Angus Brandt 16)
Live Stats
Photo: www.photosport.nz
