Southland Sharks (7-8, 6th) v Logik Franklin Bulls (7-9, 8th)
The Sharks are back in the thick of the finals chase, but they'll need to defend the Shark Tank once again to keep pace with a crowded group of teams also chasing postseason hopes. The Bulls have dropped six straight, yet remain firmly in the mix—but time is running out. Can the Sharks stay hot, or will the Bulls finally find the formula to return to the winner's circle?
When: Sunday 15th June, Rapid League 5:30pm, Sal's NBL 6:30pm
Where: ILT Stadium Southland, Invercargill
Watch: Live in New Zealand on Sky Sport 4 | USA: ESPN3 | International: FIBA YouTube |
Last Time Out:
The Sharks returned to ILT Stadium Southland looking to build on last week’s road win over the Airs—and they delivered. Despite a fast start from the visitors, the Sharks hung tough in a back-and-forth battle. Keylan Boone (26 pts, 7 rebs) and Caleb Asberry (21 pts, 4 rebs, 9 asts) powered a late surge as the Sharks took control in the fourth to seal a 99–90 victory. The Airs were led by Carlin Davison (26 pts, 6 rebs, 8 asts), with support off the bench from Jaylen Gerrand and Dom Kelman-Poto, but they faded late. The result keeps the Sharks’ finals hopes alive and well.
The Bulls came out with intent against the Saints, taking a five-point halftime lead behind strong efforts from Tobias Cameron (12 pts, 4 asts, 3 rebs) and Till Gloger (18 pts, 9 rebs). But the Saints responded after the break. Hyrum Harris (13 pts, 14 rebs, 8 asts, 3 stls) marked his 150th game with a near triple-double, and Nick Marshall (25 pts, 7 rebs) led a second-half surge. The Bulls couldn’t keep pace, falling 93–77 and extending their losing streak to six games.
What to Expect:
The Sharks have rediscovered their form with a settled lineup heading into the final stretch. Josiah Allick and Sam Timmins form a bruising frontcourt presence, dominating the paint and glass. Their offensive volume can be low at times, but they’ve shown the ability to lift when needed. Keylan Boone has emerged as the go-to scorer, with efficient perimeter shooting and aggressive rim attacks. Caleb Asberry is the x-factor, though better ball security could elevate both his game and the team's ceiling. The supporting cast brings valuable tools—Alonzo Burton’s shooting, Tukaha Cooper and Johnny Helu’s energy, and Brayden Inger’s versatility. Ball control will be critical—if the Sharks protect possession, they should protect the Shark Tank too.
The Bulls' offensive struggles are well-documented—just one game over 87 points during their six-game slide. To spark a turnaround, Flynn Cameron has been inserted into the starting lineup. His chemistry with Tae Hardy will be key, as both guards can pressure defenses with penetration and shot-making, but improved efficiency is needed. The Bulls love to attack the paint—either off the bounce or via post-ups to Gloger and David Okwera—but more volume from deep, especially from Ethan Rusbatch, could help balance their attack. Bench energy will be vital, with Tobias Cameron, Jordan Hunt, and Marcel Jones all needing to provide impact minutes on both ends.
Matchup to Watch: Keylan Boone v Flynn Cameron - Boone has been explosive of late, blending size and skill to overwhelm defenders. Cameron gives up size in the matchup but has the strength to hold his ground in the post and the quick hands to disrupt Boone’s handle. A clash of styles between these players will have huge influence on the games winner.
Stats that Might Matter:
| Stat | Sharks | Bulls |
| Scoring Offense | 89.53 (5th) | 85.06 (10th) |
| Scoring Defense | 92.53 (8th) | 87.13 (4th) |
| Effective Field Goal % | 55% (1st) | 52% (6th) |
| Field Goal % Defense | 45% (7th) | 44% (3rd) |
| Free Throw Rate | 26% (8th) | 24% (last) |
| Free Throw % | 76% (2nd) | 73% (5th) |
| Three Point Rate | 44% (1st) | 37% (9th) |
| Three Point % | 36% (1st) | 31% (10th) |
| Turnover Rate | 15% (10th) | 16% (last) |
| Assist Rate | 65% (2nd) | 57% (6th) |
| Offensive Rebound Rate | 26% (6th) | 27% (5th) |
| Defensive Rebound Rate | 72% (9th) | 73% (5th) |
| Block Rate | 10% (3rd) | 9% (4th) |
| Steal Rate | 8% (9th) | 10% (7th) |
all advanced stats courtesy of spatialjam.com
