The opening round of the 2021 Sal's NBL season delivered a huge surge in crowd numbers, some thrilling heart-stopping finishes, plenty of big performances from this year's crop of imports and some standout showings from a number of New Zealand's rising young stars.
Let's take a look back on The Week That Was.
Sharks Survive In A Thriller
The SIT Zero Fees Southland Sharks looked set for a big win last Thursday night but somebody forgot to tell that to the Steelformers Taranaki Mountainairs. It took a Josh Cunningham shot with seconds remaining for the Orange Army to celebrate. Sharks 78 - Airs 76.
Huskies Create History With First Home Win
The Sky Tower Auckland Huskies brought Sal's NBL basketball back to Auckland's north shore on Friday night and moved to a 2-0 start for the season courtesy of a high-scoring 106-97 victory over the Property Brokers Manawatu Jets.
Saints On Fire Against Rams
The Wellington Saints overcame a fire alarm and stadium evacuation minutes from the opening tip-off to drop an impressive 95-74 win over the Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams.
Bulls Create History In An Amazing Contest
The EnviroNZ Franklin Bulls put on an incredible show and celebrated a thrilling 100-99 win against the Property Brokers Manawatu Jets, marking the organisation's first ever Sal's NBL win on their home floor.
Nuggets Strike Gold Against Airs
The Go Media Otago Nuggets scored their first win at the Edgar Centre since 2014, taking down teh Steelformers Taranaki Mountainairs with a comprehensive 93-66 win.
Hawks Take Down Salt-less Rams
The Taylor Hawke's Bay Hawks finally got their season underway in front of a big home crowd, and they didn't disappoint them, capturing a 104-90 win over a banged-up Rams team missing Jack Salt.
