Rusbatch leads Checkers to semis
Ethan Rusbatch celebrated his New Zealand Breakers’ development contract by leading Checkers into the Canterbury premier basketball semi-finals.
The Canterbury Rams’ co-captain and swingman delivered a stellar showing as Checkers held off Pioneer Pacers 91-89 in their quarter-final on Saturday at Cowles Stadium.
Rusbatch led the way for Checkers with a game-high 34 points and nine rebounds as they overcame Hoben Trophy winner Pioneer.
It rounded off a memorable week for Rusbatch, who landed a Breakers’ development spot, along with fellow Tall Black Derone Raukawa, and impressive North Harbour schoolboy Sam Waardenburg.
Former national league point guard Marty Davison led the charge for the Pacers, pouring in 30 points.
Checkers led 60-50 at halftime, but Pioneer fought back in the second half, leading 84-82 and 89-88, but couldn’t hold onto their advantage.
Rusbatch’s Checkers side take on Lincoln University, who overcame Wolverines, in the semi-finals.
Pioneer’s season is still alive, progressing to the September 10 semifinals as the highest placed loser, but will face an in-form Gators team.
Gators were too strong for Atami in their quarter-final, triumphing 81-63.
Rams’ forward Marques Whippy scored 23 points while former Tall Black Jeremy Kench added 14.
Lincoln University showed why they are favoured to take out the premier women’s title, thrashing Minties 62-18.
It was a balanced scoring attack for the country students, who received solid contributions from Canterbury Wildcats, Shea Crotty [15], Courtney Hamblin [13] and Fran Edmondson [11].
Lincoln University will meet North Canterbury in the semi-finals.
North Canterbury were beaten 68-64 by University, but receive a second life, advancing to the final four.
Pip Connell and Rosanna Katene both chimed in with 12 points in University’s victory.
University clash with Halswell in the other semi-final.
Junior Tall Fern Esra McGoldrick was in fine touch, scoring 26 points as Halswell prevailed against Pioneer 61-54.
American centre Ashley Gayle fought valiantly in the losing cause for Pioneer, contributing more than half their points with 30.