Mystics win tight derby

The Northern Mystics moved within three points of the Central Pulse in the ANZ Premiership ahead of their toptwo clash today.

They had to fight hard at Auckland Netball Centre last night, but eventually prevailed in the Auckland derby, beating the Northern Stars 51-47.

With the win, the Mystics now have a four-point gap back to the Stars.

The Stars eked out a slender lead for the first time since the end of the second half with three minutes to go and as the teams headed to the fourth they were up by one, 39-38.

With five minutes to go, there was nothing separating them again. That was when the Mystics struck, opening up a three-goal lead with three minutes to play. They missed a chance to make it four, but the damage had been done, and they got there in the end.

Basketball New Zealand is taking another leap of faith with the 3X3 game by introducing an elite domestic competition structured on its successful national leagues for men and women. The national organisation yesterday unveiled the NBL’s Schick 3X3 Cup to be held in Invercargill in September and is designed as a major stepping stone for elite basketballers to potentially achieve their Olympic dreams.

NBL Schick 3X3 Cup, September 3-5, Stadium Southland, Invercargill: Men:

Auckland Huskies, Nelson Giants, Canterbury Rams, Otago Nuggets, Taranaki Airs, Southland Sharks, Manawatu Jets, Franklin Bulls, Hawke’s Bay Hawks, Invitational Team.

Harbour Breeze, Otago Gold Rush, Auckland Dream, Taranaki Thunder, Northland Phoenix, Canterbury Wildcats, Bay of Plenty Blaze, Waikato Wizards, Capital Swish, Invitational Team.

■ In NBL matches on Thursday, the Auckland Huskies beat the Taranaki Mountain Airs 102-99 and the Otago Nuggets edged the Canterbury Rams 75-74.

Women: