Pioneer lose unbeaten record
Checkers, reinforced by Tall Black Ethan Rusbatch, held on for a 73-71 win over previously unbeaten Pioneer Pacers in Canterbury premier basketball on Saturday.
Ariel Mepana, a former Filipino international, who clinched a buzzer beater to win the Hoben Trophy for Pioneer, wasn’t able to repeat the feat as his opportunity to force overtime was unsuccessful.
Lincoln University were near full strength, just missing the injured Hunter Aarts, while Gators fielded a very young team and did well to stay close.
Lincoln University eventually triumphed 83-75.
Lincoln’s James Cawthorn had a 39 point game, making the task just too difficult for Gators.
American Stephen Nosworthy made a tentative return from injury slotting 12 points and securing 14 rebounds in 21 minutes of court-time for Gators.
Despite a 23-5 first-quarter lead to Atami, University, through Hawkes Bay’s Tony Tolovae (34) making a guest appearance before heading off for the Tall Black trials, fought valiantly.
Atami was able to hold on for the win 68-65 after Tolovae fouled out late.
Only two games were possible in women’s premier championship action.
On Wednesday, North Canterbury was buoyed by strong performances from WBC champion Wildcat players.
Ash Fane with 26 points and Terina Wanoa (17) were backed up by former Tactix player Gemma Hazeldine (19) and proved too strong for Wolverines winning 74-49.
On Saturday, Pioneer had too many experienced guns for the rebuilt University of Canterbury side, powering to an 85-46 win.
Olivia Clark (23), Rachel Pullan (22) and Rosanna Katene added 14 points and heaps of experience against her former team.