The Auckland Tuatara continued their dream start to life in the Sal’s NBL with another convincing road win, this time 106-91 over the Saints in Wellington.
It is the fourth successive win to start the season for the league’s only remaining unbeaten side.
Aaron Young’s side jumped out to an early lead and continued to hold the Saints off throughout the contest, turning a 54-46 halftime lead into a 15-point victory.
The Tuatara were once again powered by front court duo Chris Johnson and Rob Loe, with both picking up double doubles.
Johnson poured in 25 points, 17 rebounds, four assists and a block while Loe had 24 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and a block.
Small forward Taki Fahrensohn chipped in with 20 points, five rebounds and five assists while Chris McIntosh added 16 points, three rebounds and three steals.
Perhaps the most encouraging performances for the Auckland outfit came from youngsters Braydon Uili, who was asked to start at point guard with Dontae Russo-Nance missing the game and import Siler Schneider still awaiting a clearance to play, and Tom Beattie.
Uili handled the start well while Beattie made a strong contribution defensively off the bench.
The Tuatara have now beaten the Taranaki Mountainairs in Auckland and had road wins over the Nelson Giants, Canterbury Rams and Wellington Saints.
They back up against the Hawke’s Bay Hawks on Wednesday with a big crowd expected at Eventfinda Stadium.
Tickets can be purchased via www.tuatarabasketball.com.