The Auckland Tuatara have thrashed the Otago Nuggets 105-74 in Dunedin on Sunday to move into the outright lead of the Sal’s NBL and complete a stunning southern sweep over the weekend.
The Tuatara shot out of the blocks and raced out to a huge 33-14 lead at the end of the first quarter.
That exploded to 60-29 at halftime and was never challenged by the Nuggets, who beat the Tuatara in Auckland last month.
Performances were exceptional across the roster – Taki Fahrensohn led all scorers with 25 while he added four rebounds and three steals.
Dontae Russo-Nance was brilliant – just missing a triple double with 21 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists while Siler Schneider had 21 points, nine rebounds and seven assists.
Skipper Rob Loe double doubled with 10 points, 12 rebounds and four points despite batting sickness while youngster Braydon Iuli looked terrific again in 24 minutes of action.
The win means the Tuatara currently hold the head-to-head record with every team in the league.
They’re back in action next Sunday when they host the Canterbury Rams at Eventfinda Stadium.