The Auckland Tuatara have clinched a maiden playoffs appearance in their first season competing in the Sal’s NBL after beating the Franklin Bulls 89-68 in Pukekohe on Sunday.
The scores were level at halftime before the visitors pulled away in the second half thanks to a game high 25 points from Rob Loe and 21 points, eight rebounds and nine assists from import guard Siler Schneider.
The Tuatara wore down the Bulls and did a good job defending Tall Blacks guard Corey Webster.
Dontae Russo-Nance chipped in with 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists and six steals while Braydon Iuli had 14 points and Nick Barrow 10.
The win snaps a two-game losing streak and confirms their place in the Sal’s NBL finals.
The Tuatara have one final home game left against the Wellington Saints on Saturday August 6 at Eventfinda Stadium.