The Auckland Tuatara have won two from four in a tough opening day at the 3×3 Cup in Invercargill marred by an injury to Ryan Laumatia.
The talented 23-year-old came down hard on his knee in the Tuatara’s win over Waikato University and had to be helped from the court.
His kneecap came out of its socket, and he will await scans on Thursday to determine the extent of the injury.
Laumatia flew back to Auckland late on Wednesday and has been replaced by Taine Wattie, who will link up with the rest of the side on Thursday.
The 2023 Sal’s NBL runners-up proved too good for the Hawke’s Bay Hawks in the opening game of the tournament as they rode the hot hand of guard Reuben Fitzgerald to a 21-14 victory.
The Tuatara got off to a bright start against the Whai in their second game, but the NBL newcomers came storming back to secure a win.
Despite Laumatia’s injury and a length delay the Tuatara were able to hold on for a 19-16 win against Waikato University in the third match of the day.
But they proved no match for the Nelson Giants in the late match – going down 21-12 as they struggled to keep pace with the Giants.
The Tuatara open day 2 with a game against the Franklin Bulls at 11.25am.