The Auckland Tuatara finished the Westside Blitz without a win but coach Cam Gliddon got some answers about his young side ahead of the season proper.
The Tuatara had narrow losses to the Saints and Jets – both games Gliddon’s side could have won.
A number of young players put their hands up in the absence of front-line stars – Rob Loe, Tom Vodanovich, Will Hickey, Dan Fotu, Chris McIntosh and Nick Barrow.
Rosmini College student Mattie Dalton was one to impress while Dylan Wilkie excelled in his role as well.
Noa Latu performed admirably in some tough situations while Josh Wyllie and Josh Leger also played plenty of minutes.
Imports Buay Tuach and Charles Pride got their first taste of Kiwi basketball, taking some time to adjust to the way the game is played and officiated, but both showed plenty of their talent.
Despite and disrupted travel day Tuesday and having to miss a game, coach Cam Gliddon was happy with how it went.
“It was a good chance for us all to get a bit of a dry run and get some time together before the season starts,” Gliddon said.
“We had a young and inexperienced side with some guys that haven’t played much together.
“There were some really good things and plenty that we need to work on.
“Overall – the team gelled well together and I can’t wait to get into properly come Saturday night.”
The Tuatara open their 2025 Sal’s NBL campaign with a home game against the Franklin Bulls at Eventfinda Stadium.