The Auckland Tuatara have fallen to a third successive defeat after coming up agonisingly short in a 78-76 thriller in Mt Maunganui on Tuesday night.
The lead went back and forth between the two teams throughout the contest, but the Whai were able to score on the penultimate play of the game.
Cam Gliddon’s side had a chance to send the game to overtime or even win it on the buzzer but their final play broke down.
Import Buay Tuach was the shining light for the Tuatara, going off for 31 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
Youngsters Matthew Dalton and KC Ioane were very impressive in a tight game as well.
The Tuatara will welcome Rob Loe back for Sunday’s game against the Nelson Giants in Auckland.