The Auckland Tuatara bounced back from an opening week loss with a terrific 84-77 win over the Taranaki Airs in their first game at Eventfinda Stadium in the Sal’s NBL.
In a tight battle throughout, the Tuatara rallied from 10 points down early in the fourth quarter to secure a crucial victory against one of the competition’s most favoured sides.
Led by Corey Webster’s 25 points, eight assists, six rebounds and three steals as well as skipper Rob Loe’s 23 points, 14 points and five assists, the Tuatara big names stood up down the stretch to earn their side their first win of the season.
Cam Gliddon (21 points, three rebounds, three steals) was immense as well while guard Chris McIntosh made some huge plays in his first game of the season.
Earlier, the Tuatara had to work hard to earn their second straight win in Sky Broadband Rapid League, a 40-38 win in overtime.
McIntosh was huge in that game as well – scoring nine points and dragging in six boards while Reuben Fitzgerald led the scoring with 10.
The Tuatara head to Tauranga to meet the Whai on Saturday.