The Auckland Tuatara were soundly beaten 81-62 by the cross-town Franklin Bulls in their Sal’s NBL competition opener at Eventfinda Stadium on Saturday night.
The short-handed Tuatara, without Australian NBL Grand Final contenders former MVP Rob Loe or star recruit Will “Davo” Hickey, matched up well early against the Bulls.
Injuries to former League MVP Tom Vodanovich and experienced guard Chris McIntosh further reduced Cam Gliddon’s side.
The Bulls, led by American import Tae Hardy and ex-Tuatara Reuben Te Rangi, pulled away in the second half to take a comfortable win.
The Tuatara will hope to have Loe and Hickey back for their round two clash against the Taranaki Airs on Sunday but will need one of the Australian sides to win the next two matches.
Earlier, the Tuatara looked sharp in Sky Broadband Rapid League to claim a 42-28 win.
Dylan Wilkie’s 17 points powered the home side.