The Auckland Tuatara have made it four wins on the bounce as they defeated the Manawatu Jets 104-98 at Fly Palmy Arena on Sunday.
The two sides could not be separated for much of the game – the scores were tied up at the end of the opening quarter and again at halftime.
But the visitors pushed clear with a strong third quarter before the Jets make in-roads late, ultimately too late as the Tuatara held their nerve.
Reuben Te Rangi paced the Tuatara offense with 30 points, including a perfect 8-8 at the charity stripe.
Rob Loe was strong for the Tuatara as well, double doubling with 25 points and 11 boards while Jarrad Weeks had 17 points, seven rebounds and nine assists.
Teenager Charlie Dalton continued his break-out season, contributing 15 points and six rebounds, including a pair of put back shots late in the game.
The Tuatara have now had wins over the Hawks, Nuggets, Rams and Jets in the past fortnight to move to the top of the Sal’s NBL standings.
They return home to Eventinda Stadium next Saturday night for a return game against the Jets.