The Auckland Tuatara have recorded their third straight win to start the Sal’s NBL season after completing a terrific 84-56 victory over the Canterbury Rams at Cowles Stadium in Christchurch.
It completes a successful road double-header over the weekend for Aaron Young’s side, who beat the Nelson Giants in Nelson on Friday night.
Sunday’s win came on the back of resolute defence while the offense got better as the game wore on.
Chris Johnson had a big day with another double double. He led all scorers with 24 points and grabbed 15 boards to go with five blocks, a pair of assists and a pair of steals.
Rob Loe poured in 18 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and a steal in an equalling impressive outing.
The twin towers had plenty of help with Taki Fahrensohn adding 14 points, Dontae Russo-Nance 15 points, five rebounds and five assists while youngster Braydon Iuli contributed 13 points off the bench.
Loe was delighted with the weekend’s efforts that has seen the Tuatara move to the top of the Sal’s NBL ladder.
“Coming on the road 2-0 I am really happy with the way the boys fought tonight,” Loe said ahead of a match-up next weekend against the defending champion Saints in Wellington.
“They [the Saints] haven’t started the season well but they will have a week of practice and will come out better and we will have to do the same.”
The Tuatara will now have eight days off before a Monday night game against the Saints.
Import point guard Siler Schneider is due to arrive this week and is expected to play against the Saints.