Basketball: Airs lose fourth game in a row in NBL

File photo by John Velvin

The Taranaki Airs have slipped to a fourth straight defeat after falling 88-69 to the Wellington Saints in their Sal’s NBL clash in Hāwera.

Both sides struggled to find rhythm early, combining for 14 first-quarter turnovers as the Saints edged ahead 15-13 at the first break in a low-scoring opening spell.

Wellington began to gain control in the second quarter through star import Elijah Pepper, who shot efficiently and piled on points to help the visitors build a six-point halftime lead.

The Airs showed signs of a fightback after the break, sparked by Aaron Cook Jr, whose aggressive play and ball pressure helped Taranaki briefly close the margin during the third quarter.

However, the Saints responded in the final period, tightening defensively and capitalising on turnovers to pull away late and secure their fourth consecutive victory.

Cook Jr was one of the Airs’ best with 15 points, five assists and four steals, while James Moors produced a strong all-round effort with 14 points and nine rebounds. Quintin Bailey added 10 points and finished with a +12 rating while on court.

Pepper led all scorers with 29 points and eight rebounds for Wellington, while Akech Aliir added 19 points and eight rebounds. Carlin Davison also contributed across the board with 10 points, seven assists and three steals.

There was better news for Taranaki in the Rapid League curtain-raiser, with the Airs securing their first win of the season after beating the Saints 50-31.

The home side burst out to a dominant start and led 20-7 after the opening quarter before extending the margin to 33-17 at halftime.

The Saints threatened a comeback in the second half and cut the deficit to two points, but the Airs steadied to close out the victory.

Riley Tuuta starred with 20 points, six rebounds and four assists, while Zavier Adam impressed with eight points, five assists and five steals.