Basketball: Otago pip Airs in Dunedin thriller

File photo by John Velvin

The Taranaki Airs came up just short of back-to-back southern victories after falling 91-87 to the Otago Nuggets in a thrilling Sal's NBL clash in Dunedin on Saturday night.

Fresh off their upset win over the Southland Sharks two nights earlier, the Airs looked on track to claim another scalp after overturning a halftime deficit and taking the lead into the final quarter.

However, the Nuggets produced a late surge in front of their home crowd to snatch victory and improve their playoff prospects.

Otago dominated much of the opening half behind veteran forward Craig Moller, who was outstanding with 28 points, 10 rebounds and three assists.

The Nuggets' offensive efficiency helped them build momentum early, but the Airs gradually worked their way back into the contest.

American import Aaron Cook Jr led the charge, producing one of his best performances of the season with 28 points, six rebounds and four assists.

The Airs came out firing after halftime, turning the game on its head with an impressive third quarter as Cook, James Moors and Xavier Green found their rhythm.

Moors contributed 14 points and nine rebounds, while Green added 14 points as Taranaki took a narrow lead into the final period.

But with the game in the balance, the Nuggets found another gear.

Moller continued to cause problems inside, while Buay Tuach chipped in 18 points and eight rebounds and Ethan Rusbatch added 16 points and eight boards.

A series of late baskets helped the home side regain control before holding off the Airs in a tense finish.

The result denied Taranaki consecutive wins on its southern road trip after Thursday's impressive comeback victory over the Southland Sharks.

Earlier, the Airs were beaten 38-28 by the Nuggets in the Rapid League curtain-raiser.

Otago guard Zach McKenzie starred with 22 points, seven rebounds and six steals as the hosts pulled away after a slow start.

Nico Hill led the Airs with 12 points and five rebounds, while Quintin Bailey added six points and four rebounds.