Basketball: Airs crush Hawks to stay in finals hunt

The Taranaki Airs kept their National Basketball League finals hopes alive with a convincing 96-74 victory over the Hawke's Bay Hawks in Napier on Thursday night.

Needing a win to stay in the playoff race, the Airs produced one of their most complete performances of the season, controlling the contest from the opening tip and never allowing the home side to build any sustained momentum.

Taranaki's defensive intensity laid the platform, forcing the Hawks into difficult shots while turning defence into easy transition baskets at the other end.

The Airs led after the opening quarter and gradually stretched their advantage throughout the night with balanced scoring and disciplined execution on both ends of the floor.

Every time the Hawks threatened to close the gap, Taranaki responded with timely baskets and defensive stops to remain firmly in control before cruising to a 22-point victory.

American guard Brandon Stroud starred with a near triple-double, finishing with 24 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists, while also collecting four steals in an outstanding all-round display.

James Moors continued his strong season with another double-double, recording 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Aaron Cook Jr also made an important contribution to earn MVP votes.

For Hawke's Bay, Chase Jeter battled hard with 23 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks, while Alonzo Burton added 14 points and four assists.

The result completed a season sweep of the Hawks for the Airs and keeps their postseason aspirations alive heading into the closing stages of the regular season.

Earlier, the Airs were beaten 37-25 by the Hawks in the Rapid League curtain-raiser after struggling to break down Hawke's Bay's defensive pressure. The Hawks controlled the tempo throughout the low-scoring contest and held Taranaki to just 25 points.

The Airs now face another crucial challenge when they travel to Christchurch to take on the Canterbury Rams on Thursday night