TARANAKI MOUNTAINAIRS fight back, but not enough as GIANTS win 84-82

Demarshay Johnson had a strong game with 23 points 12 rebounds and 2 blocks. Mountainairs fought back with two threes by Leasure to have a brief two point lead, Jones replied with two threes of his own. Halftime the Giants had the lead at 45-41

Giants took advantage of early turnovers by the Airs and extended their lead to 9, Airs countered with a three point play by Johnson and lay ups from Davey and Leasure to cut deficit to 3.

A couple of threes from Jones and Bloxham helped build the Giants lead to 12 to end the third,

To start the fourth the Giants led by as many as 15 and it all looked but over for the Airs, but they showed resolve going on an 8-0 run.

Giants would now be in a dogfight and would commit 5 fourth quarter turnovers compared to none for the Airs.

With 58 seconds remaining the score was all tied up from two made free throws by Johnson. Airs then forced a Rampton turnover and had a chance to take the lead. A missed three pointer by Davey ensured that the Giants would have the last shot. Harrison had only nine for the game but nailed the jumpshot that counted.