Basketball: Airs suffered fifth straight loss in Canterbury defeat

File photo by: John Velvin

The Taranaki Airs have fallen to a fifth straight National Basketball League defeat after a 113-86 loss to the Canterbury Rams in Hāwera on Sunday night.

Despite a promising start, the Airs were overrun in the second half as one of the competition’s title contenders flexed its depth and attacking power.

The home side came out firing early, knocking down five three-pointers in the opening quarter to keep the Rams on the back foot.

The Airs remained in touch through the first half before Canterbury took control after halftime with a dominant 32-12 third quarter that effectively ended the contest.

Import Tamenang Choh led the Rams with 27 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists in a standout all-round performance, while Taylor Britt added 13 points and eight assists.

Airs guard Xavier Green top-scored for the home side with 22 points and six assists, while James Moors recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Brandon Stroud also added 16 points.

The result continues a difficult stretch for the Airs, who remain searching for their first win since the start of May.

Earlier in the evening, the Airs Rapid League side claimed a 49-40 victory over Canterbury.

Riley Tuuta and Luka Vea helped the home side pull away in the second half after leading by just two points at halftime.

The Airs now return to New Plymouth where they host the Manawatū Jets at TSB Stadium on Friday night.