Basketball: Airs surrender strong lead to lose against Bulls

File photo by John Velvin

The Taranaki Airs have let a commanding first-half lead slip, going down 84-81 to the Franklin Bulls in a heartbreaking Sal's National Basketball League defeat.

The defeat continued a frustrating run for the Airs, who have now lost several close games in recent weeks after also falling narrowly to the Canterbury Rams and NBS Nelson Giants despite being in winning positions.

The Airs looked in complete control after an impressive opening half, leading 22-15 at quarter-time before extending their advantage to 49-32 at the main break through accurate shooting and balanced scoring.

But the Bulls produced a stunning turnaround after halftime, piling on 34 points in the third quarter as Jace Carter and Derrin Boyd caught fire from three-point range. Franklin cut the deficit to just one point heading into the final quarter at 67-66.

The lead changed hands several times in a tense finish before Boyd drained the go-ahead three-pointer with 52 seconds remaining to give the Bulls an 83-80 lead.

James Moors reduced the margin to two points after making one of two free throws, but Kael Robinson calmly converted another free throw with four seconds remaining. Robinson then sealed the result with a steal from the ensuing inbound pass, denying the Airs one last chance to force overtime.

Taane Samuel led the Airs with 14 points, while Marcel Jones added 12 points and five assists. Brandon Stroud finished with 11 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, narrowly missing a triple-double.

For Franklin, Charter Whitt starred with 20 points and 11 assists, while Derrin Boyd also scored 20 points and Jace Carter added 17 points and 16 rebounds.

The loss leaves the Airs to rue a missed opportunity after surrendering a 17-point halftime advantage.

Earlier, the Airs' Rapid League side continued its strong form with a 42-35 win over the Franklin Bulls.

Jerome Tamatea led the way with 15 points as Taranaki broke the game open in the second quarter, outscoring Franklin 14-5 before holding off a late comeback. Riley Tuuta added eight points in the victory.

The Airs remain on the road next weekend when they face the Auckland Tuatara away from home.