Otago Nuggets 68 - Manawatu Jets 67

9 April 2023, Edgar Centre

Box Score

Summary

The Nuggets have started their season with a win, defeating a fast-finishing Manawatu Jets by one point in their home opener.

The day started with the Otago Nuggets unveiling their 2020 and 2022 championship banners and presenting the side with championship rings as they aimed to get their championship defence off to a good start.

After opening the game strong and finishing the first quarter up 11 points, the Nuggets allowed the Jets to get back into the game in the second and neither team were able to create a substantial gap for the rest of the game.

With the score at 64 a piece with three minutes remaining, two unanswered buckets from imports Michael Harris and JaQuori McLaughlin proved the difference.

Danny Pippen II was almost unstoppable for the visitors, with 29 points and unlimited range.

Forward Todd Withers had 17 points, including one three and was important defensively in a low scoring affair.

Big man Sam Timmins was a monster on the boards, with 11 rebounds including 7 offensive to go along with his 17 points.

Imports Michael Harris with 12 points and JaQuori McLaughlin with 15 points both contributed well in their Nuggets debut.

Player Focus

Todd Withers was a force on both ends of the court, scoring 17 points to go along with two steals and some clutch defense on Pippen II late in the fourth.

Next Game

Otago Nuggets are back at Edgar Centre this upcoming Sunday, taking on the Southland Sharks at 6.00pm.