Otago Boys' High School Old Boys (7-7) is assured of a spot in the men's A grade playoffs after beating a gutsy University Blue side 81-72 on Saturday.
The students (5-9) entered the weekend one win behind Otago Boys' and needed a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive, but were beaten by a side starting to find form.
For Otago Boys', Ethan Carruthers made his return from injury and provided a spark instantly, as his mid-range jumper became unstoppable.
Carruthers had 16 points in his side's victory, while guard Alexander-John Auld-Beverley continued his form from last week to lead his side with 18 points.
University put up a strong fight, as it tried to keep its season alive, and desperately fired shots as the clock counted down, trying to snatch a win.
Campbell Arnott was the key player for University, and scored a team-high 21 points in a gutsy effort.
Earlier, the Magic (9-5) proved too strong for a red-hot Falcons side (11-3), playing its best game of the season to win 85-75.
The game became a battle between the Magic's Riki Buckrell and the Falcons' Sam King, as the two hit form for their sides in an entertaining fixture.
However, while the Falcons had been the form team of the competition, the Magic was never going to be denied, with some physical and well-executed basketball.
Buckrell paced his team with 25 points to show the competition is not going to be a one-horse race.
In the other game, the Saints (8-6) proved too strong for the Bombers (2-12), winning 92-78.
Damon Cleverley scored 27 points for the Saints.
By John McKenzie.
