
Southland Sharks’ Josh Turner (right) keeps Otago Nuggets’ Zaccheus Darko-Kelly at bay. PHOTOS: SIMON HENDERSON
The Otago Nuggets took on the Southland Sharks at the Edgar Centre during a nail-biting game where both teams each had the upper hand for a time.

Otago Nuggets’ Kimani Lawrence (centre) gets past Southland Sharks’ Callum McRae (left) to score.
But by halftime it seemed there was a home advantage as the Nuggets led 46-38.

Otago Nuggets’ Jack Andrew (left) looks on as Nuggets point guard Darcy Knox angles past Turner.
The match reached fever pitch when Nuggets forward Matt Bardsley scored, tying the game at 76-76 with a mere five seconds remaining.
This led to a wildly exciting game in overtime, the Sharks close to clinching the win, leading by 5 points with just 90 seconds left.

Southland Sharks’ Josh Turner (right) keeps Otago Nuggets’ Zaccheus Darko-Kelly at bay.
The Nuggets’ tenacity and strategic execution, especially in overtime, solidified their triumph, laying a strong foundation for their season ahead.