The Southland Sharks secured their first National Basketball League (NBL) title with a dramatic overtime victory over the Wellington Saints, delivering a storybook finish to their season. The final was played at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland, where the Sharks overcame a late Saints rally to claim the championship.
The match was tightly contested throughout, with both teams trading baskets in the final minutes. The Sharks, led by their star player Jordan Thompson, took the lead in the final seconds of regulation. The Saints responded with a late surge, forcing the game into overtime. In the extra period, the Sharks showed resilience, with key contributions from their bench.
Thompson was named the game’s most valuable player, scoring 28 points in the win. The victory marks a historic moment for the Southland Sharks, who have long been considered underdogs in the league. The win also highlights the growing competitiveness of the NBL, with the Saints finishing as runners-up. (thepress.co.nz)
