Jose Perez also made significant contributions to the Nuggets’ win, showcasing his versatility with 20 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists. Todd Withers’ subtle yet impactful plays added depth to the team’s performance, tallying 16 points and five rebounds.
Darnell Cowart stood out for the Hawks with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Cliffton Bush III recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Ball and Campbell Scott were threats from beyond the arc, each scoring 19 points.
The Nuggets started strong, with Carey’s sharpshooting and Withers’ three-pointers helping them build a lead. Despite a comeback attempt from the Hawks, the Nuggets maintained their composure and secured the win with clutch plays from Carey and Withers down the stretch.
In the Rapid League game, the Nuggets outscored the Hawks 38-23. Meanwhile, in the NBL match, the Wellington Saints defeated the Nelson Giants 94-86.
NBL
The scores
– Otago Nuggets 93 (Don Carey jun 34, Jose Perez 20)
– Hawke’s Bay Hawks 86 (Darnell Cowart 24, Jackson Ball 19, Campbell Scott 19)
Quarter scores: 34-21, 49-47, 73-64
