ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai (70) lost to ANZCO Tokomanawa Queens (75)
The ANZCO Tokomanawa Queens are through to a third successive G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi grand final after a stunning semi-final comeback in Christchurch where they stormed home from 16 points down to eclipse the ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai 75.70.
The Queens looked destined to miss the opportunity to play for a second Tauihi championship after trailing by 16 pints with just nine minutes to play, but a barnstorming effort down the stretch saw them accomplish a 26-9 last quarter to take a thrilling victory and send the top-seeded Pouākai packing.
The winner of SF2 between the Kāhu and Whai will host the Queens in the 2024 decider on Sunday December 22.
Top Players:
Pouākai - Cassandra Brown 24pts, 12rbs, 2 triples - McKenzie Forbes 19pts, 3rbs, 5ast, 3 triples - Haleigh Reinoehl 14pts, 8rbs, 3blks - Mikhaela Cann 6pts, 4rbs, 7ast
Queens - Lou Brown 10pts, 16rbs (12 offensive), 2ast, 1stl - Florencia Chagas 20pts, 4rbs, 2ast, 3stl, 3 triples - Jihyun Park 18pts, 2rbs, 4ast, 5stl - Stella Beck 13pts, 11rbs, 2astt, 3stl - Jordan Horston 8pts, 7tbs, 9ast
