In what is being described as an exhilarating fifth home game of the season, the Tauranga Whai secured a nail-biting victory over the Otago Nuggets.

The home team won by a single point in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer on Wednesday night.

The game, which ended with a score of Whai 70 - Nuggets 69, marks a pivotal moment in the season as Whai aims to climb the National Basketball League ladder from their current 7th place position into the top 6 to qualify for the NBL Finals Play Off in July.

Entering the game as underdogs, Whai was assigned only a five per cent chance of winning against the formidable Otago Nuggets.

The absence of Vance Jackson Junior, who was released last week, added to the uncertainty.

However, Whai’s team demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, showing increased offensive speed and fluid ball movement that surprised both fans and critics.

Leading by three points at halftime, Whai maintained their momentum in a game that swung dramatically back and forth, ultimately clinching the victory, and proving their resilience and strategic prowess of Head Coach, Matt Lacey.

This victory is not just about advancing in the rankings; it's a testament to Whai’s commitment to enhancing the local community through sports.

Recognising the absence of a national basketball presence in Tauranga, Whai Basketball Club was established to nurture a fervent fanbase and to serve as a beacon of inspiration for local youth.

By turning aspirations into achievements, the club strives to instil a sense of possibility and ambition among young minds.

"As a community, we understand the transformative power of sports. It’s more than just a game; it’s a catalyst for fostering camaraderie, igniting passion, and nurturing a sense of belonging irrespective of our origins," says Whai Basketball Club co-foudner John Miller.

"With our Men's National Basketball League team, we aspire to not only elevate Tauranga's sporting landscape but also cultivate a legacy of unity and inspiration for generations to come."