The IMS Payroll Hawks continued their strong start to the season with a 72-61 win over the Advice First Pistons in Hamilton.

It was another low scoring affair at Hamilton Boys High School, but the Hawks saved their best quarter for last, outscoring the
homeside 27-16.

Forward Dustin Scott was the best player on the floor, posting 27 points and 16 rebounds. Scott did it both on the inside and outside, converting on 4/5 from the three point line.

Waikato were in the contest for the majority of the game, but they committed 21 turnovers compared to the Hawks 12.

The Piston’s size kept them in the game, and they got a valuable contribution off the bench from Jack Salt, who had 14 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks.

Akeem Wright and Casey Frank each posted double-doubles, and Corin Henry had 10 assists and five steals, but shot 2/10 for six points.

Waikato led after the first half and by as many as five in third, but an 11-5 run by the Hawks tied the scores at the end of the fourth.

Four straight points from Salt gave the Pistons a one point early part in the fourth, but Scott would hit two straight three’s to give back the lead to the Hawks, who would hold the lead for the remainder of the contest.

Hawks move to 7-2 ahead of the Fico Finance Nelson Giants (6-2) and the Pacific Jewellers Saints (6-2).

Pistons (3-3) will host the Breakers Manawatu Jets (2-4) next Sunday.

Sunday, May 4

At Hamilton Boys High School, Hamilton

Advice First Waikato Pistons 61 (Jack Salt 14, Zac Carter 12, Akeem Wright 12) IMS Payroll Hawks 72 (Dustin Scott 27, Everard Bartlett 14, Jarrod Kenny 10, Marco Alexander 10), Final