SAINTS defended the Suva/Laucala Basketball League title despite a tough challenge from Warriors in the final on Tuesday night at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

The Marques Whippy-led Saints team overpowered a spirited Warriors 42-21 to maintain its unbeaten run in the competition.

The side also had the services of Raymond Whippy, Sikivou brothers Jese and Tui alongside youngster Mataika Koyamainavure.

Warriors, formerly of Raiwaqa, had players like Frank Saketa, Sakiusa Rokodi, Isikeli Mara and Josh Motufaga.

Suva/Laucala Basketball Association official Leonard Whippy said a good start from Saints gave them the victory.

He added the inclusion of Marques who flew into the country last week was a big boost for the side.

"Saints started the game with a 14-0 run which Warriors weren't able to recover from," Leonard said.

"The Warriors improved as the game progressed but the initial score margin proved to be too much to overcome," Leonard said

Pitbulls II defeated Jats 17-16 to win the C-grade while Chances defeated Noobies 41-40 to scoop the B-grade title.

"Pitbulls II just managed to hold off a very spirited performance from Jats which is a new team that just joined us this season," Leonard said.

"In the B-Grade, Chances came back from being down early in the game to edge out Noobies for a place in the final against top seeds Pitbulls I."

In the 3rd and 4th playoff, New Era defeated Idaman 41-40.

"New Era were able tocapitalise on a few turnovers by Idaman late in the game to give them the win," Leonard said.

"Idaman had the opportunity at the end of the game to win it but missed their final shot."

Results - C-grade playoff for 3th and 4th - Saints II 32 New Era II 20, C-grade final - Pitbulls II 17 Jats 16, Playoff for 3rd & 4th - New Era 41 Idaman 40, B-grade semis - Noobies 40 Chances 41, A-grade - Saints 42 Warriors 21, (B-grade semi-final).

Easter Championship qualifiers - Saints, Warriors, New Era, Idaman, Chances, Outcydaz

Source: Fiji Times