NATIONAL basketball development officer Laisiasa Puamau led Shaq Ataq to their second win at the Post Shop Easter National Champion-ships at the International Secondary School courts.

The courts were a buzz with activity as eight Suva teams raced for the win.

The night started off with Shaq Ataq defeating the Raiwaqa Bulldogs 22-12 after a very tough match.

Both teams were going head-to-head until the Bulldogs finally foiled under pressure after Shaq changed their approach man-to-man defence, eliminating any chances for the Bulldogs in the final quarter.

Shaq is promised to be a high contender for the Saturday finals.

However, the top scorer for the match went to the Viliame Vacala of the Bulldogs.

In the second game Idaman beat Knicks 29-16.

The young Knicks team, led by Jona Vakalutukali, consisted mainly of high school students who almost ruled the game.

Idaman showed its strengths and experience on the court to win.

Sefton Hull of the Knicks showed an outstanding performance last night after shooting many balls one after another, leaving Idaman in a state of confusion.

Hull is a seventh former at Yat Sen Secondary School.

The third game saw Macpacers defeat Nukuwatu 37-12.

In the last match, Bryceland pulled through defeating Pitbulls 26-24.

Bryce goes on to meet defending champions the Vikings on Friday at the Vodafone Arena.

Results: Shaq Ataq 22-Bulldogs 12, Idaman 29-Knicks 16, Macpacers 37-Nukuwatu 12, Bryceland 26-Pitbull 24.

The Fiji Times Online

Thursday, April 09, 2009

By Francis Whippy