Joseph Nunag regained his touch in Franklin’s 82-73 bounce back win against Southland in the 2021 Sal’s NZ-NBL Season, Friday afternoon at Franklin Pool and Leisure Centre.
Nunag saw himself limited to just nine points in their 94-107 loss to Nelson six days ago. This time, he dropped 17 points on 6-of-10 shooting from the field, 4-of-8 from downtown. He also had three assists, two steals, and a block to lead the Bulls’ bench.
It was Nunag’s spark that provided Franklin’s late breakaway against the Sharks.
Down by three, 53-56, heading into the final frame, the Bulls went on a 7-2 blast capped by a Nunag lay-in to regain the lead.
Zane Waterman and Nunag then scored 16 of the last 17 points of Franklin to go up to 3-2 in the standings.
Waterman was unstoppable in the game, finishing with 31 points on 10-of-13 shooting with nine boards.
Josh Selby, who was averaging 30.8 points prior to this game, was limited to just seven points on 1-of-8 shooting. He still tallied six rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Jaylen Gerrand added 12 points.
Dominique Kelman-Poto paced Southland with 25 points and 15 rebounds. Meanwhile, Joshua Cunningham chipped in 15 points and 12 boards.
The Sharks dropped to 2-3, suffering their third straight loss.
Up next for Nunag and Franklin are Ken Tuffin and Wellington on May 20.
