THREE POINTER:

• Lachlan Olbrich leads Canterbury Rams to the NZNBL Grand Finals.
• Reuben Te Rangi’s standout performance propels Auckland Tuatara.
• Both teams edge out tough competition in nail-biting semi-finals.

The stage is set for an electrifying NZNBL Grand Finals as the Canterbury Rams, led by the league’s MVP Lachlan Olbrich, prepare to face off against Reuben Te Rangi and the Auckland Tuatara. Here’s how both teams punched their tickets to the big game.

Rams’ Road to the Finals

Lachlan Olbrich has been nothing short of spectacular for the Rams this season, bagging not only the MVP but also the Youth Player of the Year and Most Outstanding Forward awards. In their semi-final clash, Olbrich dominated with 22 points and 16 rebounds, leading his team to a thrilling one-point victory over the Taranaki Airs. Teammates Max Darling and Walter Brown were pivotal, contributing 20 and 17 points respectively.

> “Olbrich’s performance this season has been a masterclass in basketball excellence,” noted one analyst.

Tuatara’s Triumph

Meanwhile, the Auckland Tuatara secured their finals berth with a hard-fought win against the Franklin Blues, thanks to Reuben Te Rangi’s 17 points and Rob Loe’s 20-point effort. The game was a tight affair, ending 78-75 in favor of Auckland. Cam Gliddon also played a crucial role, pulling down five rebounds and setting up plays with his tactical astuteness.

Notable Performances

The semi-finals saw some impressive stats from players on the losing teams as well. Flynn Cameron of the Taranaki Airs went out with a bang in his final NZNBL game, scoring 25 points. For the Franklin Blues, Sam Timmins put up a valiant 30 points and grabbed eight rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win.

Looking Ahead

As the Rams and the Tuatara gear up for what promises to be a blockbuster final, all eyes will be on key players like Olbrich and Te Rangi. Can Olbrich cap his award-winning season with a championship? Or will Te Rangi’s leadership and skill lead the Tuatara to glory?

Stay tuned as we bring you all the action from what is set to be a gripping conclusion to the NZNBL season.

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