The inaugural Trans Tasman Challenge between the NZ NBL Champions and the Australian Basketball Association Champions was a highly competitive contest throughout and dubbed a huge success by both clubs.

Hawkes Bay jumped out of the blocks in the first quarter and held onto a comfortable lead through most of the first half. However, the Supercats rallied late in the second quarter to go in to the half time break only two points down with the game poised at 41 to 43.

The Hawks maintained a tight defence that restricted the Supercats and the visitors struggled to find ways to score. The Supercats turned the ball over 21 times to 10 and this presented the Hawks with too many scoring opportunities. Jamal Brown was best for the Supercats, top scoring with 26 points and 10 rebounds, while Nathan Herbert had 14 points and Jason Reardon 13.

The Hawks top scorer, Paora Winatana, shot 22points and he was assisted by Thomas Bartletts with 15 and Callum Baynes with13. The Supercats were without import Shawn Myers and Braith Cox and the lack of depth was exposed as the game wore on.

Supercats head coach Mark Leader was philosophical about the result. "It was a great experience and a tough match. We played ok in patches, but couldn't maintain our effort for the whole game. It is a great initiative that hopefully can continue into the future. I would like to thank Hawkes Bay for their hospitality and generosity in hosting the game" Leader said after the game.

The Supercats now look ahead to this Saturday night when they take on Kilsyth in their final practice match at the Arena. Tip off is at 7pm with a free kids clinic and sausage sizzle at 5:30pm. The first SEABL game of the season will be played at the Arena when the Supercats take on the new Queensland team, Southern Districts, on Friday 2nd March. Memberships and general admission ticket information is available on 5277 1711.