Basketball: Portland blaze their way to Classic semifinal spot

Jaimee-Lee Tito

Portland's Jaimee-lee Tito has helped book her side a TTT Classic semifinal match up on Friday, thanks to a game high 22 points against Takahiwai.

Tito was in fine form at Kamo High School as her team led at the end of every quarter, combining well with Jeannie Cameron.

Cameron and Trina Henare were the next highest point scorers for Portland on Saturday, scoring seven, as Portland confirmed their place in the play-offs with a 51-44 scoreline.

For Phoenix Takahiwai, the Sue Reed-Thomas and Zhane Shortland combination competed well against Portland.

In the other Te Tai Tokerau Classic match, Muriwhenua forfeited to Whangaruru Tukaiaia.

Meanwhile, Ruel Gare couldn't halt the City Hawks from winning 95-73, despite landing 28 points for Maunu in the Jennian Homes Super Basketball League.

Gare combined with Jamie Manson [21] and James Martinac [20] as the trio combined to nail 69 of the side's total.

For Maunu, Herb Smith top scored with 24 and was given able-support by Kurtis Tito who picked up 21 points.

In the Bloodlines Whangaruru and Far North Thunder match up, Whangaruru had a slow start but managed to apply defensive pressure after halftime to create turnovers and eventually take the game 80-64.

Top scorers for the victors were Tevin Henare [16], John Sadler [14] and LJ Hetaraka-Sadler [11]. For the Far North Thunder, Arahi O'Donnell [25], PC Christensen [16] and Nigel McKee [11] were the top scoring trio.

In the final SBL match-up, Portland Blazers' sharp shooter Ethan Penney showed he was in good form as he scored a massive 38 points in their 76-62 win against Raumanga.

In what was a physical game between two determined teams, Penney slotted shot after shot to make sure of his side's semi-final appearance.

Portland captain Harlyn Clunie played well for Portland, making eight blocks during the game.

For Raumanga, Klay Rouse was top scorer with 22, helped out by Rob Farrier, who scored 14.