Basketball: Hawks qualify for NBL playoffs

Having secured their place in the top four, the Hawks have their sights set on winning the round robin of the National Basketball League (NBL).

American Dusty Rychart was on form with 30 points to help the Hawks to a 90-74 road victory over Taranaki Mountain Airs last night - and the last available spot in the 2005 NBL semifinals.

Australian Derek Moore scored 22 points and veteran Willie Burton contributed 11.

The win takes the Hawke's Bay side's season record to 11 and 5.

They join defending champions Auckland Stars, the Nelson Giants and the Waikato Titans in the playoffs. They also have a good chance of of claiming the regular season title, provided they can win their remaining two games.

The Hawks have road trips to play the Wellington Saints and the Nelson Giants at the weekend.

Wins in both those matches could see the Hawks pip the Auckland Stars for top spot.

- NEWSTALK ZB, HERALD ONLINE STAFF