Basketball: Marks' NBA minutes on the up

It may only be two weeks into the NBA season but New Zealander Sean Marks has already played more minutes than last season.

Marks played 16 minutes in the Phoenix Suns' 115-83 win over the Charlotte Bobcats, shooting five from seven from the field to rack up 13 points and even had a dunk which featured on the ESPN television highlights footage.

It was Marks' first game this season and while he was thrilled to get some meaningful game time, he says it is unlikely he will get those sort of minutes all the time.

However, Marks is hoping to make more strong contributions after getting twice as many minutes as bench rival Brian Skinner.

Marks had the chance because All-Star Amare Stoudemire missed the game with a knee complaint.

Marks only made three appearances for the Suns last season.

- NEWSTALK ZB