Saints power past Jets as Pepper pours in 45
The Mills Albert Wellington Saints continued their strong form on the road with an impressive 105-84 victory over the Property Brokers Manawatū Jets.
The Saints exploded out of the blocks, moving the ball efficiently and racing to a 10-0 lead in the opening minutes. Manawatū refused to go away, responding with a run of their own to cut the deficit before eventually turning the game around. Despite trailing by double digits early, the Jets finished the first quarter strongly and took a five-point lead into the first break.
The second quarter belonged to Wellington.
League-leading scorer Elijah Pepper caught fire offensively, scoring 15 points in the period as the Saints regained control of the contest. Strong contributions from across the roster proved equally important, with Carlin Davison providing energy and playmaking off the bench while Jordan Hunt delivered on both ends of the floor. Wellington outscored the Jets 35-23 in the quarter to head into halftime with the advantage.
Pepper continued his offensive masterclass after the break. The American guard proved unstoppable, knocking down shots from all areas of the court and finishing with a remarkable 45-point performance, including seven three-pointers. Every time the Jets threatened to close the gap, Pepper had an answer as the Saints maintained control throughout the second half.
Akech Aliir provided valuable support with 20 points and eight rebounds, while Hunt recorded a double-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
For the Jets, Tai Webster and Jamal Poplar Jr each scored 19 points, while Kaden Sand added 14 points.
The victory moves the Saints forward with another important result as they continue their push through the Sal's NBL season.
Leading Performers
Wellington Saints:
• Elijah Pepper – 45 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
• Akech Aliir – 20 points, 8 rebounds
• Jordan Hunt – 16 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists
Manawatū Jets:
• Tai Webster – 19 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals
• Jamal Poplar Jr – 19 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals
• Kaden Sand – 14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
Rapid League: Saints dominate Jets
The Mills Albert Pathways Wellington Saints produced a commanding defensive performance to defeat the Cook Street Manawatū Jets 34-12 in Rapid League action.
Wellington controlled the game from the opening tip, holding the Jets scoreless until just 1:20 remained in the second quarter. The Saints' defensive intensity set the tone throughout the contest, limiting Manawatū's opportunities while steadily building their own lead.
At halftime, Aubrey Chunga had scored more points than the entire Jets team, highlighting Wellington's dominance on both ends of the floor.
The Saints never looked back in the second half, extending their advantage and comfortably closing out the victory.
Chunga led the way with 11 points and five rebounds, while Arthur Pilcher added eight points and two rebounds.
Leading Performers
Wellington Saints:
• Aubrey Chunga – 11 points, 5 rebounds
• Arthur Pilcher – 8 points, 2 rebounds
Manawatū Jets:
• Hamza Zahran – 5 points, 4 rebounds
• Lukah Richards – 6 rebounds, 4 blocks
