Saints Dominate Whai to Lock in Home Semi-Final

The Mills Albert Wellington Saints have stamped their authority on the 2025 Sal’s NBL season, securing a crucial 103–77 win over the Northern Group Tauranga Whai on Saturday night at TSB Arena. The emphatic victory guarantees the Saints a home semi-final, much to the delight of the electric home crowd.

From the opening tip, the Saints came out with intensity and intent, fuelled by a powerful haka from Hato Paora College that set the tone for a night of pride, performance, and purpose.

Jordan Ngatai led the charge with a commanding 27-point performance, knocking down shots from all over the floor and igniting the crowd with his energy. Big man Nick Muszynski added 15 points and 6 rebounds, providing a strong presence in the paint on both ends of the floor.

The Whai, who had upset the Saints earlier in the season, couldn’t replicate that form despite strong efforts from Anzac Rissetto (24 points, 7 rebounds) and Mojave King (16 points, 5 assists).

Halftime saw the crowd treated to a standout performance by Society Entertainment and Taipuhi King, keeping the energy high and the atmosphere buzzing.

With the win, the Saints not only exacted revenge for their earlier loss to the Whai but also sent a clear message to the rest of the league—they’re peaking at the right time and ready for a championship run.

All eyes now turn to the upcoming playoffs, where the Saints will enjoy the home-court advantage for their semi-final clash—an edge they’ve earned with grit, teamwork, and the backing of the capital’s passionate basketball community.

Postgame Reminder: The special one-off Courts in Schools jerseys worn during the game are now live on Trade Me, with all proceeds going toward building more basketball courts across Wellington. Fans can also bid on a 1-on-1 training session with Head Coach Aaron Young, a lunch with Saints players, a corporate box for a 2026 game, and game-worn shoes from Izayah Le’Afa.

Bid here

It was a night of giving, winning, and community pride—everything the Saints stand for.