Giants slide to third straight loss

The introduction of two imports can’t come soon enough, as the NBS Nelson Giants slumped to the third loss to start their season.

In front of the 20th sold-out crowd in a row at Trafalgar Centre, the home team came out second best against the Wellington Saints 84-75.

Daniel Grida had another strong game with a 27-point and 11-rebound double-double, alongside a 20-point and 10-rebound Daniel Fotu double-double.

But it wasn’t enough, as their fellow starters added 19 points, with another nine coming from the bench.

With more than twice as many turnovers than the Saints (24-10) and 25 fewer shot attempts (58-83), the team struggled to generate strong offence.

But when they did, it was a direct attack as the Giants went to the line for 30 free throws and made 24 of them.

And there were moments when they had control, winning the first and third quarters but letting it slip to end both halves.

They also did a good job of defence, keeping the Saints from having any stand-out performers as the visitors had to share the load.

The Giants season continues as they host the Auckland Tuatara next Friday.