Mystics Men Survive Two-Point Masterclass in Narrow Win Over the Stars

Despite a super shot masterclass from the Stars Men, the Mystics Men have a 1-0 lead in their annual series.

The Mystics Men came out firing in the first match of the series, winning the opening game 51-47.

Competing for the Te Taonga Manu Taki trophy, this is the fourth year the two teams have met, with the Mystics Men winning the series 3-0 last year.

The 2024 New Zealand men’s player of the year, Mikaira Raerino started for the Mystics at goal shoot, and made an impact early with his trademark lay-up shots.

His connection with goal attack Te Reiwhati Vercoe was instrumental for the men in blue, as the Mystics shot out to a strong start, leading the Stars 16-9.

But with the Summerset Super Shot available in the last five minutes of every quarter, it didn’t take long for the Stars to fight back.

Stan Smith sank three two-pointers in the first quarter to close the margin, with the gap being just three at quarter time.

The Mystics finished the game with just three successful super shots, scoring 45 goals under the hoop. In contrast, the Stars only scored 27 one-point shots, relying on the two-pointers to catch up.

The second and third quarters were even, as both teams found their flow. It was a physical encounter, the men showing their strength, athletic style of play and accuracy under the hoop.

The Mystics continued to put pressure on the Stars midcourt throughout the match, with many cross-court passes not finding their mark, and held ball calls.

Oceon Grady was a standout for the Mystics defence, his long arms disrupting the Stars’ flow on attack. A late contact call in the fourth quarter saw him suspended for two minutes, but Grady was otherwise tidy and efficient.