The Bulls, with a 4-2 record, will look to bounce back after a tough road loss to the Wellington Saints, while the Rams, sitting at the top of the table with a 4-1 record, will be looking to get their fifth win in a row.
A victory for the Bulls would create a six-way tie at the top of the league standings, adding plenty of drama to an already intense season. However, the Rams have been in exceptional form this season and will stand in their way. Their defence has been formidable this season, ranking third overall, and their offence has been equally potent, averaging 93.2 points per game.
Taylor Britt, the Rams’ star point guard has been outstanding, averaging 9.6 points and 6.2 assists per game. He will be a player to keep an eye on, particularly in his match up against the Bulls’ Flynn Cameron, whose physicality and experience in the Australian NBL could potentially cause problems for Britt.
Rumours surrounding the potential return of NBL veteran Ethan Rusbatch could provide a crucial boost for the Bulls in the absence of Reuben Te Rangi. Alongside Rusbatch, the Bulls will look to key players like Tobias Cameron, and Tae Hardy (the current league MVP leader).
In their previous game, the Bulls suffered a tough 78-69 defeat to the Wellington Saints in the capital. Despite an impressive late rally where they scored 22 consecutive points, the Bulls were unable to recover from a 27-point deficit in the fourth quarter.
The Rams, on the other hand, continued their dominance in an 87-71 victory over the Taranaki Airs.
A major talking point for the Rams heading into tonight’s game is the debut of their new signing, American forward CJ Penha. Standing at 6’7”, Penha joins the Rams after a successful stint in Sweden. Penha adds depth to an already loaded Rams roster, giving them another versatile weapon on both ends of the floor.
As the Bulls look to turn things around at home and the Rams aim to maintain their spot at the top of the ladder, tonight’s game promises to be a thrilling contest.
