The Wellington Saints are through to the NZNBL semi-finals after defeating the Otago Nuggets 94-81 in their elimination final.
The Saints overcame a competitive start from Otago before taking control through strong team play, defensive pressure and consistent scoring at Te Rauparaha Arena.
Wellington executed well at both ends of the court and remained composed late in the game to seal the victory and extend their title defence.
Elijah Pepper produced a game-high 33 points, along with five rebounds and four assists.
Carlin Davison finished with 17 points and 12 assists, while Akech Aliir contributed 12 points, six rebounds, four steals and three blocks.
For Otago, Buay Tuach recorded 22 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. Ethan Rusbatch added 18 points and eight rebounds, while Matthew Bardsley scored 12 points.
The fourth-seeded Saints entered the playoffs with a 15-5 regular-season record and have now won eight of their past nine games.
They will face top-seeded Auckland Tuatara away in the semi-finals.
