It was a performance notable for the debut of former ANBL guard Kavossy Franklin, the former Hawks star contributed 20 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds in an impressive showing with just two practice sessions under his belt.

Indeed it was largely due to the experience and on court direction of Franklin that the Heat shot out to a commanding ten point lead at the end of the first quarter with Franklin immediately included in the starting five, despite his arrival on Thursday.

With Corey Webster lighting it up outside (3/4 at halftime) and Rick Rickert and BJ Anthony dominating the boards, the Sharks were caught in a rip they wouldn’t escape from and trailed 57 – 34 at the break.

The only consolation for Sharks Coach Richard Dickel would have been the heart shown by his side in the second half. Led by import Mike Rose (21 points) and Captain James Paringatai (20 points), the Sharks never gave up the fight and at one point closed to 12 points in the final quarter.

But the Heat switched back on and reeled in their catch, extending in the final few minutes with the bench getting valuable court time as Coach Judd Flavell took the chance to rest his starters.

Flavell was pleased with another win and impressed with the start for Franklin.

“Kavossy showed his class and experience today, despite limited time with the boys he gave us good direction and took good options. He gives us another scoring option inside and out and will make it difficult for teams to shut us down offensively.

“But as with our first up win last week, there is plenty to work on during the week. With all due respect to the Sharks but the Saints on Friday is another step up and frankly we have to improve in all aspects. There is a good chemistry and some real talent in this team but work to do to bring it all together.”

The clash with the Saints is a greatly anticipated one on Friday night as two of the teams talked up as play off contenders clash. It will also pit former Tall Black team mates Judd Flavell and Pero Cameron against each other for the first time in their new roles as coaches.

Harbour Heat  96

Rick Rickert 24 points, 11 rebounds; Kavossy Franklin 20 points, 4 assists; Corey Webster 17 points.

Southland Sharks 82

Mike Rose 21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists; James Paringatai 20 points, 4 rebounds; Gareth Dawson 16 points.

Box Score online at www.basketball.org.nz

Next home game:

Bartercard National Basketball League

Harbour Heat v Wellington Saints

North Shore Events Centre

Friday 19^th March

7pm tip off