NS Matrix Deers have laid down an early marker in the Major Basketball League (MBL), sweeping their opening three matches in Seremban, including an impressive 91-80 victory over defending champions Johor Southern Tigers.
The hosts capped their unbeaten start at Karisma Arena with a decisive 16-2 fourth-quarter run against Johor, turning a 72-72 deadlock into an 88-74 advantage before sealing the win.
Matrix Deers had earlier defeated newcomers Selangor Hornbills 85-71 before edging another debutant, KL Titans, 91-89 in a closely fought encounter.
The action now shifts to the Exhibition Hall at Hextar World @ Empire City in Damansara this weekend, with KL Titans looking to make home advantage count and avenge their narrow defeat to Matrix on Saturday.
The Titans, who bounced back to beat last season’s runners-up Penang Sunrise Youngsters 98-95, will be aiming to build on their opening victory.
Johor Tigers, meanwhile, also recorded a 96-72 win over Youngsters, leaving both the defending champions and KL Titans with identical 1-1 records.
KL Titans coach Guganeswaran admitted his side were still finding their rhythm, particularly in attack and defence, with several areas requiring improvement.
“Our foreign players still need time to adapt to the way games are officiated locally, while our local players must improve their communication with the imports, especially in defence,” he said.
Guganeswaran believes his team have yet to reach their full potential but is targeting a clean sweep of three victories despite the demanding home schedule.
The KL Titans open their campaign against Selangor Hornbills tomorrow at 8pm before facing NS Matrix Deers on Saturday (8pm) and Johor Tigers on Sunday (8pm).
Saturday’s earlier match will see Hornbills take on Youngsters at 6pm, while Sunday’s action begins with Youngsters facing Matrix Deers at 6pm.
With the regular season comprising just 30 matches across six rounds, every victory could prove crucial in the race for the four playoff spots.
