BASKETBALL
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THE Moss Vale Magic was rewarded for an all-round performance on Saturday night.
The Moss Vale men's youth league side was solid in both defence and attack as it secured a 92-83 win over the Sydney City Comets.
The Magic won all four quarters to stamp its authority in front of a big crowd at the Moss Vale Basketball Stadium.
The result means the Magic has wrapped up second spot on the ladder with 13 wins for the regular season.
The Highlanders will now enjoy a week's break before returning to the court for a semi-final on August 1.
Both teams started the game well and the Magic held a 21-19 advantage at quarter time.
The score was again even in the second quarter but Moss Vale held on to a 39-36 lead at half time.
After the break, the Magic and Comets continued to engage in a tight battle.
Moss Vale scored 21 points to 18 in the third quarter to take a 60-54 lead into the final break.
The Magic won the last quarter by 32 points to 29 to secure the 92-83 result.
However, the finish was a lot tighter than the scoreboard indicated.
Moss Vale held an 86-83 lead with around 40 seconds remaining before big man Tyler Payne sunk a three-pointer.
The home side then scored another late basket to close out the win.
The Magic was well led by Billy Campbell, who scored 21 points and was named most valuable player.
Dane Jensen also scored 21 points and support was provided by Payne (17) and Nick Bizjak (16).
Among the best players on court was Isaac Martin.
Martin was assigned to play against Comets star Hamish McGregor in the second half.
McGregor had scored 16 points in the opening two quarters and threatened to take the game away from Moss Vale.
Hayden Cook marked McGregor early in the third quarter before Martin took over the role, restricting his opponent to just two points.
Moss Vale coach Kev Campbell said it was a satisfying win on Saturday night.
"The Comets are a well-drilled team and they will be in the mix in the finals," he said.
"It was a good win in front of a really good crowd."