McGovern led all scorers with 34 points, including five of 12 three-pointers, and added 13 rebounds and 10 assists as the Hunters humbled the three-time defending WABL champions for the second time this year.

Newcastle had lost 10 straight games since upsetting the Sharks 82-69 at Sutherland in their only other triumph this season.

The scores were locked at 76-76 after three quarters but, in the presence of many of their former players among the crowd of about 500, the Hunters ensured their annual reunion night was one to celebrate by outscoring the Sharks 34-18 down the stretch.

Mat Cook (24 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists) was not far behind former Pirates teammate McGovern, and rookies Matthew Mujic (15 points), Adoc Makwai (14 points in his WABL debut) and Akolde Mayom (13 rebounds, six points) gave great support.

The Hunters women improved their win-loss record to 7-7 and remained in the hunt for the WABL finals with a comfortable 75-53 victory over the Sharks (2-11).

Led by Dimity Stewart (16 points, 10 rebounds) and Katie Ebzery (16 points, seven assists, six rebounds, four steals), Newcastle were always in control.

The Hunters kept their State League women's finals hopes alive with a 59-57 victory over Dubbo, the Youth League women stopped Sutherland 66-49.