Robinhood Stars tamed by Tactix in season opener

The Robinhood Stars have fought hard to the very end before going down 55-49 to the Trident Homes Tactix in their ANZ Premiership opener in Auckland.

Both teams produced an energetic opening quarter, testing the respective opposition defence with some swift ball movement.

The Tactix won some important turnover ball midway through the period, before converting to open up a four goal lead, before the Stars rallied well to close the gap to 14-12 after the first quarter.

Gina Crampton and Maia Wilson resumed their strong connection from previous seasons, linking up on multiple occasions, before Wilson finished near the hoop.

Loose turnovers in the second quarter proved costly, with the Stars allowing the Tactix to continue to build on their lead, as they suddenly were ahead by nine.

The Stars showcased their cliche grit late in the quarter, with defender Elle Temu breathing life back into the fight with an intercept that sparked a run and saw the gap closed to six goals at half-time, as the Tactix led 29-23.

The teams traded blows in a tense third quarter where neither team gained further ascendancy, but the Tactix kept the Stars at arms length throughout.

The Stars pulled off five intercepts in the third quarter, with Temu remaining a nuisance, but they couldn't eat into the Tactix lead and went into the final quarter down 55-49.

The Stars produced a strong finish, as the tried valiantly to break into the deficit and were rewarded with turnovers after constant pressure.

Unfortunately, more turnovers crept in as the Stars looked to up the ante late, which allowed the Tactix to keep their healthy lead and take the victory.

Maia Wilson was a rock in the shooting circle - showing strength under the hoop and finishing the match with a 97 percent record, as she nailed 36 of her 37 attempts at goal.

Elle Temu was at her disruptive best throughout - working tirelessly and reeling in three intercepts at important moments.

There were three players who made their Stars debuts, with Kelera Nawai-Caucau, Samon Nathan and Lisa Putt taking the court.

The Stars next travel to Tauranga to face the Avis Magic on Saturday.