The Hunters took the early advantage, taking the lead by nine points in the second quarter.

But the second half was a different story, with the Wildcats taking control with a 35-15 quarter.

Despite trailing by 27 points with a little over five minutes to play in the game, the Hunters showed what they are made of and finished the game with an emphatic 19-2 run.

Sudanese born player Akolde Mayom took to the court for the first time late in the match.

In a furious three minutes, the long-armed 200 cm centre picked up two enormous blocks and six rebounds as the Hunters reeled off five consecutive three-point baskets.

Whipping the parochial crowd into frenzy, the Hunters then missed two wide-open chances to draw even closer to Parramatta with a minute to play.

The unlikely comeback withered in the final minutes and the Hunters left the floor to a standing ovation by the strong crowd.

Point guard and captain Mat McGovern led the way for the Hunters with a season best performance of 18 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists.

The Hunters women made light work of the Wildcats, with a punishing 99-51 victory.

The Hunters side shot 70 per cent in the first quarter, piling on 32 points, and very narrowly missed hitting the century mark.

With all players getting on the scoreboard, the Hunters best were Katie Ebzery (20 points) and Dimity Stewart (18 points) who led the scoring, while sharp shooting Suzie Walmsley picked up a career high 16 points.

The Hunters women have a bye this weekend, while the men head up the Hunter River for the Kibble-Mallon Cup as they take on arch rivals Maitland.

The game tips off at 6pm at the Mustangs home court on Dent Street, Maitland.