The 20-year-old guard scored the last five points of the match, including a crucial three-pointer to draw level with 20 seconds left on the clock as the Hunters defeated the Waves 79-77 at Terrigal.

The win lifted the Hunters off the bottom of the ladder and within striking distance of the playoffs mid-way through the state-wide competition.

Roberts finished with 11 points but none were more critical than his triple and two free-throws when the scores were tied to take the win.

Central Coast had the last play of the game with less than two seconds on the clock but a two-point shot to take the game into overtime hot the rim and bounced back into the field of play.

Coach Larry Davidson was thrilled to beat Central Coast after his side were narrowly defeated 101-93 by Penrith Panthers at Penrith on Saturday night.

Ryan Beisty had 27 points and 10 rebounds in the loss to Penrith before fouling out late in the game.

The Hunters women reclaimed top spot on the WBL ladder with a sensational 77-68 win over the Panthers at Penrith on Saturday night.

Susi Walmsley led the Hunters’ scoring with 19 points and Amanda Bendeich (11 points, 14 rebounds) and Jasmine Forcadilla (11 points, nine rebounds) were also major contributors to the win.

The Hunters women have a 6-2 winning record and sit ahead of Norths Bears (5-1) and Penrith (4-2) and have this weekend off as Maitland do not field a WBL women’s team.

The Kibble-Mallon Cup will be on the line when the Hunters travel to Maitland for a 7pm showdown with the Mustangs on Anzac Day.

Maitland won the Cup last year under the guidance of coach Larry Davidson who is coaching the Hunters men’s team this year.