Johnson leads 36ers to win at Hawks

Daniel Johnson was the star of the show for the 36ers in the six-point victory, with 21 points, including 7/10 from the free-throw line and 10 rebounds.

"Our ability to control the tempo of the game was key for us in the win," 36ers coach Joey Wright said.

"Our defensive pressure was great against Brisbane and we carried that into this match, which was really pleasing.

"It's this pressure that allows us to get out and run on offence."

Big man Johnson was one of five 36ers to score in double figures, being joined by imports Ramone Moore (16) and Jerome Randle (15), centre Harry Froling (15) and forward Jack McVeigh (14) - highlighting the potency of their attack.

"Everyone knows we like to push the pace, but the key to that is not settling for outside shots and getting an inside presence - which I thought we did well," Wright said.

"We back ourselves to make those shots from three but it's all about making the right decision.

"We know how important inside looks can be - it can create more space for shooters but also get us easy points at the line."

Wright's side were 31/40 from the charity stripe, compared to the Hawks 16/21 - who were also just 8/30 from deep.

A game-high 31 points by 645-game NBA veteran Aaron Brooks kept the Hawks in the contest for the majority of the night.

In the loss, US sensation LaMelo Ball contributed 15 points, seven assists and five rebounds, while Sam Froling added 12 points and five rebounds for the Hawks - who had Josh Boone (broken nose) return to the lineup after a one-game absence.

The 36ers, now 2-1 for the season, will look to extend their winning streak to three games when they host Cairns on Friday, while the Hawks (1-4) will be out to end a two-game skid in New Zealand on Thursday.

Australian Associated Press