Worthing Thunder's major final jinx struck again as they lost to arch-rivals Reading Rockets in the National Trophy decider in Manchester.
Thunder were outscored 25-11 in the fourth quarter to lose 84-68 at the Amaechi Centre.
It was their third final defeat in 14 months and a repeat of last season's Trophy final loss to Reading.
Thunder never really got into their stride, though they clawed back a 25-16 deficit at the end of the first quarter to briefly lead 57-54 late in the third.
Rockets, though, dominated the fourth and cantered away for a deserved win, despite having centre Danny Carter ejected for a third-quarter clash with Daniel Hildreth.
Demetrius Scott top scored for Worthing with 21 points, going ten-for-17 from the field.
James Mooney added 20, helped by four three-pointers from 14 attempts.
Cleve Woodfork scored ten points, Pat Bates seven, Danny Midgley six and Hildreth and James Brame two apiece for a Thunder side missing the suspended Ryan Marrast.
Andy Harper went ten-of-ten from the free-throw line in his game-high 29 for Rockets and Dave Watts added 20.
Thunder must now re-group for what is effectively a title decider back at the same venue next Saturday, when they face EBL division one leaders Manchester Magic.
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