Nellikai Royal Kings claimed a narrow victory over Salem Spartans with a final score of 146:140 in the Tamil Nadu Premier League on 20 August 2026. The hosts held their nerve in a game that went down to the wire before closing out the result. It moved them clear in fifth place while leaving the visitors in eighth.
Both sides had played seven matches before this encounter. Nellikai sat on eight points from four wins and three losses, while Salem had managed just one victory across seven outings, sitting on two points. The hosts had been involved in a string of tight contests recently, including a 163:162 win over Lika Kovai Kings and a 172:170 victory against Dindigul Dragons.
Scoring came at a premium for neither side in this one. The hosts opened the scoring early and maintained pressure throughout, while Salem responded with their own bursts of activity. By then the pattern was set — a game where both teams traded baskets without giving an inch. The hosts pulled ahead in the closing stages and held on for the six-point margin.
Salem's record tells a story of struggle. They had lost their previous five matches, including heavy defeats such as 158:239 to Dindigul Dragons and 159:195 against Madurai Panthers. Their lone win in seven games came earlier in the campaign. This result extended their winless run to six matches.
The victory keeps Nellikai within touching distance of the top four. They now sit two points behind third place with a game in hand. Salem remain rooted to the bottom half of the table, needing to find consistency if they are to mount a serious challenge.