Needing a win, the Cubs leapt out of the gates to lead 16-13 after the first period.

This laid the platform for the visitors at the Sutherland Basketball Stadium, who outscored their opponents 37-18 in the second quarter, to lead 53-31 at half-time.

The Tigers' intensity continued in the third, as they extended their advantage to 28 points, heading into the final term.

Balsar's troops closed it out in the fourth, to run out winners by 16 points.

"We know every game from here on in is a grand final for us," Balsar said.

"In the lead up to this game, I emphasised our execution needed to be at close to 90 per cent, up significantly from our regular 70 per cent," Balsar said.

"Although the first quarter was a grind, we really asserted our authority in the second quarter, led by Brayden Morris and Luke Smith, and went on from there.

"Our disruptive defence really set the tone, helping us keep our finals dream alive."

In the victory, skipper Riley O'Shannessy and Gavin Costain both scored 21 points.

The Cubs now have to win their remaining two matches, starting with Saturday's clash with the Sydney Comets from 6pm at the Den, before hosting Manly-Warringah the following weekend, while hoping the Illawarra Hawks lose to both Newcastle and Hills, to sneak into the all important top six.