Otago Boys' High School (11-2) blew the Bombers (7-6) out of the Edgar Centre on Saturday in an intimidating display of its much-vaunted depth.
The competition leader was without Luke Aston, Ethan Carruthers and Tom Rowe, but it did not matter.
Point guard Jordan Small clearly enjoyed every one of his 27 points after a long injury layoff, and has clearly lost none of his speed or ability to handle the ball.
Running mate Cody Gillies sprang effortlessly off either foot on his way to an easy 18 points in his most impressive game so far this season.
Chris Hepburn put up the most resistance for the Bombers in the box score, compiling 21 points on mid-range jump shots and put-backs.
Steve Robinson and Murray Clarke each scored nine points before being ejected midway through the third quarter for tussling on the baseline.
The two men looked bemused as they walked away together, chatting and joking as they went.
The Magic (7-6) accounted for the Comets (2-11) 81-65 in the day's second game, further clouding the playoff picture.
Ollie Smith scored in bunches on his way to 37 points as the Magic easily accounted for the students back from their break.
Sam McKenzie notched up 19 points in a losing effort, and Campbell Arnott added 16 for the Comets, who will now look to play spoilers the rest of the way.
The Saints (6-7) proved too strong for the Falcons (6-7) in the final fixture.
Cain Falconer top-scored for the Saints with 33 points, and Damon Cleverley added 26 as the Saints won 83-75.
Matt Dawson staged a late attack for the Falcons with 13 points in the final quarter, but Cleverley scored 10 of his own in the period to seal the win.
The Bombers' recent struggles, coupled with surges in succession by the Magic, Falcons and Saints over the last month, mean all four teams are locked in a battle for second place.
