NS Matrix lost 93-102 to Croatia's KK Split on Thursday, but they still progressed to the Seri Mutiara Cup semi-finals.

With Taiwanese outfit Fubon Braves losing a close game, 92-93, to ousted champions Guangzhou Securities in the other group match, it was enough for both the Malaysian and Croatian teams to go through with two wins and one loss.

The other semi-finalists from the other group are Beijing Fly Dragons and LG Sakers.

The Matrix came close to beating the Split though because they had an 88-87 lead with 3:47 remaining on the clock in the final quarter, but a 5-15 final run cost them the game.

Keith Hornsby was unable to replicate his impressive performances in the first two games, shooting eight of 21 from the floor and being limited to just 19 points, while Bryson Fonville contributed 31 points from the bench and Jaleel Roberts recorded a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds.

The semi-final matches will take place at the MABA Stadium on September 16.

OTHER SCORES
LG Sakers (South Korea) 90-69 Kano Pillars (Nigeria)
Link Tochigi Brex (Japan) 83-73 Beijing Fly Dragons (China)

(Picture: Facebook/NBL Asia)