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Altitude Outlasts Groove's Late Rally

November 22, 2002 - NBA G League (G League)
Asheville Altitude News Release


Asheville, N.C., Nov. 21, 2002 -- Lee Scruggs recorded 22 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Asheville Altitude to a 76-70 win over the Greenville Groove. The Altitude fought off a final second comeback to extend their overall record to 2-2, while the Groove, who remains winless for the season, drop to 0-4.

The Groove commanded the first quarter, connecting on 47 percent from the field. Strengthened by Kevin Lyde, who connected on 3-for-3 in the quarter, the Groove took the early 24-17 lead. But the Altitude, behind the hot hands of Scruggs, battled back in the second quarter to cut the lead to five by halftime.

"Although we played a disappointing first half, the key to the game was that we were able to hang on," explained head coach Joey Meyer. "Lee was on fire so the game plan was simple, get the ball in his hands."

Second half execution provided the spark for the Altitude's offense. Scruggs, who tormented the Groove's defense with an arsenal of jumpers and layups, shouldered most of the third quarter's load with 12 points.

"We begin to execute on offense and get the ball inside at the right time," said Scruggs. "I was happy that we were able to pull it together on both the defensive and offensive end to win the game."

Asheville's Paul Grant poured in 14 points off the bench, while Andre Woolridge followed closely with 13 points. Greenville's Billy Thomas scored a game-high 23 points and four rebounds and Brandon Kurtz and Kevin Lyde added with 10 points a piece.

The Altitude shot 48 percent field but a dismal 14 percent from the perimeter. Scruggs recorded 11-for-14 from the field. The Groove shot 33 percent from the field and 15 percent from 3-point range.

Both the Altitude and Groove will face the Fayetteville Patriots for their next opponent. The Groove, with little time to rest, will host the Patriots tomorrow, Nov. 22 at the Crown Coliseum, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The Altitude will host the Patriots on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 7:15 p.m.

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