Bighorns Topple D-Fenders, 103-96

Published on December 1, 2008 under NBA G League (G League)
Los Angeles D-Fenders News Release


EL SEGUNDO, CA - Damone Brown led the Reno Bighorns to a 103-96 victory over the Los Angeles D-Fenders Sunday night at STAPLES Center, scoring 27 points and grabbing a game-high 15 rebounds.

Going into the fourth quarter with a 77-75 advantage, Los Angeles was unable to close out the visiting Bighorns as they captured the first win in franchise history. Reno's starting forwards, Brown and Antonio Meeking each scored eight of their 27 points apiece in the final quarter to take give Reno the lead for good.

"I thought the game was up for grabs in the last five minutes and they grabbed it and we didn't;" said D-Fenders Head Coach Dan Panaggio. "We didn't execute, they executed."

Los Angeles (0-2) was led by Joe Crawford who poured in a game-high 37 points, while fellow D-Fenders guard Brandon Heath had 20 points and 6 rebounds. Dwayne Mitchell led the D-Fenders for the second straight game in rebounds (9) and assists (6). Jamaal Brown came off the bench to contribute 10 points and seven boards for Los Angeles. "(Crawford) played well and we're going to need him to do that;" added Panaggio. "We depend on him. Joe is core."

Despite being out-scored in the paint by ten points, Reno was able to capitalize from the charity stripe, getting to the free throw line 44 times. The D-Fenders were whistled for 33 personal fouls compared to only 20 for Reno.

The D-Fenders will look to find success on the road as they travel to Bakersfield on Friday night with a rematch against the Jam. Reno continues their California road trip as they head down to Anaheim for a contest on Wednesday against the Arsenal.

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



NBA G League Stories from December 1, 2008


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central