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D-Fenders Clinch Playoff Spot with Win

March 30, 2008 - NBA G League (G League)
Los Angeles D-Fenders News Release


EL SEGUNDO, CA - Errick Craven drained two free throws with 5.1 seconds remaining to give the Los Angeles D-Fenders a 111-110 victory over the Anaheim Arsenal Sunday at STAPLES Center.

With the win, Los Angeles (31-14) clinched a spot in the 2008 NBA D-League Playoffs and moved within 0.5 games behind the Idaho Stampede for the top spot in the Western Division. The teams went back and forth in the fourth quarter, featuring five ties and 10 lead changes, including the final change in the waning moments.

"It was a hard fought game," said D-Fenders Head Coach Dan Panaggio. "I tip my hat to Anaheim because they are a really improved team. They were all we could handle tonight and we were very fortunate to get out of here with a win."

Each Los Angeles starter hit the double-figure mark for the third consecutive game, with the frontline proving to be the difference. Forward Sean Banks led the team with 24 points while center Jelani McCoy poured in 23, on 9-13 shooting. Forward Brandon Wallace produced another all-around effort with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 blocks.

"We got some stops when we had to and we tightened up our defense at the right time." McCoy added. "They were able to fight into the fourth quarter and stay close, so it was a good win."

The D-Fenders, who shot 52% from the floor, had led by as many as 15 points in the second quarter, but were only able to go into halftime with a 62-57 lead. Anaheim closed the gap, down only one at the end of three quarters. Los Angeles tied a season-high mark with 16 rejections in the victory.

Anaheim was led by backcourt mates Will Blalock and Mo Charlo. Blalock, who temporarily gave Anaheim the lead with two free throws with 9.7 seconds remaining, led the Arsenal with 22 points and Charlo added 20 in the loss. Anaheim's Ejike Ugboaja chipped in with 14 and a team-high 18 rebounds off the bench.

"The D-Fenders definitely came out with more energy, but we were able to settle down," said Arsenal Head Coach Reggie Geary. "Anytime you play the D-Fenders, you know it's going to be a tight affair. You know it is going to come down to one or two possessions, and it did."

The D-Fenders will face-off with the Idaho Stampede on Wednesday, April 2nd at STAPLES Center with first place in the Western Division on the line. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:30pm. Anaheim will host the Utah Flash for a Friday night showdown.

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