D-Fenders Come Close But Fall Short To The Thunderbirds

Published on December 27, 2009 under NBA G League (G League)
Los Angeles D-Fenders News Release


EL SEGUNDO, CA-Despite a packed Toyota Sports Center, the D-Fenders' fourth quarter comeback fell short to the Albuquerque Thunderbirds in their 115 to 111 victory. Albuquerque's Carlos Powell led the game with 40 points, while D-Fenders Joe Crawford carried his team with 24 points.

Albuquerque held the lead throughout the first quarter, outscoring Los Angeles 34 to 23 to finish the quarter. Powell led the Thunderbirds with 14 points and four rebounds. Michael Fey led the D-Fenders with eight points and four rebounds at the end of the first.

The Thunderbirds maintained the lead to close the half 69 to 55, outscoring the D-Fenders 35 to 32 in the second quarter. At the close of the half, Powell posted 24 points and five rebounds, while teammate Keith McLeod contributed with 11 points and five assists. Diamon Simpson carried the D-Fenders with 12 points, with Crawford and Fey adding 10 points apiece.

The D-Fenders outscored the Thunderbirds 26 to 25 in the third but the Thunderbirds sustained the lead at 94 to 81 to end the quarter. Los Angeles' Crawford led the team with 19 points. Albuquerque's Powell continued to lead his team with 34 points and six rebounds to finish the third.

Los Angeles outscored their opponent 30 to 21 in the fourth quarter but the Thunderbirds managed to control the game from start to finish. Albuquerque finished the game shooting 51.3% from the field and 44.4% from outside of the arc.

"We have to be ready to compete from the opening tip. We cannot get ourselves down and have to battle back, that takes too much energy," said D-Fenders Assistant Coach, Rasheed Hazzard on taking on the Thunderbirds again Tuesday, December 29.

The Los Angeles D-Fenders take on the Albuquerque Thunderbirds at the STAPLES Center, Tuesday, December 29 at 3:30pm. If you can't make the game, be sure to tune in to www.nba.com/futurecast.

For the first time, the D-Fenders are offering exclusive eight and four game ticket packages, starting as low as $20. These ticket packages are available now. For more information on D-Fenders ticket packages or to purchase a package please contact Donovan Holvay at 310-426-6042 or visit www.d-fenders.com.

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NBA G League Stories from December 27, 2009


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