Dominant Second Half Stops Skyforce at Showcase

Published on January 7, 2014 under NBA G League (G League)
Los Angeles D-Fenders News Release


RENO, NV - The Los Angeles D-Fenders defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 116-109 in the primetime game of the D-League Showcase at the Reno Events Center tonight.

In the first quarter, the D-Fenders (8-7) jumped out to an early 15-6 lead and looked to be in control of the Skyforce (11-6). However, the D-Fenders became careless with the ball and turned it over eight times leading to a seven-point deficit after one. Los Angeles got back into the game in the second frame by getting to loose balls and offensive rebounds which led to 12 second-chance points. In total, the D-Fenders shot 44.9 percent from the floor, but only hit three of their 15 attempts from beyond the arc and trailed by four at the half.

In the third frame, the D-Fenders came blazing out of the gates with an 18-4 run over the first five minutes. The torrid pace continued for Los Angeles to the tune of a third-quarter season-high 41 points on 68.2 percent from the field. The D-Fenders never surrendered the lead in the fourth period and led by as many as 17 points before claiming their eight win of the season and fifth win in a row.

The reserves played a key role for Los Angeles as Brandon Costner (24 points, seven rebounds) and James Southerland (21 points) led Los Angeles in scoring while coming off of the bench. Manny Harris (18 points), Jamario Moon (14 points, eight rebounds, four steals) and Josiah Turner (10 points, six assists) also finished in double-digits for the D-Fenders.

Justin Hamilton led the charge for Sioux Falls by claiming his third straight double-double (20 points, 12 rebounds) against the D-Fenders this season. Henry Walker (17 points), Tre Kelley (16 points) and A.J. Davis (13 points) also finished in double-digits for the Skyforce. Anthony Mason Jr. also pitched in 17 points and seven rebounds off of the bench.

Overall, Los Angeles outscored Sioux Falls 41 to 27 in the third quarter and 61 to 50 in the second half to secure the win. In addition, the D-Fenders held the edge in field goal percentage (48.4 - 43.0), free throw percentage (81.8 - 77.8), rebounds (46 - 43) and assists (26 - 20).

Los Angeles will play their second game at the D-League Showcase tomorrow at 7:00pm against the Tulsa 66ers, at the Reno Events Center, in Reno, Nevada.

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



NBA G League Stories from January 7, 2014


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