G League Grand Rapids Drive

Drive Fall 115-113 in Greensboro

Published on November 10, 2018 under NBA G League (G League)
Grand Rapids Drive News Release


GREENSBORO - The Greensboro Swarm (3-0) stayed undefeated Saturday, winning a down-to-the-wire contest over the Grand Rapids Drive (2-2), 115-113. Hornets assignee Devonte' Graham was instrumental in the win for Greensboro as he poured in 38 points and hit seven three-pointers. The Drive had two opportunities to tie or win the game in the closing seconds, but the Swarm's defense held.

The Drive led by as many as 13 points in the first quarter, and the Swarm did not tie or lead until the fourth quarter. They cut the lead to four points by the end of the third, scoring 33 points in the third quarter against a Drive defense that had not allowed more than 21 points in a third quarter in their first three games this season. Graham scored 18 points in the third quarter and 30 in the second half.

Aside from Graham, Joe Chealey had 13 points and five assists for the Swarm, JP Macura had 12 points and Chinanu Onuaku provided 11 points and 14 rebounds.

Another NBA assignee, Khyri Thomas, had a big day for the Drive as his 32 points were the most by a Grand Rapids player this season. Henry Ellenson had his fourth double-double in as many games with 18 points and 12 rebounds, and Speedy Smith also chipped in 12 points, six rebounds, six assists and three steals off the bench for the Drive.

The Drive were on fire from three-point range early in the game, shooting 8-of-13 from beyond the arch in the first quarter. But they managed just 7-of-29 for the rest of the game to finish with a pedestrian 35.7 percent clip. Mostly propelled by Graham, the Swarm shot 14-of-34 from three-point range for 41.4 percent.

The Swarm also vitally cured their problems at the free-throw line down the stretch in the closing seconds of the game. They hit only half of their 12 free throw attempts in the first three quarters, but finished the game hitting nine of their last 11.

Greensboro will have a bit of a break before again having to defend their perfect record, as they take on the Lakeland Magic on the road Friday for their next game. The Drive's next game is also Friday, as they return to the DeltaPlex to square off with the Windy City Bulls for the third time in five games.

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