Ignite Falls in New Year's Eve Contest to Skyforce, 126-110
December 31, 2023 - NBA G League (G League)
NBA G League Ignite News Release
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - NBA G League Ignite (0-3) fell in its New Year's Ever matchup against the Sioux Falls Skyforce (3-0), 126-110, on Saturday evening at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, S.D.
John Jenkins led the way for Ignite after finishing with 22 points on 7-of-13 shots from the field, including 3-of-6 from the three-point line. Matas Buzelis followed with 16 points, two rebounds, two assists, two blocks and two steals. Izan Almansa almost notched a double-double with 14 points and nine rebounds, while Ron Holland added 12 points and three rebounds.
Orlando Robinson paced the Skyforce after recording a double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds on 10-of-18 shooting from the field. Jamaree Bouyea and Cole Swider pitched in 19 points each, while Bouyea tallied eight assists and seven rebounds. Caleb Daniels provided 15 points and six rebounds off the bench.
In a tightly contested first quarter, Tyler Smith led the way with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting from the field, including 2-of-3 from behind the arc to help Ignite even the score heading into the second period (28-28). The Skyforce created separation in the second quarter after recording 43 points in the frame led by Orlando Brown, who poured in 10 of his 24 points on 4-of-6 shooting from the field. The Skyforce held an advantage in points in the paint (46-20), while its entire starting lineup finished the half in double figures to take a 71-57 lead at halftime. Coming out of the break, the Skyforce continued to score at an efficient rate en route to taking a 31-point lead in the third period and coasted to the victory despite a late rally by Ignite in the fourth quarter.
NEXT UP
The two teams will square off again on Tuesday, Jan. 2, at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, S.D., tipping off at 4:30 p.m. PT/7:30 p.m. ET. Coverage will be available on ESPN+.
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