Last Second Layup Lifts T-Birds Over Stampede
January 23, 2010 - NBA G League (G League)
New Mexico Thunderbirds News Release
ALBUQUERQUE, NM, Jan. 23, 2010 - Antoine Agudio's late game heroics proved to be too much for Idaho as the Thunderbirds knocked off the Stampede on Saturday night, 109-108. Agudio's driving layup with just under five seconds to play sealed the win for Albuquerque, as the team improved its record to 11-12.
Albuquerque trailed 29-22 at the end of the first quarter, but closed the gap to 31-30 with 9:15 to go in the half after a Kurt Looby block ignited a T-Birds fast break. The team took its first lead of the game two minutes later after a Shane Edwards dunk but the team on top 38-37.
The Thunderbirds went on to outscore the Stampede 42-23 in the second, and held a 12 point lead at halftime. Albuquerque led 89-77 going into the fourth quarter, despite Idaho repeatedly closing the gap to single digits throughout the third.
The Stampede tied the game at 103 with 1:15 to play in the game, but Antoine Agudio responded with a layup on the next play to give the T-Birds a two point lead.
On Idaho's next possession, Coby Karl connected on a three to put the Stampede up one with 40.2 to play. The two teams traded free throws on the next two possessions, with Agudio hitting two for Albuquerque and Karl making two for Idaho.
With 12.8 seconds to play, Albuquerque once again went to the hot hand in Agudio. With just under eight seconds on the clock, he made his move to the basket, going right at the heart of the Stampede defense. Idaho's Lance Allred forced Agudio to alter his shot, but the high arcing layup rattled home and the T-Birds reclaimed the lead.
Idaho got the ball to Karl once again on the game's final play, but his three came up short and the T-Birds held on for the one point victory.
Carlos Powell added 18 for Albuquerque. Chad Toppert (15), Kris Collins (13) and Shane Edwards (10) also scored in double figures for the Thunderbirds.
Donell Taylor led the way for Idaho with 30 points. Karl added 28 for the Stampede.
The game featured six ties and seven lead changes. Albuquerque shot 44.9% from the field, compared to 49.4% for Idaho.
The T-Birds will be in action again on Jan. 28 when they host the Dakota Wizards. This will be the Thunderbirds first "Thirsty Thursday" game of the season, with $2.50 drink specials all night. Fans can purchase box seats for just $5, which is $15 off the box office price. Call 505.265.3865 or visit www.abqtbirds.com for more information.
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