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Memphis Grizzlies Prospect Scores 14 Points in First Quarter to Lead Riverdragons

November 9, 2002 - NBA G League (G League)
Columbus Riverdragons News Release


COLUMBUS, Ga., (November 9, 2002) – Tang Hamilton sent a message early and often exploding for 14 points in the first quarter to pace the Columbus Riverdragons past the Greenville Groove, 71-62, in the teams’ NBDL preseason opener at the Lumpkin Center on the campus of Columbus State University.

Hamilton, who was one of the final cuts in the Memphis Grizzlies vet camp this October, hit 5-of-7 shots from the floor and was a prefect 4-for-4 from the free throw line over 10 minutes in his only action in the first half. Hamilton scored six points in the second half to finish with a game-high 20 points coupled with five rebounds.

“No question, Tang is going to be one of our go-to guys this season,” said Riverdragons head coach Jeff Malone. “Both Nate (Johnson) and Tang are going to cause match-up problems for teams all season long. There is a reason Tang is getting a serious look by NBA teams and tonight you saw why.”

10-year NBA vet Derek Strong, the Riverdragons first round pick in the 2002 NBDL Draft, also played effectively pitching in 11 points and five rebounds over 19 minutes. Returning Riverdragons guard Jeremy Veal also reached double figures, posting 11 points on 5-for-5 shooting from the floor.

The Groove struggled from the floor shooting percent 31% (22-of-71 FGAÂ’s) from the field. Donald Hand led Greenville with 10 points and was the only Groove player to reach double-figures.

The Riverdragons finish the preseason Monday night against the Asheville Altitude. The Riverdragons open the regular season Friday, November 15 against the Groove at the BI-LO Center in Greenville.

The Riverdragons raised $1,569 for local chapters of the United Way with proceeds from tonight's game.

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