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RimRockers thawed by Thunderbirds

December 2, 2005 - NBA G League (G League)
Arkansas RimRockers News Release


Little Rock, Arkansas - In a game that came down to the final buzzer, the RimRockers could not overcome the visiting Thunderbirds. After going undefeated on the road, the RimRockers returned to Alltel Arena to lose 113-111, which was ironically the final score in their loss to the Austin Toros one week before.

"Once again, we didn't execute the plays that would have made the difference," Joe Harge, head coach of the

RimRockers, said. "We out shot the Thunderbirds from the field, but when it came down to rebounding and turning the ball over, they were clearly the better team tonight."

Both teams came out hot, but the RimRockers dominated much of the first half and managed to pull away by 18 points. They ended the period leading the Thunderbirds 57-47. Undeterred, Albuquerque came out from the break with a vengeance and quickly took the lead. After 5 ties and 4 lead changes, the Thunderbirds took control of the situation and ended the game with a jumper by Yuta Tabuse.

The RimRockers were led by Clay Tucker who poured in 26 points, followed by Kareem Reid's 19 points and 9 assists. Brian Jackson, Pape Sow and Myron Allen each added 16 to the RimRockers' total.

"Clay Tucker stepped up tonight. When Yuta Tabuse got hot and threatened to run away with the lead, Clay was right there answering with three-pointers and free throws. I couldn't have asked any more of him" Harge said.

The Thunderbirds, who shot 48 percent from the field, were led by Bryant Matthews who had 25 points, four steals and one blocked shot. Four other Thunderbirds scored in double figures and Randy Orr led the team in rebounds, grabbing nine total.

The Thunderbirds out rebounded the RimRockers 30 to 28, but the game's decisive stats were won around the basket. While in the paint, the Thunderbirds put the ball in the hole to score 60 points while the RimRockers were only able to connect and score 44 points.

The RimRockers continue their four game home stretch when they play again on Sunday, December 4 against the Fayetteville Patriots. Tip off is set for 3 p.m.



NBA G League Stories from December 2, 2005


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