Skyforce Rumbles over Stampede
March 22, 2014 - NBA G League (G League)
Sioux Falls Skyforce News Release
Sioux Falls SD - The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Idaho Stampede 103-94 Friday night at the Sanford Pentagon. The game was close in the first half, but a dominant Sioux Falls third quarter paved the way for their third straight home win.
The defensive intensity was high for both teams in the first half, but Sioux Falls was able to rebound after halftime to build a lead that grew to as many as 24 points in the second half. The third quarter was especially productive for the Skyforce, who shot 68.2 percent in the period and outscored the Stampede 35-20. Sioux Falls also dominated the boards in the third quarter, holding an eight rebound advantage.
Idaho struggled on the offensive end in noteworthy fashion as they tied a season low for field goals made (33), set a season low in field goal percentage (37.1 percent) and finished the night with 20 turnovers. The Stampede was also held 16 points off their average offensive output (110). Sioux Falls' defensive prowess led them to tie a franchise record for blocked shots (16), a record set Feb. 28, 1999 against Idaho.
Six Sioux Falls (26-19) players scored in double figures to lead a balanced Skyforce attack. Tre Kelley and Anthony Mason Jr. led the way with 17 points each, followed by 15 for Henry Walker and Miami HEAT assignee Justin Hamilton, 12 for DeAndre Liggins and 10 off the bench for Craig Smith. Liggins and Hamilton both completed their double-doubles by pulling down a game-high 10 rebounds, and Larry Drew II dished out a game-high 10 assists.
Idaho (23-20) was led by Kevin Murphy and Derrick Caracter, who both chipped in 21 followed closely by Vander Blue's 19-point effort. Caracter and Blue both achieved their double figures off the bench.
The same two teams will tangle tomorrow night at the Sanford Pentagon at 7 p.m. CT.
NBA G League Stories from March 22, 2014
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- Energy Acquire Josh Boone - Iowa Wolves
- Jake O'Brien Added to Jam Roster - Bakersfield Jam
- Warriors Edge Bighorns - Santa Cruz Warriors
- Reno Bighorns' Comeback Comes up Short against Santa Cruz - Reno Bighorns
- Skyforce Rumbles over Stampede - Sioux Falls Skyforce
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