Slam Clinch Top Playoff Seed with 111-83 Victory over Pit Bulls
June 23, 2013 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Bellingham Slam News Release
MARTINEZ, Calif. "" The Bellingham Slam pulled out a gutsy 111-83 victory over the East Bay Pit Bulls in hot and humid conditions inside NorCal Court in Martinez on Saturday evening.
Having just arrived in the Bay Area earlier in the afternoon following Friday's home win over Vancouver, the Slam understandably lacked energy early as East Bay jumped out to a 9-2 lead. But the Slam eventually found their legs and rallied for a 27-26 lead after one quarter.
The second quarter proved to be a defensive masterpiece for the Slam, as they held the Pit Bulls to a team-record six points to take a 51-32 advantage into halftime.
Bellingham continued to dominate in the second half, as back-to-back three-pointers by center Blake Poole pushed the margin to 22, at 68-46 with 5:45 left in the third quarter.
With both teams visibly fatigued by the fourth quarter, the clubs combined for 47 points as the Slam largely held the Pit Bulls in check to secure the victory.
Poole finished an outstanding weekend with a game-highs of 32 points and 16 rebounds, and also added six assists. Guards Jacob Stevenson, Rico Wilkins and Drew Ready all contributed 18. Stevenson continued to make a strong case to be the IBL's Defensive Player of the Year with a season-high eight steals.
East Bay was led by forward Joston Thomas, who finished with a triple-double of 23 points, 14 rebounds and 10 turnovers.
With the win, the Slam have clinched the overall number one seed at the IBL Championship tournament, which begins in July. Bellingham will open the playoffs with a semi-final game on July 4 at Eastmoreland Court in Portland.
The Slam returns to Whatcom Pavilion for their final home game against the Salem Sabres on June 29. Tip-off is set for 7pm.
For more information, contact the Slam at (360) 734-SLAM or visit their website at www.bellinghamslam.com.
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International Basketball League Stories from June 23, 2013
- Slam Clinch Top Playoff Seed with 111-83 Victory over Pit Bulls - Bellingham Slam
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