Slam Defeat Salem 125-109, Finish Perfect at Home
June 30, 2013 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Bellingham Slam News Release
BELLINGHAM, Wash. - The Bellingham Slam broke open a close contest in the third quarter as they defeated the Salem Sabres, 125-109, in International Basketball League play at Whatcom Pavilion on Saturday.
Despite leading from start to finish, the Slam weren't able to put away the Sabres after competitive play through the first half, with Bellingham leading 55-46 at halftime.
Leading 68-61 midway through the third quarter, the Slam used a 10-2 run to build a double-digit lead that they would not relinquish. Bellingham led 91-75 going into the fourth quarter.
Center Evan Matteson scored eight of his 16 points early in the fourth quarter to thwart any possible comeback attempt by the Sabres.
Guards Drew Ready and Morris Anderson tied for Bellingham's scoring lead with 23 points apiece. Rookie guard Rico Wilkins finished just behind with 22. Matteson complemented his 16 points with a game-high 14 rebounds.
The victory gave Bellingham a perfect record at home in 2013, the second time the team has accomplished the feat in the team history. The Slam have won a team-record 21 consecutive games at home.
With the top seed in next week's IBL playoff tournament already locked up, the Slam finish the regular season on Sunday with a road game against the Seattle Flight. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. at Pierce College in Lakewood.
The Slam open the 2013 IBL Playoffs in Portland on July 4 with a semi-final match-up against either the Salem Sabres or Japan Tornadoes. Game time is 5 p.m. at Eastmoreland Court in Portland.
For more information, contact the Slam at (360) 734-SLAM or visit their website at www.bellinghamslam.com.
• Discuss this story on the International Basketball League message board...
International Basketball League Stories from June 30, 2013
- Slam Finish Regular Season with 117-104 Road Win over Seattle - Bellingham Slam
- Slam Defeat Salem 125-109, Finish Perfect at Home - Bellingham Slam
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
