Slam dethrone 2009 IBL champion Lightning, advance to semi-finals
July 3, 2010 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Bellingham Slam News Release
PORTLAND - The Bellingham Slam rode the hot shooting of Paul Hafford and Derrick Webb as they defeated the Los Angeles Lightning, 112-94, in the second round of the International Basketball League playoffs at Warner Pacific College on Friday.
The Slam, who won the IBL championship in 2008, eliminated the defending champions with the victory.
The first half was close throughout and featured seven lead changes, before Chris Ayer completed a three-point play at the end of the second quarter to put Los Angeles up 54-52. Webb led the Slam with 11 points at the half.
Bellingham took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Lightning 36-17. The turning point was a 15-6 run in the quarter's closing minutes that saw Hafford 13 straight points for the Slam, including a four-point play, and gave them an 88-71 lead.
Los Angeles made things a bit interesting late in the fourth quarter, as they were able to trim the deficit to 11 points with three minutes left to play. But the Slam put the game away by scoring the next nine points.
Hafford led all scorers with 26 points for Bellingham, who avenged a semi-final loss to Los Angeles in last year's postseason. Webb finished with 16 points, while Lukas Henne had a fine showing defensively, picking up eight rebounds and five blocks.
Los Angeles was led by Chris Ayer, who posted a double-double with 25 points and 15 rebounds. Billy Knight finished with 23 points. As a team, the Lightning struggled from three-point range, shooting just 4-for-26.
The Slam advance to the championship semi-finals against the Yamhill Highflyers, who defeated the Olympia Reign in the American Conference's other second round game. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. at Warmer Pacific College.
For more information, contact the Slam at (360) 734-SLAM or visit their website at www.bellinghamslam.com.
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