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G League Rio Grande Valley Vipers

Vipers Fall Short to Hustle

November 9, 2018 - NBA G League (G League)
Rio Grande Valley Vipers News Release


Southaven, Miss. - The Rio Grande Valley Vipers (1-1) fell short to Memphis Hustle (1-2) in the Hustle's home opener at Landers Center 111-124.

The first half featured more lead changes (25) than minutes and seven ties as the teams went back and forth for its entirety. Memphis knocked down 20 of its first 36 field goal attempts (.556), but Rio Grande Valley stayed within reach with its three-point shooting, converting on 9-of-17 (.529) from long range to start the game while the Hustle started just 2-of-8 (.250) in that same span.

The Hustle held an 83-81 lead with 7:17 remaining in the third quarter before the defense clamped down on the Rio Grande Valley attack. Memphis would hold the Vipers to just seven points for the remainder of the quarter to take a double-digit lead (99-88) into the final frame, leading by as many as 16 before closing out the win.

Memphis earned the win despite shooting just 8-of-27 (.296) from three-point range while Rio Grande Valley knocked down 19-of-41 (.463) attempts, due in part to forcing nearly twice as many turnovers (23-12) and totaling 12 steals to the Vipers' three. Additionally, the Hustle almost doubled up the Vipers in points in the paint (66-36), taking advantage of a flurry of high-percentage of shots. Memphis also converted 28-of-32 (.875) free throw attempts.

Grizzlies assignee Jevon Carter and two-way player Yuta Watanabe led the way for Memphis, tying for the team-high 25 points apiece. Carter also grabbed six rebounds to go with three assists. He also grabbed three steals, marking the third straight game in which he has swiped at least three from his opponents. Watanabe was an efficient 8-of-12 (.667) from the field and converted on 8-of-9 (.889) free throw attempts. Doral Moore scored all 14 of his points (6-8 FG) in the first half. Brandon Goodwin (13 points,) Tanner McGrew (13 points) and Kyle Casey also reached double figures.

Two-way player Vincent Edwards and Danuel House led Rio Grande Valley with 16 points each. Five other players scored in double figures, including 15 points from starting point guard Angel Rodriguez. Rockets assignee Zhou Qi added 12 points while Brandon Sampson was held to just 11 after scoring 27 points in the first meeting between the two teams. Michael Frazier (13 points) and Dakarai Tucker (10 points) both reached double figures off the bench.

The Vipers play their Military Appreciation Night on Thursday, November 15 at 7 p.m. against Austin Spurs. Season tickets for the Vipers 2018-19 season are on sale now. For more information, contact the RGV Vipers at 956-56-ARENA or visit www.rgvipers.com.

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NBA G League Stories from November 9, 2018


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