Vipers Suffer First Home Loss
December 18, 2010 - NBA G League (G League)
Rio Grande Valley Vipers News Release
HIDALGO, TEXAS - The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers lost at State Farm Arena for the first time this season, 99-93 to the Bakersfield Jam on Saturday in front of a crowd of 3,687.
The Jam (7-6) went on a 13-0 run midway though the second quarter to take a 40-34 lead. Richard Roby ended the run with a three-pointer, sparking a 9-2 Vipers (6-5) run as the Vipers took a 43-42 lead at the 3:56 mark. Stephen Dennis hit a three-pointer with 45.6 seconds remaining in the quarter to give the Jam a 53-45 lead, but Jerel McNeal responded with a three-pointer and Antonio Anderson hit one at the buzzer to bring the Vipers within two.
The Vipers tied the game at 65-65 after Mustafa Shakur hit a pair of free throws with 5:31 remaining in the third quarter, but the Jam went on a 13-6 run to close the third quarter to take a 78-71 lead.
The Vipers scored the first seven points of the fourth quarter to tie the game when McNeal hit a three-pointer. Dennis and Brandon Wallace followed with consecutive buckets to give the Jam a 82-78 that they did not relinquish.
The Vipers had five players in double-figures scoring: Patrick Sullivan (21 points), McNeal (18 points), Roby (18 points), Shakur (10 points) and Terrel Harris (10 points).
Marqus Blakely led the way for the Jam with 19 points and 13 rebounds (seven offensive). Trey Johnson led all scorers with 24 points.
The Vipers return to action on Monday at 7:00 p.m. when they host the New Mexico Thunderbirds at State Farm Arena. Fans can receive free tickets by donating four non-perishable food items at the door. All donations will benefit the Salvation Army. Fans are encouraged to bring new toys to donate to the Salvation Army toy drive. Fans will be able to purchase hot dogs, popcorn and soda for $1.00 each and beer for $1.50 each. Doors open at 6:00.
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