Volcanoes Survive Another Late Scare
Published on June 13, 2010 under International Basketball League (IBL)
Vancouver Volcanoes News Release
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON- June 12. This makes the third game in a row that the Vancouver Volcanoes have had to defend the basket in the final seconds of the game. Once again, with 2.2 seconds left in the fourth, Vancouver held the lead by a mere two points. Guard Paul Hafford for the Bellingham Slam, who drained 40 points in tonight's game, put up the final 3-point shot- thankfully it went wide. The game ended with the Slam 127, Volcanoes 129.
An unusual style of game play, the Volcanoes found it hard to take the lead in the early parts of the game, being outscored in the first 41 to 33, and falling behind by a margin of 6 to 8 points for the better part of the first half.
What allowed them to get back into the game was the aggressiveness on defense. A lot of easy points were racked up by the Slam due to Vancouver's inability to get down the court on defense in the early part of the game.
"We displayed a great defensive effort and were a much better inside presence," coach Bryan Hunter said
But what has improved dramatically is the shot percentage. The Volcanoes were able to shoot 52% from 3-point range and out-muscle the Slam under the boards, outnumbering them 51 to 42.
However, the quickness the Slam's defense was something that Vancouver struggled to equalize. The Slam were able to gain 16 steals at Vancouver's expense.
"Both are pretty scrappy teams who fight hard for the ball, but thankfully we were able to come out on top tonight," Hunter continued.
The win marks an important morale booster for the Volcanoes, who are coming off two disappointing losses at home. Next week they go up against the Oregon Waves, a team that they were able to tame last time they played 112 to 130.
International Basketball League Stories from June 13, 2010
- Legends Get Best of Soldiers Again - Albany Legends
- Volcanoes Survive Another Late Scare - Vancouver Volcanoes
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.
