Giant faces off against a Texas Raider, February 27th, 2016. Photography by Gary Lloyd McCullough.
Despite several key players out with injuries, the Jacksonville Giants continued their winning streak with a 144-116 win over the Fayetteville Flight. Maurice Mickens (26 points), Chris Blake (20 points), and Bruce Brown (15 points) led Jacksonville for individual points. The Giants will now look to the postseason as they play their final regular season game on Sunday against Fayetteville.
“I wanted the guys to have fun this weekend since they have played so hard this year,” said Giants Coach Kevin Waters. “I’m so proud of the guys.”
The Giants played a strong first quarter. Coupled with a fast pace offense, point guard Maurice Mickens lead the charge with 13 points in the first quarter two baskets of which were 3-pointers. The long range three pointers and potent defensive attack energized the home crowd at Edward Waters College. Jacksonville used multiple defensive pressures to keep Fayetteville from gaining any offensive momentum.
“We knew that we had to come out and play competitive basketball,” said Giants assistant coach Jerry Williams. “They played really well.”
Jacksonville went on a scoring onslaught in the second quarter, as they outscored Fayetteville 45-24. The Giants went on a 12-2 run to start the quarter and did not look back. Chris Blake fascinated the crowd with a leaping steal which set up a slam dunk to Elijah Smith. RJ Smith, Rashad Faust, and newcomer Delwan Graham also made key plays prior to the halftime intermission.
“It was a great opportunity to see the younger guys play,” said Waters.
The second half became a slam dunk fest for the Giants. Blake and Smith showcased their acrobatic dunks during the third quarter, which entertained the local crowd. Bruce Brown also added a fourth quarter dunk. Jacksonville was unmatched and continued to have offensive success throughout the half.
The Giants now prepare for the postseason, which will begin in April at which time, they must cut their active roster to 14 players for the playoffs.
“Tomorrow we have to make some changes because we have to finalize the playoff roster,” said Williams.
Fayetteville’s Vincent Parnell had 34 points while Bryan Calloway added 27 for the Flight.