Giants Defy Guardians in 115-103 Road Win
Story by Matt Potak
The defending ABA Champion Jacksonville Giants used a strong defensive effort to defeat the San Diego Guardians 115-103. The win puts the Giants at 4-0 this season. The weekend series in San Diego was grueling but the defending champs persevered to finish the weekend with an undefeated record. The Giants would like to thank their fan base for all the positive social media posts during their west coast road trip. Throughout the weekend fans have posted positive comments both pre and post game.
“Team Defense is what got us through the back to back road games,” said coach Jerry Williams. “We are also very thankful for our Jacksonville community continuing to support the team.”
Newcomer Brent Williams led Jacksonville with a game high 26 points. Williams contribution to the Giants with strong shooting on both the inside and outside of the paint. Williams was able to get great opportunities from his teammates.
“Having such great teammates is a big part of me being able to get my shot off because they all require so much attention themselves,” said Williams.
Jacksonville started the game strong, maintaining a 53-42 halftime lead. Offensively, Williams landed five three pointers in the game, three of them in the first quarter. Williams early long range three pointers gave the Giant offense major momentum. Guards Dylon Cormier and Maurice Mickens also contributed with strong outside shooting.
Jacksonville kept the lead throughout the second half, but did slow down the offensive tempo. The Giants relied on closing the game out with strong defensive play from Bernard Nugent and Elijah Smith. Nugent and Smith both led the charge defensively to keep the Guardians from making a late comeback.
Giants vs Guardians Game Box
Star of the Game: Newcomer Brent Williams led the team with 26 points. Williams was virtually unstoppable on the court, at some points during the game Williams was double teamed and he still landed long range shots. Williams helped spark the offense and kept San Diego off guard.
Turning Point of the Game: The second half shooting from Williams, Mickens, and Cormier kept the lead within double digits. The extended lead ended any chance of a San Diego comeback.
On Defense: Bernard Nugent led the team with four steals. Elijah Smith and Jermaine Bell had three blocks each. Coach Jerry Williams praised his defense and credited them for winning both weekend road games.
Up Next: Next game is Tuesday, December 10th. The Giants will travel to Las Vegas to take on the Las Vegas Royals. The Giants Facebook page will keep you updated with scores and if the game will be streamed for live viewing.
Upcoming Home Games: After the Giants return home from their West Coast trip, they will be in action on Saturday, December 21st, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. against the 305 Ballers.
The Giants will celebrate their 2019 championship with Champions Night on Saturday, January 25, 2020, at the Veterans Memorial Arena where they will host a championship rematch and have their championship ring ceremony and banner unveiling.
Keep up to date with scores and highlights by liking and following the Jacksonville Giants Facebook page.
