Photography by Gary Lloyd McCullough.

Photography by Gary Lloyd McCullough.

The Jacksonville Giants won their fifth straight game in a decisive, 147-85, win over the South Coast Fire. The Giants’ recent success helps them approach the number one spot in the ABA Power Rankings. The Giants are still in contention for a first-round bye in the playoffs, which start in several weeks. Jacksonville will now turn their attention to an upcoming weekend series with the Fayetteville Flight on March 5th and 6th.

Dazeran “Duke” Jones (26 points) and Bruce Brown (24 points) led the Giants in scoring as the two combined for 50 points in the evening. The 26 points was a season-high for Jones, while Brown’s 24 points was also a season-high. Both players used size, speed, and athleticism to keep the Flight off balance. Newcomers Shedrick Haynes and Delwin Graham also had key contributions on the evening for the Giants. Haynes had 18 points and Graham had 16 points.

Despite the lopsided win, South Coast battled tough in the early stages of the game. Jacksonville concluded the first quarter with only a 29-22 lead. However, the Giants went on a 40-16 run in the second quarter to take a 69-38 halftime lead. The 31 point lead demoralized the Fire going into the third quarter. Jacksonville continued an aggressive defense and a fast tempo offense in the second half.

The Giants outscored South Coast 41-23 in the third quarter. Brown’s inside presence was just too much for the Fire while Jones was impressive with his shooting. The defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers for South Coast which helped Jacksonville extend the lead.