Story by Matt Potak
The defending ABA National Champion Jacksonville Giants defeated the Glades Stampede, 117-99, on Sunday afternoon. The Giants played an off-site game at Trinity Christian Academy in front of the local fan base. The win puts Jacksonville at 20-1 this season.
The game started intense with a close 24-23 Giant lead in the first quarter. Both teams went back and forth in a very competitive game. The Giants went on a second quarter rally, outscoring the Glades 34-14. The strong second quarter surge was the difference in the win.
Offensively Jacksonville had six players score in double digits on the afternoon. Former ECU and Missouri standout Miguel Paul led the Giants with a team high 27 points. Elijah “Superman” Smith had 23 points with, former NBA D League Star, Aaron Bowen adding 15 to round out the scoring leaders. Smith energized the crowd with multiple slam dunks while Paul kept up the enthusiasm with long range three pointers.
Defensively the Giants were just as strong, keeping the Stampede under 100 points. As a team Jacksonville posted 11 steals, three blocks, and 46 total rebounds. Smith had 11 rebounds with League MVP Maurice Mickens contributing with five steals. Smiths 11 rebounds gave him a double double on the afternoon.
Advanced Diagnostic Group Giants vs Stampede Box Score
Star of the Game: Elijah “Superman” Smith had a double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds. The former University of North Georgia Star played lights out during the game.
Turning Point: The Giants went on a second quarter rally, outscoring the Glades 34-14. The powerful second quarter run was the difference in the win.