The weather outside was frigid in Northeast Florida. However, the reigning ABA Champions turned on the heat indoors with a strong, 145-97, win over the Clermont Crocs. The team showcased another strong offensive and defensive effort in the contest. The victory was Jacksonvilles eighth straight win. A near sellout crowd featured fans from the Scott Jones School of Dance and the Arc Village Residence with their Special Olympics Basketball team.
Jacksonville once again showed why they are the ABAs elite. The Giants were pushed by the Crocs, but always prevailed when the pressure rose. The first quarter was a back and forth battle with both teams playing elite defense. The Giants took a 20-17 lead after the first quarter but the 37 total points between both teams was low because of the defensive pressure. Clermont’s Kenny Long, Cody Hoeth, and CJ Williams helped lead the way. However, Jacksonville made key adjustments.
Coach Tucker had the Giants playing solid and explosive basketball throughout the second quarter. Jacksonville got back to their fast and furious style of play. Maurice Mickens, Elijah Smith, and Chuck McRoy got a spark of energy going into the second quarter.
Jacksonville went on cruise control and took a commanding 58-39 lead going into halftime. Larry Dumas was the Giants leading scorer with 36 points. Dumas helped provide a spark on the offensive side of the ball with strong outside shooting. Dumas, Chuck McRoy, and Miguel Paul rounded out the scoring leaders for Jacksonville.
Elijah Smith showed why he is nicknamed “Superman.” The 6’10 center had four explosive slam dunks in the game. The dunks sounded like thunder in the building. Chuck McRoy and Brandon Davis landed some long range three pointers to close out the half, which added to the Giants lead. The Giants successfully made 20 three pointers on the night.
Jacksonville will now turn their attention to next weeks showdown with the St. Augustine Glory. For more information on the Giants game schedule please check out www.jacksonvillegiants.com. Jacksonvilles next home game will be at the UNF Arena on Saturday, February 12 at 6pm. The game will feature a pregame party with Jax Party Central.
Baileys Gym Giants vs Clermont Game Box
Star of the Game: Larry Dumas was impressive. The point guard led Jacksonville with a team high 36 points and was the game MVP. Dumas shot 50% from three point land.
Turning Point: Jacksonville went on a 21-5 second quarter run. The dynamic plays from Paul, Mickens, and Hornsby plays were too much for Clermont to overcome.
On Defense: Coach Tucker praised his teams defensive performance. The Giants held Clermont to a season low 97 points. Smith and Aaron Bowen were major factors in the low scoring.