St. Petersburg, FL – The Jacksonville Giants continued their strong start to the season Sunday, December 3rd, with a superb 118-79 road win over the St. Petersburg Tide. The Giants improve to 4-0 on the season and have won 26 straight games dating back to December 2016. The Giants will have one more road trip next weekend before the home opener on Friday, December 15, 2017.
“I was happy with the attitude of our team tonight,” said head coach Jerry Williams.
Jacksonville dominated the first half taking a 58-33 halftime lead. Not only did the offense play sound but the defense played very physical, shutting down the Tide’s offense. Center Jermaine “Slim” Bell and forward Jerrod “The Captain” Tucker were tough in the middle, forcing multiple St. Petersburg turnovers. Defensively the Giants played at a rapid pace, which made St. Pete play tentative throughout the game.
“We had key stops on defense and the energy off the bench was amazing, I’m super proud of the team,” said Williams.
Offensively the Giants were led by guard Bernard Nugent. Nugent, who was also a powerhouse on defense, led the Giants with a game high 17 points. Other offensive scoring leaders included Maurice Mickens who had 14 points and Dylon Cromier with 12 points. Jacksonville used a ball controlled tempo strategy to keep the Tide guessing.
“Everyone played very comfortable today,” said Cromier.
The Giants never trailed in the second half and maintained great composure playing with the lead. The bench play was crucial throughout the game. All of the Giants’ players continued to contribute throughout the game.
“This was a great team win and effort,” said Tucker.
Added assistant coach Marcus Thomas, “Solid overall play! We dominated on the defensive side and the guys really pushed each other.”
The Giants will be on the road next weekend to take on the Pensacola Lightning before returning to Jacksonville for the home opener on Friday, December 15, 2017.
The 4-time ABA National Champion Jacksonville Giants begin their 8th Season and will celebrate “Championship Night” at their home opener on Friday, December 15th, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. This 2017 Final Four rematch against the Mobile Bay Tornados will be a game worth seeing. The Giants outscored the Tornados in the semi-finals of the 2017 playoffs by a slim margin of 109 to 107. The Tornados will be looking to even the score.
Get your season tickets today at www.jacksonvillegiants.com or by calling 904-355-6531.
MR. Biggs Birthday Bash
Looking for the perfect spot to throw your son or daughter’s birthday party this year?! Why not let the Giants help you make it unforgettable. Make your birthday girl or boy feel like an ALL-STAR with MR. Biggs Birthday Bash package.
Package Includes:
•Meet the players before game time.
•Designated Party area visit from MR. Biggs
•Birthday Girl/Boy will have the opportunity to “high-five” the players.
•Name of the Birthday Girl/Boy displayed on the Jumbo Tron during the game.
•An autographed souvenir basketball for the Birthday Girl/Boy.
For more information contact one of our Party Specialists at the Giants office: 904-355-6531 or go to MR. Biggs Birthday Bash.