Nets coast to victory over the Thunder
Published 11:02 am Wednesday, January 22, 2014
The Nets of the 13-15 boys Washington Youth Basketball League defeated the Thunder on Tuesday, 51-24.
“We played so-so,” said Nets Head Coach Carlton Barr. “It was a lot better than the other night. You can’t take any team for granted.”
The Nets zone defense expanded the lead early by forcing a slew of turnovers in the first half. Precision passing by the guards broke down the Thunder press and propelled the Nets to a 14-0 run to start the game.
Floor leader JaQuise Jones was heavily guarded and scored just six points, but was able to create space and dish to Quashawn Gaynor and Raeguoen Harris in the paint.
“I told [Jones] that every night is not going to be your night, you need to get the big men more involved. A lot of people they key in him being the more dominant player on our team, I said when they’re keying in on you, go ahead and get the other players more involved.”
Jones took coach’s advice, as the Nets amassed a comfortable 28-6 lead heading into halftime, one they would never relinquish.
Gaynor and Braxton Rhome continued to burn the Thunder in transition and drive to the basket. Thunder guard Trevon Corpew tried to create space and get his teammates involved, but couldn’t chip away at the Nets commanding lead.
Harris finished with a game-high 16 points, while Garnor ended with 15.
The Nets match up against the Lakers on Saturday at 4 p.m., while the Thunder try to redeem themselves against the Mavericks at 3 p.m.