Match Report: Nationals 2015 - Guys vs SRJC

Clementi Sports Hall, Thursday, April 30, 2015 – It was the last group game for us and we set out determined to finish the first round strong. We kicked off the game with an early lead through numerous fast break points as well as drives to the basket. We continued pushing the offensive tempo, sinking several threes and keeping up the tight defense in the second quarter to finish the first half with a 23 point lead.

However, the start of the third quarter saw a drop in intensity from our side. Our defense was slow and our rebounding careless, resulting in SRJC securing many offensive rebounds and second chance points. On the offensive end, we could not convert our threes and committed many turnovers in our attempts to move the ball forward quickly. Momentum continued to swing towards SRJC as they kept up their hardwork and airtight defense. Albeit we managed to convert a few layups off fast breaks, we eventually fell 9-10 in the third quarter.

In the fourth, we went got our act together and starting putting more effort on both ends of the court. We managed to keep our hands active on defense, resulting in steals which led to easy baskets at the offensive end. Jovi was the main contributor to the game, dropping 21 points to help the team achieve a 71-27 win against SRJC.

Our lackluster performance in the third quarter gave us a wake-up call, reminding us to step up for the next few games. In the second round, we will face tougher opponents NYJC, Dunman High, and NJC, hence it is even more important that we stay focused and never be complacent no matter what the score may be.