Match Report: Nationals 2015 - Quarter Finals Guys vs Nanyang JC

Justin with an open look

The game with Nanyang Junior College kicked off with a strong drive by Vignesh along the baseline giving us the first 2 points of the game. During Q1, we managed to get open with good ball movement in 3 point range but we were unable to convert. However, due to gaps in defense and unnecessary fouls, NYJC managed to steal a small lead by the end of the first quarter. We were down 9-5 at the end of the first.

Vignesh going up high for the rebound

However, a tighter defense, better ball movement and strong runs managed to help us get back our momentum. Good defense prevented our opponents from getting to the basket and coupled with them committing several mistakes, we slowly regained our confidence and went on a 12-4 run, bringing the score to 17-13 in our favour. However, gaps within our defense allowed the opponent to score several baskets and we ended the quarter with a 1 point lead, 20-19.

The third quarter was when we truly displayed what we are capable of. Good communication, helping on the weak side, rebounding and quick transition offense managed to put some daylight between us and our opponents. We also managed to get several fouls and free throws which we were able to convert. However, our opponents were not ready to give up just yet and were able to match our efforts with strong drives by their no.7 and no.8 players. We exchanged leads several times and the game went back and forth for a long stretch. By the last few minutes, a few strong layups by Joel managed to help us have a 4 point lead over NYJC.

Helpside Defense came to the fore

The fourth quarter was basically a replay of our strong performance in the third as our ball movement created good plays whilst communication and help side on the defense created even more opportunities for us. We had small runs during the quarter and it was in the fourth that we started to outshine our opponents, having a comfortable 10 points lead over NYJC. The opponents resorted to 3 point attempts but their efforts were futile and we emerged winners, winning 53-41.