Clarke Fuels Thunderbirds to 106-97 Win Over Knights
In a high-octane clash that saw momentum swing like a pendulum, the Arizona Thunderbirds surged past the London Knights 106-97, thanks to a dazzling performance from Michael Clarke, who poured in 23 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 8 assists to earn Player of the Game honors. The Thunderbirds trailed at halftime but erupted in the second half, outscoring the Knights 58-45 behind crisp ball movement and timely three-point shooting. Clarke was flanked by John Bigler (19 points) and Doyle Wagoner (20 points), while the team collectively shot a sharp 46.6% from the field and nailed 10 triples. Despite a monster 35-point, 13-rebound effort from Kenneth Dozier, the Knights faltered due to poor free throw shooting (just 60.9%) and a lack of bench production. Arizona’s superior depth, ball distribution (31 assists), and defensive intensity in the second half proved to be the difference in this electrifying showdown. Thunderbirds lead series 2-0.
Wood’s Heroics Power Chaos Past Invaders in 112-109 Thriller
In a nail-biting showdown that came down to the final possessions, Darrick Wood lit up the scoreboard and the stat sheet, leading the Los Angeles Chaos to a thrilling 112-109 victory over the Indiana Invaders. Wood was electric, dropping 19 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including five clutch three-pointers, while also grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists to earn Player of the Game honors. The Chaos offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting a sizzling 48.5% from the field and a scorching 46.4% from deep, with Brandon Wells (21 points, 7 assists) and Raymond Lindstrom (20 points, 12 boards) providing key support. Despite a valiant effort from Ronald Beverly (22 points, 8 rebounds) and a strong bench showing from David Kidder (16 points), the Invaders couldn’t overcome their defensive lapses and were out-rebounded 53-43. The Chaos’ dominance on the glass and superior ball movement (26 assists) proved decisive in a game that was as intense as it was entertaining. Chaos lead series 2-0.