PLAYOFFS RECAP: SEMIFINALS, GAME 2

Chaos Outlast Sun Kings in Overtime Thriller, 122–118, Behind Lindstrom’s Dominant 28

In a heart-pounding overtime showdown, the Los Angeles Chaos edged out the St. Louis Sun Kings 122–118 in a game packed with momentum swings and standout performances. The Chaos were led by the unstoppable Raymond Lindstrom, who poured in 28 points on an efficient 13-of-21 shooting, adding 4 assists and 5 rebounds to earn Player of the Game honors. The Sun Kings kept pace thanks to Clemente Gomez’s explosive 28-point effort off the bench, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Chaos’ balanced attack and clutch execution in the extra period. Los Angeles shot a sizzling 50% from the field and a perfect 8-of-16 from beyond the arc, while the Sun Kings struggled from deep, hitting just 26% of their threes. Despite out-rebounding the Chaos 45–44 and forcing 7 steals, St. Louis couldn’t capitalize at the free-throw line, converting only 65% of their attempts. Ultimately, the Chaos’ superior shooting and late-game composure sealed the win in this electrifying battle.  Chaos lead series 2-0.

Knights Crush Buzzards 122-92 Behind Hindman’s Heroics

In a dazzling display of offensive firepower, the London Knights steamrolled the Boston Buzzards 122-92, lighting up the scoreboard with a sizzling 60% shooting night. The Knights came out blazing, dropping 38 points in the first quarter and never looked back, building a 34-point halftime lead that left the Buzzards reeling. Nathan Hindman was electric, pouring in 31 points on 9-of-17 shooting, including 4-of-5 from deep and a near-perfect 9-of-10 from the line, earning him Player of the Game honors. He was flanked by a balanced attack, with Trevor Collin going a flawless 9-for-9 from the field for 20 points and Jonathan Howell adding 11 off the bench. The Knights dominated the glass 43-26 and dished out 28 assists, showcasing crisp ball movement and unselfish play. Meanwhile, the Buzzards struggled to find rhythm, committing 18 turnovers and allowing the Knights to control the tempo. James Jones led Boston with 19 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome London’s relentless efficiency. Ultimately, the Knights’ scorching shooting and depth proved too much, as they cruised to a statement win in front of their home crowd.  Knights lead series 2-0.

Thunderbirds Cruise Past Evolution 118-88 as Clarke Shines Bright

The Arizona Thunderbirds delivered a commanding performance on both ends of the court, cruising to a 118-88 win over the New Jersey Evolution. Michael Clarke was in top form, pouring in 27 points on an ultra-efficient 13-of-16 shooting night, earning him Player of the Game honors. Arizona came out strong, building a 62-48 lead by halftime and maintaining control throughout the game. The Thunderbirds’ offense was firing on all cylinders, connecting on 51.5% of their shots and tallying 29 assists, with floor general Manuel Hendershot dishing out 10 of them. Defensively, Arizona was just as impressive, forcing 26 turnovers and collecting 15 steals to keep New Jersey off balance. Despite solid contributions from Kelvin Penrod and Grady Tweedy, who each scored 16 points, the Evolution struggled from long range (25% from three) and couldn’t overcome their turnover woes. In the end, Arizona’s cohesive offense, stifling defense, and Clarke’s standout shooting proved too much to handle in this dominant win.  Thunderbirds lead series 2-0.

Invaders Slip Past Tritons 114-110 in Nail-Biter Fueled by Gaynor’s Versatile Excellence

In a fast-paced clash between two American Conference contenders, the Indiana Invaders narrowly defeated the Tampa Bay Tritons 114-110 in a contest brimming with energy and pivotal moments. Indiana surged ahead with a dominant third quarter, outpacing Tampa Bay 33-22, and managed to fend off a determined late rally. Jose Gaynor led the charge with an impressive all-around showing— scoring 23 points on an efficient 8-of-14 from the floor, including a flawless 4-for-4 from deep. He also added 7 assists and 5 rebounds, showcasing his well-rounded game. Ronald Beverly chipped in with a powerful double-double (22 points, 11 rebounds), while Chase Samons lit it up from long range with 20 points and 6 triples. On the Tritons’ side, David Fausel turned in a sensational performance, pouring in 31 points on a red-hot 10-of-12 shooting night. However, Indiana’s relentless effort on the glass and sharp shooting from beyond the arc—highlighted by 17 made threes and 19 offensive boards—ultimately tipped the scales in their favor in this tightly contested battle.  Series tied 1-1.