Buzzards Rise Above Knights 102-93 Behind Robinson’s Dominant Performance
In a thrilling clash of NatEast Division titans, the Boston Buzzards outpaced the London Knights 102-93, thanks to a commanding third-quarter surge and a standout performance from power forward Nathanael Robinson. The Buzzards trailed by five at halftime but erupted for 34 points in the third, flipping the script with relentless energy and sharp execution. Robinson was a force on both ends, scoring 18 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting while adding 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks to earn Player of the Game honors. Don McDaniel chipped in 22 points and 7 boards, while Darwin Sabin added a double-digit scoring punch off the bench. Boston’s depth and rebounding dominance (53-37) proved decisive, as they out-muscled the Knights on the glass and shot a blistering 89.5% from the free-throw line. Despite a valiant 24-point effort from London’s Nathan Hindman and 22 from Bryant Walsh, the Knights couldn’t overcome their 16 turnovers and cold shooting from deep (3-of-11). The Buzzards’ balanced attack and second-half intensity sealed a statement win in this heavyweight showdown. Knights lead series 3-1.
Thunderbirds Edge Evolution 112-107 Despite Weathers’ Scorching 36-Point Effort
In a fast-paced and fiercely contested matchup, the Arizona Thunderbirds narrowly defeated the New Jersey Evolution 112-107 in a game filled with dramatic shifts and standout individual efforts. Jamaal Weathers was electric for New Jersey, pouring in an impressive 36 points on an ultra-efficient 15-of-22 shooting night. However, it was Arizona’s well-rounded offense and poise at the free-throw line that ultimately made the difference. Ben Toy anchored the Thunderbirds in the paint with a strong 20-point, 7-rebound performance, while veteran guard Wilbert Slayton provided a crucial lift off the bench, tallying 14 points and converting 7 of his 8 free throws. After a sluggish opening quarter, Arizona flipped the script with a dominant 32-19 second quarter to grab the momentum. New Jersey made a spirited push in the final frame, but Arizona’s depth and composure under pressure — highlighted by 27 made free throws — helped them hold on. The Thunderbirds’ tenacious defense also played a key role, forcing 16 turnovers and swatting away 12 shots to disrupt the Evolution’s rhythm. Although Weathers earned Player of the Game honors for his stellar outing, it was Arizona’s collective effort and timely execution that carried them to a hard-fought win. Thunderbirds win series 4-0.
Tritons Outlast Invaders in OT Thriller, 105-103 – Fry Ignites with 26 Points
In a gripping overtime battle, the Tampa Bay Tritons narrowly defeated the Indiana Invaders 105-103 in a contest brimming with intensity, resilience, and memorable moments. Shooting guard Jerome Fry lit up the scoreboard with 26 points on an impressive 12-of-17 shooting performance, earning him top honors as Player of the Game. Center Herman Winslow was a powerhouse down low, racking up 28 points and pulling down 14 rebounds — 7 of them on the offensive glass — providing Tampa Bay with key second-chance opportunities. Indiana’s Chase Samons kept things close with a sharpshooting display, knocking down 7 triples and finishing with 23 points, but the Invaders struggled with overall efficiency, shooting just 39.6% from the floor. The Tritons’ edge on the boards (57-50) and their strong presence in the paint ultimately tipped the scales, helping them fend off a late Indiana rally in this tightly contested American East Division matchup. Series tied 2-2.
Sun Kings Hold Off Chaos, 116-111 Behind Gooden’s Stellar Showing
In a fast-paced battle that had fans holding their breath until the final buzzer, the St. Louis Sun Kings narrowly defeated the Los Angeles Chaos 116-111, fueled by a standout performance from center Antoine Gooden. Gooden was sensational on both ends of the court, tallying 24 points on an impressive 11-of-17 shooting, along with 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and an eye-popping 6 blocks to earn Player of the Game honors. The Sun Kings showcased a well-rounded offensive effort, with Clemente Gomez pouring in 25 points and Ambrose Vela contributing a double-double of 20 points and 11 boards. St. Louis also controlled the glass with a 49-40 rebounding advantage and swatted away 10 shots as a team, making their presence felt in the paint. Despite a determined 31-point outing from Chaos big man Raymond Lindstrom and 20 points from Raimundo Vazquez, Los Angeles struggled with ball security (15 turnovers) and endured a tough shooting night from Brandon Wells, who went just 3-of-13 from the field. In the end, the Sun Kings’ dominance inside and steady free throw shooting (19-of-26) proved to be the difference in this thrilling matchup. Chaos lead series 3-1.
