 Chris Crumpler IslandStats.com
The Bermuda Men’s National Basketball Select team kicked of their Canada tour against hometown favorites, the Niagara Knights.
The first half started with stiff hard-nosed defense from both teams. As the offense opened up, Niagara found success cutting and driving to the basket while Bermuda kept pace by shooting sharp from the outside.
Co-Captain Chris Crumpler was especially deadly from long distance hitting three 3’s in the opening minutes. As the half wore on Bermuda found it tough to match the much younger and fitter Knights as they opened up a ten point lead, 30 – 20.
However, in the final three and a half minutes Bermuda caught its second wind. Savvy veteran experience paid dividends as they went on a run with Co-Captain Jason Lowe pouring in 9 quick points and Bermuda taking a 33 – 32 lead. Nevertheless, Niagara fought back and scored a couple buckets late to head into half time up 37 – 33.
The second half started a bit like the first with both teams playing tough defense. However, Niagara found their offensive groove in transition as they pushed the pace of the game and scored quickly. The pace of the game proved to be a problem for Bermuda as their fitness was put to the test.
Bermuda struggled to find their offensive groove as heavy legs and lack of breeze plagued the older Bermuda team. Niagara continued to push the ball and opened up a ten point lead.
Bermuda fought back scoring a few baskets in transition of their own, but struggled to find the mark from distance. Niagara conversely dialed in and knocked down 3 after 3 putting more distance between their fatigued visitors.
Bermuda eventually found its rhythm from deep knocking down a few long balls but it was too little too late. Niagara Knights eventually cruised to a 75 – 57 victory.
Crumpler was high scorer for Bermuda scoring 17 points, Lowe had 14 and Stevey Brown-Darrell chipped in with 10.
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