GDB wins season opener by blocking out Suns

Game Summary

Tip off night in City of Alexandria featured strong performances by leading contenders this season, but it was the defending champs who closed out the show with a great all around performance. After the typical slow start to winter league (9-9 after the first 10 minutes). The GDB crew found their groove and went on one of their patented runs in which five different Ballers scored. too hard to guard on one end and too much D on the other gave Green Dot a lead they would not relinquish, cruising to a 59-37 win.

Chris Larson (#5) knocks down the 3 pointer as part of a 15-5 run to take control in the first half

Headlines

Defense starts strong - The earlier games on opening night featured three of the four teams scoring 60+ points. The Ballers showed that defense could be a difference maker holding the Suns under 20 points in both halves. With the size across the front line and active guards up top, Suns out with through multiple stretches where they could not get a good look at the basket and if they did it was one and done. Something to keep an eye on as the season progresses.

(oprah voice) You get a bucket and you get a bucket! The Green Dot crew displayed a quick chemistry for sharing the ball, especially for the first game of winter session. While there was some initial rust to knock off, the Ballers came together to consistently find the open man. They registered helpers on 10 of their first 11 baskets on the way to 20 assists on 23 baskets for the game, with Chris Larson leading the way (7 assists). By the end of the game everyone had either had a field goal, assist or both. All features of a classic Green Dot offense.

Run it back for real this time Keonte Dennis first entered Baller lore with his clutch performance in the Summer League championship game. After being drafted last summer, he was not able to come to terms in time to play in the season. However a last minute callup for the championship game was worked out and he played a key role in the win. This time Dennis is back for the full season and showing right away why he was so important for the Ballers to sign him. Scoring inside and out he finished with 9 points, 2 assists and strong defense inside.

Even Baller Alumni were handing out assists GDB Alum Sam Sturgis answered the scouting call by referring his good pal Tony Wroblicky and the big man did not disappoint! He quickly showed his fit with the squad, anchoring the defense and scoring 10 points. A great debut to add depth to the frontcourt.

Things are looking up for GDB as they add what might be the steal of the draft in #8 Tony Wroblicky (6' 10").

MVP

Cam Wade - Got the team off to a great start in the first half with 10 points, then turned into a playmaker in the second half with 9 more points and 5 assists. Fantastic all around game for the GDB first year breakout player.

Honorable Mention - Will Harris III Was a pleasant surprise as a late confirm for the lineup, but he missed out on a 20 point game due to missed layups and free throws. Maybe next time!!!

Up Next

Self Check (0-0) 9:00pm - Self Check had the first bye as the late minute addition to the schedule.

Highlights