Scorchers go back-to-back heading into the final game of the season after suffering a heavy defeat last night in Bristol.
The story all season with Scorchers has been injury troubles and this would continue as after a big performance against Bristol Devin Thomas picks up an injury which would see the team play without any Americans on court.
Before the game Coach Creon shared some heart felt words and thanked the fans who have continued to show support throughout this difficult season.
The ball goes up and Sheffield control the tip as Koch knocks down a midrange jumper to open the scoring. With a depleted squad and no bigs on the floor Scorchers begin the game in a zone to protect the paint.
Lacking some fire power on offense Sharks jump out to a 2 – 13 lead before Captain Tayo finds a corner 3-pointer.
With Scorchers trailing the game the difference between the sides can be seen in the paint. The size of Sheffield dominates the glass as the home side struggle to match up finishing the quarter 14 – 24 in favour of the Sharks.
Henry Wilkins a sparks energy onto the floor bringing a defensive presence and aggression on defence.
Young Scorchers Adam Riabi and Ryan Gannicleft both start the 2nd quarter gaining great exposure against a top side in Sheffield. There work rate not faulted but Sharks increase their lead to 15.
Scorchers find some range from deep as Wilkins knocks down his second 3 of the night and McLemore adds one of his own.
Wanliss, although underside being Scorchers only forward is unable to stay in the game as he finds himself in foul trouble. Sheffield continues to finish and stay in control heading into the locker room with a 34 – 49 lead.
Scorchers start the 2nd half in zone, Sheffield work the ball around until Nicholls finds the string from beyond the arc. Glasgow Jr adds another, and Sheffield extend their lead to 20 points.
Scorchers work the ball on offense and play with more patience. With the ball moving side to side McLemore finds some open space to knock one down.
Former Scorchers Joe Mvuzolo steps up in the quarter getting out on the fast break and keeping the energy high for the Sharks. He would finish his night with a season high 15-points.
Wanliss who has been in foul trouble all game finally picks up his 5th and would make his way to the bench for the last time this season. A big applause from the crowd as the only Scorcher to play all games this season.
Scorchers start the 4th quarter strong behind makes from deep for Riabi and Caylin to get the game under 20 points.
With the defence elevated from the home side and the full roar from the fans Sheffield are forced to call a time out to put a halt to the Scorchers run as the game is within 14 points with 4 minutes to go.
Mclemore displays his scoring ability in the 4th where he would finish with 17 points on the night. With not enough time in the game the Sharks use as much of the clock as possible on offense to close out the game and end Scorchers 2021/22 season with a 14-point loss.
Final Score 69 – 83
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