Scorchers kept their play-off hopes alive with a crucial 77-73 victory over Manchester Giants at Surrey Sports Park on Sunday afternoon.
Creon Raftopoulos’ side entered the match following back-to-back defeats during the week, but they battled hard against their play-off rivals to seal a third straight home success.
Martelle McLemore top-scored with 17 points overall as he led Scorchers’ second-half fight back after they found themselves trailing by seven points at the interval.
It was an even start between the two sides with Tony Hicks and Dean Wanliss both netting three-pointers to ensure Scorchers trailed by just one point at the end of the first quarter.
Giants then stepped up a gear as they opened up a 26-33 lead by half-time, with Cameron Hildreth’s excellent solo effort representing Scorchers’ best moment in a tough quarter.
Scorchers returned from the break with a spring in their step as they managed to bring the match to level terms at 42-42 midway through the third quarter.
This was fuelled by some neat finishes from Evan Walshe, a stylish hook-shot from Emondre Rickman and a trio of superb triples from McLemore.
This meant Scorchers entered the final quarter trailing by just three points, with Evan Walshe and Tayo Ogedengbe both scoring to bring the match level just seconds later.
Hicks and McLemore then both impressed during some big plays in the closing stages to help Scorchers move into the ascendency.
Walshe scored a precious three-pointer before Hildreth’s two-point layup helped create a cushion for Scorchers as they eventually sealed a stunning four-point victory.
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