Basketball

Amir Williams (No 25) played a key role in HCM City Wings' 91-78 win over Danang Dragons on June 24 in Hà Nội. Photo of VBA

HÀ NỘI — Danang Dragons suffered their fifth defeat in a row after losing 78-91 to HCM City Wings on June 24 in Hà Nội.

Both teams have struggled in the 2023 VBA season as they attempt to gain better positions in the first stage which was organised in a centralised format at the Cầu Giấy Gymnasium.

The Dragons were sat bottom after four losses while the Wings were just one place higher with only one win so far this season.

The Dragons started the stronger creating more attempts and led in the first three minutes but their determination was not enough to keep the lead longer.

The Wings quickly fought back. Amir Williams, the tallest foreigner in VBA at 2.11m, met no difficulties stealing the ball and scoring a series of points in the from under the basket for the Sài Gòn-based team. His three-pointers were also highlights of the game.

His outstanding performance also inspired his teammates.

Star Jeremy Smith was given much space when the Dragons paid all attention to Williams. He earned 17 points within 17 minutes of the first two quarters.

The Dragons were in a blow-out situation as they led 49-26 at halftime.

Coach Todd Purves of the Dragons tried his best to improve his team's play. But it was another bad day as Jermaine Marrow and Yevgen Sakhniuk were watched closely and isolated, having few chances to shine.

Williams Trần was called up but he was unable to make a change having only one successful shot in a total of seven attempts.

The only highlight of the Dragons was youngster Nguyễn Anh Kiệt who shouldered most of the team's attempts and scored 16 points and four assists.

The Wings maintained their lead of 68-51 at the end of the third quarter. They wrapped up the game at 91-78 to end their losing streak in their last match of the first stage.

Williams who scored 29 points, 24 rebounds and two blocks was named Player of the Game.

The Dragons are now in deeper trouble, losing all five games. In the next fixture, they play Nha Trang Dolphins on June 28. VNS