Basketball

Brachon Griffin of Cantho Catfish (No 22) jumps to score during the VBA match between the Catfish and HCM City Wings on June 27 in Hà Nội. The Catfish won 78-66. — Photo courtesy of VBA

HÀ NỘI — The Cantho Catfish won their second match of the 2023 VBA season beating the HCM City Wings 78-66 in game 18 on June 27 in Hà Nội.

After his poor performance in the VBA debut three days ago, American Brachon Griffin proved why he was the most valuable player of the Indonesian league before coming to Việt Nam as he shone brilliantly pushing the Catfish back to a winning path.

It was the first meeting of the two sides this season and also the last match of the Wings in the tournament's first stage at Cầu Giấy Gymnasium.

Earlier, the Wings had two wins and three losses, placing them fifth in the standings. Meanwhile, the Catfish were one step below with only one win and three defeats and with one match left to play.

The Catfish created a lot of challenges for the Wings from the beginning. Coach Jordan Collins asked his rapid defenders to keep close eyes on the Wings' star Jeremy Smith who played a key role in the team's performance. At the same time, the Catfish played in defence, giving no respite for the Wings forwards to dig in.

The tactic worked effectively in the first two quarters in which Smith could only score from a free throw, leading to the Wings' poor performance in the front line.

On the other side, the Catfish were full of energy opening tireless attacks led by Griffin, who under the strong assist of DeAngelo Hamilton, scored 20 points helping his new club lead 43-26 by halftime.

In the second half, Tân Hải Đăng tried his best to collect points for the Wings, helping to narrow the gap 43-32 but the Catfish did not let him complete the mission. Michael Soy and his teammates answered with a series of 12 points to make it 55-35.

Being in the safe zone with a gap of 20 points, the Catfish reduced their pace and were back in defence which made all effort from the Wings useless.

The game wrapped up with a win at 78-66 for the Catfish.

Griffin, who recorded a double-double of 34 points and 11 rebounds was Player of the Game.

Amir Williams was the best on the Wings' side with 22 points and 17 rebounds.

In the next match on June 30, the Catfish will see defending champions Saigon Heat.

The Wings ended their first stage and will return home to prepare for the second stage starting on July 8. — VNS