Basketball

HÀ NỘI — Thang Long Warriors defeated Cantho Catfish 73-68 in the second game of the final of the Việt Nam Basketball Association (VBA) League in Hà Nội on November 23.

Earlier, Cantho Catfish defeated Thang Long Warriors 83-78 in the first game, so before entering this match, the Warriors were determined to make every effort to win this game.

Like game one held several days ago, the host Warriors opened the score with an accurate shot by Jaywuan Hill, following which the visiting side bounced back strongly and took the lead.

With only 11 seconds to end in the first period, the gap between the two sides was 10 points (11-21) in favour of the Catfish. However, with a three-point throw, Trương Hoàng Trung narrowed the gap to 14-21 for the hosts. Trung’s shot greatly lifted the spirits of the Warriors.

In the second quarter, the hosts played better and scored another 22 points, while the visitors only scored another 13 points, so the hosts won this quarter with the score at 36-34.

With the advantage in the second period, the Warriors continued to play well in the next stage with a great performance by Hill. Although, the Catfish once again showed their experience and skills and Dư Minh An played outstandingly, the team still lost to the Warriors 51-57.

In the last quarter, Nguyễn Hoàng Tú helped the Catfish lead 67-66. However, Justin Young appeared in time and scored five points continuously to help the Warriors win the game with the score at 73-68.

This victory helped the Warriors level the score to 1-1 in the final round, making the race for the event’s title become more and more interesting.

The final’s third game will be held at Cần Thơ Gymnasium on November 26. — VNS