A fourth quarter blitz propelled the Washington-based DC Jammers Basketball Club to a 74-69 come-from-behind win over Ravens when the four-match Goodwill series commenced Saturday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Trailing 50-61 with 8:26s remaining in front of a large gathering, Keron McKenzie started the comeback by nailing consecutive three pointers along with a layup from Lancelot Loncke to go on an 8-0 run which cut the deficit to a mere three points (58-61) with 6:17s remaining.
Ravens wrestled back control of the contest following a 4-0 run with 5:40s remaining to lead 65-58. However, the visitors retook the lead for the first time in the period at 66-65 compliments of a 7-1 run which was highlighted by two three-pointers from Rodney Mickens with 3:20s remaining.
It was at this point that the local side collapsed as Jammers grounded out the result compliments of an 8-4 burst by constantly attacking the rim and getting to the free-throw line.
Semaj Inge top scored for the visitors with 21 points while McKenzie and Mickens scored 12 and 10 points respectively. For Ravens, Jermin Slater and Nikkoloi Smith each
scored 13 points while Stephney netted 12 points.
Prior to the comeback, Jammers claimed the early lead as they outscored Ravens 18-16 by the end of the first period. Inge recorded eight points while Glenn Stokes netted three points.
On the other side, Jermin Slater battled to six points while guest player Travis Burnett and Dominic Vincente scored four points each. The second period saw the visitors extending their advantage as they outshot Ravens 18-15 to lead 36-31 at the half time interval.
Senay once again top scored with six points while Mickens chipped in with five points. For Ravens, Burnett claimed four points while Ryan Gullen assisted with three points.
The momentum then changed sides in the pivotal third period as Ravens took the lead 55-50 after out-hustling Jammers 24-14. Stephney led the way with eight points while Slater and Vincent scored six and four points apiece while McKenzie and Inge scored six and four points respectively. Meanwhile, in the exhibition fixture, Georgetown Technical Institute blew away the Bishops’ High School 92-47.
Today the Jammers will play Pacesetters at the same venue and will end their tour against current Road to Mecca Champions Colts on Saturday.
All clubs will be allowed to use three guest players in the matches against the American team. Admission to the matches are slated for $1000. DC Jammers are expected to depart local shores on May 29th.
