by: Charleston Gladden

On Thursday, May 25, Belmopan Bandits hosted Game 2 of the NEBL Finals against their rivals from out at sea, San Pedro Tiger Sharks, in their most important game of the season; whether to keep their championship hopes alive and fight another day on enemy grounds or to end their season at home with a bitter ending. While San Pedro Tiger Sharks are looking to close out the series on enemy grounds and obtain their 3rd championship in four years.

Belmopan Bandits were on the attack from the tip and having a commanding lead through the first quarter, but San Pedro Tiger Sharks were right behind them and taking advantage of the early fouls opportunity and cutting their deficit down to one with the score at 20 – 19. While in the second quarter, Belmopan Bandits extended their lead once again, but once again their lead evaporated with careless passing and San Pedro Tiger Sharks’ tightfisted defense also giving them a small 34 – 31 lead going into halftime. During the third quarter, both teams turned up their

intensity with baskets exchanging with every possession. Until the final minute of that quarter, Belmopan were able to tie up and hold a tiny lead going into the fourth. Throughout the final quarter, Belmopan Bandits dominated and were up by nine points. That wasn’t going to let San Pedro put their heads down, as they went to their sharpshooter, Douglas Valley, and erupted for eight straight points and keeping their hopes alive. Unfortunately that wasn’t the case, for Belmopan Bandits was lifted by their superstar, Devin Daly, and cruised his team with a victory with a score of 81 – 73.

Player of the game goes to Devin Daly of Belmopan Bandits finishing with a game high of 26 points alongside 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Key players for Belmopan Bandits were Farron Louriano with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Gregory Rudon chipped in with 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. Edgar Mitchell contributed with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Top players for San Pedro Tiger Sharks were George Williams with 21 points. Douglas Valley finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Kirk Burgess tallied with 11 points and 9 rebounds. Also, Jamal Kelly chipped in with 11 points and 6 assists coming off the bench.