Tuesday, September 05, 2017
Manchester Magic began their pre-season campaign with a battling 58-55 win over USA Select at the Amaechi Basketball Centre on Monday night.
Deng Camp star Michael Anumba top-scored for the home side with 15 points, adding 2 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals, while Lee Goldsbrough weighed in with 12 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal.
It was also a good night for Loreto College teenager Wesley Oba, who wowed the home fans with two big blocks. Another Magic teenager, Arinze Emeka-Anyakwo, played almost 11 minutes, converting two free throws.
Magic dominated the first half, building up a 16-point lead in front of a vocal crowd.
But that advantage was completely wiped out in the third quarter as the American tourists took it 17-0 with some strong pressing.
Both teams could have taken the win but it was Magic who came out on top in the first of four warm-up games for Paul Middleton's side.
Their next outing is against Boroughmuir Blaze from Edinburgh at the ABC on Friday at 8pm.