Volcanico VS CB Cidadela
The final regular season matchups began with an Achada Grande Volcanico rematch against CB Cidadela. Cidadela who were without Paris Collins and big man Zoran Talley in the first matchup came out firing off on all cylinders. Coming out in a 2-3 zone Cidadela developed quick and easy offense through a tough defensive front, creating havoc for front court tandem of Volcanico. However, the number two seeded Volcanico fought back through the punches going back and forth throughout the game. Juwan Stepney poured in a big 35 along with 27 from Nasir Core with hopes of bringing the team a win. However, it wasn’t enough to stop Zoran Talley who took advantage of a weaker interior defense and rebounding Volcanico team without Cameron Clark. Talley ended with 35 points to go along with a Paris Collins 26-point double-double, 95-82. Cidadela will go on to play in the first round of the playoffs against the Palmerajo Sharks as the Volcanico rest in the number 2 spot with a first round bye.
Plateau Warriors VS Achada Panthers
The second matchup of the day was between the number one seeded Plateau Warriors and last seeded Achada Panthers. The Panthers who were still chasing their first win of the season behind explosive guard tandem Nick Manor-Hall and Taras Carter, ran into a plethora of issues sparked by Cape Verdean role players. The Warrior's duo of Joshua York-Frazer and Andre Jackson was very quiet as they both sat big minutes while resting for the playoffs. The Warriors however, showed exactly how deep the bench is with Cape Verdean Talent. This game was a blowout from the tip off, with star role players like Luca Alves and Brady Fernandes pouring in double digit points. Combined with defensive intensity and the sharpshooting of A.B, who has rekindled his touch, the Warriors go on to demolish the Panthers. With some highlight moments Taras Carter put up a solid 25-point game while his counterpart Nick Manor-Hall left early with an ankle injury. However, it was clear that it wasn’t the Panthers day at all, falling 112-75.
Palmarejo Sharks VS Ponta D’Agua
The final game of the day is between two fan favorites and championship contenders as the Palmarejo Sharks take on the Ponta D’Agua Gorillas. In what would turn out to be a huge upset, the Gorillas had a late scratch of Shane De Rosa meaning the addition Rodriques Palmer who was originally resting for playoffs was needed. The Sharks came out flat on all levels of basketball while on the other side of the court the Gorillas were having an explosive game. The Gorillas did whatever they pleased against the Sharks as Palmer put up a 32-point triple double. The star of the night was not Palmer, instead 19-year-old Mario Williams shows that last game was no fluke as he pours in a staggering 50 points and 12 3-pointers. This high energy offense and explosive basketball lead to the Gorillas having their way with the Sharks beating them 102-72.
Kyler “KT” Thompson
Praia League Analyst