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By Samuel Peters
The MDBA Summer Invitational showcased some exciting fixtures semi-final action on Day 3, with contrasting performances setting up the championship finale and bronze medal showdown.
The Antigua Ballers were too good for Combine Express, securing their place in the championship game with a commanding 98-55 victory. The balanced offensive attack was led by center Yohan Nicholas, who recorded an impressive double-double of 26 points and 23 rebounds, controlling the paint throughout the contest.
Tajahron Davis was equally spectacular, contributing 19 points while pulling down 20 rebounds and dishing out nine assists, with Erije Joseph adding 19 points and five rebounds to complement the inside presence, while Elijah Charles chipped in 14 points.
The Ballers’ depth was evident with Noah Massiah recording a solid 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Gabriel De Suza filled up the stat sheet with 10 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks.
Despite the lopsided score, Combine Express fought hard behind Derick Perez’s game-high 30 points, but lacked the supporting cast to match Antigua’s balanced attack.
In stark contrast to the first semi-final, the second game delivered some drama as the Bajan Ballers narrowly defeated the Island Hoopers 82-78 in a back-and-forth battle.
The story of the game was Ari “Squirts” Mottley’s outstanding all-around performance. The forward recorded 21 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and 3 blocks, making crucial plays on both ends when his team needed them most. Seamus Oshea provided excellent support with 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals.
The Bajan Ballers received significant contributions from their supporting cast, with Jahmal James adding 14 points and a game-high 5 steals, while Darren Massiah recorded an impressive double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds, along with 4 assists and 4 steals.
The Island Hoopers kept pace behind strong performances from Perez (31 points) and Charles (23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals). Khalil Roberts contributed a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds while adding 6 steals, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Ballers’ depth.
The tournament concludes with two compelling matchups. The championship final will feature the dominant Antigua Ballers taking on the resilient Combine Express, while the bronze medal game promises to be another thriller between the Bajan Ballers and Island Hoopers in a rematch of Saturday’s classic.
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