Skyforce fall at Santa Cruz

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – The Santa Cruz Warriors defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 109-93 Tuesday afternoon, sweeping their first-ever homestand in Santa Cruz and extending their win streak to five games.

The Santa Cruz Warriors were led by Kent Bazemore, on assignment from the Golden State Warriors, who scored a game-high 21 points. Travis Leslie grabbed a team-high 8 rebounds along with his 16 points, while Stefhon Hannah dished out a game-high 8 assists in addition to his 11 points. Jeremy Tyler, also on assignment from Golden State, scored 18, and Chris Johnson was hot off the bench with 14 points.

The Sioux Falls Skyforce were paced by Dexter Pittman, on assignment from the Miami HEAT, who had the only double-double of the night with 15 points and 14 boards. Demetris Nichols also scored 15, while five other Skyforce players were in double-figures.

The Warriors shot 56.7% from the field, while they held their opponent to 39.6% shooting. The Warriors’ aggressive defense was again on display, forcing 23 turnovers that led to 33 points. However, the Skyforce became the first team this season to out-rebound the Warriors (45-37).

The game was tied twice, both times in the first minutes of the first quarter. The Warriors led by as much as 25 before winning the game by 16 points.