The Ho Chi Minh City basketball derby between Saigon Heat and Ho Chi Minh City Wings had no surprises as the defending champion Saigon Heat maintained its high form while its opponent lost a number of players.
Kentrell Barkley (left) continues to play impressively for Saigon Heat
Ho Chi Minh City Wings were at a huge disadvantage without Jeremy Smith – the top scorer in recent matches. The 1.9m guard was on the field but did not wear a uniform and just sat watching his teammates from the bench. However, Ho Chi Minh City Wings surprised everyone by leading Saigon Heat with a score of 21-12.
Vincent Nguyen (middle) could not help Ho Chi Minh City Wings surprise Saigon Heat because the team lacked key players.
Having to frequently use 2 or more players to limit the destructive power of the number 1 striker Kentrell Barkley, the Ho Chi Minh City Wings were quickly exploited by the Saigon Heat's perimeter shooters and gradually shortened the score and took the lead 24-23 at the beginning of the second half. After that, Saigon Heat accelerated with consecutive scoring phases, the most impressive of which were 4 consecutive scoring phases by Vietnamese-American player Le Hai Son (Hassan Thomas).
Overseas Vietnamese player Le Hai Son (left) has accurate 3-point shots.
Saigon Heat Club created a gap of up to 20 points against Ho Chi Minh City Wings before entering the 4th quarter. Trailing, Ho Chi Minh City Wings Club lost another player when Amir Williams was injured and could not continue playing, so he could not resist the opponent.
When the match was decided, coach Matt Van Pelt proactively withdrew his key players and let rookie Vo Duy Linh come in to gain experience. Saigon Heat ended the match with a 82-67 victory.
Saigon Heat Club won all 3 matches in VBA 2023
Saigon Heat's Kentrell Barkley won the best player award for the third consecutive time with a "triple-double" (having 3/5 key stats reaching at least 10), 24 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists.
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