Leshaun Alfred impressed with a double-double and was later named the “Most Valuable Player” (MVP) when he piloted Maloney Pacers to the Championship Division title in the Destiny Invitational Arima League on Saturday evening.
The action concluded in electrifying fashion, in the final between the Maloney Pacers and Spartans TT, which saw the former emerge with a 108-82 win at the Princess Royal Basketball Court.
In the high-stakes battle for the Championship Division title, Pacers were on a mission to avenge their earlier defeat in the group stage of the tournament. From the opening tip-off, they displayed unwavering determination, surging to a commanding 29-16 lead by the end of the first quarter.
Spearheaded by the exceptional performance of the Finals MVP, Alfred, who dazzled with 27 points and ten rebounds, eight assists and four blocks, Pacers continued their dominance, extending their lead to an impressive 66-37 at halftime with a stunning 37-21 run in the second quarter.
While Spartans showed resilience, winning the third quarter 22-19, Pacers maintained their composure, matching their counterparts in the fourth quarter scoring 23 points, and ultimately clinching the coveted Championship Division title in a riveting contest.
In the night’s earlier match, there was much excitement as the Championship Division third-place playoff unfolded between New Chapter Academy and the University of the West Indies (UWI).
The tension was palpable as both teams went head-to-head in the first quarter, with UWI edging ahead to finish with a slender 23-20 lead. However, New Chapter turned the tide in the second, battling back with a 25-20 run to take the lead at halftime (45-43).
It was neck-and-neck in the third quarter, with both teams scoring 21 points each, and despite UWI outscoring New Chapter in the final quarter (19-18), New Chapter emerged victorious, clinching third spot in the Championship Division by one point (84-83).
Pacers dominate game one in Premier Division final
On Sunday, the much-anticipated clash between New Chapter and Maloney Pacers in game one in the Premier Division best-in-three series final brought fans out in their numbers. With both teams hungry for victory, the game promised intense action from the get-go.
New Chapter made the first move, swiftly putting points on the board and showing early signs of determination to challenge the undefeated Pacers. However, their momentum was short-lived as the Pacers quickly found their stride. Despite an initial turnover and missed attempt, Pacers gained control, leaving New Chapter trailing by 11 points at the end of the first quarter, with the score standing at 29-18.
As the match progressed, Pacers continued to assert their dominance, extending their lead with a commanding 24-16 run in the second quarter, leaving New Chapter facing an uphill battle with the halftime score reading 53-34.
New Chapter attempted to regroup during halftime, making strategic changes in personnel and tactics. However, Pacers’ formidable lineup, led by Ahkeel “Smally” Boyd (36 points, eight assists, 11 rebounds, three steals), Ahkeem “Fatto” Boyd (22 points, eight assists, three rebounds, two steals), and Tyrese Fields (21 points, eight rebounds), proved too strong to handle. The Pacers maintained their relentless onslaught, functioning like a well-oiled machine throughout the game.
In the third quarter, the Pacers further solidified their lead, adding another 11 points to their already substantial advantage with a 26-15 return. The Warriors’ efforts to stage a comeback were futile, and in the final period, they were overwhelmed by the Pacers’ relentless offensive and defensive prowess. The Pacers sealed their dominance with an astonishing 32-4 run, ultimately clinching game one with a resounding 111-53 victory.
With this commanding performance, Pacers have taken a significant step towards claiming the Premier Division title. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on New Chapter as they seek to bounce back and level the playing field in game two on Thursday. Also on Thursday, Caracas City will battle Black Mamba in the Premier Division third-place playoff which tips off at 7.30 pm, before game two of the final jumps off at 9 pm.