Match report: Team Sunderland National League Basketball ‘Nayl’ed on for success

Team Sunderland 97 – 72 Calderdale Explorers

Jai Naylor scored 31 points as Team Sunderland recorded a comfortable 25 point win to extend their unbeaten start in National Basketball League Division 3.

Team Sunderland went into the game having won both opening matches, sitting fifth in the standings. Calderdale were at the foot of the table, failing to record a win in their first five matches.

Despite their heavy offensive presence, Sunderland led by three points at the first interval. Naylor was a standout scorer with two three-pointers to maintain the narrow lead.

Sunderland started to hit a rhythm both offensively and defensively during the second quarter, with scores from George Radford extending the lead.

A late fightback from Calderdale reduced their deficit to 10 points at half-time.

Naylor continued scoring from long range, whilst the defence were keeping the Explorers quiet, with a 26-point lead going into the last period.

A great team performance sealed another two points for Team Sunderland, as they ran out 97-72 winners on the day.

Coach Brian Calder commented, “We had a great practice session last night; for the first time, we had 12 guys there.

“It’s sometimes difficult because my players are at work as well, so we’ve got to fit around shifts, but they transmitted what we did last night into the game tonight.

“It’s not always there because we don’t have that rotation, but I think most people on the court really contributed as well.”