Surging Stars, Remix Collide in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — The hottest team in the G League rolls into the Chiles Center on Thursday night as the Salt Lake City Stars, riding a nine-game winning streak, face the Rip City Remix.

The Stars (9-1) have been dominant, averaging 130.2 points during their streak, which includes a 132-118 road victory over Stockton last Thursday. Their lone loss came in the season opener at San Diego.

Salt Lake City is powered by center Mohamed Bamba, who has been a force. Over his last 10 games, Bamba is averaging a double-double of 18.4 points and 12.7 rebounds, along with 2.5 blocks. He is coming off a 25-point, 16-rebound, three-block performance against Stockton. Guard E.J. Harkless added 34 points and six assists in that win.

The Remix (5-4) look to rebound on their home floor after a 141-130 loss to South Bay on Sunday. In that game, center Andrew Carr scored 26 points with nine rebounds, while Blake Hinson poured in 35 points.

Carr has been a key contributor for Rip City, though his production has fluctuated. He tallied 26 points and nine rebounds in the recent loss but was limited to just four points in 12 minutes in an overtime defeat to San Diego on Dec. 4.

This contest is the second of a quick two-game set between the teams. They just met in Portland on Tuesday, with details of that game unavailable for this preview. They will meet again in Salt Lake City on Jan. 2 and 3.

The Stars’ high-octane offense, which has scored 132 or more points in seven of their last eight games, will test a Remix defense that has allowed an average of 128.4 points over its last five outings.

For Rip City, containing Bamba in the paint and slowing the Stars’ transition game will be paramount. The Remix will need efficient scoring from Carr and Hinson to keep pace.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. PST at the Chiles Center on the campus of the University of Portland.