Vipers, Squadron Seek Momentum in G League Clash

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Interstat) — Two teams looking to climb the G League standings will meet Sunday when the Rio Grande Valley Vipers visit the Birmingham Squadron at Legacy Arena.

The Vipers (5-6) arrive after a narrow 118-113 home loss to Mexico City on Dec. 6, despite a 34-point, 10-assist effort from guard Daishen Nix. Birmingham (4-8) is coming off one of its best performances, a 103-101 road victory over Oklahoma City on Thursday.

Nix has been the engine for Rio Grande Valley, averaging 26.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.0 assists over his last 10 games. His recent stretch includes a 42-point, 10-assist outing and a 27-point, 9-rebound, 9-assist near-triple-double.

He will be matched against a Squadron squad fueled by center Hunter Dickinson, who is coming off a dominant 17-point, 21-rebound, 5-assist performance in the win over Oklahoma City. Dickinson has recorded a double-double in four of his last five games, including a 26-point, 15-rebound effort on Dec. 9.

The game features a contrast in recent trajectories. The Vipers have split their last six games, while Birmingham snapped a three-game skid with its Thursday victory. Both teams have struggled defensively, with each allowing an average of over 115 points per game in their last five contests.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, the Vipers are projected to win 121-100. This is the first of a quick two-game set between the teams, who will meet again at Legacy Arena on Tuesday.

For Rio Grande Valley, supporting production around Nix will be key. Center Efe Abogidi added 19 points and nine rebounds in the last outing. Birmingham will rely on Dickinson’s interior presence and the backcourt play of Trey Alexander, who scored 24 points in the win over Oklahoma City.

Tip-off is set for Sunday afternoon in Birmingham.