Vipers, Squadron Set for Quick Rematch in Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Interstat) — Just 48 hours after a high-scoring affair, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Birmingham Squadron will meet again Tuesday night at Legacy Arena in a G League contest.

The Vipers (7-6) edged the Squadron (4-9) 133-127 on Sunday in the first leg of this two-game set. Tuesday’s matchup offers Birmingham an immediate chance for revenge on its home floor.

Rio Grande Valley arrives with momentum, having won three of its last four games, including a 120-119 road victory over Oklahoma City on Friday. The Vipers’ offense has been potent, averaging 122.5 points over their last six outings.

Birmingham seeks to halt a three-game skid, with its last win a 103-101 road victory over Oklahoma City on Dec. 11. The Squadron have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 122.2 points during their losing streak.

A key matchup will feature two of the league’s standout performers. Rio Grande Valley guard Teddy Allen enters on a scoring tear, averaging 28.3 points over his last four games. He erupted for 42 points in Sunday’s win over Birmingham.

Birmingham will counter with center Hunter Dickinson, who is coming off a dominant 17-point, 21-rebound performance in the win over Oklahoma City. In his last five games, Dickinson has averaged 16.4 points and 13.6 rebounds, providing a consistent interior presence for the Squadron.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 121-100 victory for the visiting Vipers.

Following Tuesday’s game, Birmingham begins a six-game road trip Saturday at Westchester. Rio Grande Valley’s next contest is not until Dec. 31 at Sioux Falls.