Preview: Skyforce Visit Warriors in G League Clash

BONNY DOON, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Sioux Falls Skyforce squad faces a struggling Santa Cruz Warriors team in a G League matchup Friday at Kaiser Permanente Arena.

The Skyforce (15-11) enter having won seven of their last 10 games, despite a 115-108 home loss to Salt Lake City on Sunday. Sioux Falls boasts one of the league’s most dynamic players in point guard Jahmir Young, who is averaging 26.7 points and 9.2 assists over his last 10 contests. Young posted a 36-point, 12-assist double-double in the recent loss, showcasing his high-volume scoring and playmaking.

He will be matched against Santa Cruz guard Chance McMillian, who is coming off a 28-point performance in a 113-108 victory over Valley on Monday. McMillian has been a bright spot for the Warriors (8-17), who have the worst record in the Western Conference but have shown flashes, winning three of their last five.

The teams’ seasons have followed divergent paths. Sioux Falls has consistently been a competitive force, with recent wins over Memphis and a pair against Iowa. Their offense, fueled by Young and supported by contributors like Gabe Madsen and Trevor Keels, averages over 115 points per game.

Santa Cruz, conversely, has struggled for consistency, particularly on defense, allowing 112.4 points per game. Their two-game sweep of Valley last week provided a respite from a difficult stretch that included losses to Mexico City and Osceola. Inside, Charles Bassey and Marques Bolden will look to control the paint against the Skyforce.

Friday’s contest is the first of a two-game set between the teams, with a rematch scheduled for Saturday at the same venue. For Sioux Falls, it’s a chance to solidify its playoff positioning. For Santa Cruz, it represents an opportunity to build momentum and spring an upset against one of the conference’s top teams.

The game tips off at 7 p.m. PST.