Westchester vs. Long Island
UNIONDALE, N.Y. (Interstat) — In a high-scoring G League affair defined by offensive runs and a frantic final period, the Long Island Nets outlasted the Westchester Knicks 117-111 on Sunday at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
The game turned decisively in the fourth quarter after Westchester had clawed back from a significant early deficit. The Knicks, who trailed by as many as 16 points in the first half, used a 35-point fourth quarter to draw within a single possession in the final minutes. However, key plays by Long Island’s backcourt sealed the victory for the home team.
The most critical sequence occurred with just over two minutes remaining and Long Island leading 110-108. Westchester’s Manny Obaseki lost possession on a steal by Long Island’s Malachi Smith, who was immediately fouled. Smith converted both free throws to extend the lead to four. On the ensuing Knicks possession, T.J. Warren was called for an offensive foul, handing the ball back to the Nets. E.J. Liddell then hit a 17-foot jumper to push the Long Island advantage to 114-108 with 1:35 left, a cushion the Knicks could not overcome in the final moments.
Long Island established control early, erupting for 34 points in the first quarter behind efficient outside shooting and led 63-52 at halftime. Westchester’s Dillon Jones and T.J. Warren orchestrated a persistent comeback, with the Knicks chipping away in the third and exploding in the fourth. Their efforts set up the tense finish before the Nets executed in the clutch.
Chaney Johnson led a balanced Long Island attack, contributing key baskets and defensive plays down the stretch. For Westchester, Dillon Jones facilitated the offense while Pacome Dadiet provided scoring bursts.
With the win, Long Island improved its season record to 23 wins and 18 losses. Westchester, despite the valiant comeback attempt, fell to 10 wins and 28 losses. The two teams are scheduled to meet again at Nassau Coliseum on March 24.
The game was played in front of an announced crowd at the historic Uniondale venue.