Preview: Memphis Hustle at Mexico City Capitanes

CIUDAD DE MÉXICO (Interstat) — A surging Mexico City Capitanes squad will host the struggling Memphis Hustle in a G League matchup Sunday at Estadio Azteca.

The Capitanes (26-16) enter on a five-game winning streak, most recently edging the Grand Rapids Gold 115-112 in overtime on March 10. Guard James Bouknight has been a catalyst, averaging 20.6 points over his last seven games and scoring 28 in the overtime victory.

Conversely, the Hustle (14-29) have lost eight of their last ten. They are coming off a high-scoring 142-132 road win over Iowa on March 8, but followed it with a 37-point home loss to Sioux Falls.

Memphis will rely on the versatile play of guard Charlie Brown, who is averaging 14.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists over his last seven contests. He neared a triple-double with 20 points, nine assists and six rebounds in the win at Iowa.

The teams met twice in November, with the Hustle sweeping both games in Memphis. The Capitanes won 103-109 on Nov. 9 and 117-133 on Nov. 8. Mexico City’s current form suggests a different outcome on its home floor.

The Capitanes boast a potent offense, having scored 115 or more points in six consecutive games. Bouknight and backcourt mate Wade Taylor, who had 26 points and five assists against Grand Rapids, provide a formidable challenge for the Hustle defense.

For Memphis, sustaining the offensive firepower shown against Iowa, where Orlando Robinson scored 27 points and Tyler Burton added 31, will be critical to pulling off an upset.

The game is the first of a two-game set in Mexico City, with the second scheduled for Monday.