Rio Grande Valley vs. Texas

FRISCO, Texas (Interstat) — In a game defined by a blistering start and a furious finish, the Texas Legends erased a 20-point deficit to stun the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 108-104 in a G League matchup Tuesday night at Dr Pepper Arena.

The Vipers, entering the game with a 27-17 record and a clear statistical edge, looked poised to run away with the contest from the opening tip. Rio Grande Valley unleashed a dominant first quarter, exploding for 39 points while holding the Legends to just 25. The offensive onslaught continued, and the Vipers built a commanding 65-50 lead at halftime, having shot a scorching percentage from the field in the opening half.

Rio Grande Valley maintained a comfortable margin through the third quarter, taking an 89-75 advantage into the final period. However, the game’s most important shift occurred in the fourth quarter, where the Legends’ defense completely stifled the Vipers’ offense while their own attack found a relentless rhythm.

Texas outscored Rio Grande Valley 33-12 in the final frame. The Legends’ defensive pressure forced the Vipers into a series of rushed shots and turnovers, while on the other end, guard Dalano Banton spearheaded the comeback. Banton, listed at 6-foot-9, repeatedly attacked the basket and facilitated for teammates, helping Texas chip away at the lead throughout the quarter.

The Legends finally drew even and then took the lead in the closing minutes, capitalizing on key stops and converting at the free-throw line. Rio Grande Valley, which had been so fluid offensively for three quarters, went cold, managing only a handful of field goals in the final 12 minutes. A last-second three-pointer by the Vipers’ J.D. Davison provided the final margin but came after the outcome was decided.

The victory improved Texas to 18-28 on the season, while Rio Grande Valley fell to 27-18. The game was a reversal of a previous meeting this season on Feb. 12, which the Vipers won 121-120 in overtime.

Banton’s all-around performance was central to the comeback for Texas. Rio Grande Valley was led by Davison and Daishen Nix, whose early play built the large lead that ultimately could not be held. The Vipers’ offense, which had averaged over 117 points in its previous two games, was held to its lowest output in three weeks.

The Legends host the Iowa Wolves on Friday, while the Vipers continue their road trip at the Santa Cruz Warriors on Thursday.