Cleveland vs. Maine
PORTLAND, Maine (Interstat) — The Maine Celtics used a dominant second-quarter explosion to overpower the Cleveland Charge 130-105 in a G League matchup Tuesday night at the Portland Exposition Building.
The game, a rematch of a Sunday contest also won decisively by Maine, turned decisively in the second period. After a competitive first quarter that ended with Maine leading 28-22, the Celtics unleashed a 42-point barrage in the second quarter. That offensive surge overwhelmed the Charge, who managed 21 points in the period, and sent Maine into halftime with a commanding 70-43 advantage.
The Celtics’ second-quarter performance was a comprehensive display of efficiency and defense. They generated turnovers and converted them into easy baskets, while also finding a rhythm from beyond the arc. The period effectively decided the contest, as the Charge, despite a 34-point third quarter, could never seriously threaten the large deficit.
Maine improved its season record to 26 wins and 23 losses with the victory, while Cleveland fell to 29-18.
Kendall Brown led the charge for the Celtics, providing a versatile performance from his small forward position. The Cottage Grove, Minnesota, native was instrumental on both ends, contributing scoring, assists and disruptive defense. His efforts set the tone during the game-changing run.
He was complemented by guard Keon Johnson, whose scoring and playmaking helped sustain the Celtics’ offense throughout the night. The backcourt duo of Hayden Gray, from Solana Beach, California, and John Tonje of Omaha, Nebraska, also made significant contributions, facilitating the offense and hitting key shots.
For the Charge, forward Tristan Enaruna battled throughout, showcasing his scoring ability from multiple levels. He was supported by center Sy Chatman, who provided energy and interior scoring, and guard Zeke Mayo of Lawrence, Kansas, who found his shot, particularly in the second half.
However, Cleveland was hampered by turnovers and an inability to contain Maine’s multifaceted attack, especially during the pivotal second quarter. The Celtics’ ball movement and balanced scoring proved too much to overcome.
The win gave Maine a two-game regular-season sweep of the brief series, having also defeated Cleveland 121-91 just two days prior. The Celtics will look to build on the momentum, while the Charge aim to regroup on the road.
Cleveland’s next game is Thursday at Noblesville. Maine’s next scheduled game was not provided in the available information.