Despite Late Surge by Reno, the Legends Win Sixth Straight

Another game, another win. The Legends continued their hot streak tonight as they won their sixth consecutive game against the Reno Bighorns, 122-109. 

There was more attraction in Frisco on a Tuesday night than usual as recent Mavericks call-ups Kyle Collinsworth and Jalen Jones were sent down to play with the Legends tonight.

To add to that attraction, ESPN color commentator and former NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy was in attendance as he’ll call the Mavericks game against the Rockets on ESPN tomorrow night. Van Gundy was in attendance to support Jamel Warney and Donald Sloan, who he coached while apart of Team USA.

Texas jumped out to a quick lead in the first half, as Brandon Ashley and Wade Baldwin IV consistently knocked down shots and attacked the basket. Two-way player for the Sacramento Kings, JaKarr Sampson, did his best to keep the Bighorns in the game at the half down 59-53.

The second half was a roller coaster ride for both teams. Each team would go on their respective run with the Legends extending the lead and Reno trying to cut the deficit.

Ashley and Baldwin IV continued their offensive rhythm into the second half, as they both led the Legends with 26 points. Jalen Jones came alive in the final frame to put the game away and finished with 19 of his own.

Sampson and Jack Cooley were a problem for the Legends all night, who both scored 29 points. Cooley, who is built like an NFL defensive linemen, was a monster in the post, adding 12 rebounds to his point total.

“It was huge, especially with Cooley being the type of physical player he is and Sampson as athletic as he is. But that’s one of our staples; rebound the ball and keep the tempo up,” Ashley stated who had to guard and bang on the boards with Sampson and Cooley.

Kyle Collinsworth, who has spent the last month with the Mavericks, was effective back in Frisco as he dished out 12 dimes tonight after playing 18 minutes in the Mavericks victory last night.

“It was good. Good to get up and down and play big minutes. Haven’t done that in like five weeks,” Collinsworth explained on being back in Frisco compared to being with the Mavericks. “You know, I’ve taken on a different role but it’s been good. Gotta figure out how to stay in shape and be ready for any minutes.” 

Collinsworth and Jalen Jones will rejoin the Mavericks tomorrow night as the Rockets come to town. 

For the Legends, they’ll have a rare Thursday game as they face off against the Sioux Falls Skyforce later this week.