It hasn’t been an easy season for the Ottawa Blackjacks, who entered Saturday vs the Niagara River Lions last in the Eastern Conference with a 1-5 record.
Ottawa Blackjacks welcomed another key addition to their roster, Zena Edosomwan made his season debut after finishing his season with Denain ASC Voltaire in the France Pro B league. He made an immediate impact on the court, going 3 for 4 from the field in the 1st quarter helping the Blackjacks earn a 23-15 lead at the end of the 1st Quarter.
Edosomwan finished the night 7 for 8 from the field with 14 points
“And Z obviously first game, you know, huge impact in the game” said Head Coach James Derouin
JaKeenan Gant struggled offensively, shooting 2 for 8 from the field, Inclduing 1 for 4 from behind the arch. He was able to contribute defensively, The Blackjacks were Plus-14 with Gant on the floor as he provided 8 total rebounds.
After a slow start in the 1st Quarter, Niagara was able to cut the lead down to 1 heading into Halftime, outscoring the Blackjacks 30 to 23 in the 2nd Quarter led by Forward Aaryn Rai who shot 3 for 6 from the field, including 2 for 2 from behind the arc and 5 for 6 from the Free Throw line.
“I don’t think we were good to start the game defensively.” said Niagara Head Coach Victor Raso when asked about the teams slow start.
Performer of the night, Tyrrel Tate had a team high 19 points on 5 for 11 shooting and 7 for 7 from the free throw line. He also had 4 assists, 2 steals and 2 rebounds to help deliver Ottawa first home win of the season.
James Derouin had high praise for Keevan Veinot who was playing in his 2nd game of season after coming over after his season with Telenet Giants Antwerp.
“I thought Keevan Veinot was excellent tonight”
Veinot finished with 7 points on 2 from 6 but contributed 7 assists, tied with Javon Master with a team high.
On top of getting their first home win of the season, they also earned their All-Time home win vs Niagara River Lions