FIBA World Cup: New Zealand beats Kobe-esque Rondae Hollis-Jefferson’s in Jordan loss 95-87
– In the very last seconds of the fourth quarter during the clash between New Zealand and Jordan, the whole crowd in the Mall of Asia arena was shouting “Kobe, Kobe, Kobe”.
The reason why belongs in the fact that Rondae Hollis-Jefferson seemed possessed, replicating the beloved Los Angeles Lakers superstar moves on the court to almost bring Jordan the win in overtime against New Zealand. However, a 95-87 loss was the final result.
The former Toronto Raptors and Portland Trail-Blazers small forward ended the game with 39 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists while shooting 12/24 from the field and 14/18 at the charity stripe. Most importantly, he forced overtime with an outstanding and-one three-point play.
On New Zealand’s side, instead, Izayah Le’Afa helped with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Finn Delany added 14 points and 7 rebounds, while Shea Ili had a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Talking once more about Jordan, the American-native player was assisted by Freddy Ibrahim, who flirted with a double-double of 22 points and 9 assists, and by veteran Ahmad Dwairi, who had 19 points and 9 rebounds while shooting 9/12 from the field.
It was a close game with New Zealand having the 21-18 lead in the first quarter and a 9-point advantage (46-37) at halftime. The Tall Blacks managed to get even a double-digit lead (50-40) momentarily, but Jordan reacted and made it a five-point game (51-46).
The third period closed with New Zealand having the advantage (65-57), however, they couldn’t relax a bit.
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