The Saigon Heat take their shot at the defending champs of the ABL, as they take on the Hong Kong Eastern Basketball Team for the first time this season.
Game time is set for 8:00PM at the Southorn Stadium in Hong Kong.
Though this is only the first time these two squads meet this season, they are definitely familiar with one another. Hong Kong had Saigon’s number last season, as they won the regular season series 3-1. They even met in the Playoffs, where Hong Kong unceremoniously swept Saigon to barge into the Finals and eventually win the title.
However the Heat look vastly improved from last season, as they now have depth and a talented crop of imports. Their new imports Mike Williams and Maxie Esho had fantastic debuts in the win against the Formosa Dreamers, while Moses Morgan had his own breakout game this season.
Esho shared game-high scoring honors with Morgan, as they each had 27 points to pace Saigon. Heritage Import Mike Williams wasn’t far behind, as he tallied a full statline of 19 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocks.
But no matter how well they play, Saigon knows that they have to test themselves against the champs. Hong Kong is still undefeated, and they carry a 7-0 record into 2018. Their latest conquest was against the Singapore Slingers once again, winning a close one , 82-79.
Tyler Lamb caught fire in the second half versus the Slingers, as he helped complete the comeback by taking care of business in the fourth quarter. He continues to be the most consistent players in the Hong Kong squad, and one of their best closers this season. His team high 25 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 steals were needed in Hong Kong’s second half comeback versus Singapre.
The reigning MVP Marcus Elliott is starting to round into shape after struggling from the field in his first few games of the season. Elliott has always been a triple double threat, and he showed the Slingers once again how devastating his mix of strength and speed is, as he tallied 14 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists.
Hong Kong puts it’s undefeated streak on the line, as they look to go 8-0 to start the season. However Saigon is determined to prove that this is a brand new day for the club. Which squad will win in Tuesday night ABL basketball action? Tune in to find out.
