9:00am Friday 5th February 2010
THE Big Tall Order Bristol Academy Flyers were crowned the 2010 National Cup Final champions after an exciting game against Manchester Magic on Sunday afternoon at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.
It took a period of overtime, but Filton College’s Bristol Academy Flyers managed to upset the Manchester Magic for the first time in eight games to win their first major trophy.
A balanced offensive display saw four Bristol players record double digits on the scoreboard, but it was big man of the match Davis Bowne that caused the most damage with a 12 point, 13 rebound double-double.
With the score locked at 55-55, Magic’s Stefan Gill scored with just over one minute remaining.
With two seconds left, Bristol’s Doug McLaughlin-Williams pulled up for a three but was fouled by the Magic’s Yann Fasbender; the result was three free throws.
The American missed his first shot but regained his composure to sink the last two baskets leaving, the game tied at 57-57.
Youngster Josh Houghton drove with the left hand to open the overtime scoring.
Bowne replied nearly two minutes later to level, but Gill’s 28th point at the minute and a half mark gave the Magic a 61-59 lead.
Bristol’s Anthony Berry was sent to the line by Lee Goldsbrough.
Berry converted one of two, and as the Flyers regained possession, Berry’s hook-in gave them the 62-61 lead.
Houghton missed from long range at the other end leaving the Magic forced to foul Jack Stannard, whose one of two free throws was enough to secure the victory.
Flyers Coach Andreas Kapoulas said: “Winning the National Cup is a major milestone in our club’s history.
“It is such a great achievement and a huge recognition for our players, supporters, coaches and Bristol basketball in general.
“I am so proud of our player’s commitment, work ethic and determination. They really deserve this.
Flyers forward Bowne said: “The win was a product of the team’s hard work, demonstrating the depth and toughness our team possesses.
“I am so happy to be part of this group. The cup means a lot to the Flyers and Bristol basketball.
“We now hope to continue our success in the league campaign.”
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