Similar to the first game, both teams started trading baskets early on, like two prize fighters feeling each other out. Dave Millinier was effective early on inside while Jefney Anderson got off to a fast start for San Ramon. We started to put together a few scoring runs, only to be answered by mini runs from San Ramon. As the minutes wore on in the second quarter we carved out a six point lead, only to see Kay Martinez hit an off balance jump shot as the halftime buzzer sounded.
In the third quarter we managed to stretch the lead out to ten points, briefly quieting the frenzied crowd. A white-hot Jefney Anderson (10-11 from the field) hit some his big shots to again close the gap leading to a slim four point lead to close out the third quarter. The teams traded baskets for most of the fourth quarter. With about five minutes to go, our offense stagnated and San Ramon was able to make some fast break baskets to tie up the game and went ahead by a point or two. Each possession became critical as the game was winding down. John Chappell made a basket and converted the free throw to retake the lead, only to see San Ramon tie the game. With 18 seconds to go we got a key defensive stop and pushed the ball to a breaking Michale Jackson. As Michael crossed the half court line, he saw two San Ramon players in the lane and tried to hit the breaks...only the ball did not cooperate resulting in a traveling call. With seven seconds to go, San Ramon had one last chance to win it in regulation. With seven seconds to go San Ramon inbounded the ball to Greg Platter, but his shot came up short just before the final horn. Tied at 74, we were headed to overtime.
In overtime, San Ramon drew first blood scoring the first three points. With memories from the big win in overtime against Barva, the crowd was deliriously loud. Then Henry Martinez brought the ball up the court and hit a pull up jumper three feet behind the three point line to tie the game. A steal on the next play led to a Michael Jackson dunk that all of a sudden let the air out of the gym. Another defensive stop led to another basket by Henry Martinez, leading to enough of a lead to seal the game.
Game Notes
- Jefney Anderson led San Ramon with 22 points on some torrid shooting. He's having a great series for San Ramon.
- Henry Martinez (17 points) led a balanced scoring attack with Dave Millinier scoring 16 and Michael scoring 14. Henry seems to be comfortable with the mask.
- Hats off to the San Ramon organization. That gym was vibrant. Exactly the type of atmosphere all teams should strive for in this league. The only critique was some over zealous fans that decided that throwing stuff at our bench and players was a good idea. Much to the credit of the San Ramon organization, they did their best efforts to stop the offenders.
- No TV again for this one. It's a shame, because it was a game worthy of a finals.
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