Worcester Wolves 78-57 Coventry Flames

Sunday 30 January 20222

By Colin Taylor

Worcester Wolves remain unbeaten at the top of the Midlands Division of the National Basketball League after seeing off Coventry Flames at the University of Worcester Arena on Sunday. 

After a slow start, Wolves edged 31-24 away from their visitors by half-time and kept up the pressure to ease to a comfortable 78-57 win. 

Matei Balteanu featured heavily as the game began, bullying his way to a series of baskets. Coventry nudged 12-11 in front before the Romanian forward connected again to reverse the lead when the first quarter ended. 

David Lauzzana grabbed a couple of scores and Lucas McGregor did likewise as Worcester established control. 

Flames’ cause was not helped by their impressive centre Luke Gregory having to take an early seat on the bench after picking up his third foul before the close of the first half. 

A three-point party took place after the interval. Wilfrid Santhe lit the fuse and Lauzzana exploded with a trio of bombs in barely a minute of play for a 52-38 lead. 

The host’s advantage expanded on a Drew Clark triple and the contest was fully decided once Ian Vivero-Rodriguez concluded a stunning thirteen-point final quarter rampage. 

Balteanu led a spread of Wolves scorers with 20 points, followed by 17 from Vivero-Rodriguez, 15 for Lauzzana and a 13 point contribution from McGregor. 

“We had one or two players missing today and that caused us to take a little time to get into the flow of the game,” said Worcester coach Dean Blake. “But we’re fortunate that we’ve got quality across our squad that meant we still got the job done. 

“It was a good opportunity to change up our rotations and it was pleasing to see players respond well to that. 

“It was Ian’s birthday today so it was extra special that he performed so well today and David typified the effort our players are putting in when he got a block at one end, sprinted up the court ahead of everyone else and finished a layup.” 

Wolves are next in action on Saturday 05 February (3.30pm) when they travel to Nottingham Hoods. 

“Because of our unbeaten record teams want to be the first to beat us so we’ll make sure we’re ready for another battle,” added Blake.