Worcester Wolves 87-71 Bristol Flyers Preseason
Worcester Wolves eased past Bristol Flyers 87-71 in pre-season action at the University of Worcester Arena on Monday.
It was newly-appointed club captain Ashton Khan who started the scoreboard ticking with a basket and a bonus free throw. His backcourt companion Elvisi Dusha made an immediate impact with a steal and a behind-the-head pass for Alex Navajas to convert, pushing Wolves 15-5 ahead.
Newly-signed American forward Trayvonn Palmer dived on the floor to set up a Khan triple before setting out on a nine-point burst of personal scoring, aiding a commanding 30-14 first quarter lead.
By half-time the advantage had held firm at 47-32, with Palmer doubling his points tally.
The third quarter featured six three-pointers for the hosts, including a couple each for Palmer and his countryman Brandon Parrish.
A healthy 69-51 cushion entering the final quarter gave coach Paul James the opportunity to distribute court-time across his squad. At five minutes remaining, Bristol had slashed the lead to 71-51.
Seven-foot centre Dallin Bachynski made his presence felt with several inside baskets, rounding out his evening with a powerful dunk from a clever Navajas assist, re-establishing Worcester’s superiority.
Palmer led the scoring with 28 points, followed by Khan with 23. Bachynski and Parrish totalled 15 points apiece.
“I liked what I saw tonight,” declared James. “We worked hard. Bristol came back at us a couple of times but we kept our composure and kept our shape.”
Wolves suit up again for another pre-season outing this Friday at the University of Worcester Arena, (tip off 7.30), when Sheffield Sharks visit the city.
“I’m really pleased that so many people come out to see us on a Monday evening. I felt the team put on a good show for them, so hopefully everyone will come back for more of the same on Friday”, added James.