MDG bests SFS 43-26

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michael Hernandez
  • 436th SFS
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The 436th Medical Group kicked off intramural sports at Dover Air Force Base in the new year with their 43 - 26 victory over the 436th Security Forces Squadron in intramural basketball Jan. 7.

Basketball season runs through the end of March with play-off games to follow.

Early in the first half, the Cops, led by their defense, established a 10 - 9 advantage with 10 minutes remaining on the first-half clock.

The MDG shot about 10 percent from three-point range throughout the night. Although the Cops trailed 18 - 11 at half time, spirits remained high on their team as the Medics consistently missed free throws in the first half.

Early in the second half, Michael Hernandez, SFS, came in from the bench and drained a three pointer to bring the Cops within four points of the MDG lead.

"We are not worried because we still have our secret weapon, Winfert Gray," said Yumon Smart, MDG coach.

But no secret weapon was necessary because Medic Jeremy Hicks would not allow the game to get any closer. He scored the next two baskets, followed by a steal and an assist, extending their lead to 14 points with four minutes remaining.

In the second half, the Medics scored on two consecutive baskets, sinking one three-pointer, which extended the lead to 26 - 14, and the Medics never looked back. Relentless pressure and solid rebounding led to the MDG establishing a commanding 17-point lead in the second half.

Although the Medics were surgically dismantling the Cops, the SFS coach had a plan of his own.

"Our strategy to win will be applying fundamental basketball skills - back to the basics," said Edward Smalls, SFS Coach.

However, Smalls' wish did not pan out as the Medics sealed the victory.

"We kept the game close and at a slow pace hoping to come out victorious," said Smart, whose strategy was successful.

The MDG moved to 2 - 0 and play their next game against the 436th Mission Support Squadron Jan. 15 at 8 p.m.

The Cops, now 0 - 1, also take on MSS next, Jan. 14 at 7 p.m.

(Airman Shen-Chia Chu contributed to this story)