GRAND RAPIDS— NYBA introduced its new Dive and Drive Game format on Monday during the 1st-2nd grade basketball class. The Dive and Drive Game format showcased high-energy competition and quick decision-making, allowing players to improve their skills.
David Quinonez Jr. led the charge for the Warriors with 18 total points, including a dominant 10-0 run in the third quarter that swung the game in the Warriors favor. The Warriors edged out the Bulldogs 42-33 in a tightly contested matchup that showcased the competitive spirit of both teams.
The game started slowly, with both teams feeling each other out. The first quarter ended tied 3-3, but the pace picked up in the second quarter when Micah Wheatley sparked a 6-0 Bulldogs run. Wheatley made a key defensive play, grabbing a steal, securing an offensive rebound, and scoring a basket in one possession, helping his team take a 12-11 lead into halftime.
At halftime, the Bulldogs held on to a 1-point advantage. But the Warriors came out of halftime on fire, with Quinonez Jr. scoring back-to-back baskets and securing two loose balls in his first four possessions of the third quarter. His aggressive play set the tone as the Warriors surged ahead with their 10-0 run.
The game remained a back-and-forth battle as both teams fought for control. Jayce Tyler stepped up in the fourth quarter, contributing 10 of the Warriors’ 16 points to help secure the win. Tyler finished the game with 16 total points.
“Both teams competed hard and got better,” the NYBA coaching staff said after the game.
Branden Brown Jr. chipped in with 8 points for the Warriors. For the Bulldogs, Wheatley led with 15 points, Paxton Mendez added 12, and Wille Calvin Jr. contributed 5 points in a well-rounded effort.
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