Pacers Claim DIAL Championship Title; Dominate Game 1 in Premier Division Final

The Championship Division medal round of the Destiny Invitational Arima League concluded in electrifying fashion, with the spotlight shining brightly on the highly anticipated showdown between the Maloney Pacers and Spartans TT on Saturday 23rd March at the Princess Royal Basketball Court.

In the high-stakes battle for the Championship Division title, Pacers were on a mission to avenge their earlier defeat in the group stage of the tournament. From the opening tip-off, they displayed unwavering determination, surging to a commanding 29 - 16 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Spearheaded by the exceptional performance of Finals MVP, Leshaun Alfred, who dazzled with 27 points, 8 assists, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks, Pacers continued their dominance, extending their lead to an impressive 66 - 37 at halftime with a stunning 37 - 21 run in the second quarter.

While Spartans showed resilience, winning the third quarter 19 - 22, Pacers maintained their composure, matching their counterparts in the fourth quarter scoring with 23 points, and ultimately clinching the coveted Championship Division title in a riveting contest.

In the night's earlier match, there was much excitement, as the Championship Division third-place playoff unfolded between New Chapter and UWI.

The tension was palpable as both teams went head-to-head in the first quarter, with UWI edging ahead to finish with a slender 20 - 23 lead. However, New Chapter turned the tide in the second, battling back with a 25 - 20 run to take the lead at halftime.

It was neck-and-neck in the third quarter, with both teams scoring 21 points each, and despite UWI outscoring New Chapter in the final quarter (18 - 19), New Chapter emerged victorious, clinching third spot in the Championship Division by 1 point (84 - 83).

On Sunday, the much-anticipated clash between New Chapter and Maloney Pacers in Game 1 of the Premier Division Final brought fans out in their numbers. With both teams hungry for victory, the game promised intense action from the get-go.

New Chapter made the first move, swiftly putting points on the board and showing early signs of determination to challenge the undefeated Pacers. However, their momentum was short-lived as the Pacers quickly found their stride. Despite an initial turnover and missed attempt, Pacers gained control, leaving New Chapter trailing by 11 points at the end of the first quarter, with the score standing at 18 - 29.

As the game progressed, Pacers continued to assert their dominance, extending their lead with a commanding 16 - 24 run in the second quarter, leaving New Chapter facing an uphill battle with the halftime score reading 34 - 53.

New Chapter attempted to regroup during halftime, making strategic changes in personnel and tactics. However, Pacers' formidable lineup, led by Ahkeel 'Smally' Boyd (36 points, 8 assists, 11 rebounds, 3 steals), Ahkeem 'Fatto' Boyd (22 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals), and Tyrese Fields (21 points, 8 rebounds), proved too strong to handle. The Pacers maintained their relentless onslaught, functioning like a well-oiled machine throughout the game.

In the third quarter, the Pacers further solidified their lead, adding another 11 points to their already substantial advantage with a 15 - 26 return. The Warriors' efforts to stage a comeback were futile, and in the final period, they were overwhelmed by the Pacers' relentless offensive and defensive prowess. The Pacers sealed their dominance with an astonishing 4 - 32 run, ultimately clinching Game 1 with a resounding 53 - 111 victory.

With this commanding performance, Pacers have taken a significant step toward claiming the Premier Division title. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on New Chapter as they seek to bounce back and level the playing field in Game 2 on Thursday 28th March at the Princess Royal Basketball Court, Arima. On Thursday Caracas City will battle Black Mamba in the Premier Division 3rd Place Playoff which tips off at 7:30pm, before Game 2 of the Final gets underway at 9:00pm.

Source: DIAL press release – 25/3/2024