In a thrilling conclusion to the NBA G League Winter Showcase, the Santa Cruz Warriors triumphed over the Windy City Bulls with a final score of 112-107 in Orlando, Florida. The Warriors improved their record to 7-9 while the Bulls fell to 5-11.
Key players for the Warriors included forward Kevin Knox II and two-way center Quinten Post, both of whom led the team with 17 points. Post also recorded 11 rebounds, marking his fifth double-double of the season. Two-way guard Pat Spencer added 16 points, along with nine rebounds and eight assists, contributing significantly to the team’s efforts during his third game with Santa Cruz. Forward Black Hinson also performed well off the bench, scoring 16 points, while Jackson Rowe completed the scoring with 14 points to go along with five rebounds and four assists.
For the Bulls, their standout player was two-way guard DJ Steward, who achieved a double-double with 21 points and 12 assists. Adama Sanogo, a two-way forward/center, contributed 16 points and nine rebounds. Chicago Bulls assignment player Chris Duarte added 15 points, while EJ Liddell and Ben Coupet Jr. each chipped in 13 and 12 points respectively.
The game started strong for Santa Cruz, who opened with a 7-0 run, thanks in part to a three-pointer from Quinten Post. They exited the first quarter with a 28-17 advantage. Despite maintaining a lead, the Warriors faced competition from Windy City, who narrowed the gap in the second quarter. Nevertheless, Santa Cruz managed to hold onto a slim 58-54 lead at halftime.
The Warriors showcased their scoring prowess with back-to-back three-pointers in the third quarter and entered the final period with an 85-79 lead. The fourth quarter proved tense as both teams exchanged baskets, but strong late-game performances from Knox, who scored eight points in the last three minutes, solidified the Warriors’ victory.
As the Santa Cruz Warriors prepare for the regular season, which kicks off with a back-to-back series against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on December 27 and 28, there is a palpable excitement among fans and players alike. This win demonstrates the team’s potential and resilience—key traits that could carry them through upcoming challenges.
For fans wanting to stay engaged with the Warriors, updates are available via the official Santa Cruz Warriors app, and ticket information can be obtained through the team’s website or by contacting their ticket office.
This victory not only showcases the Warriors’ talent but also offers a hopeful outlook as they gear up for the season ahead.