Tide beat Reign 101-90

The Tacoma Tide won their first game of the 2010 season at Olympia on Friday. The victory came exactly one week after the Tide went to Olympia and lost by just two points. Like the last matchup, this game had twelve lead changes. The rematch also had twelve ties in a back and forth affair. Unlike last week, this time the Tide came out with exceptional energy and were able to spurt out to an early lead. However, their largest lead would not come until the final whistle blew.

In search of last year's mojo, the Tide brought back the defensive intensity from 2009. On the smaller court at South Puget Sound Community College (temporary home for Olympia Reign), the Tide were able to turn defensive steals into offensive production. Balanced scoring in the first half yielded multiple 6 point scorers and Quentin Nolen alone as the Tide leading scorer with 7 points. Olympia was paced by inside performers Nicholas Moore and Mike Ward.

The second half was much of the same. The Tide would make a short run and controlled most of the game, but were unable to mount a sizable lead. Also, while kept quiet in the first half, Reign star, Nate MenAfee warmed up in the second half to the tune of 27 points. MenAfee's squad looked like they might ride his momentum after he hit a three point shot from around ten feet behind the arc. Fans may have expected the Tide's point guard, Antwan Williams, to battle with MenAfee for control of the game, but when Williams went out at half time with a slight hamstring strain, the slack was picked up by the rest of the Tacoma crew. Excellent defense on the interior and balanced scoring gave the Tide a small cushion with a minute left to play and they were able to ice the game from the free throw line. Tacoma's team effort led to five players with double figures, and two more with eight points or better. Jujuan Winesberry earned the Comcast On Demand Player of the Game due to his 5 blocks and 8 rebounds.

To watch the game for FREE, go to the On Demand feature on your Comcast digital cable. Select Get Local, then Local Sports, and Tacoma Tide.

The Tide take off on their cross nation trip this weekend to play the Albany Legends on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before retuning home for their regular season home opener on May 8 vs. the Yamhill Highflyers. Tickets are available on www.TacomaTideSports.com for as low as $5.

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