NSA Overcome Homenetmen, 104-94
NSA pulled away for a convincing 104-94 D1M win over Homenetmen at Mezher on Monday, February 2. Stefan Jankovic led the charge for NSA with a game-high 28 points and 17 rebounds. It was an up-tempo, high-scoring affair with both teams combining for 198 points.
NSA took a 54-43 lead into halftime. The third quarter was the decisive stretch, with Homenetmen outscoring their opponents 31-22 to swing the momentum in their favor. NSA closed the game strong with a 28-20 fourth-quarter effort.
The game featured several highlight plays. K. Thomas (Homenetmen) threw down a powerful dunk in the second quarter, one of 4 dunks in the game. P. Rakicevic (NSA) connected from beyond the arc in the fourth quarter. G. Ajemian was a force on the defensive end with 5 blocks.
Stefan Jankovic was the undeniable star of the game, finishing with 28 points, 17 rebounds, 6 assists in 37 minutes of action. He shot 12-of-19 (63%) from the field, 3-of-7 (43%) from the free-throw line. The double-double effort underlined his all-around impact on the game. The team was a remarkable +15 with him on the floor. Richard Maykey provided valuable support with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, including 3 three-pointers. Christophe Khalil also chipped in with 24 points off the starting lineup.
NSA also generated 23 second-chance points and 15 fast-break points, capitalizing on every opportunity.
NSA held a significant edge in field goal shooting at 52% compared to Homenetmen's 45%.
NSA dominated the boards 54-31, including 20 offensive rebounds that led to extra possessions. NSA owned the paint with 52 points inside to Homenetmen's 36. NSA was in control for much of the game, building a lead of up to 16 points and putting together a 10-0 scoring run.
The biggest momentum shift came when NSA put together a 10-0 run in the third quarter, leaving their opponents scrambling to respond.
Down the stretch, NSA came up clutch when it mattered most. P. Rakicevic nailed a crucial three-pointer with 08:47 remaining to help seal the victory.
In a losing effort, Jordan Stevens fought hard for Homenetmen, finishing with 39 points, 3 assists. Khaleed Thomas added 16 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, but their combined efforts were not enough to turn the tide.