Sharif Unleashes Offensive Barrage as Aviators Dominate Monarchs 125-88
Sharif's Career Night Powers Aviators' Rout Over Monarchs
By Jamie Henderson
ATLANTA – The Atlanta Aviators soared to a decisive 125-88 victory over the Montreal Monarchs tonight at the Georgia Dome, fueled by a career-high performance from Yasmine Sharif and a masterful display of offensive execution. The win, a dominant statement in World Pro League Season 2, saw the Aviators control the tempo from tip-off, showcasing their potent offense and stifling defense.
The game began with an immediate offensive spark from the Aviators, with Yasmine Sharif knocking down an early three-pointer that ignited the crowd. She continued her relentless assault throughout the first half, dropping 18 points before halftime. The Monarchs, struggling to find their offensive rhythm, saw their shooting percentage plummet, as Atlanta’s defense, anchored by Adrik Petrov’s playmaking at both ends, forced numerous turnovers.
Petrov orchestrated the Aviators’ offense with precision, dishing out 11 assists while also contributing 19 points. The Monarchs’ attempts to claw back were consistently stymied. A key moment came in the third quarter when Ben Carter, contributing 11 points and 7 assists himself, snagged a crucial steal that led to a fast-break dunk for Delilah Blake, extending Atlanta’s lead and demoralizing the visitors.
“We came out with an incredible energy tonight,” said Aviators Head Coach Maria Rodriguez. “Yasmine was lights out, but it was the collective effort, the ball movement, and the defensive intensity that really sealed it for us. This is the kind of basketball we know we can play.”
Sharif, who finished with a game-high 29 points and 9 rebounds, echoed the sentiment. “It felt good out there tonight. My teammates found me in good spots, and I was just able to knock them down. We wanted to send a message, and I think we did.”
The Aviators’ impressive ball movement led to 33 assists on 47 made field goals, a testament to their unselfish play. The Monarchs, despite a spirited effort from Samuel Kim (9 rebounds, 5 assists), could not find consistent scoring, shooting a dismal 14.6% from beyond the arc.
Key Notes:
- Yasmine Sharif led all scorers with 29 points.
- Adrik Petrov dished out a game-high 11 assists.
- Aviators recorded 33 assists on 47 made field goals.
- Montreal Monarchs shot just 14.6% from three-point range (6-of-41).
- Atlanta Aviators shot 52.8% from the field overall.