Surfers Silence Garden: Sydney Steals a Victory in Nail-Biter 103-99
Suzuki's Late Steals Spark Surfers' Upset Over Knights
By Sarah Jenkins
NEW YORK CITY – In a game that swung back and forth with every possession, the Sydney Surfers staged a late surge, fueled by timely defense and clutch buckets, to stun the New York Knights on their home court, 103-99. This World Pro League matchup marked a significant early-season test for both squads, with the Surfers emerging victorious thanks to a relentless rebounding effort and crucial turnovers in the final minutes.
The Knights held a slim lead for much of the second half, with Sofia Clemente and Stella Dupont providing potent scoring for New York. Clemente finished with 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Dupont added 13 points and 6 rebounds. However, the Surfers refused to fold, consistently answering the Knights’ runs. A key turning point came in the final quarter when Noah Suzuki, who was superb all night, recorded back-to-back steals that directly led to fast-break points for Sydney, shifting the momentum decisively.
“We knew they were going to come out strong. We just had to stay composed and execute,” said Suzuki, who ended the night with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals. “That sequence in the fourth, that was all about effort and trusting our defense.”
The Surfers’ physicality was evident throughout, particularly on the glass. Veteran forward Rafe Mortensen was a force, dominating the boards with a game-high 15 rebounds to go along with 11 points. Sydney’s ability to get to the free-throw line and convert (22-of-27 from the stripe) also proved vital in sealing the win.
Knights coach David Miller lamented his team’s inability to close out the game. “We had our chances, and we just couldn’t convert when it mattered most. Credit to Sydney, they played with great urgency down the stretch. We need to learn from this and come back stronger.”
Key Notes:
- Sydney Surfers outrebounded the Knights 62-49, including 18 offensive rebounds.
- Noah Suzuki’s 3 steals were crucial in sparking Sydney’s late comeback.
- Rafe Mortensen’s 15 rebounds led all players.
- The Surfers shot an efficient 81.5% from the free-throw line.
- The Knights struggled from three-point range, shooting just 29.2% (14/48).