Prowlers Power Through Wolves 107-95 Behind Ribeiro's Dominance on the Boards

DENVER – Matias Ribeiro’s commanding presence in the paint, combined with a balanced offensive attack, propelled the Denver Prowlers to a 107-95 victory over the visiting Chicago Wolves. After a tightly contested first half, the Prowlers used a strong third-quarter surge to pull away, solidifying their position in the Pro League standings.

The game remained a back-and-forth affair through the opening two quarters, with neither team able to establish significant dominance. Chicago’s Anya Smirnov and Julian Santos kept the Wolves within striking distance with sharp shooting, while Denver relied on the scoring bursts of Aris Caldwell and Chloe Chang. However, the pivotal shift occurred midway through the third frame. Ribeiro, who had been a force on the glass all night, began to assert his will, sparking a run that saw the Prowlers build a double-digit lead the Wolves could not overcome.

Denver’s ability to control the tempo and capitalize on second-chance points proved to be the difference. Their 19 three-pointers also stretched the Wolves’ defense thin. “We knew they had some dangerous perimeter scorers, but our focus was on controlling the boards and playing our game,” said Prowlers Head Coach Evelyn Hayes. “Matias was incredible tonight. He gave us so many extra possessions.”

Ribeiro finished the game with a double-double, leading all scorers with 17 rebounds and adding 10 points. Caldwell and Chang also chipped in 20 points apiece, showcasing Denver’s offensive depth. On the Chicago side, Smirnov tallied 17 points and 5 assists, with Santos adding 18 points and 6 rebounds in the losing effort.

A key moment late in the fourth quarter saw Maya Reed’s steal leading to a fast-break opportunity, sealing the Prowlers’ victory and energizing the home crowd.

“We just kept chipping away,” commented Ribeiro post-game. “My teammates found me, and I just focused on doing my job. It feels good to contribute like that.”

Key Notes:

• Denver out-rebounded Chicago 56-43, including 16 offensive boards.
• The Prowlers drained 19 three-pointers on 44.2% shooting from beyond the arc.
• Matias Ribeiro recorded a dominant 17 rebounds.
• Denver’s ball movement was efficient, with 28 assists on 39 made field goals.