The Long Island Nets hit the hardwood again on Sunday, March 15th, facing off against the formidable Osceola Magic. After a nine-day break, the Nets returned with a fresh lineup and a renewed focus.
The absence of key players like EJ Liddell, Chaney Johnson, Tyson Etienne, Malachi Smith, and Grant Nelson, who is out for the season with patellar tendinitis, meant the team had to adapt quickly. The result?
A tough 126-107 loss to one of the top teams in the NBA G League.
Despite the defeat, the Nets are eyeing a playoff run. With six games remaining, they sit comfortably tied for the fifth seed in the East, three games ahead of the seventh-seed Capital City Go-Go, and just a game shy of third place.
The regular season wraps up on March 28th, with playoffs kicking off shortly after. The big question remains: will the two-ways and Smith be back in time to bolster the squad?
Sunday’s game saw a fresh starting five: Dre Davis, Hunter Cattoor, Alex Schumacher, Tre Scott, and David Muoka. Head coach Mfon Udofia has emphasized a “next-man-up” mentality, and this game was a testament to that philosophy, with four of the starters usually coming off the bench. The Nets had only nine healthy players available, pushing everyone to step up.
Dre Davis shone brightly, leading the team with a career-high 25 points. The 6’6” Seton Hall alum was efficient, shooting 50% from the field and hitting three of his eight attempts from beyond the arc. He also contributed five rebounds, an assist, a steal, and a block.
Hunter Cattoor also made his presence felt, tying for second on the team with 20 points. He was sharp from deep, making four of his eight attempts, and added two rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Cattoor logged 41 minutes, his most since joining the team, showing his growing role.
David Muoka, starting at center, faced the daunting task of guarding Colin Castleton, one of the league’s top big men. Muoka held his own, scoring 14 points, grabbing six rebounds, and blocking three shots.
Tre Scott, the only player who started the previous game, added 13 points and nearly secured a double-double with eight rebounds. His defensive prowess was evident with a game-leading four steals.
Alex Schumacher returned to the Nets after playing for the Swiss National Team. Although he had a quiet game by his standards, he contributed four points, four rebounds, and five assists as he re-adjusted to the team.
Off the bench, veteran point guard Terry Roberts provided a spark with 20 points, three rebounds, six assists, and a steal, despite leading the team with five turnovers.
The game also reunited the Nets with former teammates Colin Castleton and Reece Beekman. Castleton showcased his skills with a 21-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Beekman recorded a triple-double with 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, along with three steals.
Looking ahead, the Long Island Nets (18-12) remain in the sixth seed as the playoff race heats up. With the season winding down, every game is crucial.
They’re set to face the Osceola Magic again on Tuesday, March 17th, at 7:00 p.m. EST, available to watch on ESPN+.