From the tip off to the end of the 1st quarter the pace was fast and furious as the Palm Beach Imperials hosted The Orlando Aces. The Imperials fell behind early in the quarter and battle back led by outstanding guard play from Anthony "The Wizard" Slater, a former FAU basketball player who was part of the Sidney Green led squad that went to the NCAA Tournament in 2001-2002. The Imperials would close out the quarter strong leading 28-27.
The frantic pace continued with The Aces running and gunning led by Alex Hill and Nick Wallery, a former Palm Beach Imperial player. The Imperials would have an answer of their own with Rolando Hall and new comer Levasiyea Freeman. With 20 seconds left in the quarter Bobby St. Preux threw down a thunderous dunk that brought the fans to their feet as the Imperials led at the half 49-47.
Focusing on defense, the Imperials came out aggressive at the start of the 3 rd Quarter. With stifling defense led by Slater and Bobby Brown, the lead grew and at the end of the third it was Imperials 92 Aces 59.
The Aces would mount a comeback with tough defensive pressure and The Imperials would answer with continuous substitutions. Hanging tough and fending off the fierce comeback the Imperials prevailed 107-94.
The Imperials were lead in scoring by St. Preux (24), and Slater recorded the team's first ever triple double (11pts, 16 assts, 10 steals).
The Imperials are now 6-10 as they head to Jacksonville. After a road trip to Jacksonville, the Imperials will have a 4 game home stand as they face the Jacksonville Jam on 1/17/07, The Orlando Aces on 1/18/07, the Miami Tropics on 1/19/07, and the Knoxville Noise on 1/20/07. All games will be played at FAU with a 7:30 PM Tip-off. The games will feature entertainment and other promotions as well as a chance for autographs after the game. Come on out and watch The Imperials and they battle for a play-off berth.
Dan Mangru
Imperiali Organization
Office: 561-805-9494
Fax: 561-515-6136
www.imperiali.org
www.i1connect.com
www.palmbeachimperials.com
