Recap

Team Northumbria men’s basketball made it two wins from two in the National Basketball League Men’s Trophy on Sunday with a 76-67 win against Bradford Dragons.

Team Northumbria topped Pool 2 and can now look forward to 2018’s knockout stages.

Both teams started consistently as the first quarter produced a total of 46 points – with Bradford Dragons gaining a shock early lead at 24-22.

TN missed key baskets in the second quarter and allowed Bradford Dragons to extend their lead to 11 points heading into the break.

But the rejuvenated hosts stepped onto the court looking like they meant business in the third quarter.

And a defensive masterclass restricted the Dragons to eight points – with a fluctuating fixture turned on its head.

Last week Northumbria University head coach Marc Steutel questioned his team’s defensive focus on court and the playcaller will no doubt be pleased with his side’s efforts in the second half against Bradford.

An impressive 23 points from TN’s Malcolm Smith and 20 points from vet Lewis Champion skyrocketed the home side to victory and a second successive win.

Report by Dan Simmonite