NIGHTHAWKS VICTORIOUS IN SEASON OPENER, BEAT THE EXPRESS 118-113

November 6, 2006 (Box Score)

Newark, NJ -- The Maryland Nighthawks opened the 2006-2007 season with a 118-113 road win against the Newark Express. The Nighthawks trailed by as many as 12 points in the fourth quarter, before rallying late to beat the Express.

In a game where both teams combined to miss 28 free throws, the Nighthawks were able to step into a hostile environment and start the season off with a win. With only four returning players from last years roster, and only one player over 6 foot 5, the Nighthawks executed head coach Keith Williams’ game plan, going with a full court press and running the ball.

Trailing by 12 points in the fourth quarter, Landy Thompson was brought into the game and gave the Nighthawks a spark off the bench. Thompson scored all 15 of his points in the fourth quarter and forced some key turnovers. After the Express pulled to within 113-116 on a Donald Hennie 15 footer from the top of the key, Newark was forced to foul the Nighthawks to stop the clock. On the ensuing free throws, Andrew “Sponge Bob” Washington missed both shots but managed to get his own offensive rebound and lay in the put back sealing the game.

The Nighthawks had six players score in double figures. Newcomers Dennis Edwards (25 points) and Andrew "Sponge Bob" Washington (24 points) joined veteran Lee Cook (20 points), as they combined for 69 of the Nighthawks 118 points. Zakee Boyd led the Express with a game high 31 points on 8 of 13 shooting.

Anton Jenifer, the teams starting point guard, was a late scratch from the lineup after experiencing soreness during the pre game shoot around. Arthur Lewis (10 points), who played with the ABA’s Baltimore Pearls last season, started in Jenifer’s place. Jenifer is listed day-to-day and is expected to play in the Nighthawks home opener game.