After losing Game 1 of NOSBL XVII Finals to the 76ers, 97 - 79, the Celtics responded by defeating the 76ers 86 - 72 on Monday, 13 February 2017 at North Highland Assembly of God's Church Gymnasium.  Both champions (Eastern and Western Division) will meet for Game 3 on Thursday, 16 February, 7:30 P.M., to compete for the National Championship Title.  There were four series of events that contributed to the Celtics' victory: 1) James Daniels (#20) filling in to single-handedly defend Willie Tennyson (#34) for five points, four rebounds, two steals, one assist, and one block - in the absence of the team's center, Steve Woodson; 2) Johnny Vasquez (#22) and Ralph Mathews (#00) combining for nine points to spark the second wave of scoring; and 3) Christopher None (#15), Sterling Hicks (#32) and Jerel Jackson combining for 18 points, 11 rebounds, two steals, and six assists to keep the game close in the absence of Steven Woodson (during the first half).  The first half ended with the 76ers leading 37 - 32. 

The second half started with Steve Woodson joining his (Celtics') teammates on the court.  His presence allowed all players to settle into their specific positions and roles.  Woodson contributed 12 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and several defensive stands to cause missed shots.  Christopher None and Sterling Hicks gave everybody a chance to do their thing by facilitating scoring through amazing assists.  Jerel Jackson (#24) scored on 7 three-point shots; Steve Woodson scored 12 points; Johnny Vasquez scored four points; and Ralph Mathews scored two points.  Sterling Hicks had 13 total assists, 6 rebounds, and 1 steal.  Christopher None had a total of 6 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists.

The 76ers assumed their first lead at 3 and maintained their lead until both teams tied at 51 in the second half.  They tied, again, at 54, before the Celtics took control of the game with 54 to 35 second half points.

We invite you to join us on Thursday, 16 February 2017, for the NOSBL XVII Title Game at 7:30 P.M..