AUSTIN – In a scene similar to Friday night, the Austin Spurs were cruising against the Texas Legends early with an 18-point second quarter lead.
But turnovers, cold shooting and tired legs would eventually doom the Spurs as they fell to the Legends by a final score of 123-119.
Davis Bertans, who was assigned by San Antonio earlier in the day, led the Austin Spurs with 27 points. Darrun Hilliard finished with 24 points and nine rebounds. Olivier Hanlan had 18 points, three rebounds and three assists. And Matt Costello stuffed the stat sheet with 13 points, nine rebounds, two steals and four blocks.
Derrick White, also on assignment from San Antonio, struggled in his G League debut. White finished with 5 points on 2-for-7 shooting in 14 minutes, all in the first half.
For the Legends, Justin Dentmon had a game-high 35 points in 40 minutes. Jameel Warney dominated the interior with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Meanwhile Brandon Ashley finished with 19 points off the bench.
After halftime the Spurs would push their lead to 19 points with three minutes left in the third quarter. But Ashley and Dentmon helped fuel a 14-5 run to end the quarter, keeping the Legends within striking distance.
Down the stretch Austin committed countless turnovers and fouls that allowed Texas to gain control and eventually take a 111-109 lead with four minutes left.
The Spurs stayed within a point late until Bertans argued a call with officials resulting in a technical foul.
Bertans would also commit a personal foul on the ensuing possession, letting the Legends extend their lead to four points at the free throw line with 26 seconds remaining.
Texas would hold on to win by four.
The Austin Spurs (1-1) will take the next few days off before heading out on a three game road trip.
They will face the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (0-1) on Wednesday from the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. CST with the game being broadcasted on Facebook Live.
