WORCESTER Wolves' first season in the British Basketball League concluded in Glasgow on Sunday with a 94-83 defeat at the Scottish Rocks.
Having been comprehensively defeated in each encounter so far this season against the play-off-bound Rocks, Wolves played with the air of a team with little to lose.
Typifying this adventurous spirit were the impressive Tom Perkes, who opened the scoring with a rangy three-pointer on his way to 22 points, and Solomon Sheard with a spectacular slam-dunk towards the end of the half.
By the end of the first quarter, Wolves trailed 28-24 and by just a single point, 45-44, as the half ended.
Coming out for the second-half, Wolves initially managed to keep the game close.
Then Rocks began to assert their authority and opened up an eight-point advantage at 54-46 midway through the third period before Wolves recorded a 7-2 scoring run to trim the deficit back to 56-53.
However, by the end of the third quarter, careless Worcester plays had been ruthlessly pounced upon by the Rocks, leading to a 67-57 deficit.
This deficit would have been greater if not for an amazing heave by Andy Harper from almost his own court, which resulted in a successful three-pointer.
Into the final period, Rocks, thanks largely to 26 points from Great Britain international Julius Joseph, easily kept Wolves at bay. The lead at its greatest was 85-65 with around five minutes remaining.
Approaching the game's conclusion, Wolves bravely battled on, no player more so than the dependable James Noel, scoring 10 of his overall 20 points during the period, supporting with his usual rock-solid rebounding. While Worcester have registered few wins this season, this was another occasion where their fighting spirit remained unbroken.
Coach Josh Cooprider said: "The guys gave 100 per cent which was really good. It has been a tough year, a learning experience. We know what we need to do and now the real work begins."
Club secretary Dave Smith said: "The Wolves, though sometimes well behind in a game, have always fought on and often clawed back part of their opponents' lead to restore some pride.
"This first season in the BBL has been a very tough baptism of fire for the Worcester side and they have acquitted themselves well even when heavily out-gunned.
"I am very proud of them and of the loyal fans who have kept coming back week after week to watch them."
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