The in-state rivals went head-to-head the entire night vying to one-up each other to secure the win and maintain the number three spot for the Central Division's standings. The Gold ultimately earned the W as they defeated the Cruise 96-94. The Gold got off to a hot start shooting 52.6% (10-19) from the field in the first quarter, compared to 29.2% (3-11) for the Cruise, pushing Grand Rapids to a slight edge of 26-19 going into the second quarter. Although the Gold was able to keep that momentum, connecting 47.5% (19-14) of their shots in the first half compared to 38% (19-50) for the Cruise, Grand Rapids' 11 turnovers gave the away team 14 points, resulting in a mere 1 point lead for the home team going into the second half. The intensity increased in a heated see-saw fourth quarter, as both teams were in reach of the win. The Gold started the fourth with a 6-0 run, extending their lead to 7, but the Cruise's tough defense and ability to hit tough shots brought the game to a tie with three minutes left. With the overall stat line being balanced on both ends, the Gold prevailed with their consistent shooting performance, at 52.9% (9-17) in the final quarter compared to 44.4% (8-18) for the Cruise. Davon Reed was the star on the Grand Rapids team tonight, with a game-high 23 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals. Big man Giorgi Bezhanishvili contributed an impressive 22 points and 9 rebounds. Lance Stephenson added another 15 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists to the team's statline, along with Nik Stauskas's 12 points 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The Cruise had contributions from several players including the away-team's high scorer Cassius Stanley, with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Pistons two-way player Jamorko Pickett contributed a double-double with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists. Other Cruise players in double figures were Jaylen Johnson (13 pts, 8 rebs), Cheik Diallo (12 pts, 9 rebs) and Trayvon Palmer (11pts, 4 rebs and 2 assists). The Gold will seek another win against the Cruise tomorrow, November 24 at the DeltaPlex Arena in Grand Rapids, MI. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m. EST. Watch live on ESPN + . Grand Rapids Gold News Release
