PORTLAND — The Maine Red Claws, presented by Unum, got off to a hot start and never let up, cruising to a 108-87 win over the Salt Lake City Stars Saturday night at the Portland Expo.
Maine (10-8) was led by Andrew White, who scored 25 points on 10-20 shooting, including 5-10 from downtown. Boston Celtics Two-Way Player Jabari Bird added 20 points, while Devin Williams notched another double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Salt Lake City (3-14) was led by former Red Claw Jermaine Taylor, with 19 points.
The Red Claws were hot from the opening tip, with White leading the charge. White made 4 of his first 5 three’s, as Maine cruised out to a huge lead early. The Red Claws ended the period with a 31-14 lead. The Stars mounted a comeback in the 2nd quarter, going on a quick 12-0 run to get it back to 34-26. Bird slammed home back-to-back emphatic dunks to get Maine back in control. When the dust settled on the half, Maine had a 62-44 lead, as the Claws continued to shoot proficiently from downtown.
The 3rd quarter was a slowly-paced period, with Maine out-scoring SLC 19-18. Daniel Dixon drained a three to put the Claws up 75-56. At the end of the 3rd, Maine led 81-62. The 4th quarter was more of the same. Daniel Dingle drained a three as the shot clock expired to help the Red Claws attack maintain its lead. The Red Claws cruised to victory from there.
Maine shot 47.1% from the floor (41-87), and 48.5% (16-33) from downtown. The Red Claws went 10-11 from the free throw line. Salt Lake City shot 38.6% (32-83) from the field, 24.3 % (9-37) from deep, and 14-20 from the charity stripe.
The Red Claws hit the road for three games before returning home again on Dec. 31. Maine will take on Lakeland in the annual New Year’s Eve matinee at the Expo. Tickets are on sale now by calling 207-210-6655 or visiting MaineRedClaws.com.
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