Leaving No dOUbt

Reading, MA – In front of a small crowd of their peers - and with plenty of emotion emanating from everyone in the gym - Origins Unknown and the Crusty Muskets once again engaged in an epic showdown that went down to the wire. This time around, with the full OU squad present and a big game from Chris “Big” Johnson, they held their ground and held off the gritty Musket bunch for the statement win.

Both teams were scheduled to play other – much different - opponents, until a late notice change by the league office earlier in the week. While OU typically sticks to their run and gun style, they knew that it would be more of a down and dirty battle with the veteran crybaby crew. The Muskets, however brought back their big man Doug, and as well as a strong young point guard to change their own tempo as well.

The game started in typical fashion, with the Muskets having a tough time finding easy shots, and OU getting out to an early lead through their energy and quickness. Cap’n Mike was stuck on Leroy Johnson like gum on a shoe, while Big Johnson was definitely holding his own against the CM big guy. Offensively, the ball was being spread around the court with precision by OU. Lots of cuts, backdoors, and movement left CM with their hands on their knees and OU with a slight lead. Big Johnson was also doing his part here, posting up and generally being a force on the offensive and defensive glass. Towards the end of the half, with OU sporting a three point lead, Cap’n Mike brought the ball down the court and found a wide open Shu-ter Patel for a three. Patel just rimmed out the shot, but Danger Dan Fisher flew in and tipped the ball back to James “Stretch” Hogan IV, who found Cap’n Mike for a momentum building three pointer as time wound down.

In the second half, the Muskets were never quite able to get over the hump, as OU fought off the pressing defense and rebounded very well. The offense continued to be spread from man to man, with CM unable to focus on any one player. As the crowd built, frustration started to build as well. There was a Musket technical foul, as well as plenty of grabbing and complaining from both sides. Meanwhile, OU was willing themselves to victory through sheer effort - offensive rebounds being key. With time winding down, the Muskets had to go to foul mode, and for the most part, OU made them pay from the stripe. A steal at the end of the game sealed the win, and vaulted OU to 2-0 for the session.

Cap’n Mike ended the night 9-10 from the line, and is now 11-12 on the session.