Jalen Green helped G League Ignite win its debut, taking a 109-104 win over Santa Cruz, Thursday (Manila time) at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Florida.
The 19-year-old Filipino-American had 11 points on 4-of-10 shooting from the field with five rebounds and two assists. His first G League points were of course a highlight dunk.
All in all, the young players from Ignite had 44 points.
Jonathan Kuminga had 19 points, four assists, and two rebounds, while Daishen Nix added 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists.
Kai Sotto was absent from the team, as he decided to forgo the G League season to be with Gilas.
Overwhelmed by facing vets, Ignite figured in a close first quarter against the Warriors but a huge second quarter led to a 65-50 lead for the developmental squad.
Ignite led by as much as 20 points in the second half surge spearheaded by Green. However, Santa Cruz fought back, cutting the lead down to three, 103-100, with 1:41 remaining.
Jarrett Jack led all scorers with 23 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field, 3-of-3 from downtown. Brandon Ashley chipped in 17 points and nine boards.
Jordan Poole led Santa Cruz with 22 points, while NBA veteran Jeremy Lin added 18 markers.
Ignite will next face Oklahoma City on Saturday.
