Groningen bags Dutch Eredivisie title

GasTerra Flames Groningen took a decisive, 76-68 Game-7 win over SPM Shoeters Den Bosch to bag the 2013-14 Dutch Eredivisie title. It was a triumphant ending for the new champs in what was an exciting and hard fought series. Groningen capped off a solid season by taking home the trophy. The also ended the regular season atop of the league standings with an impressive 32-4 record. This is Groningen’s third title. The last time the team were Eredivisie champions was in 2010.

Both teams kept the game close in the opening period. Groningen ended the first quarter with a slight 21-20 edge. Scoring for both clubs slowed down as defensive intensity was increased on both ends. Den Bosch sent a few players too many to the line and Groningen widened their lead to six when the whistle signaling the end of the first half was blown.

After the break, Groningen’s sharp shooting began to pay off its dividends as they nailed more and more shots from deep. Den Bosch could not quell the three-point storm that Groningen brought forth. A huge rally by the winners proved to be the pivotal moment in the game as they left Den Bosch in the dust. Den Bosch did their best to climb out of the 19-point chasm they were in during the final quarter, but the 12 minutes were not enough for them to bridge the gap, allowing Groningen to take home the gold this season.

Groningen was led by the massive game of Jason Dourisseau, who blew up for 23 points. He was also 3-of-6 from beyond the arc and was a key contributor for his team’s outside assault. The team got a big lift from Quentin Pryor, who may not have been a high scorer, but did other important things such as grabbing 10 rebounds and handing out six assists. Cashmere Wright added 15 points.

Den Bosch’s top performer for the game was Wesley Tai who finished with 15 points and four assists. Stefan Wessels had a solid game with 12 points and eight rebounds. David Gonzalvez ended the night with 10 points and six boards.