WORCESTER Wolves eased past Bristol Flyers 87-71 in pre-season action at the University of Worcester Arena.
Newly-appointed club captain Ashton Khan started the scoreboard ticking with a basket and bonus free throw.
His back-court companion Elvisi Dusha made an immediate impact with a steal and a behind-the-head pass for Alex Navajas to convert, pushing Wolves 15-5 ahead.
Newly-signed American forward Trayvonn Palmer dived on the floor to set up a Khan triple before setting out on a nine-point burst of personal scoring, aiding a commanding 30-14 first-quarter lead.
By half-time the advantage had held firm at 47-32 with Palmer doubling his points tally.
The third quarter featured six three-pointers for the hosts including a couple each for Palmer and his fellow countryman Brandon Parrish.
A healthy 69-51 cushion entering the final quarter gave coach Paul James the opportunity to distribute court-time across his squad.
At five minutes remaining Bristol slashed the lead to 71-51.
Seven-foot centre Dallin Bachynski made his presence felt with several inside baskets, rounding off his evening with a powerful dunk from a clever Navajas assist, re-establishing Worcester’s superiority.
Palmer led the scoring with 28 points followed by Khan with 23.
Bachynski and Parrish totalled 15 apiece.
“I liked what I saw,” declared James. “We worked hard. Bristol came back at us a couple of times but we kept our composure and kept our shape.”
Wolves lost 78-70 in their opening friendly at Bristol last Friday.
They suit up again for another pre-season outing on Friday at the arena (7.30pm) when Sheffield Sharks visit.
“I’m really pleased so many people come out to see us on a Monday evening. I felt the team put on a good show for them so hopefully everyone will come back for more of the same on Friday,” added James.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here