The Palmer Dragons came into Thursday's match having lost four straight, but that streak is now in the rearview. Everything went their way against Bruce on Thursday as Palmer made off with a 68-45 win. The victory was just what Palmer needed coming off of a 85-55 defeat in their prior contest.
Palmer was led to victory by Corderio Johnson and Ja'lean Tweedy. Johnson almost dropped a double-double on 17 points and nine rebounds, while Tweedy dropped a double-double on 21 points and ten rebounds. It was the first time this season that Tweedy pulled down eight or more rebounds. The team also got some help courtesy of Samaj Barber, who scored ten points along with seven rebounds.
Bruce's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Markeevis Gladney, who scored 18 points along with five rebounds. It was the first time this season that Gladney scored 15 or more points. Another player making a difference was Cayden Jones, who scored six points along with four steals.
Palmer's win ended a four-game drought at home and bumped them up to 7-12. As for Bruce, they have traveled a rocky road recently having lost eight of their last nine games, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-13 record this season.
Palmer's homestand continues as they prepare to take on Water Valley at 7:30 p.m. on January 30th. One thing working in Palmer's favor is that they have posted big point totals in their last three contests. Bruce will be staying on the road on Monday to face off against Houlka at 7:30 p.m. on January 29th. Houlka is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 56.8 points per game this season.
