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San Jose Earthquakes vs. Austin FC, October 21, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Austin FC at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Oct. 21, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Austin FC 1
Quakes clinch Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs in front of sellout crowd

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes qualified for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in three years after drawing 1-1 with Austin FC on Saturday night at PayPal Park.

The Quakes opened the scoring in the 17th minute from forward Cristian Espinoza. A crucial interception from Jeremy Ebobisse set up Espinoza to fire his shot into the bottom corner. Austin would find the equalizer in the 32nd minute to finish the first half 1-1. The Quakes would outshoot their opponent 20 to four and hold onto the point to earn a playoff berth.

The Earthquakes will now prepare for their first playoff match against Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday, Oct. 25. Kickoff from Children’s Mercy Park is slated for 6:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass (Apple TV), as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTES

The Earthquakes have qualified for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2020.

The Earthquakes finish the 2023 MLS regular season with a 10-10-13 record (43 pts), sitting in ninth place in the 14-team Western Conference.

The Quakes now hold a 2-0-5 record against Austin FC, including a 1-0-2 record on the road. They have never lost to Austin FC in seven MLS matches.

Cristian Espinoza netted the first goal of the game for his 13th goal of the season. Espinoza now has 26 goal contributions (13g, 13a), contributing to 66.7% of the Earthquakes’ total goals this season (39). This percentage of involvement ranks first in club history and ties for first in the league this season. Espinoza is now also tied with teammate Jeremy Ebobisse for fourth most goals in club history.

Jeremy Ebobisse tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career.

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Austin FC
Saturday, October 21, 2023 – PayPal Park; San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 18,000 (sellout)
Man of the Match: Cristian Espinoza

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Cristian Espinoza (Jeremy Ebobisse) 17’
ATX (1-1) – Owen Wolff (Nick Lima, Sebastian Drussi) 32’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Niko Tsakiris (caution) 22’
ATX – Jhojan Valencia (caution) 66’
SJ – Cristian Espinoza (caution) 72’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco (Paul Marie 57’), Jonathan Mensah, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Jackson Yueill (C), Niko Tsakiris (Carlos Gruezo 57’), Matthew Hoppe; Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse (Tommy Thompson 88’), Cade Cowell (Jamiro Monteiro 57’).

Substitutes not used: Emi Ochoa (GK), Ayo Akinola, Tanner Beason, Judson, Jack Skahan.

SHOTS: 20; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 4; CORNER KICKS: 15; SAVES: 0

AUSTIN FC: Brad Stuver; Leo Vaisanen, Jon Gallagher (Adam Lundkvist 69’), Julio Cascante, Nick Lima; Jhojan Valencia (Dani Pereira 78’), Alex Ring, Owen Wolff (Will Bruin 78’); Emiliano Rigoni, Sebastian Driussi (C) (Memo Rodriguez 86’), Ethan Finlay (Matt Hedges 69’).

Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Brendan Craig, Hector Jimenez, Gyasi Zardes.

SHOTS: 4; SHOTS ON GOAL: 1; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 7

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On the team’s work tonight:
“We are not over-celebrating anything. We were unlucky not to score, but I’m proud of my guys to push it and show a winning mentality and winning actions. Being over the [playoff] line is a great validation to the team, the staff, and the fans’ hard work and desire to get better. I see a lot of progress. We want to take it to the next step, and we have the opportunity. This is a league where there are always upsets in playoffs and we need to answer the question now of whether we want to be one of those teams.”

On the expectations vs. Sporting Kansas City:
“There is a lot more potential in us. I believe in this group and this foundation of players, and I believe that we can be one of those teams that other teams don’t want to play against. You go in that locker room; that’s a hungry group of players. We have more ambition. This is a really united group, and I am hopeful that we will have a quick recovery for Kansas. Sporting Kansas City is a good team. They are very well coached. They have an intense environment. This is going to be a battle, but it is also one that we are not afraid of.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA

On what clinching the playoff spot means for the fans:
“It’s amazing. It’s amazing. The fans have been supporting us the entire season, and us on being on the field, we really feel the support. That’s been so important for us, and it was an important year for me personally, too. We wanted to win the game for the fans and finish higher in the table, but what’s important is that we qualified for the playoffs.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL

On qualifying for the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs:
“We said it at the beginning of preseason that this is what we wanted to do. This is where we wanted to be. You could see a lot of fight especially during this game. I’m proud of the guys for what they did. We knew we had to be aggressive and go for it right away. We pushed the game, and it was a draw but we’re ready for playoffs and we’ll see. We’re excited for Wednesday. We regroup tomorrow, get ready to go Monday Tuesday and battle on Wednesday.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Maquiñana – Director , Communications
rmaquinana@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.243.8523
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United, September 2, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept 2, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 1
San Jose draw at home, prepare for D.C. United next week

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United FC played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday night at PayPal Park. Forward Cade Cowell netted his first of the season to tie the match after Minnesota scored the opening goal.

The Quakes conceded an early goal but rallied with a 17th minute equalizer from Cowell. Jackson Yueill collected the ball at the top of the box after a corner kick to find Cowell on the left, whose shot deflected into the bottom corner of the net . The goal was his first of the season and 10th of his MLS career. Cowell is now the 11th teenager in MLS history to reach 10 regular season goals.

Both sides traded blows in the second half but neither team could find the winning goal. The Earthquakes nearly converted a diving header from Jamiro Monteiro in the 56th minute and Minnesota had a goal called back after video review for a handball four minutes later.

The Earthquakes will now prepare to travel to face D.C. United on Saturday, Sept. 9. Kickoff from Audi Field is slated for 4:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTES

The Earthquakes now hold an 9-9-9 record (36 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit in eighth place in the 14-team Western Conference, but only four points from third place.The Quakes hold a 5-4-3 record against Minnesota United FC, including a 3-2-2 record at home. Midfielder Jackson Yueill tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career. Jackson Yueill made his 171st appearance for the Quakes, tied for fifth most appearances in club history with Joe Cannon.

MATCH INFORMATION

San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Minnesota United FC
Saturday, September 2, 2023 – PayPal Park, San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 16,151
Man of the Match: Cade Cowell

Scoring Summary:
MIN (1-0) – Teemu Pukki (Emanuel Reynoso) 4’
SJ (1-1) – Cade Cowell (Jackson Yueill) 16’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 31’
MIN – Emanuel Reynoso (caution) 40’
MIN – Michael Boxall (caution) 85’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco, Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) (Michael Baldisimo 90+3’), Jamiro Monteiro (Niko Tsakiris 81’); Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse, Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 90+3’)

Substitutes not used: JT Marcinkowski (GK), Ayo Akinola, Matthew Hoppe, Jonathan Mensah, Tommy Thompson

SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 6

MINNESOTA UNITED FC: Dayne St. Clair; Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall, Zarek Valentin; Joseph Rosales, Jan Gregus, Hassani Dotson, Emanuel Reynoso, Wil Trapp (C); Teemu Pukki (Mender Garcia 81’), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (Ethan Bristow 64’)

Substitutes not used: Eric Dick (GK), Bakaye Dibassy, Franco Fragapane, Mender Garcia, Emmanuel Iwe, Sang Bin Jeong, Brent Kallman, Devin Padelford

SHOTS: 14; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 5

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s performance against Minnesota United FC:
“I thought we had much better positions while attacking in the second half, to neutralize [Emanuel] Reynoso, compared to the first half. The first goal came from poor positions while attacking, where we were on the wrong side of [Reynoso] and he was able to thread a pass into [Teemu] Pukki. I thought we had better positions while attacking in the second half.”

On Cade Cowell’s performance tonight and callup to the U.S. National Team:
“Cade is a player that can vertically hurt anybody. We’ll miss his verticality, and we’ll miss speed. I am really happy for him to get his goal tonight, really proud of him. He’s wanted it really bad. Anything can happen when you are shooting on frame, and a goal is a goal.”S

AN JOSE EARTHQUAKES CAPTAIN JACKSON YUEILL

On tonight’s performance and goals:
“I think we came out with the right urgency. I think that built up throughout the game. Our message at halftime was to be a little bit more aggressive, get more runs in behind, get more balls in behind and open up the field a little more. I think we did a good job of recovering more balls in their half and in the midfield and transitioning quick. I think we were unlucky to not get a goal but that we’re moving in the right direction still. Just looking to be more clinical in and around the box.”

On the end of season playoff push:
“We’ve started the season well and have been playing well the whole year. We’re going to keep doing what we’ve been doing and keep trying the things that we’ve been trying. We dominate, we create chances, we create opportunities and it’s about finishing those chances. Our conversations and mentality in the locker room is not if we make playoffs, it’s when. We go into each game ready to fight and ready to win. These last seven games will be our test but we have full faith in the group that we are going to accomplish our goals.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Vancouver Whitecaps, September 4, 2022

Vancouver Whitecaps Forward CHRISTIAN DÁJOME (11) shields the ball against San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Vancouver Whitecaps at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept. 4, 2022
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, Vancouver Whitecaps FC 0
Quakes earn second straight victory at PayPal Park; Rodrigues makes MLS debut in shutout
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2-0 on Sunday evening at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif. Center back Rodrigues made his MLS debut and led the Quakes to their first shutout victory since May 5.

San Jose jumped out to a very early lead, scoring in the fourth minute. Cade Cowell dribbled past two defenders before playing a lateral pass towards the center of the penalty area. An onrushing Jackson Yueill redirected the ball towards Jeremy Ebobisse, who curled his first-timed shot into the back of the net.

The Quakes were able to double their advantage before halftime. Jamiro Monteiro played a long switch to Cristian Espinoza on the right wing before darting to the top of the penalty area. He received a return pass from Espinoza and hit a low left-footed shot just out of reach of goalkeeper Thomas Hasal.Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made six saves to keep Vancouver off the scoresheet and earn his third shutout of the season.

The Earthquakes will now prepare for two back-to-back road matches, first traveling to Ohio for the Quakes’ first-ever road match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, Sept. 10. The match will kick off from TQL Stadium at 4:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 1050 (English), and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 7-12-9 record (30 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.San Jose is now 9-10-12 all-time vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, including an 6-1-8 record at home.The Earthquakes are now 7-8-6 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Forward Jeremy Ebobisse scored his 15th goal of the season and 42nd of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning goal of the season and sixth of his MLS career.

Midfielder Jamiro Monteiro scored his fourth goal of the season and 13th of his MLS career. He has now tied his single-season career high in goals (2019).

Forward Cade Cowell tallied an assist on Ebobisse’s goal, marking his fifth assist of the season and 12th of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning assist of the season and second of his MLS career.

Midfielder Jackson Yueill tallied an assist on Ebobisse’s goal, marking his second assist of the season and 12th of his MLS career. It also marked his first game-winning assist of the season and fourth of his MLS career.

Midfielder Cristian Espinoza tallied an assist on Monteiro’s goal, marking his 12th assist of the season and 42nd of his MLS career. He is now two assists away from tying Eddie Lewis for the most assists in a single season in club history. Espinoza is also now two assists away from tying Richard Mulrooney for the second most assists in club history.

Defender Rodrigues made his MLS debut, starting and playing 90 minutes.

Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski made six saves and recorded his third shutout of the season and 13th of his MLS career. Tonight marked San Jose’s first shutout since June 11 (0-0 at NSH), and first at PayPal Park since May 7 (1-0 vs. COL). It also marked San Jose’s first multi-goal shutout victory since Oct. 20, 2021 (4-0 vs. ATX).The Earthquakes are now unbeaten in five straight home matches against Whitecaps FC (3-0-2).

MATCH INFORMATION2022
MLS Regular Season

San Jose Earthquakes 2 – 0 Vancouver Whitecaps FC

Sunday, Sept. 4, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.

Attendance: 13,211

Man of the Match: JT MarcinkowskiScoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jeremy Ebobisse (Jackson Yueill, Cade Cowell) 4’
SJ (2-0) – Jamiro Monteiro (Cristian Espinoza) 34’

Misconduct Summary:
VAN – Andres Cubas (caution) 31’
VAN – Ryan Gauld (caution) 43’
VAN – Tristan Blackmon (caution) 62’
SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 90+1’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Tanner Beason, Nathan, Rodrigues, Tommy Thompson (Paul Marie 81); Eric Remedi (Jan Gregus 70), Jackson Yueill ©, Jamiro Monteiro; Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 70), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Oskar Ågren, Judson, Shea Salinas, Jack Skahan, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 5; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 6

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC: Thomas Hasal; Ranko Veselinovic, Tristan Blackmon, Javain Brown (Marcus Godinho 66); Alessando Schöpf (Sebastian Berhalter 78), Julian Gressel, Andres Cubas, Ryan Gauld, Russell Teibert © (Leonard Owusu 78); Cristian Dajome (Pedro Vite 53), Brian White (Toisant Ricketts 78).
Substitutes not used: Cody Cropper (GK), Florian Jungwirth, Jake Nerwinski, Ryan Raposo,

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 11; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 3SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO

On defender Rodrigues making his MLS debut:
“He is a physical and powerful player that could also help us out with aerial balls. With the ball, he was very comfortable today. He had a very good game defensively and offensively. Obviously physically he is not in the best of conditions but will improve step by step.”

On the team’s performance tonight:
“I’ve said it before, these guys are pretty good at understanding the game plan. Sometimes we win and sometimes not, but they are good. We knew that Vancouver was going to present this 3-4-3 with those wingbacks divided a little bit more and leave the three center backs a little bit behind. We knew that as soon as we could rotate the ball and create some pressure, we had to go for the one vs. one, whether with Cristian [Espinoza], Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], Cade [Cowell], or Jamiro [Monteiro] charging and find the ball to the wings. They read it very well and I think I was sitting on the bench for the majority of the first half.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JACKSON YUEILL

On the Quakes’ first goal:
“We talked in training during the week about Cade’s [Cowell] speed and his ability to break out and get past and when we did that, we needed runners in the box. Once I saw him going, I saw Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse] drift to the back a little bit and I decided to attack that space. The ball was a little bit behind me and I knew Jebo was in that area, and I didn’t know exactly where. I tried flicking it if he was a little bit in front of me, and luckily it went right to him and he had a phenomenal finish, so all the credit goes to him because it’s a tough goal, and to Cade as well because of his speed and the correct path he chose to do. Great team goal and credit to Jebo.”

On Rodrigues’ debut and performance tonight:
“It’s never easy for someone to come to a place, not speak the language, only have a week of training and step onto the field, but I thought he performed really well. He’s got a great partner there with Nathan and was able to communicate and help him throughout the week, get him acclimated to the team and the guys quickly and [Rodrigues] has done a great job. I think you can tell his defensive abilities are really, really good. He made really, really good tackles and his timing is really good. The more he’s with us, the more he’ll get used to the guys. His confidence will grow. I thought he was really good tonight and we’re happy to have him here in San Jose.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Jake Pisani – Director, Communications
jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.483.0701

Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo, July 17, 2022

San Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) and the starting eleven huddle prior to the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
July 17, 2022
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Houston Dynamo FC 2
Quakes’ home unbeaten streak snapped at eight
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Houston Dynamo FC 2-1 on Sunday evening at PayPal Park. The loss, which was San Jose’s first at home since the season opener on Feb. 26, snaps the club’s eight-match unbeaten streak at PayPal Park.Following a scoreless first half, the Earthquakes broke through in the 53rd minute courtesy of team captain Jackson Yueill. Cristian Espinoza played a free kick into the box, which was headed goalward by Tommy Thompson. The slow, looping ball bounced off the crossbar before falling to Yueill for the first-timed finish.Houston then scored the equalizer in the 71st minute.San Jose appeared to re-gain the lead when Jeremy Ebobisse’s right-footed shot from close range beat goalkeeper Steve Clark, but a last-ditch goal-line clearance kept the score tied. Houston then took the lead moments later through Thor Ulfarsson.Despite several opportunities to find an equalizer late in the match, the Quakes couldn’t find a second goal.The Earthquakes will now prepare to host Spain’s RC Celta de Vigo in an international friendly on Wednesday, July 20. The match will kick off from PayPal Park at 7:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on ESPN+.

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes currently hold a 5-8-7 record (22 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.

San Jose is now 9-16-4 all-time vs. Houston Dynamo FC, including a 7-5-3 record at home.Tonight’s result sees the Quakes snap their unbeaten streak at three and their home unbeaten streak at eight.The Earthquakes are now 5-4-4 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Midfielder Jackson Yueill scored his fourth goal of the season and 11th goal of his MLS career.MATCH INFORMATION

2022 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 2 Houston Dynamo FC
Sunday, July 17, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 13,445
Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jackson Yueill (unassisted) 53’
HOU (1-1) – Sebastian Ferreira (Fafa Picault) 71’
HOU (2-1) – Thor Ulfarsson (Darwin Quintero) 76’
Misconduct Summary:
HOU – Tim Parker (caution) 28’
HOU – Matias Vera (caution) 43’
SJ – Jamiro Monteiro (caution) 45’
HOU – Fafa Picault (caution) 90’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Paul Marie, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson; Eric Remedi (Jack Skahan 83), Jamiro Monteiro, Jackson Yueill ©; Benji Kikanović (Cade Cowell 71), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Oskar Ågren, Ousseni Bouda, Jan Gregus, Will Richmond, Niko Tsakiris.
SHOTS: 16; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 6; CORNER KICKS: 8; SAVES: 2

HOUSTON DYNAMO FC: Steve Clark; Adam Lundkvist, Tim Parker, Teenage Hadebe, Griffin Dorsey; Hector Herrera ©, Adalberto Carrasquilla (Ethan Bartlow 90+2), Matias Vera (Sebastian Ferreira 69); Fafa Picault (Darwin Ceren 90+1), Darwin Quintero (Memo Rodriguez 80), Thor Ulfarsson (Tyler Pasher 80).Substitutes not used: Michael Nelson (GK), Sam Junqua, Zarek Valentin, Zeca.
SHOTS: 13; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 4

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO

On the mistakes committed tonight:
“I think the mistake [on the first goal] was an individual mistake, and on the second goal we had to keep the ball out when there wasn’t a clear moment to build up, and that’s it. I don’t think it was because we were building up in the back that Houston had those opportunities. I think we committed individual mistakes and that’s why it’s a very simple analysis today.”

On why he didn’t make more substitutions:
“When you look at the team that we finished with, we had Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], who has 11 goals. You have Jamiro [Monteiro], an amazing quality player. We tried to be more offensive by bringing Jackson [Yueill] back as a ‘six’ and putting in Jack Skahan in his place, and with Cade [Cowell] and Cristian [Espinoza] trying to find crosses or individual actions on top. Shea Salinas has a Covid situation. We missed Marcos Lopez [due to yellow card accumulation]. Judson is injured because he has an old injury bothering him. So that’s all we have.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JAMIRO MONTEIRO
On what Houston did to shut San Jose’s midfield down:
“I didn’t feel like they were making it hard for me. They were really compact, so we didn’t have a lot of space in the midfield, but it wasn’t like they were hard on me. We didn’t have enough space in this game and a lot of our balls were coming from the side instead of the midfield.”

On how he will move past this result:
“I just forget this game. It already happened. We lost. Now we’re onto next week. We still have 14 games. Tomorrow is a new day. We have a new week, new chances. Every week is a new chance for us.”####

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Columbus Crew, March 5, 2022

A beautiful day for Major League Soccer at the match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Columbus Crew at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
March 5, 2022

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 3, Columbus Crew 3
Quakes play a man down for 57+ minutes; Calvo scores two, including stoppage-time equalizer
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes earned a dramatic 3-3 draw against the Columbus Crew on Saturday afternoon at PayPal Park.
After taking an early 1-0 lead on a Cristian Espinoza penalty kick, San Jose dropped to 10 men when Jamiro Monteiro was shown a straight red card in the 33rd minute. Columbus took advantage by scoring three unanswered goals, including two by Lucas Zelarayan, to take a 3-1 lead into the final 15 minutes of the match.
Francisco Calvo got the Quakes within striking distance by heading home a Jan Gregus free kick in the 84th minute. The two newcomers to the club connected again six minutes into stoppage time, with Calvo heading in the equalizer off a Gregus corner kick.
The Earthquakes will now hit the road for their first away match of the season against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, March 12. Kickoff from Subaru Park is set for 4:30 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on NBC Sports Bay Area Plus, KNBR 1050, and 1370 KZSF.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 0-1-1 record (1 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.
The Quakes now hold a 15-20-9 all-time record against the Columbus Crew, including a 12-6-6 record at home.
San Jose remains undefeated at PayPal Park when hosting Columbus (2-0-2).
The Quakes scored two goals while down a man for the first time since June 29, 2013 vs. LA.
Midfielder Cristian Espinoza scored his first goal of the season and ninth of his MLS career.
Defender Francisco Calvo scored two goals, his first two goals of the season and 11th and 12th of his MLS career.
Midfielder Jan Gregus tallied two assists, his first two assists of the season and 20th and 21st assists of his MLS career.

MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular SeasonSan Jose Earthquakes 3 – 3 Columbus Crew March 5, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.Attendance: 12,888Man of the Match: Francisco Calvo

Scoring Summary:SJ (1-0) – Cristian Espinoza (penalty) 9’CLB (1-1) – Lucas Zelarayan (Steven Moreira) 40’CLB (2-1) – Gyasi Zardes (Derrick Etienne Jr.) 68’CLB (3-1) – Lucas Zelarayan (direct free kick) 73’SJ (3-2) – Francisco Calvo (Jan Gregus) 84’SJ (3-3) – Francisco Calvo (Jan Gregus) 90+6′
Misconduct Summary:SJ – Eric Remedi (caution) 16’SJ – Jamiro Monteiro (ejection) 33’CLB – Pedro Santos (caution) 45+6’SJ – Judson (caution) 75’SJ – Benji Kikanović (caution) 79’CLB – James Igbekeme (caution) 83’CLB – Lucas Zelarayan (caution) 90’CLB – Jalil Anibaba (caution) 90+5′

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Francisco Calvo, Jackson Yueill, Paul Marie (Tommy Thompson 79); Marcos Lopez, Jan Gregus, Eric Remedi (Judson 46), Cristian Espinoza, Chofis (Cade Cowell 46), Jamiro Monteiro; Jeremy Ebobisse (Benji Kikanović 72). Substitutes not used: Tanner Beason, Matt Bersano, Ousseni Bouda, Siad Haji, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 7; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 15; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 4

COLUMBUS CREW: Eloy Room; Jonathan Mensah, Milos Degenek, Pedro Santos, Steven Moreira, Darlington Nagbe, Artur (James Igbekeme 65), Lucas Zelarayan (Jalil Anibaba 90+1), Yaw Yeboah (Aidan Morris 89), Derrick Etienne Jr., Miguel Berry (Gyasi Zardes 65).
Substitutes not used: Evan Bush, Marlon Hairston, Erik Hurtado, Alexandru Matan, Will Sands.

SHOTS: 19; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 16; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 1

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On set pieces and how they thrive on them:“Our new arrivals have good service and are dangerous in the air. Fortunately, today they were able to execute both plays. We still have to keep working on our finishing. Today’s match was really difficult because [Columbus] scored four goals in its previous game. When we were 11v11, we were dominating the game. We played a man down against them for about 70 minutes. The moment we went down 3-1, we decided to go man to man and take more risks. We got our reward for the effort. With 10 players, we had two or three chances based off our build-up play. So, I’m really happy for the players and fans who came out today, and for us as well because we dedicate a lot of time studying the opponent and the club as well.”
On adjusting tactics mid-game and how he’ll approach Philadelphia:“I understood that the game today should’ve been played with that. Especially due to the strategy of Columbus, this is a system that we already have that’s pretty well oiled for us. We’re not going to get caught up with one system. We’re looking for variations in order to get more results than last year. Today, we thought that the game should be played with that formation. We’ll see what we decide for the upcoming match.”
On substitutions at halftime:“I think the players interpreted what we they had to do well. The game required that we make changes. We had to play in a different way that we spoke about at halftime. I was obligated to take [Eric] Remedi off because the ref was likely to send him off. I was liking how he was playing. But once I noticed that every time he would challenge for the ball, there would be a foul and I saw the red card coming quickly. Being a man down, we added different characteristics out wide. Without so much passing quality and dribbles that we have in Chofis, we decided to play with more aggression and speed for the counterattack. The players did well. I always say the same thing with Cade, he’s a young guy that some day, after having many more games played, when he has that chance that he had today, he’s going to shoot instead of cutting inside. But that’s the time that every player needs to become a better player.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER FRANCISCO CALVO
On scoring his goals:“This is just not about Francisco Calvo. This is about the San Jose Earthquakes, about this team. I’m happy for the two goals for sure and to help the team tie the game, but I need to talk about the effort of the team. Being down 3-1 and tying the game is amazing and hopefully we can go from here.”
On the team’s mentality playing with 10 men:“It was tough because we were almost 70 minutes with a man down. And it’s tough, in high level it’s tough to play with 10 [men]. About the goals, I just believed in my teammates, I know they cross really well. If it wasn’t me, I was pretty sure it was another guy who was going to score. Thank God he gave me these two goals and I could help the team. It’s a good point. When we play at home, we always want to win here, but we tied against a really good team. Remember that they just scored four goals in their last game. I don’t think they overplayed us either. They had two golazos from [Lucas] Zelarayan, and sometimes you can’t do anything against that.”
On the team’s resilience today:“Yeah, that’s the right word: resilience. That’s a really good word. And everything starts with [Matias Almeyda] and his coaching staff. I think the spirit that he transmits, the will, the anger, the idea of never giving up, it all starts with him. We then transmit that one by one and in the end, we move onward with that as a team. I’m very happy for scoring my goals, grateful to God, but this is a job done by the entire team. It’s San Jose who earned the score and it’s a point that we didn’t want to let go, but we celebrate it due to the circumstances. We played around 70 minutes with a man down and it’s very difficult playing like that at the highest level.”

####

Contact:
Jake Pisani – 408-556-7774 – jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
Pedro Ortiz – 408-556-3415 – portiz@sjearthquakes.com

Reno Bighorns vs. Santa Cruz Warriors, February 24, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard ISAIAH COUSINS (10) during player introductions before the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

The Reno Bighorns welcome Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) back for the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) shoots over Santa Cruz Warrior Center CHRIS OBEKPA (21) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Guard CLEANTHONY EARLY (7) shoots a layup against Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) as Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) and Santa Cruz Warrior Center CHRIS OBEKPA (21) watch during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Forward LADONTAE HENTON (13) shoots a jumper during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard KENDALL MARSHALL (14) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Guard TERRENCE DRISDOM (11) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

The Lady Bighorn Dancers perform during a break of the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Center JAMES SOUTHERLAND (1) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard GARY NEAL (11) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Center JAMES SOUTHERLAND (1) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard PE’SHON HOWARD (5) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Forward KADEEM JACK (2) drives against Santa Cruz Warrior Guard CLEANTHONY EARLY (7) and Santa Cruz Warrior Forward LADONTAE HENTON (13) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Guard DAVID STOCKTON (4) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Guard PHIL PRESSEY (26) drives against Reno Bighorn Guard DAVID STOCKTON (4) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Center DAMIAN JONES (5) attempts to block the shot of Reno Bighorn Guard ISAIAH COUSINS (10) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Reno Bighorn Forward WILL DAVIS II (0) shoots around Santa Cruz Warrior Center DENNIS CLIFFORD (42) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Santa Cruz Warrior Center DENNIS CLIFFORD (42) drives around Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Santa Cruz Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California

Friday, Feb. 24, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS COMEBACK FROM 25 POINT DEFICIT TO DEFEAT THE WARRIORS

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —- The Reno Bighorns (13-23) defeated the Santa Cruz Warriors (19-17) 109-108 Friday night at the Golden 1 Center. The Bighorns established a new single-game franchise attendance record with a crowd of 5,106 packing Golden 1 Center in the first-ever D-League game on Sacramento’s home floor.

Gary Neal (12-20 FG) led the Bighorns with 41 points and eight rebounds while Sacramento Kings Assignment Player Georgios Papagiannis recorded his sixth double-double of the season with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Reggie Hearn notched 17 points and two rebounds. .

James Southerland paced the Warriors with 27 points and 11 rebounds while Phil Pressey had 12 points six rebounds and 10 assists.

The teams kept the score close opening the first frame before the Warriors went on a run to hold an 11-point advantage at the midway point, the Warriors would hold the advantage over the Bighorns through the entirety of the period. Despite the Bighorns outscoring the Warriors 26-20 in the second frame, Santa Cruz went into the locker room with a 17-point cushion. The Warriors led by as much as 25 in the second frame.

The Bighorns went on a 17-7 run coming out of the break to cut the deficit to seven at the 6:41 mark. Reno would gain momentum and get within five points after back-to-back triples from Hearn and Neal. The Bighorns went into the final frame trailing Santa Cruz 77-68.

With 7:01 remaining in the final frame, Reno went on a 13-6 run to tie the Warriors after a pull-up jump-shot from Neal at the 3:09 mark. The lone lead change in the game would come from a made free throw from Papagiannis at the 2:31 mark. The Warriors would tie the Bighorns one final time off a made three-pointer from Henton, but would never take back a lead. In the final second of regulation, a made three-point shot from Scott Wood brought the Warriors within one point with time expiring, resulting in a Bighorns victory. Gary Neal scored 23 of his 41 points in the final frame.

The Bighorns outscored the Warriors 72-54 in the second half and finished the night going 100% from the free-throw line.

Reno will host the Windy City Bulls on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 11 a.m. for their 2017 Education Game.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns:

The Reno Bighorns are a member of the NBA Development League, the official minor league of the NBA. The Bighorns are affiliated with the Sacramento Kings. Season tickets for the 2016-17 season are on sale now! For more information, call the Bighorns front office at 775-853-8220 or visit RenoBighorns.com. Follow us on Twitter @renobighorns and “like” the Bighorns on Facebook at facebook.com/bighornshoops. The NBA Development League is the NBA’s official minor league, preparing players, coaches, officials, trainers, and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory. Featuring 22 teams with direct affiliations with NBA franchises for the 2016-17 season, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. An all-time high 38 percent of all NBA players at the end of the 2015-16 season boasted NBA D-League experience. In fostering the league’s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA D-League Cares programs. Fans can watch all NBA D-League games on nbadleague.com.

Reno Bighorns vs. Salt Lake City Stars, February 3, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard CAM GRIFFIN (4) defends against Salt Lake City Stars Forward JJ O’BRIEN (22) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) drives past Salt Lake City Stars Guard JERMAINE TAYLOR (24) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard REGGIE HEARN (37) shoots a layup against Salt Lake City Stars Guard SUNDIATA GAINES (15) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

The Lady Bighorn Dancers perform during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Friday, Feb. 3, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS FALL TO THE STARS

RENO, Nev. —- The Reno Bighorns (11-20) fell 121-104 to the Salt Lake City Stars (10-20) Friday night at the in front of a near sold out crowd at the Reno Events Center.

Sacramento Kings Assignment Player Georgios Papagiannis led the Bighorns with 22 points and five rebounds while Pe’Shon Howard notched 20 points and five rebounds. Kings affiliate player Isaiah Cousins scored 20 points, grabbed five rebounds and added five assists.

Sundiata Gaines paced the Stars logging a double-double with 27 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds while Joel Bolomboy, who is on assignment from the Utah Jazz had 20 points, 17 rebounds and three assists.

The Stars took control of the game early going on a 17-5 run to lead the Bighorns by 14 at the 7:25 mark. The Bighorns would get within six points before the Stars ran away with the lead to have a 32-18 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The Stars kept the Bighorns at bay with a double-digit lead until the Reggie Hearn sunk a triple with 6:42 left in play in the first half to cut the deficit to nine. The Stars held the advantage over the Bighorns the remainder of the frame having a 12-point cushion heading into the locker room. Papagiannis ended the first half with 14 points.

The Bighorns went on a 9-2 run coming out of the break to edge the Stars 64-63 behind a three from Howard at the 9:23 mark. The Stars responded with a late 22-4 run to ensure a 14-point advantage heading into the final frame.

Howard opened the fourth quarter with a jumper before Will Davis stepped to the line to make a free throw to cut the deficit to 11. The Bighorns were unable to overcome the Stars lead, ultimately dropping 121-104 to Salt Lake City.

The Bighorns will next travel to Erie to face the Bayhawks on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 4 P.M PST.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns:

Reno Bighorns vs. Iowa Energy, February 1, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard RENALDO MAJOR (7) shoots a layup during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Iowa Energy at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard MARK TYNDALE (1) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Iowa Energy at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

The Reno Lady Bighorn Dancers perform during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Iowa Energy at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

HOWARD’S SEASON-HIGH NOT ENOUGH TO HOLD OFF THE ENERGY

RENO, Nev. —- The Reno Bighorns (11-19) fell to the Iowa Energy (7-21) 106-104 Wednesday night at the Reno Events Center.

Pe’Shon Howard led the Bighorns with 29 points and three assists as Reggie Hearn notched 19 points and seven rebounds. Sacramento Kings Assignment Player Georgios Papagiannis followed Hearn closely scoring 18 points and grabbing four rebounds.

Cartier Martin paced the Energy with 24 points and eight rebounds while Wayne Selden and Wade Baldwin poured in 20 points each.

After a tight first quarter, the Energy led by one, 30-29. Howard led all scorers in the first frame, netting 15 of his 29 points on 6-7 shooting.

The head-to-head battle carried through to a tightly-contested second frame with the Bighorns winning the quarter 26-23. Neither team led by more than four points in the frame, despite the quarter seeing five lead changes and three ties. The Bighorns went into the locker room at the half leading the Energy 55-53.

The Bighorns held a nine-point lead over the Energy after going on a 9-2 run behind a triple from Hearn in the opening two minutes of the third quarter. The Bighorn would not relinquish the lead in the frame, despite the Energy edging the Bighorns by one twice in the frame. The Bighorns held a one-point advantage over the Energy to enter the final quarter.

Baldwin stepped to the line after being fouled by Howard in the opening seconds of fourth quarter, tying the score at 78. The Bighorns pulled away by four points at the 10:23 mark. The two teams exchanged the lead five times and tied four times in nine minutes with the Bighorns having a 104-103 lead with 54.4 left in play. Martin, Selden and Wes Washpun both went to the line after being fouled to make one-point each to retake control of the lead. The Bighorns would in-bound the ball with .8 left in play but would not get a shot off in time, giving the Energy a 106-104 victory.

The Bighorns will host the Salt Lake City Stars on Friday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns:

Reno Bighorns vs. Salt Lake City Stars, January 29, 2017

The Sacramento Kings Dancers perform during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard MARK TYNDALE (1) drives around Salt Lake City Stars Forward MICHALE KYSER (20) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Salt Lake City Stars at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017

Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS COME UP SHORT AGAINST THE STARS

RENO, Nev. —- The Reno Bighorns (11-18) fell to the Salt Lake City Stars (8-20) 107-106 Sunday night in front of a sellout at the Reno Events Center.

Reggie Hearn led the Bighorns with his season-high 30 points and added 10 rebounds and two assists while Kings affiliate player Isaiah Cousins notched 26 points, four rebounds and 10 assists. Renaldo Major totaled 17 points in the Sunday night contest.

Jermaine Taylor paced the Stars with 27 points and six rebounds while Tyrone Wallace scored 26 points, four rebounds and five assists.

The Bighorns opened up the first frame going on a 9-3 run to hold the advantage over the Stars at the 8:00 mark. The Spurs responded with a 10-4 run, tying the game at 13 a piece at the mid-way point of the first frame. The Stars held a 10-point advantage over the Bighorns to enter the second frame.

The Stars would hold their double-digit lead over the Bighorns before the Bighorns went on a 17-6 run behind a triple from Major to take a 44-43 lead at the 4:30 mark. The teams would exchange the lead times in four minutes with Reno holding a 50-49 lead at the half.

The battle was head-to-head in the third frame. Despite Cousins scoring 11 of his 26 points in the quarter, the Stars won the frame 31-25. Neither team led by more than five points in the frame, the quarter saw nine lead changes and four ties. The Stars held a 80-75 lead at the end of the frame.

The Stars held the upper hand on the Bighorns to open the final frame before the Bighorns went on an 11-4 run to hold a one-point advantage over the Stars with 7:31 left in play. The teams fought to control the lead, exchanging the lead five times and tying twice in five minutes. The Stars had a 106-100 lead with 46.3 left in play. Hearn sunk two triples in the final 2.4 seconds to end the game edging the Stars 107-106. Hearn scored 15 of his 30 points in the final frame behind a 5-7 shooting effort.

The Bighorns will return to the Reno Events Center on Wednesday, Feb. 1 to host the Iowa Energy at 7 p.m.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns:

Reno Bighorns vs. Rio Grande Valley Vipers, January 27, 2017

Reno Bighorn Guard LAMAR PATTERSON (13) shoots against Rio Grande Valley Viper Center CHINANU ONUAKU (23) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Reno Bighorn Guard ISAIAH COUSINS (10) drives during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Rio Grande Valley Viper Center CHINANU ONUAKU (23) pulls down a rebound during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Rio Grande Valley Viper Guard DARIUS MORRIS (9) attempts a shot against Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Rio Grande Valley Viper Guard GARY PAYTON II (0) drives to the hoop during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Rio Grande Valley Viper Forward LE’BRYAN NASH (2) shoots a layup against Reno Bighorn Center GEORGIOS PAPAGIANNIS (50) during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Rio Grande Valley Viper Guard JARVIS THREATT (4) starts a drive during the NBA D-League Basketball game between the Reno Bighorns and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 Kyle Jones: kjones@renobighorns.com

BIGHORNS DROP WIRE-TO-WIRE THRILLER

RENO, Nev. —- The Reno Bighorns (11-17) fell to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (17-12) 119-114 Friday night at the Reno Events Center.

Sacramento Kings Affiliate Player Lamar Patterson led the Bighorns with 39 points and seven rebounds while affiliate player Isiah Cousins notched 22 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Kings assignment player Georgios Papagiannis recorded his fourth double-double of the season 17 points and 12 rebounds.

Darius Morrris paced the Vipers with 27 points, five rebounds and five assists while Chinanu Onuaku had 19 points and 11 rebounds.

The opening quarter was a fast-paced, tightly contested play in which neither team led by more than six points. Patterson led all scorers in the first frame with 13 points, helping the Bighorns to a one-point advantage to start the second frame.

The head-to-head battle carried through to a high-scoring frame with Reno and Rio Grande Valley both scoring over 29 points. The Bighorns led by as many as eight points, despite the frame seeing eight lead changes and four ties. The Bighorns led the Vipers 61-57 at the half.

The Bighorns held a double-digit lead over at the 8:00 mark until the Vipers went on a late rally to leave the Bighorns trailing by one point to end the third period.

The Bighorns held the upper hand on the Vipers to open the final frame after six points from Patterson in the first minute and a half of play. The Vipers retook control of the lead after two lay-ups from Jarvis Threatt and a lay-up from Walker. Despite Patterson scoring 13 points in the final frame, the Vipers would not relinquish the lead.

The Bighorns will return to the Reno Events Center on Sunday, Jan. 29 to host the Salt Lake City Stars at 5 p.m. The Kings entertainment team will join the Bighorns for affiliate games in Reno during the January 29 contest. Kings Legends, Sacramento Kings Dancers, Mascot Slamson and more will be on hand to give fans in Reno an opportunity to connect directly with the Sacramento organization.

–bighorns—

About the Reno Bighorns: