Iowa Wolves dominant second half leads to victory over Memphis Hustle
DES MOINES, Iowa — Behind a massive 47-point third-quarter explosion, the Iowa Wolves (8-6) pulled away for a 127-109 victory over the Memphis Hustle (2-11) on Saturday night at Casey’s Center in Des Moines, Iowa.
The Wolves utilized a balanced scoring attack and a dominant second half to secure the win, leading by as many as 27 points in the final frame. Jules Bernard led the way for Iowa with 28 points and 10 assists, while Enrique Freeman anchored the interior with 22 points and 10 rebounds.
Third Quarter Surge
The game was a tightly contested affair in the first half, with the Wolves holding a slim 54-53 lead at the break. However, the momentum shifted entirely in the third quarter. Iowa outscored Memphis 47-28 in the period, shooting a blistering 75% from the field and 77.8% from beyond the arc.
Freeman was nearly perfect in the quarter, scoring 14 points on 5-of-5 shooting. The Wolves’ ball movement was on full display as they recorded 12 assists on 15 made field goals during the run.
Hustle’s Hinton and Burton Stand Out
Despite the loss, the Hustle saw strong individual performances from Nate Hinton and Tyler Burton. Hinton finished with a team-high 28 points and seven rebounds, while Burton contributed 21 points, including four makes from deep.
Memphis found success in the paint, outscoring Iowa 66-58 in that area, but they could not overcome Iowa’s outside shooting. The Wolves finished the night shooting 50% from three-point range (16-of-32) compared to 32.3% (10-of-31) for the Hustle.
Key Statistics
- Rebounding: Iowa controlled the glass, out-rebounding Memphis 46-33.
- Bench Production: Iowa’s Nate Santos provided a major spark off the bench with 19 points and 14 rebounds.
- Turnovers: The Wolves overcame 21 turnovers, which Memphis converted into 29 points.
The Hustle are scheduled to play at home Monday, Jan. 26, against the Stockton Kings, with game time at 7 p.m.
