By Stephen D. Riley
AFRO Staff Writer
Wizards star point guard Gilbert Arenas led the team with 32 points in 29 minutes. (Courtesy Photo/thebasketballblogger.com)
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(November 1, 2009) - The Washington Wizards stacked up on extra talent in the offseason and it’s already paying dividends this season. Even without starters Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler, the Wizards showed their depth against the New Jersey Nets, winning their home opener at the Verizon Center 123-104 on Oct. 31.
Wizards star point guard Gilbert Arenas led the team with 32 points in 29 minutes. Arenas flashed his trademark knack for hitting buzzer-beaters, sinking a deep three to end the first quarter. Reserve swing man Andray Blatche backed Arenas’ effort with a 30-point, 6-rebound effort in only 28 minutes.
The Wizards shot 61 percent from the field and 64 percent from three-point range, and racked up 28 assists.
Chris Douglas-Roberts led New Jersey with 25 points as the Nets shot under 40 percent from the field as a team.
Standout Performers:
Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas led all scorers with 32 points. The star guard also added seven assists and sank 11 of 12 free throws. Washington reserve guard Randy Foye started at shooting guard and added 17 points and eight assists. Andray Blatche posted 30 points and six rebounds.
Nets sophomore swing man added 25 points and four rebounds in a losing effort. Starting point guard Rafer Alston added 20 points and eight assists.
Key Stretch of the Game:
Leading 66-55 at the top of the third quarter, Washington went on a 14-6 run to push their lead to 80-61 with just over six minutes remaining.
Next Up:
The Wizards will travel to Cleveland to take on the rival Cavaliers on Nov. 3. The Nets will visit the Charlotte Bobcats on Nov.2.