Recap

Starlites JSD staged a sensational comeback to hand Hibernians their first loss of the season in a thrilling contest that went to overtime. Despite trailing by as many as 20 points in the third quarter, Starlites capitalised on Hibernians’ 36 turnovers to erase the deficit and snatch a dramatic victory, keeping the battle for the top spot alive.

The game began with Starlites asserting themselves, with Max Curran and Matthew Scerri contributing early baskets. However, Hibernians quickly found their footing as Ivan Demcesen and Tedrick Wolfe dominated the paint, giving their side a narrow lead after the first quarter. The momentum shifted decisively in the second, with Hibernians’ Derek Brown and Matthew Gouder leading a 12-point surge. A late jumper from Kai Fabri cut the deficit slightly, but Starlites entered halftime trailing 42-27.

Christian Narciso’s Hibernians clan extended their advantage in the third quarter, with Wolfe and Brown combining for quick fast-break scores. However, Starlites’ defensive pressure began to pay dividends as turnovers mounted for Hibernians. Trevon Reddish-Rhone sparked the comeback with his consistent scoring in transition, while Scerri’s efficiency from the line and a crucial three-pointer narrowed the gap to single digits by the end of the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Starlites rode their momentum, with Ian Felice Pace and Reddish-Rhone igniting the offence. A sequence of back-to-back layups by the Starlites US import guard brought Paul Ferrante’s team within two points before Scerri nailed a pivotal three-pointer to give his team their first lead since the opening minutes. Hibernians responded through Gouder, but Curran’s tip-in and free throw sealed the lead for Starlites. With the scores tied at 71, Hibernians missed a chance to win it in the final seconds, forcing overtime.

The extra rubber belonged to Starlites. Reddish-Rhone continued to dominate, scoring off turnovers and maintaining composure at the free-throw line. Wolfe’s efforts for Hibernians kept the game close, but his team’s inability to protect the ball proved costly. Reddish’s final free throws iced the game, securing the victory for Starlites.