Powell leads Explosion to win over Jazz

Published 9:00 pm Friday, April 20, 2007

TACOMA – Against a tougher than expected opponent, the Everett Explosion battled – and eventually won.

Behind 39 points from forward Rashaad Powell and a solid contribution from newcomer Marco Morgan, the Explosion beat the Tacoma Jazz 128-119 at the Tacoma Dome on Friday night.

“Rashaad pretty much carried us offensively in the second half,” said Explosion head coach Randy Redwine. “(Tacoma) was a better team than their record indicated.”

Swingman and WSU alum Justin Murray added 20 points and guard Antwon Jones chipped in 19 for the Explosion.

“Our swing players really made the difference tonight by getting out and running (on the Jazz),” Redwine said. “Tacoma was real physical inside.”

Also key in the win was newly signed 6-foot-8 power forward Marco Morgan, who finished with 12 points in his debut.

“Marco’s a big body that banged well on both ends of the floor tonight. He provided a nice lift,” Redwine said.

Last night’s victory was the Explosion’s second straight victory, a streak they hope will continue against the Salem Stampede (4-0) at 7p.m. Tuesday at the Everett Events Center.

“Salem is going to be tough, so tonight was a good win, but we’ve got to get ready for another battle,” Redwine said.

Mike Claxton led the Jazz with 22 points.

Explosion forward Donald Watts missed the game in order to attend a family funeral in Alabama.

Tacoma Dome

Everett37194428-128

Tacoma31193930-119

Everett-Jones 19, White 9, Powell 39, Schuh 3, VandenBosch 2, Walker 6, James 14, M. Jones 2, Nelson 2, Murray 20, Morgan 12. Tacoma-Ohanson 6, Harris 16, White 14, Muilenber 2, Moore 6, Rollins 21, Claxton 22, Burras 9, Nowell 2, Bailey 11, Bernard 10. Records-Everett 4-1 overall. Tacoma 0-3.