BVI Basketball Association Summer League

Stephano Paul Powers VG Elite Past Relentless in Playoff Thriller

VG Elite advanced in the playoffs with a hard-fought 76-70 victory over Relentless on Friday night at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, using a dominant second and third quarter to withstand a late rally.

After trailing 20-17 at the end of the first quarter, VG Elite responded with a 23-10 second-quarter surge to seize control of the contest. They extended their advantage with a 20-15 third quarter before Relentless mounted a furious comeback in the final period, outscoring VG Elite 25-16. However, the deficit proved too much to overcome as VG Elite held firm to secure the six-point victory.

Stephano Paul delivered a spectacular all-around performance to lead VG Elite, pouring in a game-high 18 points while adding nine rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Stephon Caul provided a huge lift with 12 points, six rebounds, three steals and three blocks, while Jolyon Wilson and Kimron Telemaque each scored 11 points. Lekoy Lennard contributed 10 points, nine rebounds and three assists as VG Elite placed five players in double figures.

VG Elite's defense was the difference-maker, finishing with 13 steals and an impressive 10 blocked shots while forcing Relentless into difficult shots throughout the game.

Relentless was led by Shakeem Blackmore, who scored 17 points, while Devante Brewley and Trent Herbert each added 12. Asim Beazer knocked down three three-pointers on his way to nine points, and Juan Richard anchored the interior with 15 rebounds, five blocked shots and four assists.

Despite outrebounding VG Elite 47-44 and matching them with 20 assists, Relentless was unable to overcome its second-quarter struggles. The 13-point halftime deficit left them chasing the game, and although they cut into the lead with a strong fourth-quarter push, VG Elite made the necessary plays down the stretch to close out the win.

With the victory, VG Elite continued their impressive playoff run, combining balanced scoring, relentless defensive pressure and timely execution to earn their place in the next round.