Five things we learned from the Flyers’ season opener

The Flyers would go in at the half down by six, despite shooting over 57% from two-point range. It was from outside that the performance dropped, shooting under 17% (2/12) for six points, whilst the Scorchers were hot from the same distance, shooting almost 64% (7/11) for 21 points.

In the third quarter the Flyers’ scoring was almost all down to debutant, Gentry Thomas. The guard was responsible 12 of Bristol’s 17 points in the period, almost single-handedly ensuring the game stayed alive. Thomas was able to shoot 5/9 from the field, whilst the rest of the team combined just 1/8.

Hustle plays on the offensive boards were able to keep Flyers in the game. In the first half, the Flyers grabbed six offensive rebounds, whereas in the third quarter alone they pulled in five. This continued into the fourth quarter as the home team pulled in another nine offensive rebounds - the same amount that Surrey had in the full 45 minutes of play.

In a huge turnaround, the Flyers were able to outscore Surrey 20-5 in the final five minutes of play, including a 13-0 run to ensure overtime. The formula to the unlikely comeback? Not letting the visiting defence get set and catching them off-guard.

Of the Flyers’ 32 points in the quarter, 27 of them came from the defence not being set. Eight from Surrey’s turnovers, 12 from second chance points and seven on the fast break.

With the momentum in the Flyers’ favour, their shooting percentages shot up in overtime, shooting 5/8 from the field whilst Surrey crumbled under the pressure, shooting 4/14.

But another huge factor to keep that momentum rolling was the Flyers free-throw shooting. In regulation the home-side shot just 39% (9/23) from the line, including an uncharacteristic 9% (1/11) from Marcus Delpeche. But in overtime, the Flyers made 78% (7/9) of their free throws, ensuring they would hold the momentum, and the win.

A passionate fan of basketball since 2004, Aaron briefly played at SGS (then Filton College) under Head Coach Andreas Kapoulas.

Fast forward a number of years, Aaron now contributes to recording the statistics for the Flyers home games as a club Statistician, you’ll often find him sat at the table courtside taking stats into his laptop at every home game.

Do you agree with Aaron? Follow him on Twitter @eamer and let him know what you think!