Union Strike Quickly

Saint John Union used an offense that emphasized swift ball movement to win their new Eastern Canadian Basketball League debut Friday night. The Union defeated the visiting Bathurst Bears 98-85 in the season-opener for both teams before 1,821 spectators at TD Station.

Fredericton native, Kyle Arsenault, led the Union with 21 points. Chevon Brown poured in 20 points and Mikey Rodriquez had 17 points and 13 assists.

Giovanni Jackson countered with 23 points for the Bears, who trailed 56-46 at halftime. Tim Mitchell netted 22 points and Stanley Muyambo added 20.

The Union and Bears meet again on Sunday (April 2) in Bathurst’s home-opener.  Game time is 4 p.m. at the K.C. Irving Regional Centre, but officials are encouraging spectators to arrive at 2:30 p.m. because a full slate of activities are planned. The Bears visit the Moncton Motion on Thursday (April 6) at 7 p.m. at the Avenir Centre.