Rio Grande Valley Vipers: 97

Austin Spurs: 116

The Vipers were again cold from downtown in their first rivalry matchup of the season. Shooting 21 percent from three as a team, RGV could not keep pace with the balanced attack of the host Spurs. Joshua Smith did post a double double, 13 points and 12 rebounds, starting after Chinanu Onuaku was recalled to the Rockets.

RGV Vipers: 139

Iowa Energy: 115

In an ESPN-televised showcase, the offense came back to life for the Vipers. Chris Johnson led the way, going 11/14 from the floor, including 3/3 from downtown, to finish with a team high 27 points. The well known RGV tempo was on full display, with JP Tokoto and Co. flying up and down the court all night.

Carson’s Commentary Trifecta:

• The afore-mentioned high tempo attack for Rio Grande Valley is so tough to defend. Whether it was on a rebound, or off a made basket, the Vipers were speeding down the court. When they play at that speed, and have at least a decent night shooting, they are a top team in the league.
• Le’Bryan Nash needs to get into some catch-and-shoot situations early to get a rhythm going. He is a dynamic offensively player, but he sometimes presses to create too much by himself. If he already has a few buckets, he’ll be more comfortable in the flow of the game.
• The Vipers certainly endeared themselves to an audience that maybe hadn’t seen them yet. With the Iowa game nationally televised on ESPN, they played one of their best games this season, and it was fun to watch. I would certainly be intrigued to follow a team that put up 139 points the first time seeing them.

Rental Rockets Report:

Chinanu Onuaku: 14 points and 12 rebounds against Iowa. He did turn the ball over eight times, and didn’t register a single block.

Kyle Wiltjer: DNP-Rockets.

What’s Next?

TONIGHT: vs. Iowa Energy

The Memphis Grizzlies affiliate will have a chance to avenge their loss earlier this week. Troy Williams scored 32 points in the last game, on assignment from Memphis.

Tomorrow: at OKC Blue

RGV dropped a seven point loss last time they faced OKC Blue earlier this month. Dakari Johnson has shown great improvement so far in 2016-17 for the Thunder affiliate.