Jersey City- After last week’s lackluster performance from Slaughterhouse, they looked to turn things around in the first round of the playoffs against JC Tropics. JC Tropics played this game with a chip on their shoulder as well, giving their opponent all they could handle. Slaughterhouse hit their first two 3-point attempts, which is usually a good sign, but then their play turned sloppy as they began to struggle. JC Tropics' game plan was to attack the rim and they did it with success. JC Tropics were ahead by as many as 11 points, thanks in large part to the efforts of Bruce Sobress, who caught fire and finished with 12 first half points. Slaughterhouse needed more players to step it up if they hoped to overcome JC Tropics. Brandon Steward answered the bell to end the first half, carrying Slaughterhouse back into the game.  He led all players with 15 points and brought his team back to within two points at the break, down only 29-27.

            The second half was definitely a battle with both teams stepping up their competitiveness and physicality. Slaughterhouse took their first lead of the game 7 minutes into the half and would lead by as many as 7 points. JC Tropics were getting the same great looks they found earlier on but but just were not able to knock them down as consistently. Even with the offense slowing down, they remained in the game and it was neck and neck right up until the end. It was a tie game with just 2 minutes remaining, and both teams were pushing the pace as they sensed their shot at the title game coming to within their grasp. Every player was hustling and wanted this win. With less than 30 seconds on the clock and down by 1 point, Brandon Steward steals the ball from JC Tropics.  After an assist to Dakota Tipton, Steward gets the ball back and nails a pressure 3 pointer for the win at the buzzer, crushing JC Tropics. Both teams showed great grit and determination, but it will be Slaughterhouse who heads to the championship game on the back of this 60-58 victory. JC Tropic’s Bruce Sobress finished with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists with teammate Brandon Renkart chipping in 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist. Slaughterhouse’s Brandon Steward totaled 26 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals. Teammate Solomon Funchess earned himself a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds, also tacking on 2 assists.