The Tri City Tide are back on their home court this Friday night, and they’re facing one of their toughest tests of the season  a rematch with the  New York Phoenix.

This is more than just another game. With the regular season winding down, and only a few home games left, the Tide are looking to finish strong, and what better way to make a statement than to hand New York a rare loss?

The Challenge Ahead

The Phoenix enter the match up as one of the highest-scoring teams in The Basketball League, averaging a staggering 123.7 points per game. Their ball movement, depth, and defensive pressure have overwhelmed opponents all season, including the Tide, who fell 129–87 in their last meeting.

New York leads in almost every major team stat category:

• 26.2 assists per game (Tide: 17.8)

• 47.5 rebounds per game (Tide: 39.6)

• 10.8 steals per game (Tide: 8.8)

• And they shoot efficiently from all areas of the court.

For the Tide to pull off the upset, they’ll need to lock in from the opening tip.

What Tri City Needs to Do to Win

1. Hold the Paint
This is a frontcourt game. The combination of Christian Ndiaye and Doug Thomas will be crucial to protecting the rim and keeping New York off the offensive glass. The Phoenix average 14.4 offensive rebounds per game second-chance points must be limited.

2. Stay Out of Foul Trouble
New York knows how to get to the line. With Tri City averaging over 21 team fouls per game, staying disciplined on defense, especially in the post will be key to keeping top players on the court when it matters most.

3. Big Games from Big Names
Kyler Haynes (17.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG) and De’Monte Nelson (16.4 PPG, 3.1 APG) will need to be aggressive and efficient. Their leadership and shot-making ability can keep the Tide in it, especially if they set the tone early.

4. Take Care of the Ball
Turnovers have haunted the Tide in high-pressure matchups. Against a team that thrives in transition, ball security is non-negotiable. Controlling the pace and limiting mistakes will help disrupt New York’s rhythm.

5. Bench Energy & Team Depth
Depth matters. Whether it’s Tre Edwards, James French, or another key role player, the Tide’s bench needs to provide meaningful minutes. Energy, defense, hustle,  the small things will make a big difference in a game like this.

Final Word

Last time these two teams met, it wasn’t close. But that was then. This is a new night, a new opportunity, and one of the final chances for Tri City to make some noise this season.

With the home crowd behind them, the Tide are more than capable of rising to the challenge,  and if they do, it could be one of the biggest wins of the season.

Let’s fill Crandall, get loud, and show the Phoenix what home court in Moncton feels like.