Returning Dozier gets needed test in Alaska win over Thornton, NLEX
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Rob Dozier just wanted to feel what it’s like to be back on my he floor, see how he would do after he had missed Alaska’s first 10 games in the 2016 Commissioner’s Cup.
He got more than what he asked for as his return had him matched up against one of the best imports this conference in Al Thornton, who was coming off a scintillating 69-point performance.
“I had the hardest challenge, having to guard Al, which was unfortunate, but I had fun in my first game,” Dozier said. “I was just trying to get my feet wet.”
Statistically, Dozier was outplayed by Thornton. But his head coach Alex Compton, Dozier’s impact was so much more than what his numbers show.
Dozier had 14 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks in 29 minutes.
“You saw what Rob does for us defensively – his length, it feels that he has a 10-foot wingspan out there,” Compton told reporters after the Aces’ win over the NLEX Road Warriors on Friday.
“I thought it was a good break-in game for Rob. I thought he did a good job considering he’s been out for months now,” Compton added.
Dozier’s return gave Alaska an added shot of confidence having led the franchise to the championship in the same conference three seasons ago, but the former Memphis Tiger credited his teammates’ efforts that led to the crucial win.
“The guys played well. They kind of carried the offense and we played well defensively. I’m just looking forward to get back here,” he said.
Before making his conference-debut, Dozier said he had already started practicing for the past couple of weeks.
“I’m doing the best I can. My body felt great out there. I didn’t have any pain in my foot, so I’m just looking forward to next game,” said Dozier, who is from the same city in Atlanta as Thornton.
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