The final game of the regular season saw a last gasp victory for the Crusaders.

Birmingham's young team were on the brink of their 8th win of the season until the experience of the Crusaders squad saw them edge into the lead inside the final minute.

The depth of young talent in the Birmingham franchise was there for all to see as the Bullets drafted in members of their under-20 squad to provide power and energy. They really led the way throughout the game scoring easily and forcing Crusaders to rush as their shot clock counted down.

But when you have the team spirit of this BUPA Crusaders squad, a 13 point deficit with 2:29 left on the clock is no problem whatsoever. Inside the last 2 minutes, Coventry outscored their visitors 17-2 to wrest a victory from the jaws of defeat.

A massive three-pointer from Ben Livingston, power drives from Derrick Pope, a lay up under pressure followed by a point after by Colin Rhooms and a critical free throw from Mark Bradbury combined to end the season on a winning note.

Once again, Iceman Derrick Pope led all scorers with an awesome 39 points. At times, his game was so far ahead of every one else, even his team mates were standing and watching. But most of the time, he was so in tune with Matt Donaldson, in particular, the game looked like a jam in the park.

During a tetchy second half the game threatened to degenerate into a bad-tempered physical battle as the officials seemed determined to break up the flow of the play.

It looked like the Bullets were going to ease ahead as Coventry began to wilt under intense pressure, until coach Dip Donaldson brought himself into the game to steady the ship with his strong physical presence. His five minutes allowed Coventry to regain their composure and set up the pulsating final minutes that sent the crowd home happy and hoarse.

The way this Coventry team can battle, you would be unwise to bet against seeing another home game this season as we enter the play offs, but we may have said farewell to stalwart Matt Donaldson who is retiring to "have some fun" back home in California. Rick Solvason was also at the game watching the Crusaders. They will both be sadly missed.

But a future of professional basketball beckons for the Crusaders as they make ready to enter the SkyDome.
 

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