The Titans are returning to America with an unblemished 5-0 record thanks to an 82-77 victory over Avila on Friday in their final exhibition game in Spain.
The Titans were put to the test against Avila and trailed for the entire first half of play. They were down by as many as 11 in the second quarter before cutting the host's advantage to 44-43 at halftime. Having conquered their mental fatigue and remembering their "family" desire, they rallied around each other to post their fifth straight victory.
“We continued with a new starting five. The encouraging thing about this game was at the end of this long trip and with our guys tired, we were put to the test and overcame fatigue,” Titans coach Ray McCallum said. “We had a tremendous lift defensively in the second quarter. We had tremendous energy. Going into the half, we were down one and came out in the third quarter and established the tempo for the rest of the game.
“We went on a 7-0 run and didn't look back. Xavier Keeling's three-point shot was huge and we finished out the ball game. During the last four minutes of the game, our defensive stands and offensive execution were crucial. We were in a lot of games just like this one last year and we learned a lot about ourselves and each other with this win. We will be sure to carry all of this into our season."
“This was an exciting game, against a great opponent and in a great atmosphere,” added assistant coach Derek Thomas. “We were playing from behind and we persevered. This is something we will take with us into the season and it leaves a great taste in our mouths. I thought it was a total team effort. Guys helped us on both the offensive and defensive end and it was a collection of great play from all of our guys."
With many great memories in tow along with their five straight victories, the Titans will wing their way back home on Saturday.
-Detroit Titans-
