Express hope home win drives fans to games

By Jessica Brisebois

The Windsor Express have snapped a four-game losing streak against 2012 National Basketball League champions the London Lightning.

The Express won 99-93 Jan. 27 at the WFCU Centre.

Express forward Chris Commons shot seven for seven from the free throw line, scoring 28 points for his team.

“When it’s neck to neck, you want as many opportunities to have possession of the ball,” said Commons. “But, at the same time you don’t want to rush any shots.”

He said he has been struggling with rebounds the past few games but was pleased with the win. This was Windsor’s first win at home since December. Commons said the motivation to play well comes from the fans.

“When I play in London their crowd is packed and it makes us play better seeing fans in the stands,” said Commons. The Express played the Lightning in London Dec. 30 in front of 4,000 fans.  He said the environment to play is enriched when fans attend the game to support their home team. The London Lightning won their last four games at home.

“At the end of the day we’re all basketball players,” said Commons. “We come out here and beat London, a very good team, and they had a tough game coming from a three night stretch.”

Windsor Express point guard Stefan Bonneau knocked down two free throws in the last quarter assisting the team in their victory.

“We need to play like this more often,” said Bonneau.

He said they played more defense and together as a team.

“Whichever team plays the best basketball on that day, that’s the team that’s going to win,” said Commons.

Both London Lightning and Windsor Express are in playoff contention.

Windsor Express will be looking for their fans in the stands at WFCU Feb. 13 when they play host the Montreal Jazz.