League News

Pattaya Red Dragons Crowned TEBA Champions in Thrilling Finale Against Bangkok Coyotes

January 27, 2025

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Bangkok, Thailand – January 26, 2025 – In a championship battle for the ages, the Pattaya Red Dragons emerged victorious in the TEBA League Finals, edging out the Bangkok Coyotes in a nail-biting 86-83 victory at FBA Stadium. With the championship on the line, both teams left everything on the court, delivering a game packed with high-intensity action, clutch moments, and standout performances.

Lincoln Smith’s MVP Performance Seals the Championship

It was a career-defining night for Lincoln Smith, who dominated from start to finish, dropping an explosive 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists. The Red Dragons’ star forward was unstoppable in the paint, using his strength and footwork to carve through the Coyotes’ defense.

Smith’s biggest moment came in the final minute, when he powered through a double-team and sank a crucial layup to put Pattaya ahead for good. His calmness under pressure, combined with his ability to take over the game when it mattered most, cemented his status as the Finals MVP.

Coyotes Fight to the End, Led by Jaron Kirkley

Despite the heartbreaking loss, Jaron Kirkley kept the Coyotes in the fight until the final buzzer. He finished with an impressive 28 points and 6 rebounds, showcasing his ability to score from all levels of the floor.

The Coyotes trailed for most of the game, but Kirkley sparked a fourth-quarter rally, knocking down two deep three-pointers to bring his team within one possession. With 10 seconds left on the clock, Bangkok had one last chance to tie the game, but their final shot rimmed out, sealing their fate.

Anthony Vanhook’s Defensive Clinic & Key Contributions

While Smith was the offensive engine, Anthony Vanhook was the Red Dragons’ defensive backbone. He stuffed the stat sheet with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 blocks, and 4 steals, playing lockdown defense against the Coyotes’ top scorers.

His presence in the paint forced Bangkok into tough shots, and his two chase-down blocks in the fourth quarter kept the Red Dragons in control. Vanhook’s ability to protect the rim and crash the boards made a huge difference, ensuring Pattaya’s defensive stability when the Coyotes tried to mount a comeback.

Thanakorn Panichattra & Robert Kowalczyk Step Up

In a tight championship battle, every contribution matters

Thanakorn Panichattra provided a crucial 11 points, 2 assists, and 4 rebounds, knocking down key buckets to relieve pressure off the starters.
Robert Kowalczyk was a rebounding machine, pulling down 11 boards while adding 6 points and 2 assists, giving Pattaya second-chance opportunities.

Championship Legacy & What’s Next for TEBA

This hard-fought victory gives Pattaya Red Dragons their first TEBA League Championship, etching their name in league history. The team celebrated at center court, hoisting the trophy as confetti rained down, while Smith and Vanhook embraced, knowing their dominance had sealed the title.

As the TEBA League continues to grow, this championship game serves as a defining moment, showcasing the talent, intensity, and competitive spirit that the league represents.

With teams already looking ahead to next season, one thing is certain:
The Pattaya Red Dragons are the team to beat, and the road to the championship now runs through them.