Achiuwa had a big night against Metu as Raptors beat the Kings
The Toronto Raptors recorded a 113-95 victory away against the Sacramento Kings in an NBA fixture played in the early hours of Thursday, January 26, 2023.
The Sacramento Kings have been the surprise team in the NBA this season led by big man Domontas Sabonis.
The Raptors led by veteran point guard and 2019 champion Frederick VanVleet started off hot to take a narrow one-point lead after the first quarter.
The Raptors created separation in the second quarter to take an eight-point advantage to the halftime break.
In the third quarter, the Raptors extended their lead to double digits taking a 17-point lead to the fourth quarter.
The game was already decided as the Raptors did enough to record an 18-point blowout victory.
Precious Achiuwa shines for Raptors
Nigerian basketball star Precious Achiuwa played an important role for the Raptors to get the victory against the Kings.
Following the return of Ogugua "O.G." Anunoby to the starting lineup, Raptors Head Coach Nick Nurse returned Achiuwa to the bench unit.
He would respond in style to put up 19 points and five rebounds in just 29 minutes of action.
Achiuwa showed off versatility by defending the perimeter and switching when called upon.
He made nine of his 12 shots, although just one of three from three-point range he was effective.
Chimezie Metu struggles for Kings
Nigerian basketball star Chimezie Metu struggled to make an impact for the Kings against a lengthy Raptors side.
Kings Head Coach Mike Brown brought Metu off the bench as he featured for 16 minutes contributing two points, five rebounds, one assist, and one steal.
It was a tough shooting night for Metu as he made just one of his five shots and was guarded by Achiuwa on several occasions.
Despite the victory, the Raptors in the Eastern Conference are still way behind in the race to make the postseason.
The Kings on the other hand are comfortable sitting in third place in a loaded western conference.
Achiuwa and the Raptors return to action when they travel to face reigning champions the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, January 28, 2023.
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