ALBUQUERQUE, NM, Jan. 20, 2010 – The Albuquerque Thunderbirds knocked off the Bakersfield Jam on Wednesday night, 117-102. The T-Birds never trailed in the game, and led by as many as 25.

Albuquerque got out to a 36-24 lead at the end of the first quarter, highlighted by two spectacular reel dunks from Tony Danridge. The T-Birds scored a season high 71 points in the first half, and led by 16 at the break.

The T-Birds led 93-81 through three, and ultimately notched the 15 point win. Albuquerque connected on 14 of 25 threes, highlighted by four apiece by Chad Toppert and Antoine Agudio.

Carlos Powell led the way for Albuquerque with 21 points. Toppert and Agudio each added 17 for the T-Birds. The team had seven players score in double figures for the first time all year, as Tony Danridge (12), Kevin Pittsnogle (12) Shane Edwards (10) and Kurt Looby (10) each accomplished the feat. Marcus Hubbard scored nine in his T-Birds debut.

Blake Ahearn led all scorers with 26 points for Bakersfield. Jeremy Wise added 17 for the visitors.

The T-Birds will host the Bakersfield Jam again on Friday night. The game begins at 7 pm and you can bring your group for as low as $4 per person. Call 505.265.3865 or visit www.abqtbirds.com for more information.