It’s off in the distance, beckoning for your attention.  Trying so hard to get closer, you realize the destination is an illusion.  The first three quarters for the Sioux Falls Skyforce were hard-fought, with only a five point deficit heading into the final stages.  The soothing mirage snapped into cold reality as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (9-8) caught fire from long distance and cruised to a 107-92 victory on Friday night.

Both teams were reeling coming out of the NBA Development League Showcase, but the visitors broke the game open with a 21-4 run including a stretch of 13 straight to start the money stretch.  Five three pointers in the 4th quarter for the Vipers was the highlight of an overall 11-21 performance from deep.  The Skyforce (10-9) conversely were a substandard 4 of 19 outside the arc.  Gains were made in the offensive rebounding department for Sioux Falls, but turnover troubles were still present as there were 19 giveaways.

The Vipers got an almost flawless night from German import Tim Olbrecht.  Starting off 9-9 from the floor and 8-8 from the free throw line should get you noticed.  Olbrecht finished with 29 points, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks for the former Olympian who played for Germany in the Bejing Games.  Adding to the flavor was the recent transactions that sent Andrew Goudelock from Sioux Falls to the Vipers.  Wearing the road red of RGV lit the former Laker’s competitive edge for 23 points.  Goudelock would take special delight in staring down the Skyforce bench after made baskets for extra effect.

Demetris Nichols was the scoring leader this time for the Skyforce tallying 21, Mark Tyndale next at 16 points and Dexter Pittman with a dozen.  The big man on assignment from Miami presumably felt that he didn’t give enough during the game as he got into early foul trouble and played only 23 minutes.  An hour after the game was completed he was back on the court doing sprints.  Dexter is making the most of his time in the D-League.  Another chance at redemption arrives Saturday night as the Skyforce and Vipers finish their two-game set.

More From KSOO-AM / ESPN Sioux Falls