Flash back, preparing for home opener

After a trip to Southern California that saw the Flash split their first two games, the team returns to Utah for their home opener against the Dakota Wizards.

The game will be played tonight at 7 p.m. at the McKay Events Center on the campus of Utah Valley State College in Orem.

The Flash's first two games were marked by the play of guard Gabe Pruitt, who was assigned to the team by the Boston Celtics just in time for Pruitt to catch the team's flight to Anaheim.

Pruitt scored 31 points, including the game-winner with 3.9 seconds left, and had eight assists in the Flash's 110-109 win over the Arsenel on Saturday.

"He was really good," Flash Coach Brad Jones said. "He's a part of Flash history with that game-winner." The Celtics recalled Pruitt back to Boston after just one more game, a 109-92 loss to the Los Angeles D-Fenders on Sunday.

Flash General Manager David Fredman said Pruitt was recalled because Celtics guard Tony Allen suffered a sprained ankle.

"The average fan doesn't understand that not only do NBA teams need to play, they need to practice, which is why they recalled him," Fredman said.

Fredman said he expects Pruitt to be reassigned to the Flash later.

"He's a young player, and he needs to play," Fredman said. "I'm not sure how much time he'll be able to get up there."

The remaining NBA players on the Flash's roster are also playing well.

Utah Jazz center Kyrylo Fesenko had 21 points and nine rebounds in the Flash's loss to the D-Fenders, while Celtics forward Brandon Wallace recorded the first double-double in Flash history with 15 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

"I was really impressed with Fesenko and Wallace because when things were tough, they didn't pack it in," Jones said. "It might be easier for an NBA guy to pack it in, but both guys played hard throughout. That's what being a pro is about."

Dakota won the D-League Championship last year, but has struggled so far this season, losing its first two games.

The Wizards are led by forward Kevin Lyde, who leads the D-League in both rebounds and blocks per game. Lyde is averaging 18.5 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks with a .667 shooting percentage.

Forward Carlos Powell and guard Maurice Baker are averaging 23.5 and 22.5 points, respectively, for Dakota.

A Flash first

What: Franchise home opener for Utah Flash, NBDL affiliate of the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics

When: Today, 7 p.m.

Where: McKay Events Center at Utah Valley State, Orem

Opponent: Dakota Wizards (Memphis, Washington)