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Back at Barclays: Nets Attempt Daring Comeback vs Cavs

BQE Admin on October 31, 2025

By Noah Zimmerman

noah@queensledger.com

The Brooklyn Nets staged a wild and improbable comeback in their home opener against the Cavaliers last Friday night at the Barclays Center. After trailing Cleveland by as much as 25 points in the second half, Brooklyn powered their way within a single point before their late run ultimately came up short.

It’s been a lackluster start to the season for a team most expect to be among the league’s bottomdwellers. Despite the low bar the Nets have put up impressive fights against solid teams, showing their capability to hang with playoff teams like Cleveland and San Antonio.

It’s clear that the focus and priority this season is on development and asset management, especially with the NBA record recently set with five first round selections in the 2025 draft. Of those five rookies, the two with significant minutes so far have been 8th overall pick Egor Dëmin and #26 overall Ben Saraf.

In the season opener Dëmin scored his first 14 points in NBA action. The Moscow-born BYU product showed potential as a scorer and playmaker, tied for the team lead with 5 assists in the losing effort in Charlotte. He was one of six Nets in double figures against the Hornets.

During Friday’s game at the Barclays Center it was a slow start for Brooklyn. A seasoned playoff team in Cleveland outscored the hosts in the first three quarters, led by star guard Donovan Mitchell, Sam Merrill, and former Net Jarrett Allen. The Cavs defense also gave Brooklyn fits, seemingly getting their hands on the ball in each defensive possession.

At its worst, the Nets saw their deficit grow to 25, but even in the face of adversity they battled back in the final frame.

Leading the charge for Brooklyn were new acquisition Michael Porter Jr., third year scoring sensation Cam Thomas, and Ziaire Williams, each finishing with at least 25 points.

To cap the run, Dëmin knocked down a clutch three, making it a 1-point game and sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The rookie showed great composure and his shooting skill will be paramount in his development.

“[Egor’s] a great player and an even better human. I’m really glad we added him to the team,” commented Williams postgame. “I’m excited to see his future and work with him.”

While Dëmin only scored three points the following game in San Antonio and missed Monday’s game in Houston, the rest of the Nets stepped up to be competitive despite losses. Thomas recorded his first 40-point game of the season against the Spurs, the 10th of his career. He battled Victor Wembanyama who scored 31 in the 118-107 victory as San Antonio recorded their third win in the first three games.

After Monday the Nets sat at 0-4, the lowest mark in the league. It’s going to be a long and difficult season in Brooklyn, but still one worth watching as long as the Nets can continue their development and competitive play.

Bowl Bites 5K Raises $5,000 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

BQE Admin on October 31, 2025

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BowlBites hosted its fourth Run & Refresh community 5K run on the evening of Thursday, October 23, bringing together nearly 100 runners for a spirited, community-paced run through the scenic trails of Forest Park.

Watch the recap video here.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of Bowl Bites’ tight knit community and support from sponsors Zara Realty—a philanthropic real estate group known for its commitment to local causes—and Heroes Basketball, a staple youth and men’s basketball league in Queens, the BowlBites team successfully raised $5,000 to fund care packages for cancer patients.

“This run was about more than just fitness—it was about coming together as a community to make a difference,” said Kevin Baksh, co-owner of BowlBites. “Seeing so many people show up, donate, and support the cause reminds us why we started these runs in the first place.”

The BowlBites 5K Run Club has quickly grown into one of Queens’ most positive and inclusive community movements. Over the past year, the brand has collaborated with Nike and welcomed appearances from high-profile musicians and Division I athletes, building a loyal network of runners and supporters who believe in the power of food, fitness, and community impact.

“This was our fourth run, and every time, the energy gets bigger,” said Amir Aldoais, co-owner. “It’s not about speed—it’s about showing up and standing together for something meaningful.”

After the run, the group gathered back at BowlBites to cool down, refuel, and share in the spirit of community. The evening concluded with heartfelt words from cancer survivor Mike Troll, who grew up in the neighborhood and spoke about the importance of unity, compassion, and supporting one another through life’s challenges. His message resonated deeply with the crowd, reinforcing the sense of purpose behind the event.

The BowlBites team is personally assembling and delivering care packages to cancer patients at a local Queens hospital—a heartfelt continuation of their mission to give back.

Chef Mike Saroop, who leads the BowlBites kitchen, added, “We serve food that fuels people every day. This was our way of fueling hope—one step, one bowl, and one care package at a time.”

“Zara Realty and Heroes Basketball have been incredible partners. Their generosity and leadership helped turn this into something truly impactful,” added co-owner Esteban Acosta expressed gratitude for the sponsors and community.

Watch the sponsor tribute video here.

To follow the story and see the delivery in action, visit @bowlbitesnyc on Instagram.

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