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GLOBAL SPORTS PROGRAMMING NETWORK
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June 29th, 2001
Franchise Records
By Ron Chambers
1) Brooklyn 172-50 .775
This is the only team in the league to have won there division all three
years. They have won the conference twice and finished second in season 1.
The Rage have had one of the most stable line-ups in th eleague. They
finished seaosn 3 with three of their original staters still starting. They
have had their share of tragedy with their projected starting point guard,
Bill Meyers, dying in a car accident between seasons 1 and 2, but have still
managed to be very stable. They will face a huge test this off-season with 3
starters as free agents and 2 key resrves also being free agents. Any owner
in the league would be a little nervous with 5 players from their 8 man
rotation on the free agent market.
2) Colorado 163-59 .734
Colorado has gone from the worst team in the Pacific Division in season 1 to
a record setting season in season 3. I have a hard time imagining that their
record of 73-7 this season will ever be broken. They and Brooklyn are the
only teams to ever win over 80% of their games in back to back seasons. This
team is built around the best player in the league, Boom-Boom Casey, which
means as long as he stays they will be good. It is doubtful that they will
be able to resign both Boom-Boom and Steve Peterson who are both free agents
so they will likely drop a notch but don't expect them to drop too far.
3) Midland 156-66 .0703
The bad news for Midland is that they took a step backwards this season. The
good news is that they are in a much better salary cap situation than
Brooklyn or Colorado so they should be better next season than this season.
They traded away their chances at a title during the off-season to make sure
that they would be good for years to come. Most observers expected this team
to drop much further than they did but even after dismantling their team
they still managed to go 51-29.
4) Berlin 150-72 .676
This team has always been a step away. They have finished second in their
division once and third twice. Still, they have a better franchise record
than any team who has ever finished above them. They are a nother team who
had serious salary cap issues but traded away Pete Bento and Mike begley for
Horace colbert which buys them another season. A big part of their success
has been super star Jerry Simms who is signed to a long term deal. Their
current concern is rookie stand out Dave Williams who due to being drafted
late in the second round only has a one year contract.
5) Cincinnati 149-73 .671
Cincinnati took much the same approach as Midland in the of-season. They
dealt away many of their top players only retaining their best star, Jim
McCarthy. What this has done is make them unable to win a championship this
year but made them have a bright future. They were also able to acquire
several first round picks ove rthe next few seasons. None of them look like
they will be top picks but if tthey draft well they may find the role
players they need.
6) Boston 140-82 .631
They may only be ranked #6 but no team ahead of them has a championship like
they do. This is a team that is built entirely around their top 5 players.
There is NO depth and they have no first round pick this year so their is
little chance of them acquiring any. Their real problem will start to show
up after season 4 when their second set of super stars becomes free agents.
They are currently the best team in the league 1-4 but their is no way they
will be able to keep all 4 stars.
7) London 140-82 .631
After two seasons this was the best team in the league. Then they went
32-48 last season after being hit by retirements. They have some talent and
their own first round picks for the next two seasons but it will be hard for
them to get back to their past glory. They should look at what has happened
in Nebraska and take heart that something good can be made out of nothing.
8) New York 138-84 .622
This may surprise a lot of teams but despite their love of trading New York
is one of the top franchises in the league. They are one of only 5 teams to
have a winning season every year (Midland, Cincinnati, Berlin and Brooklyn
are the others). If you look at their roster today it is very good their
problem is that isf you look at their roster last season it was very good
and TOTALLY different. Unless this team learns to hold on to tallent and get
better by tinkering with the roster not over hauling it they will never
reach contention status. But, they could probably still be one of the better
teams year in and year out.
9) Roswell 138-84 .622
I'm already expecting to hear the complaints. Yes their record is the same
as New York's and yes I ranked them after New York. In fact Roswell will
have a legitimate complaint, they did reach the finals last season. So why
the lower ranking? I would love to blame it on them trading away Boom-Boom
Casey but that wasn't actually it. They had resigned Tom Perkins to a long
term deal and then they traded him and their starting Center. They could
have been serious contenders this season but they game it all up because of
fear of the cap. They went from the WBA Finals to 42-38.
10) Albacete 87-73 .544
'Cete is the clear stand out among expansion teams. They have 20 more wins
than Tokyo who is second among expansion teams. the have the ability to
recognize quality and get ahold of it. Unfortunately, none of their top
players have long term contracts. But, the spacing of when the contracts
expire is pretty well spaced so they should be able to deal with it.
11) Nebraska 114-108 .514
They one the Championship in season one but they were only the 5th best team
in the West heading into the play-offs. Nothing like getting hot at the
right time. After season 1 a lot of their vetrins chose to retire and they
struggled in season two only winning 21 games. Along comes a new owner and
along comes new success. Brandon Morfeld ttok over the team near the end of
season two and totally revamped them during the off-season. With a 35 game
increase in the win column he stands a good chance at executive of the year.
12) Sydney 112-110 .505
Season 1 they were one of the best teams in the league. In season 2 they
were okay. In season 3...welll when does season 4 start? They actually have
some hope for season 4. They won't be a top team but they have some tallent
and 3 first round picks so if they draft well they should be improved.
13) Montana 110-112 .495
This is a franchise that gave up their future in season 1 for a championship
and then didn't win one. Then in seson 2 they were very bad along with most
of the Pacific Division. Then they got new management moved to Montana and
look to have a future. They don't have mush as far as picks over the next
few seasons so free agency will mean a lot to them.
14) Cancun 109-113 .491
Over half of their wins came in season 3. They have a ton of young tallent
and should be a team to watch in the future. Scott Nicholson has a chance at
developing into one of the best players in hte league.
15) Washington 106-116 .477
This is another team that had a huge turn around this season.What's scary is
that they have 8 first round picks over the next 3 years. They will be a top
team for years. What will be important for them is deciding what tallent to
sign to long term deals and what tallent to let go.
16) S. Carolina 99-123 .446
This team has always been hard to get a read on. Most people thought that
chaging ownership mid season was a good move but the team went into a tail
spin. In Defense of the new ownership SC had a much easier schedule in the
first half of the season than the second. But, more than that this is a team
with out an identity, which I think we will se develope in the off-season. I
expect this team to be at least a little better next sesaon.
17) Winifred 97-125 .437
From bad to good to bad. They made some poor decisions in the off-season in
regards to free agents and had some player retire. But, they have 3 first
round picks and some cap room so they should improve.
18) Tokyo 67-93 .419
They have some great young tallent and $21 million dollars under the cap so
expect to see them much higher on this list next year.
19) Maine 91-131 .410
This franchise has been middle of the road for three seasons. They have some
key free agents and some cap space but no picks. this off-season will be
very inportant if they want to improve.
20) Adelaide 85-137 .383
They were one of the bright stars of the WBA when they were in Marysville,
but Adelaide hasn't been as kind. As with many teams this is a key off
season. They have a couple of low level first round picks and some cap money
so they could make a step in the right dirrection.
21) Gabon 83-139 .374
For two years they were the joke of the WBA now the Rookie all-stars as they
were often called during the season finished the season with the 3rd best
record. They have a ton of tallent and 2 more first round picks this season.
They will be a mjor player for a long time.
22) New Orleans 59-101 .369
They have a couple of first round picks one of which will be very high and
they will have a ton of cap space. At the very least they should be able to
buy a competative team.
23) Indiana 82-140 .369
It's hard to say it depends a lot on how the new management does.
24) Baltimore 81-141 .365
This is another tyeam that could see huge changes but they have a nice core
if they can hold on to it.
25) Chacarita 58-102 .363
I thought this team was going to be better than they were this year. They
have some good tallent but, we'll have to watch to see how they build around
it.
26) Varese 78-144 .351
They have a new owner that is looking forward to starting from scratch and
that is about all he has. At worst he should be able to draft better that
the team did the last two seasons.
27) Bermuda 32-128 .200
Imagine that an expansion team that was worse in their second season!
28) Myrtle Beach 25-135 .156
This franchise really floundered to start with but i actually think they
have a plan now and I expect them to be improved next season.
June 22nd, 2001
Spitting Fit
Nick Barton of New Orleans is usually a calm veteran but today in Chacarita he couldn't take it any more. Chacarita has a reputation for abusive fans but they have typically only taken it out on rival Albacete. Today Barton got fed up after a relentless verbal attack from a fan and spit in his face. The league has suspended Barton for one game.
June 22nd, 2001
A Sad Day in Montana
Today is a sad day in Montana as fan favorite Fred Fryman was in a car accident. While the team is relieved that he was not killed the will miss his presence on the court for the rest of the season and in the play-offs.
June 19th, 2001
League Update
Ray Valdes will miss tomorrows game due to the stomach flu. Broderick Tillman strained his sholder and will miss his next 10 games.
May 26th, 2001
No Davidson No Problem
By Homer Simpson
(New York)- The fans here are going wild after the Firestorm defeated the Berlin Blaze 91-86. The Firestorm who played the game without star pg Kelvin Davidson. He was the emotional leader today after he turned an ankle against roswell. His two replacements Roger Starr and Junior White had a combined 23 pts and 3 assists 6 turnovers and 4 steals. The Firestorm only had 16 assists but they beat Berlin in every other one.
Recently acquired Johnny Brose lit up the glass with 16 rebounds and 7 offensive boards in 30 mintues. Pete Benton and Mike Begley each acquired in the Hoarce Colbert deal played pretty good as Benton had 18 pts and 12 borads before fouling out 30 minutes in. Begley had 13 pts and 8 boards in 41 minutes. They all played great but the star of the game goes to Scooter Jacobs. he didnt score the most pts on the team but his defensive skills led to the victory. He held Rookie sensation Dave Williams to 19 pts one of his lowest totals all season. He held Williams to 33% shooting and Williams turned the ball over 7 times. Jacobs had 14 pts 7 assists and 6 steals in his 41 minutes.
Notes- Colbert had 25 pts and 15 boards in his first game in a Blaze uniform. One fan was arrested after trying to throw a battery at Colbert. He missed and it hit another fan. The other fan was treated for minor injuries and released. The guy who threw it will be in jial for the next 45 days.
May 26th, 2001
Liz Lester Reports...
"HI all, Liz Lester here in the Colorado dressing room, after their crushing of Myrtle Beach, and off course we speak with the man of the day, STEVE PETERSON. Steve, an incredible individual effort of you tonight!!! "
" What can i say Liz...I can tell you that Myrtle beach isn't a top team, and that i have to thank my team mates who helped me get there, but anyway you turn it, a quadruple double like this is just plain great!!! "
" I can understand you're all smiles now, Steve. Do you think performances like this will get you the recognition outside of Colorado that you somehow lacked this year? "
" I don't think so, Liz. Some people just want to believe hype instead of overall ability. You have to be the best at one thing to get noticed by the casual fan. A player like me, who can do it all, and do it well, is only valued by the knowledgable fan. But perhaps a quadruple double will get me some attention! "
" And you deserve that, Steve, with the numbers you put up in this Colorado team!! You should be a certainty for the All Star game. For now, back to the Studio in Denver! "
"Thank you Liz.....and for those that haven't seen the game, here are Peterson's numbers in the Myrtle Beach game:
FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
Steve Peterson 42 10-17 0- 0 1- 3 5-12 16 5 0 2 11 21
May 25th, 2001
And Another Trade
As Trades start to go through PF/C Jimmy Waters of New Orleans is
packing his bags up to move to Boston, While G Tim Elliot and F Steve Felix
will be packing for New Orleans.
As their final game rolled through Felix scored 2 points and blocked a
shot in a quick 7 minutes. While Tim Elliot once again didn't play behind
Jeff Baileys 48 minutes.
While Boston Bound Waters led New Orleans in his final game with 20
points (off 9-14 from the floor 2-2 FT line) 7 rebounds and 4 blocks with 1
TO and 2 Steals in 29 minutes of play.
(Note : Don Sanford was also released and picked up by boston to make this
trade possible he played 2 minutes in his last game with NO)
We asked the players what they thought of the trade their replys were :
Waters - "I loved New Orleans even though we have been struggling, but its
all in the best plus Boston has a very powerful team and I think I can help
shake things up out in the East."
Elliot - "I'm glad this went through my lack of play throughout the year has
kindof discouraged me but I know I'll be treated better out here"
Felix - "I really had found a home at Boston even though I didn't see the
floor a whole lot I liked it but i'll turn in my chance to go all the way
for a little exposure anyday"
Who got the better deal New Orleans or Boston? by the stats above it
looks like Boston but you will be suprised once the season rolls on.
May 22nd, 2001
WBA NEWS
In a late press conference this afternoon in Baltimore, Maryland, the
Golden Beavers announced they had reached a trade agreement with Midland,
holding true to the expectations of many in the league who had expected
Baltimore to deal their all star center Marty Williams. Williams joins
his 4th team in the last 2 years as he, back-up point guard Phil Nixon,
and a second round pick in season 5 were sent to Midland for rookie
center Burt Rodriguez and 2 first round picks in season 6, inluding that
of Myrtle Beach which the Beavers are counting on to be a high lottery
one.
The long expected departure of Marty Williams was caused due to the
managements belief that they would be unable to resign him at the end of
the year. With arguably the best point guard in the league, Stub
Madison, and a young, well rounded player Mike Sewell accompanying
Williams on the list of Baltimore free agent names, the standout center
was left being the odd man out, and so was shipped to Midland for
solidity of the cap and a look towards a promising pick in the future.
Midland adds a very solid player to their roster as they attempt to take
control and win their division with a little added rebounding and
strength inside. Trading away a young prospect, if a rarely used one in
Rodriguez and a couple 1st rounders in season 6, Midland makes no secret
on their hope to be better now. With the acquisition of Williams,
Midland management now turns to the promise of this upcoming postseason,
and afterwards will worry of the free agency issues with 3 of their
stars, including Williams.
On the other side of the deal, Baltimore's made no secret that they
believed that they had no hope of resigning three of their starters and
by moving Williams for what they feel is market value, no more, no less,
the Beaver management feels like they've killed two birds with one stone
by getting a nice package in return for nothing (had Williams left as a
free agent) and two, placing themselves in a position from which they can
have a realistic chance at resigning the remaining two starting free
agents in Madison and Sewell. "The teams that are able to handle their
cap the best will be the teams who thrive in the future, and we feel like
today we made a decision that yes, may have lost us a playoff spot, but
hopefully will have eventually won us years among the top if we're able
to followthrough on our plans this key offseason.", said Pedja Jurisic,
the coach/gm.
...the team has also publically admitted to shopping around Mike Sewell,
another free agent coming up this offseason, though they have said that
with the departure of Williams, they are currently only testing the
market for their promising small forward and while they would not
hesitate to ship him away for the right price, do not feel as though they
must make a deal including him before the trading deadline. "We like Mike
a lot, but we are well aware of his contract situation and if that is
somehow best resolved by moving him, we are listening to offers" said a
Baltimore front office person, and added "...we'd like nothing better
than Mike returning to this organization next year, but we don't know
what he's thinking, and as much as we'd rather have him sign a long term
deal than any type of trade involving him, if we can get market value for
him instead of risking losing him or overpaying, we would consider a
trade that would provide that for us."
May 21st, 2001
Yet Another New York Trade
New York and Nebraska reached agreement on a deal today.
New York Gets: C Frank Fitzgerald, SG/SF Sam Connor, and 3 million in
Season 4
Nebraska Gets: PF/C Hick Hiller, SG/SF Ed Bryant, and Berlin's Season 8 2nd
New York's GM said that this move was a positive step forward. He believes
this move provides NY with the dominating Center they have been searching
for and is a perfect compliment to his frontcourt mates. New York has been
busy during this week off and used the time to restructure his frontcourt.
Acquiring Fitzgerald will fill the hole left by their deaprted star Center.
New York also gained 3 million of cap space for next season which they
intend to use to resign many of their top players. They also gain depth
with Sam Connor who nebraska had just recently signed off of free agency.
New York was excited about Connor and believed he could contribute.
On Nebraska's end it was all smiles as well. Coach Morfeld said "We would
NEVER have been able to resign Fitz with so many top tier players on the
roster. I mean, the fact was that Fitz was only a back-up Center here in
Nebraska and we feel that Hick Hiller will be just as productive if not more
so than Fitz. Hiller is the better rebounder of the two and he shoots a
high % to complement the other shooters on the team. Then we also get a
player we are VERY excited about in Ed Bryant. The kid is only 18 and we
see extreme potential in him. We felt we couldn't get any better value for
Fitz who we would lose after the season anyway. Then we also slipped in
Berlin's Season 8 2nd as added value." "And as far as what we gave up,
Connor never played for us, and the 3 mill in Season 4 is easily affordable
as all the big name players of ours will be free agents the next season. So
we are very happy to have Ed Bryant on our roster and Hick Hiller should
replace Fitz as a solid sub behind McFarland."
May 19th, 2001
Rookie Leaders
WESTERN CONFERENCE POINTS LEADERS:
1. Clifton Banko, ROS 21.5
2. Kent Mercer, CAN 21.0
3. Lou Gonzales, TOK 20.9
4. Eugene LaMaitre, MID 16.2
5. Camron Diaz, MID 16.0
6. George Foster, SYD 14.2
7. Ethan Hunt, TOK 14.1
t7. JD Yetman, NO 14.1
9. Arnold Pine, ADE 13.8
10. Raul Qvevdo, CIN 12.7
11. Kris Calhoun, IND 12.0
12. Benjamin Myers, BRM 11.8
13. Jesus Dienes, TOK 11.4
t13.Pete Merritt, COL 11.4
15. Gus Rizzolo, COL 11.2
16. Bernie Cobb, NO 11.1
17. Charlie Jones, IND 11.0
18. Heiko Van Brandt, COL 10.8
19. Burt Rodriquez, MID 10.3
20. Casey Curtis, ADE 9.2
t20.Dexter Kodak, NEB 9.2
t20.Shawn McKick, CAN 9.2
WESTERN CONFERENCE REBOUNDS LEADERS
1. Kris Calhoun, IND 15.9
2. TJ McFarland, NEB 11.5
3. Kent Mercer, CAN 9.9
4. Bernie Cobb, NO 9.5
5. Heiko Van Brandt, COL 9.1
6. Camron Diaz, MID 7.9
7. Lou Gonzales, TOK 7.4
8. Gus Rizzolo, COL 6.7
t8. Jim Wilson, MID 6.7
10. Eugene LaMaitre, MID 6.3
WESTERN CONFERENCE ASSISTS LEADERS
1. Charlie Jones, IND 6.8
2. Ethan Hunt, TOK 6.7
3. Drake Bacheman, NEB 6.1
4. Heiko Van Brandt, COL 5.7
5. George Foster, SYD 5.3
EASTERN CONFERENCE POINTS LEADERS
1. Dave Williams, BER 26.4
2. Otto Hameleers, GAB 21.0
3. Magic Toby, CHA 20.2
4. Derek Vinyard, GAB 19.8
5. Kevon Duke, WSH 19.6
6. Parker Mason, WSH 18.1
7. Jerry Bramson, GAB 16.7
8. Shane Strom, BRK 15.8
9. Shawn Newman, MNE 15.2
10. Tyler Durden, WSH 14.3
11. George Krieger, SC 13.3
12. Lou Boone, MB 12.4
13. Cristobal Dasher, WSH 12.2
14. Al Zarra, BRK 11.5
15. Myron Faris, VAR 11.1
16. Bruce Johnson, MNE 10.8
17. Leon Berthelson, GAB 10.7
18. Jim Donnelly, LON 9.8
19. Willie Toth, GAB 9.5
20. Marcellus Hoover, SC 8.8
EASTERN CONFERENCE REBOUNDS LEADERS
1. Jerry Bramson, GAB 11.7
2. Derek Vinyard, GAB 9.8
3. Cristobal Dasher, WSH 8.9
4. Al Zarra, BRK 7.6
5. Peter Langstraat, SC 6.8
6. Dave Williams, BER 6.6
7. Bruce Johnson, MNE 6.5
8. Abu Zimmerman, BOS 5.8
t8. Parker Mason, WSH 5.8
10. Blaine Brooks, GAB 5.7
WBA POINTS LEADERS
1. Dave Williams, BER 26.4
2. Clifton Banko, ROS 21.5
3. Kent Mercer, CAN 21.0
t3. Otto Hameleers, GAB 21.0
5. Lou Gonzales, TOK 20.9
6. Magic Toby, CHA 20.2
7. Derek Vinyard, GAB 19.8
8. Kevon Duke, WSH 19.6
9. Parker Mason, WSH 18.1
10. Jerry Bramson, GAB 16.7
11. Eugene LaMaitre, MID 16.2
12. Camron Diaz, MID 16.0
13. Shane Strom, BRK 15.8
14. Shawn Newman, MNE 15.2
15. Tyler Durden, WSH 14.3
16. George Foster, SYD 14.2
17. Ethan Hunt, TOK 14.1
t17.JD Yetman, NO 14.1
19. Arnold Pine, ADE 13.8
20. George Krieger, SC 13.3
21. Raul Qvevdo, CIN 12.7
22. Lou Boone, MB 12.4
23. Cristobal Dasher, WSH 12.2
24. Kris Calhoun, IND 12.0
25. Benjamin Myers, BRM 11.8
26. Al Zarra, BRK 11.5
27. Jesus Dienes, TOK 11.4
t27.Pete Merritt, COL 11.4
29. Gus Rizzolo, COL 11.2
30. Bernie Cobb, NO 11.1
t30.Myron Faris, VAR 11.1
WBA REBOUNDS LEADERS
1. Kris Calhoun, IND 15.9
2. Jerry Bramson, GAB 11.7
3. TJ McFarland, NEB 11.5
4. Kent Mercer, CAN 9.9
5. Derek Vinyard, GAB 9.8
6. Bernie Cobb, NO 9.5
7. Heiko Van Brandt, COL 9.1
8. Cristobal Dasher, WSH 8.9
9. Camron Diaz, MID 7.9
10. Al Zarra, BRK 7.6
11. Lou Gonzales, TOK 7.4
12. Peter Langstraat, SC 6.8
13. Gus Rizzolo, COL 6.7
t13.Jim Wilson, MID 6.7
15. Dave Williams, BER 6.6
WBA ASSISTS LEADERS
1. Parker Mason, WSH 9.9
2. Leon Berthelson, GAB 8.4
3. Antonio Swift, ALB 8.3
4. Jim Donnelly, LON 7.0
5. Charlie Jones, IND 6.8
6. Ethan Hunt, TOK 6.7
7. Drake Bacheman, NEB 6.1
May 19th, 2001
Bye Bye Colbert, Bye Bye Roger Rabbit
We just recieved word a few minutes ago that Berlin and New York have made a
blockbuster deal. Berlin sent Pete Benton and Mike Begley with 2 seconds to
the Firestorm. New York traded Horace Colbert along with Ron OHara to the
Blaze.
"We felt that we needed to rebuild now and with Dave Williams and Colbert
it puts us in a chance to be dominant in the near future," said Coach
Williams as he left the court a few minutes ago.
"It was a really tough trade for us to make. Colbert's been a great
player on the team and although hes been playing great for us we knew the
only way to get farther is to get some veteran leadership and a good sf as
what we did with Benton. Begley aint shabby either. I expect them to both
contribute greatly to our team. Also getting Cinci's season 4 2nd and
Berlins season 8 2nd couldnt hurt so much," said Coach Goodstadt a few
seconds ago.
This will really affect each team as it now looks like Berlin is beginning
to rebuild. They already have 3 stars on their team but it looks like if
Coach Williams will be able to pay them all will depend on Jerry Sims who is
getting paid 9 mil. Colbert will be worth at least 9 million when he gets
out of his contract season 4.
New York on the other hand now looks like they will be able to dominate.
Although they are not a top team they are close to it and there is rumors
that Eddie Jacobson is available. Coach Goodstadt has cleared 9 mil in cap
space for after season 4 and can now use it for season 3. New York needs one
more quality guy at the sg or sf position and they will be close to being
what they need.
For now it looks like Berlin and New York flipped teams. Both will make
the playoffs but it now looks like New York will be the team that goes far
not Berlin.
May 18th, 2001
Mr. Riddle goes to Washington
The Washington Monuments would like to announce that they have acquired
Center John Riddle from the Sydney Machine Techs. To get Riddle, Washington
gave up backup center Fred Cane and 2 first round draft picks this season
(Washington and Roswell). Before the trade, Washington was already one of
the best teams in the league. They proved that they could beat any team in
the league when they beat the then undefeated Colorado Pioneers on Day 24.
Word around the league was that Washington was a definite playoff team, but
wasn't a championship contender because they lacked a great center that all
championship teams have. Washington has now gotten their man. Riddle, who
has been an MVP candidate for the last 2 seasons, is averaging 24.5 points,
9.5 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1.4 steals, and shoots over 50% from the field.
Riddle said this after right before his departure late last night from
Sydney, "I have mixed emotions right now. I loved playing for Sydney and
expected to play for them the rest of my career. They however, wanted to
move in another direction, and I respect that decision. I am grateful for
the opportunity to play in the Monuments organization. They have a great
team over there and they have a sellout crowd every night. I'm glad Shaun
Ramirez traded me to Washington and not a place like New York where that
crazy owner would probably trade me if I missed a couple of shots in a row.
Once again, I just want to say how grateful I am to play in Washington. I
think we have a real shot to win it all and I look forward to the
opportunity." Owner/gm/coach Sam Plummer said this about his recent
acquisition, "John Riddle is a true professional and will add much needed
leadership to our young team. I want to wish the best of luck to Fred Cane
in Sydney. He has done a remarkable job for our team over the last 2
seasons." With John Riddle now in Washington, there is debate around the
league as to whether or not Washington is now the team to beat. They have
one of the best starting 5's in the league and have one of the league's best
benches too. They were good enough to beat some great teams before they had
Riddle, and now they're even better-- offensively and defensively. Look out
WBA, D.C. is making some noise.
May 14th, 2001
Another New York Trade
In New York’s 16th, yes 16th trade of the season the Firestorm have sent recently acquired Clifton Banko to the WBA’s newest .500 team: the XT. Roswell received Billy Christianson, Billy Lopez and a future first to go along with the sharp shooting Banko. In typical Goodstadt fashion, the Firestorm GM sends away a player in which just a few short days ago was one of the franchises prized players, but fell short of expectations and did not provide the rebounding force that NY needed up front. In another case of “giving up” on a player, Roswell sent expected Perkins replacement Eddie Jacobson packing, along with one of the XT’s hottest players Hick Hillar, Junior White and a 2nd. “I did it cause I need a rebounding PF and with Jacobson and Hillar I got what I wanted” expressed Goodstadt. He later stated that “White aint’ half bad” and that “Christiansen and Lopez aren’t the greatest things”. Who putt this guy at the helm in NY anyway?
The trade sparks a small rebuilding movement for the only pro sports team in New Mexico. The team has stated, “This move is not the last, but does not in any way indicate that the core of the team will be altered.”
In another note: Firestorm GM Steven Goodstadt was seen playing an enthusiastic game of monopoly with several little kids in the “play room” of his house Saturday evening. Apparently the Coach was heard calling Roswell GM Bryan Hasho a “loser” for not playing. The phones at the local sports radio station (WFAN) have been ringing off the hook with angry fans calling for a new coach. The decision remains to be seen.
May 7th, 2001
Team Spotlight: Bermuda Bombers
By Brad Moore
Bermuda has had one of the worst runs in the WBA. They were an expansion team that has fallen prey to some questionable and downright bad management decisions. They made just one trade before the season which was to acquire Joe Brown, Ted Groth, Colorado's Season 4 1st, and Washington's Season 6 2nd for Tyler Durden and their own Season 6 1st. The best thing out of this deal for Bermuda is that it gives them a pick a lot sooner to maybe get them a steal late in Round 1 to make a small step in the right direction. The bad thing was losing Durden, an almost certain starter, while picking up two players who are only marginally talented. As it stands right now only Varese and Myrtle Beach are worse off than Bermuda this season and I won't even say they are worse teams. When you look down the starting lineup of Bermuda it is a who's who of Nobodyville. Al Wood, Bill Milligan, Benjamin Myers, and Dennis Thomas. The lone player for Bermuda that sparks any interest is fan favorite Rod Lawrence.
At PG Bermuda starts off with Al Wood. Wood is a decent passer when he has someone who can shoot on his team and an average defensive player. He's probably the second best player on this team. At SG Bermuda plays Bill Milligan. Milligan is 38 and falling apart at the seams. This position could use a huge upgrade and Bermuda feels the lack of any adequate play maker here. At SF they play Rod Lawrence, their one go to guy. Lawrence rebounds well for his position and is a threat to score. He is the one guy that can cause any team in the league trouble if he gets on. Then at PF is Benjamin Myers. Myers is young and will need time to develop, but could turn into a decent player in a couple seasons which is something Bermuda should aim for. They're not gonna stop the Titanic from sinking, but maybe they can raise it from the ocean floor if they tie the chains up right!! Then at Center they start Dennis Norton. Who?? Exactly. I don't know either. But I do know this--in order to be successful in this league a team MUST have a dominating Center--just look at Tokyo's change. Norton is 31 and past his prime.
The bottom line is that Bermuda has an old team. And instead of being old and good as is the case most times, they are old and bad. And that is the worst case scenario to be in. The young teams are already better than Bermuda and only getting farther ahead year by year. Bermuda needs to make smart management decisions and slowly try to mold this team into a young team with potential. But they need more active management and better value in their trades.
May 7th, 2001
Team Spotlight: Berlin Blaze
By Brad Moore
Berlin exemplifies WBA success. They are in the top 5 winningest teams all time. Not many teams can boast of being in such an elite category. A large part of their success is coaching. Dave Williams knows exactly how to get the most from his players and is great at breaking down other teams in the league. A great example of this is rookie Dave Williams (the player). This guy thrives under Coach Williams gameplans, but would most likely be only above average with anyone else calling the shots. Coaches success doesn't come from making trade after trade to perfect his team, but only making smart trades right when his team needs them. He is selective about his deals and knows which players he wants and goes after them. But that is easy to do when you have such a great team to begin with. He makes smart free agent acquisitions and has a real vision of where his team will be in the future. In all, Coach Williams provides the best coaching in the league and some smart managerial skills.
At PG Berlin employs Henry Jordan. Jordan is a good shooter with average passign skills for a PG. But he has plenty of targets to choose from. He also plays solid defense and keeps his fouls down. At SG is the amazing rookie Dave Williams. This guys success has come as a shock to myself although had he been drafted by Coach Williams I would NEVER have called him a bust. Coach Williams has perfected this guys game and I have no doubt a LARGE amount of his success is due to Coach Williams. But lets not be stupid here, no doubt the guy could always score and he rebounds well for a SG. He just needs to pick up some defense and he could be nearly unstoppable. The sad part is that he will be a free agent after the season and we all know bidding will be high for such a young scorer. At SF is the veteran Jerry Sims. He was the recipient of a huge long-term contract this season. He's only 27 and he will be an impact player for many years to come, but Berlin may still regret this contract in its last few seasons and may possibly look to move Sims to a weaker team for his last few years. A lot depends on how the aging process tolls on him. But right now Sims is a dangerous player, able to both score and rebound and he stays out of foul trouble. I must admit I was a little shocked by the size of his deal, but Sims is an instrumental part of the Berlin team. At PF Berlin goes with Pete Benton. Benton is only an average rebounder, but is an excellent scorer. He also stays out of foul trouble which allows him to play solid minutes every time out. Then at C is Mike Begley. Begley is also only an average rebounder. But he plays good solid defense and is also a great scorer.
Berlin is a top rebounding team however I see that they can be taken advantage of in the frontcourt. A large part of their rebounding advantage comes from the SG and SF positions. They beat you at rebounding right there, not with the big men (who are both good rebounders, just not great). In all this is a very complete team. But they have a good number of free agents after the season and we'll see what happens then. As far as this seasons trades go Berlin made 3 of them. The first was getting Chanda, Begley, 2 million dollars, and London's Season 4 2nd for Reggie Goode, Berlin's Season 4 and 8 1st's and Berlin's Season 4 and 5 2nd's. Chanda and Begley were hige acquisitions, but a lot of this trades analysis will depend on whether or not Berlin is able to keep both these players long term. If so, then Berlin got a pretty average deal, but if they lose those guys they gave up a LOT of draft picks, some of which could be quite high if Berlin needs to rebuild. No doubt the deal helped them this season, but the long term effects are pending. The next trade they acquired Dave Williams and Tokyo's Season 6 1st for Charlie Elkington and London's Season 4 2nd. What a STEAL!!! Williams is better than Elkington, PLUS Berlin stole a 1st for a 2nd!! That was a shrewd deal by Williams who knew exactly what he was getting in Williams the player!! The last deal Berlin made was a cap related issue in which Nebraska helped him out by taking McCauley and Berlin's season 6 2nd for Cincinnati's season 4 2nd. It was a good deal for Berlin and Nebraska later traded McCauley anyway.
Berlin will be a top contender through this season and if I had to guess i would say that Dave will probably have them somewhere towards the top every season. But it will be interesting to see what happens in free agency this season for Berlin and what they end up with for next season, especially after trading their draft picks. If they don't get the guys back that they need, they could be in for a rebuilding process.
May 5th, 2001
Team Spotlight: S.Carolina Hurricanes
by: Jay Bilas
The no-name players of South Carolina are located in a no-name city, play in a no-name stadium and they're coached by a no-name kid..... anyway... who are these no-names? Who Knows? Who cares? In the meantime, we shall call them "Hurricanes."
As South Carolina's original team was shaping up in season one, their front court was looking sharp-- featuring Dave Short and Marty Williams. However, GM/Coach Corey Daubanton quickly traded them away for the future, and thus their season was over.
With many picks, SC's season two draft was practically disastrous... SC traded away the #3 pick, and received the #5 and 33 picks. South Carolina also had the #8 pick-- unfortunately, they traded that pick and the #33 pick away for Ed Kane, who they eventually traded for McCauley... who they eventually traded for Gene Allen.... yikes! South Carolina basically took Gene Allen as the #3 pick... that hurt. However, the Hurricanes did snatch Paul Wilson at the #5 spot.
South Carolina made the best of season two, posting a respectable 48-34 record, and the #6 seed in the East. The team was very balanced-- they had seven guys average double digits, including Gene Allen (18.1), Ed Bryant (16.0), Pat McDaniel (14.5), and a few others. South Carolina also had the leading rebounder in the league, Paul Wilson, who averaged 15.2 boards per game in season two. In the playoffs, the Hurricanes stole game one from the Berlin Galaxy, but they dropped the next three games, and were eliminated.
Having the youngest team in the league, the SC staff expected a great off season... it never came. 18-year old Charlie Brown received a nice multi-year contract from the Hurricanes; he was suppose to have a breakout season this year, but he has turned out to be a bust thus far. "He has Jermaine O'neal-type potential-- it will take a few years for him to blossom," said a WBA Scout. A few years? South Carolina needs him now! Who can they rely on now? ah yes, their draft pick, Marcellus Hoover-- the Burger King HS Player of the Year. Actually, it will take him a few years to blossom as well... on to Plan F: Sign free agents..... South Carolina picked up injury-prone free agent, George Krieger. Krieger can score a lot, but to get him SC had to cut someone... that someone was Ed Bryant.... why? why? why? Why cut an 18-year old?
Throughout the history of this franchise, many questions have been asked... but, very few answers in return. "Daubanton is an unpredictable one," said former SC player, Wes Ford. "He's kind of like that Billy Haywood person from that baseball movie-- trying to fit in, and show the guys he can run the show. Though I'm still wondering why he didn't want to re-sign me... perhaps when you reach 25, you're considered old and useless. Maybe if I show him the ladies, he will 'show me the money.' Without me, South Carolina is hurting for a bench captain-- i just don't think Charlie Brown has the experience to deal with the pressure."
At the start of season three, the Hurricanes started out 9-3, and were surprisingly doing well. Many analysts, including myself, didn't think this South Carolina could keep up the pace. South Carolina has proven they can score, with Pat McDaniel and Gene Allen averaging above 16 per game... but, they forgot about defense! I think the Hurricanes miss Wes Ford... not really. What South Carolina really lacks, is a big time star. I'm not talking about a Paul Wilson type... South Carolina needs a versatile player, who can carry them under pressure situations. Until then, South Carolina will stay as a .500 team, and fight for a playoff berth.
April 28th, 2001
Team Spotlight: New York Firestorm
New York has been a very effective team the last couple seasons in the
WBA. Last season they made the playoffs only to be knocked out early on.
But the Firestorm are back for this season with a new look. After last
season they cleaned house making 15 deals so far in Season 3. Whether these
deals made the team better or not remains to be seen as the Firestorm have
started off 10-7 this season. By scanning down their long list of trades it
is amazing how often you see them acquire a player or draft pick only to
deal it away shortly after. They have a very high player turnover rate in
New York. Only 2 of their starters remain the same as last season and those
are the backcourt duo of Kelvin Davidson and Scooter Jacobs. Kelvin
Davidson is one of the WBA's elit point men. He runs the show quite well
for New York. He is an excellent passer and can put the ball through the
hoop when no one is open. Jacobs is all about scoring. He is the main go
to man on this team for jump shots. Jacobs is the teams leader and all the
other players look to him. He's worn the uniform longer than most of the
guys and started for New York as long as I have known. Their backcourt is
not a question mark for New York as I think anyone in the league would agree
they are very talented.
The forward positions are another matter altogether. Roy Robinson has
lost his shooting touch and can no longer hit shots with consistency. And
he doesn't even bring a dominating rebound style to the New York lineup.
The SF slot is quite weak on the team in my opinion. Then there is newly
acquired rookie Clifton Banko. There is no doubt this guy can lead Indiana
in scoring, but can he score 20 a game in New york?? I don't think so Tim!!
Banko will be an effective offensive player I believe, but when he is
forced to share the ball his offensive numbers will drop and he doesn't play
defense or rebound at all. New York will take a huge hit on the boards by
playing him at PF and will also play worse defense. The forward slots on
this team are highly suspect in my opinion and are going to be the major
difference in this teams wins and losses.
Now for their Center--Horace Colbert. This guy can win games for New
York. He rebounds and plays solid defense and he can score too. Getting
him was one of the smartest moves by New York management all offseason. It
brought in a dominating center which all the top teams must have. He has
proven his worth this season so far by dominating some games.
New York is a borderline playoff team in the Eastern Conference. They
are in need of a large rebounding presence at PF which it seems most teams
in the league are. So it will be very difficult to find one. They could
also use some help at SF. New York doesn't have very many draft picks left
either. It seems that every time they stockpile draft picks they end up
dumping about 3 or 4 of them all at once in some deal. So this team will be
looking to make deals and sign key free agents to get back to where they
have been in the past.
My final prediction is that if the Firestorm can acquire a SF or PF that
can rebound or if they avoid all injuries then they will make the playoffs.
But it will be a long hard season for them and they need to remain focused
and take it one game at a time. If they do that they have the talent at the
guard spots and at center to surprise some teams. I don't think there is
anyone they can't beat, but there aren't many teams that can't beat the
Firestorm either. It will just depend on how well those forwards stand up
on any given day.
Brandon
GSPN writer
April 28th, 2001
Team Spotlight: London Disco
by Al W. Bush
For the first 2 seasons of the WBA, the London Disco were a championship
caliber team that put fear into the hearts of many. Yet, despite being the
WBA's all-time leader in wins for a franchise heading into this season,
London came up short in their ultimate goal of winning a championship. I
use the phrase, "came up short" loosely. It started in the preseason
tournament in Season 1 with a loss in the championship game. They dominated
the Eastern Conference in the regular season and playoffs, and found
themselves in the League Championship against the underdog, Fernie Fire
Starters, who have now relocated to Nebraska. The heavily favored Disco
fell behind in the series 0-3, putting their Championship hopes in serious
doubt. London eventually lost to Fernie 4-2 ending their comeback bid.
London management shook things up a bit in the offseason after their
disappointing loss in the Finals. Other owners around the league felt that
London took a few steps back and their chances of getting back to the Finals
were very slim. London tried to prove their critics wrong by having a great
pre-season. They reached the pre-season championship game, but once again
lost. They were tabbed as the Buffalo Bills of basketball. Three
consecutive chances to win a championship and all three ended in defeat.
London was poised to have a great regular season and did, finishing in 3rd
place with 50+ wins. London steamrolled their opponents in the first 2
rounds, with both series ending in sweeps. London seemed ready to make
another run at a Championship Final. A division rival in the Boston
Massacre was the only thing that could stand in their way. Boston proved to
be the better team by sweeping the Disco in 4 games and later on won in the
WBA Finals against Roswell. After their season ended, London decided to
evaluate their team as a whole. London management felt their season was a
failure, but instead of blaming their players, they blamed themselves. The
well-respected Andy Dawkins stepped down as owner of the Disco. Dawkins
however, left in the middle of the offseason and ownership of the team was
transferred to David Song. It took a while before Song could officially
take over and London was at a standstill in negotiations with their free
agents. Their young, budding superstar in Buck Jones was a free agent and
was seeking a long-term contract. Jones got what he wanted by signing to a
tune of a 7-year $70 million contract, but with the Winifred Rebels. Jones'
flee to North America immediately made London a worse team and started to
put the future of the Disco in doubt. Song was forced to go in the
rebuilding mode in hopes of one day bringing the once proud London franchise
back on the map of the WBA's elite. Acquisitions of 24-year old center,
Charlie Griffin (18.6 pts., 11.9 rebs.), and the Foreman brothers (Maury and
Steve) highlighted a wild off-season. Though London has struggled out of
the gate early thus far (6-11), their current 3-game winning streak, and
recent wins over quality teams like Brooklyn and Tokyo, give Disco fans
something to cheer about while their team goes through the dreaded
rebuilding stage. If everything goes according to plan, in a couple of
seasons, the Disco should be fighting for a championship. Well, maybe
runner-ups. Let me remind you of a quote by former Notre Dame football
coach, Lou Holtz, after his team finished 2nd in the country in the polls
one year. "If you finish second in the country, they call you an idiot. If
you finish last in medical school, they call you doctor."
April 26th, 2001
Will the Pretenders be Contenders?
After getting Banko, can the PRETENDERS become CONTENDERS?....I think defensively Banko isn't that great at all...he can't rebound can't steal the ball or block at the PF position. But of course, as we all know, he can
defintely shoot the ball. Can this lead New York to the top of their division or even in to a title contender? I know this might sound kinda crazy but having too much offensive minded player on one team can actually hurt the team overall. For example, everyone made fun of Marc when he traded Taylor for Van Brandt and Peterson. But look at him now ..he's won 16 str8 and is
prolly the favorite to win it all. He got better defensively and overall he got a great PG and a solid PF who can rebound and score. I think that having two great players on one team that always need to shoot the ball does not
allow 1 of them to flourish, therefore, hurting the team overall. We'll see how Davidson, Colbert, and Banko work out in NY.
April 21st, 2001
WBA and Drugs
Last year both Pee-Wee Stoddard and Sam Sewell lost their season's due to drug activities. While Stoddard spent the time in jail for criminal offenses Sewell missed the season due to violating the leagues drug policy. "We take this issue very seriously," said league Commissioner Rondall Reynoso. "We feel players in this league should be model citizens. Whether they like it or not a lot of kids look up to them so we have taken a very hard line on illegal drug usage. Last year the league lost two stars to drugs you think players would learn." Unfortunately, some players don't learn. Ray Johnson of Berlin was suspended today for the remainder of the season after he was found to have violated the league drug policies.
April 21st, 2001
Flying Can's in Colorado
In today's game against Adelaide a fan hit Eric Salazar on the Ankle with a full beer can. Salazar's ankle is swollen and he will miss monday's game. Police are still looking for the suspect but believe it was unintentional and that the fan was actually trying to hit an Adelaide player.
April 20th, 2001
The Nebraska Perspective
Coach/GM Morfeld: "Nebraska is VERY glad to have Wayne Taylor and we plan
on treating him with the highest respect and regard as a superstar. As for
his locker room presence it is amazing. The guy is only 18 and already he
motivates and challenges the other players. He raises this team to a new
level. But, that's what we all expected. He will be a truly amazing player
in this league for a long time and he seems to like it here in Nebraska."
PTS Sports also interviewed Wayne Taylor about the trade:
PTS: Wayne, were you shocked by being traded?? What went through your
mind??
Wayne: I was completely shocked! I had been told for a LONG time that I
was untouchable and would play my entire career in Colorado. I mean, there
were always rumors and teams asking, but I never thought any of them would
ever put forth an offer Colorado would accept. I never really minded
playing alongside Casey. We always got along pretty well and I realized I
was a developing player. But I suppose eventually our egos may have
clashed. And as far as what went through my mind.... I don't even remember.
I just know I was sad the day i had to clean out my locker and walk out of
the locker room. I left behind a lot of friends. But it all changed once I
got to Nebraska, put on the uniform, and heard the reaction of that crowd
just for me. It was amazing.
PTS: So, are you happy with the deal?
Wayne: Of course. I love it here in Nebraska. Lay back and watch some
college football, go to the world's largest zoo, and I got myself a nice
Nebraska girl too (smiling)
PTS: Awwww--watch it young man--you're only 18!!
Laughing
PTS: Well, good luck this season, do you think you'll need it??
Wayne: Luck is always good to have, but skill is better. At Nebraska we
have skill. But the luck will be what can push us over the top!
PTS lastly interviewed Garth Donohue
PTS: So, what was your reaction to the trade?
Garth: Well, it was awesome to hear that Wayne was coming to play here. I
think it really made all the guys ears perk up when it was announced. I
remember when we heard it from Coach Morfeld we were sad for Peterson and
Heiko, but remember that this team has 14 brand new players on it so it
wasn't like we had all been together for very long. I think this team will
only get better as the season goes on. As we all start to form our team
identity. But no doubt Wayne brings a presence to the locker room. The guy
is an amazing player, but an even more amazing person. He gives to
charities locally and he loves to sign autographs wherever he goes. He just
loves the people that make basketball what it is and the fans here in
nebraska have fallen in love with him. I think he will be here for life--if
he ever left I think it would kill Nebraska basketball. He has so quickly
become an icon of a sport and a team.
April 20th, 2001
A visit to Pueblo, Home of the Pioneers.
by Liz lester
After their Domination of the pre-season, and now their storming out of the gate to a league best 10-0 record, the time is ripe to visit one of this years leading contenders for the WBA title, the Colorado Pioneers.
The franchise, wich saw a major turnaround last year, after acquiring All star Boom Boom Casey and drafting teenager Wayne Taylor, saw another major change of direction with the trade of Taylor to nebraska during the preseason. To start of our visit to Colorado, we will talk about that trade with Colorado's huge, and i mean that literally, Boom Boom Casey.
"Boom Boom, Surely you must have ben suprised at seeing Taylor go. It was tought that you two would be the core of this Colorado team for ages."
"Yes Liz, i was a bit suprised at first. But after a few training sessions with the guys that were brought in, i saw the wisdom of the trade...Wayne and Me were getting in eachohters way sometimes, both wanting to dominate. These new uys are totally differnt. They play a totally differnt game. They rebound, they steal....And they pass the ball to me..now that is something wayne would not do. Wayne has his own team to shine on now. Peterson is just plain huge, and van Brandt is to me the most underrated player from the draft. Nobody talks about him, but the guy is just so intense, and he plays without making any mistakes....his defense is soo huge. Sure we wil miss Kodak, who's a great guy next to being a good player and Taylor, but for the team, Peterson and van Brandt are what we needed. "
" What do you think this season will bring Colorado? "
" Liz, anything less then a place in the conference final would be a disgrace, and anything less then a place in the championship game a dissapointment..We have the tools to win it, and we should go for it"
"Thank you, Boom Boom Casey "
Next stop in our visit here in Colorado is Steve Peterson, one of the top pg's ever to play in this young league. Steve is a young man himself still, even though he plays as a veteran, as are most of this Colorado team.
" Steve, Happy in Colorado? "
" Liz, i love it here....we have a great team , a coach who knows his stuff ( Marc Hameleers has several great honors to his credit, not in the least last years GCBA title with Amsterdam; Liz Lester) and the skiing resorts are not to far. What more can you want?"
" Not suprised you were traded twice in short sucession,a nd that there were some rumors that Mr Hameleers tried to trade you and Wright for his Son and Berthelson of Gabon?"
" Well, almost everyone wants to have me, so no, i am not suprised. I was suprised at the suggestiont hat i might be traded to gabon,a nd that Mr Hameleers was dismantling his potential WBA winning team. I guess his love for his son is big..and Otto is a good player as well, although a bit slow at times. But Gabon didn't like the deal at all..even insulted me and wright a bit int he proces...thank God i won't be playing there. Mr Hameleers and wright and me had a long talk....The air is clear here now,a nd we won't be traded,not even for Otto. We're here to get that trophy"
" Your contract ends after this season. Will you stay here at Colorado, or leave?
" No comment so far, Liz, no comment. We have a season to play first, games to win, and losses to bounce back from. After the season we will see. Mr Hameleers told me however that there will be cap space for me to resign, and that he wants me to. We will see...."
The final Station for now, here in our Colorado, is the Big Guy ( and i do not mean length) Himself, Mr Hameleers.
"Mr Hameleers, undefeated in pre season, undefeated in the regular season, even though you had some tough games, when will it end?"
" Hopefully never liz, hopefully never. But we cannot really expect this to last much longer. There are just too many good teams out there. I will be happy if we can secure home court advantage throughout the post season, but even that will be toough. I expect a lot of teams close together this year, wich is good for the league. Off course i think we CAN win it all, but so can at least 5 other teams, with a few outsiders next to that...oh, and just call me Marc, Liz!"
" Ok Marc, i will. Two questions, why trading Taylor, and didn't you give to much in that trade? and why did you try to trade away Peterson?"
" We had too many people making the shots..and to few people grabbing the rebounds and making the passes. This trade corrected that, and made us a lot stornger. Peterson we all know is huge, and van Brandt played under me in Amsterdam. He's gonna be a star in two years, and even now he's just what this team needed. Indeed, in hindsight, we may have given up a pick too mcuh, but not that much....We gained two huge players, in a year that we could win the Title..that was too good to pass up.
As far as trading peterson, It was a mistake. I wanted my son to play here in Colorado, even though the trade would have weakened my team this year. That was stupid, and i apologized to wright and Peterson,who both have been huge this year. They will stay. Period. After this year, i hope i can get them to resign for us...Perhaps Otto can play for us in the future, one day, when his days of free agency are there. We will see. In any case, I will not endanger this franchise to get him."
"thank you Marc..any last remarks?"
" Yeah, i wanna wish Taylor the best in Nebraska....The Nebraska managment is capable and I think, no KNOW , that Taylor will be huge there. he deserves the best, and being a team leader may suit him a lot more then being 2nd fiddle to Boom Boom...We will miss his upbeat attitude in the drssing room,as we will miss Dexter's, and there will be days in the future that we will curse ourselves for trading him. But i really believe this was the best for Colorado AND Wayne Taylor."
" This was Liz Lester, Colorado correspondent for GSPN news "
March 31st, 2001
Season Preview
By Will Davidson
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
Pacific Division:
Colorado Pioneers: With the West being much weaker than it has been in the
past, and with Colorado's phenomenal young guns, Casey and Taylor, I think
that this team has a shot at beating Los Angeles' season one winning
percentage of (.871) 1st in division.
Nebraska Sun Warriors: Here's a team that has absolutely none of the same
players that it had on opening day a season ago. That is good news if you
followed them at all last season. Now with another block bluster trade in
the works, look for Nebraska to win 60+ games. 2nd in division.
Tokyo Diablo: No kidding. With Gonzalez, Beard, Taylor, Dickenson, and
Hunt, this team can shoot. No doubt about that. They will also get a fair
share of rebounds and Gonzalez' interior defense can stifle even the likes
of Colorado's Casey. If any rookie will get into the All-Star game, this is
the most likely candidate. 3rd in division.
Roswell XT: Adding another quality player to this team could put them right
back where they were last season, but without Perkins this team is 'only' a
.600 team. I just don't see this team getting the rebounds they did last
season, but they will still make the playoffs, again. 4th in division.
Sydney Machine Techs: This team has a little bit of talent, but Riddle can'
t win the games by himself. After him they have Foster and not much else.
Riddle will win some games for Sydney, but the other front court players
need to be able to rebound a lot more than they are capable of. 5th in
division.
Montana Knights: New owner, new team. The previous owner apparently had a
rummage sale before he disappeared. The new guy J has already made a few
trades, and although none seem to be blockbuster deals, this team will be
much improved over last season's debacle. 6th in division.
Adelaide Aces: Another team that had very little in any form of management.
Not much here for the new owner to use to turn things around. So, it will
be a long season for the Aces. Their goal for this season should be to try
for 15 wins which won't be the lowest amount in the league this season. 7th
in division.
Midwest Division:
Midland Thunder: The thunder will roar in the Midwest this season. Some big
additions to this team include Latham, LaMaitre, and Diaz will boost this
team to the top of the division and the number 2 seed in the Western
Conference playoffs. Holt will once again compete for the scoring title with
Casey. 1st in division.
Cancun Outlaws: The combination of Nicholson, Mercer, Burke, Dobson,
Foster, and Gaston, make up the beginnings of a very good team. The average
age of these 6 is just 20.7 with non being older than 22. Watch out for
these guys! 2nd in division.
Cincinnati Cyclones: With a couple of questionable trades, this team goes
from top tier to scary. Scary in that I'm surprised that with the quality
of ownership this team has that these trades occurred. Management may have