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January 18th, 2002
Mock Draft Rebutal
By Gustavo Fallano
1) Sydney - Devonta Corrigan, PF. Why, because he is the best.and he is going to help him loads. He could go for Pat Stephen, but I think it would be a mistake…
2) Bermunda - Pat Stephenson, C. Here, he needs the best for his team, he has the possibility of keeping Bryan as SG and the PG , and C are his worse spots….
He will take Stephenson, because with him and the players he has he will improve a lot. He could take Williams, but he won't, he need more of some rebound and defense at the C.
3) Adelaide - Jack Spiegel, C. They need a big man, and they need it now… he can be the core for a nice team on years to come. Like Stephenson and Corrigan, the three big mans are going to give this teams three things they are the only ones to do it very well, points, rebounds, and defense, giving some interior precense. No team without presence inside has anything to do.
4) Albacete - Austyn Williams , PG/SG. Why? He is great, defense, assists, points.. his two problems FG and fouls, none are catastrophic and in 1 or two seasons he is going to be the best PG around, battling with Chuck Henderson and the like for this title.
5) Midlands - Toni Alfonso SG. Why does he falls this low. His defense and his health. None are dangerous, but they will make him fall a little bit, expecialy his defense, that is not bad, but not good neither. If he is not available I would pick Williams or Badger, the three are just great.On my team he will excel, (no big shooters around) on another teams, he will just be great.
6) Colorado - Sage Walker C. They need a Center, and this one could please Marc. They could pick something else but they really need to fill the Center position.
7) Nebraska- Roy Base C. If he says so…
8) Colorado - Nash Badger SG . Everybody has talked about him, but I don't think the people appreciate what he can do… 2 blocks and 4 steals a game.. without talking that he is all round , rebounds, assists, and shooting… what else do you want. He falls here only because there are some great big men at the beginning of the draft, and he could very well be picked at the 4th or 5th spot… Really a steal for a pick this high, he could have been number two or three at last season draft
January 16th, 2002
WBA Mock Draft
By Brandon Morfeld
1) Sydney--Devonta Corrigan, PF. Sydney will draft Corrigan because he is a franchise type player. He will bring scoring and rebounding to a team that is severely lacking in both. He can play big minutes and is a very solid defender. He stays out of foul trouble and doesn't turn the ball over.
2) Bermuda--Tony Alfonso, SG. I think Bermuda needs to go with Alfonso here. He is the highest rated player according to the WBA scale and brings a complete package to the table for them. By looking at their roster I think their main needs are guards and a PF. They would love to draft one of the very talented C's here, but in order for this team to become more well-rounded I think they have to focus their attention elsewhere. Alfonso gives thema very versatile and elite player to build off of.
3) Adelaide--Pat Stephenson, C. Adelaide really needs to get themselves a big man. They have problems in other areas, but this is the first team that has absolutely no legit threats at the C position. Stephenson can do just about everything you need in a Center too. He rebounds, scores, plays defense, doesn't foul, is smart. He will really help this franchise to start to turn things around.
4) Albacete--Nash Badger, SG. Badger may be the best all-around player in this draft. Albacete will need to try and replace Harry Jarvis and Badger may do that and more. He may not be the offensive threat that Jarvis is, but he will more than make up for it with his stunning defense and quick hands. There isn't one thing that Badger doesn't do right except maybe hit free throws. But that can be taught. This guy is a can't miss prospect.
5) Midland--Austyn Williams, PG. Midland is praying so hard that they are able to snag a PG tolead their team into battle this year and if they can get Williams it will all come true. He's one of the best PG's to ever come out of the GCBA. He is a great scorer, an amazing passer, and an excellent defender. Plus he takes great care of the ball. Midland will be much improved if they can get him.
6) Colorado--Jack Spiegel, C. This is an absolute steal for Marc and Colorado. They never would expect Spiegel to fall this far, but it very well could happen. The teams with high picks in this draft really need to focus on the crop of good guards coming out. Spiegel is an amazing player. He plays big minutes, scores a ton, rebounds , and plays excellent defense. He will be a force in the WBA just like the top 5 picks all will be.
7) Nebraska--Roy Base, C. This is a very surprising selection. The only reason i project this is because Base played for me in the GCBA and I don't think he will be around for my #30 pick. This means if I want to draft him I'll have to do it at #7. Base may not be talented enough to deserve a #7 selection because he has foul troubles and can't hit FT's, which are two VERY bad things for a WBA Center. But I doubt I will be able to pass on one of my own players.
8) Maine--Jimmy Whalen, PG. This is a very surprising pick as well. Whalen may not even declare for the draft, but I believe if he does that Maine may draft him this high. Maybe this should weigh on Whalen's mind?? Anyway, PG's are at a premium this draft and Whalen could be one of the best with his excellent passing and good offense. Whalen also plays very good defense.
9) Gabon--Rik Kist, C. Kist is a Center who doesn't get mentioned very often, but he is still very good. He gets boards, is a great shooter, and is a very good defender. He would be a great fit for Gabon who has been looking for a defensive minded Center who can still shoot the ball on occasion. I really think he would give Gabon a great Center to build on.
10) Chacarita--Arnold Erhardt, PF. Chacarita may need to replace some free agents and I think that Erhardt would go a long ways in doing so. Erhardt is a big time scorer, and a very good rebounder. He plays very good defense and takes care of the basketball. A lot of teams have mentioned him.
11) Albacete--Mike Farrell, SF. Albacete has already filled one need at SG and now they get their second need filled with the selection of Mike Farrell. Farrell is a dynamic scorer and is probably the best defensive player available in thsi draft. This gives him twice the appeal. He has injury problems though, and that is why Albacete can get the steal at #11.
12) New York--J.J. Tchaikovsky, SG. New York will look to add some depth to their roster and I think the best way to do that may be drafting Tchaikovsky. He is a great scorer, rebounds well for a guard, and plays very tough defense. He is a great fit for New York.
13) Colorado--Sage Walker, C. Colorado is losing Riddle in the offseason and they will be looking to expand their options at Center. They may already have Spiegel, but Sage Walker is another can't miss prospect and Colorado may draft both and look to trade one after downgrades or just use one as a reserve. In any case this could be a very good frontcourt duo.
14) Montana--Gabriel Keniry, PF. Keniry is another underclassmen who may or may not declare early, but if he does I think Montana will take a chance on the youngster. Montana has already surprised a lot of people with their play this season, and Keniry will only add to the excitement. He is an amazing scorer which will take some pressure off Perkins and he is a great defensive presence. He will be a very nice weapon for Montana.
15) Cancun--Gary Agey, PF. Cancun may want to draft a big man in case something goes wrong with some of their free agents. Not to mention that they could always use depth. Agey is a great prospect. He is a good scorer, and plays the game very fundamentally sound. He has the best INT/HAR and OFF AB ratings of any PF in the draft.
16) SLC--Rondall Reynoso, PF. Reynoso is one of the best rebounders in the draft and he isn't too bad as an offensive player either. He plays respectable defense and will really help the SLC frontcourt to corral some more boards. Not to mention he isa big name player.
17) Rochester--Cameron Sampson, C. Rochester may want to try looking to the draft to replace Colbert. His high salary may not be worth it in the end. Sampson is a great player who can play heavy minutes. He has an excellent shot inside, and is a dynamic rebounder. He plays very solid defense and is under control.
18) Cincinnati--Johnny Meynardie, PG. Meynardie is an excellent pick-up this late in the draft. Cincinnati benefits from the fact that the team ahead of them who need PG's just don't value Meynardie high enough to use the higher pick on him. But Cincinnati gets a great player here that they can try to mold into a starting PG. He'll need some time, but he has all the tools.
19) Baltimore--Tyrell Hall, SF. Hall is a player that I haven;t heard mentioned very much, but he can make an impact for Baltimore. He is a great scorer, rebounds very well, passes well, and plays suffocating defense. They should be very excited to draft him in Baltimore.
20) Tokyo--Trent Jordan, SF. Jordan is an underclassmen who may or may not declare early, but if he does he will be a great pick-up for Tokyo. He is a big scorer, and one of the best rebounding SF's. He plays great defense and holds onto the ball. He is definitely an offensive weapon.
21) Boston--Scott Jacoby, SG. Jacoby is a guy that will only go this low because not many teams are looking for SG's as their #1 objective. Jacoby is a definite scoring threat who can alsoplay some very tight defense. I think he'd look great in a Boston uniform as a big scorer for them.
22) Colorado--John Kelly, SF. John Kelly is one of the best shooters in the entire draft. He passes, plays defense, and doesn't turn the ball over. He is a perfect fit for the Colorado system and could give them very solid minutes off the bench.
23) SLC--Jason King, PG. SLC will attempt to shore up it's weak PG spot by drafting a very good one here. King is a solid scorer, but his real advantage is his excellent rebounding at the PG position. That is a big time plus in the WBA. He also has one of the best INT/HAR ratings of all the PG's in the draft.
24) Gabon--Jevon Carter, SF. Carter is a playmaker. He is an amazing shooter and is great at crashing the boards. He is a very good defender and is careful with the ball. Gabon could really use him to add some depth.
25) Albacete--Greg Mitchell, SG. Mitchell is another great player who would never have fallen this far had their been a call for SG's. He is a very dynamic player who is a threat to score whenever he touches the ball. He passes well and plays some of the best defense you've ever seen.
26) Washington--Emillio Browne, SF. This team doesn't really need a SF at all, but I don't think Samcan pass on his own player from the GCBA. He'll be very happy to see Browne fall this far I think and he may even make room on his team to get Browne some playing time.
27) Brooklyn--Tyron Moreno, PF. Brooklyn will be looking to draft PF most likely. Moreno is an excellent rebounder and is a pretty good scorer. He alsoplays some defense and takes care of the ball. I think he would be the best fit available for Brooklyn.
28) Winifred--Charlie Hernandez, C. Winifred needs a lot of help. The great teams in this league all have dominating centers and Winifred has to start somewhere. Hernandez is an amazing shooter and an absolutely amazing rebounder. He doesn't foul much and takes care of the ball. He may need to be taught some defense, but this is a great cornerstone for Winifred.
January 15th, 2002
Franchise Rankings
By Ron Chambers
To me there are two true tests of a franchise. One is to win the championship. This is the goal of every franchise. The other may actually be a more telling indicator of a franchises success: there all-time win loss record. It's important for a team to be good in a season especially if they are good enough to win the championship; just ask Nebraska, Boston and Brooklyn. It's nice to be the champ. But, that is one season and there is also an element of luck in it. The all-time record is a much more reliable test and any luck that affects the record is sure to balance out over the coarse of a few seasons.
1) Brooklyn 236-66 .781
It is hard to imagine a franchise being more successful. They have won a championship and have the best all-time record of any team. They took over the number one spot last year and with a 64-16 record this year they made sure not to loose it. Stars Joe Siebert, Gene Allen and Shane Strom are all signed to long term contracts and they are expected to resign A.J. Schulz this off-season. With that core of players they should be able to stay very good for a long time. The main worry for them is point guard since they most likely will not be able to keep both Schulz and Woody Reynolds this off-season. Justin Krueger has shown himself to be an excellent all-around point guard off the bench but will he be ready to start next season? He is several years younger than Reynolds is so he has time to mature but that won't help next season. While Brooklyn may take a small step backwards this off-season don't expect it to be much of one. They lost more talent last off-season with John Davis and JJ McCauley than they will this year and turned out to be just as good.
2) Colorado 233-69 .771
As successful as a season as Brooklyn had and Colorado still closed ground. You can see why they have become known as "Those Darn Pioneers." The odds are that at this time next season they will be the number one team. They have had the top record the last two seasons and look to be even better next year. The only major contract they have ending this off-season is John Riddle and you'd be surprised how un-major of a contract that actually is for this team. With their success they will also have the easiest time of any team signing free agents. So, the golden years continue for at least one more. It will be interesting to see how they handle the following off-season when Cristobal Dasher, Heiko Van Brandt and Kevon Duke all become free agents. At some point the contracts of all this talent will catch up to them. They will remain a top team in the league after that but they will have to deal with the realities of having a ton of talent and not enough cap space.
3) Cincinnati 207-95 .685
Cincinnati is the only team that has a shot at catching either Brooklyn or Colorado in the next few seasons but don't count on it because they will both be very good for quite a while still. For the next few seasons at least Cincinnati will have to be content with the number three spot. Jerry Sims, Jim McCarthy and Roger Bradshaw are all signed to long contracts, which is a good thing since they are the core of this team. The one question is if they will be able to keep Wesley Phillips. Phillips may not be a great assist man but he is a very good defender and that is what this team likes to have at point guard. Phillips is also a very capable scorer. If Cincy can keep him, they will be a powerhouse for years to come. But don't worry if they loose him they are still a long ways from returning to being called Cindy. If Phillips goes else where they will likely take a step backwards but not too far.
4) Rochester 196-106 .649
Rochester is one of the most consistent franchises in the league. They've never won their division or conference and they have never missed the play-offs. They are also the only team to win a play-off series all 4 years. Their starting 5 is as good as any teams in the league. Of their Starters only Colbert is a free agent after this season and I expect they will have a hard time trying to resign him. If they can keep him they will remain a top tea if they can't they should drop. But, they have an excellent coaching staff so don't count them out by a long shot.
5) London 193-109 .639
A year ago this was a franchise in trouble. They were the pride of the East in the first two seasons but were hit hard by retirements. But, they got a new owner and he turned things around. This is the only franchise with a new owner in the top 5. He jumped up from number 7 last season and has a good future in from of them. But, this franchise has a lot of challenges to over come this off-season. Frank Rose, Kelvin Davidson and Paul Wilson all have contracts that expire this off-season. The real test of David Song as a GM will be how his team does next year!
6) Boston 191-111 .632
With the loss of Chuck Henderson Boston took a drop this year. This off-season they need to retain their stars and find a point guard. If they can do those things they will saty good. If not, they will have some real challenges. Bill Yeager is their top priority. He and Dave Short make for one of the best front courts in the league.
7) Roswell 186-116 .616
Last year Roswell felt slighted because they were ranked behind New York despite an identical record. This year they made up for it. They are a team with only one star but they found role players who work well around him. They must keep McFarland and it would help if they found a rebounding Power Forward so that John Greene could move back to Small Forward. Jaimee Moore was a huge find. He only earns $250,000 a year but scores 18 points on 50% shooting. They have money so they should be able to improve in this off-season.
8) Midland 182-120 .603
Midland took a huge drop this season. They even traded away George Holt this season in an attempt to get back to respectability. Many think they have but they did it too late in the season. None of their contracts are ending this year so they should be much better this season. They should return to the play-offs next season.
9) Nebraska 175-127 .579
Nebraska has a championship but not under the current management. We all know they are burning for one. Their two top players are free agents this off-season but they have plenty of money to resign them. They are a top team with crafty management so they should continue climbing in the rankings.
10) New York 170-132 .563
This team had a horrible season but if they were to start next season with their current roster they would be a play-off team. The problem is that they won't be able to do that. Jeff Bailey will command big money and they don't have it to give. Still, if they can find an efficient shooting guard not a star they have enough talent to be a very good team. John Holt showed this year how much of a talent he is inside. Magic Toby has also made a great transition to the small forward position.
11) Albacete 143-106 .563
It's been three years so they shouldn't be considered an expansion team any more. Now, they are just a good team. They have become know as the giant killers since they seem to have a knack for winning big games. They have made it to the play-offs every year of their existence an honor shared with only Brooklyn and Rochester. This will be a big off-season for them with Harry Jarvis and Bill Blackstone both being free agents. They have money so they should be able to keep them. But they need to improve if they hope to become contenders.
12) Washington 167-135 .553
They are as good as any team in the league and have no major contracts expiring. They have been talking about winning the East and next year may be their chance. This team will continue to rise in the rankings. But the fact that they've won over 60 games two years in a row and still are only ranked #12 shows how poor they were the first two seasons.
13) Cancun 154-148 .483
They are the last of the + .500 teams. They have solid talent and this will be a big off-season for them. Scott Nicholson will be a free agent and they have the money to resign him. The real question is if they will go after free agents or hold on to the money for Kent Mercer next season.
14) Tokyo 116-124 .483
This team is amazingly thin for as much success as they have had over the last two seasons. Nobody in the league wonders why. It's all Lou Gonzales! In the minds of many he is the best player in the league. He has one weakness and that is rebounding. For Tokyo to take the next step they will have to get better rebounders around him.
15) Montana 145-157 .480
This team has fallen a long ways since their 54-8 record in Season 1. They traded away their future in Season 1 for a championship then didn't get it. They were bad in Season 2, still not good in Season 3 and then held it there in Season 4. They surprised every one in the play-offs but this team doesn't have enough talent to get back to their former glory. They have a nice core of Perkins, Jones and Eaton (rumored to be involved in trade talk) but need to surround them with more talent. The nice thing is that their top players all have plenty of time on their contracts. They don't have much cap space so look for improvements to come either from trades or the draft.
16) Gabon 144-158 .477
If someone picked up following the WBA in the last two seasons it is almost impossible for him or her to understand this ranking. In the last two seasons Gabon has had a record of 126-34. But, they sacrificed their first two seasons for this success when they went 18-124. This year they need to resign Derek Vinyard and then Next year they have to worry about every other contract on their team that matters. They do have the 9th draft pick this year which may help ease some pain but they will have a rough off-season next year trying to keep all their talent.
17) Carolina 133-169 .440
There is some talent on this roster. Paul Write was a very controversial signing but he has been huge. They have only had one winning season and I don't expect their next to be season 5 but they aren't that far off. Their biggest need is a big time rebounder. They were out rebounded by 6 per game so it is actually amazing that they did as well as they did. They will have to get that player either through a trade or free agency since they don't have a top draft pick.
18) Baltimore 130-172 .430
This is yet another team that started bad and has really turned it around. They have been slow and consistent about it but are now a very good team. Their victories went from 11-30-40-49. This will be a big off-season with Joe Jones and Bill Lush as free agents and several teams with a lot of money.
19) Maine 122-180 .404
Maine is a mediocre team in a strong conference. They look like they will be stable for the next few years. There are no stars and no big picks so expect any improvement to be slow.
20) Sydney 119-183 .394
No team dropped more in the standings than Sydney. They have some talent and a lot of money so they could make big strides if they get a good owner. Alvin Simpson has some issues but is a major talent.
21) New Orleans 94-146 .392
They have some good talent and a good amount of money. They are in a prime spot to build from. Rumors have it that their previous owner may be returning.
22) Chacarita 90-150 .375
They have a little talent, some money and a lottery pick. With good management this team can become competitive this next season. They have actually improved every season since they entered the league, which is a good sign. Especially considering that their last owner was a no show in the vision department.
23) Varese 113-189 .374
It's hard to believe that this franchise had the same record as Brooklyn in Season 1. They then went down every year until this year. They had a history of busts in the draft but now they seem to have good ownership. Jaxon McCall had a huge rookie year. Ed Kane, Gannon Moore, Kris Calhoun and Gus Rizolo fill out a nice young starting line that should improve. Unfortunately, Varese has no money and no draft picks. But, they have young talent and a new owner. They should improve next season as the players improve and learn to play together and as the coaching staff gets more experience.
24) Winifred 108-194 .358
This team is in a bad spot. They have some money but almost no talent. But with only 11 wins they have plenty of room to improve.
25) Salt Lake City 107-195 .354
This team has some talent. Tyler Durden has been a nice surprise for them as has Keyshawn Esso. They have a lot of money for the off-season and no real contracts coming up until next season. So they should improve. They are making smart moved but are taking a very slow deliberate path when most teams in the WBA go for that one big turn around. But, they may become a model of how to rebuild since in the next couple of years the cap will get tighter and tighter for teams and the quick turn around may become a thing of the past.
26) Adelaide 103-199 .341
There may be no team in the league with less talent than Adelaide. But, on the bright side there may be no team in the league with more money! They also have the #3 pick in this years draft. If they get a good owner they may not be a contender next year but they have enough to work with to become a competitive team.
27) Bermuda 51-189 .213
At least this franchise finally has some talent. They desperately need to improve their rebounding and they need to be able to resign Ed Bryant and Clifton Banko. They have the money to do it and they have the second draft pick this season. So they are in a good place to be improved next year.
28) Virgin Islands 42-198 .175
They had 17 wins this year, which tied their franchise record, set in their expansion year. That isn't good. They were on track for an improved season this year and then traded away their defense. They have talent. They are actually much more talented than any of the other teams that one about the same number of games. But, they don't have the right chemistry. Their biggest problem is their lack of first round draft picks. They do have a ton of second round picks. This is a franchise that needs to slow down a little bit. They don't need to become a contender next year what they need to do is win 18 or more games. They shouldn't make a bunch of reactionary trades but try to improve their team through getting role players in the second round and training the players they already have.
December 31th, 2001
Bad News for Wilson
On the eve of the play-offs Paul Wilson is having horrible pains in his knees. Doctor say that it is due to the amount of time he has played this seasons especially since he is battling day in and day out with some of the largest humans on the planet. Wilson is expected to miss the first two games of the play-offs.
December 30th, 2001
Play-off Predictions
By Ron Chambers
West
#1 Colorado vs #8 Montana
Colorado is the top offense in the league and Montana has one of the worst defenses. That is about all you need to know. WHile Colorado is known for their depth (every where except small forward) Montana isn't even deap enough to fill all five starting spots effectively. This one whould be quick. Colorado wins 3-0
#2 Cincinnati vs #7 New Orleans
I never expected this match up. Cincinnati is a real contender with an extremely impressive 7 man rotation. In addition to that they have one of the top defenses in the league. Their defense is not as good as the stats make it look, due to the weak conference, but it is still a great defense. New Orleans on the other hand is a surprise 7th seed. I never thought they would pass Montana and if it weren't for a late surge and a bad slump by Montana it wouldn't have happened. But, Cincinnati has shown that they can loose to New Orleans even if it where only once out of four match-ups. Plus, New Orleans has been a bit of a giant killer all season long. Even with that they do not have what it takes to upset the #2 seed. Cincinnati wins 3-1
#3 Nebraska vs #6 Cancun
This should be a very good series. During the season they split their games. You wouldn't expect that since Nebraska has the #3 offense and #1 defense but this league is often about match-ups and for soe reason Cancun gave Nebraska fits. Wayne Taylor for Nebraska is both their future and their now. At 19 he won the WBA scoring title and even more impressive is an all around player. Unlike other teams in the league Nebraska is all about balance. They have 6 players who average double digits and are on eof the top 3 rebounding teams (Colorado and Brooklyn being hte others) but don't have a player who averages even 9 rebounds. Honestly when you look at Nebraska's team you can say that others are better hear or there but you can't really say that they have a weakness. Cancun isn't as deap as Nebraska but when Kent Mercer and Scott Nicholson get hot they can beat anybody (yes Marc I did say anybody). Mercer is one of the top Centers in the league and Nicholson may not yeat be a top Power Forward but he is only 20. Combine those two with a very good point guard in Jimmy Foster and you can deffinately win some games even against Nebraska. Still, Cancun won 16 less games than Nebraska and I
think they will end up on the short end of this series. Nebraska wins 3-2
#4 Tokyo vs #5 Roswell
Tokyo made it two the finals last season but has really dropped off. What will be interesing about this series is that both teams are essentially one player teams. Roswell has better role players and Tokyo has a better talent in Gonzales. Both are average offenses and good defenses. I think this series will come down to Lou Gonzales. Can Roswell Contain him? If they do they should win if not they should loose. I do think that with Roswell make-up they will have more margin for error and that should put them over the top. Roswell wins 3-2
East
#1 Brooklyn vs #8 Rochester
WOW! This is not the way that Brooklyn wanted to go into this series (AJ Schulz is injured incase you missed it). Brooklyn won all four games against Rochester during the season but noe by more than 6. For those of you who think that Schulz's 2 game injury precluded a Rochester victory don't be to sure Brooklyn actually had a better record during the season with out him, including a victory over Rochester. But, that was all before Al Zarra had his run in with the Vampire which has significantly affected his play. Rochester has an average offense and defense but that is deceiving since their starting five is as good as any in the league. There is also a lot of history involved in this series. These two teams are the only two in the league to make the play-offs every season and Rochester has actually made the second round every season. you have all heard me say that Defense wins championships and a big part of that is rebounding. For those reasons and the fact that Brooklyn has already beaten Rochester 4 times I expect they will be able to pull it off in this series. But, it won't be easy. Every game will be close. This has the makings of a GREAT series. Brooklyn wins 3-2
#2 Gabon vs #7 Albacete
Gabon worked hard to win their conference and they still end up playing against a team that split with them. Including a late season trouncing. My preseason pridictions had Albacete as one of the best teams in the league and I still think that they are...on any given night. They split against to two top teams in the East but couldn't even sweep Virgin Islands. They are a very good team and have the ability to upset Gabon on any night. But can they do it on 3 out of 5 nights. Again I think it will come down to defense and rebounding. Gabon wins 3-1
#3 Washington vs #6 Baltimore
Baltimore maybe the most talented offensive team in the league. What keeps them from being the top offense is actually rebounding. Oh and Colorado. Boom-Boom Casey and Larry Chapman will be a huge match-up. But I don't think this will make the difference. I actually have to agree with Sam Plummer. It rests on the shoulders of Parker Mason. If he can play under control and not turn the ball over then Washington should win. Fortunately, Baltimore doesn't have the type of defense that will force a lot of turn overs. That means that Washington will either win or loose this series themselves. Washington wins 3-2
#4 London vs #5 Boston
The east is full of great match-ups. I know you would never guess it but these two teams also split their games. Both these teams have great offenses and mediocre defenses. Boston has two 20/10 players and then several players that I wouldn't call role players but just players. They don't say this guy scores and this guy rebounds and this guy is our defensive stopper. They just say go out and play and since they all have game it works really well. London on the other hand sends out Rose and LaMaitre to score, they send out Davidson to penetrate and dish (he happens to penetrate really well so he also scores a lot) and they send out Paul Wilson to rebound. This should be a fun series for the fans and since it will come down to offense I think that London should come out on top. London wins 3-2
Round 2
West
#1 Colorado vs #5 Roswell
Once again this is a team that Colorado swept. Roswell has talent but they are a one player team and that won't beat Colorado. They do have a small chance since they are a good defensive team but their isn't enough talent on Roswell's roster. Colorado 4-1
#2 Cincinnati vs # 3 Nebraska
This will be a good one. They split the season series and were only 3 games apart in the standings. They are the top two defenses But, Nebraska is a better offensive team. These teams are about as even as it gets. Nebraska is a little better at rebounding and has a great three point attack. I think this will be enough to pull off the victory. Nebraska wins 4-3
East
#1 Brooklyn vs #4 London
Offense verses defense. Again I say that Defense wins championships but offense sure can win games and you can tell by London's record that offense wins lots of games. As always seems to be the case in the East tehy split their regular season series. But, Strom, Zarra and Schulz have enough offensive talent to keep up with London but it is Reynolds, Allen and Siebert will be the key to Brooklyn's series. Brooklyn wins 4-3
#2 Gabon vs #3 Washington
Washington won this series 3-1but that doesn't mean that Washington is that much better than Gabon. They actually had the same record during the season. This match up is like the Cincy Nebraska series. They are VERY even. This one could go either wasy but Washington is deeper and that may make the difference. Washington 4-3
Conferense Championships
#1 Colorado vs #3 Nebraska
Finally Colorado will get a challenge. During the season Colorado actually lost a game to Nebraska. But, don't get excited they are still those Darn Pioneers. Colorado 4-2
#1 Brooklyn vs #3 Washington
Washington has been shooting at Brooklyn for the last two seasons. They couldn't catch them last season and then Brooklyn embarased them in the play-offs 4-1. They made big moves in the off-season and are improved while Brooklyn slipped a little. Still, they couldn't catch Brooklyn during the season. But, they did split their regular season series. Brooklyn wins 4-3
Finals
#1 Brooklyn vs #1 Colorado
If it works out this way it will be the first time in WBA history. Both teams are deep but Brooklyn relies on their starters more than the Darn Pioneers do. They split their series during the season but the game that Brooklyn won was close (AJ Schulz was injured) then later in the season Colorado beat Brooklyn soundly. Colorado 4-3
December 24th, 2001
WBA MOCK DRAFT
By Pedro Alcaraz Sanchez
Sidney: Devonta Corrigan SF/PF. Lets say Odell Bell can play the starter C, Simpson and Foster are nice players, but the team is very bad at rebounding. and the SF and PF spots are weak. Devonta can play any of this posutions and hes the best rebounder in draft. He takes a lot of shots, but surely that he will do it a lot better than Alvin Simpson.
Albacete (from Winifred): Pat Stephenson C. Albacete seems set at guards with Andrews and Jarvis, and they claim for a dominant C. `Steph' ccould be the man in the middle for a very exigent team who has wooed in last years at Larry Chapman and Marty Williams. He is the whole pack, being able to rebound and block like the best
Bermuda: Jack Spiegel C. If bermuda is able to sign both of Banko and Bryant, their major needs will be at PG and C. Its a hard decision to make, but this is a shame of a team at boards. Spiegel is a great scorer(the best scoring C in draft) and a great rebounder too, he just lacks of athletic ability for blocking shots, but he compensates it with a great leaping ability who will make him to steal a lot of balls
Midland (from VI): Dave Troychak PG/SG. Midland wished a C, but he traded for Williams and the 2 best Cs could be have selected at this spot. With Sewell, Brose as forwards, maybe the spot to improve is the guard. Selecting this combo guard, Midland could stablish a three players' rotation. `Chak' is a great scorer as we all know, but his defense is amazing. He has the tools to lead the league in steals, and my bet is that he can turn a team around
Adelaide: Rick Kist C. This team needs help at any position in court. Theres not a decent rebounder around, but Kubey is a decent player if you put some banger with him.Kist will score (great shooting touch), will rebound and will give this interior presence teams need. A PG would be needed too, but theres only one pick and too much needs.
Nebraska: Austyn Williams PG/SG. Im almost sure of not being wrong here (Brandon?) If he declares (he will due to team's problems) and hes still available (Midland could like him more than `Chak'). Williams is a outstanding passer who scores a lot too. 11 assists a game in college (where there are less talented players for receiving the assists) is great. Williams can take the ball from the hands of anyone...have i commented that he plays controlled?
Colorado (from SLC): Mike Farrell SF. I read in his wish list that Marc wanted a PF or C. I think that afeter the injury of Heiko, a SF is the main issue for him to be sure. Farrell have some problems with staying healthly, but any player picked will sit on the bench, and Farrell is the most talented. Hes a great shooter, who helps a lot at boards and doenst mind to give the ball to the open man. Hes a great defender helping a lot his teamates. Besides Farrell plays in control always and doents turn the ball over
Maine: Nash Badger SG. Maine really needs a SG. Hayes is a good (overpaid) PG, and they frontcourt players are correct. The SG is not a weak link, it could be the weakest ling in the Division. Badger is the most all around player in this draft. he shoots with accurancy, but he rebounds, blocks shots, is unselfish, and has the anxious to steal every ball. The team capable to pick him will be very pleased
Gabon (from NY): Sage Walker C. Gabon is a great team, and they are only a C away to contend Colorado. Sage Walker is a great rebounder, and he havent important weakness (maybe he shoots too much, but hey! he averages 20/9 in GCBA)
Chacarita: Hick Carpenter PG/SG. Chacarita is playing better than expected (how to play without a PG). With someone in command of operations, they would be a better team. Carpenter helps a lot in any category, not only passing bur rebounding and playing good defense
NY (fromVarese): Tony Alfonso SG. NY is set (more than set id say) in frontcourt. but at guards positions they could have problwems. Will be able to resign Bailey? Maybe, but maybe not. A SG would fit very well in this team. Hes a SG who has absorbed a PG, and NY could pick 2 players in one. Alfonso is a great scorer, no doubt about it, but he gives 8 assist per game, and thats crazy for a SG
Albacete (from Carolina): Arnold Erhardt PF. What about improving even more the frontcourt. Arny is a banger, just what albacete needs and besides hes able to put a lot of points every night. But if any of the PGs prevously mentioned are still around, albacete will take a serious look
Colorado (from New Orleans): Charlie Hernandez C. And now the C they needed. Hernandez is a good fit for a team who needs him in specific categoryies. He wont ask too much for the ball, but when it arrives to his hands you can count 2 more points. As for rebounds, he can do it like the best.
Montana: Tim Bohan SF. Its clear this team needs a SF at the moment. Bohan is the best available by far. Only his fouling ability puts it in question. But hes a great scorer and rebounder, and a pass-first player
Cancun: Scot Jacoby SG. There is a clear need in this team of a SG, and Jacoby is a very good scorerand would fit very well here
Salt Lake City (from Rochester): Johnny Meynardie PG. If Brad is able to spell it J it will be a smart pick. We have here a very good Pgcapable to average double digits in assits. Hes a john Stockton's clone, plays good defense, looks first for the pass, and the main thing is that he makes his teamates better
Rochester (from Albacete): Cameron Sampson PF/C. Dave needs a PF here, and Sampson is great, i think he could slip in draft because of his lack of intimidation, and because he doenst score a lot. Great shootind accurancy (when he dares to shoot)
Baltimore: Gary Agey PF/C. Maybe some player starting at PF when George Lush leaves (they havent the money to resign him). Agey can do all the little things to make Chapman shine
Cincinnatti (from Roswell): Rondall Reynoso SF/PF. Cinci has a very well defined starting five to put on court. Matt could use a polyvalent player to backup Sims and Bradshaw at SF and PF. `Baby Hicks' as hes known put decent scoring and a great work at boards
Tokyo: Jason King PG. What can make Tokyo to improve? What about putting someone on floor to assist Gonzales? King is a great distributor, and he can help Gonzales to take these boards that Tokyo needs
Boston: Jerry Kumanchick SF. Boston can be short a PG or a SF after free agency, but with lack of great PGs left, they get a SF capable to shoot and do it very well. Kumanchick is known too as a good all around player capable of getting 8 boards and block 2 shots a game
Colorado (from London): Nike Johnson, SG/SF. Colorado doent need anything at this point, and could end trading this pick. Nike will be around because of his health, but is a good player when available. Colorado could afford to pick him a let develop his health
Albacete (from Nebraska): Emilio Brownem SF. And what about an insurance in case Blackstone doesn't resign. Browne puts up scoring, socoring…and some assists very valuable for any team.
Salt Lake City (fromCincinnatti): Brad Anderson., C. SLC have Eosso, we know, but he cant put points on the score and it hurts. Anderson will take his shoots, but hes able to rebound like Eosso. Anderson has the ability to play hard defense to, blocking a lot of shots and not allowing his rival to go to the line
Washington: Jo JO Tchaikovsky PG/SG. Sam has his team set in every positions, he could use a combo guard to give some rest to Mason here
Gabon: Sergey Ivanov PG/SG. Its almost the same situation as Washington. Just a weakest PG in Gabon now in Berthelson
Brooklin: John Kelly SF. Will they lose AJ?. Rondall needs to cover this eventuality selecting a SF. Kelly can score, but he can contribute in passes and rebounds too.
Winifred (from Colorado): Gus Zeus C. Winifred needs anything, mainly the better scorer available. Gus will shoot his sneakers if necessary, but we will put some har work too at the areas a C is needed to fill
Honorable mentions: David Dewell, Jason Crawford, Jimmy Lewis, Gus Forlan, Glenn McMahonm, Tyrell Hall,Mathew Mongeli, Alex Galizkikh, Marco Jones, Sid Sowders, Hector Romer, Davonte Gonzalez, Paul O'Dell and David Song
December 24th, 2001
The Plummer Predictions
By Sam Plummer
As you all are well aware, the WBA is approaching the final week of the regular season. After looking at the current standings and remaining games left on the schedule, the playoff match-ups look like they are already set. The only possible exception MIGHT be in the East where Albacete is only 2 games behind Baltimore. Albacete looks like they have an easier schedule remaining and they would also have the tiebreaker if these 2 teams tied. The 4 and 5 seeds in both conferences are a toss up at this point, but the match-ups look certain. Anyway, I am previewing the playoffs. Come playoff time, I always like to predict underdogs, so don't take it personally if I pick you to lose in the first round.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Conference Quarterfinals
#8 New Orleans vs. #1 Colorado (Colorado won season series 4-0)
New Orleans is a tough, scrappy team and might give the darn Pioneers a scare or two in the series, but Colorado is just too much. Memo to New Orleans: Foul Heiko Van Brandt and foul him hard!! If you want to even have a chance at winning the series, take this guy out. Colorado struggled mightily without him. I didn't think it was possible, but a guy who scores 11 points on a possible 70-win team might very well be the team's MVP. For New Orleans to win, they need a player to get hot and carry them throughout the series. History has shown that, come playoff time, when a player has a hot hand, anything can happen. New Orleans has a player in Scooter Jacobs that has the ability to take over a game. If he gets a hot hand, this series could be a repeat of the GSPN Classic between Brooklyn and the Albacete led, Bill Blackstone. If Colorado shuts down Jacobs, they shouldn't have a problem.
Prediction: Colorado wins series 3-0
#7 Montana vs. #2 Cincinnati (Cincinnati leads season series 2-1)
Cincinnati has enough talent to win the WBA Championship. If Cincinnati wants to win the WBA Championship, or even win the series, they cannot take this Montana team lightly. This is a very dangerous team. It's no longer the Tom Perkins show anymore. Arnold Eaton complements Perkins nicely and Buck Jones is a wizard with the ball. One thing to keep in mind is that Montana plays a very physical style of basketball. I wouldn't be surprised if they took out a few of Cinci's players. Cincinnati is not a great free throw shooting team according to WBA's standards, so that might help Montana who is among the league leaders in fouls. Cincinnati is loaded with talent and is a great defensive team, as they have always been. This is mainly because of Jim McCarthy. The acquisitions of Jerry Sims and Roger Bradshaw during the off-season proved to be very good ones for GM Matt Mitchell, who deserves some votes for Executive of the Year. Drafting sharp-shooting Webster Hewlett was a plus also. The play of PG Wesley Phillips hasn't been spectacular, but he fits nicely into the offense and has a modest 6.7 assists average. Obviously, this team has the talent to win, but this will be a tough series to win.
Prediction: Montana wins series 3-1
#6 Cancun vs. #3 Nebraska (Cancun leads season series 2-1)
If there was one word to describe Cancun's play this season, it would have to be: soft. How the heck can this team, who has a world of talent, go on a long losing streak (wasn't it over 10 games) and play the way they have played? Is it team chemistry? What is it? Or should I say, what WAS it? Over the last couple of weeks, this team has found its niche. Beating Colorado was proof of that. If there is one team in the Western Conference that could pull a Season 1 Fernie miracle, it's this team. They are starting to gel at the right time. Unfortunately for the former Fernie team, Nebraska, they have a first round match-up. The match-up in this series that has to be watched is Wayne Taylor vs. Kent Mercer. These 2 players are each team's best players and whoever wins this battle, will give their team a huge advantage. We all know that these 2 guys are going to give you 20+ points and 10 rebounds every night. So, I think whoever wins the series will be the team that has a second player emerge. Nebraska has a couple of players in Garth Donohue and Rick Schulz who might emerge, but Cancun also has Scott Nicholson and Jimmy Foster. Perhaps, of these 4, Foster is the most vital to his team's success. Foster is second in the league in turnovers (3.5) and MUST play smart and not throw the ball away. This will be a great series.
Prediction: Cancun wins series 3-2
#5 Roswell vs. #4 Tokyo (Tokyo won and leads season series 3-0)
It's fitting that these 2 teams meet. Each team is a one man show. Roswell is led by John Greene and Tokyo is led by Lou Gonzales. Quick! Give me the name of one other starter on each team. Yeah, didn't think so. I think it's pretty safe to say that if Gonzales outperforms Greene or vice versa, their team is pretty much guaranteed a victory. No offense to John Greene, but Gonzales doesn't have too many bad games, and I don't see him getting outplayed or at least outplayed significantly. Greene will show up to play, there's no doubt about that, but his teammates will have to show up to have a chance at winning the series. I know I haven't gotten to the prediction yet, but I really don't like Roswell's chances. They're the worst free throw shooting team in the league and that really hurts in this league. I'm going to cut the crap and give you my prediction.
Prediction: Tokyo wins series blindfolded 3-0
Conference Semi-Finals
#4 Tokyo vs. #1 Colorado (Colorado won season series 4-0)
There won't be a repeat performance of last year's series where Gonzales dominated Boom-Boom. First off, Boom-Boom isn't in Colorado anymore. Anyway, Colorado got a lot better this season and Tokyo got a lot worse.
Prediction: Colorado wins series 4-1
#7 Montana vs. #6 Cancun (Cancun won season series 3-1)
Everyone loves seeing a couple of underdogs come playoff time. I really like this Cancun team and by this time, they will have a lot of confidence. Montana will have a chance to win every game.
Prediction: Cancun wins series 4-0
Conference Finals
#6 Cancun vs. #1 Colorado (Colorado won season series 3-1)
We all know the rule by now. The team with the best regular season NEVER makes it to the WBA Finals. But this is a much better Colorado team and Cancun underachieves. That's what we thought. Cancun haves even more confidence especially since they remember that they won the last game they played and also dominated Colorado last season.
Prediction: Cancun wins series 4-2
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Conference Quarterfinals
#8 Rochester vs. #1 Brooklyn (Brooklyn won season series 4-0)
Come playoff time, Brooklyn and upsets are spoken of quite frequently. In the first 2 seasons, they were upset by heavy underdogs. It wasn't until last year where they got over that hump, called the first round, and eventually won the WBA Championship. The question is: Which team are we going to see against Rochester? Are we going to see the champs or the chumps? Many owners around the league say chumps. Rochester is obviously a very talented team and is going to be a tough opponent. The key to this series will be rebounding. Rochester is average, at best, when it comes to rebounding. In order for them to beat Brooklyn, they can't be out-rebounded by more than 5. Anything more and it's over. I think talent-wise, Rochester is not that far off and is capable of beating Brooklyn. It would not be a shocker if Rochester won; they're that good. On a side note, this series might be marking the end of an era, so to speak. Rochester took a big step backwards this season and is heading into the off-season looking like they will not be able to re-sign their team MVP Horace Colbert. If they lose Colbert, I don't see this team being the threat it once was. As for Brooklyn, they have a couple of their players in their final year, namely AJ Schulz. If they lose him, Brooklyn will probably take a step backwards. Will they still be a great team? Probably, but not a powerhouse. They will probably fall into the middle of the pack in the East. Rebounding wins this series.
Prediction: Brooklyn wins series 3-1
#7 Albacete vs. #2 Gabon (Season series is tied 1-1)
This is a very interesting match-up. Both teams return to the playoffs after both being swept by Washington in the playoffs last season. Ironically, the winner of this series has an opportunity to avenge their loss in the next round against Washington. When we talk about Gabon, we have to start with their defense. In my opinion, this is the best defensive team in the league. Otto Hameleers and Leon Berthelson are among the league leaders in steals, and this team gives up less than 90 points a contest. Albacete, on the other hand, is pretty much average on both sides of the ball. However, they do possess 2 weapons in Bill Blackstone and Harry Jarvis that could overcome Gabon's defense. Blackstone will forever be known as the Brooklyn killer in the playoffs a couple of seasons ago. He didn't show up last year in the playoffs which hurt. Harry Jarvis will have to step up in the series. He has had a down year according to his standards and might've hurt his chances of getting a maximum contract in the off-season. Gabon has an amazing trio in Hameleers, Vinyard, and Bramson, but their play can be inconsistent at times. Teams have proven that this trio can be contained on the offensive side. When these guys are stopped, this Gabon team can be beaten. This series can go either way.
Prediction: Gabon wins series 3-2
#6 Baltimore vs. #3 Washington (Washington leads season series 2-1)
I don't like this match-up. Quite frankly, there's not a team in the entire Eastern Conference I'd feel confident against. Well okay, I forgot Virgin Islands. I thought I had this team's number. I didn't lose to them at all last season and I lost maybe twice in the 2 seasons before that. I won the first 2 meetings this season and then I get blown out by 20+ a couple of weeks ago. This proves to me that they can beat me. They have 2 great scorers in Jones and Chapman and a nice little sidekick in Stub Madison. They're a high-flying, run-and-gun team. They're also the most inconsistent team this league has ever seen. Not just this year, but every year. Just when you think they've gotten good, they lose a bunch in row. Then, when you think they stink, they go on a winning streak. I just hope that when they play me, their wave is coming down and not going up. For me, Parker Mason needs to hold onto the ball. I said at the beginning of the season that the fate of my team lies in the hands of Parker Mason. When he doesn't turn the ball over, my team is unbeatable, unless of course, Boom-Boom fouls out.
Prediction: Baltimore wins series 3-2
#5 Boston vs. #4 London (Boston leads season series 2-1)
This is one of those match-ups where you just flip a coin to see who wins. This is as good as it gets. These 2 teams play totally different styles. London features a high-powered offense with no defense. Boston is a smart team who doesn't make a lot of mistakes. Boston is like a salamander. They adapt to whatever style of play their opponent plays. If they play a team that likes to score, they think they can score more. If they play a team that likes to defend, they think they can defend better. This series will be high-scoring because Boston will let London control the tempo. The key for London will be to get Boston's big men, Dave Short and Bill Yeager, in foul trouble. These 2 guys are foul prone, but London doesn't draw fouls very well. The keys for Boston will be to, obviously, stay out of foul trouble, and to contain the triple scoring threat of Rose, Davidson, and LaMaitre. If these 3 can be contained, then Boston won't have a problem winning the series. If there's one thing that will hurt Boston's chances of going far into the playoffs, it is their point guard. It's amazing that Boston has played as well as they have with their leading assist man being forward, Mike Taylor. If Boston gets a point guard in the off-season, this can be a championship caliber team, but first they have to re-sign Yeager. Cory deserves some votes for Coach of the Year.
Prediction: London wins series 3-2
Conference Semi-Finals
#4 London vs. #1 Brooklyn (Season series tied 2-2)
The defending champs will have to earn this series win no matter who they play. London will pose a lot of problems for Brooklyn. This is a battle between a high-powered offense and a stifling defense. Whoever controls the tempo, wins the series.
Prediction: Brooklyn wins series 4-2
#6 Baltimore vs. #2 Gabon (Gabon won season series 3-1)
After a first round upset, can Baltimore keep the momentum going? History has shown that you can bet they'll be inconsistent. Winning 2 playoff series would be a little too consistent for me.
Prediction: Gabon wins series 4-0
Conference Finals
#2 Gabon vs. #1 Brooklyn (Gabon won season series 3-1)
Despite all this talk about how tough the Eastern Conference is the 2 best teams showed they are the best. This is one of those series like the Boston-London series where it's anyone's game. Can the defending champs repeat? This will be a low scoring series. This match-up kind of reminds me of all those Heat-Knicks playoff series. Remember, if you leave the bench, you get suspended and fined!
Prediction: Gabon wins series 4-3
WBA Finals
Cancun vs. Gabon (Gabon won season series 2-0)
Who would've thought that a 6 seed would be playing in the Finals? Cancun has Fernie magic written all over them. Gabon doesn't want to be like London in Season 1. The key for Gabon is to take an early lead in the series to stop Cancun's momentum. I'm sorry to say, but the once laughing stock of the WBA, has a legit shot at winning. What's scary is that they have enough cap room to sign Horace Colbert in the off-season. If this team got him, the league is in trouble. What happens after next season, though, is up in the air.
Prediction: Gabon wins WBA Championship 4-1
December 10th, 2001
The Marty Williams Watch Continues
by Zagrieb Zano
The ongoiing saga of Marty Williams continues, and he didn't disappoint the
fans again.
Marty continues to dazzle the fans with his keen shooting ability shooting
from nearly every spot on the court. Shooting a terrific 33% from the field
on 4 of 12 shooting. He grabbed a respectable 9 boards, 1 block , 2 steals
that were accompanied by 4 turnovers. Despite his crucial 8 points in 40
minutes, it wasn't enough to help overcome Carolina.
Williams primarily was matched up against Charlie Griffen who suffered
greatly from Marty's stellar defense. He shot 8 of 13 from the field for
a pathetic 61%. He managed just 16 points, 4 blocks, 12 rebounds with no
turnovers.
Marty followed this performance up against a very good London team, that is
known for its high scoring and lack of defense approach.
He was finally able to outscore his opposing center in Myron Baran, who one
could hardly be considered a top 20 center. Marty was finally able to shoot
above 40% for the first time, netting 19 points and 4 rebounds in only 34
minutes due to fouling out, thus leaving the team stranded when it really
counted. While his scoring did help, one of the bragging points about Marty
has been his ability to defend. Unfortunatly, his "great" defensive ability
was displayed as his man Myron experienced that defense by shooting 63%
from the field for 14 points in just 33 Minutes.
To think that Midland lost by only 2 to the high scoring London team, i'm
sure the coach was glad he had his newly aquired "big time" center with his
5.5 Million dollar player sitting on the bench with his 6 fouls causing him
to miss the 4th quarter completely. Though perhaps that was a blessing in
disquise, as Midland was able to outscore London by 8 points. So perhaps
Marty is best suited on the bench?
Midland then visited Winfred, who was hoping to win that elusive 7 games. I
wasn't aware that Winifred even had a Center, but apparently they do in
fact. The forgetable Clarence Coffman. Yeah I know, I didn't know who he
was either. Marty had a good game, but everybody has a good or superb game
against the rebels.Midland blew Winifred away as most teams do. Perhaps
what is most disturbing is Coffman who only averages 10 points a game, on a
mere 41% shooting percentage. However with Marty guarding him, he drained
18 points shooting 60% of the field.
It took 6 games, but finally Marty proved to be worth a hill of beans, in
their victory over Tokyo. He played well against a top center in Lou
gonzales, He scored 18 points on 44% shooting, which is up from his last
few games, he grabbed a bunch of rebounds, and it was about time. Lou did
hand 26 points on him on a dismal 63% shooting from the field.
Midland has gone 3-3 since Marty has joined the club. The only playoff team
he has beaten was against Tokyo, and is the only game thus far that Marty
made a positive difference. The previous 5 games, he has either hurt the
team, or played well when they were beating up on Winfred by 20+ points. He
has yet to hold somebody to shoot less then 60%, and his lack of dominating
presence on the boards should worry some. Prior to his one good game
against a good center <Lou Gonzales> he has averaged 8.8 boards a game,
thanks to a 13 board effort against Winifred. He has shot in the low 30%
range, which is very disturbing. We are still waiting to see if he can
actually outplay an opposing center, one would think that for a man being
paid 5.5Mil and 4 draft picks along with some money, he would be dominating
opposing centers... Perhaps he might outplay a center this season.. if so,
you can be sure we will report this freak occurance
Has Marty proven his worth?
December 7th, 2001
Fame and Pain
By Ron Chambers
As a team they may be invincible but individually they are still vulnerable. Heiko Van Brandt has become a major part of Colorado's success. But, he is still young and young men can at times be wreckless. This afternoon he was in a minor accident car accident that was caused by as vitnesses say "Him screwing around. He was apparently racing his convertable Mercedes and then slamming on his brakes and making his car spin on the wet pavement of the empty arena parking lot. At one point he lost control and crashed into the governors Limo who was there to congradulate the Pioneers for their increadible winning streak.
Brooklyn's Al Zarra is learning what it is like to be a star. Not only in the WBA but also in New York City. He's become a bit of a fan favorite. Part of the reason for this is that he doesn't make the big money that other WBA stars do. Because of that and the realization that an injury could end his good fortune at any minute, he, unlike most WBA stars, has been living modestly and saving most of his money. He often has been seen ducking his head (literally) into the subways or standing on the street corner catching a cab. THe fans really love getting a glimps of him in every day life, something that doesn't happen with players like Shane Strom, AJ Schulz and Joe Siebert. Unfortunately, he has gotten a little more attention for a fan than he would like. I'll let Zarra's own word expalin it, " A couple of weeks ago I was on the Q train heading home after practice and there was this guy in a long trench coat with his finger nail's painted black. He was talking to this girl about him being a Vampire. I never ran into anybody like that before. Not in Africa and not in the boarding school in Vermont that I went to for High School or in college. I never even saw it last year in New York. So I was currious and asked him about it. He seemed nice but some of the stuff they do is really weird. Since them I have seen him several times. I've even seen him in my neighbor hood on my steet. I never saw him before that. It's really freaking me out." Police have increased the potrols in the area but since september 11th they are really over burdened and have said that with out an actual crime there is little they can do. Wes Ford has said, "I'm sure Al will be fine what concerns me is that I've started to notice his stress level to affect his play. We need him to play well against the better teams in the league...I can't do it all myself."
December 6th, 2001
SLC in Baby Blue
The Salt Lake City Fanatics have reported that Coach Brad Bangerter and his wife have added another child to their family. A bouncing baby boy. Although a name hasn't been decided, Coach Bangerter indicated he was trying to convince his wife to go with the name of Camron Tyler Cordell Bangerter. His wife isn't so sure. Coach Bangerter will fly down to Roswell to in time to coach their game. And you can expect his team will do everything they can to win the game for him. Mother and Baby are doing fine.
Zagrieb Zano
November 25th, 2001
Suspension Time
Steve Foreman may not have been playing at the All star game but he still managed to get suspended. He has reportedly been in a really bad mood since being traded. When a "fan" heckled him about it he found a chair flying his way. Steve will miss 3 games.
November 25th, 2001
All-Star Game
Western All-Sta 32 33 36 30 11 - 142 (Wayne Taylor 25)
Eastern All-Sta 33 32 38 28 8 - 139 (Joe Jones 17)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Western All-Stars FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steve Peterson 25 3- 9 2- 3 0- 3 2- 3 14 3 0 0 1 8
Buck Jones 24 5- 9 0- 0 0- 1 0- 2 8 1 0 1 0 10
Kevon Duke 25 8-15 0- 0 2- 4 0- 3 2 2 0 1 0 18
George Foster 24 1- 2 0- 0 0- 0 2- 3 5 5 0 2 2 2
John Greene 24 3- 5 2- 2 0- 1 1- 3 4 2 0 1 2 8
Wayne Taylor 25 11-20 2- 2 1- 2 0- 1 0 1 1 0 1 25
Tom Perkins 19 2- 8 0- 0 0- 0 1- 1 3 4 1 0 2 4
Eddie Jacobson 23 4-10 0- 0 0- 0 1- 2 1 3 0 1 0 8
Scott Nicholson 14 5- 7 0- 0 0- 0 1- 1 3 3 0 0 2 10
Lou Gonzales 23 8-10 4- 4 0- 0 2- 3 4 1 2 0 2 20
Jim McCarthy 15 5- 6 2- 2 0- 0 0- 6 0 3 0 1 0 12
Kent Mercer 23 8- 8 0- 0 1- 1 0- 6 2 0 1 1 0 17
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Totals 265 63-109 12-13 4-12 10-34 46 28 5 8 12 142
57.8% 92.3% 33.3%
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Coached by:
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Eastern All-Stars FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kelvin Davidson 23 4- 8 1- 2 0- 0 1- 2 11 2 1 2 1 9
Chuck Henderson 22 4- 5 0- 0 1- 1 0- 2 9 1 0 1 3 9
Frank Rose 22 2- 7 2- 4 0- 1 0- 2 2 0 0 1 0 6
Joe Jones 23 6-12 5- 6 0- 1 3- 5 2 2 0 1 0 17
Dave Williams 20 3- 6 3- 6 0- 1 0- 2 1 6 0 3 0 9
Shane Strom 23 7-10 1- 1 0- 0 0- 6 4 1 0 0 2 15
Arron Black 22 3- 6 8- 8 2- 3 1- 2 1 2 0 1 0 16
Dave Short 23 5-11 3- 4 0- 0 1- 2 0 1 0 0 0 13
John Davis 20 2- 5 0- 0 0- 0 1- 4 2 0 0 1 0 4
Bill Yeager 23 7-10 0- 0 0- 0 2- 4 1 1 3 1 0 14
Boom-Boom Casey 21 4- 7 2- 2 0- 0 2- 6 3 3 2 0 1 10
Jaxon McCall 21 7-12 2- 2 1- 2 0- 3 2 0 0 1 0 17
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 265 54- 99 27-35 4- 9 11-40 38 19 6 12 7 139
54.5% 77.1% 44.4%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Lead Changes: 9 Ties: 22
Largest Leads: Western All-Stars -- 5
Eastern All-Stars -- 8
Injuries: Western All-Stars Eastern All-Stars
Buck Jones 1
==============================================================================
Positions Quarters
Western All-Stars PG SG SF PF C 1 2 3 4 OT
----------------------------------------------------------------
Steve Peterson 25 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 5 2
Buck Jones 24 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 4 2
Kevon Duke 2 23 0 0 0 6 6 6 5 2
George Foster 2 21 0 0 0 6 6 6 4 2
John Greene 0 4 20 0 0 6 6 6 5 1
Wayne Taylor 0 4 21 0 0 6 6 6 4 2
Tom Perkins 0 0 4 14 0 4 3 3 7 2
Eddie Jacobson 0 0 0 23 0 3 5 6 6 3
Scott Nicholson 0 0 4 0 10 3 4 3 3 2
Lou Gonzales 0 0 0 0 23 4 4 6 7 3
Jim McCarthy 0 0 0 0 15 4 4 4 2 2
Kent Mercer 0 0 4 15 4 4 4 4 8 3
Positions Quarters
Eastern All-Stars PG SG SF PF C 1 2 3 4 OT
----------------------------------------------------------------
Kelvin Davidson 23 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 2 3
Chuck Henderson 22 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 2 2
Frank Rose 5 14 3 0 0 5 5 4 7 2
Joe Jones 2 22 0 0 0 5 4 5 6 3
Dave Williams 1 17 3 0 0 5 4 5 6 0
Shane Strom 0 0 23 0 0 4 6 4 6 3
Arron Black 0 1 3 19 0 4 5 6 5 2
Dave Short 0 0 0 18 6 5 5 5 6 3
John Davis 0 0 0 17 3 5 4 6 5 0
Bill Yeager 0 0 0 0 23 5 4 6 5 3
Boom-Boom Casey 0 0 0 0 21 5 5 5 4 2
Jaxon McCall 0 0 21 0 0 5 5 4 6 2
================================================================
MVP- Wayne Taylor
November 25th, 2001
The Rookie Game
Western Rookies 22 18 23 18 - 81 (Jarrod Edwards 18)
Eastern Rookies 22 30 40 28 - 120 (Arron Black 26)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Western Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Odell Bell 12 2- 4 0- 0 0- 0 0- 1 0 2 0 0 0 4
Alvin Simpson 27 2-10 0- 0 1- 2 0- 2 7 4 0 0 4 5
Everett Kubey 25 2- 8 3- 4 0- 2 0- 2 2 0 1 6 0 7
Ossie Gordon 20 3- 4 0- 0 0- 0 0- 4 1 2 1 1 0 6
Arnold Eaton 9 2- 2 0- 0 0- 0 0- 1 0 0 1 0 0 4
Sam Plummer 26 2- 7 0- 0 0- 1 0- 1 5 1 0 0 1 4
Keith Chambers 15 1- 1 0- 0 0- 0 2- 5 1 0 0 1 0 2
Webster Hewlett 26 6-11 0- 0 0- 0 0- 2 0 2 1 0 2 12
Dimitry Kolosov 26 4-11 2- 2 1- 3 0- 2 0 2 1 2 1 11
Jarrod Edwards 26 9-17 0- 0 0- 1 1- 7 7 0 0 6 2 18
Tom Baehr 27 4- 8 0- 0 0- 0 0- 2 6 0 0 1 1 8
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 37- 83 5- 6 2- 9 3-29 29 13 5 17 11 81
44.6% 83.3% 22.2%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Technical Fouls: Sam Plummer 1
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eastern Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jack Berger 21 4-11 0- 0 0- 2 3- 7 1 4 0 3 2 8
Ron Rubinov 21 5- 8 0- 0 0- 2 3- 3 3 2 0 1 2 10
Barry Daskalothana 12 1- 3 0- 0 0- 0 1- 3 2 0 1 0 0 2
Myron Baran 20 1- 3 0- 0 0- 0 2- 8 0 2 0 0 4 2
Jaxon McCall 21 7-13 0- 0 2- 5 1- 4 2 2 0 2 1 16
Gannon Moore 30 2- 5 0- 0 0- 1 0- 4 13 0 0 0 1 4
Justin Krueger 30 4- 8 0- 0 0- 0 0- 5 8 1 1 2 2 8
Luke Benner 21 9-17 0- 0 1- 3 1- 3 0 1 1 0 0 19
Floyd Acevedo 22 7- 9 1- 1 0- 0 1- 1 2 0 2 2 0 15
Travis Young 20 5- 7 0- 0 0- 0 1- 4 0 0 0 1 3 10
Arron Black 21 11-16 0- 0 4- 5 3-12 2 2 2 1 0 26
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 56-100 1- 1 7-18 16-54 33 14 7 12 15 120
56.0% 100.0% 38.9%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Lead Changes: 3 Ties: 3
Largest Leads: Western Rookies -- 4
Eastern Rookies -- 41
Positions Quarters
Western Rookies PG SG SF PF C 1 2 3 4 OT
----------------------------------------------------------------
Odell Bell 0 0 0 4 8 3 1 0 8 0
Alvin Simpson 25 2 0 0 0 6 8 9 4 0
Everett Kubey 0 0 5 20 0 7 5 5 9 0
Ossie Gordon 0 0 0 0 20 3 3 7 8 0
Arnold Eaton 0 0 0 0 9 4 4 0 0 0
Sam Plummer 0 4 21 0 0 7 7 7 4 0
Keith Chambers 0 0 0 4 11 2 4 5 4 0
Webster Hewlett 6 6 15 0 0 7 7 6 6 0
Dimitry Kolosov 0 0 7 19 0 5 7 7 7 0
Jarrod Edwards 9 17 0 0 0 8 7 7 5 0
Tom Baehr 8 18 0 0 0 8 7 7 5 0
Positions Quarters
Eastern Rookies PG SG SF PF C 1 2 3 4 OT
----------------------------------------------------------------
Jack Berger 2 0 1 18 0 4 4 5 8 0
Ron Rubinov 0 0 0 20 0 4 4 7 6 0
Barry Daskalothanasi 1 0 0 0 11 4 4 3 1 0
Myron Baran 0 0 0 0 20 4 4 5 6 0
Jaxon McCall 0 11 10 0 0 4 4 5 7 0
Gannon Moore 10 20 0 0 0 12 10 7 1 0
Justin Krueger 30 0 0 0 0 12 10 5 4 0
Luke Benner 1 1 20 0 0 4 5 7 6 0
Floyd Acevedo 1 13 8 0 0 4 5 7 6 0
Travis Young 0 0 0 3 17 4 5 4 7 0
Arron Black 2 3 9 7 0 4 5 5 8 0
================================================================
MVP- Arron Black
November 25th, 2001
3-point Contast Results
Round 1
Ted Groth(BEM) 10000 00002 00010 10000 0000- = 5
Garth Donohue(NEB) 11112 11002 01102 11012 11112 = 25
Greg Lynn(LON) 11002 11100 11012 11112 01110 = 21
Charlie Reynolds(SLC) 01100 00010 11100 11100 ----- = 9
Dimitry Kolosov(MID) 11102 10102 01000 00112 0111- = 17
Charlie Young(COL) 01112 11112 11112 10012 11110 = 25
Bucky McCarty(VI) 00110 11102 00012 11012 11102 = 20
Luke Benner(CAR) 11112 10102 11110 01102 1101- = 21
Leon Berthelson(GAB) 11012 11102 01012 10002 00002 = 19
Herman Burke(CAN) 00112 11102 01010 11112 11012 = 22
Jeff Bailey(NY) 010012 10102 00002 11012 01102 = 19
Pete Small(MON) 01102 11102 10100 11102 ----- = 16
Justin Krueger(BRK) 10100 11100 11100 01100 1100- = 12
Dave Williams(ROC) 00112 11112 01100 01012 01112 = 21
Dave Short(BOS) 11010 10110 00100 01100 ----- = 9
Jaxon McCall(VAR) 00102 01102 01012 10112 00110 = 18
Shawn Newman(MAI) 00012 11112 00112 01112 11--- = 20
Bill Andrews(ALB) 10112 11112 11112 01112 11110= 26
Joe Jones(BAL) 11010 01102 11100 00002 11010 = 15
Jalen Bell(WAS) 10112 10010 11110 11010 10112 = 19
Roy Robinson(CHA) 11012 10000 00002 00100 00100 = 10
George Foster(SYD) 01100 01112 10100 01002 1111- = 16
Ty Locke(ADE) 00112 11102 10012 00100 11010 = 17
Jaime Moore(ROS) 00102 10110 01110 10112 01--- = 15
Tom Baehr(TOK) 01010 00102 00112 00112 01--- = 14
Rich Johnson(CIN) 11110 11102 00112 01110 01112 = 21
George Sewell(WIN) 01012 01100 11110 11102 11102 = 20
J.D. Yetman(N.O.) 10102 11012 01112 11010 10110 = 20
Round 2
Garth Donohue(NEB) 01012 11012 01112 11102 11112 = 25
Greg Lynn(LON) 11112 10110 01112 11102 11100 = 22
Charlie Young(COL) 10100 11102 01010 10112 01--- = 15
Luke Benner(CAR) 10112 11002 10112 11010 1110- = 20
Herman Burke(CAN) 11012 11102 10110 11112 10010 = 21
Dave Williams(ROC) 11110 10110 11112 11102 00010 = 19
Bill Andrews(ALB) 11112 11102 11112 10110 11112 = 26
Rich Johnson(CIN) 01100 11000 10010 00000 0100- = 7
Round 3
Garth Donohue(NEB) 11110 11102 11112 01012 11112 = 25
Greg Lynn(LON) 11102 10002 11112 11112 11012 = 25
Herman Burke(CAN) 11012 11112 11100 11110 10010 = 20
Bill Andrews(ALB) 00112 11010 01110 11012 11102 = 19
Finals
Garth Donohue(NEB) 11010 01112 11110 10112 11012 = 22
Greg Lynn(LON) 11012 11110 00112 01012 11112 = 23
November 24th, 2001
All-Stars Announced
West (*Starters)
*Steve Peterson
Buck Jones
* Kevon Duke
George Foster
*John Greene
Wayne Taylor
*Eddie Jacobson
Tom Perkins
Scott Nicholson
*Lou Gonzales
Jim McCarthy
Kent Mercer
East
*Kelvin Davidson
Chuck Henderson
*Dave Williiams
Joe Jones
Frank Rose
*Shane Strom
Aaron Black
Jaxon McCall
*Dave Short
John Davis
*Bill Yeager
Boom-Boom Casey
Western Rookies
Odell Bell
Alvin Simpson
J.J. Jordan
Everett Kubey
Ossie Gordon
Arnold Eaton
Sam Plummer
Keith Chambers
Webster Hewlett
Dimitry Kolosov
Jarrod Edwards
Tom Baehr
Eastern Rookies
Jack Berger
Ron Rubinov
Barry Daskalathonasis
Myron Baron
Jaxon McCall
Gannon Moore
Justin Krueger
Luke Benner
Floyd Acevedo
Travis Young
Aaron Black
Jalen Bell
November 15th, 2001
THE COLORADO BENCH:"We could have been a contender"
By Liz Lester
In this article I want to turn the attention of the baskettball world to those guys that never get enough credit...the bench. In this case, the Colorado Bench, which may be the best bench ever. I will give some attention to several players on the Colorado Bench, who, despite getting reasonable minutes in Colorado, still may be overlooked!
Probably the best known player onteh Colorado Bench, is all star John Riddle. This classy Veteran is vital in the Colorado team, as his experience will groom the young Colorado C’s into even bigger stars then they are now. Riddle is still all star Material, althogh his lack of minutes will probably see him left out this year....but then there is 6th man of the year :)
Peter Merrit, is another candidate for 6th man of the year... Only 7th in total minutes ont he Colorado team, he’s 4th in scoring. Each minute he’s on the court, he performs on the highest level. When his contract ends in two years, he will be no doubt one of the most sought after FA’s.
John Morgenland also sees plenty of minutes. And while his impact is less then that of Merrit, it still is impressive. Morgenland shows all the signs of a future all star, and may well be the steal of last years draft.
Charlie Young once was a highly touted Rookie. When he didn’t perform as people hyped, he was discarded by the basketball community. Colorado Coach Marc Hameleers was not among the nay sayers, and contracted this still young man. And his trust was justified by the solid play this youngster has shown this year. In the future of this young fellow there will be lots of big game performances, and and all star appearnace seems not too far fetched
Glen Chandler, this young Center will be probably be part of the Colorado franchise for a long time, if we are to believe coach Hameleers. Hameleers touts this youngster as a huge defensive talent, which just needs a few years to come to fruition. In the games he played, he showed that Hameleers is not that wrong in that assesment
Eliseo Jones is the last player that joined this Colorado team. Jones has proven to be a solid scorer when needed, and his FG% is pretty decent. Jones is a good allround player, who’s offensive attitude is praised by his coach.
Ron Ripple is the last of the Colorado Bench highlighted here. He gets few minutes behind the great Steve peterson, but in those he shows he is a quality replacement. His stealing ability and rebounding are great assests, although his passing still has room for improvement
With all this quality on the bench, one wonders how they would perform when a team on their own...A possible lineup
PG: Ripple, Young
SG: Merrit, Young
SF: Morgenland, Merrit
PF: Jones, Morgenland
C: Riddle, Chandler, Jones
This team would probably make the playoffs!!! And it consists only of the Colorado Bench! This shows the imminse depth the Colorado squad has, and also the quality of it’s managment...Coloaro may lose a little of it’s strength in the future, when contracts expire. But there will be enough left....and added in the comming drafts. Colorado will probably have a great bench for a great time.
November 10th, 2001
Stoned
Doc Slamon will miss the next six games after passing a Kidney Stone.
November 10th, 2001
Temper Temper
Frank Schnieder of The Chacarita Buriers was suspeded for 3 games today after their game with Boston in which he through a chair at mocking fans.
November 10th, 2001
Tragedy on The Islands
It has been a long season for Virgin Islands and it just got a little longer. Doctors have reported that Magic Toby has suffered from a heart attack. The team in a statement said, "This is a hard time for Magic and his family we are giving them or full support but they will be unavailable to the press."
November 10th, 2001
Problems for the Sun Warriors
By Ron Chambers
Despite the success that Nebraska has had this year it has been and will continue to be a rough season. They began the season with Rookie Craig King getting injured in a boating accident. And now another tragedy.
Rookie J.J. Jordan was the number five pick in the last draft and has been a key player for the Sun Warriors. Unfortunately, after Nebraska's loss to Montana today J.J. went to a party at that Party he got drunk and fell of a second floor balcony shattering his right hip. Re has reconstructive surgery scheduled for tomorrow and will miss the rest of the season but may be able to return next year.
September 18th, 2001
The Chambers Predictions
By Ron Chambers
Here are the WBA predictions according to GSPN head writer Ron Chambers. The teams with astricks are those predicted to make the play-offs.
Pacific
1)* Colorado- Like last year they are the best team in the league.
2)* Nebraska
3)* Tokyo
4)* Roswell
5)* Montana
6) Sydney
7) Adelaide
Mid-West
1)* Cincinnati- This team is the only team in the Mid-Atlantic who can play with
the big boys.
2)* Cancun
3)* New Orleans
4) Salt Lake City
5) Midland
6) Bermuda
7) Winifred
Atlantic
1)* Albacete- Teams 1-3 in this division are really close.
2)* Boston
3)* Rochester- They are a power forward away from being one of the top 4
teams in the league
4)* Gabon
5) London
6) Maine
7) Varese- This is a little misleading because Varese would easily make the
play-offs in the West.
Mid-Atlantic
1)* Brooklyn- The theory that Brooklyn is not an elite team this year is WORNG!
2)* Washington- These two teams are about as close as two teams can be.
Their order may flop but they are the second and third best
teams in the league.
3)* Baltimore
4)* New York
5) Virgin Islands- Plenty of tallent but over loaded at forward.
6) Carolina
7) Chacarita
WBA
1) Colorado
2) Brooklyn
3) Washington
4) Albacete
5) Cincinnati
6) Boston
7) Nebraska
8) Rochester
9) Baltimore
10) Gabon
11) New York
12) London
13) Virgin Islands
14) Cancun
15) Maine
16) Tokyo
17) Varese
18) Carolina
19) Roswell
20) Montana
21) New Orleans
22) Salt Lake City
23) Chacarita
24) Sydney
25) Midland
26) Adelaide
27) Bermuda
28) Winifred
September 7th, 2001
V.I. Update
Following a very controversial week... Virgin Islands is ready to lock up
its LAST trade of the season... VI recently acquired Jamie Corris and
Magic Toby from Chacarita... This trade was the beginning of a heated
discussion in the WBA... After wek long discussons, Commisoner Rondall
R. decided to let the trade go thru...The next trade which is the last
trade makes this a better team... Frank Fitzgearld,a great young center
who has bounced around for the past two weeks, will end up in the Virgin
Islands... This completes VI's team... VI wanted to make sure to cover
their behinds for next season when some of it core players will be free
agents... VI gets rid of Fred Davis and Frank Moore and London's season
5-2nd pick, in replace for Frank Fitzgearld and Jim Walsh(who will be
released). VI now has dept in all positions except Shooting Guard, but
that isn't a big problem...
The preseason begin yesterday against Chacarita, and VI didn't look good
at all... Damon Trout was a no show in this game, and is believed to be
the only reason Chacarita won so lobsided... 110-88... VI was led by
Magic Toby's 24pts and John Felton's 14 rebounds... VI hopes to
improve... They sent in their proper lineups and all, and should be ready
for their next opponents...
Starting Five
PG- Damon Trount
SG- Ed Bryant
SF- Johnny Brose
PF- Magic Toby
C- Frank Fitzgearld
Next Five
PG- Mike Reardon
SG- Jamie Corris
SF- John Felton
PF- Bill Lopez
C- KeyShawn Eosso
and the rest can forget about playing....
September 3rd, 2001
Indiana moves to Salt Lake City.
During the off season, the Indiana Shakers were sold to Bangerter Corp for a reported 116 million. Part of the deal, would allow the team to be moved to Salt Lake City, Utah; location of Bangerter Corp's home office. With the approval of the league the new team will be known as the Salt Lake City Fanatics.
The Fanatics will play at the Bangerter Coliseum, which features numerous luxury boxes and seats 25,011 screaming fans. Owner Brad Bangerter has been willing to do what it takes to get fans in the seats. Indiana coming off its 3rd straight dismal season winning just 29 games will have a new look to their team other then fancy uniforms. Bangerter was overheard saying, "There are only a couple people that will be on this team from last year by the time I get done with them."
Salt Lake has a bright future that began with the annual draft. Having the #10 overall pick, Bangerter felt he would have a excellent opportunity to get one specific player. Those close to the team had indicated that Bangerter planned on drafting 6'11" center Odell Bell from North Eastern Moscow State University. However, when Bell was drafted #7, Bangerter was visibly upset. As the #10 pick around, Jack Berger a solid PF from Williams University was selected. On draft day, Bangerter was quoted as saying, "While I expected to get Odell, I also know a solid player when I see one. I spoke with Jack's coach Dave Williams, and he gave me the low down on Jack. He told me Jack is a solid worker and is very coach-able. He can score, play defense and rebound." Salt Lake also grabbed the "steal" of the draft with their #40 pick grabbing Arnold Eaton, who many had predicted to be a top 15 draft pick. Arnold has had some injury problems, which is the likely cause for a slip in stock, but he is a great all-around player.
During the free agency period, it was very clear that Salt Lake would be going for big name agents and was not afraid to spend a little extra to get whom they wanted. The first big name and a shocker to many was Bucky McCarty. McCarty was the number 3 scorer in the league last year, and surprised many when he opted to leave Maine and head west. Perhaps another surprise to many new Salt Lake fans were the departures of the teams leading scorer Mike Begely and Jim Donnely. Bangerter has admitted that losing Donnely was a mistake on his part, but Begely was expendable. Salt Lake also signed Pat McDaniel a very good PG to a 6-year deal worth 36 million. Gomer Cummings who found little playing time last season inked a 5-year deal worth 10 million. Tony Gaston also was looking to come to Salt Lake, but the league blocked several trade attempts that would allow Gaston's salary to fit within the cap. Billy Elkington a undrafted rookie sign a 3 year 2 million offer.
Salt Lake then began working on filling some holes with trades. South Carolina expressed a great amount of interest in getting Pat McDaniel back. When SC offered SF sensation, Camron Diaz, and a pair of second round picks, it just made sense. Then Roswell and New York came knocking both wanting to get Billy Elkington. Both teams seemed desperate and were willing to make some significant offers. Both teams went into a bidding war for Billy, and eventually Roswell made an offer that simply could not be refused. Salt Lake would receive Clifton Banko, 2 Million cash for the current season, and 1 million for the next season as well a future Nebraska 1st round pick. This was all in exchange for Billy Elkington. The third significant trade was with New York who was looking to get rid of disgruntled Frank Fitzgerald and his 5 million a year contract. Salt Lake gave up a future 2nd round pick and Charlie Jones, who was now expendable due to the signing of Cummings and McCarty. Overall, the staff for Salt Lake is pleased with their offseason acquisitions as well as their draft.
Will Salt Lake make the playoffs? That is a good question, and they are going to need to get some team chemistry as they play in the tough Midwest Division including powerhouse teams such as Colorado, Midland and Cancun. Bangerter certainly believes they will have a solid chance at picking up one of the lower seeds. This team will have a run-n-gun style hoping score a ton of points with out having to rely on much defense. And they have the ability to light up the scoreboard.
Projected Starting Five
Point Guard
Gomer Cummings - his last season stats are not indicative of abilities. He found little playing time but has been very impressive during training camp.
Shooting Guard
Bucky McCarty - averaged 27 points a game, while this may be inflated a little bit due to being the only scorer for Maine, he should be more difficult to defend as teams won't be able to double team him as much. He will also play some minutes at the point.
Small Forward
Camron Diaz - with his 17 points and 7 boards a game, he will flourish with some other scorers around him. He may get some time at the PF spot if either Banko or Berger get injured.
Power Forward
Clifton Banko - averaged 22 points a game and 5 rebounds. He needs work on getting rebounds, but on the offensive end, he will face a lot of 1 on 1 defense, which will benefit him.
Center
Frank Fitzgerald - NY's leading scorer at 18.9 points per game, he will play some valuable minutes assuming he doesn't foul too much.
Significant Backups
Jack Berger - Playing behind Clifton at the PF spot, he is a better rebounder and overall defender. He has a solid chance to make the Rookie team during the all-star break.
Arnold Eaton - He will play quite a bit at center, especially if he can stay healthy. He will get his opportunities to show off his skills.
Steve Foreman - 6 rebounds and 12 points a game is solid production for a backup. Though these numbers should drop a little bit, as he will probably be limited to 15 minutes a game.
Overall Indiana is a new team, which can score points; both Bucky and Frank were the leading scorers on their previous teams. Banko and Diaz were the #2 scorers on their previous teams. The only real question with this much offensive power is will there be enough basketballs to satisfy everybody.
If Salt Lake can win at least 41 games, then it will be considered a successful season.
August 30th, 2001
ST. Thomas, Jamaica,
As we all know Virgin Islands use to be Myrtle Beach, and some of the same
old trumoils have began... On the second day of practice, Coach Williams
was so POed by his second stream, he may all of them go home for the day,
and handed out some fines and suspensions... Here is a list of the
players that got suspened for the opening Preseason game and why?
1. Tony Marshall suspended for one game, for showing off... He apparently
got a break away attempted and missed a 360 dunk... Coach Wms comments
that we don't need hot doggers on this team... He broke the defense of
KeyShawn Eosso, who later said that he decided to be easy on the scrub..
2. Nick Mann suspended for one game, apperently he thinks he should be put
on the second team b/c he has been with the team longer and can handle
running the PG position better then Mike Reardon... He lashed out at Coach
Wms, saying that he wanted to be trade. Well we see Coach Wms response
and he also added, that we may be trade to Chacarita very soon...
3. Ed Atkinson suspended for one game... This really hurts the youngster,
he is the only rookie on this team, and he has a bad attitude... He is a
very good person, but his temper flared up as he was humilated by Damon
Trout's between the leg, behind the back, CROSSOVER, and then DUNKED on by
Trout as he banged it off the backboard to himself... Coach Wms did have
a brief meeting with Trout about the hotdogging, but when someone says
that your Momma wears Brown and Yellow pookadot panties, you need to
susend them....
Also VI is having a good traing session, Bill Lopez is seeming to find
that Health and Stamina he needs to play at least 20 to 30 mins of the
game at a peak performance...
The Starting Five has been announced...
PG- Damon Trout(he beat out Mike Reardon today, by hussle and solid
defense)
SG- Ed Bryant(didn't really have too much competition, may believe this
should have been Reardon's spot, but he would then be out of position, and
VI would be struggling at the point, when it goes to its bench.)
SF- Johnny Brose(his age and rebounding ability proved to be better than
Frank Moore and Roy Robinson(last years team MVP), But Robinson adds
strength to the second team)
PF- Bill Lopez(has showed his teammates that he can hang for at least
25mins of a game, Felton had this position at bay, but Lopez seems to be a
better scorer, and Felton would fit good in the PF positoion at PF or
Center)
C- Who else, KeyShawn Eosso(this is what I am talking about, he is an
underachiever, but he has no competition at the Center position... Tony
Marshall did break his ankles, but the last laugh belongs to Eosso...)
There is another Trade in the making for VI... Um does the term ShowTime
in the Virgin Islands mean anything? Heck NO, not Magic Johnson...
August 29th,2001
Boating Accident puts WBA Teams in a Bind
Washington's Craig King and Sydney's Tom Hoover were Vacationing together in the Florida Keys when they crashed their Wave Runners into each other. Both Players are expected to miss the entire preseason and a good portion of the first half of the regular season.
August 29th, 2001
He Ain't Singing the Blues
He's no Johnny Cash but Bill Cash thinks he has talent. Bill has involved in Music all his life and has decided to try his hand at a music career now that his Basketball career is winding down. "I just felt this was the right time after winning the championship." Brooklyn has declined allegations that they had no interest in spending any more cash on Cash.
August 29th, 2001
Dreams Fade
Every season there are a hand full of players who start out with WBA hopes but decide that they would be better served by dropping Basketball and making use of their degrees. Here is the newest list of former players to realize this:
Adrian Hacket
Al Walton
Barry Reese
Bob Hopkins
Carlo Williamson
Charlie Stephens
Clint Nivick
Cory Harrell
David King
Don Gilbert
Don Knight
Dustin Usher
Ed Pepper
Ed Weis
Eddie Barker
Eddie Hartley
Garry Mesaros
Gary Shay
Glen Creed
Harry Hancock
Jack Baker
Jamie Fields
Jeff Jackson
Jim Robinson
Joe Brown
Tom Peters
Vic Begley
August 27th, 2001
Big Dealings Out West!!!
By Maury Brandfeld
Big news tonight coming out of the Western Conference offices. It seems a rather large 3-way deal was completed earlier tonight with major implications not only on the Western Conference, but involving a possible title contender.
The Nebraska Sun Warriors acquired PG Ed Kane from Roswell along with Eliseo Jones and 2 million dollars for next season. This gives the Warriors the premier PG that somany of their critics have been hounding them about not having. Nebraska also acquired Hick Hiller and Indiana's season 8 2nd in the deal from New York.
In return, Roswell received C TJ McFarland who will fill a vital role in the teams plans for the season. Roswell was in major need of a C and went out and got their man. They also picked up Nebraska's season 6 and 8 1st Round picks.
For their part New York took home PG Drake Bachemann who Nebraska was forced to move as a salary cap issue.
New York GM Steven Goodstadt was quoted as saying "We got a good PG at a low price--we accept". The low price refers to what he had to trade away--not to Bachemann's contract which is 6 million this season.
Nebraska GM Brandon Morfeld said that "Ed Kane is one of the leagues best PG's and is a welcome addition to this team. Now we have a guy who can wreak havoc passing to Taylor and Schulz this season. McFarland's loss will hurt us on the boards and defensively, but we think Jim Wilson and possibly even JJ Jordan can step into the Center role."
Nebraska will look at the following "preseason" lineup:
PG--Ed Kane
SG--Rick Schulz
SF--Wayne Taylor
PF--Donavan Jones/JJ Jordan
C---JJ Jordan/Jim Wilson
August 26th, 2001
Team Preview: New York Firestorm
By New York Management
After a disapointing loss in game 5 against Gabon in the first round
Gm/Coach Steven Goodstadt decided it was time to change. He decided to go
with a whole new team. He started by not making a huge bid on fan favorite
Scotter Jacobs and let him go to New Orleans. He decided to go stock up on
big men. And he decided to go after John Davis to go along with 2 time
allstar Kelvin Davidson. Well he got Davis and his team is looking young
and better then it probably has ever been in Firestorm history. This
offseason has a lot of fans looking foward for the season to come. " Coach
Goodstadt has done an excellent job of assembling this team. Mike Sewell,
Rod Lawrence, Don Beard, and John Davis to put with Kelvin Davidson will make
this team one of the best in the league," said Mike Alsesa of Brooklyn.
Although it will be tough to get far in the playoffs with Washington and
Rochester being in the same confrence, NY has a good enough team to compete
with them and possibly upset them.
Lets take a look at the Firestorm squad
Pg- Kelvin Davidson- The 8th pick of the season 2 draft picked up his totals
last year after scoring 18 points and had 10.6 assists. Look for his stats
to improve since hes been working out really hard this offseason.
Sg- Don Beard- Don was signed off Toyko this past offseason. He is a great
shooter and is the shooting shootin guard that Coach/GM Steven Goodstadt has
been lookin for.
Sf- Mike Sewell- Sewell has been a consistent small foward when he is
healthy. With Kelvin at point guard you should expect Mike to improve on his
scoring and rebounding.
Pf- Rod Lawrence- Lawrence has been solid at every part of his game. As a
small foward he had great rebounding numbers but he worked all offseason to
improve his rebounding numbers. Kelvin will help him improve his scoring
totals.
C- John Davis- He left Brooklyn to go cross town this offseason. Davis was
among the top 5 in rebounding and with his surrounding crew his rebounding,
and scoring will go up.
6th Man- Frank Fitzgerald C- Last years Firestorm center has relunctanly
accepted his demotion to being 6th man but he still should see some quality
minutes.
Rest of Team
Mike Stanley
Mike Clark
Xavier Schneider
Steve Cavallo
Bill Woo
Hick Hiller
Lee Blackwell
Curt Walsh.
NY has taken some chances this offseason. They acquired Mike Stanley from
Brooklyn who is considered a first round bust. They will atempt to turn his
reputation around like they did to scooter Jacobs. Although they are in a
tough conference we think they will eclipse last year's squad.
Prediction- 55-25
August 26th, 2001
The Colorado Overhaul
After the disastrous end of last season, in wich the best ever team of the WBA faltered in the playoffs, Colorado managment had some tough decisions to make.
Could the Darn Pioneers get their team back on track, or was new blood needed? While the Colorado managment was sure that FA Paul wright would leave, as he was offered ridicilous amounts of money elsewhere, the core of the team could remain intact........and then it came : THE OFFER!
6 first round picks, 4 of wich seemed to be good picks, an up and comming PF/C in Cristobal Dasher, and a star sg to replace wright in Kevon Duke, who probably is the best sg in the league.....allt hat for Boom Boom Casey, who is one of the best players the WBA knows.
Marc Hameleers, the colorado GM, decided to go for it. He was sure he could secure a new star C on the free agent Market...and he got one....Riddle, who ended last year on the same roster as Duke and Dasher, in Washington
The FA period also saw Colorado pick up Garth Donohue and saw pf Gus Rizollo, a great player, go for another 1st round pick plus oney towards the comming and next season.
Although the team has changed on several places, and now makes do without Taylor and Boom Boom, the Darn Pioneers look set for another great run.
THE LINEUP:
PG: Steve Peterson will again lead the Pioneers from point. One of the star PG's in the league, he will get plenty of playing time. Apart form Steve, the Pioneers will most likely give minutes to Ron ripple and Rookie Jim Shirley, who will fight it out for the remaining minutes at point
SG: No team in the league has as many options at SG as the Pioneers. Kevon Duke seems a certainty, but behind him 3 quality players, who would probably all start elsewhere, will see playing time: Pete Merrit, who's one of the best passing SG out there, and a quality player overall, Charley Young who's talent is highly touted, and Garth Donohue, who really shouldn't need introduction. Both Donohue and Merrit probably will see playing time at sf as well, versatile as they are. It is likely however that one of these great players will move elsewhere, and that the Colorado managment would like to see more depth at the PF position in return.
SF: Starting at SF, Heiko van brandt will also se eminutes at PF, to cover the minutes that Dasher wil have to rest. There fore the backup at this position is important. Both Merrit and Donohue, and rookie jon Morgenland, who gm Hameleers called the gcba's best kept secret, will see plenty of playing time, and with 4 quality options at sf, this position seems well covered.
PF: The PF position has little deoth...Just two players seem capable of playing here. Both however, are great players. Van Brandt will divide his time between this position and the SF position. Next to him willb e another great player, Cristobal Dasher. The Duo of Dasher/van Brandt may very well make Colroado the strongest team on PF for 48 minutes....with two players of their caliber, having depth seems less important
C: At C the Veteran John Riddle will start. Riddle, an all round quality player who perhaps lacks a little reobunding ( but who will be supported there by Dasher and van Brandt ) After him, minutes will most likely go to Bobby Cress, who's rebounding and blocking abilty where the reasons for Marc Hameleers to get him, and to rookie Glen Chandler, who also is expected to grow into a defensive force.
The Colorado lineup again seems very strong this year. It is doubtfull that they can copy last years results during the season, but they agian seem capable of winning it all. Apart froom their strong lineup, Colorado has lots of trading options, especcially at SG, and with plenty of picks in hand, it seems a matter of time before Colorado make another move. They have 6 first round picks in the next two years, and those probably will be traded away partly.....mmmhh..who wouldn't want a few Picks and Garth Donohue for that great PF, or.....or who..Oh well...Colorado seems set for this season AND the future!
August 22nd, 2001
The Vigin Island Gazette
St Thomas, Jamaica-
Jamaica is thrilled with coming of the once lowly Myrle Beach Mighty
Golfers... This team hasn't had a winning season yet in there 2 years in
the WBA... In the past two years MB has had 2 differnt starting lineups,
but this year they have a starting five that should be together for a
while... MB 1st year they were 17-63,and pulled of soe amazing defeats,
last season they were 8-72... They are in a division that is
tough... With the likes of Washingon, Brooklyn, and New York, and the
other powerhouses in the conference like Gabon, Berlin, and Boston, there
isn't much room to even think playoffs, but coach Williams is determined
to put some sparks to the critics and earn this team RESPECT and make the
playoffs this season... It will be a hard season without a clear
SuperStar, but VI wheeled and deal it self to some respectable
players line... former MightyGolfers Damon Trout and Johnny Brose,
acquiring Bill Lopez, Mike Reardon, Ed Bryant, Tyler Durden and a host of
others... VI is in the process of trading Duden, where they will get a
great combination with KeyShawn Eosso and John Felton, and Tony
Marshall... This year's starting line up could look like this..
PG- Damon Trout-start his Career with MB(13.8 pts and 7.7 assists)last
season he played with Berlin(10.3pts and 6.8assists)
SG- Mike Reardon-traditionally a PG, will be playing SG this season,
played with Albacete in limited Role but he is a pure solid PG
SF- Johnny Brose- also a player out of position, but SF should be
comfortable for him.. spen a little time with MB last season where he was
a consistent rebounder..
PF- John Felton- a traditional Center, play limited for Montatna last
season. should get plenty of playing time this season.
C- Bill Lopez- Center acquired from London(16.9pts and 10.6rebounds)
Reserves
Ed Bryant(best year was his frist season with SC)
Anthony Cronin(good 3pt shooter, something MB has been missing)
Roy Robinson(the andhor from a year ago...)
KeyShawn Eosso(an unproven player until this season)
Frank Moore(been with the team for the pst two seasons)
Fred Davis(overpaid non talented player who should get a lil playing time)
Eddie Atkinson(a rookie who has a lot of work to do..)
The rest are riftrafts...
MB is hoping to put together a .500 season... Alot of ppl are going to
question the acquistion of John Felton, but since Bill Lopez is accident
prone, he would be that backup and then Brose would move to PF and Eosso
would start at SF... It will all work out...
August 5th, 2001
How the WBA Turns
By Ron Chambers
Anybody familiar with pro sports understands that they are in many ways a Soap Opera. The WBA is no different. There are personallity conflicts players that hit it off and larger than life personalities (ie. Wes Ford). With Free agency looming I thought I'd give a quick rundown in three areas: 1) Players that have ssaid they WILL NOT resign with their current team, 2) Players who are so thrilled with their current teams that they have indicated that they would be willing to take a slightly smaller contract to stay with them, and 3) Players who have indicated that there are other teams they would like to go to.
Fortunately in the WBA a lot of the conflicts between teams and players don't get the huge press that they do in other leagues but there are several players who have siad they won't resign with their teams. Those players include: Garth Donohue, Myron White, Mike Begley, Thurman Holt, Joel Moore, Fred Cane and Dennis Kuhn.
On the flip side there are players who love their teams to the point htat they have said they would except a smaller contract they include: Brook Martin, Shane Strom, Jimmy Brennan, Jose Hayes and Don Beard
The last group is players who have specifically noted teams in the WBA that they would like to go to even if they made a little less: Bob Berry (Roswell), Ted Groth (Myrtle Beach), Tony Wills (Tokyo), Al Johnson (Baltimore), Leon Peterson (Washington), Sam Connors (Indiana) and Lee Blackwell (Winifred)
August 4th, 2001
Clutch Clubs
By Ron Chambers of GSPN
After the regular season I did an article about the top clubs in the WBA's short history. But, we all know that the best team in the regular season is not always the best in the post season. In fact, in the WBA the best regular season team has never won the title. In this article I will look at the WBA's Clutch teams. The teams who have been the best play-off teams in the league.
The first three spots were easy since we've had three different championsthe trick was to decide their order.
1) Brooklyn 19-10 .655
I'm sure this will surprise some people especially after the reputation they earned in the first two seasons. The Rage however are the only team to have a championship that has made it to the play-offs all three seasons and they are tied with Nebraska with the most play-off victories and they did it in two less games. And if that doesn't convince you you have to be impressed by their 15-3 record in the Season 3 play-offs which is the best play-off record of all time.
2) Nebraska 19-12 .613
Like Boston Nebraska has made it to the play-off twice and won one championship. But, they have made it to at least the second round in both play-offs they made and they have 2 more play-off victories than Boston. And I can't over look the great story they were in season 1 when they knocked off LA to go to the finals and then beat London in the Finals.
3) Boston 16-8 .667
Tied for the third most victories and have a title but have only been a presence in one play-off.
4) Roswell 16-13 .552
They had a great run in the season two play-offs loosing to Boston 4-3 in the Finals and played a tough round one series this year. They are also tied for the third most play-off wins.
5) Berlin 13-16 .448
You might be surprised to see a team under .500 make the top five but this team has been a force in every play-off in WBA history. They are the only team in the league to make it ot the second round every season. Many people will probably think London should go in this spot but I have to go with the team that has been there every year.
6) London 17-13 .567
7) Midland 10-13 .435
8) Colorado 12-9 .571
9) Cincinnati 11-10 .524
10) Tokyo 12.9 .571
11) Varese 10-6 .625
12) Cancun 8-10 .444
13) Washington 8-4 .667
14) New York 4-9 .308
15) Montana 3-10 .231
16) Sydney 6-4 .600
17) Winifred 6-6 .500
18) Albacete 3-9 .250
19) Gabon 3-6 .333
20) Maine 1-6 .143
21) S. Carolina 1-3 .250
22) New Orleans, Adelaide, Indiana & Baltimore are all 0-3
26) Chacarita, Bermuda and Myrtle Beach have never danced
August 4th, 2001
Retirements Become Official
Arnie Evers--FA
32
Arnold Moeller--FA
30
Bill Alston--FA
33
Bill Burns--FA
33
Bill Johnson--FA
30
Bill Leary--FA
38
Blue Walsh--FA
33
Bo Coffman--FA
38
Bob Bennett
31
Bob Boyd--FA
28
Bob Scott--FA
23
Bobby Evers--FA
38
Bubba Bradshaw--FA
40
Calvin Mann--FA
29
Carl Browne
33
Chad Johnson
34
Charlie Hill--FA
35
Dan Weaver--FA
36
Duane Jones--FA
29
Dusty Sanders
37
Ed Graham--FA
26
Eddie Stuart--FA
24
Ernie Dowd--FA
26
Frank Bolton--FA
36
Frank Gannon--FA
38
Frank Osteen--FA
33
Frank Womack--FA
24
Gary Harper--FA
32
Gary Jones--FA
29
Gene Williams--FA
34
George Hurst--FA
34
Hugh Gregg--FA
33
Jack Rowe--FA
25
Jake Cooke--FA
30
Jarvis Manuel--FA
27
Jerry Norton--FA
23
Jim Clark--FA
29
Jim Connors
32
Jimmy Ortiz
40
Jimmy Williams
36
John Hughes
39
John McGinnis--FA
30
John Phillips
40
John Reyes--FA
28
John Welch
38
Jose Bergman
35
Ken O'Neal--FA
35
Kevin Hawkins--FA
25
Larry Brooks--FA
29
Linc Galvin--FA
40
Mark Whitehead--FA
32
Maury Foreman
30
Mike Baldwin--FA
33
Mike Morgan
39
Mitchell Phillips--FA
22
Odell King--FA
27
Odie Lewis--FA
34
Pee-Wee Stoddard
31
Pete Benton
31
Pete Camp--FA
31
Pete Johnson--FA
28
Pete Thomas
34
Phil Flaherty
32
Ralph Owen--FA
33
Rich Smith
38
Roger Garrett--FA
35
Roy McCormick--FA
35
Sam Connor--FA
27
Sam Merritt--FA
33
Sam Sewell--FA
39
Steve Combs
38
Steve Foster--FA
35
Stump O'Connell--FA
30
Terry Walters--FA
33
Todd Hines--FA
31
Tony Rader--FA
29
Vern Flaherty--FA
27
Woody Summers--FA
28
Dave Cedeno--FA
23
Ed Brown--FA
23
Eddie Rasmussen--FA
23
Jeromy Sheth--FA
24
Jim Cantwell--FA
23
John Mack--FA
23
Lloyd Franck--FAs
23
Paul Sanderson--FA
23
Jeremaih Cohn--FA
22
Joe Davis--FA
23
John Dimarco--FA
22
John Hart--FA
21
John Watt--FA
23
Myles Bapna--FA
22
Paul Williamson--FA
22
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 the league. They
finished season 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 over the next few seasons. None of them look like
they will be top picks but if they 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.