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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
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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
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Totals 265 54- 99 27-35 4- 9 11-40 38 19 6 12 7 139
54.5% 77.1% 44.4%
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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
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Positions Quarters
Western All-Stars PG SG SF PF C 1 2 3 4 OT
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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
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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
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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)
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Western Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
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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
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Totals 240 37- 83 5- 6 2- 9 3-29 29 13 5 17 11 81
44.6% 83.3% 22.2%
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Coached by:
Technical Fouls: Sam Plummer 1
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Eastern Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
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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