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GLOBAL SPORTS PROGRAMMING NETWORK
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January 8th, 2003
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
WBA MVP
Wayne Taylor, Nebraska
2) Lou Gonzales, Oregon
WBA DEFENSIVE MVP
Lou Gonzales, Oregon
2) Lonnie Gerson, Carolina
WBA 6TH MAN AWARD
Joe Clark, Oregon
2) Charlie Jones, Budapest
WBA MOST IMPROVED AWARD
Devonta Corrigan, Utah
2) Bill Rainwater, Oregon
WBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Dave Troychak, Miami
2) Emmett Yee, Colorado
TEAM AWARDS
ALL-WBA
FIRST TEAM
C - Lou Gonzales, Oregon
PF- Dave Short, Boston
SF- Wayne Taylor, Nebraska
SG- Dave Williams, Rochester
PG- Parker Mason, Cancun
SECOND TEAM
C - Bill Yeager, Boston
PF- Kent Mercer, Cancun
SF- Shane Strom, Brooklyn
SG- George Foster, Texas
PG- Kelvin Davidson, London
ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
C- Ramiro Watts, Nebraska
PF- Mark Miller, Utah
SF- Emmett Yee, Colorado
SG- Dave Troychak, Miami
PG- Jimmy Whalen, Nebraska
GM OF THE YEAR
Cory Bowen (Boston)
COACH OF THE YEAR
Brent Bangerter (Miami)
January 7th, 2003
Budapest News
Main News is that the basketball team Budapest Tigers did not change hands as reports said earlier. But GM Dugyik Tamas sold 49% of the teams shares to the Hungarian Beer Drinkers Association (HBDA).
After this deal everybody seemed happy:
- Dugyik Tamas agreed that his players are allowed to drink beer before the matches to boost their morale(whatever that means, we didnt understand this move).
- The team name (at least unofficially for now) changed to Budapest Drunken Tigers.
- Tamas hopes he will now have enough money to resign his players at the end of the contract, especially his guards Jalen Bell and Charlie Jones
- He also expects full house on every match next year (mainly because with every bought ticket you get unlimited beer during the matches)
- Dugyik Tamas will stay as GM and as coach of the team
This deal made a lot of contraversy in Budapest, people are affraid strange things will happen in Budapest next year if players and spectators will compete in beer consumption.
Other news:
- Jalen Bell and Charlie Jones got drunk after the disapointing exit in the first round of the play-offs. They felt guilty for the looses and said they will extend their contracts for only 4 mill/year with Budapest. But The next morning they denied these facts saying they were too drunk to think clear.
- Several Budapest players that were seen in the nightclubs with beautiful women before the gamedays are punished with 100.000 USD each, but their names remain a secret.
January 5th, 2003
Mock Draft
1) GREG LACY: Colorado will pick the best available talent here..and that
is Greg Lacy. Lacy may lack scoring, but in Colorado, that may not be as
much of a problem.
2) OBAFEMI MABRUKE: Together with lacy the players that stand out form the crowd. Mabruke is the sure no2 if lacy goes number one..and vice versa
3) Abegunda Abasi: Nebraska needs a 3 or a 4....and probably the best still available here is Abasi. Don't be suprised is Nebraska makes a move to get the 1st or 2nd pick!!!
4) Eric Manning: A rebounding PG....that has few turnovers? gotta get
that....and can he play SG? Bonus!!!!! Salt lake will get the guard they
want. Oliver mcarthey is the Alternative here
5) Craig Bradshaw: Apart form a guard, Saltlake wants a big C.....And
That'll mean Bradshaw or Van Horne. If Bangeter comes out early, he will go here!
6) John van Horne: Unless Vasquez enters the Draft, Van Horne or Bradshaw is a sure pick here for Colorado. They need a big man!
7) Samir Sheth: Another guard for Colorado???? Well, Colorado always drafts talent over position if they can afford it...and they can. No doubt either peterson, Williams, yee, or Sheth will be traded for a 4/5..unless Abasi drops to here!
8) Zane Rivers; Rivers may go a little high here, but unless bangeter or
vasquez come out early, he is the best C available..and utah needs that
badly!
9) Oliver Mcarthy: No matter how many PG's Birmingham has, They haven't one of this quality. It will be either him or manning, if Mcarthy was taking
insteadof him earlier. There is an outside that change that Birmingham will
take their time rebuilding and go for KD mobley, who can score...but needs a few years to ge his aiming right.
10)Odibe King: a 3/4 is a perfect fit for baltimore, and King is the best
left....or even in the draft.
11)Brian Collins: As ther ewon't be a quality big men here, unless Vasquez
or bangeter enters early, Texas should just draft the best player there and
trade......better option: trade up if no C's of qualkity declare early
12)Brandon Morfeld: Ok, Brandon is really a late first rounder...but can
Coach Morfeld resist drafting his namesake here????? He might be gone whenhe
gets anohter shot......
January 1st, 2003
LOTTERY RESULTS (expected)
==========================
12 Budapest (via Colorado) (12)
11 Texas (via Carolina) (11)
10 Baltimore (10)
9 Birmingham (via Omaha) (9)
8 Utah (8)
7 Colorado (via Varese) (7)
6 Colorado (via VI) (6)
5 Roswell (via New York) (4)
4 Salt Lake City (2)
3 Nebraska (via Birmingham) (3)
2 Capetown (1)
1 Colorado (via California) (5)
December 28th, 2003
Play-off Predictions
by Pat Fullum
Eastern conference
#1 Cancun
#8 Montana
(Cancun won season series 3-1)
Montana had some good games against Cancun this season, but they won't upset the #1 Outlaws.
Cancun 3-1
#4 Texas
#5 Cincinnati
(Season series tied 2-2)
Cincy has been up and down this season, and this series could go either way. Texas needs to be aggressive and get McCarthy into foul trouble to win this series.
Texas 3-2
#2 Oregon
#7 Miami
(Oregon won season series 3-1)
Too bad for Miami, they wont face a "C" team.
Oregon wins 3-0
#3 Nebraska
#6 Roswell
(Nebraska won season series 3-1)
This will be an interesting series, as I think Roswell has underachieved all season long, while Nebraska has played really solid ball, but I still expect Nebraska to get to the 2nd round.
Nebraska wins 3-2
Western conference
#1 Boston
#8 Rochester
(Boston won season series 3-1)
Boston is the best team in the league, coming into the playoffs having won 18 straight, Rochester could steal one game max.
Boston 3-0
#4 Albacete
#5 London
(Albacete won season series 3-1)
In my opinion the most interesting first round matchup. This is a great rivalry, with London's owner promising to die if he looses. I think London will step up and the loss of Bobby Cress will really hurt Albacete.
London 3-1
#2 Washington
#7 Brooklyn
(Washington won season series 3-1)
Brooklyn has been up and down all season long, and I really think they miss Wes Ford's leadership, and I don't see how they can beat Washington's strong squad (they don't have a PG, but Brooklyn has Justin Krueger)
Washington 3-2
#3 Budapest
#6 Gabon
(Gabon leads 2-1)
Gabon played solid against Budapest and seem to match up very well against them, they get to the line a lot and that has hurt the Tigers this season.
Gabon 3-1
2nd round
West
#1 Cancun
#4 Texas
(Cancun won season series 4-0)
Parker Mason has been on a roll late in the season, playing great ball and he will lead Cancun past Texas.
Cancun 4-1
#2 Oregon
#3 Nebraska
(Oregon won season series 3-1)
This series will be hard fought, Nebraska might pull this one, but Oregon looks good and will advance to the western finals.
East
#1 Boston
#5 London
(Boston won season series 3-1)
London has promised that they would look better in the post season, but it wont be enough to beat this Boston squad.
Boston 4-2
#2 Washigton
#7 Gabon
(Washington won season series 3-1)
Having lost in the first round in the last 3 seasons as a top seed, Gabon will be hungry and will go the the eastern finals with their aggressive play and tough defense.
Gabon 4-2
Eastern finals
#1 Cancun
#2 Oregon
(Cancun won season series 3-1)
Cancun has owned Oregon since the first game where they lost by one point. But the post season is another story. While Mason has had success against Oregon, Kent Mercer struggled somewhat against the leagues best defender, Lou Gonzalez, and will need to step up to get his team the win
Cancun wins 4-1
#1 Boston
#7 Gabon
(Boston won season series 3-1)
Gabon's Cinderella run will end against Boston, although if Boston's big guns get into foul trouble, this could be an interesting series. It all depends if the Hameleers, Vinyard and Bramson can get to the line and Diaz, Yeager and Short must play smart and not get fouled out.
Boston 4-3
WBA Finals
#1 Boston
#1 Cancun
(Boston won season series 2-0)
For the second season in a row, the team with the best regular season record will win it all. Cancun will put up a fight, but they are just not strong enough to pull this upset.
Boston 4-2
Play-off Predictions
by Sam Plummer
#8 Montana vs. #1 Cancun--Cancun wins series 3-1
#7 Miami vs. #2 Oregon--Miami wins series 3-2
#6 Roswell vs. #3 Nebraska--Nebraska wins series 3-0
#5 Cincinnati vs. #4 Texas--Cincinnati wins series 3-2
#8 Rochester vs. #1 Boston--Boston wins series 3-0
#7 Brooklyn vs. #2 Washington--Brooklyn wins series 3-2
#6 Gabon vs. #3 Budapest--Budapest wins series 3-0
#5 London vs. #4 Albacete--London wins series 3-1
#5 Cincinnati vs. #1 Cancun--Cancun wins series 4-1
#7Miami vs. #3 Nebraska--Miami wins series 4-2
#5 London vs. #1 Boston--Boston wins series 4-2
#7 Brooklyn vs. #3 Budapest--Budapest wins series 4-1
#7 Miami vs. #1 Cancun--Cancun wins series 4-1
#3 Budapest vs. #1 Boston--Budapest wins series 4-3
Cancun vs. Budapest--Cancun wins 4-2
December 23rd, 2002
In The News
During dinner today Bobby Cress of the Albacete Bruning Hell had a heart attack. Fortunately he lived and is said to be doing well but team Doctors say he will miss teh rest of the season and atleast the first round of the play-offs.
Virgin Islans stated today that Rik Kist violated a team rule and will miss one day. Team officials have not stated what rule was violated.
Brooklyn's rookie Power Forward Mike Barrett left his abussive wife today. Friends say that his professional wretler wife has been beating up on him because he is not turning out to be the WBA star she had hoped he'd be when they married in college.
Playoff Predictions
By Kevin Harper
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Round 1
(1)Oregon Vs (8)Montana
-Montana is a good team. If Perkins and Jones really step up, and Oregon starts off slow, there is a good chance Montana will win. But Lou Gonzales and Bill Rainwater will carry the team and avoid the big upset.
Oregon Wins 3-1
(2)Cancun Vs (7)Miami
-Miami dosent have much of a chance here. They are a growing team that is still building. Troychak and Miami might put up a fight, but Cancun will be too much for him in this series.
Cancun Wins 3-1
(3)Texas Vs (6)Roswell
-This has the makings of a good series. Although Roswell has been a dissapointment this season, they still have the ability to play with big boys. Roswell has done well against Texas this season and I don't see why they won't continue this trend.
Roswell Wins 3-2
(4)Nebraska Vs (5)Cincy
-This should also be a pretty good series. Both teams have been stepping up their games at the end of the regular season. But, look for Wayne Taylor to dominate and lead Nebraska to a victory.
Nebraska Wins 3-1
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Round 1
(1)Boston Vs (8)Rochester
-Boston will continue it's dominance and take care of Rochester. Boston is simply overpowering. Rochester might squeeze one game out of this series if they're lucky.
Boston wins 3-0
(2)Washington Vs (7)Gabon
-The lack of a decent Point Guard will hurt Washington very badly in this series. The Guard tandem of Ethan Hunt and Otto Hameleers will defensivley control this series and lead Gabon to a narrow victory over a great team in Washington.
Gabon Wins 3-2
(3)Budapest Vs (6)London
-Yet another great series in the making in the 1st round. London has been slipping lately and Budapest is a consistant team. That is what the series should come to. Budapest's great defense will keep London in check most of the time and Kelvin Davidson will probably get injured again!
Budapest wins 3-2
(4)Albacete Vs (5)Brooklyn
-While this series looks like it will be extremely tight, I dont' see Brookyn wining this. Albacete has been too hot latley to lose here. Brooklyn is still getting better. 19-year old Mario Bailey will just get better and eventually be a key player on this Brooklyn team. Maybe next year Brooklyn.
Albacete Wins 3-1
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Quarter-Finals
(1)Oregon Vs (4)Nebraska
-This should be a great matchup in a growing rivaly. Last season, Nebraska came back from a 2-0 game defecit to beat Oregon in the first round. Dont expect a repeat performance. Gonzales and Company will play well here. Wayne Taylor will still shine as an MVP canidate, but the rest of Nebraksa's powerful offense will be contained. The other MVP front-runner Lou Gonzales will post consistant 25-point,10-rebound,5-block games. Bill Rainwater might explode for a 40 point game also. This will still be a very close series.
Oregon Wins 4-3
(2)Cancun Vs (6)Roswell
-This is lop-sided matchup in which Cancun will win. Greene and Dasher cannot carry this team by themselves and it will show against a very deep team in Cancun.
Cancun Wins 4-1
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Quarter-Finals
(1)Boston Vs (4)Albacete
-These just might be the two best teams in the playoffs. This will be a great series and should come down to the wire. Boston would be able to handle Albacete much easier if it wasnt for their foul trouble. Big Free-Agent acquisition Camron Diaz is fouling out too much and might cost his team some games. In the end, Boston is still too good and will edge Albacete.
Boston Wins 4-3
(3)Budapest Vs (7)Gabon
-This will be yet another close series. Budapest has the edge because of depth and better defense. If Hameleers and Bramson play exceptionally well in this series, I think Gabon will knock off the 3rd seeded Tigers. But, for now I can't count out Budapest and their suffocating D.
Budapest Wins 4-3
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Semi-Finals
(1)Oregon Vs (2)Cancun
-This will be a great challenge for Oregon. Early in the season, Cancun made Oregon look like a High School JV team. But, since then Oregon has done work do make themselves better and will really be able to compete with Cancun for a trip to the finals. Lou will have to play his best, and Rainwater will have to keep the ball under control in order for Oregon to win.
Cancun wins 4-3
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Semi-Finals
(1)Boston Vs (3)Budapest
-If Boston keeps their fouling under control, then they shouldnt have too much of a problem disposing of Budapest. Budapest showed last season they have problems advancing too far into the playoffs.
Boston wins 4-2
WBA Finals
Boston Massacre(East) Vs Cancun Outlaws(West)
-This is a closely matched game. Parker Mason and Co. will have to step up to face this mighty Boston team. Once again, foul trouble is the key for the Massacre. If their starters continue to be in constant foul trouble, then Cancun will take home the WBA Finals Trophy. If they dont they will cruise. I belive they will have some trouble, but not enough to lose.
Boston Wins 4-2
WBA Season Awards Predictions
WBA Co-MVPs : Lou Gonzales, Oregon
Wayne Taylor, Nebraska
WBA Rookie Of The Year: Emmett Yee, Colorado
WBA 6th Man Award: Charlie Jones, Budapest
All-WBA Team:
C- Lou Gonzales, Oregon
PF- AJ Schulz, Brooklyn
SF- Wayne Taylor, Nebraska
SG- Bill Rainwater, Oregon
PG- Chuck Henderson, Rochester
All-WBA Rookie Team:
C- Ramiro Watts, Nebraska
PF- Trent Jordan, New York
SF- Lonnie Gerson, Carolina
SG- Dave Troychak, Miami
PG- Jimmy Whalen, Nebraska
December 12th, 2002
In the News
An angry business man from Albacete went to today's Nebraska/ Albacete game. Not only was he not able to close a big fertilizer sale but his team lost. In a fit of rage he threw what was left of the stale snickers bar he had gotten from the concessions stand. The bar hit Kwan Thomas in the back of the head and knocked him out. He is expected to miss one game.
Roger Bradshaw of Cincinnati choked on a pretzle passed out and will miss tomorrow's game.
Keith Griffin of SLC spilt on a visiting Boston fan who called him a poligamist. The league has suspended Griffin for one game. On a side note there is no basis for this accusation by the Boston fan. Griffin is not married though the Inquirer is reporting that he did date two women at once.
Pete Small of Montana got into today's game against Colorado for all of ttwenty seconds before he punched Austyn Williams in the face. Samall is reported to behaving a difficult time with the death of his mother and has been suspended for 3 games. Williams has a sore chin but should not miss any games.
Rondall Reynoso of Rochester has been convicted of Criminal Assault and Battery and will miss the rest of the season with jail time. Reynoso has refussed to comment on the conviction but it appears that while on a recent trip to New York he was provocked by a fan that he proceeded to beat to a pulp.
Odell Bell of Utah fell off his bed while having a nightmare. Unfortuantely, he landed at a very awkward angle and will miss the rest of the season with a broken arm.
Kelvin Davidson has been complaining about pain in his leg during lateral movement. He claims that this is why Justin Krueger of Brooklyn was able to light him up today. The London Disco team Doctor says that the amout of minutes Davidson has had to play as a WBA star is showing. Davidson will miss the next 6 games to give his legs some much needed rest.
December 12th, 2002
MOCK DRAFT
By Pedro Alcarez
1. CAPETOWN: This teams needs help everywhere out of the Center, where Jack Spiegel and Keith Chambers are good players. PG is horrible here, but we cant find anyone to go with the top pick at this position. Being scoring and rebounding the top needs, a player like Obafemi Mabruke is the best suited to carry the big load this team is. Mabruke can really score, crash the boards, hes a great passing player, and he shows great hands to steal the ball.
Obafemi Mabruke(SF): 20 points, 12 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals
2. SALT LAKE CITY: Rumour is that SLC will pick Brad Bargenter is he declares, but the player still hasnt said a word about it, and his teanmates have declared that he plans to play one last season for the GCBA. In any way, SLC has John Davis and Paul Wilson signed long term, which cover decently the frontcourt for the Fanatics. Hayes makes a good work, Durden is a great scorer and Harold Gill is a very decent player, then what happens here? Well, just and plain, SLC doesnt play defense at all, and out of the big men, no one rebounds decently. A good pick could be Eric Manning, a great all around PG/SG, who could fix all this problems, being capabnle of passing the ball, get a lot of boards at his position, and getting the ball off the hands of anyone
Eric Manning (PG/SG): 10 points, 6 rebounds, 10 assists, 3 steals
3. COLORADO (from California): Losing Duke, Dasher and Cress hurts in the short term, but Marc made a brilliant move trading Cress for picks that will end being great ones (California was a playoff team when the trade took place). With Dasher and Cress out, no cap room and Langstraat expiring contract, its easy to wonder that Colorado needs a C to come back to the elite. Craig Bradshaw or John Van Horne are the candidates here, with Bradshaw being a bertter scorer and more durable in terms of health, the Dutch origins of Van Horne will make tim the chosen
John Van Horne(C): 19 points, 13 rebounds, 2 steals and 3 blocks
4. COLORADO (from VI): Once the C is filled, the best player available is out of doubt Greg Lacy. Colorado doesnt really needs a PF, but Lacy could find minutes with Van Brandt on the bench, or moving Van Brandt to the SF when Yee takes a rest. Lacy is a great talent in every area of the game, and his versatility will help to Colorado a lot.
Greg Lacy(PF): 18 points, 10 boards, 7 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocks
5. ROSWELL (form NY): Brian will keep saying that his team is the best, that hes a genius as a GM, but this team, with a great frontcourt, is really bad in the guards rotation, Wesley Phillips will never be the PG of a top team, and Brian has to know it. Other need is a better rounded SG, Moore can score, but thats all. If Roswell management considers that big men passing abilities can make up for a bad passing guard, then Brian Collins will be the pick. Collins is a scorer too, but he can excel at any other category in the game. Sitill, he will need to defend the ball.
Brian Collins (SG/SF): 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block in 22 minutes
6. NEBRASKA (from Birmhingan): If i know Brandon (and i own part of his soul since las draft), he will try to trade up to get Lacy. If hes unable to do it, the most urging needs are a PF and a SG, and some boost in defense. Oman Fatafehi is a PF whose better qualities are the rebound, blkocks and stealing, being an offensive gifted big man too.
Oman Fatafehi(PF) 17 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks
7. BALTIMORE: Baltimore is one other team that needs help everywhere, maybe out of SG. Stub Madison is a good PG, but he isnt getting any younger, and he will be 29 next season. With a bad defense, and being outrebounded every night, the first need will be a frontcourt player who knows how to spell the “D”. Abegunda Abasi is known as one of the top scorers in the draft pool, but his scoring averages hide that hes a player well rounded that shows up in both zones. Abasi can do a lot for a rebuilding project like this
Abegunda Abasi (PF/C): 28 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks
8. BIRMHINGAN(from Omaha): Bob Delaney and Bill Blackstone are the only bright signs for the Burries, and bot play at the forwards, which means that the team is shorthanded at the center and guards. The PG rotation is pathetic, and that would make him drafting a PG, but with a C needed too, and Craig Bradshaw ready to be drafted, its a done pick. Bradshaw could be easily gone by this pick, even more if Colorado doesnt use sentimental reasons at his selection. Bradshaw will make an inmediate effect for this needed team.
Craig Bradshaw (C): 25 points, 13 boards, 3 assits, 2 steals and 2 blocks
9. TEXAS (from Carolina): Here is a team that has turned around his situation slowly. Now Texas has a winning record, have good players signed long term...but theres an issue (like always). Texas is constantly outrebounded, and Lou Boone going at the end of the season for cap reasons wont help. Someone will have to play C in this team, and, while Kegan Salazar is a serviciable player, hes a backup. Zane Rivers could be a solution to play for Texas.
Zane Rivers(C): 15 points, 11 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 blocks
10 NEBRASKA (from Montana): If Brandon has his PF, , now the need is a backup for the PG and the SG. With one more pick in the mid tens, he could end trading up to get lacy again, if not, bot pick could end being seviceable backups at backcourt. Jimmy Whalen hasnt resulted to be the dominant PG he was expected to be, and this late at the lottery, a player like Oliver McCarty could help a lot at the PG. Hes not as passing oriented as whalen, but hes more rounded and a better defender.
Oliver McCarty(PG): 16 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 boards and 1 block
11. COLORADO: We have called a C and a PF, what about a SG to close the guards rotation? This way, Austyn Williams will be able to share time at the PG with Peterson on the bench. We all know that Samir Sheth plays for Marc's `alma mater' Amsterdam University. If hes available, he will play for Colorado the nest seasons
Samir Sheth(SG): 30 points, 6 boards, 2 assists, 2 steals
12. COLORADO(from Varese): Theres no real need hear, maybe some specialist here for the frontcourt. Alfred Hodge is a versatile big man that wont demand the ball, but hes capable to hurt the opponents in the deffensive end, playing with a lot of intensity in defense and a rare ability on not committing fouls
Alfred Hodge(PF/C): 8 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks
13. UTAH: This team is the X-factor. With Corrigan and Miller signed, a lot of cap room available and some players to extend, if they are capable to convince Alvin Simpson to stay, SG and C are the obvious needs. How Utah plans to use the free agency will determine who they draft. With all the dominant C picked before, maybe a SG will be a better pick, and Petya Denisov is the best available at this point, with a lot of weapons to make a service for this team
Petya Denisov (SG/SF): 13 points, 5 rebounbds, 4 assits, 2 steals and 1 block
14 ROSWELL: Now a PG is out of question (even if Bryan makes the pick). Vincent Robinson is a first pass oriented PG, who helps in the rebound and takes a lot of care of the ball. HE could give good minutes as a rookie, and the team would play even better with him at the command
Vincent Robinson(PG): 11 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assits, 2 steals, 1 TO
15. NEBRASKA: Like ive said before, if Nebraska keeps this pick, a backup SG could be the best suited here. Jim Madden sounds good if you want a scoring punch from the bench
Jim MAdden (SG/SF): 15 points, 9 rebounds
16. MIAMI: This is a team with one of the young stars of teh league in Troychack. Out of him, Miami has decent players at PG, PF and C, but theres a void at the SF. The best of this team is the defense they play, but the rebound and the FG% kill them. MIsha Kryznetsov is a polivalent forward with a great shooting ability that will make everything on court, since rebounding, to defend.
Misha Kryznetsov(SF/PF): 13 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 1 block
17. CINCINATTI: Cindy again.... capped out, and with Hewlett ending contract, theyt will need to draft a SG again. Too bad, there no one available who can fill his shoes. Tyson Cooper is the best available with his scoring ability, but there are doubts about his fragility. If Cindy takes the risk, and it results to be good, he will be a good complement
Tyson Cooper(SG): 12 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assits, 3 steals
18. SALT LAKE CITY (from Texas): With the PG fixed, SLC needs to add more players who play D. Quintin Pitt does it, and he does it well. Besides, he will help the rebounders more than anyone in the team
Quintin Pitt (SF/PF): 18 points, 7 boards, 3 steals and 1 block
19 ROCHESTER: Rochester is a good team, but a little short in effectives. His bench doesnt deserve to be called a second unit. The major needs are at SG, SF and PF, but thesre just one pick to use. Just to make Williams play under 40 minutes, Rochester could pick Tre Freeman, who is a scorer overall, but can do a lot more of things on court
Tre Freeman(SG/SF): 8 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assits, 1 steal in 19 minutes
20. GABON: The search for a C in draft will never end with this team,and if Marten Kurpeitis is around, Simon would be silly passing on him. Kurpeikis is the best shotblocker in the draft, and he can score very easily
Marten Kurpeikis (C): 20 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks
21. ALBACETE(from Brooklyn): Albacete is a very deep team, with no real needs at this point. He will take the best player available, and at this poits it happens to be Roy Cader. Cader is a scoring big man, but some purt in question his desire in the other basic areas of a center, like the rebound
Roy Cader (C): 26 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, 3 blocks
22. VIRGIN ISLAND (from Albacete): Please, a PG!!! We all know that with a PG (he doesnt need to be a good one), VI would be a better team. Having played for Heavenly, Felipe Juarez is the top candidate to be selected here, Juarez is a great scorer, but he lacks in passing abilities. I dont know why, but im sure VI will select him
23. CAROLINA (from Budapest): This team needs desperately a PF and a C, the scoring seems guaranteed, but the defense and the boards no. A player like Will Rider can score his points, but he knows what he makes better, and it is to crash the boards and play defense. He hasnt played enough minutes this season, that could make him loose positions in draft
Will Rider (PF/C): 7 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block in 12 minutes
24 LONDON: London has had problems of chemistry this season after the trade that ended with Ozzie Kramer with the Disco. They have a dominant C and a dominant PG(the most important positions in the game). They have the best dirty worker in the league in Chanda, but with Kramer being a good player, the PF never has been well filled. Sky Harrington cant start for a contender, just and plain. Al Watson is the kind of player that could find minutes for London, hes a player that is capable to score, but he will defend very hard, and is very rebounded oriented
Al Watson (PF): 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block in 27 minutes
25. CANCUN: You can argue whatever, but Cancun hasnt a decent SG.While we cant find the perfect player this late in the draft, Danny Hainge could be the most talented player available, but his fragility will make him to loose a lot of positions (he could have been a lottery pick). Hainge will score, pass the ball, defend, and rarely turns the ball over, a perfect compliment to Parker Mason
Danny Hainge(PG/SG): 19 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals
26. CALIFORNIA(from Washington): This team will need to choose between a C and a PG. But given the lack of a great talent around, California could opt for selecting the top scorer in draft and boost their offense with K.D. Mobley, and the moving Jordan to C. Mobley is a pure scorer that could take all the shots needed in California
KD Mobley(PF): 35 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals
27. TEXAS(from Oregon): with a C already selected, Texas still has the problem that anyone is capable to play basketball when Berthelson and Foster are resting. A combo guard would be the most intelligent solution here, and John Archibald is the one that can easily play both positions, maybe a lil more at PG. Hes an old school player, who looks always to pass firsdt of all, and he plays always under control. His defense will make him a good player this late in draft
John Archibald(PG/SG): 12 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals
28 BOSTON I suppose they could try to improve at PG. Johnny Burns is the top player at steals in the draft, and Boston could use him
Johnny Burns (PG): 10 points, 7 assists, 5 steals
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Johnny Hawks
Oliver Doherty
Jake Johnston
Sergio Cahill
Evilio Nunez
Zachariah Salera
Willie Thomas
Kelian Fabares
Lonnie Graham
Patrick O'Connor
Brandon Morfeld
Gianni Colladarci
Shavlik Kuhnaphel
December 10th, 2002
All-Star Game
Western All-Sta 14 35 29 18 - 96 (Wayne Taylor 17)
Eastern All-Sta 22 19 17 15 - 73 (Boom-Boom Casey 12)
GAME MVP: Wayne Taylor, Western All-Stars
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Western All-Stars FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parker Mason 24 1- 7 3- 4 0- 2 3- 7 7 0 0 3 1 5
George Foster 22 5-10 2- 2 0- 0 1- 2 1 2 0 3 0 12
Wayne Taylor 20 7-12 2- 2 1- 1 0- 6 1 3 0 0 0 17
Tom Perkins 20 4- 7 2- 4 0- 0 1- 4 1 0 0 0 1 10
Lou Gonzales 11 2- 6 4- 6 0- 0 0- 0 1 2 2 0 1 8
Cristobal Dasher 19 2- 4 0- 0 0- 1 0- 2 2 2 1 1 1 4
Jim McCarthy 19 5-14 0- 0 0- 0 3- 7 0 5 2 0 1 10
Devonta Corrigan 22 5- 9 2- 2 0- 0 1- 5 0 2 1 0 2 12
Bill Rainwater 21 5- 9 2- 4 0- 0 1- 8 0 3 1 2 1 12
Heiko Van Brandt 20 1- 3 0- 0 0- 0 3- 7 3 0 1 2 1 2
Steve Peterson 22 1- 7 0- 0 0- 3 2- 4 9 0 0 2 2 2
Kent Mercer 19 1- 6 0- 0 0- 1 1- 3 0 1 1 0 3 2
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 39- 94 17-24 1- 8 16-55 25 20 9 13 14 96
41.5% 70.8% 12.5%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eastern All-Stars FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chuck Henderson 19 3- 5 0- 0 0- 2 1- 3 2 0 0 1 6 6
Dave Williams 21 4- 7 0- 0 0- 0 0- 3 3 1 1 1 0 8
Jaxon McCall 20 3-11 3- 3 0- 5 2- 5 0 1 1 4 1 9
Jerry Bramson 20 1- 4 0- 0 0- 0 0- 5 5 0 2 2 0 2
Horace Colbert 21 4- 8 2- 2 0- 0 2- 6 2 5 0 2 1 10
Shane Strom 20 2-10 1- 2 0- 1 0- 3 1 2 0 1 2 5
Kelvin Davidson 21 4- 8 0- 0 0- 0 0- 1 3 3 0 1 1 8
Kevon Duke 21 1- 7 0- 0 0- 2 0- 1 1 3 0 1 0 2
Arron Black 21 0- 4 0- 0 0- 2 0- 5 1 1 0 1 0 0
Boom-Boom Casey 21 3- 9 6- 6 0- 0 1- 2 3 4 0 1 2 12
A.J. Schulz 21 3- 9 2- 4 1- 1 0- 3 1 1 0 2 0 9
Stub Madison 13 1- 1 0- 0 0- 0 0- 0 2 1 0 0 0 2
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 29- 83 14-17 1-13 6-37 24 22 4 17 13 73
34.9% 82.4% 7.7%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Lead Changes: 5 Ties: 5 (41-41)
Go-Ahead Shot: Bill Rainwater (42-41)
Largest Leads: Western All-Stars -- 25 (94-69)
Eastern All-Stars -- 10 (22-12)
==============================================================================
December 10th, 2002
Rookie Game
Western Rookies 19 17 23 22 - 81 (Dave Troychak 19)
Eastern Rookies 30 23 28 22 - 103 (Charlie Daidone 20)
GAME MVP: Lance Armstrong, Eastern Rookies
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Western Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dave Troychak 24 7-16 5- 9 0- 1 0- 1 0 2 0 1 0 19
Emmett Yee 25 1- 7 2- 2 0- 1 0- 2 1 1 0 2 0 4
Al Lee 24 1- 4 0- 0 0- 1 1- 2 3 1 0 2 0 2
Harold Gil 24 6-12 0- 0 0- 1 0- 4 2 2 0 1 3 12
John Gaiser 23 2-10 3- 6 0- 2 1- 1 7 2 0 1 0 7
Mark Miller 24 2-10 0- 0 0- 2 1- 7 3 4 5 2 2 4
Kevin Mills 24 2- 8 7-10 0- 1 0- 3 2 1 0 0 1 11
Samson Reeves 24 4- 6 1- 2 0- 1 1- 7 0 5 1 1 0 9
Brandon Sandler 24 2- 4 0- 2 0- 0 1- 2 5 2 0 2 3 4
Wilson Callaway 24 3- 9 2- 2 1- 3 1- 6 2 5 2 0 0 9
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 30- 86 20-33 1-13 6-35 25 25 8 12 9 81
34.9% 60.6% 7.7%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Technical Fouls: Harold Gil 1
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eastern Rookies FG FT 3P REB
MIN M-A M-A M-A O-T A PF BLK TO STL PTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charlie Daidone 24 9-14 2- 2 0- 0 0- 1 2 1 0 1 0 20
Mario Bailey 24 5-12 3- 5 0- 0 0- 3 3 2 0 0 0 13
Trent Jordan 22 3- 8 0- 0 0- 3 2- 5 1 4 0 1 1 6
Gabriel Keniry 22 5-14 1- 2 0- 0 1- 2 1 3 1 0 0 11
John Diblasi 20 2- 7 2- 2 0- 1 2- 6 1 2 3 1 0 6
Fernando Edwards 23 5-13 3- 4 0- 0 3- 7 1 2 0 3 1 13
Charles Cushman 20 0- 5 0- 0 0- 0 4-14 3 2 1 2 1 0
Keith Douglas 24 2- 5 2- 2 0- 1 0- 3 9 3 0 0 0 6
Lance Armstrong 24 1- 5 11-13 0- 1 1- 9 3 3 0 1 2 13
Jose Nobis 12 2- 3 0- 0 0- 0 0- 2 1 0 0 1 2 4
Karl Maloney 24 3- 6 5- 6 0- 0 2- 5 1 2 0 2 0 11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals 240 37- 92 29-36 0- 6 15-57 26 24 5 12 7 103
40.2% 80.6% 0.0%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coached by:
Lead Changes: 2 Ties: 1 (6-6)
Go-Ahead Shot: Lance Armstrong (7-6)
Largest Leads: Western Rookies -- 3 (6-3)
Eastern Rookies -- 25 (100-75)
Injuries: Western Rookies Eastern Rookies
Milos Tskitishvili 1
==============================================================================
December 7th, 2002
WBA 3-point Shoot Out
Round 1
Leon Berthelson 01102 11010 01100 11002 00110= 15
A.J. Schulz 01112 00000 01010 11112 00102= 16
Garth Donahue 11112 11112 10012 11112 11112= 28
Dexter Kodak 10110 11100 01000 01100 11102= 14
Joe Jones 10002 11102 11112 00012 01112= 22
Parker Mason 10110 01002 00012 10110 11110= 16
Jaxon McCall 11002 00100 10102 01012 00102= 16
Herman Burke 11110 10012 10012 01100 10112= 19
Emillio Brown 11102 11112 11102 11002 00010= 21
Buck Jones 11110 01112 00110 11102 01000= 17
Al Lee 11010 00100 00000 10110 00000= 7
Jeff Jackson 11110 11012 10112 10112 01112= 24
Wayne Taylor 10012 11100 11110 10002 11102= 19
John Stewart 01110 11100 01102 11112 00110= 18
Austyn Williams 11102 10110 01112 11112 00110= 21
Fred Hartman 01012 11112 00112 00012 11012= 22
Jerry Sims 00010 01002 00000 10000 00012= 8
Pat Stephenson 11102 01112 11102 00012 11012= 23
Jonathan Booth 01010 00100 01102 11110 01010= 13
Geroge Sewell 00110 01010 01012 01012 00012= 15
Dave Williams 11110 11110 01102 01102 11012= 21
Charlie Daidone 11010 11002 11112 01002 11010= 19
Derek Vinyard 01110 10012 10012 11012 10002= 19
Abdullah Chanda 10102 01102 10010 11012 10112= 20
Bill Andrews 01112 11112 00110 11012 11110= 22
Luke Benner 11002 10100 11110 10010 01112= 17
Bill Blackstone 01112 10112 10112 01012 01112= 24
Paul Wright 00112 01000 01110 00102 01110= 14
This round was very mixed in the performance that players put in. Al Lee and Jerry Sims shot some of the worst rounds in the 3-point Shootout history. On the other hand Garth Donahue put in the best score in the contests history.
Round 2
Garth Donahue 11110 11010 10112 01000 11010= 16
Joe Jones 10010 01010 10102 11000 10112= 15
Herman Burke 10102 01112 11110 10102 01110= 20
Emillio Brown 01110 11112 10002 11112 10112= 23
Jeff Jackson 10112 10112 11102 11102 01010= 22
Wayne Taylor 11112 11112 11112 11012 11112= 29
John Stewart 10112 00102 00110 11012 00000= 15
Austyn Williams 10012 11112 11012 11012 11102= 25
Fred Hartman 00010 11010 11112 00010 11002= 15
Pat Stephenson 11112 00102 10110 01102 10112= 21
Dave Williams 10112 10112 01110 10012 11012= 22
Charlie Daidone 00100 10012 00112 01112 11010= 17
Derek Vinyard 11112 00000 10000 11110 01000= 14
Abdullah Chanda 11100 11112 01112 11102 00100= 20
Bill Andrews 11110 10102 11112 11002 00110= 20
Bill Blackstone 11102 01112 11102 11002 11112= 25
Shoot off
Herman Burke 10102 01100 11112 10012 11112= 21
Abdullah Chanda 00112 11012 11010 11012 01010= 19
Bill Andrews 11110 00110 11112 10110 01100= 17
The biggest surprise of this round was the horrible shooting f Garth Donahue who set the record for the best round ever last round. The next biggest surpise was that Wayne Taylor set a new record for with 29 points.
Round 3
Herman Burke 10100 00012 00110 00110 11100= 12
Emillion Brown 11110 11112 11110 11110 10000= 19
Jeff Jackson 10112 11112 10112 01110 11110= 23
Wayne Taylor 11102 11112 11112 11102 01110= 25
Austyn Williams 10112 10112 11112 01112 01100= 23
Pat Stephenson 01002 10112 11002 11000 11112= 20
Dave Williams 01110 11112 11110 11110 11110= 21
Bill Blackstone 11110 11112 11112 10110 11112= 25
With the exception of Burke and Brown who suffered from a bad case of nerves this round was played at a very high level. Dave Williams has to be disappointed with his performance since he missed 4 of 5 money balls. In fact he only missed 5 balls over all but missed all the wrong shots.
Round 4
Jeff Jackson 10112 01110 10112 10010 10102= 19
Wayne Taylor 11112 11102 01002 10100 11010= 19
Austyn Williams 11112 01012 11112 10112 10102= 25
Bill Blackstone 00012 01112 10112 01000 11112= 20
Nerves were huge in this round. Only Willaims performed up to his standard. Blackstone was lucky to catch fire on the last rack and hit his last shot to go on the the final round.
Round 5
Austyn Williams 10112 11112 00110 01012 11100= 20
Bill Blackstone 11112 00102 01112 11102 00112= 23
Blackstone bounced back from a poor performance in Round 4. Williams on the otherhand had his worst round of the contest. Congradulations to Bill Blackstone the Season 6 Three point contest!
November 14th, 2002
Virgin Island's midseason Report
Half way thru the season... Virgin is not the team that stunned everyone last season... It seems as if Coach Williams has given up this group of men. Holt isn't having the stellar season promised... Him and Paul Wright have done nothing but bicker, and without VI having a pure point guard, it is even more difficult. They acquired Jeff Jackson, just get it over turned by the new rule in the WBA, but he could have only made so much of a difference. The play of rookies Andy Davis(now with Miami), Milos Tshi..., Storm Schmid, Donnie Sommers, and Jose Nobis, has help this team's season from falling totally apart. Coach Williams was sited saying that this season isn't as bad as seasons when they only won 8 games, but it looks that way for some reason... Those were the days when no names like Fred Bell would score 18 a game, and Damon Trout would dish out 9 to 10 assist... Damon is now a SCRUB and Fred is somewhere... Where is the heart of this Virgin Islands team. Even without a pure point guard, VI should be in the thick of it... Anybody can win any night in the East, VI is currently 9 games out of the playoffs, and hoping to turn this season around. It is possible, but Storm has to get more than 4 assists a game, his high for the season is only "6" and that hurts... Holt has to start shooting better and attacking the boards. VI got arrogant, got rid of Stub Madison, brought in anothe scorer and the team hasn't blossomed yet... Will they blossom and make something out of this season?! Seems as if Coach Williams is shuffling the line up... The follow players have had there seasons evaluated... Check out the grades....
Virgin Islands as a whole, This is the most offensive team they have ever had, but also the worst defensive team... As a team VI gets a letter of "D"
Starting FIVE
PG- Storm Schmid- has had some strong showings, shows that he can shoot the rock, but he is a point guard playing like a SG, and he isn't passing the ball effectively. He is a rookie and is trying to make a name for himself, he will make a bad name if he doesn't pass more. "C"
SG- Paul Wright - was carrying this team for the first 2 weeks of the season, but recently he has been out done by rookie Milos, but this isn't a knock on Paul, he has got to get more aggresive, and take it to the defense. He was acquired for his scoring abilities, but his fan base hasn't seen it yet... "D"
SF- Tyrell Hall - Hall has just gotten the starting position after Gary Agey and Andy Davis shared it, but they were both traded... Tyrell Hall is not doing a bad job, but his FG percentage is a thron in the butt... He was brought to this team for his stealing ability, and each game at the SF position he is just getting better... Look for him to have a strong second half... "C"
PF- Jose Nobis - Brought over from Miami, this position was held by Marty Williams, but Nobis can play at the same intensity as Marty and is 2mil cheaper, and has 3 years on his contract. His frist starting game he swatted away 5, not bad for a rookie... Seems as if VI has always had a strong shot blocker... Nobis is a gamble at this position especially when you have Rik Kist on the bench, but Nobis is ready for the second half... "B-"
C- George Holt - Talks of TRADE, yes this popular icon has only had one explosive game this season 55 on Brooklyn 2wks ago, and that is it... He has been rotated back and forth from PF to C, but he seems more comfortable in the Center position... His point average is down, but if VI had a passer, he would be doing aight... Can't give yourself an assist... He leads the team in all major categories (points, rebounds, and assists)... If someone would pass him the ball and let him get the easy layup with his altheicism... He would be a good candidate to put up 30 a night... But it starts with the point guard...
KEY BENCH PLAYERS...
VI isn't known for its bench but the following players have made strong contributions off the bench...
PG- Donnie Sommers- was Game MVP once, has lead the team in points scored on 3 occasions, high for the season 22 points, has also had 3 blocks in a game...
SG/SG- Milos Who?- Game MVP once... Even light up Washington for 32 points... Old man, with bad knees, but can shoot from the early morn to dust...
PF- Skyler Peyton - Strong preseason, but regulars season has been as strong, look for him to get more playing time...
C- Rik Kist - Has seen rare playing time, but makes it worth the team's time to put him in the game... He will get more playing time at the PF position....
Duds...
Rod Lawrence, hasn't been getting the time to play and when he does, he isn't playing ... Rod will be traded soon, or even released... Hasn't produced the way he did two season ago when he started for VI in the SF position... Buh Bye Rod...
And the proposed starting five for the second part of the season....
PG- Storm Schmid sharing time with Donnie Sommers
SG- Paul Wright
SF- Tyrell Hall sharing time with Nick Bavos
PF- Jose Nobis sharing time with Skyler Peyton
C - George Holt sharing time with Rik Kist
October 24th, 2002
As The WBA Turns: Surprises and Disappointments
Teams
Disappointments:
1-Colorado: The champs are playing .500 ball and struggling, maybe now we know why Marc wanted to buy another team last season...But this team should improve with mr. Hameleers gm skills.
2-Roswell: They had a big offseason, but it doesn't seem to be working out very well in Roswell. We have heard a lot from their owner during preseaon, but he has been very quiet since...
3-SLC: Rumors are that team is loosing games on purpose...Too much talent on that team not to make the playoffs in the weak western conference, but that might not be their goal. Or maybe John Davis has polluted yet another locker room?
4-Brooklyn: Well, they have been playing better as of late, and are used to starting off slow. But they lost many games they shouldn't have, and they need to solve their PG problems. But I still expect them to get back to high level of play.
5-Gabon: Another team who has played better the last couple of games. Their 3 main weapons on offense are shooting below 40%, while the defense, wich used to be the best one in the league, isn't that dominating this season.
Surprises
1-Oregon: Gonzalez has a better supporting cast, and its showing. They are the team to beat in the western conference.
2-London: We all knew they were good, but they are dominating.
3-Texas: This team is finally playing well, they have a solid group of players that seem to work well together.
4-Utah: This young team is playing .500 ball, but they are in the western conference. They should improve a lot nect season with all that money to spend.
5-Capetown: They won 3 games!!
Individual
Disappointments
1-Gommer Cummings: Had his starting spot taking over by Dominik Lang and his backup job by Henry Jordan.
2-Bucky Mcarthy: Never got back to his season 3 form, where he was one of the league's best guards.
3-Gary Agey: His stats are all down from his rookie season
4-Pete Merritt: Signed to near 8 millions per season, hes expected to produce more.
5-Wes Ford: Hasn't made too many headlines this season, maybe due to the fact that hes playing in SLC and getting less media coverage.
Surprises
1-Reynaldo Deangelo: London has the PF they needed. Deangelo is a great adition, he does the little things that help this team win. He passes, rebounds, shoots relatively well and plays solid defense, the perfect fit for London.
2-George Foster: This veteran is having a career year in texas, shooting well, passing and playing defense. One of the main reasons why Texas is playing so well.
3-Bill Rainwater: Has adapted well to his new SG position, and is one of the league's top scorers.
4-Lou Gonzlez: He is amazing. This guy has stepped up his game and carried his team to the top of the western conference with the help of a better supporting cast.
5-Jack Spiegel: Maybe the lone bright spot on this team, is playing well and has shown improvement over last season.
Have asked to be traded?
1-Omar Jefferson: Too much talent to be sitting on the bench. this 19 year old needs to play, many lowly teams could do with his turnovers and low FG%.
2-Jose Nobis: Playing behind a player many consider to be less good than he is.
3-Jerry Dickenson: This solid PF/C is playing behind Roger Bradshaw and not getting too much playing time.
4-Mike Sewell: Versatile SF is warming up the bench in Montana.
5-Lonnie Gerson: Another rookie who needs playing time to develop, but hasn't seen so much court time yet.
August 31st, 2001
First Look at the Future:
By Zagrieb Zano
The Rookie Review sponsored by Rochester has begun. All the draft picks have been assigned to teams to give us a peak on how good these players really are. Let us not get ahead of our selves and believe that those who shine during the review will be able to do so when they are faced against the WBA best. Nevertheless, we can get an idea of who were good picks and who were not. The top 10 players picked in the draft were all considered to be one of the top drafting classes within recent memory.
1. Dave Troychak - Playing for the Cougars, the Miami top pick did not disappoint as he displayed his offensive ability showing why he is the GCBA all-time leading scorer. Going 6-11 from the field and 5-7 from the line, Troychak's 17 points helped to pace his team to victory. He only had two assists but Dave has always been a shoot first player. DT showed his defense with 3 steals and generally showed why he was the top pick.
2. Mark Miller - Miller had a shaky start missing his first 8 shots but then he settled down and just played hard going 5-10 the rest of the way. He would have scored more had fellow Eagle teammate Keith Douglas have dished him the ball on several fast break attempts instead of trying to keep it himself. Miller had 7 boards, 3 blocks and 2 steals. He showed that even with a bad shooting night, he is able to many other things to help the team win.
3. Jimmy Whalen - Nothing spectacular for this Vojvodina Alum. He did control the pace of the game fairly well, and had some good passing but his teammates simply were not hitting his shots. He showed the type of leadership you want in a PG, but lets see how he plays when his teammates can make their shots.
4.John Gaiser - John had a very solid game before fouling out. with 8 assists 1 block and 2 steals combined with 7 points an overall good game. He will need to be less anxious trying to show his defensive prowess, but he made some spectacular passes through out the game. One of which was an alley-oop pass from the 3-point line with Jose Nobis spinning around Mike Bennett.
5. Emmett Yee - Averaging over 32 ppg in college, apparently when you play against the best off the college players it isn't as easy. Shooting a dismal 4-17 for a meager 8 points, some speculate that Yee could be a bust. Shortly after the game, a representative of Colorado released a statement, " Yee has been having some pain in his feet, and has been diagnosed with Bone Spurs.They are not severe enough to prevent him from playing, but will definitely affect his game. We expect that he will have surgery after this season to see if he will be able to play up to his potential."
6. Harold Gil - A very solid game Harold. Knocking down 14 points and dishing out 4 assists. SLC was also very proud of defensive ability that didn't show up much in the stat sheets but showed his hustle. He was also hit with a Technical Foul, which is something SLC likes to see in their players.
7. Al Lee - Team up with former college teammate Harold Gil, Lee did his thing by controlling the boards. He snagged 11 of them along with 4 assists. Lee didn't shoot as much as he could have, but Lee is a guy that makes the team play better.
8. John Diblasi - Having been named the Championship tourney MVP in college John expected big things. But he had an utter disappointing game in which he basically too up 20 minutes and did nothing very productive. Gabon execs are hoping this was simply an issue of 1st game jitters.
9. Keith Douglas - Keith had a decent game with 8 assists, but also had 4 turnovers. Heralded by some as a top three PG, He didn't control the flow of the game like he would at Amsterdam, and he simply refused to pass to Miller. One can only assume with them being Archrivals in college this was the reasoning. Varese might want to make sure they only acquire players that Douglas likes; otherwise this headcase could be a distraction.
10. Jose Nobis - Many felt Miami made a mistake taking Nobis over Mike Bennett. Though it would see the Miami GM knew something that others didn't. Nobis simply abused Bennett on his way game high 18 points and
11 rebound with 1 block and 4 steals and was one of two players with a double double for the day. A big man who can Score, Rebound and play great Defense.... yeah, that sounds like a NE Moscow alum to me.
Overall some pretty good performances by the top ten draftees. But there are some who went later in the draft that pulled off some pretty good performances. There were 52 players in the draft selected. How is it possible that teams could have passed on Elvin Sanders? Elvin out to prove that people made a mistake and he was fabulous in his first game. Shooting a blistering 12-16 from the field for 24 points to lead all rookies on the first day. True he didn't do much else, but 24 points is 24 points.
Samson Reeves was one of the people who was a top ten talent but was taken by Omaha in the 2nd round. He shot 70% from the floor and scored 18 points. He has always been more of a scorer then a defensive player. Does anybody wonder why Omaha got an A draft grade? Bob Towe is another 2nd round pick that is trying to show he is a first round talent. With 18 points 7 rebounds he was one of the bright spots for the Eagles.
Budapest is going to wish they would kept the rights Bob, but now Boston is smiling with glee. He will need to work on his ball handling skills after 4 turnovers, however, he should be a solid player.
There were some other intriguing performances through out the day. Omar Jefferson the high schooler from Milipitas High School in California showed he could score with a team high 17 points. He also dished out 8 assists, however those are negated with having 8 of the teams 16 turnovers. Omar will not like Lou Gonzalez getting on his case if he is getting that many turnovers a game. Lonnie Gerson could have have been a top ten pick, and perhaps he should have after having a 16 point, 7 rebound 3 steal performance. Brett Moyer is looking to earn starter minutes for Birmingham. With 16 points, 4 assists, 1 block and 2 steals, he could very well do just that. Karl Maloney not happy about being drafted in the 2nd round put in a solid performance going 6-12 for 14 points and had 2 steals. There are others who deserve being mentioned that will not be in this instance.
Who could be the potential top ten busts of this draft?
Emmett Yee of Amsterdam - 8 points on 4-17 shooting just doesn't get it done.
John Diblasi of Amsterdam - 3 points 2 rebs and 4 turnovers. No, you're not in Amsterdam any more.
Keith Douglas of Amsterdam - 7 points 8 assists but 4 turnovers. Keith you need to pass to all your teammates.
Jimmy Whalen of Vojvodina - 9 points 5 assists. He was supposed to be the top pure PG, of course passing to Yee today meant a missed shot.
Amsterdam has recently started a recruiting campaign that indicates if you go to Amsterdam you will be a top ten pick. One has to wonder if they will try to remove the moniker that some have added to slogan. If you go to Amsterdam you will be a top ten pick and a bust in the draft.
August 23rd, 2002
News Flash from Capetown
16JJeff Bailey and Jimmy Walters are the first casualties of the new management. Today they were both cut. Bailey refussed to comment.
August 21st, 2002
Bob Towe
Budapest has a ful roster and as a result has decided not to sign their second round draft pick Bob Towe. Towe was considered by some to be an excellent second round draft pick but Budapest just doesn't have space for him.
August 20th, 2002
Making the Draft Grade.
Draft Analysis
by Zagrieb Zano
It has been only a few short hours since since the draft at the time of this writing. not having slept more then 2 hours in the last 48, I have literally become exhausted by the draft. Every year there are a few surprise moves that make people have the gaping mouth shock look with a terrific pick. There are also those teams who would cause the giggelings of their counterparts at a bold pick ... so bold it shouldn't have been done.
There are winners and losers in the deaft. While it is true my point of view is merely one subjective look on how these picks help a team. Class is now in session, and I do grade on a curve so listen up Owners and GM's.
Western Conference
Pacific Division
Colorado Pioneers
They recently resigned Heiko Van Brandt who is one of the top small forwards in the game. With the imminent exodus of Kevon Duke, Cristobal Dasher and Pete Merritt, one has to wonder why Emmett Yee who is a pure SF would be the top pick for this club,it is obvious that there is a sentimental feeling towards Yee.. Gil was available and is a better player over all and can play the SG spot. Colorado traded away a 1st round pick in order to grab Bob Price in the 2nd round, this was a very good move and Bob could get some significant minutes at the 5 spot.
Grade C+
Oregon Golden Bears
After resigning Lou Gonzales and sending Joe Jones to Varese in exchange for Ed Kane, this team really needed to get a SG. But they were one pick too late to get Gil who was very high on their priority list. hey selected Al Lee as they believe they will be losing Bill Rainwater. Al Lee is a very good player but he is a 3/4 and so didn't solve gaping hole at the SG spot. With the 27th pick overall they took youngster Omar Jefferson the 19 year old hot shot out of Milipitas High, CA. This guy has about as much ball control of Parker Mason with out the passing ability. And he is a shooter ... just isn't good at making them often. After a few years of WBA experience he could be very good. he plays the 1/2 but you don't want him handeling the ball because he will lose it a ton, and you don't want him at the 2 shooting. Omar should've been a late 2nd round pick.
Grade D
Nebraska Sun Warriors
Nebraska originally had the 18th pick but gave up something like 9 picks to move up to #6. And then paid an additional 2.5 mil plus the 6th pick to take Jimmy Whalen. I sure hope this guy was worth all that, talk about entering the pressure cooker. Whalen should be fine and he is exactly what this team needed. He is considered the top pure point guard in the draft. With the 21st pick he selected Trent Jordan thanks to the suggestion of a consulting firm he hired that is owned by the SLC Owner. Trent could have gone earlier and should have, but this is a excellent pick. Using the 37th pick to select Ramiro Watts. This is on the one black mark .. or maybe slightly greyish black mark of Nebraska. While they insist this is who they wanted all along, that is probably the words of their good PR people. If not, then we have to ask, why Ramiro, he is lazy, out of shape, and is not a good team defensive player. But at 7' 3" you get a lot of rebounds, and some blocks, so I guess that is the reasoning.
Grade B
Roswell XT
With only a mid 2nd round pick, it would be difficult for Roswell to improve their team. Roswell managed to do just that. With the selection of Columbus Dasher they grabbed a solid PF one who would have gone in the 1st round if he was more inclined to shoot. It is just too bad they had traded away their first round pick, because they would have gotten a higher score for sure.
Grade C+
California Hellcats
It is very difficult to wait til the 2nd round before you are able to draft people. And when your a up and coming team, it is difficult keep that momentum with no first round picks and you lose your top SG for the year to drugs. Picking Anne Vondeling was not the wisest of choices, but they made up for with the selection of Junior Bailey. This team may easily take a step back this season until Elkington can return.
Montana Knights
Montana have squandered away any picks they had for this season will not be improving much this year. At least they weren't able to make bad draft choices.
Grade Incomplete
Utah Highlanders
Utah is slowly but surely putting together a team that is going to cause fear in the hearts of their enemies. By selecting the best overall player in the draft in Mark Miller, They are getting all the pieces put together. Elias Vandyk is a very solid pick #30 and should back up Walt Rodgers at the SG spot assuming Rodgers is resigned. Selecting Kevin Mills with the #34 pick didn't make a lot of sence after getting Vandyk. They are similar players, and this pick probably should have been used to get a backup Center. Overall a very solid draft.
Grade B-
Midwest Division
Cancun Outlaws
With 3 late 2nd round picks the Cancun Management had little to work with, but they came out smiling be the time the day was done. Wilson Callaway PF, Dan Castle SF and Pat Herget C are all very good players considering what was left. Cancun may have just filled the puzzle needed to make it to the Finals this season. Cancun would have a slightly hire grade if they hadn't told me to shut up during that draft after one of my comical whitisims I shared.
Grade B
Cinncinati Cyclones
Cincy's only need was a PG, with the #13 pick they would take Brandon Sandler which is a pretty good PG. however, considering the inexplicable fall of Charlie Daidone it just wasn't a logical choice to take Sandler over Daidone. Typically you always want to take the best player available for the position your looking to fill. Cincy didn't do that. Keith Krause was a very good pick up late in the 2nd round, though he is a bit undersized to play on the blocks against the WBA's best.
Grade C
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake was the lucky lottery winner by getting the 3rd pick. And while they would have been content to select Whalen they really had their eye on Harold Gil, but wouldn't be able to justify taking him with the 3rd pick. They were more then happy to trade their pick for the 6th pick and get some cash in the process plus still get Gil. They were hoping to draft Karl Maloney for sentimental reasons in the 2nd round but Albacete took him just a couple picks earlier. So their second choice was Johnathon Booth who will be a nice backup Diaz.
Grade B-
Texas Juggers
Having traded away all their picks this team has put them self in a bind as they haven't been able to compete for the playoffs depsite the fact that they are a good team. They are kicking themselves for giving SLC their 1st round pick for this season with it being the 3rd overall. Oh how they would have loved to have Whalen.
Grade Incomplete
Omaha Wild
With a new team nickname, the changes to the roser for Omaha are going to be very good ones. Yes they did miss out on Whalen but John Gaiser despite being illiterate can play basketball among the best of them, and Frank Rose will be happy to have somebody good at the point to help take the load off of him. Taking Samson Reeves with the #35 pick is an absolute steal, need we forget that Samson averaged 23 ppg his senior year behind only Emmet Yee and Dave Troychak. And he falls to the 2nd round. Holy Cow! With the selection of Ellis Law for the #47 pick and this draft was completely good for Omaha. They made the best with what they had, This team could now challange for a lower playoff seed.
Grade A
Capetown Bandits
Frankly, Capetown is in bad shape. This is not to fault the current ownership who recently purchased the fouldering organization. They will be a bad team this year, but at least they got a pretty good player in Bob Kinsey considering they only had the #52 pick. If the new ownership can resist taking over priced players from top teams and giving up draft picks and money in exchange, then they will be ok... just not this year.
Grade C-
Miami Xtreme
Anytime you get the #1 overall pick and have the #10 pick then your going to typically have a good draft. Selecting Troychak was a no-brainer, especially for a team that doesn't have a point guard good enough to play on the colligiate level. They wanted John Diblasi with the 10 pick but he was taken 2 spots sooner. So then the choice was between Mike Bennett and Jose Nobis. Basically it came down to health concerns that caused Miami to take Nobis over Bennett, making Nobis the 4th big man from NE Moscow to be taken in the top 10 in the last couple seasons. They traded their 2nd round pick away in a deal that included Mike Reardon who will be able to help Troychak adjust at the pg spot.
Grade A
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division
London Disco
With only 1 they orginally had the 17th overall pick but then swapped with Varese along with getting a couple of 2nd rounders for the future. Everybody and their pond scum knew that London needed a PF and the only one that would be worthy of a late first round pick was Gabriel Keniry. If they would have kept their original pick they would have been able to snag Trent Jordan who surprisingly hadn't been picked. Especially considering that London is considered a soft team on the rebounds, Jordan would have help quite a bit in that area along side Colbert. London should make a very strong push to make it to the finals, but they will wish they had Jordan who is a Clutch player instead of the underachieving Keniry.
Grade C-
Gabon Giants
Gabon has some immediate needs, in the never ending search of a quality center, this years winner was John Diblasi. Diblasi may be the guy Gabon has wanted for the past couple seasons. He is undubadibly the top low post man. With Derek Vinyard signed to a long term deal, it is not known why Edwards was selected as he plays the same position. But Edwards is a good player and should probably find some minutes at the 3 or 4. Art Marchese is a very nice pickup considering that 52 other players were slected ahead of him. He was taken in the even that Gabon can't resign Leon Berthleson which some experts indicate will not be possible.
Grade A-
Budapest Tigers
John Riddle wasn't expected to retire and Budapest will miss his ability to score and get the calsl that all great players get. Even so, Budapest has a crowded front court where T.J. McFarland and Ossie Gordon will eat up most of the minutes. Choosing Mike Bennett isn't a completely bad idea as he is a top notch player and a good pick to get him in the mid round. But handful of other players who play the 2 or 3 spot available it would appear getting a backup in those areas would have been a better idea. using the #36 pick to grab Bob Towe is a excellent move, he will be able to backup Bennie Armstrong for a year or two. But don't be surprised if Budapest tries Bob out at the 3 spot as well.
Grade B
Albacete Burning Hell
Albacete's biggest weakness was point guard play and while they were primed to select one with the #6 pick, they found it more advantageous to make a deal with Nebraska that would give him around 4 picks, Brandon's first born and 51% of his soul and he must now refer to Pedro as His Daddy! He would then select Michael Kutak who's only glaring weakness is ball control. Selecting Karl Maloney early in the 2nd round is a pretty good pick, though some believe Maloney went around 10 picks too early. Andy Dilbert is a good late 2nd round pick, he can rebound, play defense though will often get his caught with his hand in the cookie jar.
Grade B+ <Anytime you get majority control of someones soul you get bonus points>
Boston Massacre
Only having 5 guys who can play at the 1 spot leaves you with a gaping hole thus making Boston's top priority to pick a point guard. Ok in all fairness only 1 of the 5 PG's are under contract, and they plan on resigning Williams. With Charlie Daidone falling into his lap Massacre owner Corey Bowen was so happy he almost had a large accident. Fortunatly he contained most of the excitement and personally when over to the Cincy management for foolishing passing on the top 10 player. Better year for Boston is they only have to pay him Two Milion. Yes, Boston got the biggest steal of the draft.To bad they didn't have any other picks to help them get back to the elite level.
Grade B
Rochester Blaze
Rochestor didn't have any picks, and so typically that would result in a incomplete grade. However, Dave was trying to get somebody to take the overpriced Frank Fitzgerald in order to get a pick. That is about as bad as passing cheat on a day that doesn't have a test scheduled.
Grade F <F is for Frank>
Varese Roosters
Why would you trade your star PG Ed Kane in exchange for Stud SG Joe Jones? Simple, because your going to draft Keith Douglas one of the top PG's in the draft. Why do you draft Charles Cushman when you have 7 of your 14 players who can play Center? Simple, because your not going to resign some of them, and Cushman is going to be their top center. Why do you draft Clarence Collins when you have Chuck O'Rouke playign the PF spot? Simple, because Collins can play the 5 spot and might end up being better then Cushman. Why do you draft Gilbert Silverstone with the 50th pick potentially giving you 9 of your 14 players who can play the Center spot? Simple. Varese has a fetish for centers? Varese would have been better off taking a SF with their #20 pick, as that is where they are weakest depth wise. Grabbing 3 more players who are can play the 5 spot just didn't make a lot of sense, but they grabbed some pretty good guys at least.
Grade C+ <Because you can apparently not have too many centers.>
Mid-Atlantic Division
Washington Monuments
Washington is about as balanced of team as you can get, it is almost like a perfect circle. They have good depth and don't have any pressing needs. With their only pick grabbing Bud Bock is a solid move as the guy will help on defense, rebound and even score. The only downside is his lack of ability to get to the line.
Grade B-
Brooklyn Rage
The hype was there who would be the fateful PG project, that he would try to act like a defense lawyer in rationalizing those horrocious selections. But at the last traded them away to Varese to avoid the ridicule and merited jokes that would be headed away. The Rage unfortunatly don't qualify for the Incomplete grade as they lose points for allowing Varese to get 3 centers with all his picks. And for not giving the media somethign to mock his latest PG project. Now we will need use other reasons for the mocking.
Grade F <Draft a freakin' PG for us... Throw us a bone Rondall.>
Virgin Island
After having their most successful season in team history, some of my fellow associates predicted they would make some less then desirable picks instead of selecting the players they need to improve on last years impressive season. I rebuked them in their arrogance and told them this is not the VI of old. Case in point, Selecting Storm Schmid was a terrific choice with the #16 pick to replace the departured Mike Reardon. However, my fellow journalists won round two when they VI selected Milos Tskitishvilinilis ... eh Tsktisishivilinis ... eh Milos. I am all for taking foriegn players, but when they are 26 and are injury prone and really are not that good, I am not for taking that kind of player. Alas, I had the last laugh, as VI selected Skyler Peyton at #46. The only bad thing about this pick is they can't sign him for a 2 year deal. With Vi doing well with 2 of their 3 picks they have continued to impress those of us who believe they can compete in the east.
Grade B- <Tskitishvililinisi... eh Milos Thompson.>
Baltimore Sentinels
Having the 11 and 12 picks is a nice way to prepare for the draft. They needed a SG and taking Bert Haug is a good pick at but he isn't going to do much on defense, still, no problem with that pick. As the commishioner read the next pick my jaw dropped as did many of the owners with exception of a select few, who were giggeling. Roy Houle! I do agree he is a good rebounder and plays some fine defense. But when you have a guy who scores points based off the theory that you can't miss them all you don't waste the 12th pick on a guy who will should go in the early portion of the 2nd round. So you lose bonus points for that inauspicious choice. Some points are regained with a nice pick in Bob Kaplan, he is a great passer and will get to the line. But then the most horrid move of the draft. Trading the #39 pick to the Defending Champion Pioneers so he can take Bob Price. There is a unwritten rule amongst owners that you do what ever you can to avoid helping out the defending champions. Plus there is a rule in the league bylaws that specifically state any deliberate or accidental assistance to improve the Colorado Pioneers requires grave penalty up to and not limited to loss of your first round pick for the next 3 seasons.
Grade D
Grade D- <Houle just had another 2 for 19 shooting -game>
New York Firestorm
All eyes were adjusted to see who would be the first rookie selected by the trade happy Firestorm. The Firestorm actually picked a very good player in Dontae Evans. Though there was a odd moment when Dontae came to the podium wearing a Roswell XT hat. It is unclear if that is where he expects to be traded to or if that is where he wants to go.With the last pick of the draft, NY selected Donte Lord who will be the key to bringing this team up to mediocrity. Colorado will rue the day they let this pick slip out of their hands and eventually belong to NY ... but I digress.
Grade C+
Carolina Storm
Carolina had a very good draft beginning with Lonnie Gerson who is easily reffered to as the single best defensive player in the draft. Let us not blindly forget that he also averaged 15 ppg his senior season. Carolina was offensive again wtih the selection of Dijon Johnson the top 3 point shooter in the draft. And with around 17 million in cap to work with after signing these rookies, Carolina could be able to take advantage of the many cap strapped teams to steal 2 or maybe 3 top notch players.
Grade A
Birmingham Blues
Lance Armstrong and Brett Moyer is a nice pickup for a team that ... well let's be honest here ... they as a team are as about as valuable as the actual sweat found on a baboon's backside. Though the new ownership will have it rough, there is light at the end of the dump heap, and while they won't contend for a title this year. Next year..... well maybe not next year.. but the year after that... well you get the idea.. They will be singing the blues this season ... sorry for the cliche but it is true.
Grade B
August 16th, 2002
PTS Digest
Mock Draft - Hope for the future
By Zagrieb Zano.
Silly! Why is it that being a renowned journalist that the powers that be ask for this? This being the Mock Draft. As if one person can actually look into the minds of the leagues 28 owners who all have their strategy and this notion that one could do this being absurd as it is a scary idea to do, as most of the owners I frankly don't want to get into their mind. Here I am at 2 am perusing of the vast amount of scouting reports and analysis to make some sense to the madness that is DRAFT DAY! Granted by this time tomorrow we will see deals that no one could foresee, and picks that make the fans think ... What the hell were they thinking? There will be those who feel they got the STEAL of the draft, until that player doesn't perform as expected. This year the draft is pretty solid and while there is a significant talent left drop once Troychak, Miller and Whelan are removed quickly, those teams with picks 4-15 will very much enjoy whom they get.
Twenty-four hours from now the powers that be will indefinitely be requiring that I do a post draft analysis on who made the right moves and who shouldn't be allowed to make moves. That is another nightmare that at least I can put off for a few hours.
Pick 1
Miami - Decisions ... Decisions. Do you pick the Top scoring player in GCBA history, or take the overall best player? Considering they have a solid PF, it makes sense to take GCBA's All-Time Top scorer. Troychak will energize the Miami fans, and make this team worth mentioning throughout the league. Granted any mention of Miami will likely include, " Man that Troychak is a terrific rookie if only he could get on a good team."
Pick 2
Utah - While they would have preferred the top spot and take Troychak they can't complain about getting the most taletened player overall. Mark Miller bar none the best big man in the draft. He will get plenty of playing time right next to Corrigan who will slide to the 3 spot permanently. Mark Miller is for this struggling franchise a nice cortisone shot in the arm. Considering that Simpson will be passing the ball to both Corrigan and Miller, this could be one of the funniest young tandems to watch, as they slowly become superstars.
Pick 3
Salt Lake City <From Texas> - In a shocking turn of events SLC will be able to go a couple different directions. They don't need a point guard, but when you can grab a guy like Jimmy Whalen, that is awfully difficult to pass up. SLC also has hinted that Emmett Yee may be in line, as he would be a nice backup to Camron Diaz. Any player who can put up 57 points in a college game he is definitely going to be considered strongly. There is also a possibility that SLC will sign and trade that player. Recent reports have indicated they have strongly considered several offers made for the pick.
Pick 4
Omaha <From Chacarita> - The groan of disappointment from all Omaha fans could be heard when they found out that they wouldn't have the #3 pick. They desperately need a PG, and Jimmy Whalen would make this team 100% better. He alone would gain the team 10-15 more wins. As it is now, they desperately need to either trade up, or try to convince SLC to take Yee over Whalen. Assuming Whalen is selected, they will either John Gaiser the illiterate alum of Chesapeake University. He is a good player but not a great PG like Troychak or Whalen. Omaha could also consider taking Yee to boost their offensive output, and look for a PG in the free agency period.
Pick 5
Colorado <From Capetown> - Is there any doubt that GM Hameleers will pas up on Amsterdam star Emmett Yee? Yee can score, but he is one-dimensional. Colorado will draft him if for no other reason to prove that he is going to be a top WBA player. For most teams Yee would be an excellent scorer, but with the surrounding cast of Colorado, Yee could fool a lot of people and be the star that a select few believe he will be. Don't be surprised if Yee averages 20-22 points if given significant minutes.
Pick 6
Nebraska <From Carolina> - They gave up way too much for this pick all in effort to get a quality point guard to replace the soon to be gone Kodak. The only problem is, of the most likely candidates there may not be a PG worthy of the #6 pick. The two most likely candidates will be Siberia's Charlie Daidone and Amsterdam's Keith Douglas. . Traditional logic would say take Daidone who is an overall better player then Douglas. The only significant abilities of Douglas that are more impressive is his passing ability, which might be enough reason to take him. Nebraska could take Sandler this early but that would just be a bad move for the 6th pick. Overall Traditional Logic should prevail and Daidone will escape the desolation of Siberia and join a new form of Desolation known as the mid west.
Pick 7
Oregon <From Omaha> - There is no secret that they covet Jimmy Whalen and after an embarrassing first round lost to lower seed Nebraska they need to get a good PG and they need one NOW! Well at least that was until they made a blockbuster move that sent Joe Jones to Varese in exchange for Ed Kane. So now they need to find somebody to replace Jones. They will take a man who never found a three point shot he didn't like in Dijon Johnson.
Pick 8
Gabon <From New York> - Gabon simply looking to strengthen their bench will get a nice gem here with Bert Haug of Langepas. Bert may not start for the Giants, but after a 1st round loss to Albacete, They need to strengthen their scoring. The fact that Haug is a top-notch defensive player just makes him a perfect fit for Gabon.
Pick 9
Varese - Varese may be one of the few teams glad to see SLC get a high pick, because that means they can pick up Harold Gil. He can score at will; he rebounds incredibly well for a 2/3 player. He passes, He plays defense, and he gets in bar room brawls after games. He will fit in Varese just fine thank you very much. Though He could be taken with the 7th pick in which case he would take Dijon Johnson.
Pick 10
Miami <From Montana> - Having secured the Top PG with the #1 overall pick, they will look to get a nice backup for the ageless Mike Begley. There are several quality Centers in the draft, and Craig Bradshaw would be first on that list had he left his dismal college early. He will take Mike Bennett of Cancun, despite being injury prone he will be a terrific pick up. Plus he will have a couple years to be able to groom his skills under Begley's tutelage that is expected to retire at the age of 45.
Pick 11
Baltimore - With the first of two back-to-back picks, Baltimore needs to give them some players that will give them some form of identity. With them being a very poor rebounding team, they will get a good rebounder in Jose Nobis of NE Moscow. This Radiator graduate will press Former All-star Larry Chapman for a lot of quality minutes. He comes from a school that knows how to train quality big men. He has the fundamentals and is the best Defensive center in the draft, and the fact that he is a top-notch rebounder who can score; he is exactly what Baltimore needs to get back to the glory season of 2 seasons ago.
Pick 12
Baltimore <From Virgin Islands> - Baltimore will be able to bolster their small forward spot by taking Al Lee from Langepas. Al averaged around 20 points a game, and is a very strong rebounder and defender. There is questions about if he can create is own shot at the WBA level, but he has so much upside he will be a steal at the 12th pick. He will find some valuable minutes and the fact that he can play the 4 spot is a nice bonus as well.
Pick 13
Cincinnati <From Salt Lake City> - When they acquired this pick, they thought it would be a lottery pick, as it is now, they will likely try to trade this pick for future pick in next years draft. If they do pick a player they will grab a PG, it would be Keith Douglas of Amsterdam. Some believe they could take Brandon Sandler of Midwest, but knowing that guards at that school are not traditionally developed into WBA level quality, it just wouldn't be a wise choice. Then they will need to move somebody off their team as none of players end their contracts this year.
Pick 14
Carolina < from California> - They need to get some big time rebounding to help out injury prone Gus Rizzolo. Enter Fernando Edwards of the scandalous Philadelphia U. Fernando is a monster rebounder who can score and get to the foul line. His individual defensive skills are par, but he is a very good helper on defense. This will allow Rizzolo to play full time at the 4 spot where he feels most comfortable.
Pick 15
Boston <From Roswell> - Lance Armstrong of Somerset will be a nice fit for a very good Boston team. He will be able to play quality backup minutes behind Jerry Kumachik. He can score, but he is a huge rebounder and is a great passer for a SF. He could be one of the steals of this draft.
Pick 16
Virgin Islands <From Rochester> V.I. needs a flat out scorer, and Samson Reeves fits that mold. He is an outstanding rebounder and a very good shot blocker. As part of the Trio attacked employed by Langepas Samson was the main man. While Gary Agey was one of the bright spots as a top-notch rookie, Reeves could be even better. And it will give Coach Williams a stronger frontline that the team really lacks.
Pick 17
Varese <From Nebraska> - Needing to shore up their lack of defensive ability they will take the best defensive player left. Surprised that he fell this far, Lonnie Gerson of Buenos Aires will make one of the top defensive teams even better. Lonnie could very easily be a top 10 pick if it wasn't for the fact that people believe he is only a defensive player who averaged a GCBA record 6.28 steals per game. Let us not forget that he averaged around 15 points a game as well. He would be a huge steal this late in the draft. Which is all Brooklyn needs to get back to the elite.
Pick 18
Nebraska <From Boston> - With out much signing room they traded down and suckered Nebraska quite a bit. They didn't want to keep the 6th pick because of cap reasons. They will possibly look to move this pick as well if not they will select Mid West's floor general in Brandon Sandler. They believe that Brandon has a great desire to win even if he has flaws, he will and drive to be a winner will overshadow the downside.
Pick 19
Budapest <From Oregon> Budapest, would like to trade this pick, they could use a backup 1/2 player and Cancun's Storm Schmid would improve this team quite a bit. Not only can get to the free throw line, and nail the 3 pointers, but he is a rebounding guard. Budapest has tons of rebounders, and this would make them the best rebounding team in the league. Schmid is good in several areas, but he is not utterly bad in any particular area.
Pick 20
Varese <From Albacete> - It's that time when Brooklyn once again chooses a project PG who will more then likely not turn out. This may be the year that we can forget about past draftees like Mike Stanley, Justin Krueger and *GASP* Paris Atkins. Brooklyn should have known that a guy named Paris just doesn't have the competitive fire to be a legitimate WBA player. This year he will go with Donnie Sommers of the Williams Warthogs. Donnie should backup Justin for a year, but will eventually take the starting job. Well, except they traded him, Varese will need to replace the departed Kane and will take Donnie instead.
Pick 21
Nebraska <From Budapest> - For those of you who thought Nebraska would even consider not drafting a guy who liked to take 3 point shots, quickly slam the palm of your hand against your forehead and yell DOH! That just isn't going to happen, the Sun Warriors are looking for depth here, and Trent Jordan of the GIT Champion Loyola Tech team is that man. Trent will be able to back up Roy Base and be very effective for Nebraska.
Pick 22
London <From Brooklyn> - If there is a weakness on London it would have to be at the PF spot. There are very few quality PF's in this draft, and so Dave will jump all over Gabriel Keniry of Westside Tech. He was an underachiever as a senior, but his upside is just so incredibly high. He can score; Rebounding is a strong suit for him. He has very few weaknesses even if he has only a couple of spectacular abilities.
Pick 23
Carolina <From Cincinnati> - Dennis will be pleasantly surprised to see GCBA Tourney MVP John Diblasi of the Amsterdam Hamsters slip this far. He has all the tools to be a top-notch center in the WBA. I might not be a star right away but after a couple years at the WBA level, all the top players will hate going against his defensive prowess.
Pick 24
Birmingham <From Washington> - They need a big man who can play more then a handful of minutes, who can work well with Bernie Cobb. Columbus Dasher who was a study partner of John Gaiser at Chesapeake is the man for them. He can do a lot of things well, and a couple things really well. He looks to help his team out first before just scoring himself, something his older brother Devon prefers to do instead. The fact that he can't read is moot.
Pick 25
Gabon - With the possibility of losing their Star PG in Otto Hameleers to the free agent market. They will draft for some insurance that they have some form of a pg. Fortunately the only good alum of Great Plains University will still be available. Michael Kutak has quietly become good in about every area you could possibly imagine. He can score, pass, rebound, defend, blue dart. You name it he can do it. There is a question with his flashy personality as he is sometimes guilty of more turnovers then one should be.
Pick 26
Washington (From Cancun) - Another very successful season despite falling short of defending their title, this is a team that will be good for years to come. Although Aaron Black will be the starter for this team for quite sometime, regardless they will snag Philly SF Fernando Edwards. He is a solid defender and a solid all around player who can rebound amongst the best. He will be a very solid edition for the Monuments.
Pick 27
Oregon (From London) - With out needing any more big men, they will try to bolster their secondary ranks at the shooting guard. They will do that with a pure scorer from the Utah Mountainmen. Kevin Mills who often could be seen at the Sun Bar in SLC, will have to find a similar hang out in Oregon which shouldn't be difficult. He has been known to visit the hospital more then one would like, but he is still a very solid player. Mills is a good enough player he could be picked as high as 26th, but should fall to this spot.
Pick 28
New York (From Colorado) - When your team is this bad, and you traded for the pick, it is easy to understand why you have a bad team. Any player should help make the team a little better before they are traded away within one season. Elvin Sanders is a pretty good SF who can complement Lamaitre before he is traded away. He can score and is a solid rebounder. He will be able to get better once traded, plus he won't have to move far from Harlem University.
August 16th, 2002
A Rare Occurrence
Chaim Sowder of Capetown has offered to restructure his contract so that capetown would have a little more money to persue free agents. Chaim is entering the third year of his five year contract and is making $3.5 million a year. He has offered to sign a new 5 year deal where he would only make $3.0 million per year. Sowder was a key part of Capetowns team last season. He claims to enjoy life in Capetown and wants to try to finish his career there.
August 16th, 2002
Another Accident
The WBA needs to do something about the driving of it's players. Bomber Bartowski of Salt Lake City was the latest to be involved in a car accident. He was racing his Corvet against a friends Mustand when he lost controll and crashed into a large tree. Doctors say he will miss next season but should make a full recovery.
August 16th, 2002
Retirements Announced
1. 33 year-old, Anthony Cronin of Roswell, has decided to retire.
2. 32 year-old, Jud Moses of Rochester, has decided to retire.
3. 32 year-old, John Riddle of Budapest, has decided to retire.
4. 37 year-old, Bobby Shields of New York, has decided to retire.
5. 32 year-old, Thurman Holt, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
6. 22 year-old, Andy Delany, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
7. 24 year-old, Arnold Pine, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
8. 24 year-old, Bert Hecht, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
9. 23 year-old, Chris Zeigler, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
10. 23 year-old, Bill Stone, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
11. 22 year-old, Ernest Finkel, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
12. 26 year-old, Phil Nixon, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
13. 22 year-old, M.J. Jordan, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
14. 21 year-old, Henry Crawford, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
15. 22 year-old, Charles Carey, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
16. 23 year-old, Charles Sheaffer, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
17. 22 year-old, Charlie Chapman, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
18. 22 year-old, Chas Weissman, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
19. 23 year-old, Chip Wilkinson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
20. 25 year-old, Chris Hubbard, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
21. 34 year-old, Chuck Archer, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
22. 25 year-old, Javier Lewis, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
23. 23 year-old, Cory Jackson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
24. 24 year-old, Dennis Kuhn, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
25. 29 year-old, Dennis Thomas, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
26. 32 year-old, Doc Salmon, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
27. 36 year-old, Bill Owens, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
28. 22 year-old, Dusty Ross, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
29. 24 year-old, Eddie Atkinson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
30. 22 year-old, Justin Moore, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
31. 22 year-old, Jason King, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
32. 25 year-old, Fred Gumbert, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
33. 33 year-old, Fred Mota, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
34. 24 year-old, George Krieger, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
35. 22 year-old, Frank McKay, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
36. 25 year-old, Derek Lamsoor, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
37. 22 year-old, Gresh Ternent, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
38. 25 year-old, Gus Simon, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
39. 23 year-old, Herbert Thorpe, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
40. 22 year-old, Herm King, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
41. 37 year-old, Ike Coustier, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
42. 30 year-old, Jack Martin, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
43. 22 year-old, Jamie Corris, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
44. 23 year-old, Jeff Pruitt, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
45. 24 year-old, Jeff Widmann, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
46. 24 year-old, Jim Kellogg, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
47. 23 year-old, Jim Shirley, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
48. 27 year-old, Joe Brito, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
49. 22 year-old, Marco Jones, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
50. 25 year-old, Lloyd Snyder, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
51. 38 year-old, John Brett, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
52. 24 year-old, Juan Sanchez, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
53. 23 year-old, Jose Pearce, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
54. 22 year-old, Judge Jennings, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
55. 33 year-old, Bob Carter, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
56. 22 year-old, Kelton Massey, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
57. 29 year-old, Ken Moore, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
58. 23 year-old, Kevin Lewis, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
59. 24 year-old, Marty Atkinson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
60. 23 year-old, Matt Hernandez, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
61. 23 year-old, Maximillan Bauer, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
62. 22 year-old, Hank Jeter, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
63. 22 year-old, Mike Woods, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
64. 23 year-old, Misael Geller, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
65. 24 year-old, Myron Faris, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
66. 24 year-old, Noah Stokes, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
67. 22 year-old, LaRon Cephas, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
68. 22 year-old, Paul Sanders, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
69. 40 year-old, Pete Whitehouse, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
70. 25 year-old, Raphael Hanes, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
71. 32 year-old, Ray Johnson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
72. 23 year-old, Ray Miles, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
73. 22 year-old, Raz Popovic, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
74. 22 year-old, Rich Bellware, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
75. 25 year-old, Ricky Dobson, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
76. 22 year-old, Greg Mitchell, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
77. 27 year-old, Ron O'Hara, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
78. 30 year-old, Nick Mann, Free Agent, has decided to retire.
August 15th, 2002
Fast Cars, Short Careers
Once again there has been a car accident of a professional Basketball Player. WBA hopeful Raphael Haynes will be out for at least the start of the season but since he was not on a roster last season this may mean the end of his dream.
August 15th, 2002
WBA and Drugs
In the course of WBA history there have been several drug problems. The most notorious case was when Pee Wee Stoddard spent season 2 in jail. The WBA has tried hard to clean up their image and in doing so has just passed out a season long suspension of Charlie Elkington who has violated the Leagues drug policy. The WBA will not comment about what the offense is other than to say they hope Charlie can clean himself up and return for season 7.
This supsendion is a big hit to California's rebuilding efforts. Elkington was a key contributer for the Hellcats last season leading the team in scoring.
August 2nd, 2002
Top Franchises
By Sam Plummer
Now that Season 5 has ended, it is time to rank all the WBA franchises and give a little preview of things to come. Here is an interesting fact. Of the top 14 franchises, 11 have coached their team every season. Of the bottom 14 franchises, only 2 have coached their team every season. I think this is a result of patience and experience. The 2 losing teams that have coached their team every season are Dugyik of Budapest and Robert of Virgin Islands. Both these guys had huge improvements this season.
1. Colorado Pioneers 304-78 .796 (4 playoff appearances)
You would expect them to be here following their 3rd straight 70+ win season. I'd be surprised if anyone ever wins 70 games again. The fact that they've done it 3 times speaks volumes. The fact that they only have 1 championship speaks volumes as well. Season 6 will present a challenge for Marc as he will probably lose a couple of star players and will perhaps only win 50+ games. This team will probably still be a title contender.
2. Brooklyn Rage 290-92 .759 (5 playoff appearances)
According to their standards, they had a disappointing season and lost hold of being the top franchise in the league. For the first time, they failed to win their division. Despite a 10-game drop off from last season, this team is still among the league's elite and will battle Washington for first again in the division. For the 4th time in 5 years, this team exited from the playoffs after their first series despite being the favorite every season.
3. Cincinnati Cyclones 266-116 .696 (4 playoff appearances)
Jim McCarthy has been the cornerstone of this franchise since the inaugural season. He leads this defensive powerhouse to a winning record every season. Every season, it seems like this team is missing a piece to the puzzle. They're very consistent and are always among the top teams, but have lacked a point guard since Steve Peterson's departure a few seasons ago. If this team is able to get a point guard, they could possibly enter the new season as the best team in the league.
4. London Disco 258-124 .675 (4 playoff appearances)
They are the only team to have made it to the WBA Finals more than once. Unfortunately, they've lost both times. They have a nice 1-2 punch with Colbert and Davidson and have the right formula for success for years to come. They are probably the early favorites for the new season. David Song should be applauded for saving this franchise which had only won 32 games when he took over.
5. Boston Massacre 238-144 .623 (4 playoff appearances)
This team's record has steadily declined every season since winning the championship in Season 2. Dave Short and Bill Yeager are a nice duo, but like Cincinnati, has lacked a point guard for a couple of seasons since the unexpected departure of Chuck Henderson to Rochester. This team will probably be able to sign a major free agent during the off-season and will probably be in the hunt for PG Parker Mason.
6. Rochester Blaze 236-146 (5 playoff appearances)
Like Boston, this team's record has declined every season since Season 2. However, this team has fallen off the map of the league's elite, as they hung on to play just .500 ball. This once proud franchise who is only 1 of 2 teams to have made the playoffs all 5 seasons, is falling fast. They are the only team in the top 9 to have never made it to the Finals. The talent of the teams behind them this season seems to be catching up to them. Dave will need to pull a rabbit out the hat to get this team in the playoffs next season.
7. Washington Monuments 227-155 (3 playoff appearances)
Three seasons ago, they finished with a franchise record 62 wins. Last season, they won their first championship. And this season, they won their first division title. This team has had so much success in the last 3 seasons that they are the only team in the top 11 to have made it to the playoffs just 3 seasons. With the best duo in the league, scoring wise, in Boom-Boom Casey and Arron Black, this team will be among the elite for a long time.
8. Roswell XT 225-157 .589 (4 playoff appearances)
Since making it to the Finals in Season 2, this team really hasn't performed well. They have made it to the playoffs every season since, but that is mostly attributed to a weak conference. Thirty-nine wins this season got them the 6th best record in their conference. John Greene is getting overworked and is starting to pay for it.
9. Nebraska Sun Warriors 218-164 .571 (4 playoff appearances)
In Season 4, Brandonfs team made a statement to the Western Conference and showed that he was perhaps ready to dethrone Colorado. However, this season Nebraska struggled mightily. With their current roster, I don't see them dethroning Colorado any time soon. Leave it to Brandon to change that though. He has the smarts to make the right moves and help out Wayne Taylor.
10. Albacete Burning Hell 182-138 .569 (4 playoff appearances)
This is one of the league's most consistent franchises as it has made the playoffs every season since they were an expansion team in Season 2. Harry Jarvis has been the main attraction in Albacete every season, but needs more help. This team advanced to the Conference Finals, so they proved to the league that they're a dangerous team. Pedro proves year in and year out that he is one of the league's best gms and coaches.
11. Cancun Outlaws 215-167 .563 (4 playoff appearances)
Parker Mason and Kent Mercer are both up for free agency. Pat can sign them both if everything goes according to plan. Losing one of these guys would be devastating to a team that finally became among the league's elite. I can't forget to mention another young player in Scott Nicholson who is already signed long term. This team has a great nucleus and could be the favorites to win the Western Conference in the new season.
12. Texas Juggers 211-171 .552 (3 playoff appearances)
Gustavo likes to give this team a lot of hype even though they have failed to even reach 30 wins the last 2 seasons. You have to love Gustavo since he is determined to turn things around after he inherited a bad team. The best way to do this though, is for him to bid smarter on free agents and stop trading for players with high salaries.
13. Gabon Giants 205-177 .537 (3 playoff appearances)
Despite 3 60+ win seasons in a row, this team has failed miserably in the playoffs, losing twice in the first round and last season in the 2nd round when they were favored to win. Otto Hameleers will be free to test the free agent market. If Gabon can't re-sign him, then 60 wins won't be reachable.
14. New York Firestorm 197-185 .516 (3 playoff appearances)
Impatience and indecision are the two things that have made this team so bad the past 2 seasons. Steve can make good trades, but after the first sign of a losing streak, Steve panics and decides to change his whole approach. If Steve can come up with a plan and stick to it, he can get his team back into the playoffs. The first 3 seasons (more so the first 2 seasons), New York was a threat to contend. Had Steve kept George Holt last season, they would've been a playoff team. Now, it's back to the drawing board.
15. Oregon Golden Bears 165-155 .516 (3 playoff appearances)
This franchise isnft far away from getting back to the Finals where they were in Season 3. Lou Gonzales and Joe Jones prove to be one of the top duos in the league. They lack a point guard. If they have a good off-season, this team can dethrone Colorado as division champs and possibly world champs.
16. Montana Knights 175-207 .458 (3 playoff appearances)
There is no excuse for this team missing the playoffs this season after a remarkable run last season in which they were 1 game from making it to the Finals. Tom Perkins, Buck Jones, and John Davis is a solid trio, but they aren't good enough to not have a good supporting cast. If Michael can make some nice off-season acquisitions, this team can be one of the better teams in the West.
17. Budapest Tigers 173-209 .453 (3 playoff appearances)
I think it was clear that Dugyik wasn't handling his team too well for a few seasons. However, he quietly made exceptional moves this past season and took his team back to the playoffs after a 2 year hiatus and upset Brooklyn in the first round. This team is a defensive juggernaut and could be a contender in the new season if Dugyik can continue to make smart moves.
18. Baltimore Sentinels 161-221 .421 (2 playoff appearances)
In Season 4, this team looked like it was on its way to great things. However, last off-season's transition in ownership took too long and put this team back at the drawing board. They have a couple of nice players in Chapman and Lush. They also can be a major player in free agency. If Robby's 1 year of experience helps, this could be a playoff team in the new season.
19. Carolina Storm 154-228 .403 (1 playoff appearance)
This franchise has always been known for its scrappy play. Like Baltimore, they can be a major player in free agency. However, they're probably not yet ready to make the playoffs in the new season.
20. Varese Roosters 142-240 .374 (1 playoff appearance)
This team hasn't tasted the playoffs since Season 1. Adam Rutland has been very patient and is slowly but surely inching his way closer and closer to the playoffs. It is vital for this franchise to make the playoffs in the new season and the only way to do this is to have a good off-season.
21. Salt Lake City Fanatics 141-241 .369 (2 playoff appearances)
Despite its 4th losing season in a row, this team was able to make the playoffs for the first time since Season 1, and like then, was the last team to qualify for the postseason. Believe it or not, this team is on the right track and will only get better.
22. California Hellcats 138-244 .361 (2 playoff appearances)
I think Greg Blaxland did one heck of a job with this team. I'm not sure if anyone remembers how poor this team looked on paper when he took this team over. He assembled a scrappy team that played well together and earned the 7th seed. I urge Greg to continue with the good work and never get discouraged because there aren't a lot of owners in the league who could've done what you did in such little time. You truly made the most of what you had.
23. Utah Highlanders 136-246 .356 (2 playoff appearances)
This team hasnft had something to root for since John Riddle was in his prime, which seemed like a long time ago (Season 2). Devonta Corrigan and Alvin Simpson provide a lot of hope for this once proud franchise who won 92 in its first 2 seasons, but only 44 since. Walt Rogers also deserves some mentioning who quietly averaged over 18 points per contest. He will be testing the free agent market, but probably won't get a lot of interest. This team can be a major player in the free agent market and could make a run at the playoffs in the new season.
24. Omaha Cowboys 134-248 .351 (1 playoff appearance)
This team isn't very flashy and is made up of mostly role players. They do have enough cap room to sign a significant free agent which could help them to fight for the final playoff spot in the new season.
25. Miami Xtreme 112-208 .350 (2 playoff appearances)
This team has never had a winning record, but has appeared in the playoffs twice. Omaha's description fits Miami too.
26. Birmingham Buriers 98-222 .306 (0 playoff appearances)
This team took a huge step backwards this season after making huge strides in the previous 2 seasons. Change in ownership a few times is the reason for this former expansion team's shortcomings. The new owner looks like he might turn things around though.
27. Virgin Islands 78-242 .244 (0 playoff appearances)
This past season proved to be a step in the right direction for Robert who more than doubled his previous franchise record in wins with 36 wins compared to 17. George Holt proved to be a smart acquisition on Robert's part. With the right moves, this team should be a playoff team next season, but still can't compete with Washington and Brooklyn for first place.
28. Capetown 71-249 .222 (0 playoff appearances)
It should be no surprise that this franchise is the worst in the league. It hasn't been able to find an active owner since they joined the league in Season 2. Colorado had as many wins THIS season as this team has had in the 4 years of its existence.