Nates Notes| Season 6 | Second Round Preview| Division 1

#8 Tupac Back vs. #1 Washed Up

Commissioners Comments:

#1 Washed Up should easily take care of Tupac Back, especially when they have been off for nearly 3 weeks and get to début their new uniform for the playoffs. WU have been off for nearly 3 weeks, they’re old… they need the rest.

Nate’s Notes:

The typical 1 vs. 8 match-up will be just that 1 versus. 8. With both teams being very well rested, look for them to come out a tad bit rusty due to lack of “game speed play” after the bye week, Washed up is coming off consecutive bye weeks, however I don’t think that will affect their play for long.

MVP Candidate Johnny Earl leads Washed Up into this game, Earl averaged 25.0 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.8 apg. through the teams 6 regular games. Earl is instant offense, as well as a threat from anywhere on the court, he is a proficient shooter, shooting 41% from three-point range. The other Earl, Michael is the teams second leading scorer and demands a lot of attention, the 6’6 Center is averaging 17.7 ppg and pulling in 8.7 rpg. Michael Earl is not the teams only threat in the low post. André Lyons is a bully in the paint averaging 14.3 ppg, and 8.3 rpg. with Earl and Lyons in the post this team is unbeatable and their 6-0 record is proof.

Tupac Back on the other hand is coming off a first round win over #9 Knicee and all of their players are oozing with confidence and letting it be known that Tupac is indeed Back. (pun intended). The man in the middle Jordan Block leads the way for this team, he entered the playoffs averaging 22.0 ppg, 6.8 rpg but finished with a strong 15 point, 13 rebounds performance in Tupac Backs first round game. Jeff Allen was the teams unsung hero in the first round, in the regular season Allen averaged  9.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg, but in the teams first playoff game with Knicee. Allen led the team in scoring with 23 points and 9 rebounds a near double-double.  Paul King finished the season as the teams third leading scorer with 11.8 ppg, and 5.8 rpg but just like his teammate Jeff Allen he came up huge in the first round. King was the teams second leading scorer with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists.

At the end of the day, Washed-Up is just the better team, they’ll come away with the victory and advance to the semi finals, and take on the winner of the #4 Play Makerz and #5 Morningwood game.

#7 The Pack vs. #2 I Ball

Commissioners Comments :

#2 I BALL and The Pack will be a closer game than the seeding presents. The two teams stack up pretty well, especially since both teams can shoot from behind the arc. But I would give a slight edge to I BALL with their overwhelming team size over The Pack. BUT you can throw that all out if only 3-4 of their players show up.

Nate’s Notes:

Who would have thought at the start of the season that IBall would be the divisions #2 seed at the end of the regular season? Or better yet The Pack advancing to the second round after a 3-4 regular season, with one of their bright spots being their Week 6 victory over the #4 seeded heavily favored Play Makerz.  I knew I didn’t I see this coming. Both teams have different styles of play with The Pack favoring the three-point shot while IBall prefers to pound it in on the inside and bully you in the post.

 

The Pack was led into the playoffs by their leading scorer Tyler who entered the playoffs averaging 11.8 ppg and 7.8 rpg, Tyler however didn’t show up in the first round, not that he needed to. However his 6 point, 2 rebound performance was mediocre at best and I expect him to put his stamp on this second round game. Luke, who is the teams second leading scorer, averaged 11.3 ppg and 2.3 rpg in the regular season but had a huge game in the first round. He shot the lights out and was really the spark that lit The Pack and helped them get out to a big lead. Luke finished the game with 21 points, shooting 5’11 from downtown.  Lonnie Rivera, the teams third leading scorer entered the playoffs averaging 11.0 ppg and 8.2 rpg, really had his finger prints all over the teams first round victory with his 25 points and 9 rebounds. If Rivera and Luke can play that way every week, there is no reason The Pack can’t make it deep into the playoffs.

IBall has a very potent and balanced offense led into this match-up by their big man Mauricio who is averaging a near double-double with 19.5 ppg, and 9.3 rpg. Behind Mauricio is Justin with 13.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 2.5 apg. Wilson Fiallos and Les are the teams third leading scorers entering the playoffs with both players averaging 13.0 ppg, Fiallos is averaging a little over 5rpg (5.3) while Les is averaging close to 6 rpg (5.8). James is the teams 4th double-digit scorer entering the playoffs averaging 12.0 ppg and 6.3 rpg. This team is filled with quick guards that attack the basket.

This should be a very intense game, with The Pack coming out on top and shocking the Division. The winner of this game with take on the winner of the game below.

#6 West Coast Pros. vs. #3 The Dynasty

Commissioners Comments : 

#3 Dynasty and #6 West Coast Pros will be another close game. Once again, it all depends on who shows up this week. If both teams are at full strength… I would pick WCP to get the upset, they are a lot better than their #6 ranking because of roster issues throughout the regular season.

Nate’s Notes:

After having a near full roster in their Week 7 game, the West Coast Pros. entered their playoff match-up in Week 8 with a small roster but still managed to pull out a close game over the #11 seeded P.A.H.U they will now take on the #3 team The Dynasty who is my favorite to take it all. Every time the Dynasty takes the court you should expect an aerial show. However they are more than just athletes this guys can play the game. Both of these teams can “play the game” their styles just differ. WCP relies on their scrappy defense and hustle plays while the Dynasty takes full advantage of their athleticism as well as their 3 point shooting.

The West Coast Pros. were led into the post season by high-flyer Shawn Sawyer who averaged 18.0 ppg and 6.2 RPG in 5 regular season games. Sawyer however had a very disappointing first round game dropping only 8 points and 2 rebounds.  Josh, was the teams second leading scorer in the regular season with 15.4 ppg and 8.4 rpg  and delivered exactly those numbers in the first round, 15 points and 8 rebounds. Charles Grays was the teams third leading scorer entering the playoffs with 11.4 ppg, 3.7 rpg but thrived in the first round with a 19 points and 7 rebounds performance.

The high-powered offense of The Dynasty is led by Tren 24.0 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.3 apg. Behind Tren is Holden who is 1 of 2 players that played in all 7 regular season games this season. Holden is averaging 20.0 ppg, and 8.7 rpg. Buai Tut is the teams third leading scorer entering this match-up. Tut is averaging 18.8 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 2.3 apg. Walter rounds out the “players to watch” with his 12.0 ppg and 4.3 rpg.

Contrary to the commish’s belief that this game will be close, I would beg to differ, the Dynasty has an offensive attack that in comparable to no other team, they thrive off the fastbreak, and can score by the bunches. The Dynasty leads the Division in scoring with 77.1 ppg while the West Coast Pros. sit at #6 on the list with an average of 58.6 ppg. I see The Dynasty coming out of this match-up unscathed and ready to take on the winner of The Pack and IBall game.

#4 Play Makerz vs. #5 Morningwood

 Commissioners Comments : 

 #4 Play Makerz and #5 Morningwood are two teams that really matchup well. Morningwood look lost a few times in the season and they only added 1 new player this season. I have Play Makerz advancing into the next round, they can score points in every position (Morningwood statistical numbers have declined sharply since they’re now a midpack D1 team).

Nate’s Notes:

These two teams headlined the season opener when they met in Week 1. The Play Makerz came out on top in the “clash of the titans” and seemed unscathed to say the least, after a 80-61 romping of the defending champs. Now seven weeks after their initial match-up these teams will square off  with bragging rights and a chance to advance further in the playoffs on the line.

Both teams finished with a (4-3) record and have had their fair shares of ups and downs this season. In pursuit of their unprecedented 5th Division Championship Morningwood enters the game with a mediocre 4-3 record. They do not seem ready to defend their championship.

I’ve had several interviews with several players that claim the team is indeed “in turmoil” (players not fulfilling their roles, arguing amongst the team, and they’ve lost the competitive edge that set them apart from the competition the past couple of seasons) reports also claim this could very well be their last season together as a unit. This season is reminiscent of Season 3 when Morningwood was defeated by Primetime in the Division Semi Finals. That could very well be the scenario in this upcoming match up.

Diahnte “D-Smooth” Pickett led his troops into battle all season and will enter the playoffs as the teams leading scorer, averaging (13.0 PPG, 1.0 SPG).  The big man Dewayne O’Neal has had a significant drop off from his MVP season in Season 5, with statistical decreases in points and rebounds. O’Neal enters the playoffs averaging (11.4 PPG, and 7.7 RPG) after entering last seasons playoffs averaging a double-double (15.9 PPG, 14.0 RPG).  Below O’Neal on the stat sheet is the other half of the Pickett brothers Derrick Pickett (10.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG) Pickett is also averaging career lows in points and rebounds. Rich Cobarrubias enters the playoffs as the teams fourth leading scorer, but he however is averaging career lows in points (7.2 PPG) and three-point field goal percentage (32%).

The Play Makerz are led into this first round match-up by Johnnie Green (21.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG) Green has been the cornerstone of  the Play Makerz offense for the entire season and is 1 of the 2 players on his team to have played in all seven regular season games this season. Behind Green is high-flyer Aesh Dabbas who is averaging (18.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG) Dabbas was a key contributor in their Week 7 match-up with The Alliance, he finished with (20 points and 12 rebounds). Amos Battle will be a key contributor in this game, he finished the season as the teams third leading scorer and will enter the playoffs averaging (16.0 PPG, and 2.0 RPG). This will no doubt be a high scoring affair, the key component for  Morningwood would have to be defense, they gave up 80 points (season high) to the Play Makerz in Week 1 which is inexcusable for a championship team they should also limit “highlight plays” such as dunks, things like that seem to fuel a team and give them energy.

The key component for the Play Makerz would have to be to get all  players to the game and play the way they played in Week 1. They’ve already defeated this team and are poised to do so for a second time. Retribution is on the mind of Morningwood players, look for this game to be an IBL Classic. With a loss this may very well be the final chapter in Morningwoods IBL book.  

The Winner of this game will move on to play the winner of the #1 Washed Up vs. #8 Tupac Back 

__________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Playoffs | Division 3 | 1st Round Recap

DIVISION 3

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

1st round Recap

by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

Like in Division 1, the Brackets stayed true in Division 3. The higher seeded team won each match-up, but not without a fight from the lower seeded teams, the semi-finals are set and the #1 UKnow V2 will take on the #4 seeded Justice League while on the other side of the brackets the defending champs #2 Pantera Legends will take on #3 Young Money in what has quickly developed into a heated rivalry.

#5 Dirty Homies vs. #7 Primetime

DIVISION 3

The #5 seeded Dirty Homies hold off #7 Primetime in a shootout, with the Dirty Homies coming away with a 69-63 victory to advance to a second round match-up with the #4 seeded Justice League.

DJ Romasanta led the way for the Primetime, Romasanta finished with 17 points, and 7 rebounds. Kevin Lim assisted Romasanta with the scoring load and finished with 14 points and 6 rebounds on 6/12 shooting from the field.  Alex Peou was the teams third leading scorer with 9 points and 3 rebounds. M.Candido rounded out the scoring load with 8 points and 10 rebounds.

With the absence of their leading scorer Charlie Hinojosa for the second straight game, Jesus “Chuy” Contreras thrusted himself into the role of the teams leading scorer. Contreras led the team in scoring. column finishing with a game high 29 points and 18 rebounds. Behind Contreras was Jesse “J-Nice” Jimenez, Jimenez finished with 25 points, 11 boards and 7 assists, a very well-played all around game by Contreras and Jimenez.  Mario rounded out the scoring load with 8 points and 3 rebounds.

#6 Bombers vs. #8 Prospectz

DIVISION 3

The Bombers pull out a 48-46 victory over the Prospectz, in a division 3 playoff thriller.

The Bombers were led by Jimmy G. Jimmy finished with a team high 16 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Jose Vasquez was the teams second leading scorer, Vasquez finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals a double-double performance for the veteran guard. JR finished with 8 points and 2 rebounds and Edgar 5 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals were notable performers for the Bombers.

David led the Prospectz in the scoring column, he finished with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Anthony was second in command behind David, he finished with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists.  Joel Torres was the teams 3rd leading scorer with a 10 point and 7 rebounds performance. Minh Thong had a noteworthy performance finishing with 7 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists.

2nd Round 

#5 Dirty Homies vs. #4 Justice League

DIVISION 3

After a first round victory via forfeit, the Justice League were ready to get their road to the finals underway. Standing in their path was the #5 seeded Dirty Homies who were fresh off a 69-63 first round victory. Both teams battled hard, with the Justice League holding off the Dirty Homies by a score of 61-60 in an overtime thriller.

With Jesus Contreras having a huge game in the first round due to a lack of post presence for Primetime. Jesse Jimenez took the reigns of the team in this second round match-up and led them in the scoring column. Jimenez finished with 25 points, 4 rebounds and dished out 4 assists, and 2 steals behind Jimenez was Jesus “Chuy” Contreras, Chuy finished with 14 points and pulled in a game high 15 boards. Mario rounded out the scoring load with 13 points and 4 rebounds.

Josey Victorito led the way for the Justice League finishing with a team/game high 25 points, 4 boards, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Leomar Locholo, assisted Victorio with the scoring load, Locholo finished with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Justin Nguyen pulled in 7 boards to go along with his 10 points which rounded out the team’s top performers. 

 

#6 Bombers vs. #3 Young Money

DIVISION 3

After a rough start, Young Money pulls it together late behind the hot shooting of Zeke Benedetti to hold off the Bombers and come away with a 61-55 victory.

Young Money was led by Robel Kevorkian who finished with a game high 16 points and 6 rebounds on 4/8 shooting from the field.  Abdul and Zeke Benedetti were the teams second leading scorers both players finished with 11 points apiece. Abdul also pulled in 12 rebounds to go along with his 11 points to record a double-double. Aaron Ford was the teams third leading scorer and rounded out the scoring load with 10 points and 2 rebounds. Ashwin Sharma was a notable performer, he finished with 7 points and 2 boards.

The Bombers were led by Jimmy G. who finished with a game high (23 points and 4 rebounds) Jose Vasquez who finished with 15 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists,and 2 steals. and Keys rounded out the scoring trio of the Bombers with (8 points and 2 rebounds).

 __________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Playoffs | Division 1 | 1st Round Recap

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

1st Round Recap

By: Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

#8 Tupac Back vs. #9 Knicee

DIVISION 1

#8 Tupac Back holds off a late surge by the Kenneth Ubom led Knicee, to come away with a 72-67 victory and advance to the second round of the Division 1 playoffs. They send Knicee home after a 3-5 season.

This was arguably Knicee‘s best game overall as a team, the scoring was very balanced and the team chemistry that the team lacked in the 7 weeks prior seemed to had finally come full circle. MVP Candidate  Kenneth Ubom  led the team in the scoring column after another  30 points, 7 rebound performance.  Anthony Barajas has been Ubom’s wingman all season long and finished as the teams second leading scorer with  13 points and 4 rebounds while David returned to the line-up after a brief absence to finish with 12 points and 3 rebounds, John Dang finished with 10 points, 4 rebounds and dished out 6 dimes to round out the top performers for this injury riddled Knicee team.

Jeff Allen led the way for Tupac Back in this first round victory. Allen finished with a team high 23 Points and 9 rebounds, behind Allen on the stat sheet was Paul King, who finished with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists, a very balanced all around game for King. Team GM  Jordan Block rounded out the team’s top  scorers with 15 point,13 rebounds and 4 assists performance.

A very solid all around game from Tupac Back, who now advance to the second round to face the #1 seeded Washed Up (6-0).

#7 The Pack vs. #10 The Alliance

DIVISION 1

After a rigorous start to the game, an under manned Alliance team, scratched and clawed all game but The Packs hot shooting was too much to overcome. The Pack takes care of business defeating the #10  seeded Alliance by a score of  79-52.

The Alliance team was led by Aaron Sanchez who finished with a team high 28 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists. Sanchez decided to take the scoring initiative late in the second half after a sub par first half. Jaime Villalobos did all he could to keep his team from being embarrassed but failed to make a significant impact, finishing with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. Desean Collins rounded out the top scorers for The Alliance with 5 points and 6 rebounds. The game got out of hand early for the Alliance after Luke hit a string of threes to give The Pack an early 17-2 lead.

Lonnie Rivera led all scorers for The Pack. Rivera seemed to be feeling it early after multiple wide open lay-ups after successful pass n cut sequences. Rivera finished with a team high 25 points and 9 rebounds , Luke was second in command for The Pack and was the key factor in The Packs run to an early lead.  Luke finished with 21 points on 5/11 shooting from downtown. George Lewis rounded out the top scorers with 11 points and 4 rebounds.

A very well played game from The Pack, who out played The Alliance is every way shape and form. This team was hungry for a win from the get-go and it showed. The Pack now move on to play the #2 seed IBall in a 2nd round that will take place Dec. 4th.

#6 West Coast Pros. vs. #11 P.A.H.U

DIVISION 1

The West Coast Pros. and P.A.H.U battle it out in a crucial first round match up with the higher seeded West Coast Pros. coming away with a narrow 48-42 victory.

Charles Grays led the way for West Coast Pros. with 19 points, and 7 rebounds.  Josh was the second leading scorer with 15 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 rebounds. Shawn Sawyer rounded out the scoring load with 8 points and 2 rebounds.

For P.A.H.U, Gary McNellys Jr. led the way with 13 points and 5 rebounds, shooting 3/12 shooting from the field. Damon finished with 10 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist. Greg rounded out the scoring load with 4 points, and 1 rebound.

Both teams played a phenomenal game, with the West Coast Pros. outlasting P.A.H.U.

The West Coast Pros. will now take on the #3 seed The Dynasty in the second round.

__________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

IBL | Season 6 | Week 7 Recap | Division 1

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

Week 7

By: Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

The Regular season is now over, Week 7 wrapped up with many teams coming away with very convincing wins over their D1 counterparts. However a “new” season is here, the PLAYOFFS always bring out the best of every competitor. Who will take home the ship?

Knicee vs. The Dynasty

DIVISION 1

The Dynasty secures the #3 seed in the Division 1 playoffs after a 90 – 61 beat down of a short-handed Knicee team.

Knicee was led by MVP Candidate Kenneth Ubom who finished with 32 points and 4 rebounds while Odell Howard finished with 13 points and 9 rebounds, John Dang finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds to round out the top performers for the under manned Knicee team.

As always The Dynasty had a balanced offensive “aerial” attack with Tren leading the way scoring 31 of the teams 90 points. Tren also pulled in 3 rebounds. Holden finished the game as the teams second leading scorer with 25 points and 10 rebounds. O.Collins was the third leading scorer with 11 points,  and 6 rebounds. Buai Tut rounded out the scoring quartet with 8 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Morningwood vs. IBall

DIVISION 1

Morningwoods reign of terror over the IBL may be coming to an end after 5 seasons, their Week 7;70 – 57 loss to IBall drops the reigning champs to 4-3 and in the #5 spot while IBall secures the #2 seed.

Derrick Pickett led all Morningwood scorers with 17 points 5 rebound, 3 assists and 2 steals. Diahnte Pickett was the second leading scorer behind Derrick, Diahnte finished with 13 points. Dewayne O’Neal and Rich Cobarrubias were the teams third leading scorers, with 10 points apiece O’Neal also pulled in 8 rebounds to go along with his 10 points.

Mauricio led the way for IBall, finishing with 27 points and pulled in 14 rebounds. Wilson Fiallos assisted Mauricio with a 15 points  6 rebounds. Lester, Tony and Adam rounded out the top performers for IBall with 7 points apiece.

The Alliance vs. West Coast Pros.

DIVISION 1

After reading last weeks “constructive criticism” the West Coast Pros. took the court on time and with 5 players. They were fired up, and all the chatter was about my little piece. They built a 20 point lead over The Alliance early in the 3rd quarter but seen their once 20 point lead cut to 3 points after a three-point tirade from The Alliance, The West Coast Pros. weathered the storm and came away with a 66 – 62 victory.

The Alliance team was led by Jaime Villalobos who finished with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists, Villalobos also shot an efficient 7/9 from three-point range.  Jairo Lopez and Ralph Chavez finished with 11 points apiece. Byron Woods rounded out the top scorers for The Alliance with 7 points and 2 rebounds.

Josh led the way for West Coast Pros. with 26 points, and 9 rebounds.  Charles Grays was the second leading scorer with 16 points and 4 rebounds, Grays opened up the game with a 4-point play on the teams first possession. Donnel Fleming rounded out the scoring load with 12 points and 4 rebounds. Fleming hit a clutch 3 point basket late in the 4th quarter to give his team a little breathing room. 

Knicee vs. The Pack

DIVISION 1

After dropping 3 straight games, Knicee gets back on a winning track defeating The Pack, 65 – 63 in their Week 7 bout.

Phillip Wilson led all scorers for The Pack  with 14 points and 5 rebounds , Tyler was second in command with 13 points and 12 rebounds. GM Craig Crampton and Luke rounded out the top scorers  with 10 points apiece. 

Knicee was led by Kenneth Ubom who finished with 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists while Anthony Barajas finished with 16 points and 3 rebounds, Odell Howard and John Dang finished with 9 points apiece to round out the top scorers for Knicee. Howard also pulled in 11 rebounds.

Play Makerz vs. The Alliance 

DIVISION 1

The Play Makerz pull away late to come away with a  77 – 67 win, after having The Alliance stick around all game.

Johnnie Green notched a team-high 31 points pulled in 3 rebounds. Aesh Dabbas chipped in 20 points and 12 rebounds. Vonn Tabb finished with 10 and 6 rebounds points to round out the scoring trio of the Play Makerz.

The Alliance team was led by Jaime Villalobos who finished with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists Jairo Lopez finished with 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists and  Jimmy Nguyen rounded out the top scorers for The Alliance with 11 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Ralph Chavez was a notable performer for The Alliance, Chavez finished with 10 points and 6 rebounds.

__________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

IBL | Season 6 | Week 7 Recap | Division 2

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

Week 7

by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

The most interesting Division all season, has impressed us week in and week out with its intriguing match-ups. Week 7 was no different, the playoff seedings is finally set. Quiksilver will be the #1 overall seed after they ran through DX in Week 7, Double Dribble takes the #2 seed after losing the head to head tie breaker with Quiksilver, Wonton Soup falls from #1 to #3 after a loss to the now #4 seeded Secret Agents, the Cali Raisins move from #7 to #5 with their Week 7 defeat of the Revenge, and with the bye week UKnow falls out of the top 4 and trickle all the way down to #6 losing multiple point differential tie breakers.

#JETS vs. The Revenge

DIVISION 2

In a fight for playoff positioning the #JETS and the Revenge battle it out in their week 7 showdown, with the Revenge coming away with a 52 – 45 victory.

With the absence of their leading scorer Joe-Joe (25.8 PPG) for the second consecutive week, Matt took the reins of the team and the role of the “go-to” player for the #JETS, he finished with 18 points, and 5 rebounds. Anthony finished with 12 points, and 4 rebounds. Simon Dewhurst and Kenny rounded out the scoring quartet with 6 points apiece. Ricky Figueroa was a notable performer for the #JETS, he finished with a team high 12 rebounds.

The Revenge was led by Aaron Ford who finished with 14 points, 3 rebounds, Max Andrade was the teams second leading scorer with 12 points and 9 rebounds, Abdul Aziz rounded out the scoring load with 9 points and a team high 14 rebounds.

X-Men vs. Han$um Goonz

DIVISION 2

After a heartbreaking 2 point loss in Week 6, the Han$um Goonz rebound in Week 7 to come away with a 67 – 63 victory over the X-Men.

Odis Wishum led the Han$um Goonz in the scoring column with 30 points and 11 rebounds. Aaron Bell  was second in command and finished with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Lavar Jackson rounded out the scoring trio of the H$G with 5 points. Jackson also pulled in 9 rebounds. This is a momentum building win for the H$G who are entering the playoffs as the #9 seed.

Darren Smith led all X-Men scorers for the game with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists. Smith seems to be a big piece of an X-Men offense that was averaging (45.7 ppg) before his arrival. Deante Smith finished with 11 points and 7 boards. Chris Smith rounded out the scoring trio with 9 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks. The Smith trio seem to lead the way for the X-Men every week, I’d hate to see where the X-Men would be in the standings without the Smiths.

DX vs. Quiksilver

DIVISION 2

Quiksilver gains sole possession of the #1 seed after an 87 – 30 victory over DX. Quiksilver finishes the season at 6-1. DX on the other hand falls to 0-7 and will be the #16 seed in this Sundays playoffs.

Quiksilver was led by Justin who finished with 22 points, and 10 rebounds. Brandon Kinard had a similar numbers, he finished with 21 points, 10 rebounds. After a two game absence Harry Yoo returned to the QS line-up to finish with his 4th double-double of the season. Yoo  had a stat line that read (15 points and 13 rebounds). Yoo also dished 4 assists to his teammates and was a downright thief with 3 steals under his belt.

Pierce Mayoral finished with a team high, he logged in 8 points and 6 rebounds. Chris Mayoral and Gabe Hunt were DX’s other source of offense. Both players finished with 6 points apiece. Due to Quiksilver’s stifling defense prowess.

Double Dribble vs. 5 Guys 1 Cup

DIVISION 2

After a slow start filled with technical fouls, Double Dribble pulls together early in the second half and come away with a 70 – 51 win over 5 Guys 1 Cup.

5 Guys 1 Cup, had a very balanced offensive attack with Castro finishing with a team high, he logged in 13 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists. Waldo assisted Castro finishing with 12 points and 2 rebounds. Alex Hernandez was the third leading scorer with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Derrick “Slim” Pickett led all Double Dribble scorers with 24 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals, shooting 10/14 (71%) from the field.  Diahnte “D-Smooth” Pickett assisted his teammate and finished with 23 points. Jesse Jimenez was the teams third leading scorer with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Andrae “Liddo Man” Lockett rounded out the top 4 scorers with 10 points, 2 assists and 2 rebounds.

Secret Agents vs. Wonton Soup

DIVISION 2

One of the more intriguing games of the evening was the Wonton Soup vs. Secret Agents game, earlier in the season the Secret Agents said that they were capable of beating the defending champs, they even went as far as calling WS “overrated”, so when the Secret Agents under performing a few weeks ago I called them out, and this is their response. A 69 – 61 victory over the defending champions.

The Secret Agents had a very balanced offensive attack, Teron “T-Mack” Mack led the way in the scoring column, T-Mack finished with  a game high 23 points, and 5 rebounds. Lonnie Bradshaw was the teams second leading scorer behind Mack. Bradshaw finished with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Behind Mack and Bradshaw was Terrail Thomas who finished with 11 points, 2 assists and 2 steals. Darryial Morris rounded out the Secret Agents top performers with 10 points and 4 rebounds.

Jamaal Logan led the way for Wonton Soup. Logan was the teams leading scorer with 17 points and 1 rebound. Jaime Villalobos carried the scoring load behind Logan, Villalobos finished with 15 points and 3 rebounds. Robel Kevorkian rounded out the scoring load with 9 points. Although Aaron Sanchez was in the line-up he was virtually non-existent on the offensive end of things all game, Sanchez finished with 8 points and 10 rebounds on 3/5 shooting.

Warriors vs. Wet Bandits

DIVISION 2

The Wet Bandits prove to be too much for the Warriors to handle. The Wet Bandits come away with a 61 – 55 win.

Lester Cole fulfilled his role, and did what he could to get his team over the hump. He led the Warriors in the scoring column and finished with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Rahsaan Oliver was the teams second leading scorer with 12 points and 8 rebounds. This is the second double-digit scoring output from Oliver who seems to have finally found his “niche” within the team. Kemoy Mathis rounded out the top 3 scorers with 7 points and 6 rebounds.

Brandon Parham led the Wet Bandits, Parham finished with 20 points and 16 rebounds. Nigel Leos was second in command, Leos finished with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Demetrius Watson rounded out the scoring quintet finishing with 16 points and 7 rebounds.

Nut Krackerz vs. Happy Hour

DIVISION 2

After 6 Weeks of coming up short, Happy Hour finally comes away with a win at the hands of the Nut Krackerz, the score board read 69 – 53 after the final horned sounded and I’ve never seen the Happy Hour players look happier. Now they will try to ride this new-found momentum into the first round when they take on the #11 Warriors.

Matt Delfino led all Nut Kracker scorers with 22 points and 8 rebounds. Solin Bit and Eric played a huge part of the Nut Krackerz offense. Both players finished with 13 points. Bit also pulled in 11 rebounds and dished out 4 assists, while Eric pulled in 6 boards and dished out 3 dimes. Elias Salloum did not have his best game but he managed to put 5 points on the board and pull in 8 rebounds.

Pierre Recinto led the way for Happy Hour, he finished with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Tim Recinto assisted his teammate with the scoring load and finished with 15 points. Mike Dorn and Drew Baldovino rounded out the scoring quartet for Happy Hour, both players  finished with 12 points. Dorn also pulled in 9 rebounds and 3 assists.

California Raisins vs. The Revenge

DIVISION 2

The Cali Raisins gain ground on other 5-2 teams after a 87 – 56 beat down of the Revenge in what turned out to be their final game of the regular season.

The Revenge was led by Max Andrade who finished with 20 points, 6 rebounds, Adarsh Ghardi was the teams second leading scorer with 13 points and 3 rebounds, Aaron Ford rounded out the scoring load with 11 points and 6 rebounds.

MVP Candidate Dominic Tiger-Cortes led all California Raisin scorers for the game with 31 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals. Korey Davis assisted Cortes with the scoring load and finished with 22 points and 7 assists. Kevin Tung had one of his best games in a Raisin uniform finishing with 21 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. Kwasi Mensah rounded out the scoring load of the Raisins with 8 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocked shots.

__________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

IBL | Season 6 | Week 7 Recap | Division 3

DIVISION 3

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

Week 7

by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

With the regular season coming to an end, many D3 teams are ecstatic at the fact they have a chance to play for the Division’s ultimate prize. In Week 7 the seedings became finalized with UKnow V2 securing the #1 seed. The Pantera Legends snatch the #2 seed from two other teams after a point differential tie-breaker. Young Money is the #3 seed, they however have a first round bye due to the forfeited season of Brea Jr. 7:30. This should be the most compelling playoffs we have seen in a while.

Pantera Legends vs. Prospectz

DIVISION 3

The Pantera Legends makes little work of the Prospectz behind leading MVP candidate Dylan Liebelt’s all-star performance, Pantera comes away with a 92 – 52 win.

Dylan Liebelt led the way for  the Pantera Legends, finishing with 39  points,. Liebelt also pulled in 6 rebounds and was a thief in his own right, coming away with 5 steals. Anthony Barajas assisted Liebelt with the offensive load to finish with his first triple-double of the season. His stat line read (19 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists) a very complete game for Barajas. GM Richard Hak and big man Alvin Trinh rounded out the scoring load with 15 points apiece. Hak dished out 8 assists while Trinh pulled in 8 rebounds. A very balanced team effort to say the least.

Minh Thong led the Prospectz in the scoring column, Thong finished with 20 points and a game high 23 rebounds. Joel Torres was second in command behind Thong, Torres finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds, those were the only two Prospect performers in double-figures. Leon Hudson had a noteworthy game finishing with 8 points and 5 rebounds but that wasn’t enough to keep his team remotely close to being in the game.

UKnow 2.0 vs. Prospectz

DIVISION 3

UKnow V2 clinched the #1 overall seed in the playoffs with a 6-1 record after a 72 – 53 victory over the Prospectz sending the Prospectz home with a 2-5 record after 7 weeks of play.

Anthony Cockrell was the high man for UKnow V2, shooting 7/12 from the field to finish with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists and 3 steals. Albert Suitley assisted Cockrell with the scoring load, Suitley finished with 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks. Brandon Kinard rounded out the team’s top 3 performers with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Notable performers for UKnow were Josh Johnson and Brandon Cuellar who finished with 7 points each.

Minh Thong led the Prospectz in the scoring column, Thong finished with 19 points and a game high 17 rebounds. Julian was second in command behind Thong, Julian finished with 9 points and 6 rebounds, . Leon Hudson and Joel Torres had a noteworthy performances finishing with 8 points apiece. 

Dirty Homies vs. Bombers

DIVISION 3

The Dirty Homies pull away late to defeat the Bombers by a score of 54 – 43 in their week 7 match-up.

With the absence of their leading scorer Charlie Hinojosa, Jesse Jimenez took the alpha-dog roll and led the team in scoring. Jimenez finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds and dished out 2 assists, behind Jimenez was Jesus “Chuy” Contreras, Chuy finished with 14 points and pulled in a game high 17 boards. Jimmy Huynh rounded out the scoring load with 9 points and 3 rebounds.

The Bombers were led by Jimmy G. who finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds, a near double-double for the guard. Jose Vasquez (8 points, 12 rebounds) and Edgar (9 points, 15 rebounds) were notable performers for the Bombers who have hit a slump.

Pantera Legends vs. Young Money

DIVISION 3

The Pantera Legends fall to an upcoming Young Money team, by a score of 58 – 51.

Young Money  was led by Robel “Roblaze” Kevorkian who finished with a game high 19 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocked shots. Aaron Ford was the teams second leading scorer with 13 points and 2 rebounds. Mark was the teams third leading scorer 9 points and 3 rebounds, Mark also hit a clutch 3 point shot late in the game to ice the game for Young Money.

Dylan Liebelt led the way for  the Pantera Legends, finishing with 19  points,. Liebelt also pulled in 7 rebounds and finished with a season high 2 blocks. Anthony Barajas assisted Liebelt with the offensive load. Barajas finished with 10 points and 6 rebounds. Alvin Trinh rounded out the scoring load with 7 points and 12 rebounds. Young Money just out played the Legends in this game.

Bombers vs. Young Money

DIVISION 3

Young Money keeps their 4 game win streak alive by defeating the Bombers, 76 – 67.

Young Money  was led by Ashwin Sharma who finished with a game high 22 points and 6 rebounds on 9/16 shooting from the field.  Jason “JayBron” Trinh  was the teams second leading scorer with 18 points and 3 rebounds. Robel Kevorkian was the teams third leading scorer and rounded out the scoring load with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Abdul was a notable perform, he finished with 9 points and 10 boards.

The Bombers were led by Blue who finished with a team high (17 points and 5 rebounds) Jose Vasquez who finished with 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. Jimmy G. (15 points and 8 rebounds) and JR (15 points and 7 rebounds) rounded out the scoring quartet of the Bombers.

Primetime vs. The Bankers

DIVISION 3

Behind a huge game from DJ Romasanta, Primetime gets back on the winning track by defeating the Bankers, by a score of 89 – 53. 

Alex led all Banker scorers with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists on 11/31 shooting from the field. Jerry assisted Alex with the scoring and finished with 7 points and 5 rebounds. Steven rounded out the scoring trio with 6 points and 3 rebounds. 

DJ Romasanta led the way for the Primetime, Romasanta finished with 23 points, and 10 rebounds. Jr. Dizon assisted Romasanta with the scoring load and finished  with 20 points and 3 rebounds, Kevin Lim was the teams third leading scorer with 18 points and 9 rebounds.  Justin Flores rounded out the scoring load with 13 points and 4 rebounds.  The scoring load was spread throughout the team.   __________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Playoff Preview | Division 3

 

The Division 3 playoffs are set to get underway this Sunday, three first round games will be played with the winner of each game moving on to the second round. The #1 Seed UKnow V2 and the #2 Pantera Legends have the week off and will await the winners of these preliminary games in the semi-finals.

#4 Justice League vs. #9 The Bankers

The Division 3 playoffs will get underway this Sunday.The #4 seed Justice League will square off with the #9 seed Bankers in a Preliminary round match-up for the right to take on the winner of the #5 Dirty Homies and #7 Primetime game.

The Justice League would have to be the favorite entering this game, the team finished the regular season with a 5-1 record and seem to have found their groove as a unit. They are led into this match-up by Josey Victorio (18.4 PPG, 3.0 RPG, and 1.4 APG) it is clear that Victorio is the main offensive source for the Justice League. His 50 point performance in Week 4 is just an example of how potent of a scorer Victorio is. Marc Sy-Santos is the teams leading scorer entering the post season averaging (8.8 PPG, and 4.0 RPG) Sy-Santos also leads the team in assists with (2.0 APG). John Robel is the teams offensive option behind Victorio and Sy-Santos, Robel ended the regular season (6.4 PPG, and 5.6 RPG).

The Bankers enter the post-season with a 1-6 record tied for last place in the division. This team comes out firing every game and show a lot of heart and determination. I sincerely applaud their effort week in and week out, however if they want any shot of defeating the Justice League their leading scorer Alex (25.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG and 1.8 APG) will need to have a surreal performance. Justin was the teams second leading scorer during the regular season averaging (9.0 PPG, and 6.0).

The two players from the Bankers listed above, need to put their team on their back and attempt to carry them into the second round. Lets be realistic, after Alex and Justin the Bankers have no other scorer averaging more than (4.5 PPG).

Victorio doesn’t necessarily need to have a big game for the Justice League to advance to next round. Look for him to spread the ball around and get his teammates involved.

I see the Justice League coming away with an easy win, and moving on to the second round. 

#5 Dirty Homies vs. #7 Primetime

When these two teams met in Week 2, it was a heated battle, with the Dirty Homies coming away with 61-57 win. Now six weeks from that faithful Sunday, these two teams will take the court again with a trip to the second round on the line. Its WIN or Go and STAY HOME.

The Dirty Homies have had the season league analysts projected. They finished with a 5-2 record and tied for the #2 seed but fell all the way to the #5 seed due to the point differential tie breaker. The addition of Charlie Hinojosa (16.0 PPG, 7.3 RPG) has paid huge dividends for the Dirty Homies, he is arguably the most dynamic big man in the division. Behind Hinojosa are Jesse Jimenez (10.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.3 APG) and Jesus ‘Chuy” Contreras (10.3 PPG, 12.0 RPG). These three players will lead their teammates into battle with a chance to advance to the second round on the line.

Primetime snagged the #7 seed with their Week 7 blowout win over the Bankers. They are fortunate to have snagged this seed. After a 0-4 start to the season, this team has managed to record two wins over the (Bombers, and The Bankers). Leading Primetime into battle is the sharpshooting Kevin Lim. Lim is averaging (17.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, and 1.0 APG) shooting a division best 25/40 (63%) from 3-Point range. Behind Lim in the scoring column is DJ Romasanta, Romasanta is the teams leading rebounder with (7.8 RPG), Romasanta is also an offensive threat, he is averaging (15.7 PPG) and will be a key player in this playoff game. Justin Flores (11.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.7 SPG) and Jr. Dizon (10.3 PPG, 2.1 RPG) .

Both teams have different styles of play, with the Dirty Homies relying heavily on strong play out of their post players while Primetime relies heavy on their 3-Point shooting. 

This game is a toss-up, however I see Primetime coming away with a 60-54 win. With Kevin Lim “making it rain” on those Dirty Homies.

#6 Bombers vs. #8 Prospectz

One of the more intriguing match-ups in the division will take place when the Bombers and Prospectz take the court.

After an early post season exit last season, the Prospectz revamped the roster with intentions to finish the season ranked #5 or higher. Things didn’t go according as planned, team chemistry issues have contributed to their 2-5 finish. David will enter the playoffs as the Prospectz  go to player, he is averaging (17.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.3 APG, 2.5 SPG), behind David is the TerMINHator, Minh Thong. Thong leads the team in the rebounding column averaging (13.9 RPG), and isn’t an offensive liability, Thong averages (12.7 PPG) and is a force to be reckoned with in the low-post. Joel Torres is the last “key” player for the Prospectz  he is having a career year in all offensive categories. Torres enters the post season as the teams third leading scorer behind David and Thong, he is averaging (11.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG and 1.7 APG).

The Bombers are led into this match-up by Jimmy G. , Jimmy is averaging a team high (17.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.7 APG), Behind Jimmy is Jose Vasquez (9.9 PPG, 6.6 RPG) and Blu (7.4 PPG, 4.1 RPG) these 3 players have led the way for their team all season. Look for them to capitalize on every mistake made by the Prospectz and convert those “mistakes” into points.

If the Prospectz want to be “prosperous” they should ride on the shoulders of Thong and Torres. Chris Adevoso could be the X-Factor for the Prospectz if his 3-Point shot falls early.   

After a hot start to the season, the Bombers dropped a couple of games and have yet to develop a consistent flow.

Intuition tells me the Bombers will take this game and meet Jason Trinh’s Young Money squad in the 8pm match-up.

 

__________________________________________________________________________________
+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Playoff Preview | Division 2

With 7 weeks of the regular season behind us, the real season begins. The #9 seeded Han$um Goonz and #16 DX will kickoff the divisions first round playoff games this upcoming Sunday. Which will lead us to the match up between the #12 seeded #JETS and the #13 seed the  Nut Krackerz. The scene will then shift to the #10 seeded X-Men taking on the #15 seed 5 Guys 1 Cup. The last Preliminary round game of the evening will feature the #11 seeded Warriors taking on the #14 seed Happy Hour.

While these opening round games are taking place, #1 Quiksilver, #2 Double Dribble, #3 Wonton Soup, and #4 Secret Agents will enjoy their first round byes.

• The #5 seeded Cali Raisins will take on the winner of the #JETS vs. Nut Krackerz game.
• The #6 seed UKnow will take the court to battle it out with the winner of the Warriors vs. Happy Hour game.
• The #7 seeded Wet Bandits await the winner of the 5 Guys 1 Cup vs, X-Men game.
• The #8 seed The Revenge will play the winner of the Han$um Goonz vs. DX game.

#9 Han$um Goonz vs. #16 DX

With the #1-#4 Seeds having first round byes , the #9 seeded Han$um Goonz open up the Division 2 playoffs when they take on the #16 seeded team DX. This is the first playoff appearance for both teams, the winner of this game will take on the #8 seed The Revenge in a match-up later in the evening.

Pierce Mayoral leads the team in scoring, he enters the post season as the teams only double-digit performer averaging (10.0 PPG, and 8.6 RPG) . Chris Mayoral is often the teams second offensive option, Mayoral enters the playoffs averaging ( 5.9 PPG and 6.0 RPG). Chris McKeon is the teams third leading scorer entering the playoffs averaging ( 5.3 PPG, and 7.9 RPG). Offense seems hard to come by for this DX team who is averaging 35.0 PPG as a team entering the game, which is a division worst.

The Han$um Goonz enter the post season with Avant Foster (15.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, and 2.8 SPG) leading the team in the scoring column. Foster is the main catalyst that keeps the Goonz offense steadily flowing. Behind Foster is Odis Wishum who is entering the post season averaging (13.7 PPG and 6.3 RPG). Aaron Bell is the teams third offensive option behind Foster and Wishum, Bell is averaging (11.6 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 2.3 APG and 1.6 SPG) a very complete stat line to say the least.

Look for the Goonz to put the game out of reach early as they run their patented full court press. They Goonz are an agile defensive team that have the ability to get on your nerves with their very aggressive defense.  

#12 #JETS vs. #13 Nut Krackerz

The #12 seed #JETS are set to host the #13 seeded Nut Krackerz in the opening round of the Division 2 playoffs. This is the first playoff appearance for both teams, the winner of this game will take on the #5 seeded California Raisins in a match-up later in the evening.

The young man with the sweet lefty stroke Joe-Joe Williams will lead the #JETS into this first round match-up. Williams leads the team in scoring with (25.8 PPG, 7.8 RPG and 1.8 APG).  Matt is the teams second leading scorer and enters the post season averaging, (10.5 PPG, and 5.5 RPG). The third scoring option behind Williams and Matt is the very under utilized Anthony, Anthony enters this game averaging (8.5 PPG, and 3.2 RPG).

For the Nut Krackerz, they will rely on the play of Matt Delfino (17.0 PPG, 6.6 RPG)  to help guide them to a win. Elias Salloum (11.0 PPG, 8.5 RPG), Solin Bit (10.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG and 3.2 APG) and Eric (11.4 PPG and 5.6 RPG)  will all have to step their game up and contribute on the offensive end as well as collect multiple boards if the Nut Krackerz want a shot to move on to the Second Round.

Look For Joe-Joe Williams to have a huge offensive outburst, but the length of the Nut Krackerz will ultimately help guide them to the win. 

#10 X-Men vs. #15 5 Guys 1 Cup

The #10 seeded X-Men are set to host the #15 seed 5 Guys 1 Cup  in the opening round of the Division 2 playoffs. This is the first playoff appearance for the X-Men, and the second for 5 Guys 1 Cup who fell to The Revenge in last seasons playoffs. The winner of this game will take on the #7 seeded Wet Bandits in a match-up later in the evening.

Both these teams have the potential to win a championship, it’s a shame that only one will be remaining after this opening round playoff game. Darren Smith will lead the X-Men into this playoff bout, Smith is averaging  (25.0 PPG, 7.8 RPG and 1.5 APG) through 6 games. Deante Smith is second in command on the X-Men, he enters this game averaging (13.0 PPG and 6.7 RPG) Chris Smith will be the X-Factor for the X-Men, he is an athletic swing man who only averages (6.2 PPG) but his 8.3 RPG help his team out tremendously. Oscar Pacheco (43%) from 3-point range is one of the more accurate shooters in the division if he gets hot early look for his teammates to feed off of him.

On the other side of things for the #15 seeded 5 Guys 1 Cup, they weren’t predicted to be in this position. After achieving a playoff berth last season as a #8 seed it seemed that the 5 Guys had finally peaked. The team however has had a rough season recording only one win, but are still a very capable team.  5 Guys 1 Cup manages to get all players involved in the offense so the scoring is very balanced in the stat book. Jhouan will enter the post season as the teams leading scorer averaging  (11.6 PPG, and 5.8 RPG) Castro has taken a backseat to Jhouan all season and is averaging slightly less in the points column than he did in past seasons. Castro enters the post season averaging (11.3 PPG, and 8.0 RPG). Alex Fernandez (10.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG) is the teams third leading scorer, and leads the team in free-throw percentage at (71%).

#11 Warriors vs. #14 Happy Hour

The #11 seeded Warriors are set to host the #14 seed Happy Hour in the opening round of the Division 2 playoffs. This is the second playoff appearance for both teams, the winner of this game will take on the #6 seed UKnow in a match-up later in the evening.

The Warriors enter the post season led by Lester Cole (11.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG), Kemoy Mathis (11.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG) and George Gerardo (11.0 PPG, 8.7 RPG) . These 3 players are key factors if the Warriors want any shot at advancing to the next round. They would also need a big game from PG Louis Cole (5.1 PPG, 1.7 APG) and a spark of the bench from Ray Sanchez (5.6 PPG, 2.7 RPG).

Happy Hour has had a sub par season to say least. They’ve recorded 2 wins in 7 tries, they are led into this playoff match-up by Reuben Medina (18.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG), James Reyes (12.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG, and Pierre Recinto (12.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG). These 3 players are averaging double figures in the scoring column. A Key Factor for Happy Hour will be the performance of Mike Dorn (7.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG) Dorn has had a sluggish season but in Week 7 looked as if he had finally gotten his groove back, this should be a very competitive game.

I see the Warriors holding on and advancing to play UKnow.

__________________________________________________________________________________ + Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Playoff Preview| Division 1

With 7 weeks of the regular season behind us, the real season begins. #10 The Alliance and #7 The Pack will kickoff the divisions first round playoff games this upcoming Sunday. Which will lead us to the match up between the #6 seeded West Coast Pros and #11 P.A.H.U. The evening will be capped off when #8 Tupac Back takes on #9 Knicee in a match-up of two prolific scorers.

While these opening round games are taking place, #1 Washed Up, #2 I Ball, #3 The Dynasty, #4 Play Makerz and the #5 seeded Morningwood enjoy their first round byes. This should be an intriguing series of games, I wonder what teams could potentially play spoiler in the second round. I’m also wondering how many lower seeded teams will defeat a team seeded higher than them.

#8 Tupac Back vs. #9 Knicee

After 7 Weeks of play the #8 Tupac Back and #9 Knicee are ready to begin the “chase to the championship”. Both teams enter the game with a sensible 3-4 record. After huge expectations for both teams preceding the season, both teams managed to scrape up a few wins on their way to this playoff match-up.

Tupac Back secured the #8 seed in the point differential tie breaker and seem adequately prepared for this playoff run, even though they forfeited their Week 7 match-up with P.A.H.U, due to personnel issues or lack thereof. The man in the middle Jordan Block leads the way for this team, he enters the playoffs averaging (22.0 PPG, 6.8 RPG).  Below Block on the stat sheet is Eric Williams  (12.0 PPG and 4.8 RPG), Paul King finished the season as the teams third leading scorer with (11.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG). These are the three key performers for Tupac Back in this playoff game.

Knicee is led into this first round match-up by MVP Candidate Kenneth Ubom (28.6 PPG, 5.9 RPG) Ubom has been the cornerstone of Knicee’s offense all season. Behind Ubom is big man Odell Howard, Howard enters the post season averaging (8.7 PPG and 7.8 RPG) but has yet to make a significant difference in any game this season. Anthony Barajas (6.4 PPG, and 2.0 RPG) is a key factor for Knicee he is an agile player who can cause havoc if left unguarded.

The key component for Tupac Back will simply be “Can Tupac Back Stop Kenneth Ubom?”

The key component for Knicee will be trying to contain Jordan Blocks elusive post game.This should be a great game between two of the divisions most prolific scorers.

The winner of this game advances to play the #1 seed Washed Up.

#7 The Pack vs. #10 The Alliance

The Pack (3-4) as well as everyone other team, entered the season with high hopes to earn a playoff berth and play for a championship, they’ve had an above par season hanging in tough and defeating a championship caliber team in the Play Makerz in Week 6.

GM Craig Crampton has done quite a job putting together a roster worthy of competing for IBL’s most elusive prize.

The Pack is led into this playoff match-up by their leading scorer Tyler who enters this playoff match up averaging (11.8 PPG and 7.8 RPG), Luke is the teams second leading scorer averaging (11.3 PPG and 2.3 RPG). Lonnie Rivera is the third leading scorer for The Pack entering the playoffs averaging (11.0 PPG and 8.2 RPG), Sam Nogales is the X-Factor for The Pack he enters the game averaging (10.9 PPG and 4.3 RPG) and was a key factor in their Week 1 win over then STAT now The Alliance.

The Alliance has had a rough road to this point, they’ve had several personnel issues through-out the season, but have pulled it together for this playoff run. Although they’ve lost their last 3 regular season games entering the playoffs the teams leading scorer Jaime Villalobos (19.0 PPG and 6.0 RPG) has finally broken out of his shell and is back to the Jaime Villalobos that won the Division 1 MVP award back in Season 3.

Big Man Ralph Chavez (17.8 PPG and 9.3 RPG) has been a key contributor all season for this Alliance team, he already has two 30+ point games this season. Chavez however becomes a huge liability on the defensive end when fatigue kicks in so look for Aaron Sanchez (14.0 PPG, and 5.0 RPG) to come off the bench and give his team a push. Sanchez has yet to reach his full potential in the division, so look for him to have a big game. Jairo Lopez (10.5 PPG, 1.3 APG) and Jimmy Nguyen (10.0 PPG, 3.4 APG)  are two of the many three-point threats for this Alliance team, look for these two players to have many wide open looks due to the drive and kick game which this team has seemed to master in the past few weeks.

In their Week 1 victory over The Alliance, The Pack relied heavily on the play of George Lewis (20 Points, 8 Rebounds) who had a monster game in the post.  The Alliance however was without the services of Chavez, Villalobos, Lopez and Desean Collins who joined the team weeks after. The Week 1 game went down to the wire, look for this game to be the same way. 

The winner of this game advances to play the #2 seed I Ball.

#6 West Coast Pros. vs. #11 P.A.H.U

Besides the game above, this is one of the more intriguing match-ups of the first round. #6 West Coast Pros. takes on #11 P.A.H.U. These two teams always bring intensity and passion when they take the court.

The West Coast Pros. seem to have finally figure out their personnel issues that have haunted them a few weeks back. After nearly giving up a 20 point lead in Week 7 they held on to defeat the Alliance to end their season with a (3-4) record and secure the #6 seed. They seem poised and ready for the playoffs.

For P.A.H.U this has been a rocky season to say the least. The bright spot for them this season was their 68-72 loss to the #1 seeded Washed Up in Week 3. Why is a loss a bright spot you ask? Well it shows this team is capable of hanging with the divisions élite.

The West Coast Pros. are led by  high-flyer Shawn Sawyer (18.0 PPG, 6.2 RPG), Josh, (15.4 PPG, 8.4 RPG) and Charles Grays (11.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG). The West Coast Pros. have an offense that consists of dumping the ball in Josh on the post. Shawn Sawyer is a perennial 3-point threat.  Also Donnel Fleming (7.5 PPG, 2.5 RPG) and Daimon Fleming (7.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG)  may be a problem for the opposition. Both are energy filled players who shoot the gap to pick of passes come away with steals.

Gary McNellys Jr. leads his team into this playoff match-up averaging (19.3 PPG, 5.2 RPG and 1.3 APG)  McNellys can get hot and I mean hot. He is shooting 44% from 3 point land and will be a key factor if P.A.H.U wants their season to be extended another Week. Assisting McNellys with the offense with be Anthony (9.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG) and Mike who is averaging (8.8 PPG, and 3.8 RPG) these will be the 3 players behind P.A.H.U offensive attack.

The winner of this game advances to play the #3 seed The Dynasty.

#4 Play Makerz vs. #5 Morningwood

These two teams headlined the season opener when they met in Week 1. The Play Makerz came out on top in the “clash of the titans” and seemed unscathed to say the least, after a 80-61 romping of the defending champs. Now seven weeks after their initial match-up these teams will square off  with bragging rights and a chance to advance further in the playoffs on the line.

Both teams finished with a (4-3) record and have had their fair shares of ups and downs this season. In pursuit of their unprecedented 5th Division Championship Morningwood enters the game with a mediocre 4-3 record. They do not seem ready to defend their championship.

I’ve had several interviews with several players that claim the team is indeed “in turmoil” (players not fulfilling their roles, arguing amongst the team, and they’ve lost the competitive edge that set them apart from the competition the past couple of seasons) reports also claim this could very well be their last season together as a unit. This season is reminiscent of Season 3 when Morningwood was defeated by Primetime in the Division Semi Finals. That could very well be the scenario in this upcoming match up.

Diahnte “D-Smooth” Pickett led his troops into battle all season and will enter the playoffs as the teams leading scorer, averaging (13.0 PPG, 1.0 SPG).  The big man Dewayne O’Neal has had a significant drop off from his MVP season in Season 5, with statistical decreases in points and rebounds. O’Neal enters the playoffs averaging (11.4 PPG, and 7.7 RPG) after entering last seasons playoffs averaging a double-double (15.9 PPG, 14.0 RPG).  Below O’Neal on the stat sheet is the other half of the Pickett brothers Derrick Pickett (10.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG) Pickett is also averaging career lows in points and rebounds. Rich Cobarrubias enters the playoffs as the teams fourth leading scorer, but he however is averaging career lows in points (7.2 PPG) and three-point field goal percentage (32%).

The Play Makerz are led into this first round match-up by Johnnie Green (21.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG) Green has been the cornerstone of  the Play Makerz offense for the entire season and is 1 of the 2 players on his team to have played in all seven regular season games this season. Behind Green is high-flyer Aesh Dabbas who is averaging (18.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG) Dabbas was a key contributor in their Week 7 match-up with The Alliance, he finished with (20 points and 12 rebounds). Amos Battle will be a key contributor in this game, he finished the season as the teams third leading scorer and will enter the playoffs averaging (16.0 PPG, and 2.0 RPG). This will no doubt be a high scoring affair, the key component for  Morningwood would have to be defense, they gave up 80 points (season high) to the Play Makerz in Week 1 which is inexcusable for a championship team they should also limit “highlight plays” such as dunks, things like that seem to fuel a team and give them energy.

The key component for the Play Makerz would have to be to get all  players to the game and play the way they played in Week 1. They’ve already defeated this team and are poised to do so for a second time. Retribution is on the mind of Morningwood players, look for this game to be an IBL Classic. With a loss this may very well be the final chapter in Morningwoods IBL book.  

The Winner of this game will move on to play the winner of the #1 Washed Up vs. #8 Tupac Back/ #9 Knicee game.

__________________________________________________________________________________

+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Nathan Apolonio.

Dear NBA

Dear NBA, As a BIG fan of the league, I was truly optimistic throughout this whole lockout ordeal. Now I am truly disgusted on how the players as well as the owners forgot who they really work for. They forgot who pays for their million dollar mansions and expensive cars. We the fans are the reason they are able to play a game, for millions of dollars! We are the ones who choose to spend our hard-earned money on team merchandise and tickets to watch our favorite teams play. Yes, we understand that the NBA is a business. We as fans are the consumers. What successful business out there chooses not to take care of their customers??

By continuing this fiasco of the NBA lockout, it is clear, the NBA and its players DO NOT CARE at all about their consumers, aka us the fans. I am writing this letter in hopes that it will go viral and be seen by the players and the owners of the NBA. I want them to know that they just lost a diehard fan, and I’m SURE, I am not the only one.

 

Sincerely, Ex NBA Fan

-Aaron Sanchez