Season 6 | Nates Notes| Division 1 | Championship Recap

   DIVISION 3 2011 Fall, SEASON 6
Championship Recap
by: Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

 #1 Washed Up vs. #3 The Dynasty

Michael Criscione and the men of Washed Up win the IBL Division 1 Championship after defeating the Dynasty, 54-49, in what seems to be the beginning of a new era in the IBL.

The Men of Washed Up finally accomplished their goal set 10 Weeks ago and that was to win the Division 1 Championship. They came in with a renewed focus, and that showed in the 9 games they played this season, going 9-0 through those 9 games.

Coming out of the gate, Washed Up seemed focused and ready to capture the championship. They went with a different strategy. Instead of letting Holden go wild like they did in their first match up (22 points, 18 rebounds), they decided to blanket him on defense, and in doing so the Dynasty had trouble finding the basket. However, the presence of another athletic swingman Buai Tut  was missed. There were several possession where Washed Up crashed the offensive glass and came away with second chance points due to their size.

It was the worst time for Travon Caples (Tren) to have a bad shooting night. He was just throwing up bricks.  Washed Up, in the meantime, enjoyed the scrappy game. Justin Lamar (8 points, 14 rebounds) was getting in front of Holden for easy lay-ups, and André Lyons was overpowering the Dynasty under the basket.

Walter (13 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals) did step up as the Dynasty’s 2nd offensive option and did all he could, throughout the game. Both teams decided to ride their starters for the majority of the fourth quarter. It seemed like it affected the Dynasty more than Washed Up as the Dynasty’s defense wasn’t flying around like the first three-quarters, they were fatigued due to their limited bench. Washed Up got more aggressive in the fourth quarter and was finally able to put the game away at the free throw line.

As mentioned, Tren only shot 7/21… but he did end up with 18 points and 3 rebounds. Walter had a big game with 13 points, 6 rebounds, a assists and 3 steals. O.Collins came up big as well with 10 points and 10 boards.

Two Washed Up starters had double figures… and they were led by Finals MVP Johnny Earl with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists.  Earl also took notably less shots shooing 5/8 from the field. André Lyons was key to this victory with his 14 points and 14 rebounds.

Also, the battle of the boards belonged to  Washed Up. Washed Up had 39 rebounds compared to the Dynasty’s 32.

Washed Up had a huge edge on the glass, and while Holden is arguably a better offensive player (still a great post player), Buai Tut’s lanky body was missed as he would’ve helped prevent Washed Up from getting the boards.

For the Dynasty, it was an improbable playoff run. Very few thought they would make it this far and yet they missed a championship by only five points.

But as for the men of Washed Up? It’s mission accomplished, and a job well done.

MVP:

André “Dreno” Lyons was named finals MVP after his huge game.

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Division 2 | Championship Recap

DIVISION 2

2011 Fall, SEASON 6
Championship Recap
by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

#2 Double Dribble vs. #4 Secret Agents

What an amazing game this was. Both teams entered this game fresh off wins over the teams that eliminated them from last season’s playoffs. The Secret Agents ran over Quiksilver while Double Dribble finally got over the hump by beating Wonton Soup. Which in the process dethroned the reigning champs.

The Secret Agents were oh-so close to closing the door on Double Dribble. Not just their season but perhaps on their run in the IBL. But  Double Dribble just wouldn’t go away, both teams fought and fought HARD! The final result a 73-71 victory with Double Dribble walking away with their 2nd IBL Championship trophy (1st in Division 2) .

Late in the game, everything just seemed to click for the Double Dribble. They played great defense on Secret Agents G Darryial Morris (8 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists) and just controlled the tempo late after an injury to the Secret Agents 3 point specialist Teron Mack (9 points, 3 rebounds).

To say that the 2nd half was interesting is an understatement. The game stayed close until the Secret Agents appeared to pull away, behind the play of Lonnie Bradshaw (22 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist). The Secret Agents built a sizable lead and all indications were that Double Dribble would once again fall in the championship round. However Double Dribble began cutting into the lead by attacking the basket and it worked. With a hobbled defender the Secret Agents seemed to be playing 4 on 5 late in the game. Double Dribble took a 4 point  lead with under a minute remaining but a clutch 3 point shot by Terrail Thomas (20 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists) cut  the lead to 1, where they would have to play the fouling game. Derrick Pickett stepped up to the line and knocked down one of two free throws. which sealed the game.

Double Dribble had four guys in double figures. Derrick Pickett had a beastly 26 points, and 7 rebounds, performance while Giovanni Valentine had his usual numbers with 15 points and 4 rebounds. Andrae Lockett came off the bench to score 11 points and 2 rebounds while Diahnte Pickett finished off the final round with 12 points and 3 rebounds.

Rudy Williams (Secret Agents) had 12 points and 5 rebounds, but was virtually a non factor in the second half.

The Secret Agents definitely overachieved this season and they should be proud of that. They should also know that they can do the same thing again next year. That is, if they add more pieces to their 5-6 man roster, they might actually be a favorite to win it all.

MVP: 

Derrick Pickett was named Finals MVP after his huge game which propelled Double Dribble to their first championship in the Division.

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Division 3 | Championship Recap

 DIVISION 3 2011 Fall, SEASON 6

Championship Recap

by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

#1 UKnow V2 vs. #3 Young Money

The Inland Basketball League Season 6 Championship Weekend kicked off with a thriller in the Division 3 Finals.  For the second straight season, a #1 seed (UKnow V2)  was in the championship game. However this time around a #2 seed wasn’t their opponent. The #2 seeded Pantera Legends who were also the Divisions reigning champions fell to #3 seed Young Money in the Semi-Finals which ultimately led up to a match-up with these two teams, and the final result a 51-48 overtime win for UKnow, who capture their first Division 3 Championship, they also become the first #1 seed to do so.

UKnow (7-1) entered the game oddly as the under dog. When the two teams met in Week 5, Young Money came away with a 62-50 win. So it was only natural that Young Money would enter this game as the favorite to walk away with the division’s most prestigious prize. The two teams had their fair shares of regular season success with UKnow  capping off a nearly perfect regular season with a (6-1)  record,  their only loss coming at the hands of Young Money. Young Money finished with a (5-2) record, with their two losses coming at the hands of Brea Jr. 7:30 in Week 2 and the Bombers in Week 3.

So this was the big game, dubbed as “the payback” and both teams came to play. Young Money started the game trying to take advantage of the height disparity between the two teams, but that seemed far-fetched due to UKnow’s renewed focus on the defensive end. YM seemed confused on offense at times, and for the majority of the first half, YM found it to be a hard task to adjust to the pressure UKnow was applying. However as the game progressed the YMCMB camp seemed to find offense from their leader Robel Kevorkian, Kevorkian shouldered the offensive load for the his YM team all game and led the team in scoring with 20 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists.

While Young Money invested their offense in Kevorkian’s play, UKnow did the same with Anthony Cockrell, he was the teams lone source of offense. Cockrell led all scorers for the game as he finished with 26 points and 2 rebounds. The game was fairly close throughout the first half with UKnow controlling the pace of the game and building a 5 point lead and seeing it cut to 2 going into the half.

Before the second half got underway UKnow’s GM told his players “Basketball is a game of runs!, we can either prevent it or we will lose this game” his players seemed to understand the message but not quite. Young Money found their offensive groove mid second half, when they went to the line on a string of 3 point play opportunities at the line, in large part to feeding Abdul Aziz (7 points, 8 rebounds) the ball in the post where he would be “hacked”. Young Money took a 37-31 lead mid second half, and all the momentum seemed to be in their favor. That is until UKnow began crashing the offensive boards for easy putbacks, one of the players crashing the boards was Josh Johnson (5 points and 6 rebounds), Johnson had a terrible shooting game, as usual but he managed to become a factor by doing the small things to help his team.

Both teams struggled from the field, UKnow was fortunate however to have YM struggle in the final minutes while they erased a 5 point lead with a 1:30 left in regulation. Clutch 3 point shots by Brandon Kinard (5 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists) and Anthony Cockrell tied the game at 46-46. Young Money had a chance to win the game in regulation but a charging foul was called as Jason Trinh (5 points, 3 rebounds) drove to the basket and literally ran over a UKnow player.  The game ultimately extended into overtime with UKnow making key plays down the stretch. The biggest play of overtime was a shot by Anthony Cockrell that grazed the rim, which was chased down by Josh Johnson who saved it from going out-of-bounds under the basket, by dishing it to Desean Collins (6 points, 2 rebounds) who hit a wide open 3 point shot to extend UKnows lead to 50-47, with under 30 secs remaining.

Mark Garcia (8 points, 5 rebounds) was Young Moneys offense in the extra period, getting to the line on numerous occasions, but a few empty possessions for this team caused them the game.

A very well-played game from both teams, Young Money had the game won but gave it away in the final minutes of regulation, and the rest is history. UKnow V2, Season 6 IBL DIVISION 3 Champions.

Finals MVP 

Anthony Cockrell was awarded the Finals MVP for his huge contributions to his team.

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Playoffs | Second Round Recap | Division 2

#1 Quiksilver vs. #8 The Revenge

Harry Yoo poured in 13 points and 10 rebounds while Justin Virgil donated 11 points and 3 rebounds in Quiksilver ‘s 64-44 win over The Revenge.

The Revenge was led by Armando Aranda who finished with 19 points, and 11 rebounds, Derrick Okoth was the teams second leading scorer with 9 points and 3 rebounds, Abdul Aziz rounded out the scoring load with 6 points and 2 rebounds.

Behind Harry Yoo and Justin Virgil was Minh Thong. Thong finished with 8 points and 10 rebounds.  Brandon Kinard and John Dang finished 8 points apiece to round out all scorers.  Dang pulled in an astonishing 13 boards while Kinard dished out 4 assists.

#4 Secret Agents vs. #5 California Raisins

Rudy shined in what amounted to a break out game, scoring 24 points and grabbing seven rebounds, as the Secret Agents put the game out of reach early in the second half, defeating the California Raisins, 77-56.

Korey Davis led the Raisins in scoring with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist. Kevin Chow finished with 13 points and 3 rebounds. Leading scorer Dominic Tiger-Cortes was held to a season low 11 points, and 5 rebounds and Kwasi Mensah rounded out the scoring load with 9 points and 8 rebounds.

The Secret Agents had a very balanced offensive attack, Rudy led the way in the scoring column, Rudy finished with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Lonnie Bradshaw was the teams second leading scorer with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Terrail Thomas recorded 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Teron Mack finished with 13 points and 5 boards while Darryial Morris rounded out the Secret Agents top performers with 10 points and 8 rebounds.

#2 Double Dribble vs. #10 X-Men

Derrick Pickett finished with 27 points and Andrae Lockett scored 24, as Double Dribble pulled away to beat the X-Men, 87-67.

Darren Smith led all X-Men scorers for the game with 28 points, and 5 rebounds. Deante Smith finished with 18 points, 4 boards and 7 blocks. Chris Smith rounded out the scoring trio with 8 points, and 10 rebounds.

Behind Derrick Pickett and Andrae Lockett was Jesse Jimenez, Jimenez finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. A very complete game for the point guard. Jesus Contreras was the teams fourth leading scorer with 13 points and 16 rebounds.

#3 Wonton Soup vs. #14 Happy Hour

Despite the 68-65 win, time is running out for the reigning champs Wonton Soup to capture their 4th Division Championship. Teams have loaded up in trying to stop them and with two games remaining on their pursuit for a championship, the #3 seed should not come away with a 3 point win over a #14 seed.

Reuben Medina led the way for Happy Hour, he finished with 33 points and 2 rebounds. James Reyes assisted his teammate with the scoring load and finished with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Pierre Recinto rounded out the scoring trio for Happy Hour, Recinto finished with 9 points and 7 rebounds.

Aaron Sanchez was the Wonton Soups leading scorer with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Jaime Villalobos finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Trevor Sankey rounded out the scoring load with a near double-double finishing with 12 points and 8 boards.

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

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Playoffs | Division 1 | 2nd Round & Semi-Finals Recap

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

 2nd Round Recap 

By: Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

Like I said on the Division 3 recaps, I probably should have started this recap days ago, but today the Chris Paul trade/trade block caught my attention and I was fighting off Laker haters with my iron fist.

With that aside, the Division 1 Second Round and Semi-Finals took place this past Sunday with 8 teams starting the day and 2 teams ending the day with a match-up in place for this Sunday. The 4 time champions of the division, Morningwood was dethroned by Washed Up and will miss the Championship game for the 2nd time in 6 seasons. History has it that the team that defeats Morningwood in the playoffs goes on to lose in the Championship game. The first and only team being Primetime in Season 3, who defeated Morningwood in the semi-finals and falling to eventual champions Do Work.

The two teams will be the #1 seed Washed Up and the #3 seed The Dynasty. These two teams met in Week 2 with Washed Up coming away with a decisive win but this time around the game should be closer.

 

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

DIVISION 1

In Sunday’s Division 1 quarterfinal match-up, the #3 seed The Dynasty ,  knocked off the #6 seeded West Coast Pros., by a margin of 67-66.

Tray Caples (Tren) put The Dynasty on his back late in regulation and forced overtime with a tip in, as time in the closing seconds of regulation.

As always the Dynasty had a balanced offensive attack with Tray Caples leading the way with 29 points and 6 rebounds.Holden finished the game as the teams second leading scorer with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Buai Tut and Walter were the teams third and fourth leading scorers with 11 points apiece. Walter also pulled in 5 rebounds and 2 assist. While Tut grabbed 6 rebounds and dished out  3 assists.

#2 IBall vs. #7 The Pack

DIVISION 1

Lonnie Rivera had 26 points and 10 rebounds and the #7 seed The Pack staved off elimination Sunday with a shocking 64-53 victory over the #2 seed IBall in the Division 1 quarterfinals. 

The sharpshooter Luke was The Pack’s second leading scorer.  Luke finished with 17 points on 5/10 shooting from downtown. Tyler rounded out the top scorers with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists.

Mauricio and Lester led the way for IBall, both players finishing with 13 points apiece. Lester added 3 assists and pulled in 7 rebounds. While Mauricio pulled in 8 boards. Justin assisted the duo with an 11 point, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists performance. Adam was the teams fourth leading scorer with 10 points and 3 rebounds.

The Pack came into the game with a game plan an executed that plan to perfection, coming away with the surprise win over the higher seeded IBall.

#1 Washed Up vs. #8 Tupac Back

DIVISION 1

The #1 seeded Washed Up  squad edged the #8 seeded Tupac Back, by a count of 67-64. In Sunday’s quarterfinal game.

Paul King led the way for Tupac Back in this quarterfinal loss. King finished with a team high 16 Points and 4 rebounds, behind King on the stat sheet was Eric, who finished with 15 points, and 3 rebounds. Team GM Jordan Block rounded out the team’s top scorers with an 11 point, 8 rebound performance on his 23rd birthday.

Johnny Earl led the his Washed Up team with 21 points on 6/12 shooing for the field. André Lyons finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists. Justin R. was the teams third leading scorer, he finished with 15 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Dominic Smith rounded out the scoring trio with 7 points, and 4 steals.

#4 Play Makerz vs. #5 Morningwood

DIVISION 1

Derrick Pickett  poured in 18 points and pulled down three rebounds, as the reigning champs #5 Morningwood held off the #4 seeded Play Makerz, 56-50.

Johnnie Green notched a team-high 22 points on an efficient 8/11 shooting performance. Green also pulled in 3 rebounds. Aesh Dabbas chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds. Jermaine Hardin finished with 6 points to round out the scoring trio of the Play Makerz.

Behind Derrick Pickett’s 18 points was his brother Diahnte Pickett. The SG finished with 10 points and 3 rebounds to help guide his team to a win. Rich Cobarrubias was the teams third leading scorer, with 8 points and 5 boards. No other performer for Morningwood had a significant offensive impact on the game. Reigning MVP Dewayne O’Neal finished with 7 rebounds and 4 blocks.

Second Round

#7 The Pack vs. #3 The Dynasty

DIVISION 1

Buai Tut  finished with 19 points to lead the #3 seed The Dynasty, as they pulled out an 63-58 victory over the #7 seed The Pack in Sundays semi-final game.

Behind Tut was Holden who finished with 17 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals and 4 blocks. After his 29 point outburst in the second round, Tray Caples cooled off significantly and was the teams third leading scorer in this playoff match-up, Tren finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists to round out the top scorers for The Dynasty.

After a hot shooting exhibition in the second round. Luke remained hot in this semi-finals match up and led all scorers on The Pack with 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals on 6/12 shooting from 3 point range. Lonnie Rivera was the teams second leading scorer. Rivera finished with 15 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists. Tyler was third in command for The Pack, Tyler finished with 14 points and 4 rebounds. George Lewis and Craig Crampton rounded out the team’s top scorers; both players finished with 5 points and 4 rebounds. Crampton had a field day dishing out assists and finished with 6 dimes to go along with his 5 points and 4 rebounds.

A fine season for The Pack all around. They came up just one game short of reaching the Championship after seasons of mediocrity. The leadership of Craig Crampton has really put this team over the top and made them serious contenders in a short amount of time. I can’t wait to see what they bring to the table in Season 7.

#1 Washed Up vs. #5 Morningwood

DIVISION 1

Johnny Earl finished with 34 points and 5 rebounds, and Washed Up jumped all over the reigning champions Morningwood early en route to a 76-60 victory.

Jesse Jimenez (12 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steals), Marcus Pringle (12 points, 5 rebounds) , and Diahnte Pickett (12 points) were Morningwoods leading scorers for this debacle. Dewayne O’Neal and Derrick Pickett both finished with 10 points in what is presumably the teams last game as a unit.

Johnny Earl led the his Washed Up team with 34 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists on 12/22 (55%) shooing for the field. Justin R. finished with 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. GM Michael Criscione. was the teams third leading scorer, Big Smoove finished with 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists. André Lyons rounded out the scoring trio with 8 points, and 15 rebounds.

__________________________________________________________________________________

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

Season 6 | Nates Notes| Playoffs | Division 3 | Semi Finals Recap

DIVISION 3

2011 Fall, SEASON 6

Semi Finals Recap

by Nathan Apolonio/ @TheHomieNate

 

I probably should have started this recap  days ago, but I was to intrigued by the return of the NBA to even pull myself away from the television just to tweet, let alone blog. (Translation: L.A.Z.Y.) But here I am and here we are, the IBL Division 3 semi-finals took place this past Sunday with the final four remaining teams in the playoffs. #1 UKnow V2 came away with a thrilling overtime victory over the #4 seed the Justice League. While on the other side of the brackets, the #3 seed Young Money eliminated the reigning champions Pantera Legends with a 74-68 win.

#1 UKnow V2 vs. #4 Justice League

DIVISION 3

Fans at Sunday’s playoff game between the #4 seed Justice League and the host #1 seed UKnow V2 , saw UKnow V2’s basketball squad narrowly escape with a 50-47 overtime victory over the Justice League to secure their spot in the Championship game this Sunday.

Leomar Locholo led the way for the Justice League finishing with a team/game high 16 points, 3 boards, 2 assists, and 3 steals. Josey Victorito, assisted Locholo with the scoring load, Victorito finished with 13 points, and 3 rebounds. Brandon pulled in 9 boards to go along with his 10 points which rounded out the team’s top performers. 

Albert Suitley was the high man for UKnow V2, shooting 7/10 from the field to finish with 18 points, and 7 rebounds. Anthony Cockrell assisted Suitley with the scoring load, Cockrell finished with 12 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal. Brandon Kinard rounded out the team’s top 3 performers with 9 points and 6 rebounds.

 

 

#2 Pantera Legends vs. #3 Young Money

DIVISION 3

Young Money supporters were pleased last Sunday as they saw their basketball squad dethrone the reigning champions A 74-68 victory over the Pantera Legends was the result of a focused and hungry team eager to get their first championship. With the win Young Money advances to the championship where they will take on the #1 seed UKnow V2 .

Young Money was led by Robel Kevorkian who finished with a team high 21 points and 10 rebounds on 9/16 shooting from the field.  Mark Garcia was the teams second leading scorers with 18 points and 4 rebounds shooting an efficient 7/7 from the field.  Zeke Benedetti was the teams third leading scorer and rounded out the scoring load with 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist. Jason Trinh was a notable performer, he finished with 10 points, 4 boards and 3 assists.

Richard Hak led the way for the Pantera Legends, finishing with 24 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist. Anthony Barajas and Francis Vu assisted Hak. Both players finished with 14 points each, Vu finished with 4 rebounds, while Barajas pulled in 9 boards. The teams leading scorer Dylan Liebelt had a mediocre game finishing with 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Liebelt never seemed to be in the offensive groove that he’s usually in.

 

 __________________________________________________________________________________

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

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Semi-Finals Preview| Division 2

#1 Quiksilver vs. #4 Secret Agents

It’s the fourth seeded Secret Agents (5-2) against the number one seed Quiksilver (6-1) in a match-up that looks to be even on paper. The Secret Agents have been unable to beat Quiksilver in IBL play since their inception in Season 5. The Secret Agents are riding a 2 game win streak entering the game and seem poised to avenge last season’s loss to Quiksilver in the quarterfinal round.

The #1 seeded Quiksilver team is loaded with point scorers. Point guard Brandon Kinard (14.3 ppg. 3.9 rpg, 3.0 apg) is nursing his bad knees but thus far has not let that slow him down. Shooting guard Justin Virgil (10.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.9 apg)  brings some good hands to the team, averaging 1.1 spg. Center Harry Yoo (14.4 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 1.4 apg) can bang inside, while forward Anthony Barajas (9.0 ppg, 4.3 rpg, ) offers exceptional a back bone for Yoo in the post.

The point guard edge definitely goes to the Secret Agents with Terrail Thomas (16.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.9 apg, and 1.3 spg), who has managed throughout the regular season and playoffs to figure out how to score.  However against the Quiksilver this season, Thomas had a sub par game. Can he break through in this game? Behind Thomas is Teron Mack, Mack is averaging 13.1 ppg, and 4.0 rpg, and has played his best basketball as of late. Darryiall Morris (10.3 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.9 apg and 1.9 spg) and Lonnie Bradshaw (11.8 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 1.3 APG) brings quickness and sound rebounding skills to the court. He’ll have his hands full with the big men of Quiksilver.

Prediction:

• The Secret Agents features a flexible front-court, with a couple of guys who can hit from just about anywhere. They are fast and bold. Their back-court knows how to play defense. Quiksilver possesses some good firepower and fine upfront defense. The question is—can the Secret Agents stop Quiksilvers streak?

• The depth of Quiksilver will prove to be more than the Secret Agents can handle and Quiksilver will return to the Championship game when it is all said and done.

#2 Double Dribble vs. #3 Wonton Soup

This will be a heated rivalry match-up between two of the divisions powerhouses. These two teams have met in the past 3 post seasons with Wonton Soup coming away with victories in all 3 meetings. None more hurtful than the first which was in the Divisions championship game. Wonton Soup won the game and has had a strangle hold on the division since.

Double Dribble seeks retribution for their past 3 post season exits and are the favorite to come away with the win. Wonton Soup seems to be confused, their 68-65 victory over Happy Hour in the quarterfinals in the narrowest margin of victory for this team in any playoff match-up.

Alone Diahnte Pickett, Derrick Pickett, or Andrae Lockett are tough to contain; together, they’re nearly impossible to shut down. Both Pickett’s have the ability to create their own shot, and by doing so they lure in extra defenders which leaves Lockett open for the 3 point shot.  Sure  Double Dribble can score; they did that all season, but late in the season they proved that they could also play “D.”

Diahnte Pickett is a stellar, big play guy. At guard, he’s sure handed and able to see and create scoring opportunity after scoring opportunity. He leads the team in scoring, entering this contest averaging 18.6 ppg. and 2.9 rpg.  Derrick Pickett, at forward-guard, is a dynamic player. Pickett enters this match-up averaging 16.7 ppg., 9.4 rpg, and 1.6 apg. Guard Andrae Lockett offers some additional scoring, but for Double Dribble their game lives and dies by the play of the Pickett’s. Key contributors would be Jesse Jimenez (8.4 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 3.4 apg) and Giovanni Valentine (10.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg)

It’s clear to everyone that the best power forward in the division is Aaron Sanchez (18.8 ppg, 12.1 rpg, 1.6 apg), behind Sanchez would be the best player on the court Jaime Villalobos. Villalobos actually had an average regular season averaging 12.3 ppg and 5.9 rpg. Villalobos came alive in the teams last playoff game with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Villalobos is very versatile.  If he’s not hitting shots, he’s an exceptional playmaker and will get the ball to the open guy. On defense, Villalobos possesses the quickness of a “minute-man” and the reflexes of a cat. All kidding aside, these qualities will be extremely helpful against Double Dribbles Derrick Pickett. Jamaal Logan  is the teams third scoring option, Logan is averaging 10.1 ppg and 1.8 apg.  Trevor Sankey to the line-up proved to be crucial as his 12 points and 8 rebounds were key to Wonton Soup escaping the previous round with a win.

Prediction: 

• These teams match-up nicely, but Wonton Soup has a much better three-point game and they are a cohesive unit, with many of these guys having played together for numerous seasons. With both teams boasting of sound defenses, this should be a very intense and chippy game withe the developing on/off court feud with Jesse Jimenez and Josh Johnson, expect a lot of jawing back and forth.

• I see Double-Dribble finally getting over the hump and defeating the reigning champs in a close game.

__________________________________________________________________________________

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

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Championship Game Preview| Division 1

 

#1 Washed Up vs. #3 The Dynasty

Frankly, the only constants of the Washed Up throughout the season have been the gamesmanship of Johnny Earl and the Zen cool of GM Michael Criscione. Certainly, these two competitors are leading  Washed Up’s charge to make amends for last season’s Semi-Finals debacle versus Morningwood,in which they partially avenged this season with a semifinals win over Morningwood. However teams don’t play games to win “semi-finals” games, The ultimate prize is a Division Championship.

Of course, The Dynasty stands ready to block that road.

Nobody expected the Dynasty to be here. Well no one but me.

The third-seeded Dynasty team has a dynamic club that can run the floor, shoot and defend. They rattled off 4 wins during the regular season. They’re anchored by MVP Candidates Holden, Buai Tut and Tray Caples (Tren).

Ironically, the Dynasty was completely written off after their first game as an athletic, finesse ball club that could not compete with the powerhouses, Washed Up, Morningwood and the Play Makerz etc.

Washed Up is a team with weapons, including the ever-dangerous Johnny Earl, tough guy André Lyons and tenacious big man Justin R.

Earl, at guard, is key to Washed Up’s success. He leads the team in scoring, averaging 25.6 PPG, and has proven to be a clutch performer. He’s had a superstar season.

SEASON RECORDS

Washed Up: 6-0 (No. 1 seed)
Dynasty: 4-3 (No. 3 seed)

SEASON SERIES

Washed Up defeated The Dynasty in the Dynasty’s IBL début. (71-58)

OFFENSE/DEFENSE RANKING

Washed Up: Offense 69.0 ppg; Defense 60.3 ppg
Dynasty: Offense 74.4 ppg ; Defense 68.6 ppg

OUTLOOK:

Washed Up’s frontcourt trio of Michael Earl, André Lyons and Justin Lamar is one of the best in the league. They can all score and defend, which makes things tough for opponents at both ends of the court.

Inside, forward Holden, and outside, guard Tray Caples (Tren) make this team run and win. Holden is the team’s go-to player, while Tren offers consistency.

The Dynasty will try to wear Washed Up down with their up tempo game, while attempting to neutralize the Washed Up’s stellar inside moves.

The Numbers: 

In the front-court, Holden can block, rebound and score. He is his teams second leading scorer  with 19.1 ppg and first in rebounds per game with 9.1. For playmaking and clutch play, Tray Caples (Tren) is the Dynasty’s go-to guy. Averaging 22.9 PPG and 4.3 RPG. Buai Tut is a durable swing-man, he is the teams third leading scorer with 17.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg, and 2.4 apg. Tut is a reliable workhorse who offers consistent, athletic play. SG Walter has stepped up, and will be the teams fourth notable performer entering the game averaging 11.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg.

Washed Up is led into the game by leading MVP candidate Johnny Earl. Earl enters this Championship contest averaging 25.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg, and 2.9 rpg. Behind Earl is his brother Michael Earl, who is averaging 17.7 ppg, and 8.7 rpg through 3 games. André Lyons is the teams 3rd leading scorer with an average of 13.4 ppg and 9.4 rpg. Justin R. has made a significant impact with is return to the team, he is averaging 11.3 ppg, 9.0 rpg, and 2.5 apg.

Keys to the Game: 

Both teams benches are good but not exceptional. All of this means one thing.These teams will go as far as their leading scorers can take them.

Have Johnny Earl and ONLY Johnny Earl beat you. He’s an amazing player but probably not amazing enough to win a game by himself.

To win, Washed Up has to get more from teammates other than the Earls, Lyons and Justin.

The Dynasty need to control the pace of the game and make the game very fast paced.

Prediction:

This will be a very close game, with both teams having their own advantages. (Washed Up’s size and shooting, and The Dynasty’s excellent guard play and freakish athleticism). Washed Up is the favorite entering this game and after beating down the reigning champs Morningwood in the Semi-Finals, I have Washed Up coming away with the Division 1 Championship.

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

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Championship Game Preview| Division 3

 

#1 UKnow V2 vs. #3 Young Money

After 9 weeks of play a NEW champion will be crowned in Division 3. The reigning champs were dethroned in the Semi-Finals by the #3 seed Young Money. UKnow V2’s road to the finals has been fairly easy, after a 6-1 regular season (only loss to Young Money in Week 5, 62-50), UKnow took on the Justice League in the Semi-Finals and came away with a 50-47 overtime victory.  As matchups go, this Finals match-up is unexpected but very interesting.

SEASON RECORDS

UKnow V2: 6-1 (No. 1 seed)
Young Money: 5-2 (No. 3 seed)

SEASON SERIES

Young Money defeated UKnow V2 in their much-anticipated Week 5 match-up. (62-50)

OFFENSE/DEFENSE RANKING

UKnow V2: Offense 63.6 ppg; Defense 52.1 ppg
Young Money: Offense 60.5 ppg ; Defense 52.5 ppg

THREE KEY UKNOW V2 Players:

• Anthony Cockrell.  He is efficient and completely unguardable (for Division 3 standards) His numbers are significantly lower than they’ve been in previous seasons, however don’t let the number fool you Cockrell is a 25+ ppg scorer.  Whatever he does, expect a monster game from him. Like everyone else, Young Money will have no good defensive answer for him.

• Albert Suitley. Suitley has been the teams source of “quick offense” in the previous weeks, after leading the team in scoring with 18 points in their semi final win over the Justice League, look for Suitley to come out firing on all cylinders.

• Brandon Kinard. Kinard is the teams defensive anchor. He is agile and as skillful as they come on the defensive end. He has the major task of containing one of the 3 Young Money big men (Ford, Kevorkian, and Aziz) in the post. Kinard shouldn’t have a problem doing so, but the question is will he be fatigued after his Division 2 game?

THREE KEY YOUNG MONEY Players:

• Robel Kevorkian. Young Money’s evolution through the season into a championship contender, parallels Kevorkian’s evolution. Kevorkian was a member of UKnow V2 when the season started but left the team after Week 3 to join Young Money, citing “Playing time became an issue with a growing roster”. Kevorkian has since played his best basketball, averaging 20.6 ppg and 10.1 rpg the past 6 games. Kevorkian is Young Money’s offensive catalyst.

• Zeke “Nico” Benedetti: Benedetti played inconsistent during the regular season, however he has come alive in these playoffs, averaging 11.5 ppg through the teams two games. Benedetti must have a stellar game in order for Young Money to come close to contending.

• Abdul Aziz. He brings a real toughness and energy to Young Money. He is the teams big man patrolling the paint and sending shots back. Aziz should exploit his match-up seeing as he will be the biggest player on the court.

OUTLOOK:

This is going to be one entertaining championship game. These teams are here because they were the teams executing at the end of games. Both sides proved to have “championship pedigree”, with both teams defeating the reigning champs Pantera Legends.

One key so far is that both teams haven’t played fantastic defense, they’ve been just pretty average through the regular season and playoffs. UKnow V2  has won games with their offense and most recently their “defense”. Young Money’s offense, has been impressive these past few games, their perimeter defense has been nonexistent however, this team can defend the post, but their defensive woes lie on their guards who have given up 78 points to their opponents guards in the first two rounds (Jimmy G [23], Jose Vasquez [15] / Richard Hak [24], Francis Vu [14]).

The Numbers: 

UKnow will be led into this game by  Anthony Cockrell who averaged 13.4 ppg and 3.8 rpg in the regular season. behind Cockrell is Albert Suitley who has quickly become a prominent scorer in the division, Suitley is averaging 12.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, and 1.6 rpg. Suitley’s downfall has been his inconsistent play. Dominique Beebe is the teams third leading scorer with 10.5 ppg. Beebe has slowly but surely recovered from his nagging injury and had a very decent game in the semi-finals while playing the Justice League. Like Suitley, Beebe has had some inconsistent play, most notably his shooting. Intuition tells me both players will be primed and ready for this game.

The Young Money camp will be led into this game by Robel Kevorkian, who is averaging 20.6 ppg and 10.1 rpg entering this game. Kevorkian’s running mate will be Aaron Ford who is averaging 12.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg, and 1.3 rpg. Ford and Kevorkian hold it down for the team in the backcourt while Zeke Benedetti enters the game averaging 11.5 ppg. Benedetti is a very skilled offensive player who has played conservative all season long.

X-Factor:

 UKNOW V2

• The teams X-Factor has been and will be the play of Brandon Kinard, Kinard is the teams voice and defensive anchor, Kinard enters the game averaging 9.3 ppg and 6.5 rpg. Numbers however do not show his importance to the team.

• The return of Desean Collins to the teams line up may be a bit noteworthy, Collins is averaging 9.8 ppg through 4 games but seems to be in a shooting slump. Collins has worked on getting out the slump, because his shooting is his greatest asset.

YOUNG MONEY

• Mark Garcia is the teams spark off the bench. Garcia can get hot and quick. In the post season Garcia averaged 7.3 ppg and 2.3 rpg. In the teams semi final game with the Pantera Legends, Garcia finished with 18 points and 4 boards, shooting 7/7 from the field and 3/3 from 3 point range.

• The teams second X-Factor will be the point guard play of Jason Trinh, Trinh is the teams play maker, he facilitates the offense, if he has an off game his team may suffer.

Keys to the Game: 

This will be a different kind of test because Young Money loves to pack it in the paint or use the fastbreak to score easy baskets. Either  UKnow V2’s defense or Young Moneys offense has to give way, and that will be key.

UKnow needs to exploit the point guard play of Jason Trinh whose primary source of offense is driving to the basket and using his patented “crab-dribble”. Eliminate his driving lanes and force Trinh to shoot jumpshots, his weakness. His passes are like those of Rajon Rondo’s so is his jump shot. They also need to hit the offensive and defensive glass hard, to get the  win. Rebounding will be another key.

The key to beating the Young Money is to turn them into jump shooters and not let them get easy baskets in transition and at the line.

Prediction:

If Cockrell, Beebe and Suitley have a great game shooting the 3 ball, then I have to go with UKnow V2.

Since my guess is they won’t, Young Money will be walking away with their first championship.

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

Nates Notes| Season 6 | Second Round Preview| Division 2

#1 Quiksilver vs. #8 The Revenge

The Division 2 quarterfinal/semifinal rounds will get underway when #1 Quiksilver and the #8 seed The Revenge take the court in their 2pm match-up this Sunday.

Brandon Kinard leads his Quiksilver team into this quarterfinal match-up. Kinard finished the regular season as the teams leading scorer averaging 15.1 ppg, 4.0 rpg, and 2.9 apg.  Kinard is the teams defensive guru and will be a nuisance to the oppositions perimeter players. The man in the middle Harry Yoo has fallen off quite a bit after such a hot start to the season. Yoo enters the post season as the teams second leading scorer averaging  14.7 ppg, 9.0 rpg, and 1.5 apg. The duo of Kinard and Yoo has proven to be very productive, the duo helped the team finish with a 6-1 record, and clinch the #1 overall seed throughout the playoffs. Justin Virgil is the teams third offensive option behind Kinard and Yoo, Virgil will enter the game averaging 10.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg, and 2.2 apg. These will be the key players The Revenge will need to contain if they want any shot at winning this game.

The #8 seed The Revenge is flowing with confidence, they are coming off a 38-36 preliminary round victory over the Han$um Goonz. Armondo is the teams leading scorer and their primary option for scoring. Armondo entered the post season averaging 12.0 ppg, and 4.0 rpg. He came up huge in the teams victory over the Han$um Goonz, finishing with a team high 18 points and 18 rebounds, a massive double double. Behind Armondo it’s a toss-up of who the teams second leading scorer would be. On paper its Derrick Okoth who entered the post season averaging 10.0 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.4 apg. Okoth was semi non-existent in the teams last victory finishing with 7 points and 4 rebounds. Hassan Ahmed is the teams third leading scorer entering the game, Ahmed averaged 8.2 ppg, and 3.5 rpg during the regular season but has been absent from the teams last two games.

Prediction:

• Quiksilver comes away with an easy win. Quiksilver’s offensive game is just difficult to contain, the team averages 66.0 ppg, while The Revenge averages 50.3 ppg. Simply put, the team with more points at the end of 40 mins. wins the game, and all signs point at Quiksilver being the team that will have more points.

#4 Secret Agents vs. #5 California Raisins

The #4 vs. #5 match-up is most intriguing in my eyes. The Secret Agents enter the game knowing the one player on the opposition they must stop to come away with an easy win.

Simply put Dominic Cortes is the California Raisins “bread and butter”, without him they are average-good, with him they have the potential to be great. Cortes led the team in scoring in their seven regular season games with 27.7 ppg, 7.0 rpg, and 2.0 apg. Cortes had a huge game in the preliminary round, finishing with 29 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Behind Cortes is Korey Davis, Davis enters the game with balanced numbers, he is averaging 11.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.2 apg. Kevin Chow is the teams third offensive option behind Cortes and Davis, Chow enters the game averaging 7.6 ppg, and 4.6 rpg. Chow had a mediocre game in the preliminary round finishing with 2 points and 8 rebounds. The teams X-Factor is Kwasi Mensah, Mensah is too talented to have only averaged 6.3 ppg, and 7.5 rpg. in the regular season. Mensah came up huge in the preliminary round finishing with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. If Mensah can drop 15+ every game that would provide a huge help to Cortes and Davis.

The favorites entering this game will be the Secret Agents. This team is just dripping with confidence after knocking off the defending champs Wonton Soup in there final regular season game. Terrail Thomas leads the Agents into this match-up averaging 17.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 1.6 apg, and 1.7 spg.  Behind Thomas is Teron Mack, Mack is averaging 13.2 ppg, and 3.2 rpg, and has played his best basketball lately. Darryiall Morris (10.3 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 1.7 apg) and Lonnie Bradshaw (11.1 ppg and 5.4 rpg) round out the “players to watch” for the Secret Agents.

Prediction:

• The Secret Agents will come away with the victory, they are too stacked at every position. They however lack significant bench play, so fatigue may be an issue, however if they can slow the game down they will be fine. Their guards are simply stronger and quicker than those of the Raisins so expect a lot of pressing.

#2 Double Dribble vs. #10 X-Men

The X-Men’s luck will finally run out when they take on the veteran filled #2 seed Double-Dribble.

Darren Smith will lead the #10 seeded X-Men into this playoff bout, Smith entered the post season averaging  25.0 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 1.5 apg, Smith was huge in the teams 2 preliminary round victories in the playoffs opening week. He finished the first game with 37 points and 7 rebounds and in the second game he finished with 20 points and 6 rebounds.  Deante Smith is second in command on the X-Men, he entered the post season averaging 13.0 ppg and 6.7 rpg, Like his brother Smith had a great opening round. He finished with 20 points and 7 rebounds in the teams opening game and in the second game, Smith led the team with 22 points and 3 rebounds. The youngest of the Smith trio,  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. He enters this game after a 5 point, 10 rebounds, and a 10 point, 8 rebounds game. The Smith trio are the sole reason behind the recent success of the X-Men.

Double Dribble will be led into this match-up by, reigning Division MVP Diahnte Pickett who enters the playoffs averaging 18.6 ppg and 2.9 rpg. Derrick Pickett is the teams second leading scorer, Derrick enters this game averaging 15.0 ppg, and 9.3 rpg. André Lockett is the teams third leading scorer, Lockett enters the game averaging 14.3 ppg and shooting a staggering 53% from downtown for the season. Giovanni Valentine is the teams 4th offensive option, Valentine enters this playoff game averaging 10.3 ppg, and 3.3 rpg.

Prediction:

• Double Dribble should come away with the win, they are a veteran team hungry to get to the top after many seasons of falling short. The X-Men’s run should be done after this game, but expect the game to be close in the first half with the Smith Trio doing all they can to make the game competitive.

#3 Wonton Soup vs. #14 Happy Hour

Wonton Soup begins their road to a 4th consecutive championship when they take on #14 Happy Hour. Happy Hour entered the playoffs with a 1-6 record but pulled off two wins over two higher ranked teams in the preliminary rounds to get to this point.

Happy Hour is led into this playoff match-up by Reuben Medina 18.5 ppg , 4.7 rpg, Medina had a huge opening round game, he finished with 20 points and 7 rebounds, in the second game Medina did not have a huge offensive output but his 14 points and 4 rebounds was icing on the cake for his team in their blowout win. James Reyes entered the playoffs as the teams second leading scorer. Reyes averaged 12.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg in the regular season, Reyes however did not make an immediate impact in the opening round games finishing with 11 points combined in 2 games.  The bright spot for this team has been their 3 point shooting. If they can manage to go 15/25 from 3 point range they may actually have a shot at winning this game.

Wonton Soup is led into this game by Aaron Sanchez, Sanchez is averaging 18.1 ppg and 12.4 rpg. Behind Sanchez is Jamaal Logan who is the teams third scoring option, Logan is averaging 11.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg. Jaime Villalobos is the teams third leading scorer behind Logan and Sanchez, Villalobos enters the game averaging 11.0 ppg, and 5.3 rpg.

Prediction: 

• Wonton Soup should have an easy game, Happy Hour just lacks the size to keep up with the defending champs, HOWEVER if Happy Hour shoots the 3 ball the same way they did when they played UKnow the game could swing in a totally different direction.

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