SB Nation User Blog: ben.renz

27 Questions For Coleman Collins

ben.renz — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 06:41:57 -0000

You know Coleman Collins. He's the Mad Ants' 6-9 power forward from Virgina Tech. He's averaging 11 PPG and 6 boards a game (mostly) off the bench this season for the Ants. Last summer he spent some time with the Phoenix Suns. And yes, I know what you're thinking. The above picture makes him look like a frog. But I promise, he doesn't always look like a frog. Coleman was kind enough to answer 27 awesome questions about life, basketball, and pizza, and I must say this: Man has some taste. Check it after the jump!"

Even though it's generally considered poor etiquette to speak ill of the departed, I am the best dunker on the Mad Ants, and was always, even when those two guys (Eric Smith and Shawn Hawkins) were here on the team. Ask anyone." - Coleman Collins

1. Were there any David Bailey height jokes? Any favorites? (Bailey was with the Mad Ants earlier this season, before being traded back to Sioux Falls for Carl Elliott)

Nobody really has any jokes for DB because he's always already running his mouth.

2. What was the album that got the most spins on your iPod last year? Right now?

Last year was Lupe Fiasco's The Cool

This year is Wale's 100 Miles and Running (great pick by Coleman, you can grab this mixtape for free right here) or Vampire Weekend - selftitled

3. How do you feel about the nickname CC? (I’m sure you’ve heard this before)

I don't really do nicknames. I've never had a nickname that stuck. I just go by my government name.

4. What Office character can you most identify yourself with?\

I would be Jim. I enjoy making fun of other people without them knowing.

5. Any good Shaq stories?

None that I can share.

6. Is it just me or does Chris Bosh actually look like a Raptor? (as in: Chris Bosh looks like a velociraptor – the dinosaur)

I can see the resemblance.

7. I’ve read a few articles comparing you to Mikki Moore, another guy who spent time playing in Fort Wayne. Thoughts on that comparison?

I don't mind being compared to anybody with Mikki Moore's money. He's made a solid career for himself, something anybody could be proud of.

8. Everybody likes pizza. Create your ideal pizza. (I’m looking specific here. No slacking, Coleman. What place has your favorite crust. Favorite sauce. Favorite toppings. Pizza is a BIG DEAL)

I don't typically have favorites. I like pretty much everything at different times. Pizza would have a combination of one of the following toppings. Chicken, Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach, extra cheese. Combination would depend on my mood.

9. Describe Dewitt Scott in three words.

Focused. Perceptive. Shooter.

10. How shiny, on a scale of 1-10 (10 being very very shiny) is Brian Morrison’s head, really?

11. Who’s the one player, non-Mad Ant, you think deserves an NBA call-up the most and why?

James White. He's got league experience and he's been dominant all year. (Got it!)

12. Is Walker Russell the best PG in the D-League?

Obviously. He's averaging a double-double from the 1 spot and leading the league in assists on a team that isn't a particularly high-scoring one.

13. Best Christmas gift?

No response to this question for Coleman. The most obvious answer however is "answering these questions for Ben Renz."

14. Any cool "I dunked on…" stories during your time with the Raptors, Nuggets, or Suns? Any embarrassing "I got dunked ON..." stories?

Hmmm, don't really remember individual dunk-ons. They all run together. I don't really get dunked on very often, unless I happen to be standing under the basket or looking in the wrong direction.

15. Who’s the best dunker on the Mad Ants? From what I've seen during warm ups I'm personally going with Shawn Hawkins; however Eric Smith will always be the greatest Mad Ant dunksmith.

Even though it's generally considered poor etiquette to speak ill of the departed, I am the best dunker on the Mad Ants, and was always, even when those two guys were here on the team. Ask anyone.

16. How was it playing with Alex Acker and Walter Sharpe? (the two were on assignment from the Detroit Pistons for four games back in early January)

It was a little hard as far as team chemistry was concerned, because they were kind of thrown into the mix, but it's always ultimately positive to play with players of that skill level.

17. Favorite place to play on the road in the D-League?

Anywhere with warm weather and a real sit-down restaurant within walking distance of the hotel.

18. Did you ever collect basketball cards? Any favorites you remember? Favorite things about the hobby?

I have an extensive collection of basketball cards at home. Tons and tons of cards from 1992-1998. No favorites, again. Favorite thing is the smell of the cardboard/paper when you open up a new pack. The crinkle of the foil as you rip it open. The search for an All-Star player among legions of Antoine Carr's and Kevin Duckworth's (RIP).

19. What was playing in Germany like? I’ve read lots about players in Russia and Spain, but never Germany. What was your favorite thing culturally over there? How’d you pick up on the language? My girlfriend’s grandpa is from there and he has an incredible accent. Which leads me to another question…Do you agree in the flawless thinking that Penelope Cruz has the greatest accent ever blessed upon a human being?

Germany was great. I spoke the language before I got over there, so it wasn't really a problem.

I prefer Audrey Tatou's accent, but that's really splitting hairs.

20. If you were stranded on a desert island with Harrison Ford, do you think you’d fall in love with him a little, much like Anna Heche does in in 1998 romantic comedy Six Days, Seven Nights? I’m talking platonic here of course.

Never was a Harrison Ford fan. Don't really get the point of him. (Obviously someone hasn't seen Raiders of the Lost Ark).

21. Favorite place to go in Fort Wayne? If you can’t think of one, I can totally see why. Not a bad place to live, but there’s really nothing that sticks out.

I go to Henry's downtown a couple times a week. Club Soda occasionally, but the people at Henry's basically know me by name.

22. What candy bar describes your game the best?

Twix. Recall their slogan after I score.

23. Is Lebron staying in Cleveland in 2010 or heading to New York?

No idea. (Where's the creativity here? I would have liked to hear "Lebron to the Mad Ants in 2010" or "Lebron to the Pacers." Something.)

24. Thoughts on mustard?

Wonderful in moderation.

25. How much better do you play in the Memorial Coliseum every night knowing that Master P played in the very same building?

It's a constant source of pride.

26. Thoughts on the upcoming ten game road trip?

This was really bad. Not on the court, but off. I will never go to either of the Dakotas again for any reason as long as I live. Unless it's completely unavoidable, which would be unfortunate.

27. What’s your biggest motivator on the court?

The fact that there's a recession and that at any moment I could be out there on the job market.

I'd like to thank Coleman for taking the time to answer these questions. Great guy, great player and I wish him the best in the future.

In the League: March 5, 2009

ben.renz — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 06:21:54 -0000

Colorado 113, Austin 106 - This was a goody. Two of the top teams in the league grinding it out and it didn't disappoint, but in the end Colorado managed to capitalize off the 22 Toros turnovers (that has a nice ring to it). I'm giving one Dominique Coleman my NOD OF THE NIGHT. Coleman had 17 points (7 for 10 shooting), 7 boards, 10 dimes, 2 steals, and just one turnover in 36 minutes. I've been really impressed with this guy lately. He's becoming the go-to guy for the 14ers and there aren't many leaders more able in this league. Josh Davis had a usual impressive game with 29 minutes and 7 rebounds and Trey Gilder came off the bench for the 14ers to add 10 boards and 2 blocks (his 3 for 11 shooting isn't quite as positive, however). The Toros did put up a fight though. Marcus Williams was just as brilliant as ever with 31 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 blocks (tell me why this guy is still in the D-League). Despite his 7 turnovers (funny), Ezra Williams looked good with 23 and 11 boards and Carldell "Squeaky" Johnson had a solid night with 19 points, 6 dimes and 4 nice robberies. I'd love to see more matchups like this one. Both teams came to play, but Austin could have easily won this one if they had just toned down the turnovers.
Anaheim 112, Fort Wayne 107 - Fort Wayne continues their losing ways, and to a team they have the talent to beat no less (the "Flight"-less Arsenal). The Ants shot a paltry 42% and were outrebounded 57-35 along with not being able to capitalize on the 17 Anaheim TO's. Cedric Bozeman had a near trip-dub with 22 points, 16 boards and 8 assists. Kedrick Brown was close as well with 25 points, 9 rebounds and 6 dimes. The Arsenal's Marcus Campbell also had 20 and 9 boards in the win. Chris Hunter had a decent game for the Ants, with 32 points (14 from FT, perfect from the line - nice to see from the big guy) but Bozeman bossed him around on the glass and he only picked up half of what Bozey pulled down. Carl Elliott was a mess. This kid's in a slump and it's a damn shame. It took Elliott 7 shots to get 2 points and this performance didn't get coach Jaren Jackson to pull him out and stick in seldom used guard Jarred Axon. Jackson needs to shake up this rotation (I think he's been shaking it up plenty already! No one seems to even have an idea of how many minutes they'll get each night... Interesting coaching strategy from JJ -- Scott). Walker Russell was his normal self with 18 points and 8 assists, but it wasn't enough, and the Ants lost yet another one to a mediocre team.

In the League: March 4, 2009

ben.renz — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:44:11 -0000

Los Angeles 123, Fort Wayne 116 - If Fort Wayne wants to get out of the bottom of the barrel, losing to teams with a worse record isn't a good start. Granted though, the D-Fenders are the best awful team in the D-League. Joe Crawford is a star and Dwayne Mitchell had a monster game last night with 27 points and 9 rebounds. Brandon Heath is continuing his tear with 25 of his own and 9 dimes to boot. Fort Wayne lost this one by allowing LA to net 43 in the 2nd quarter alone. The lack of Coleman Collins sure didn't help the Ants, and Chris Hunter being held to 21 minutes is a shame. Walker Russell continues impressing however, with 24 points, 14 assists and 7 boards. LA shot 59% in the win and I've come to like this team, and come to dislike the Ants more.
Iowa 100, Sioux Falls 95 - Here we had my game of the night, and I was actually right in guessing the outcome! So I celebrated this morning with some fruit snacks. JamesOn Curry got 26 minutes off the bench in his first game back with the Energy, and boy oh boy was he a non-factor. 8 points, 3 fouls, 2 steals. JamesOff. Courtney Sims sent a message with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks. Cheikh Samb to the Knicks? No fellas. Courtney Sims is the better big man. Othyus Jeffers was a beast with 28 points and the little guy grabbed 12 boards while he was at it. Sioux Falls' Kasib Powell had 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 dimes in the loss and Chris Ellis pulled down 10 boards, but shot an unfortunate 2 for 9 from the field. The Skyforce played good team ball in this one, but were outscored by 10 in the 3rd and never really recovered.
Rio Grande Valley 133, Albuquerque 119 - The Vipes never trailed in this one and Kurt Looby is getting my NOD OF THE NIGHT with his 11 points, 17 rebounds 5 blocks. Loob's got talent. I've been impressed with his play for a long time. Great game from him. Trent Strickland also had a brilliant game for Rio with 27 and 9 boards to add. The Thunderbirds' just couldn't execute in this one despite Keith McLeod's 34 points, but Mark Walters did have a solid individual game with 15 points, 10 boards and 6 robberies. Too bad it wasn't enough. Albuquerque drops a winnable one to the underachieving Vipers. I feel like this has happened before...

In the League: March 3, 2009

ben.renz — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 03:41:31 -0000

Colorado 124, Dakota 112 - Well it looks like I was wrong on this one. The Wizards are slipping. They've lost 3 straight and have won only 4 of their last 10. And I look at their roster and I just don't understand it. The Wizards magically turned the ball over 26 times in this one. Maurice Baker ended with more turnovers (6) than field goals (5). Even Blake Ahearn had 5 of his own. However Blake was a saving grace as usual with 22 points and 6 dimes. Rod Benson and Richard Hendrix had their usual awesome games in tow. Rod with 12 and 12 and Richard Hendrix with 21 and 11 (again, Golden State has the most flawed decision making skills in basketball - and this is coming from a league that includes a team that agreed to trade Kwame Brown for Pau Gasol). Dakota was without Hamed Haddadi and Renaldo Major and it showed as the Wiz didn't have the heart for this one. Colorado snapped their two game skid and looked as great as ever. Dominique Coleman is getting my NOD OF THE NIGHT with a near triple double of 24 points, 9 boards, 8 dimes, and 3 steals for good measure. Coleman's been putting up nice numbers this season. Hint hint. Newcomer John Lucas led all scorers with 29 and had 3 robberies in the win and Josh Davis and Billy Thomas both picked up 19 points a piece and succeeded in having the most boring names on the court. Nice win for the 14ers. HEY COLORADIANS (that can't be right), GO SEE THE 14ERS PLAY. You people have it so good.

Lots of movement yesterday. Iowa has JamesOn Curry back ON their squad. Hopefully you remember JamesOn. He was a beast for the Energy last season, a 20 point scorer. His name is great to make jokes with. And he urinates in public. We do a lot of talking about names here at RU. It's kind of sad really. Probably because we have bland names. Austin has DerMarr Johnson back as well. Yes, DerMarr was a bust. A number 6 pick that didn't pan out for the Hawks. But he has many other good qualities. For one, he's the godbrother of Michael Beasley. He also took Marcus Williams' spot on the Spurs last season (TRAVESTY). And he's a bad driver. Just awful. The worst. And for some reason the Bighorns traded Antonio Meeking to the Thunderbirds for David Noel. Whom Reno decided they did not want. Sounds fair to me.

Tonight we've got 3 games, and I'm liking the Iowa-Sioux Falls matchup. My pick is Iowa, and it's very likely I'll be wrong again.

In the League: March 2, 2009

ben.renz — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:14:46 -0000

So last night we had three tight games in the D-League, all worth watching. Patrick Ewing Jr. got my Nod of the Night with his 19 points, 14 boards, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in Reno's win over the Defenders last night in a game that saw 16 lead changes. Patrick's been looking great lately, and he's putting up numbers like this nightly OFF THE BENCH. He may not be his daddy, but we love him the way he is.

Albuquerque 99, Bakersfield 94 - Bakersfield lost this one with their 20 turnovers. It took Derrick Byars 21 shots to get his 20 points and his 5 turnovers contributed (just in the wrong sort of way). Justin Reed had a good game for the Jam though with 16 points 10 boards. Jasper Johnson was the real story for the night however. The kid's been putting up great numbers this season and his 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 steals last night continued that beautiful trend. Keep an eye on Jasper [to go overseas, as his body just isn't suited for the NBA -- Scott]. David Noel played all but 30 seconds for the Birds and put up 21 points, 16 boards, and dished 5 dimes. Wonderful. Nice win for Albuquerque. Bakersfield is slipping ladies and gents.
Fort Wayne 119, Rio Grande Valley 114 - In this one we saw nearly half the Viper team receive techs, and each team managed to turn the ball over 19 times a piece. But the Ants home fans sure got a show, as the team shot 60% from the field even though the Vipers outrebounded the angrier than usual Ants 47-31. It doesn't help, however, when over half (24) of a teams total rebounds are offensive. Walker Russell looked great last night with 26 points (7 for 10 shooting), 11 assists, and 4 robberies. He needs to watch those 5 TO's however. Chris Hunter looked as good as ever with 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 swats. Rio Grande had their bright spots however. Trent Strickland put in 31 and 9 (28 in the first half) and Jawad Williams had 22 and 7 (and 2 blocks to go along with it). Let's just keep down the turnovers fellas.
Reno 125, LA 115 - So yes, Ewing won this one for Reno. Reno's Russell Robinson showed just what he can do last night. He's averaging 10.5 points on the season, and put up 25 last night. I'm betting he has a smile on his face today. Though it wasn't all smiles for Reno. They had to stop Joe Crawford and they did what they could, Crawford still erupting for 32 points and teammate Brandon Heath adding 26. In the end, LA was outrebounded 50 to 34 and that just doesn't do the trick

The Bighorns also re-acquired Garry-Hill Thomas, who played for Utah last season. Thomas had 4 points and 4 boards in 25 minutes last night (was he selling popcorn or playing basketball in these 25 minutes?). In other news, Austin's Marcus Williams is our NBADL Player of the Week as he's been a big part of their 4 game win streak. Congrats to Marcus.

Tonight's only game is Colorado going up against Dakota. This should be an easy win for the Wizards. And let's all take a moment to pray for Rod Benson and his quest to find a Boom Tho girl.

Where Are We Living Now?

ben.renz — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:51:26 -0000

via www.famouschicken.com

Well hey hey D-League fans! It was a fun, fun All-Star weekend that saw Daequan Cook taking home the NBA 3-Point Shootout title (former D-Leaguer!), Dwight Howard stealing Keith Clark's side of the board dunk, Will Conroy winning one of the most boring events in the history of the game, Blake Ahearn and Courtney Sims ever-so deservingly taking home co-MVP honors at the All-Star game (the NBA copied us again and chose two MVPs as well), and James White proving that he would easily win the NBA Dunk contest as well. Needless to say, it was a good one.

But all that fun is over. And the rest of the season will be absolutely zero fun here on out. The Erie Bayhawks have won five straight and I doubt they plan on breaking that streak any time soon so the rest of the league better be looking out for that. Austin and Colorado are on top of the League, both with their pretty 19-8 records leaving the rest of the fellas in the Southwest Division without a prayer. And let's not forget that Idaho has lost four straight. Ah, I bet they're missing Coby Karl about now (hell, I'm missing Coby Karl right now). Courtney Sims is back in Phoenix. No surprise here, but we'll see what happens to Iowa as their lineup starting the season looks much different than the lineup they're using now. Me? I'm betting they'll be just fine.

As for Iowa, we'll get a look at them in just a couple of hours, as they have a terribly timed game today agains the Mad Ants at 1 PM. I want to say the Ants can pull off a win here, but let's be honest for a sec; they probably won't. Did I mention they cut Shawn Hawkins? Who I, a few weeks ago, claimed to be the most talented all-around player on that team? Either I don't know basketball (which is definitely possible) or Shawn was a grumpy gus. I bet Hawkins' is a pleasant guy though. So I must not know this game. If you're still reading this, you can stop now. I know very little about this game.

Next up we have Austin taking on Anaheim, and any baby enjoying Skittles could tell you the winner of this one. The game time was moved up to 3 PM because of President's Day. I don't understand this move, thus making it the second, and final game of the day that I do not get to watch because of the ridiculous (the bad way) time. Also, the Famous Chicken may or may not be there. Also, James White should try to do a free-throw line dunk during game action. Over Pops Menshah-Bonsu. How impressed would we all be then?

Life Lessons

ben.renz — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:59:37 -0000

Erie Bayhawks 125, Iowa Energy 115

So here's a shocker. The Energy were within 2 points with 35 seconds left in the game, but couldn't stop the Erie run that soon followed. So essentially, the Energy pulled what I like to call "a Mad Ant." So Erie is back at .500 (16-16). Most people say certain teams are better than their record. I see Erie as worse than their record. Which sounds mean, of course, but every time I see them play I'm usually unimpressed. But no foul, as they manage to win games and a decent amount of them. They shot 57% tonight and Maureece Rice was a big part of that, going 11 for 17 on his way to 28 points. Erik Daniels had a solid game, especially when you factor in Courtney Sims as his opposition. 24 points, 9 boards, and 7 dimes for Daniels (congrats to him for the All-Star nod!). Oliver Lafayette played just 7 minutes (couldn't tell you why, I'm so informative, right?) but managed 5 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 dimes. Nice.

Speaking of Sims (I mentioned him up there, you can even go back and check if you want - power of the internet!), he was nothing less than spectacular again, but who wouldn't expect him to be? Court had 30 points (13 for 17), 14 boards, and 3 blocks. He knows this game so well. Curtis Stinson had a solid game outside of his 4 TOs (15 points, 14 dimes) and Demetris Nichols did his damage with 23 points, however the Iowa dropped what should have been an easy win for them. But this happens.

Sioux Falls Skyforce 103, Bakersfield Jam 96

And continuing the trend, here's another upset from last night. There were 33 turnovers in this one, 5 of these from the Skyforce's Frank Williams, who also managed to shoot 4 for 14 (1 for 7 from trey) on the night. Thumbs up Frank. Luckily Chris Ellis was so wonderful off the bench with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 blocks. David Bailey did some things I only dreamt he could do in Fort Wayne, putting up 26 points and dishing 6 dimes (also, ten free throws - this guy gets to the line with the best of them).

The Jam shot 43% on the night and that's really what sunk 'em. Justin Reed was a bright spot for Bakersfield with 24 points, 5 rebounds, and status as the sole Jammer with ONLY ONE TURNOVER. Terrance Thomas had 18 boards (I love this kid - that's why they call him the Glass Man) and Derrick Byars was so bad it almost made me throw up the entire bag of Goldfish Crackers I ate last night (they tasted like pizza! Just as advertised!)! Byars shot 3 for 14. Let's hope they don't come up. So Bakersfield drop one they should have won. A trend that will end here; at least for today.

Colorado 14ers 138, Tulsa 66ers 128

Yes, here it was ladies and gentlemen. The battle of the silly numbered teams. You missed it again this year. But that's okay, I've got you covered. OFFENSE OFFENSE OFFENSE. That's all you need to know. Tulsa lost this one on the glass as the 14ers out-boarded them 50 to 34 (scary face!). 43 turnovers total in this one. This was a fun one to watch, but afterwards you felt like you feel after you eat 100 Triple Pepporoni Pizza Rolls. So much fun at the time, but a very bad decision in retrospect. Colorado played nice ball however, with Vernon Hamilton starting (it's nice to see Vern back; he's a very solid baller) and dishing in his own 10 of 38 assists (on 52 field goals). Josh Davis had 38 points and 9 rebounds in just 28 minutes. Yeah. No typo there. But the true star of the night was Dominique Coleman and the Tale of the Trip-Dub. Coleman had 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 13 dimes. Ridiculous. AND if he had just 4 more turnovers it would have been a Quad-Dub! Maybe next time! However, I was always far more impressed with the Double-Triple. Think about it. Now THAT'S impressive.

Tulsa had no Chris Richard and as he's the team's only talent, that's gonna hurt. Jeremy Kelly had 23 points, 5 assists, and 4 turnovers in the loss to go along with center Keith Clark's 14 points and 8 boards. A rare bright spot for Tulsa last night was Gary Ervin, netting 10 points and dishing 6 assists in his 14 minutes off the bench. I can blame this one on Paul Woolpert. Play Gary Ervin. You might win some games and not be sitting nasty at 7-22. No cute sports star is gonna ask you to dance with that record. Push up your glasses. Sit up straight. Go get some punch. Relax. Dances are supposed to be fun.

I Missed You Guys....

ben.renz — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:58:59 -0000

113 Utah Flash, 100 Fort Wayne Mad Ants

It's hard to be mad. Yes, I'm an Ants fan. Why wouldn't I be? I live in Fort Wayne. And yes, the Ants ended up disappointing (once again) and leaving their Tuesday night crowd with a loss. But it was nice to be watching some D-League basketball that wasn't on FutureCast. I love FutureCast, but I can only stand watching basketball on a small square so much. It's good to see the Ants back home.

There's really a lot to say about this game. Carl Elliott looks a lot like Baron Davis (and the headband was icing on the cake). The Mad Ants announcer stopped yelling "MAD ANT BASKETBALL" after every single Flash turnover (I always wish he would stop doing this, and it seems he has for now). I finally opened my ears to what the Bailey Bunch are saying, and I was amused to no end. I can pretty much guarantee that some old guy is going to give me free tickets to every Ants' home game (this is why I don't buy season tickets - that and I'm a poor college boy). The Pistons' half-time trampoline dunk team consists of a lot of very young white kids and a middle-aged black man (it was Pistons' affiliate night, and I was hoping for the Ants to don some Pistons jerseys, but it wasn't meant to be). Chris Brown is a sleazebag. I had some really good pizza prior to the game. Dontell Jefferson had me in awe. And as for Steve Newman? But a simple postal worker...

The Bailey Bunch loved to pick on Newman. As well as J.R. Giddens. I can't remember too much of what was said but I did notice a J.R. baseline dunk, afterwards he ran down court and looked over at the hecklers, however I was on the other side of the court...and saw no mouth moving. Awesome information, right? Anyways, the Bailey Bunch are a clever group. I laughed on a few occasions. And I don't laugh. Just ask my parents.

But back to Mr. Newman. He had a really crazy nice jump shot for a big white guy. Gavin Grant put a few really nice looks and Ryan Diggs has a motor implanted in him somewhere. Wowza, that kid is fast. Giddens was very solid. Off the bench to shoot 9 for 13? Beautiful. Countless dunks by the rook, and you knew when his shot went up that it was gonna fall. I've always been iffy on Giddens, but he sold me last night. He seemed pretty happy to be back with the Flash and I like seeing that. Carlos Wheeler impressed me too. Lots of atheliticism for the 30 year old forward.

The box score claims Andre Ingram was on the court for 27 minutes. I'm not believing it. He did so much nothing out there, though it's hard to fault him as Utah escaped with the win. Not to mention the team shot 60% from the field. But you can chalk that up more to Giddens and the three other starters that aren't Bennet Davis.

Dontell Jefferson. Oh wow. This guy easily has the prettiest shot I have ever seen in my life. He put up just 8 during the game but I gasped every single time. Not to mention he's a great floor general who plays really solid defense. He's also long to boot, and with just one simple step he can get in front of his man. Yes, I love Walker Russell, but Jefferson is a beastly NBA ready point guard, moreso than anyone else in the league. So quick and with a great jumper, he can also pilfer like Carl Weathers in church (this joke will probably go over your heads as it's really stupid, but the video concerns "change" - which people often donate to churches during the collection portion of the mass, and Carl Weathers plays a very cheap version of himself in my favorite TV show, Arrested Development- very funny stuff here at Ridiculous Upside).

Despite his 5 turnovers, James Lang was a force. He put up 21 points and grabbed 7 boards and seemed to dominate in the paint all night. Ronald Dupree was as good as ever, putting his fair share of 20 points. Utah is a team. They pass well, they execute well, and they can shoot your lights out if you give them too much, and that's exactly what they did last night on the Mad Ants. And they are solid at the point and center positions, and that's what wins games.

As for the Ants, they shot 52% - they just didn't want to play defense, I suppose. Coleman Collins was visibly frustrated most of the game, Carl Elliott could never get his shot going, Dewitt Scott pulled a Andre Ingram and managed to blend into the court during his 20 minutes, and Walker Russell's scoring hasn't gotten any more accurate. But on the positive (up)side, Chris Hunter had a great double-double on the night with 23 and 10 and missed only 4 shots. Hunter has progressed so much since the season started. He's much more powerful when he goes up to the basket now. Countless times last night he would explode from down low, plowing through three Flash big men, and going up for a huge slam and getting the crowd off their feet. "Big Game" Hunter had a big game indeed. NBA ready? I'd say so. I'm looking at you, Kevin McHale.

Ron Howard was great offensively on his way to 26 points. This guy cuts to the basket so well. So many textbook lay ups for Mr. Howard. He's a great fundamental basketball player. He is indeed the leader of this team and it's a shame he takes a backseat (middle, his feet on the hump) to Russell and Hunter most of the time. Taj McCullough had a solid game off the bench for 20 points in 30 minutes, but for a PF to not grab a single rebound in that time? Taj loves to score, and I love to see him score, but he needs to develop his game beyond just that one area.

Overall, it's nice to be back in the Memorial Coliseum watching some solid NBADL action. It would have been nice to see the Ants pull out the W, but Utah is simply the better team. Even my girlfriend, who knows nothing about basketball and tunes me off when I go on and on about it, mentioned how well they move the ball. And Dontell Jefferson should be in the NBA. I know here at RU we've been praising this man left and right lately, but for good reason. I saw him in person for the first time tonight and he is indeed the real deal. The Orlando Magic could have used his services as anyone under 6'5" has more upside as a point guard than Tyronn Lue (I also hear from absolutely nobody that Jefferson is a mean chef with a specialty for sauces). Then again, this team also passed up Russell and Will Conroy so when it comes to decision making abilities with Orlando....well, let's just say you shouldn't leave things like that up to "magic."

But I'll stop yelling at NBA teams now. Also, J.R. Giddens' new nickname is "the Mayor." I made it up. And it's very good. But that's all I have today. Have a wonderful day DL fans, and please, eat well.

P.S. How AWESOME would it have been for the Magic to call up Majic Dorsey? Oh man, that would have made my life that much better.

Field Below

ben.renz — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:33:49 -0000

Blake's future's so bright you have to squint when you look at this picture.

108 Bakersfield Jam, 100 Dakota Wizards

The Jam ended up coming out on top in this matchup that easily could have gone either way for two very even teams (though, on paper Dakota should never lose a game). Bakersfield's Derrick Byars led the Jam with 31 points on a 13 for 20 night. I'm sure he'll wake up with a smile this morning along with Terrance Thomas (yay for alliteration!) who pulled down a ridiculous 18 rebounds, however Thomas' shot was off as he went just 3 for 11 from the field. Thanks to solid free-throw shooting all-around, the Jam won this as they were able to go 91% from the charity strike. Your fifth-grade coached harped on and on about it. Free throws win games. Also, Mateen Cleaves managed to sneak back onto the Jam without me even realizing he was back in the League. However, I'm not the most attentive guy either so who knows?

Blake Ahearn is a man and the rest of us are toddler boys who scream too much when we receive Christmas gifts. It's hard for me to understand how just having Ahearn, by himself, on your team doesn't automatically win you games. Who says basketball's a team sport? He shot 15 for 24 (inluding 5 of 9) from deep on his way to 41 points and also grabbed 8 rebounds on the night. Yes, his team still lost by eight, but it'd still be hard to feel bad with those numbers. There was no Renaldo Major in this one for the Wizards, which could definitely explain the Dakota loss as he contributes so much to this team. Richard Hendrix had 17 boards in just 29 minutes (Golden State is a joke of an organization). Too bad basketball is a team sport, right? Ahearn couldn't do it all for the Wizards as the rest of the team really stunk it up for Dakota offensively, and when Will Frisby is turning the ball over at a rate that could threaten the stability of many small countries, you will probably lose the game.

Look for my loooong Flash-Mad Ants recap real soon. I've missed basketball.

Not Without a Fight

ben.renz — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:56:57 -0000

Colorado 121, Austin 119

Ah, this is the type of game that all basketball fans live for. Solid performances from two of the top teams in the league and a "oh- please-three-ball, go-in-so-my-team-can-win-this-game-and-I-can-look-good-to-NBA-franchises-who-are-recently-in-need-of-a-solid-big-man-with-NBA-experience, just-go-in, please, I-never-do-anything-wrong." Both teams kept it pretty even, though 39 turnoevers split evenly between the two? Come on fellas! I can forgive this though. Austin had two great individual performances by Pops Mensah-Bonsu (who missed a trey at the buzzer that would have won it - but this cannot be blamed on him; great game for Pops) and Marcus Williams. Williams had a game on par with Courney Sims' monster season debut. 30 points, 13 boards, 9 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks for good measure. Just missed the trouble-double but the two good blocks are easily worth 7 assists (roughly). Pops put in 31, grabbed 8 rebounds, and swatted three shots. These guys are great. Austin is solid. Gotta have my Pops.

The real story here is Colorado. These guys just flat out brought it tonight. Eddie Gill was my MVP for the team with his 18 points and 12 dimes (I love good passers; they are priceless) but Josh Davis put up a ridiculous performance (in his attempt to silence the naysayers - proving he deserves that All-Star spot) with 23 points, 11 boards, and 3 steals (5 for 7 behind the arc). Joe Dabbert was ejected in the 4th after his second tech, but in his 29 minutes he put in 23 points, 8 rebounds, and robbed it 3 times. Great game between these two powerhouses and you expect to see this matchup in the playoffs.

Erie 111, Idaho 85

Erie's got their swagger back. Idaho...not so much. Their 17 turnovers just added to the gift of letting Erie shoot 56% on the night, just handing Erie their third straight win. Erie's Erik Daniels had a game on par with Williams, putting up his own ALMOST trip-dub with 26 points, 12 rebounds, 9 dimes and 2 steals. I cannot understand why this guy isn't an All-Star (don't I say this too much? Hell, I should be an All-Star - put me in the dunk contest; I'll take everyone out with a solid lay up where I may or may not get one foot off the ground). No Erie player is represented. Daniels puts up numbers like these consistently and is one of the best overall players in the league. Talk about a snub. Also for Erie, Maureece Rice looked great with 22 points and six boards not to mention Ivan Harris' nice 15 points and 9 rebounds. Great overall game by Erie. Put Oliver Lafayette in here and any of these four Erie guys could hold their own against any All-Star this year.

Can't say the same about Idaho (the good game thing - not the All-Star thing; this team has some solid talent as well). No player was in the game for more than 29 minutes and everyone had around 20 minutes of playing time. I don't really understand what Bryan Gates was trying to do here. I can see him wanting to give solid playing time to everybody on the team, but what about winning games? I understand he's been doing things like this all season but when you're down 26 points at the end of 48 you've done something wrong (I'll blame it on only playing Luke Jackson for 26 minutes). Kevin Burleson (who? THIS GUY) came off the bench and looked nice for Idaho however, with 17 points and 5 assists in his own 28 minutes. Dwayne Jones snagged 8 boards in the loss. What an odd way to lose...

Will Conroy and Dontell Jefferson were named co-Players of the Month, and this is one decision I agree with 100%. Both have been great for their respective teams, and Jefferson not being an All-Star (like I said yesterday) is a travesty. Also, little Willie should be getting a call-up pretty soon. I can feel it. What a great scorer. This Thursday night we've got three games, my favorite of which is the Sioux Falls - Dakota matchup. This is a rivalry and always a good one, but I'm gonna go with Dakota on this one. I don't understand how they even lose a single game with that stacked roster. Hope everyone has a Thursday on par with Erik Daniels. I'm sure he's feeling pretty good about himself. Erie fans need to vote more next year. But that goes without saying. Sound off with your favorite All-Star snub this year in the comments!