Bringing the Heat: (The Blue View) Day 20

For the championship. Gatlins vs Mayhem. It all comes down to this, for the Gatlins, its win or you’re done. For team Mayhem there is a 13-game winning streak and supreme confidence. They’ve been a runaway train all season long. A Mayhem victory seems a foregone conclusion; or is it?

Heart-N-Soul’s 17 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists,3 steals and impassioned play steers the ship for the Gatlins; and team Mayhem starts out tight. Then “The Phenom” 38 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 1 block begins to heat up, repeatedly beating the double team seemingly at will. Adeptly feinting and maneuvering like a master of puppets. An extremely gifted athlete; a joy to watch.

“The Phenom” picked up his 3rd foul late in the first half. And aside from “Scoop’s” 9 points (8 in the 1st half), 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks, Mayhem was unbalanced – “The Phenom” and “Scoop” scoring all but one of the team’s 1st half points – and they were clearly out-played by the Gatlins who were buoyed by big time efforts from “Nasty Nas” 7 points, 13 rebounds and “Billy Ho” 20 points (a career playoff high – 13 in the 1st half), 7 rebounds and 1 steal to take a 32-21 lead at the half.

Mayhem begins the 2nd half in a blur going on an 8-0 run. The Gatlins do not look like the same inspired team of the 1st half, but just as it appears Mayhem would take control of the game, “Heart-N-Soul” (Man on Fire) comes up huge to stem the tide. Then “The Phenom” sensing the chip, cuts the lead to (4), as low as its been since early in the 1st half. The Gatlins seemed to be wilting under the Mayhem surge. Then, out of the phone booth steps “Billy Ho” to save the day with a monster trey to push the lead to 49-42. Mayhem responds. “Billy Ho” answers back. “The Phenom” slashes, scores. “Billy Ho” in the corner; nothing but net. Suddenly crunch time is “Billy Ho” time! But, Mayhem makes a frenzied late push. Back to back treys from “Diesel” 7 points (all in the 2nd half), 5 rebounds and “The Phenom.”

Mayhem takes its first lead 58-55. Under 5 minutes to play. It’s a one point lead with under a minute to play. A crucial turnover by Mayhem and uncharacteristic sloppy play down the stretch give the Gatlins life. Under 10 seconds. The Gatlins go to “Bucktown” 10 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals. In the paint – a driving basket… and the foul; pandemonium!! After the made free throw it’s the Gatlins by 2. Seven seconds. “The Phenom” is fouled. The best free throw shooter in the league… misses the front end of a one & one – Gatlins win 60-58! An instant classic!

Coach “Slick Rick” dedicated this win to his superstar guard – first team All-World selection and reigning league M.V.P “Lil’ Magic” who is unable to participate and with whom he has teamed to win the last two league titles. We will have a final game. Can Coach “Slick Rick” and the Gatlins do the improbably and win it all without the reigning league M.V.P? Or, will team Mayhem come back with a vengeance? Tune in Monday when the MannofStat will bring the word to the masses.

This is the final installment of The Blue View; the pleasure has been all mine. Thanks to the MannofStat for the opportunity and allowing me to share rare air; it is truly an honor-word is bond! Much respect to the recreation staff. They made it fun everyday. And, big ups to all the players. You make it go. We have our ups and downs, but we live and we learn and we continue to grow. The only thing that’s final is the score, ya heard?

Fade to Blue…

One Love,

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2010 by Paul Brown

Bringing the Heat: (Fuego) Day 19

B-ballers,


What’s crackin?

The name of the game is elimination. Yesterday (Day 18, The Blue View) “The Realest” were the first to go on the extinction list. Today team “Elixir” followed. “TNT” was much too much for the “Elixir” squad to conquer. “TNT,” “E-Smoove” and “Bucktown” combined for 44 of team “Gatlins” 71 points. Mass production compared to their 12 and 4 point subpar efforts in yesterday’s 66-54 loss to team “Mayhem.”

Today’s atmosphere was electric. “Bucktown” led the “Gatlins” in an inspirational pregame chant, while “Elixir” coach “Red” attempted to engage the “Gatlins” in some verbal pregame fireworks. The trash talking, the hard fouls and the competitiveness make up the triangle for playoff basketball across the board. The NBA or deathrow, playoff basketball ignites a fire within the most subtle of characters. So acknowledge: There’s a sweet song playing on death row and I’m about to turn up the volume. Ya heard?

“Gatlins” (11-4) vs “Elixir” (6-9)

Both teams want to play for the chip, but only one can advance. The “Gatlins” clinched a date with team “Mayhem” for one of possibly two championship games tomorrow. They defeated “Elixir” 71-56. The “Gatlins” were led by the “E-Smoove” operator. Taking no shorts, “E-Smoove” dropped a heavy load on team “Elixir.” He finished the day with a monstrous 26 points (15 in the 2nd half), 6 rebounds, 4 feeds, 4 steals and 4 swats. “Bucktown” recorded his first double/double of the postseason. He tallied, 18 points (playoff career best), 10 boards, 2 assists and 2 blocks. An explosive output for “TNT” indeed, but coach “Slick Rick” lit the fuse in yesterday’s Rap Session: “They have to play like there’s no tomorrow, because it’s now or never.”

“Nasty Nas” took heed to his coach’s declaration. He responded with 4 points, 14 boards (playoff career best) and 4 swats(playoff career best). “Flex” was the symbolism for victory when he came off the bench to contribute 3 points to a dominant “Gatlins” victory.

“J-Rock” put forth another big time playoff performance. He led “Elixir” with 24 points (14 in the 2nd half), 14 boards, 4 feeds, 3 steals and 4 swats. He exits this year’s postseason with playoff averages of 22.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.1 steals and 2.2 blocks. Team “Elixir” led 30-25 at the reces, but the “Gatlins” beat them on the glass 41-30.

In 3 playoff outings, “Hear-N-Soul” has averaged 23.2 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.1 steals. He finished the day with 16 points (6/6 from the stripe), 9 boards and 3 thefts. The pulse of “Heart-N-Soul” is beating all the way to the championship game. His hypertensive on court activities will be essential if team “Gatlins” has any chance of ending the 13 game winning streak of team “Mayhem.” Ya heard?

2010 All-Tournament Squad

“The Phenom”

“Heart-N-Soul”

“J-Rock”

“E-Smoove”

“Silk Money”

Honorable mentions: “Bigg Dogg,” The Human Eraser”, “Nasty Nas” and “Bucktown”

Nuff Said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat: Week 9 Rap Session

B-ballers,


The final week of our b-ball tournament is upon us. It’s the part of the season where I love what’s to come, but I hate when it’s over. Feel me?  With 2 playing days remaining, I caught up with the title hoisting tandem of player and coach, “Lil’ Magic” and his coach “Slick Rick.” Over the past 3 seasons, the two have collaborated for 2 championships and an all-time best, 39-6 record. Word is bond!

But, this season has cast a major pothole in the middle of their road to glory. The absence of “Lil’ Magic” from the year’s postseason is big. Looking in the stat book and not recording his numbers seems foreign to me: “Rebound Lil’ Magic, assist Lil’ Magic, steal Lil’ Magic, basket & 1, Lil’ Magic.” I mean, if I’m going through withdrawal, I can only imagine what his coach is experiencing. Well, I guess the only way to find out is to ask. Right?

MannofStat: Madd drama coach.

Slick: Yeah MannofStat, it is.

MannofStat: You lose the league’s reigning M.V.P. right before the playoffs, but you gained a 1st team All-World selection and a former Defensive Player of the Year. Are you relieved or still disappointed?

Slick: Losing Lil’ Magic was a tough blow. He gives so much to his team as a leader. The intangibles he brings to a team is immeasurable. In the past 2 years he’s won the chip. So, its disappointing to know that he won’t be in this year’s postseason defending his title. But, we have to move on. What’s done is done. The addition of “E-Smoove” and “Bucktown” gives us a legitimate shot at winning the chip and for that, I’m relieved.

MannofStat: “Lil’ Magic,” your backcourt was basically unstoppable this year. HBO and Showtime put up some phenomenal numbers. What adjustments will your squad have to make in your absence?

Lil’ Magic: They’re definitely gonna have to trust each other more. And, everyone is gonna have to step their game up a notch. (Pauses and shakes his head)

MannofStat: It’s killing you not to be out there competing, isn’t it?

Lil’ Magic: No doubt man. I feel bad for letting my team down, by not being able to finish the year. I can’t blame nobody but myself for getting a write-up for something so minor.

MannofStat: That’s real talk Dunn, but you know “Heart-N-Soul” is gonna bring the show to the people. If your role players bring the heat, it shouldn’t be that difficult to overcome your absence.

Lil’ Magic: True that MannofStat. I don’t doubt that “Nasty Nas” and “Billy Ho” can step it up, but I’d much rather be in the heat of the battle with my teammates. Not watching them from the sidelines.

Slick: Let me say this, I expect “Nasty Nas” and “Billy Ho” to take their games to the next level. Both of them are capable of taking it over. They have to play like there is no tomorrow, because its now or never.

MannofStat: Aight. Well, tell me this coach, with your recent acquisition of “TNT,” is Mayhem still the favorite to win the chip?

Slick: Of course. I mean, they won their last 11 games including the last 2 against us (Gatlins). They’re the regular season champs. They’re definitely the team to beat, but there are four teams fighting for the chip. So, for now, team Mayhem is the favorite. But, the team that wants it the most will be the favorite when the final buzzer sounds.

Lil’ Magic: “The Phenom” is a tough match up for anybody. He’s a great player and he has a strong supporting cast, which will make it even tougher to stop him. If we can contain him and force his teammates into taking some bad shots, I think we can beat them.

Note: “Mayhem” defeated the “Gatlins” 66-54. Team “Gatlins” will play “Elixir” tomorrow. The winner faces “Mayhem” in the championship game/games. So, the predictions of “Lil’ Magic” and “Slick Rick” can still come to pass. Ya heard?

Be Easy,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat: (The Blue View) Day 18

Sixty-two degrees overcast and partly cloudy, a ten percent chance of precipitation in playoff-intensified air! Game one featured the 2nd seed “Gatlins” vs the #1 seed “Mayhem.” At the 19:38 mark, .22 into the contest: “Timeout Mayhem.” The call came not from coach “Dirty Bird”, but from the wily veteran, “Diesel” who spoke to his team with vehemence. The only words clearly decipherable from the scorer’s table were “no layups!”

Message received. “Mayhem” emerged from the time out playing ferocious defense. Not only challenging every shot, but also every pass, every rebound; every dribble. A gritty performance by “Heart-N-Soul” who had 12 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists in the first half finishing with 29 points (career high), 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 1 steal. He was countered by a just as determined “The Phenom” 33 points (17 in 1st half) 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 3steals, 1 block (16/17 from the stripe) – 32-21, “Mayhem” at the half.


Points were hard to come by for the “Gatlins” for the defensive intensity by “Mayhem” never waned. “Scoop,” 13 points, 11 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks, fouled out at the 5:22 mark. And, just as it seemed the “Gatlins” would make a late push, a 3 point dagger by “Frost,” 5 points, 1 rebound, 4 assists, 2 steals and 1 block off the bench killed all momentum and sealed the win 66-54.

Although the “Gatlins” lost “Lil’ Magic,” they are still a deeply talented team acquiring “E-Smoove” 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 4 blocks and “Bucktown” 4 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks via supplemental draft. But, they have not had the time to gel as a unit and they were not prepared for the defensive onslaught that was “Mayhem!”

Game 2 featured the #4 seed “The Realest” vs the #3 seed “Elixir” in an elimination game. “Silk Money” 24 points, 13 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal is on his game early 18-10 advantage. “Elixir” lead by “J-Rock” 30 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 3 blocks, respond with a 14-6 run; and it’s on and poppin. “The Realest” lead by 3 (34-31) at the half, getting a boost from “Scrappy” who hit 11 of his 13 points in the 1st half. It was nip and tuck the rest of the way.

Tempers flared, elbows flew, double fouls were called: playoff basketball. “Elixir” loses “Bigg Dogg” 11 points, 3 rebounds and 1 steal, to visitation with 11:08 to play and a seeming advantage went to “The Realest.” But, great team chemistry from “The Gem,” “Big Shot Bo” and “Lil’ Bison”, who combined for 16 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 blocks along with “J-Rock” to close it out down the stretch and hold on for a 57-51 win.

And, we say goodbye to “The Realest” and thanks for the effort. Also much respect for being men of character. This is our league and we represent it with everything we do. And we will be back tomorrow with unfinished business. I’m out.

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2010 by Paul Brown

Bringing the Heat: (Humidity) Day 17

B-ballers,


What it do?

After all of the controversy, suspensions and team realignments, the playoffs are finally here. Despite the fact that you can’t please everybody and we’ll never be able to agree on everything, the one thing that we can all attest to: “A black eye in the game doesn’t keep the cream from rising to the top.” Ya heard? B-ballers, welcome to the playoffs!

The first contest of this 2010 postseason featured the top seeded “Mayhem” (12-1) vs “The Realest” (1-12). This year’s regular season M.V.P “The Phenom” was in rare form. He scored 13 of his team’s 27 first half points. He finished the day with 29 point (6/9 from the stripe), 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. “The Human Eraser” tallied his first double/double of this year’s postseason. He finished with 18 points (11 in the 2nd half), 11 boards, 2 assists, 3 steals and 1 block.

This game was close early. “The Realest” trailed 27-21 at the half, but team “Mayhem” beat them to loose balls and outscored “The Realest” 32-16 in the 2nd half. “Silk Money” and “Concrete” combined for 20 points, 16 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks, to lead “The Realest.” All predictions proved to be true as team “Mayhem” advances to the winner’s bracket with a 59-37 drubbing of “The Realest.”

Game 2 was a rollercoaster ride for the fans of team “Gatlins” (10-3), as well as for the fans of team “Elixir” (5-8). Controversy surrounds the “Gatlins” due to the last season acquisition of the explosive tandem known as “TNT.” Acquired from the now defunct “Ruffnex” squad, “E-Smoove” brings his 18 points, 9.7 rebounds and 2.3 blocks to a “Gatlins” backcourt that no longer has the services of 1st team All-World selection and last’s season’s M.V.P., “Lil’ Magic.”

The other half of TNT, “Bucktown” brings a high level of frontcourt aggressiveness in the form of 15.3 points and 7.4 rebounds a game. In the absence of Lil Magic, TNT combined for 17 points, 14 boards, 4 assists, 7 thefts and 4 blocks. This is probably the biggest team acquisition since Lebron James and Chris Bosh sailed into Sout Beach. Na mean?

“Heart-N-Soul” is the glue that holds team “Gatlins” together. He led all scorers with 26 points (16 in the 1st half). The “Gatlins” took a commanding 32-19 lead, going into the break. “Billy Ho” was a key factor in the 2nd half. His total line was 12 points (2/4 from the stripe), 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steals. “Nasty Nas” contributed 6 points, 10 boards, 1 steal, and 1 block to the “Gatlins” cause.

Defense became offense for team “Gatlins.” They led by as much as 19 points, but team “Elixir’s” “J-Rock” kept the game in reach by bringing his all-purpose game to the battleground. He finished with 13 points, 10 boards, 7 dimes, 1 steal and 1 block. Team “Elixir” cut the lead to 6, 53-47 with 7:32 left to play. “J-Rock” was 1 of 4 “Elixir” players to score in double figures. “Bigg Dogg” finished with a team high 15 points, including the 2 clutch free throws to tie the game at 59, with less than 2 minutes to play. He also tallied 8 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 block.

“The Gem” finished with 12 points (4/4 from the stripe), 1 assist and 2 steals. “Lil’ Bison” got in the mix with 11 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals. It was a great team effort, to come back and nearly steal this 1st round game from the 2nd seeded team “Gatlins,” but, “Heart-N-Soul” sealed the fate of team “Elixir” by nailing 2 clutch free throws with 3.8 seconds to play, sending “Elixir” to the loser’s bracket with a troublesome 61-59 loss. “Heart-N-Soul” finished with 26 points (7/9 from the stripe), 10 boards (playoff career high), 3 assists and 3 steals.

The new identity of team “Gatlins” has proven victorious today. We’ll see how they match up with top seeded “Mayhem” tomorrow. Be sure to catch this week’s Rap Session with “Gatlins’” coach “Slick Rick” and “Mr. Basketball,” “Lil’ Magic.” Until then, holla if ya hear me.

Be Easy,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat: Week 8 Rap Session

B-ballers,


What’s poppin?

Life is surely what you make it. So, it shouldn’t be hard to conceive the thought of a death row prisoner establishing a legacy founded on authenticity, diligence and positivity. My existence is defined by my ability to facilitate others. As the MannofStat, I don’t create enthusiasm, I convey it. Feel me?

This week’s Rap Session is more of a graduation than an interview. The Phenom has spent more than a decade establishing himself as more than just a scorer. Over the years his growth as a baller has been nothing short of phenomenal. Na mean?

The league’s all-time leading scorer has claimed another scoring title (33 points per game). His squad, Mayhem (11-1) is the top seed going into the postseason and the letter “P” in the abbreviation M.V.P now stands for “Phenom.” Ya heard?

MannofStat: Phenom, what it do?

Phenom: What’s poppin?

MannofStat: Mayhem is doing work, Dunn.

Phenom: No doubt.

MannofStat: Every time I see that Allstate commercial, I think of all the damage your squad is doing.

Phenom: Dollar for dollar, nobody protects you from Mayhem like Allstate. (Laughs)

MannofStat: (Laughs) I mean, you ended the regular season on an 11 game winning streak.

Phenom: True indeed.

MannofStat: The last time you were on a squad that finished the regular season on a lengthy winning streak was in 2007 with the “Undertakerz.” Talk about how that season ended and how it compares with this season.

Phenom: The Undertakerz, under the strict and enthusiastic coach, “Smokey” was nothing short of exhilarating. He made sure that every member of our squad made a contribution, including himself, shouting encouraging epithets from the sideline (Laughs).

MannofStat: No doubt. (Laughs) “Smoke-Digga” has never been known for biting his tongue. Ya heard?

Phenom: That’s real. We ended that regular season strong and like this season, after losing that opening game, we said: “Yo, we’re better than this.” And, with that realization, we played better. Our 2007 season ended with us (Undertakerz) winning the chip and that’s how I see this season’s run. It’s all about heart and determination, something that team Mayhem has plenty of.

MannofStat: I can’t help but think about me, you, Tricky Trap and E-Boogie (R.I.P.) doing our thing back in the day. What has changed the most about your game since those hot summer days on D-block?

Phenom: That’s a good question. For one, I have to rely more on my jump shot now rather than penetration. To sum it up, you can say I have a grown man’s game. Like yours, only a little more flare (Laughs).

MannofStat: Aight, you want me to put the pen down and come out of retirement don’t you? (Laughs)

Phenom: (Laughs) No need man. You Tricky Trap and E-Boogie (R.I.P) are iconic to me. Playing with you and against you guys was an honor. Real talk.

MannofStat: That’s what’s up.

Phenom: If I can, I would like to comment on a past interview you had with Lil’ Bison and Concrete.

MannofStat: Do what you do, Dunn. Leave the masses with some realness.

Phenom: Well, the question was: “how has death row b-ball affected their lives?” Their responses touched me. Their words reverberated my thoughts. We are called the worse of the worst due to a propagation of fear and insufficient understanding. Feel me?

MannofStat: For sure.

Phenom: This is a good look, MannofStat. We need all of the positive press that we can get.

MannofStat: Word is bond!

Nuff said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat: Regular Season Wrap Up

Scoring Champ/ Regular Season M.V.P
The Phenom (12 games played)
33 points (396) total), 8.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.5 steals

Defensive Player of the Year
Heart-N-Soul (12 games played)
3.8 steals per game (44 total)

Top Rebounder
The Carpenter (10 games played)
16 rebounds per game (160 total)

Assist Leader
Lil’ Magic (12 games played)
3.8 assists per game (46 total)

Top Shot Blocker
The Human Eraser (12 games played)
4.4 blocks per game (52 total)

Most Improved Player
Billy Ho (12 games played)
9.1 points (21 career high), 3.5 rebounds, 1.8 steals and .8 assists

Top 6th Man
Instant Offense (12 games palyed)
Career high 22 points

Hack Man Award Winner
Silk Money (12 games played)
39 fouls, 1 disqualification

Bringing the Heat: The Blue View Day 16

The final game of the regular season. Unfortunately prison politics has resulted in mass player ineligibility and confusion. And, what began as an activity to boost self-esteem improve morale and contribute to a more stable environment for inmate and staff alike is turning into an episode of the Twilight zone.

Today’s game featuring team #3 Ruffnex vs team #5 Elixir has the Ruffnex suiting up only four (4) players and no coach. However, as prisoners with little to no resources, we are accustomed to having to make something out of nothing – and that is exactly what happened today in what turned out to be the most entertaining game of the season.

Elixir pulled out to an early lead, but the competitive spirit of the Ruffnex had the air charged with electricity. An incredible shooting display by Ernie “Instant Offense,” who proved that he can also be effective in a starting role, poured in 14 of his career high 22 points in the 1st half to keep the game close. “Bucktown” (23 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 blocks) did what he do, combining with Ernie for 27 of the Rufnex 35 1st half point total.

On the other side, Jimi-Jam (21 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist and 3 steals) was on fire, hitting seemingly from everywhere and Elixir lead at the half, 39-35. “Runny Ray” (8 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists), energy and never say die attitude characterized his team’s play throughout the game. “E-Smoove” did not score his first point until 3:58 of the 1st half, but that was the only part of his game that was off.

He expended a super-human effort on both ends of the court and literally left it all on the floor. He finished with a sick line of (14 points, 14 rebounds, 9 assists, 5 steals and 3 blocks) and the Ruffnex took a 5 point lead early in the 2nd half, but “The Gem” (22 point, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals) pumped in 18 of his 22 points in the 2nd half and was the glue that stabilized Elixir leading them to a 77-67 win.

Solid performances by “J-Rock” (8 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks), “Bigg Dogg (17 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals) and “Big-Shot Bo” (7 points, 16 rebounds) and total domination of the boards with Elixir grabbing 61, the highest total in one game for any team this season.

Big ups to Elixir coach “Red” for a classy coaching effort in an awkward situation; an all season long. Today, lemons became lemonade. Great game! And the winner was – The human spirit. Basketball and life: Team sports, ya heard?

Player of the week honors go to your 6th man of the year; Ernie “Instant Offense”. Congratulations “Instant O” on a great week and a great season. See ya in the playoffs.

Mr. Blue
Copyright © 2010 by Paul Brown

Bringing the Heat: Week 7 Rap Session

B-ballers,


What it do?

Since the origin of basketball, every era has had a baller or two who’s credited for revolutionizing the sport (e.g. Wilt Chamberlin (60’s), Earl “The Pearl” Monroe (70’s), Michael “Air” Jordan (80’s), & Allen “The Answer” Iverson (90’s)).

With that said, I introduce you to the Lincoln & the Cadillac of our league, J-Rock of team Elixir (4-7) and Silk Money of the Realest (1-10). On cruise control, these cats fill up the stat sheet whenever they take the court. In their last head to head matchup, they combined for 45 points, 21 rebounds, 7 steals and 3 blocks. They are the manifestations of a revolutionary b-ball league. So open your ears b-ballers and embrace the sounds of truth, because “the Revolution Will Not be Televised.” Ya heard? Thanks for the jewel, Mr. Gill Scott Herron.

MannofStat: J-Rock, what’s good Dunn?

J-Rock: What’s good mann.

MannofStat: You took 3 stitches to the eye. The next game you played with a latex glove to protect the abrasions on your shooting hand. Injuries have been somewhat of an issue. Will you be 100% for the playoff stretch?

J-Rock: I mean, being 100% is a luxury. In society, as a convicted felon on death row, my essence is already degraded to some degree. We sleep on steel and ball on concrete. Just because you see blood, don’t make it a foul. This is death row b-ball. There is no 100% guarantee.

Even if my body is feeling good, my subconscious might be in the courts with the State Bureau of Investigations or the Racial Justice Act, but you battle and you learn. You play through whatever. That’s the making of a champion.

MannofStat: For sure.

Silk: No doubt.

MannofStat: Silk, do you think your squad can make a legitimate run in the playoffs?

Silk: All I can say is don’t sleep on us cause we can be somebody’s nightmare. My dream was always to play ball. I didn’t get to finish school so this death row tournament is the closest I can get to my dream right now. Come playoffs, I’m a bring it. Not just for me, but for my teammates and everyone responsible for helping me improve my game. You’ll see.

MannofStat: I don’t doubt it Dunn. I watched you bring the heat last season when you took top 6th man and rookie of the year honors.

Silk: Yeah, we (team Locked & Loaded) won the chip and we broke one of your precious team “Dynasty” records too.

MannofStat: (Laughs)

J-Rock: (Laughs) Which one?

Silk: Margin of victory, Rock. 46 points. Respect the game fellas.

MannofStat: Respect

Silk: It was a good year with “Locked and Loaded,” but I felt like I had a lot to prove last season. You know, I was trying to establish myself as a baller. This season, I wanna be the reason my teammates get better.

MannofStat: What type of impact has death row b-ball had on your life J-Rock?

J-Rock: At times, its been troublesome, yet rewarding. A growth experience, you know trial and error. The court is a place where I can break out of my normal reticence. Nothing is hidden. Any feelings or emotions that are camouflaged elsewhere are revealed on the court.

MannofStat: No doubt. You gotta leave it all on the court to be recognized as one of the best.

J-Rock: For real, I mean, prison is like being in an atmosphere of stealth. I’ve learned that being an athlete is a service. Ballers provide entertainment, a past time for fans. It’s no different on the row. Feel me?

MannofStat: Most definitely, Dunn. Ms. Angela Davis said it best: “Walls turned sideways are bridges.” Death row b-ball is the bridge that fills the gap between us and the masses. And, if you don’t know, now you know. Word is bond!

Keep on Keepin,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat: (Humidity) Day 15

B-ballers,

What’s good?

Our tournament took a low blow this past weekend. Eight ballers were rules ineligible for this upcoming post season, leaving team Ruffnex (4-7) with 4 available players. We’ll get a taste of how competitive these four players can be when they square off with team Elixir (4-7) on Wednesday, in a battle for the #3 seed. Starting a game with only four players will be a first for death row basketball. Real talk.

It’s disheartening to know that some of our favorite ballers won’t be competing for this season’s chip. The truth is this: sometimes the politics of the penitentiary outweighs the privileges of the prisoner. But, no form of politics has ever been 100% legitimacy. Feel me?

As I write this, our death row b-ball tournament is being dissected like the North Carolina Tar Heels’ football program. Word is bond! For the sake of the ballers who have been disqualified, for the inquiring minds of the masses, and for the memory of my man, Earl J. Richmond, aka, “The Blueprint,” the ball has to keep on rolling in order for my ink to continue flowing. Na mean?

The only game played today was Mayhem (11-1) vs The Realest (1-11). This game came down to the wire. The stench of upset was in the air. The Realest, searching for a reason to be inspired going into the postseason, trailed 31-28 at the break. Silk Money led the Realest with a career high 28 points (5/11 from the stripe). He literally took over this game by imposing his will and giving the Realest a 5 point lead with 8:36 to play.

The Phenom refused to relinquish team Mayhem’s b-ball superiority in what should’ve been a meaningless game for Mayhem. But, if you don’t know, now you know. No game is meaningless to The Phenom. He led team Mayhem with 34 points (7/11 from the stripe), 14 boards, 2 assists and 2 steals, extending the Mayhem winning streak to 11 games, by pulling out a 61-55 victory.

“The Blanket” tallied 11 points (3 treys), 2 rebounds and 2 assists for team Mayhem. Silk Money’s total line was: 28 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 1 block. Defensive stopper for The Realest, Concrete tallied his first double/double of the season, 13 points (9 in the 1st half), 11 boards and 1 block. The point, The General, contributed 10 points, including 2 back to back treys to tie the game at 40 with 13:01 left to play. He also snatched 8 rebounds and had 1 steal.

I want the recently disqualified ballers to hear this: The forfeiture of your participation does not exclude you from our b-ball fam. Keep your head tight. Ya heard?

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Bringing the Heat (The Blue View) Day 14

After a full week off, b-ball is back and we are once again putting in work. To quote my man Rick Ross, “Hallelujah!” We’re only one day away from double elimination playoffs, but the tension is already in the air. How bad do you want it?


Game 1 featured Team #1 Gatlins vs team #3 Ruffnex. The Ruffnex started out tight. Points were hard to come by due to Lil’ Magic (19 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 6 steals) and the Prince of Thieves, Heart-N-Soul (17 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 7 steals) filling the lanes like technicians combining for 13 steals. But, the Ruffnex find a way with aggressive play and go on a 9-0 run to take a 5 point lead.

The Gatlins respond with a 8-3 run of their own. “Instant Offense” came off the bench to give the Ruffnex a huge spark with two rainbow shots from downtown Raleigh. And, the Ruffnex held a 2 point advantage at the half 26-24. The 2nd half began at a blistering pace. The Ruffnex pushed their lead to as many as 17 points playing as well as they have all season. E-Smoove was on another planet. He lead all scorers with (24 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 blocks) and Chubsta chipped in with (8points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals); just another day at the office for the chairman of the boards.

Bucktown contributed a steady (14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block). The Gatlins fought back like gladiators and eventually cut the lead to four, but that’s as close as they would get. The difference for the Ruffnex was communication, help defense and (16) assists; a season high for the team – solid all around fundamentals. Final 61-57.

Game 2 featured team #5 Elixir vs team #4 the Realest – Bloody Thursday. We had sloppy play to begin and aggressive plat throughout reminiscent of a Ravens-Steelers match up. There were a few plays that could very well have been called unnecessary roughness. And in fact we did have a lane-violation called “offsetting penalties.” Bigg Dogg (3 points, 16 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals) made his presence felt with 11 1st half boards and Big-Shot Bo had (7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, 3 blocks) at the half to stabilize team Elixir and give them a 6 point edge at the half 27-21. The 2nd half began with Pitt Bull (14 points, 16 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals) playing big and The Realest fighting back to take a 2 point lead. Elixir regroups. J-Rock (26 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 blocks) hit 7-straight points for team Elixir.

The Realest kept it close with spectacular play from Silk Money (19 points, 13 rebounds, 5 assists, 6 steals, 1 block) and hard hat-lunch bucket play from Concrete (7 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block) but it was not enough and Elixir held off the Realest 53-49. And if this is an example of what the playoffs have in store, I’ll bring the first –aid kit. You can find me at the scorer’s table where the score is what you make it. And when the ref blows the whistle and points at you – oh yes; the foul is on you! Next stop: Playoffs

Mr. Blue
Copyright © 2010 by Paul Brown

Bringing the Heat (Humidity) Update

B-ballers,


What’s good?

The whistles have been on hiatus since 9/23/10. I’ve been told that play will resume on Thursday (10/7/10). My time away from the table has been brutal to my b-ball soul. But, I’ve been seeking refuge through football. I’m a devout Penn State Nittany Lions’ fan (3-2) and everyone knows that I bleed Eagles’ green (2-2). Needless to say, this past weekend didn’t make being away from the table no better.

Penn State got trounced by the Iowa Hawkeyes 24-3 and Donovan McNabb came back to town and stole a “Vicktory” from the Philly faithful. Na mean? But, it’s all good. I’ll always be true to my crew. Speaking of, I wanna take this opportunity to stay true to the “Monster Ballers” in our league. We still have two days (4games) remaining in the regular season, but here’s a forecast of how some of the ballers are putting it down, going into the post season.

Check the math, then holla if ya hear me.

Be Easy,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann



Monster Ballers

The Phenom (11 games played)
*32.9 points (362 total), 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 27 steals (29 total)

Lil’ Magic (11 games played)
23 points (253 total), 10 rebounds (110 total), *4assists (44 total), *3.5 steals (38 total)

Heart-N-Soul (11 games played)
19.4 points (213 total), 7.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists (34 total), 3.4 steals (37 total)

The Human Eraser (11 games played)
13.1 points (144 total), 10.8 rebounds (118 total), *4.5 blocks (49 total), 2.7 steals (29 total)

E-Smoove (10 games played)
18.5 points (185 total), 8.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 steals (27 total), 2.2 blocks (22 total)

Silk Money (10 games played)
17.7 points (177 total), 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.7 steals (27 total), 2.1 blocks (21 total)

J-Rock (8 games played)
16.4 points, 8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 2.3 steals (19 total) and 1.3 blocks

Bucktown (10 games played)
14.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 1.5 steals, 1.7 assists

Bigg Dogg (10 games played)
12.3 points (123 total), 11.1 rebounds, 1.7 steals, 3.4 assists

The Carpenter (9 games played)
8.2 points, *15.7 rebounds (142 total), 2.4 steals, 2.3 assists


*League Leading Stat

Bringing the Heat: Week 6 Rap Session

B-ballers,

What it do?

This week the rain got the best of us. Putting our regular season finale on hold until next week. The whistles have been nonexistent, but the ballers continue to make noise. Ya heard?

This week’s Rap Session is a special blend of reflection, enthusiasm and history, so break out your metaphorical umbrellas, because last week’s co-player of the week, The Diesel is gonna shower you with the realness of death row b-ball.

MannofStat: Diesel, what’s good Dunn?

Diesel: What’s up, MannofStat?

Both: Exchange the team Dynasty handshake (2 slaps of the right palm).

MannofStat: We go way back Dunn. D-block, Mobb Deep, and Team Dynasty. To your recollection, what was our best tournament?

Diesel: Without a doubt, 2006 man. When team Dynasty took the chip.

MannofStat: Word is bond. We did that Dynasty handshake all season long. Right?

Diesel: And in the championship, the whole squad wore our left sock pulled all the way up to our knees, in memory of The Blueprint..

MannofStat: Yeah, 2006 was history in the making for sure.

Diesel: We had a lot of talent on that team, man. Lil’ Magic, Heart-N-Soul, E-Boogie (R.I.P), J-Rock and you Maestro.

MannofStat: Maestro?

Diesel: Yeah, you was the conductor and we made some beautiful music that season. Know what I’m saying?

MannofStat: Aight. I’m feeling that.

Diesel: That championship meant a lot to that team, because 2005 was a stressful year. I wasn’t focused in 2005. But, in 2006 I just wanted to do it, like Nike. Going 14-0 that way we did set a b-ball precedent.

MannofStat: Speaking of b-ball precedents, D-block was considered baller’s row at one time. Cats like “Cornbread,” Ed Lemmons (R.I.P.), Robbie Lyons (R.I.P.), Willie Fisher (R.I.P), John Daniels (R.I.P.) and “Jamal” Desmond Carter (R.I.P.) required you to bring you’re a-game every rec period. Lil’ Magic and The Phenom were youngstas on the come up. But they were still holding their own, but when I say the name Earl J. Richmond, what comes to mind?

Diesel: Ahhh Man, its so much. Humility, confidence, steadfastness; the guy was solid all the way across the board, on and off the court.

MannofStat: No doubt.

Diesel: But, let me say this Maestro, if it wasn’t for God and death row b-ball, I don’t know where my focus would be. When I didn’t have anything to look forward to, I can always look forward to the competition and competitiveness of b-ball.

MannofStat: Respect.

Diesel: Aight.

MannofStat: Your squad, Mayhem, is the top seed going into the playoffs. You’ve got them amped with that Mayhem pregame chant, but will it be enough to win the chip this year?.

Diesel.: Well, we both know that the playoffs is a new season. Anybody in this tournament can be beat and its been proven during the regular season. We have to focus on the defensive side of the ball. And maintain our roles without distraction. If we can establish this throughout the playoffs we’ll have a very good chance of bringing home the chip.

MannofStat: Well said Dunn. Is it anything else you’d like your fellow ballers and the masses to be aware of?

Diesel: ….AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH Mayhem!

MannofStat: (Laughs) it must be game time, cause that’s what’s up. Mayhem is definitely in the building. Ya heard?

Be Easy,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2010 by Leroy Elwood Mann