Concrete Soul: Rap Session, Week 3

B-ballers, 

What’s good?

Role players. A championship is nothing more than a mirage without them. With them? The chip is inevitable. Hakeem “The Dream” had Mario Elie. “Air” Jordan had B.J. Armstrong. Kobe “Bean” Bryant had Derek Fisher. And, “Dr. J” had Bobby Jones, a.k.a. “The Secretary of Defense.” Proof that role players help the best players achieve greatness. Feel me?

To me, watching basketball is much deeper than who’s going to score the next basket. I enjoy observing the intangible qualities of a baller. I mean, have the patience to make the extra pass, game clock awareness or shifting the momentum of a game, by diving for a loose ball are all qualities of a good ball player, that won’t show up in a statline. However, I applaud these efforts, because greatness on the court can’t be accomplished without the gritty efforts of the role player. Ya heard?

Me and Geezy go back like bucket seats in a 86’ Maxima. Like most role players, he’s comfortable in the back seat, but today is his opportunity to take the front seat and drive us into his perspective of death row b-ball. Na mean?

MannofStat: Geezy, what it do, Dunn?

Geezy: I’m good

MannofStat: I know interviews ain’t really your thing, so I appreciate your time for this rap session.

Geezy: It’s all good, MannofStat. Talking b-ball with you is always a pleasure.

MannofStat: Well, we’re definitely gonna talk some b-ball. But, first things first, how long have you been on the row?

Geezy: (Laughs) I see we’re starting out with the tough questions first, huh?

MannofStat: (Laughs) Gotta give the people what they want Geezy.

Geezy: Ah man, It’s been a minute. I actually got here in April 2000.

MannofStat: I’m gonna turn the clock back then.

Geezy: Let’s do it

MannofStat: D-block, what up?

Geezy: Oh man. Cats were ballin crazy hard. See, back then we only went outside twice a week. So, dudes were trying to get it in. Straight grudging and T’ings.

MannofStat: Word is bond.

Geezy: Before you continue, MannofStat, I gotta shout out Ed Lemons, Diesel, Wakil, John Daniels and of course yo’self, Da MannofStat. It was all love back then. But crazy intense.

MannofStat: How has your game improved over the years?

Geezy: One word, MannofStat. “Ambidextrous.” To be honest, watching yo’self, E-Boogie and Puff, all the cats with the dual handed skillz. It really left an impression on me. So yeah, working on my left hand has to be my most accomplished improvement. Also, the I.Q. that comes with the years of playing.

MannofStat: Is winning a championship in your near future?

Geezy: Most def, fam. I think coach “Petey Crack” (Lil’ Magic) assembled a decent squad this year. Chaos will definitely contend for the chip. The level of completion is high, but we’ve got some returning vets and some new recruits and everybody has their eyes on the prize. So, we’ll see.

MannofStat: That’s what’s up. Keep on keepin, Geezy.

Geezy: No doubt.

Both: (Bump fists) 

Stay Up,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Mid-Week Special, Day 6

What do you do when you’ve been labeled “the worst of the worst,” cast off from society and left to die? You accept the challenge ; Elevate! Game 1 Chaos vs. Hustle. Silk Money sets the tone of how its going to be with a pull-up trey off the rip, proving his All-World status with an effortless (16 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks) and Chaos blows out to an early 20-7 lead they would never relinquish. He along with Heart-N-Soul *15 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals) frustrated team Hustle, swarming the passing lanes like killer bees.

The lead was cut to 4 in a scoring lull for Chaos when Frost stepped up, hitting all of his 14 points in the first half including (4 – treys) boosting the lead to 37-2`. That lead ballooned to 47-25 deep into the 3rd quarter and J-Rock (7 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 1 block) was whistled for a technical foul at the 2:22 mark that seemed to ignite his team, who would finish on a torrid 31-14 run led by Scoop who played out of his mind in the 2nd half with (26 points, [18 in 2nd half], 8 rebounds, 1 assist and 4 blocks).

Bigg Dogg’s (5 points, 17 monster boards, 4 assists and 2 blocks) and the General nailing two huge treys (3 for the game) cutting a 23 point deficit down to 4 at 60-56 with under 2 minutes to play, but it would be too little too late as the door got slammed shut with two humongous boards by the Chubsta. The Carpenter went in the paint and got his grown-man on (10 points, 13 boards, 2 assists and 2 steals) sealing the deal and allowing Chaos to escape 61-56.

Game 2 same the Quiet Storm and the Silverbacks do battle. The Silverbacks did it their way; gully. With lock-down D. and get it with your muscle style of play led by Bucktown’s (12 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist and 4 blocks) and Sunchild’s (4 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 blocks). Good team balance with the Diesel, Tone and Fowl combining for (22 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, 10 steals and 1 block) and once again coming away with the rebounding edge 43-35.

The Quiet Storm were paced by the Phenom’s (19 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks) and E-Smoove’s (15 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks). E-Smoove put it in over-drive early with – 9points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 1 block in the 1st half. And with (11 points) from Lil’ Bison, it was enough to secure a hard-fought 61-47 victory.

We’re about half way through the battle for the chip. Just when you think it’s over you might find that it’s only just beginning. In basketball as in life, you get out of it what you put into it. Go 100 all the way through. That’s the Blue View.

Mr. Blue

Concrete Soul: Bassline, Day 5

B-ballers, 


What’s poppin?

The NBA finals are now complete. Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd have solidified their positions amongst an elite class of professional ballers. Becoming a NBA champion is a dream come true, for most ballers. The passion to compete between the lines is attained by the best ballers.

Death row is far from a baller’s dream of competing in the NBA. The deprivation of freedom is a nightmare we live from day to day, but thru basketball we can compete for the right to be called a champion. Tragedy to Triumph. Feel me?

The Quiet Storm (3-2) faced team Hustle (2-3) for the second time this season. The final shot made the difference the last time these two teams faced off, a shot that ascended team Hustle to 2-0. But today’s forecast would be much different. You might need your umbrellas.

Team Quiet Storm led 25-13 at the end of the first quarter. They closed out the first half leading 42-27. The Phenom led the way with 25 points (5/6 from the stripe), 11 boards, 4 assists, 3 steals and 1 block. The Phenom appears to be getting back into his scoring groove. In his first three games, he accumulated no more than 17 points. He’s tallied 26 and 25 points in his last two outings and achieving his 5th straight double/double of the season. Nasty Nas and Streets stayed active in the Quiet Storm front court. They collaborated for 18 points and 11 rebounds.

Team Hustle was led by Bigg Dogg (13 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal), but he needed a lot more help because this one was never close. Team Hustle was hung out to dry in a Quiet Storm romp, 67-50. The Quiet Storm 3-game winning streak is the real. The raw uncut. Have your MannofStat O.D’d cause it’s never enough. Holla if ya hear me Lil’ Kim.

Team Chaos stands alone at 4-1. First team All-World selection, Silk Money, came off the bench to tame the beasts. He tallied 18 points (4/4 from the stripe), 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks. Heart-N-Soul aided the demise of the Silverbacks (1-4) with 15 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals of his own. The Carpenter had 14 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals and 1 block. The Carpenter is averaging 12.1 rebounds per game this season.

The Silverbacks were led by Bucktown’s 16 points (10 in the 4th quarter), 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks. Diesel and Wakil a.k.a. T-Owl, combined for 15 rebounds, 6 rebounds and 5 steals, but the Silverbacks were outrebounded 53-28. Word is bond!

Team Chaos recovers from last week’s loss to the Quiet Storm, by shellacking the Silverbacks, 59-42.

Nuff Said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Rap Session, Week 2

B-ballers,


What it do?

The heart of a champion is immeasurable. When opponents suffer fatigue, the champion is just getting his second wind. When the contest appears to be over, the champion knows no end until the final buzzer sounds. Sickness, injury or the dismal circumstances of life can only enhance the enviable capabilities of a champion. Na mean?

In the early 70’s, Willis Reed helped the New York Knicks defeat the Los Angeles Lakers in game 7 of the NBA finals. A badly injured knee wouldn’t suppress Willis’ desire to compete against and defeat one of the league’s most dominant big men, Wilt “The Stilt” Chamberlin.

The 1997 NBA finals showcased Michael “Air” Jordan dismantling the Utah Jazz in a critical game 5, a game in which MJ battled the flu as well as the likes of future hall of famers – Karl “The Mailman” Malone and John Stockton.

This past Tuesday (6/7/11), Dirk Nowitzki set fire to the game 4 aspirations of the Miami Heat. On the court, Dirk was cool as ice water, while battling a fever that registered a 102 degree temperature. Feel me? This unending will to compete is exhibited on our court every day. Take heed and listen to the words of a champion. I now introduce you to Runny Ray.

MannofStat: Runny Ray. It’s good to have you.

Runny Ray: It’s good to be here, MannofStat.

Both: (Exchange the team “Dynasty” handshake (two slaps to the right palm).)

MannofStat: Give me 3 words that best describes your game.

Runny Ray: Defense. Hustle. Rebounding.

MannofStat: That’s what’s up.

Runny Ray: MannofStat, before you continue, I want to say that 2006 was something special, the year of my first championship. It was an honor to play with you and team Dynasty. We couldn’t have done it without you, but then none of us would be doing any of this if it wasn’t for “The Blueprint,” Earl J. Richmond. May he rest in peace.

MannofStat: For sure. The heart of a champion can never die. Earl’s existence continues through us. Ya heard?

Runny Ray: Like the class when the school bell rings, MannofStat.

MannofStat: With three championships to your credit, what’s your vision for team Hustle?

Runny Ray: Winning number four. Why not? We’ve definitely got the team to make it happen.

MannofStat: What palyer – college or pro – best exemplifies the heart of a champion?

Runny Ray: I’m not a basketball historian, MannofStat. That’s no secret, but I like who I like. I’d say Michael Vick. (theMichaelVickStory.com) 7/27/11.

MannofStat: Why?

Runny Ray: He went from being the highest paid player in the NFL to a prison cell. His life as we knew it was over. If the heart of a champion belongs to someone who never gives up, then Michael Vick is just that.

MannofStat: I agree. Being a champion doesn’t necessarily have to be about jewelry. Sometimes its just about how you handle life experiences. You win some, you lose some, but you never stop competing. Word is bond!

Live Well,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Note: As this went to press, Runny Ray’s team Hustle was 2-1. His last outing was a loss to the 1st place team, Chaos (3-0), but he took 3 charges and contributed 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block.

Concrete Soul: Chorus, Day 4

Just another day and death row b-ball is what’s up. Check all attitudes at the gate and bring your game. It’s (G.M.B) Grown Men Ballin,’ ya heard?


Game 1 action saw the Silverbacks vs. team Hustle. High energy and good ball movement early for the Silverbacks. Tone ( 11 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals) pushed the tempo in a tightly contested 1st quarter. The pace picked up in the 2nd with Runny Ray leading team Hustle not only with (4) 2nd quarter points, but also with effort and heart; things that cannot be measured on a stat sheet, but are the foundation of a champion. And the Silverbacks take a 6 point lead at the half – 27-21.

Team Hustle kept the pressure on with J-Rock, Scoop and Bigg Dogg combining for (33 points, 14 boards, 5 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks). Sunchild ratcheted up the defensive intensity keeping team Hustle at bay and changing the game by swinging the momentum back to the Silverbacks. The savvy veteran Diesel would take it from there. His leadership down the stretch; along with the customary double/double from Bucktown (12 points, 12 rebounds and 2 steals), a balanced scoring attack and solid team D. got the Silverbacks their first win in a thriller 49-47.

Game 2 featured the Quiet Storn vs. Chaos in what is shaping up to be a major rivalry. It was the Heart-N-Soul shaw early (15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 6 steals) turning steals into easy fast-break points and an early 8-2 run. Enter The Phenom with atrey-put back and a presence on defense to close the gap 15-11. He would finish with (26 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals), but it was ferocious team D. that would sustain the Quiet Storm led by E-Smoove (17 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks) and Billy Ho (4 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals) to take a 33-28 lead into the half.

The intensity level peaked in the 2nd half with bodies hitting the ground with no regard for the concrete. Something had to give and it was team Chaos seeming to wilt under the pressure, playing erratic and getting beat to almost every loose ball. The Quiet Storm take it 65-62 in an epic battle in what promises to be a war of a season.

Player of the Week honors go to: Sunchild who tallied (11 points, 20 boards, 8 assists, 6 steals and 5 swats) for the week. However, the stats don’t tell the whole story. This man goes 100 on every single play; an impact player- no complaining – grown man basketball, ya dig?

Mr. Blue,
Copyright © 2011 by Paul Brown

Concrete Soul: Bassline, Day 3

B-ballers,


What’s poppin?

Another day of death row basketball is an added rhythm to the heartbeat of your MannofStat. Real talk. Today’s match-ups could easily be interpreted as early season statements.

Quiet Storm (0-2) vs. Silverbacks (0-2)

The 1st half of this contest was no indication of the game’s final outcome. The Silverbacks led 28-23 at the half. Outscoring team Quiet Storm 16-6 in the 2nd quarter, but the Quiet Storm found their groove in the opening minutes of the 2nd half. The precipitation of team Quiet Storm was evident when they accomplished a 13-2 run in just under 3 minutes that gave them a 36-30 lead, with 5:09 to play in the 3rd quarter. There was nothing quiet about this storm when they closed out the 3rd quarter leading 52-36. They outscored the Silverbacks 29-8 in that monsoon of a 3rd quarter.

Scrappy scored 10 of his 14 points in the 3rd quarter for team Quiet Storm. Second team All-World selection, E-Smoove led all scorers with 21 points (13 in the 2nd half). He also tallied 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 1 block. The Phenom produced his 3rd double/double in as many games (17 points, 12 boards, 8 feeds and 6 thefts). The big man for team Quiet Storm, Nasty Nas, tallied 12 point and 7 rebounds to complement his team’s 2nd half onslaught of the Silverbacks. The Quiet Storm outscored the Silverbacks 54-22 in the 2nd half. Bucktown and Slick Rick collaborated for 17 point, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals to lead the Silverbacks. The Quiet Storm “rained” supreme 77-50. Na mean?

The premiere contest of the day was a battle of the undefeated. Both team Chaos and team Hustle were virgin to the agony of defeat. That is until today. This game lived up to the hype and for the second straight game, team Hustle forced an extended period.

Scoop led team Hustle with 16 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks. Runny Ray took 3 charges and contributed 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block, including a clutch basket with under a minute in regulation to tie the game at 56. Without question, Runny Ray left it all on the court for team Hustle. That’s what’s up!

The suspense was heighted when J-Rock went to the stripe for the front end of a 1 and 1 with 25 seconds to play in regulation. His free throw went half way down then came back out. What should’ve been money in the bank for team Hustle, turned out to be a major withdraw for team Chaos. Ya heard?

Heart-N-Soul scored 12 of his 14points, in the 2nd half, including the decisive 4 points needed in the overtime period, to give team Chaos a 60-56 victory, improving their record to 3-0. Team Hustle falls to 2-1.

Team Chaos was led by 1st team All-World selection, Silk Money. He tallied 23 points (5 treys), 6 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal. Second year baller, Frost, generated 10 points (8 in the 2nd quarter) for team Chaos. The man in the middle, The Carpenter added 5 points, 14 boards, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block to the chaos of their overtime victory. Feel me?

I’ll see you at the table on Wednesday B-ballers, until then, holla if ya hear me.

Nuff Said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Chorus, Day 2

B-ballers,

What it do?

It’s no secret that our annual b-ball tournament is in full effect.  Four games are in the books.  Two teams stand at 2-0.  The other two are scraping for their first thrill of victory in this 2011 season.  The temperature reached the mid 90’s today, but today’s exhilarating finale was 500 degrees and no less.  Word is bond!

Team Chaos (2-0) faced the potential ridden Silverbacks (0-2).  There was a high degree of energy coming from both teams’ benches.  The rookie big man for the Silverbacks, SunChild, accumulated 4 blocks today.  His defensive presence was felt, but the explosive combo of Silk Money (21 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block) and Heart-N-Soul (23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 thefts) proved to be much too much for the Silverbacks.

Heart-N-Soul scored 12 of his game high 23 points in the 2^nd quarter.  The Carpenter (10 rebounds) and J-Dubb (11 rebounds) rules the boards, tipping the rebounding scale in favor of team Chaos, 56-31.  Chaos led at the half 29-21.

The Silverbacks were led by their rookie swingman, Tone.  He tallied 15 points, 5 rebounds and 1 block.  His teammate and former defensive player of the year, Bucktown, stuffed the stat sheet with 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 3 blocks, but the 18 points by team Chaos eventually caged the Silverbacks, taming them with a 66-42 drubbing.  Na mean?

Game 2 featured last season’s M.V.P, The Phenom.  His Quiet Storm squad was confident that their 1^st win of the 2011 season was in today’s forecast, but J-Rock and team Hustle would weather the optimism of team Quiet Storm in epic fashion.

The first half ended with the Quiet Storm leading 33-28, but team Hustle responded with a 16 point third quarter that would keep things interested down the stretch.  The teams were deadlocked at 44 at the end of the third quarter. 

Team Hustle’s top ballers were J-Rock, who finished with 19 points (5/9 from the stripe), 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 1 block.  And, Scoop, a.k.a The Human Eraser, produced a heavy 19 points (5/9 from the stripe), 15 boards and 4 swats.  The man in the middle for team Hustle, Pitt Bull, contributed 8 points (2/3 from the stripe) including 2 clutch free throws in the 4^th quarter.

The Quiet Storm was led by the bench production of 2^nd team All-World selection, E-Smoove.  He finished with 19 points (10 in the 2^nd half), 8 rebounds, 8 feeds, and 1 steal.  The Phenom was held to 5 first half points.  He finished with 14 points, 10 boards, 2 assists and 4 thefts.  It’s the lowest point total for the reigning scoring champ, since his regular season finale in 2009.  He sat out the 2^nd half of that game in which he scored 9 points.  Nasty Nas contributed some thunder to the Quiet Storm’s cause.  He registered 9 points and grabbed 13 boards.  Scrappy had 12 points and 5 rebounds.

Just when it looked like Quiet Storm would get their first victory of the 2011 season, the front door flew off the hinges and the Bigg Dogg leaped off the porch.  He finished the day with 9 points, 11 boards, 4 dimes, 3 steals and 2 blocks.  With his team Hustle trailing 65-64, and 5 seconds remaining in overtime, Bigg Dogg drained a 12 foot jumper, with a hand in his face.  The sound of the buzzer brought the rec yard to it’s feet.  The Quiet Storm would remain winless and team Hustle would close out the 1^st week of the season at 2-0.  Hustle!  Hustle!  Hustle! Hard!

In 2 games this week, Bigg dogg tallied 20 points, 21 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals and 3 blocks.  His game winning shot at the buzzer, sealed the deal for Player of the Week.  Stay off the yard if you can’t handle the Bigg Dogg.  Ya heard?

Stay Up,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Mid-Week Special, Day 1

It’s in the air.  Bron-Bron and D-Wade take game 4 of the NBA Finals and it’s on and poppin’ on the row; feel the heat!

Concrete Soul jumps off with team Chaos vs. Quiet Storm.  Silk Money (15points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block) opened the show with a dazzling inside-out exhibition that immediately put Quiet Storm on its heels.  The new substitution rule-requiring all players to play at least a quarter seemed to handcuff the Quiet Storm with the defending scoring champ, The Phenom (17 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal) and teammate and fellow 1^st Team All-world selection E-Smoove (10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 3steals) both going scoreless in the first half.  However, the Quiet Storm bench outscored Chaos bench 11-6 to keep it close 20-13 at the half.

But the initial onslaught would prove to be too much to overcome.  With Heart-N-Soul (15 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist) doing his thing, Eye-G (11 points 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal) making a solid contribution, the Chubsta (5points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists 1 steal) with a surprisingly quiet yet perfectly complementary performance – and Frost (7 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 1 block) providing dynamic energy at both ends of the court – Team Chaos was a well-oiled machine and won comfortably 59-44.  A great start for Chaos.  For Quiet Storm, not so much, but make no mistake, this team is loaded and will contend for the chip.

Game 2 featured the Silverbacks vs. Team Hustle in an old-fashion slug-fest.  The Bigg Dogg (11 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assist, 1 steal, 1 block) barks and bites in another one of his signature all-around performances.  It was 12-11 at the end of one.  J-Rock (19 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals) goes hard.  Pit Bull (7 points, 3 rebounds) steps up and Team Hustle surges to go up 29-22 at the half.  The 2^nd half is all Bucktown (20 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block) all the time.  But the next highest scorer for the Silverbacks was Sunchild (5 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals) turning in a gritty performance, but there was not enough scoring balance overall for the Silverbacks.

While Team Hustle was solid all around with Scoop (9points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, 5 blocks)  The General (5 points, 1 rebound, 4 assists, 2 steals) and Runny Ray (4 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 blocks) putting in work.  But the Silverbacks gave a game effort and it was a 3-point game, 48-45 with under 2 minutes to play.

Then J-Rock closed it out like Mariano Rivera for the NY Yankees, dropping the hammer and closing the lid down the stretch and turn a close game into a 10-point win, 57-47 “Hustle – Hard.”  And we’re just getting started.  And it’s already hot.  Can you withstand the heat?  Be there Friday.  Out

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2011 by Paul Brown

Final Preseason Rap Session

B-ballers,

What it do?

On the eve of the NBA finals, I can’t help but think of the great championship squads of the past.  In doing so, the point guard position immediately comes to the forefront of my thought:  “Magic” Johnson and the “Showtime” Lakers.  Rajon Rondo and the Celtics “Big 3.” “Zeke” Thomas and the “Bad Boys” from Detroit.  Even the great Haeem “The Dream” had the sharp shooting and shifty ball handling skills of the King from Queens, Kenny “The Jet” Smith.  In my personal opinion, the b-ball universe revolves around the “Point god.” Ya heard?

Speaking of Queens, NY our first regular season rap session is with a spirited baller – who hails from Queens – and is never short of conversation once the call goes in the air.  It’s a pleasure to be in the company of my fellow point guard, “The General.”

MannofStat:  General, what’s going on, Dunn?

General:  Everything’s good, MannofStat. How you?

MannofStat:  Days away from my b-ball fix.  So you know what it is, right?

General:  No doubt.  It’s tournament time.  You get 7:30 like CharlieSheen when the whistles blow.

Both:  (Laughs, then bump fists)

MannofStat:  True indeed, but tournament or no tournament, you’re amped whenever the ball goes in the air.  What do you use as motivation on the court?

General:  My love and knowledge of the game and knowing that I can compete at a high level.

Mannofstat:  Do you look for a particular play when you’re bringing up the rock?

General:  Without question.  The “Pick-n-Roll.” I mean, when its done correctly, it’s a thing of beauty.

MannofStat:  What’s the make-up of a great point guard?

General:  A great point guard knows the strengths and weaknesses of each of his teammates.  He knows how to control the flow of the game.  He recognizes who’s hot and feeds them without a second thought.  He also has to be an extension of the coach on the floor.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s up.  What are your expectations for team Hustle?

General:  I think we’ll win it all.

MannofStat:  Word?

General:  Most definitely.  You heard it here first, MannofStat.  We have a good balance of youth and wisdom.  We’ve got some talent on this squad. Throw in a good coach (Smoke-Digga) , it all smells like a title to me.

MannofStat:  Aight.  I feel your energy, Dunn.  If you could, you’d drop somebody off at that cup, right now, wouldn’t you?

General:  I’m amped MannofStat!  Let me shout out my team Hustle. We got the tools to do it baby!  J-Rock, Scoop and Bigg Dogg.  This is our time!  Ya heard?

MannofStat:  You spoke of the talent around you.  How can you make your teammates better?

General:  I know what each player can and can’t do.  I’ll have to put them in situations where they’ll thrive.  It’s my job to work with them on and off the court. I’ll know they’re sweet-spots so that we can flow as a unit.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s good, Dunn.

General:  Yo, MannofStat.  Good lookin, Dunn.  I mean this format gives me a chance to spit about my love for this game.  Feel me?

MannofStat:  No doubt.  Handle your business General.

Both:  (Bump fists)

Keep it 100,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

The Draft Day Review...For Real

B-ballers,

What it do?

The 2k11 b-ball draft, for death row, has finally come to fruition.  The testosterone reached high levels in the barbershop today.  The hot topics were coaches and players.

This season we’ll go with 4 teams instead of 5.  Team 1 (Quiet Storm) will be coached by Big Bo.  This will be his second stint as a head coach.  His last employment was in 2008.  He coached team “Fast Forward” to a historical championship appearance.  Only to come up short to a Lil’ Magic within a Dark Cloud.  Na mean?

Speaking of “Lil Magic,” he’ll be taking his talents to the sidelines this season.  The injury bug has been a consistent pest for Lil’ Magic this past offseason.  So he’ll take the reins as head coach of team 2 (Chaos) this year.

Coaching team 3 (Hustle) will be the savvy veteran coach, Smoke Digga.  His last championship run was in 2007 with the high powered, Undertakerz.  Team 4 (Silver Backs) will be led by 1^st time head coach, Lil’ Chris.  We’ll see if he can ignite the beast within his “Silver Backs.” Ya heard?

The first 3 picks of this year’s draft came as no surprise.  Big Bo took the “All Everything” of last season’s “Bringing the Heat” tournament, “The Phenom,” with the number 1 pick.  Lil Magic selected “Silk Money” at number 2.  Smoke-Digga initiated an “Undertakerz” reunion when he selected “J-Rock” at number 3.

The surprise pick in this year’s draft was the rookie big man, “SunChild.”  Lil’ Chris chose the rookie’s lingth and rebounding prowess over two former defensive players of the year recipients as well as the always emphatic big man, known as “The Carpenter.”

Lil’ Magic and his team, Chaos have employed the services of “The Carpenter” this season.  There’s no question “The Carpernter” will be tightening his tool belt and marking the dates his team Chaos will face the Silver Backs.  That’s what’s up!

“Concrete Soul” is the title for this season’s b-ball festivities.  Hopefully we’ll play 3 days a week.  If so, the top of the week will be known as the “Bassline” session.  Scripted by yours truly.  Mr. Blue will handle the Mid-Week Special, (The Blue View), and I’ll close out the week with the “Chorus” session.  Aight?

This season may be special for some and it might be a migraine for others, but remember this:  The best teammate is someone who takes responsibility for the energy they bring to a particular space.  Feed on that b-ballers. 

Until next time, I’m out like the 43^rd president.

Stay Up,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

The Draft Day Review that Wasn’t

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming season, we got off to an inauspicious start.  Instead of conducting the player draft this afternoon we were informed the season, dubbed “Concrete Soul” by the MannofStat, has been postponed due to some aggressive above the rim tactics performed on the yard.

The game plan is to get that back-board repaired and finish their intramural tournament, and then begin our league play.  Our start date has been pushed back to a tentative July. 

We were assured by the head of the recreation department and unit manager that they will do all in their power to ensure we get started in a reasonable amount of time.  And we are all committed to making this the best tournament we’ve had to date.  Playing each game as if it were your last takes on a whole new meaning on the row, ya heard?

Everyone was looking forward to the jump off and there is disappointment at the delay.  However, the down-time can be used as an opportunity by some star players to tend to nagging injuries, Lil’ Magic (foot, back, knee), J-Rock (ankle).

The time can also be used to patch-up those rough spots on the court, which is long overdue and for ballers to fine tune their games.

Due to illness, Big-Shot Bo will take his talents to the bench and use his energy and emotional leadership as a coach this year.  In another twist – two time championship coach, Slick Rick will be runnin and gunnin as a player this year.  It promises to be a very entertaining season.  Until then, let the rock continue to pound the pavement like a heartbeat…

Keep it 100,

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2011 by Paul Brown

Concrete Soul: Preseason Rap Session

These events occurred previously in the summer of 2011                             

B-ballers, 

What’s good?

The sign-up sheets have been posted.  It’s official.  The 2011 death row basketball tournament will jump off in May.  Our annual draft will take place next week.  So sign your name on the designated line, if you’ve got the skillz to send the rock through the twine.  Ya heard?

Last season, the masses experienced the high temperatures of “Bringing the Heat.” In 2011, the masses will feel the rhythm of the bounce.  “Concrete Soul” is now upon us.  Feel me?

This will be our final preseason “Rap Session.” Allow me to introduce you to “The Carpenter.” Off the court, we know him as the easy going big man, “Chubb.” But, when the court is dry and the ball goes in the air, this 6’4” 267lb easy going big man, becomes a daunting presence in the paint.  He is by far, the most controversial character of all the ballers on the row.  Real talk.

“The Carpenter” invited me to his workshop to discuss his plans to add to his rebounding legacy – He owns the single game rebounding record (22) – and to elaborate on his passion for this game.  Opponents beware, “The Carpenter” is building his legacy.  Na mean?

MannofStat:  In the last two seasons, you’ve established yourself as the rebounding giant, better known as “The Carpenter,” but give us the history on the name “Chubb.”

Carpenter:  “The Carpenter” is a moniker I earned due to my ability to handle the boards on either end of the court.  As for the history of the name, “Chubb,” it came about when people would hear my mother call me.  My name is actually “Chabby,” but people will hear what they wanna hear.  Over the years, I just let the name “Chubb” stick.

MannofStat:  Talk to me about your passion for the game.

Carpenter:  My goal is to always be productive. To get to the big dance, I have to do better than I did last year.  My guys have to understand that my passion for this game is not meant to be taken as negativity.  I mean, some ballers are more vocal or animated than others.  Because of my extreme desire to win, I am that baller.

MannofStat:  Are you the best big man this league has seen?  If not, who is?

Carpenter:  (Laughs)  Without a doubt!!  I am the best big man in this league.  My stats speak volumes.  Double-double nearly every game.  I average 16 boards a game.  It’s what I do, MannofStat.

MannofStat:  (Laughs) What about the nonbelievers? 

Carpenter:  Well, for those who think otherwise, they’ll need to get with you and your stat crew, because your crew records the truth and nothing but the truth.

MannofStat: (Laughs)

Carpenter:  I’m serious.  You can hate it or love it.  Pass me by in the draft, you’ll hate it.

MannofStat:  I feel you.

Carpenter:  (Changing his voice and looking toward the sky) “Man, I should have picked that dude.” That’s what they always say.  The coach that I play for will love it.  He’ll know that he’s got a passionate baller.  He might hate that I walk to the beat of my own drum, but I’m still a team player.

MannoStat:  Do you think b-ball makes a difference on death row?

Carpenter:  Of course!  It pulls us (the ballers) and even those who don’t play, away from the daily monotony and stress of being here, at least for a little while.  And, I really enjoy the trash talk that comes with it.

MannofStat:  That’s what up.  Thanks for your candidness, “Chabby.” (Laughs)

Carpenter:  (Laughs) It’s all good, MannofStat.

Both:  (Bump fists.)

Keep it 100,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2011 by Leroy Elwood Mann

2011 Concrete Soul: Recap

B-ballers, 

I know its been a minute, but the masses will get the chance to experience the 2011 North Carolina Death Row Basketball Tournament.  "Concrete Soul" took place in the summer of 2011, but due to some unforeseen obstacles, the game couldn't be brought to the masses. 

Now the game can be broadcast to the masses, just in time for the return of the NBA season.  While you await the return of Lebron and Kobe, checkout Concrete Soul with your MannofStat and the North Carolina Death Row ballers.  Let's see if "The Phenom" will have a repeat M.V.P. season.  There will be a new post every day for the next 26 days.  Tell all your family and friends

Now, let's pick up where we left off