Sign of the Twine: Cotton, Day 16

B-ballers,


What’s good? If it isn’t the international workmanship of Carmelo Anthony (37 points, in 14 minutes, against team Nigeria), it’s “The Phenom’s offensive onslaught in today’s championship game. Witnessing one of the greatest individual displays of offensive efficiency this league has ever experienced (18/27 fg. % and 12/16 ft. %), has temporarily satiated my b-ball appetite. Ya heard?

Championship Monday was the perfect ending to another memorable season. Some of the best games of this season have involved team “Sky High.” At 5-10 they had to fight and scratched for every win this year. At times the frustrations of the regular season got the best of them. But the 2k12 postseason exhibited their will to win as the rec yard felt the heartbeat of an underdog.

E-Smoove led team Sky High with a career best, 37 points (23 in the 1st half). He also accumulated 11 boards, 4 dimes and 1 block. He scored 23 of the 49 Sky High 1st half points. His 7/14 shooting from beyond the arc (13/25 overall) led a Sky High frenetic pace that set the tone early in the contest.

The Runnin Rebel scored the first 5 points of the game. Sky High scored the next 10 points. Sky High led 26-23 with 6:56 to play in the 1st half. The Runnin Rebels led 33-28, 1:51 seconds later. Real talk.

After leading 49-44 at the recess team Sky High was outscored 50-37 in the 2nd half. The 94 points scored by team Runnin Rebels ties a postseason record – set by the ultimate team Dynasty, in a 94-61 rout, in a 1st round playoff game back on 4/25/06. That’s what’s up!

Then Phenom most definitely saved his best for last. On this day, he was like the bank vault with no security; unguardable! Ya heard: He poured in an astonishing 52 points (career best and league record), 6 rebounds, 7 dimes and 4 thefts. If there is such a thing – it was a subtle 50 plus effort. Much to the likes of Bernard King; arguably the greatest small forward ever to don a New York Knicks uniform. Check the stats!

Scoop, a.k.a. The Human Eraser, closed out another championship season with 16 points, 11 boards, 4 thefts and 2 blocks. Scrappy was 8/12 from the field and tallied 18 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. The Carpenter contributed 6 points, and 12 boards. And The General finished with 2 points, 3 rebounds, 6 dimes and 2 steals. Congrats to the 2012 Champs, team Runnin’ Rebels (12-2)!! Their 94-86 championship victory was nothing short of impressive. Word is bond!

Congrats are also in order for team Sky High’s ability of overcoming the odds and producing one of the most memorable postseason runs in the history of our league. The King Cobra showed up big for Sky High. He tallied a career best, 27 points (12/19 from the field), and added 8 rebounds, 1 assists and 1 steal, to his breakout postseason numbers. Billy Ho and Runny Ray collaborated for 15 points, 17 rebounds and 6 assists to help keep Sky High on the threshold of forcing a decisive game 2.

Today’s action reminded me of why I love this game. The unconsciousness of The Phenom and the will of E-Smoove reassured me that my mission is a story worth telling. My connection to the desire of the King Cobra and the clutch mentality of Scrappy is what inspired me to become your MannofStat. The Blueprint, a.k.a. Earl J. Richmond lives through us. His brainchild is now our reality. Let’s continue to make it do what it do. Ya heard?

Once again, my stat team proved to be a sensational mix. Mr. Blue, Froggy-Frogg, El-Indio and Pop-a-shot; Sign of the Twine would’ve been just another rec period without you. Lil’ Magic, Diesel and Big Bank cashed in their stats for whistles and referee attire. Job well done fellas??

Father Time and the 2 man cleanup crew of Chino and Skeeter Jackson gives the rec yard that same everlasting connection to The Blueprint, that led me to stamp my kicks, before the 06 championship game with these words:

“4 my man E R.I.P.”

You see it. You know it. Now feel it.

Sign of the Twine: Cotton

All Tournament Squad

Playoff M.V.P.

The Phenom

30 points, 7.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 3 steals (3 games played) FG% 45/86

The Human Eraser

11 points, 11.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 2.2 steals and 3 blocks (3 games played) FG% 14/29

King Cobra

13.1 points, 12.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 2.2 steals and 2 blocks (4 games played) FG% 19/40

E-Smoove

21.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1.2 steals and 1 block (4 games played) FG% 32/70

Heart-N-Soul

23.1 points, 8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 3.1 steals (2 games played) FG% 17/30

Honorable Mentions:

Scrappy, Frost, Silk Money, Billy Ho and The Carpenter

Nuff Said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: The Blue View, Day 15

The Semi-Final: Sky high vs. Regulators. Both teams know what this game means and its evident by a tightly contested 1st half in which every shot was challenged and the tension was thick. Sky High dominated the boards early, led by King Cobra (9 points, 16 rebounds, 1 steal and 4 blocks) whose transcendent energy dominates games no stat sheet will ever reflect. Silk Money (12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal and 1 block) hit back to back treys and the Regulators went on a late 8-2 run, however, the silky one would be held largely in check the rest of the way, Regulators by 5 at the half, 27-22. The leading scorers for both teams happened to be role players making solid contributors. J-Dub of the Regulators (11 points) and Runny Ray of Sky High (7 points).

The Regulators opened the 2nd half by pushing the lead to 10, 33-23 at the 11:40 mark. E-Smoove (19 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals) responds, attacking inside and out. Frost (17 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals), the little giant steps up and halves the lead to 35-30 in 90 seconds. And with Billy Ho (4 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals) crushing the boards. Sky High goes on a 1 1-0 run. The Regulators could not recover and Sky High pounced. They did it with tenacious team D., limiting Silk Money to just 12 points and holding the Bigg Dogg scoreless! Frost, icy from the line down the stretch, and Sky High wins going away 56-44 setting up the final showdowns with the number one seed Runnin’ Rebels.

If you’ll recall, there was a quote from the King Cobra (week 6 Rap Session), after a regular season Sky High loss to the Runnin’ Rebels, “that experience taught us a valuable lesson that will be implemented to make up official contenders for that chip. Retaliation is a must!” Sky High has knocked off the #2 and #3 seeds to get to the final. Both teams are playing the best ball they’ve played all season. It promises to be a wildly entertaining spectacle.

Tempers flared today at the end of the game, which sometimes happens when competitors compete at a high level. Responding to this pressure in a negative way only proves you are incapable of dealing with it, which is really no pressure at all considering the republican-led N.C. legislature is dismantling the Racial Justice Act as we speak, which may in turn cost some of us our lives. This is [GMB], not the sandlot; grow the f__ck up.

This is my final column of the season and it’s been a blast. I admit I began some days in a funk and left the yard exhilarated. Big ups to the ballers, coaches; and to the refs – outstanding job in their first season, you’re all on my team, ya dig? The rec staff. The Rec-Man; we could not have done this without the aid of the “Rose,” word! The Bull Frog, El-Indio and the MannofStat running the point; what a team!

Much love to my friends and family residing in the DMV: Moms, Auntie, Boo, Pam, Tara and my pretty little ones, Makayla and Mariah. And Alice of London, who remind me constantly that life like b-ball is a team sport.

Honors to Earl Richmond “The Blueprint,” gone but not forgotten. We ball under the whistle today on the strength of his integrity, and we hold each other accountable to his high standard.
Mr. Blue,

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Smith

Sign of the Twine: Cotton, Day 14

B-ballers,


What it do? The second session of the 2012 postseason was full of shining moments. Team Runnin’ Rebels (10-2) shot 32/52 from the field and dished out 21 dimes enroute to their second double-digit win of these playoffs, 74-58. They will take a 15-point postseason average – for margin of victory – into Friday’s championship game.

League M.V.P. The Phenom shot 15/23 from the field. He tallied true M.V.P. numbers in the form of 36 points (6/7 from the stripe), 10 boards, 6 dimes, and 3 steals. Team Regulators (5-9) kept it interesting – only trailing by 5 at the half (39-34). But the second half play of Scrappy was just too much to overcome. He scored 12 of his playoff career best, 20 points, in a decisive second half in which the Runnin Rebels put up 35 points. Scrappy finished 8/10 from the field and dished out 4 dimes, while copping 2 steals in the process. He and The Phenom combined for 25 of the Runnin Rebels thirty-five second half points. Now, if that ain’t the cream rising to the top; I don’t know what is. Ya heard?

Other contributors to the Runnin Rebels waltz to this year’s final were: The Human Eraser (8 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 swats), The Carpenter (2 points, 12 boards, 2 assists, 2 steals and 1 blocks), The General (4 rebounds, 5 dimes and 3 thefts), and this year’s Most Improved Player, Flex, scored 4 points (2/3 from the field) and mustered 2 rebounds.

Team Regulators were led by Silk Money (18 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 thefts). The Balnket contributed a solid performance – finishing with 13 points (all in the first half), 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. The Bigg Dogg tallied 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 1 block. The Regulators will face the ever-rising Sky High (4-8) in an elimination game; deciding the final spot in Friday’s championship game. The Chip Chase is on! Na mean?

Speaking of Sky High; they were responsible for the dirty work of eliminating the second seeded Funky Technicians (7-7). Both teams stayed true to the term, “elimination game.” The Sky High chants echoed throughout the rec yard and the sense of urgency was evident in both squads when Runny Ray and Heart-N-Soul each picked up 3 quick personal fouls in the first half of play.

Frost a.k.a. Lil’ Giant saved his best game of the season for today’s elimination round. He poured in a career high 26 points (11/17 from the field). He grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out another career best of 5 dimes. He led Sky High in their highest scoring output of the season (85 points) – including a dominant 46 point second half. Damn!!

As a team, Sky High shot 34/56 from the field. The King Cobra hissed his way to a playoff career high of 14 points (4/6 from the field and 6/9 from the stripe). He also tallied 11 boards, 2 assists, 4 thefts and 3 swats. Monster Ballin, for real! Ya heard?

The primal roar of Sky High’s Billy-Ho was heard throughout this contest and he generated 19 points (9/17 from the field), 3 rebounds, 4 assists (playoff career best), and 3 steals. In 2 postseason games played, Billy Ho is averaging 16.1 points and 4 steals per game, a role player making the most of his opportunities. Feel me.

E-Smoove contributed a modest 14 points (4/4 from the stripe), 12 boards, 3 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks. As one of this team’s leaders, E-Smoove seemed more enthusiastic about the team effort – behind today’s victory – than his individual play: “Everybody came to play today. That’s the best we’ve spread the ball around all year.” True indeed.

The Funky Technicians are the first squad to exit this year’s postseason, but not without valiant efforts from Heart-N-Soul (22 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4steals), Lil’ Bison (16 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist), and Nasty Nas (15 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks).

Until next we meet, I’m out like Glenn Chapman.

Much Love,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Water, Day 13

Welcome to the Playoffs! Who wants the chip? Let’s get it.


Game 1: Sky High v. Runnin’ Rebels. The Rebels are off to the races early and E-Smoove (17 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block) picks up two quick fouls signaling trouble for Sky High. The Phenom moved in for the kill early with 21 of his teams’ 28 first half points, finishing with (32 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks), just another day at the office for the prolific one. But don’t blink – Sky High locks down on D, led by the ferocious efficiency of the King Cobra (3 point, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals, 1 block) cutting the lead to one just before the half with Frost pouring in (12 points) and Billy Ho bringing the noise with (14 points, 5 rebounds, 5 steals).

But Sky High suffered from too many self-inflicted wounds, going 8/18 from the charity stripe and missing a Google of chippies. Fatigue began to set in during the second half where they didn’t get to the line once and were out-rebounded as a team 59-34. And that simply will not get it done – not in this post-season. Scoop (9points, 15 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals, 3 blocks) and the Carpenter (2 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal) shut down the paint. Scrappy (9 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 steals) and the General (6 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, 1 block) made solid contributions. And Hilltop is the perfect complement off the bench with (4 points, 4 rebounds), and old-school fundamentals. When the Rebels run, nobody does it better. They sent a message today with a 62-48 win.

Game 2 pitted the Regulators against the Funky Technicians. Coach-C was absent from the bench for the Regulators with the Gem filling in as assistant coach. I’m not sure what the plan was, but it was executed to near perfection. 4-0-9 didn’t get the start, and that’s about the only thing he didn’t get in a superb performance. The Funky T’s sprinted out to an early 8-2 advantage. Enter 4-0-9 (15 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 blocks), the rebounding champ who also runs the floor. The Regulators quickly claimed the lead; they would not trail again. 4-0-9 controlled the pace of the game on both ends and had easily, the play of the day with a spin-move in the post, receiving the inbounds pass from the Blanket, over the shoulder ala Hall of Famer, Jerry Rice and finishing – in the colorful words of CBS Sports’ Bill Raftery “with a little smooch” electrifying the yard.

The Regulators led by as many as 19 points. The Funky Technicians would make on last run led by Heart-N-Soul (25 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals) and the Regulators made him work for everything he got. Then the Regulators went to their closer – in the form of Silk Money (20 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals, 1 block). When he wasn’t finishing at the rim, he was from the stripe to close the show – 59- 54. With the Bigg Dogg (6 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists) providing the poise and veteran leadership – the Regulators are in a good place. This is the playoffs! It’s physical, it’s dirty; it’s nasty. And if you’re waiting on the officials to bail you out with the nickel-dimes, you’d be better off going upstairs and playing checkers.

Mr. Blue
Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Sign of the Twine: Mid-Week Special, Day 12

B-ballers,


What’s good? The will to win is nothing without the will to prepare. The first place Runnin Rebels (9-2) closed out their regular season with a 59-43 dismantling of fourth placed Sky High (3-8). Team Runnin Rebels won 7 of their first 9 games, and will take a two game winning streak into this year’s postseason. They’ll be chasing the chip as the number one seed.

On this final day of the regular season, several performance stood out: Heart-N-Soul (26 points, 7 rebounds, 5 feeds and 4 thefts), The Phenom (22 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals), Lil’ Bison (17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists). But it was the postseason form of Bucktown that brought the rec yard to its feet.

Today’s 67-59 Funky Technicians (7-5) victory, over team Regulators (4-8), was a testament to what Bucktown is capable of when he’s not in foul trouble. The Brooklynite has tallied 37 points, 20 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals and 4 blocks in the final two games of this regular season, concluding his regular season as the undisputed Player of the Week. That’s what’s up!

As for this upcoming postseason: If you ain’t coming to win, you gets no glory from this pen! Let the playoffs begin!!

Regular Season Wrap Up

Regular Season M.V.P. / Scoring Champ
The Phenom
28.4 points (312 total), 10 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.1 steals.
 7 double/doubles in 11 games played


Assist Leader
The General
4.3 assists (47 total) in 11 games played


Chairman of the Boards
B-Dot, a.k.a. 4-0-9
13.9 rebounds (167 total) in 12 games played


Top Shot Blocker
Scoop, a.k.a The Human Eraser
2.9 blocks (31 total) in 11 games played


Defensive Player of the Year
Heart-N-Soul
*4.4 steals (52 total) in 12 games played


Top 6th Man
Lil’ Bison
6.4 points (17 season high) and 1.2 rebounds in 7 games played.


Most Improved Player
Flex
Intangible contributions in 11 games played
Aggressive defense, unending sportsmanship and never afraid to pull the 12ft. baseline jumper


Hackman Award Recipient
Bucktown
points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.6 steals, 1.2 assists, 1.3 blocks and 43 fouls (3 DQ’s) in 12 games played


*League Leading Stat


That’s that with that! I’ll see you at the table.

Stay Up,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Cotton, Day 11

We’re officially into the dog days of Sumer. Time to fine tune and make the proper adjustments for a championship run. Game 1 saw the Funky Technicians take on Sky High and we’re already seeing playoff style heat. Sky High’s fast break is clicking early fuelded by swarming team defence and E-Smoove (13 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 3 blocks) shooting 50% from the field and being aggressive at both ends. Runny Ray would not let that energy wane, contributing a solid double-double (11 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 3 blocks).


But the Funky Technicians came to play, led by Bucktown’s (19 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks). However, an off day from Heart-N-Soul (12 points, 5 steals) and Tone Loc (4 points) not starting due to an aggravating thigh injury; and ineffective when he did play – The Funky T’s could not match Sky High’s intensity. Billy Ho ran the point (11 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals) and the King Cobra brought it baseline to baseline with 7 points, a career high 22 Grown Man Boards, 2 steals and 1 block. Sky High…Sky Hihg, Final: 51-46.

Game 2 saw the first place Runnin Rebels go up against team Regulators. The Phenom coming off of a sub-par performance would not have any of it today, exploding out to an early 9-0 lead and scoring 16 points in the first 9 minutes on his way to (31 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals) Scrappy stepped up, playing with assertiveness and a sense of urgency (14 points, 3 rebounds) and the Carpenter, he does what he do (12 points, 13 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals).

The Regulators held their own though. Silk Money is rounding into playoff form, and just in time, stuffing the stat-sheet (18 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 6 steals). Geezy contributed (13 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals). The Bigg Dogg and 4-0-9 combined for (19 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 1 block), but it was all rebels with Big Hen “The Hammer” closing the show with two free throws, final: 67-56.

Happy birthday to the Phenom. According to the stat-sheet every day is his birthday and the assist of the day goes to Chino, holding the table down while the MannofStat had an eye exam. Now, that’s teamwork.

Mr. Blue
Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Sign of the Twine: Midweek Special, Day 10

Game Time! 


Game 1, Team Regulators vs Runnin Rebels

With the Regulators (4-6) giving the Runnin Rebels (7-2) their second loss of the season, team Regulators seems to have arrived. As the underdog no one expected them to win, but they did – all because they played team ball. With Bigg Dogg taking the leadership, Silk Money 13 points (5/14 from the field), 8 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block. The Blanket 12 points (4/9 from the field), 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals. Bigg Dogg 10 points (shooting 5/11), 5 rebounds, and 1 steal. Jezzy, J-Dubb and 4-0-9 totaled 16 points. Runnin Rebels leading scorer, The Phenom faced double teams throughout the game. With The Phenom handcuffed, Scrappy and Scoop had free range to shoot at will. Can anybody say: “The Wild, Wild, West?”

The team shot themselves right out of a win by shooting 18/60 as a team. Regulators totally outplayed the first place Runnin Rebels to a 50-39 victory. The Phenom was held to a lowly 10 points (shooting 4/21 from the field). He finished with 13 boards, 3 assists, and 1 steal. Scrappy was 6/15 from the field (13 points), 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block. The Carpenter, Scoop, The General, Hill-Top, Nate and Wayn’s World combined for a total of 16 points. Runnin Rebels are still on pace to clinch the regular season championship.

Today’s second match team Sky High vs Funky Technicians

Point guard, Heart-N-Soul, blazed team Sky High with 22 points in the first half. Not trying to be outplayed by the Funky Technicians, Sky High’s Lil’ Giant, Frost tallied 18 of his team’s 36 first half points. The two point guards was on fire! With these two teams plagued by fouls (Pit Bull and Nasty Nas foul out) Sky High made a comeback 64-61 with 2:41 left on the clock. The Sky High comeback came to an end once Frost fouled out and then E-Smoove. Heart-N-Soul put his team on his back and carried the Funky Technicians to a win. Heart-N-Soul was 13/18 from the field (30 points), 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 steals and 2 blocks. For a small man, that’s big boy numbers.

Helping him with the win, Bucktown 5/13 (12 points), 7 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal. Tone “Wild Thing” Loc 11 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Pit Bull 9 points, 8 rebounds, and 1 assist. Pablo, Jimi Jam and Nasty Nas combined for 12 points. Team Sky High played with a lot of energy. Its an unfortunate loss for a team with so much potential. Their two star players, E-Smoove and Frost fouled out with under a minute to play, leaving Billy Ho to carry the team. His 10 points in the second half was not enough to pull through. Funky Technicians win 74-68.

Sky High stats: Frost 10/21 from the field (25 points), 2 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal. E-Smoove (20 points) 7/18 from the field, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal. Billy Ho 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals. King Cobra 5 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Ali 4 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals.

Co-Players of the Week

E-Smoove and Heart-N-Soul. They both led their teams to 1-1 records this week. In two games, Heart-N-Soul tallied 53 points, 9 rebounds, 5 dimes, 7 thefts and 2 blocks. E-Smoove produced 42 points, 11 rebounds, 6 dimes, 2 steals and 3 blocks.

Until next time, everybody knows the game don’t stop tryna make it to the top before your team get dropped yeah. I’m out.

Callin the shots

Jamil a.k.a. Pop-A-Shot

Sign of the Twine: Cotton, Day 9

B-ballers,


Oh yes!! I’m back at the table, and everything is good. Na mean? Tell me this: How many NBA officials would be willing to lace up his/her kicks to take a charge against “King James?” Exactly; I can’t think of any either. That’s why death row b-ball is the hottest ticket in the N.C. department of corrections. Our 3 league officials have been taking the court and playing in the highly intense, second floor scrimmage sessions. That’s right! The Diesel, Big Bank and yes; Lil’ Magic, have been turning up the heat – adding flames to an already scorching summer. Word id bond!

Today’s opening matchup between team Sky High (2-6) and team Regulators (3-6) required double overtimes to decide their 4th and final meeting of the regular season. Without question; this was the best game of the season. Real talk.

The hype of team Sky High was contagious. The late season stretch is undoubtedly forcing the cream to rise to the top. E-Smoove led Sky High with a career best, 32 points (13/28 from the field). He also accumulated 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 blocks (season high). This breakout performances was highlighted by his scoring 10 of the 15 Sky High overtime points. GMB (Grown Man Basketball). Ya heard?

Silk Money tallied a career best 16 boards, to pace the Regulators rebounding dominance (50-23). He also scored 19 points (8/9 from the stripe) – giving him his 1st double/double of the season. In the waning seconds of regulation, Silk Money answered a game tying King Cobra put back basket, with a clutch basket of his own. Giving his team Regulators a hopeful 38-36 lead. But, I gotta ask: “Who’s checking the white cat?”

After missing all 6 of his much needed free throw attempts, Billy Ho remained on his grind and made his lone 2 points count for one of the game’s biggest moments. With the buzzer on the horizon, Billy Ho sent the game into it’s first overtime with a layup, followed by a gladiator’s roar. GMB.

E-Smoove handled the overtime periods like carry-on luggage; Easy like Sunday morning. Ya heard? In this “instant classic,” Silk Money appeared to have sealed the deal in the first overtime, with a pull-up trey – leaving two ticks on the game clock. Unaware of the clock stopping after made baskets with 60 seconds or less to play, coach T.C. stormed the court, in an effort to congratulate his star player for nailing the game’s alleged winning basket. I can’t front, b-ballers, I got caught up in the hype as well. I was giving Silk Money a pound at the table while coach T.C. was lifting him off the court.

The rec yard euphoria was heightened when Frost followed the alleged Silk Money game winner with a trey that beat the buzzer. But the basket was waved off due to the coach leaving the bench prior to the buzzer. E-Smoove tied the game at 44, nailing the two technical free throws. Frost contributed 12 points (including 5 point in the overtime sessions), 2 rebounds and 2 steals. With a bleeding left elbow and a bloody right palm, King Cobra donated 10 boards to a 53-44 statement victory, for team Sky High.

The 7-1 Runnin Rebels are in the driver’s seat, going into the home stretch of the regular season. After today’s 72-61 victory over the Funky Technicians (5-4), The General gave a late season prediction: “To all comers! The Runnin Rebels won’t be stopped! This year, the title belongs to us!” Coming from a point guard that was dishing out masterpieces (5 dimes) in today’s contest, I’d have to say he has a valid point. No pun intended.

With The Phenom stuck on the bench in the second half, with 4 fouls, the Runnin Rebels outsourced the Funky Technicians 43-35 in the second half. Scrappy scored 12 of his season high, 21 points in the second half. Scoop generated 11 points, 12 boards, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 4 swats. The Carpenter (14 points, 14 boards, 5 dimes and 2 steals) went into a dehydrated shock after today’s win. He left the unit in a wheelchair; received an I.V. in the emergency room; then returned in time to walk to chow with the rest of the row. Damn! I love death row b-ball. That’s what’s up!!

Stay up,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Rap Session, Week 6

KING – One that is supreme or preeminent in a particular group, category or sphere.
                                          -American Heritage College Dictionary

B-ballers,

What’s good? Every baller has a unique trait that highlights their contributions on the court. In the habitat of the death row baller, “The General” is most notable for his vocal leadership. “The Carpenter” views rebounding as his craftsmanship. And, “The Phenom” possesses the extraordinary offensive skill set that commonly leaves defenders and spectators stunned in his wake. Feel me?

Now, make way for a new distinguished breed of death row baller. The “King Cobra” has been nothing short of exceptional; when speaking of his presence on the court. This particular species defends the paint as if every possession is the last stand. Following a blocked shot or an I put-back, the King Cobra will hiss as a reminder to opponents that his serpentine style of play is what keeps his species near the top of the b-ball food chain. King Kong ain’t got nothing on him. Ssssssss!

MannofStat: K.C., what it do?

King Cobra: What’s good wit chu, MannofStat?

Both: (Hiss while bumping fists)

King Cobra: Let me start this session by giving credit to the other teams for playing in a way that got them victories over team Sky High. I offer no excuse for being 1-6. However, Sky High has only played one game with every player on our roster present. And that particular loss isn’t as disappointing as it is rewarding.

MannofStat: You’re speaking of your most recent loss to the Runnin Rebels, right?

King Cobra: Yeah. I mean, that experience taught us a valuable lesson that will be implemented to make us official contenders for that chip. Retaliation is a must!

MannofStat: This is only your second year playing under the whistle. How has your understanding of the game improved throughout that span?

King Cobra: Understanding is the best thing in the world and experience is the best teacher. Ya dig?

MannofStat: No doubt.

King Cobra: Fundamentally speaking; the game don’t change. My understanding of this game is expanding rapidly. On the court, or off; every new person entering “the Game,” needs an “O.G.” to pass them the proper knowledge and wisdom so they can eventually become a seasoned playah. So, I gotta give thanks to you, MannofStat, for giving me advice and educating me on the rules and regulations of b-ball.

MannofStat: That’s what’s up.

King Cobra: I also gotta thank my big Homie, Mac (Father Time), the purest shooter on death row. He drilled me with the basics and pointed out all the things that’s enhancing my b-ball I.Q. The verbal lessons and mental understanding are much appreciated. And I can’t forget my recreation group; my peers in the tournament; and my workout partners. The on court experience is making me better and the iron has gotten me stronger in the paint.

MannofStat: In closing, what else is on the King Cobra’s mind?

King Cobra: Let me pay homage to my homeboy, “The Blueprint.” “Aann Ant” (A Fayetteville Street Call), your memory is alive and well. Big ups to your stat crew (Mr. Blue, El Indio, Froggy Frogg and Pop-A-Shot) for doing the math. What up, “Big Bank, Diesel and Lil Magic: Good Look on officiating the games and letting us play. Thanks for the interview, Big Bruh. Peace and blessings to everybody.

MannofStat: That’s what’s good.

Both: Ssssssss!

One Love,


MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Cotton, Day 8

B-ballers, 


What’s poppin? It’s been 9 grueling days since our last session. The heat is high and the ballers have grown thirsty since that last “Water” session. The pent up energy was evident at yesterday’s scrimmage; involving “The Wild Thing,” a.k.a. Tone Loc, Lil’ Bison, 4-0-9 and King Cobra. Let me just say: triple digit temperatures don’t stop these cats from going H.A.M. Whew!! This upcoming two week lay-off is going to be crucial. Ya heard?

King Cobra returned to the pit, after a four game absence; all resulting in losses for team “Sky High.” Today would be no different. The dominant performance of the King Cobra (10 points, 16 boards, 2 assist, 3 steals and 2 blocks) wasn’t enough to overcome the grit of the 1st place “Runnin Rebels” (6-1).

The Phenom led all scorers with 35 points (14/23 from the field and 4/4 from the stripe), his 5th consecutive 30 plus point performance, in 7 games of play, this season. His teammate, The Human Eraser tallied 13 boards, and a season high, 7 blocks. His highest swat total since he accumulated 8, back in the 2k10 season of “Bringing the Heat.” That’s what’s up! The Carpenter appears to be back in his workshop (8 points, 19 boards, 3 assist and 1 block), as Scrappy contributed 12 points, 2 rebounds and 2 steals to the 61-50 Runnin Rebels victory.

Runny Ray finished with 6 points and 12 boards (season high). Frost tallied 21 points, 2 assist and 2 steals. The little giant generated tons of energy in the open court, but had a dismal day shooting the ball (8/31 from the field). The telling stat was E-Smoove going scoreless in the 2nd half. SMH

This is the first time this season; team Sky High has had a complete roster. They’re much better than their 1-6 record. With 5 games left in their regular season, I expect them to get stronger as we near the postseason. Word is bond!

The second half of today’s Cotton session started with the unfinished business of Day 5’s Water session. The last meeting between the Funky Technicians (5-3) and team Regulators (3-5) was halted with 5:50 left in regulation – due to rain. Team Regulators held a 50-35 advantage when the game was called. All they had to do today, was finish the remaining 5:50 the way they played the first 26:50 on 6/18/12; heartless! But that proved to be too tall of an order for the Regulators.

The Regulators held the ball – expecting a win – rather than attacking the basket and owning the W. Heart-N-Soul, a.k.a. The Prince of Thieves, made them pay dearly. He scored the first 7 points of a 16-2 run. He led team Funky Technicians with 31 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 7 thefts (season high). His play inspired a gutsy effort from Bucktown, who’s currently suffering from some damaged ligaments in his left knee.

Bucktown scored some clutch baskets in the midst of that inexplicable 16-2 Funky Technicians run – including the go ahead basket after a theft by Slick Rick. Bucktown finished with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 1 leg). Real talk.

In dramatic fashion, Heart-N-Soul received the inbound pass, just inside of half court, with 6.3 seconds to play and the score knotted at 55. Wearing the defender like a state issued white T, he drove baseline, right to drop in the 22nd point of a 22-5 Funky Technicians close out run, elevating his team to sole possession of second place with a stunning 57-55 victory. The early season popular opinion was this team would have a winless season. At 5-3, I’d say they’re in contention for the chip. Ya heard?

Today’s scheduled meeting between these two teams immediately followed the 5:50 miracle. The Funky Technicians won this game decisively 61-48. The Wild Thing; Tone Loc has been playing out of his mind. He led this Funky Technicians 13 point rout, with 25 points and 6 rebounds. Slick Rick contributed 8 points (All in the first half). And Bucktown held his own with 6 points, 12 boards, 4 assists, 2 steals and 1 block, again; on 1 leg. Na mean?

4-0-9 (20 points, 14 boards and 1 block) and Bigg Dogg (15 points, 11 boards, 2 assists, 3 steals and 1 block) led the ever-so-frustrated team Regulators.

I’ll see you at the table on 7/16/12.

Be Easy,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Talking Game with the Hilltop, Week 5

“I got my introduction to b-ball on the schoolyards, playgrounds and P.A.L. Centers in Philly.”
                       -Hilltop

B-ballers,

What it do? The summer of 2K12 is barely a week old and the temperatures have already reached triple digits. SMH. The disappointment of having one game day within a 3 week span is worse than battling this sweltering heat. Na mean?

To beat the heat, I decided to dig up some b-ball roots with my man Hilltop. This old school West Philly baller can relate to my b-ball origin and has the game time experience to make the players around him better. Real talk.

The legends from my hood lived on the schoolyard courts. I learned how to play the game by watching cats like: Soup Bone, Silk, Sarge and Munchie. I’d watch them play all day – occasionally sneaking in a layup or a short jumpshot at the opposite end of the court. To me, they were the cream of the crop. So, you can imagine my enthusiasm when I was finally considered good enough to compete with and against North Philly’s best. Getting my shot thrown over the fence by Sarge or assisting Soup Bone with a behind the back pass, was my rite of passage as a baller. Ya heard?

I learned so much about the game from those old school ballers. When I asked Hilltop about his role on the currently first place Runnin Rebels, he didn’t hesitate to take the wheel and drive me to familiar territory.

My role with this team (Runnin Rebels) is to perform blue collar labor as an elder statesman. To maintain momentum – allowing the ‘young guns’ to set the court ablaze. Ya dig? The enthusiasm of this Lansdowns Avenue product breeds new meaning to the death row b-ball movement. Hilltop understands that our league is a statement of progression: “This league shows that outcasts of society can interact within an organized atmosphere and partake in the competition with respect and sportsmanship.”

Hilltop and I were bred from the same launching pad. We could talk for hours about Earl “The Pearl,” Wilt “The Stilt,” West Philly’s High’s “Speed Boys,” Hank Gathers, “Bo” Kimble, Dr. J, and Rasheed Wallace. I mean our b-ball discussions could go back further than George Jefferson’s hairline. Feel me?

We spoke on the Sonny Hill Future League summer sessions – as well as the black top battles on 41st and Aspen, throughout the 80’s. He took pride in telling me that he learned the fundamentals of b-ball playing in the military and postal service’s intramural leagues. I even gave Hilltop a play-by-play of my late game heroics in the championship games at Neuman Basketball Camp for Boys. Hitting the game winner against future Drexel University Hall of Famer, John Rankin, allowed me to bring home the hardware and a b-ball swagger that continues to drive your MannofStat, to this day. Ya heard?

“You know what, MannofStat? There isn’t a best b-ball era, per se, in the 2-1-5, because Philly continues to produce a neverending legacy of quality Baller.” And there you have it. Our knees may grow gimpy, but the old school will continue to teach. Word to “The Blueprint.” R.I.P. Earl J. Richmond (D.O.E., 5/6/05).

Keepin it 100,

MannofStat, NP 4 Life
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Rap Session, Week 4

B-ballers,

What’s good? Five games in the year’s NBA Finals, is all it took for Lebron James and his Miami Heat to establish their position at the top of the basketball food chain. A 30-point playoff average and multiple postseason triple/doubles will grace the headlines as “King James” leads the victory parade down Biscayne Blvd. But, his greatness will forever be predicated on his gutsy supporting cast. Feel me?

Mario Chalmers, Mike Miller and Shane Battier were very instrumental in the rise of “The King.” Without them; “King James” would be swimming in the overflowing cup of great ballplayers. With them; he becomes an elite baller, with World Champion Hall of Fame status. Ya heard?

It’s not often role players get to shine, but when the rare opportunity presents itself, the role players have to come from behind the curtain and bring the show to the people. I mean, “Air” Jordan, Hakeem “The Dream” and Kobe “Bean” were spotlight ballers, no doubt. But, when that rare opportunity presented itself; Steve Kerr, Sam Cassell and Derek Fisher gave the show of a lifetime and walked away with the jewelry. Na mean?

Meet Billy Ho, a baller who embraces his role behind the curtain, but is more than eager to bring the show to the people. Please hold your applause until the conclusion of this Rap Session.

MannofStat: Billy Ho, How you?

Billy Ho: I’m good, MannofStat

MannofStat: It’s been a minute since our last sit down, but this is my first exclusive interview with you.

Billy Ho: Yeah, we were “Bringing the Heat” the last time I got to do a Rap Session, so this is what’s good.

MannofStat: Let me see, “Bringing the Heat” was 2K10. You were wreaking havoc with team Gatlins. From then and now, this appears to be your breakout season. Team Sky High has a promising roster, but in the absence of “King Cobra,” what are you bringing to the table?

Billy Ho: Losing King Cobra was a major blow and you can kind of tell from our play in the last few games. He’s an intense dude, and we need that. My job is to bring the intensity every game; during his absence and when he returns. Hopefully, my intensity will be contagious.

MannofStat: It’s no secret that every baller has their strengths, but you should constantly be adding something more to your game. What have you added to your game since last season?

Billy Ho: Well, I’ve tried to work on my defense and communication. Those are the two things that win ball games. If you can’t talk to your teammates, then you’re not going to be able to stop anybody from scoring. You can’t win like that and I’m trying to rise to the top.

MannofStat: Sky High…Sky High (imitating the Goodie Mobb classic, “Black Ice”).

Both: (Laughs and bump fists).

Billy Ho: That’s what’s up!

MannofStat: Last question. Who’s your favorite baller – NBA or college – and why?

Billy Ho: Lebron James, hands down. He dominates both ends of the floor. I wanna be that type of player MannofStat.

MannofStat: Aight

Billy Ho: Yo MannofStat. Before we bounce, I wanna shout out the officiating crew: Lil’ Magic, Big Bank and The Diesel. Every call can’t be the perfect call, but your communication is the best call. I applaud our officiating crew for doing their best.

MannofStat: Word is bond!

One,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: (Water), Day 7

Blistering hot is a perfect description for the weather, but death row B-ball rolls on. Cantankerous is a perfect description of the vibe emanating from some of the balers. Yes, attitudes were funky today, and speaking of funky – The Funky Technicians rolled 68-55 over Sky High, paced by Tone “The Wild Thing” Loc. 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists.


Young Frost scored Sky High’s first 8 points on his way to a respectable 20 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals. E-Smoove had a solid 20 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Lil’ Chris contributed 7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals, but Sky High was outplayed in every facet of the game. They were outrebounded 54-25. Complete and utter domination of the boards by Nasty Nas 15 points, 16 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks.

Playing with back pain, Heart-N-Soul 10 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 6 steals continues to amaze. On one leg, Bucktown contributed 8 points, 13 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks. Jimmy Jam came off the bench and poured in 8 points. How do the Funky Technicians do it? Communication and teamwork; it’s a beautiful thing.

The Runnin Rebels and the Regulators squared off in the second game. The Regulators controlled the action early, led by Silk Money’s 19 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, 3 assists, 1 block and the Bigg Dogg’s 9 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals. Geezy, 409, Streetz and J-Dub combined for (21 points, 17 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 block). They were up 26-18 midway through the first half in an intense battle the Rebels took the lead just before the half 27-26 on a free-throw by the Phenom 31 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and 1 block; they would not trail again.

The led 35-28 at the break and cruised to a 62-50 victory. Scoop got his grown man on with 16 points, 15 rebounds and 1 block. Scrappy (9 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal). The General (4 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 block) and the Carpenter (2 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists) all were solid in the win.

Player of the Week goes to… Tone “The Wild Thing” Loc, leading his Funky Technicians to an undefeated week. His game is not flashy. He is all business. All he does is get the job done, ya dig? Was that water in those cups? Or was it the funky cold medina?

And congrats to Lebron James and the Miami Heat on a job well done. All the naysayers, all the negativity, all of the hate and the whole time all he had to do was just simply be himself. For those who don’t know; that’s always good enough.

It’s about damn time! Hats off to the Heat. And, oh yeah, I’m predicting it’ll be hot out there Monday as well; man-up or melt down.

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Sign of the Twine: Rap Session, Week 3

B-ballers, 

What it do?

“The Round Mound of Rebound,” “The Worm,” “Motown,” and “The Ring Leader” were all driven by their desire to snatch rebounds. Now, don’t get it twisted; Charles Barkley, Dennis Rodman, Moses Malone, and Bill Russell brought other dimensions to the game of basketball. But, they all shared an understanding of the game that separates the good from the elite; “Rebounding wins games.”

The death row b-ball league has bred some rebounding hall of famers as well. The Carpenter has owned the rebounding title for the last two seasons. And, at 5’9” (and some change), “Lil’ Magic dominated the boards before him.

In five games, of this 2012 season, the latest addition to our b-ball fam has more than earned his place in the paint. At 6’4 ½ and 193 pounds, this rookie has produced nothing less than a double/double in all five games. Today’s output of 18 points and 20 boards helped team Regulators ascend to sole possession of 2nd place and one game above 500. B-Dot, a.k.a. 4-0-9; the glass cleaner, is about to give you a much cleaner view of how to live in the paint. Ya heard?

MannofStat: 4-0-9, what it do?

4-0-9: Everything is good, MannofStat.

MannofStat: You’ve been doing your thing in the paint. What are some of the strength and weaknesses of your game?

4-0-9: My greatest strength is that I’m underestimated. (Laughs). But, seriously, the paint is my strong point. My height and arm length allow me to take up a lot of space down there. The only weakness I could possibly point out is most of the other big men outweigh me. But mentally (taps his temple with his index finger), I’m stronger. You don’t have to look for the “Big Man,” cause I live in the paint. Ya Dig?

MannofStat: (Nods head) No doubt.

4-0-9: Playing ball on the row has been an experience because you don’t really know what to expect. But it’s all good at this level.

MannofStat: You just set a new league record for rebounds (26). Is this as good as it gets, or can we expect your numbers to increase?

4-0-9: I don’t really know, MannofStat. I still feel like I have more to give. It’ll come down to my determination and the team’s energy.

MannofStat: Your determination and the team’s energy should be one and the same. Na mean. Your rebounds start the transition. The transition leads to easy baskets. Easy baskets raise the level of confidence. And when a team is full of confidence, a mass of energy is always in the midst. Feel me?

4-0-9: Yeah, I can dig it. We need to develop into a team where we can rely on each other. The energy, excitement and wins will come.

MannofStat: That’s real talk. Keep on keepin, Dunn.

4-0-9: Good look, MannofStat.

Both: (Bumps fists)

Much Love,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Mid-Week Special, Day 5

Once again, this is your man, Jamal, a.k.a. “Pop-A-shot,” calling the shots and coming at you with that old school flow:


“Summer…summer…summertime!”

It’s the first day of summer and the rec yard is 500 degrees. Keeping the math, while battling the heat is more challenging than the Oklahoma City Thunder trying to steal a win in Miami; you just can’t beat the Heat. Feel me? I’ve got MannofStat, Mr. Blue, Wahoo, a.k.a. El-Indio and Froggy Frogg on the mathematical front line with me, so it’s all good. Our officiating crew: Big Bank, The Diesel, Lil’ Magic and Mr. Smith have been doing an excellent job of keeping the temperature on the court, below the natural boiling point.

First up, we have team Funky Technicians vs team Runnin’ Rebels. This game was tied at 24 late in the first half, but the Runnin Rebels possessed a 27-24 lead at the break. Tone Loc, a.k.a. “Wild Thing,” paced the Funky Technicians with 25 points (career best) and 2 steals. With the game tied at 64, Nasty Nas put the Funky Technicians on his back and carried them to the upset victory, 68-64.

– Funky Technicians –
Heart-N-Soul (9 points), 4/11 from the field, 6 boards, 3 assists, 5 steals, 1 block. Nasty Nas (10 points) 14 boards. Tone “Wild Thing” Loc (25 points), 2 steals. Bucktown (11 points), 6 boards, 2 assists, 1 steal. Pitbull, Jimi Jam, Eddie B and Slick Rick combine for 13 points.

- Runnin Rebels –
Phenom (32 points), 11 boards, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block. Sccop (12 points), 11 boards, 2 blocks. Scrappy, 16 points. The General and Hill-Top combine for a total of 4 points.

As the second game got underway, team Sky High vs Regulators. Regulators jumping out to a smooth start, led by Bigg Dogg, Silk Money and B-Dot, a.k.a. 4-0-9, with Sky High playing lackadaisically, they couldn’t match the energy level of team Regulators – with the exception of their big man, Runny Ray. With Runny Ray talking smack to his team, down by 13, Sky High went on a run to close within nine. Regulators led at the half, 28-19. Half time leading scorers were Silk Money (5 points), Bigg Dogg (6 points), 4-0-9 (6 points), Streetz (5 points), E-Smoove (7 points), Frost (6 points).

Second half, Regulators pull away 42-30, 8:37 on the clock. Sky High’s Runny Ray hits a big trey to put some life into his team. With 6:26 on the clock, the score 47-41, Sky High makes another run with Frost running the show. Frost’s pullup jumper; nothing but net. Score 47-45 Regulators. Despite a second half surge by team Sky High, it just wasn’t enough to pull through. Regulators win by one 59-58.

Silk Money (9 points), 10 boards, 3 assists, 3 steals and 4 blocks. Bigg Dogg (16 points), 4 boards, 4 assists, 1 steal and 1 block. B-Dot a.k.a. 4-0-9 (18 points) 20 boards, 1 assist, 3 steals. Geezy, J-Dubb and Streetz combine for a total (16 points). Regulator team totals: (44 boards) – (14 assists) – (4 steals), (4 blocks). Sky High E-Smoove (20 points) is boards, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 block. Frost (13 points), 3 assists, 4 steals. Runny Ray (12 points), 8 boards, 2 assists, 1 block. Billy-Ho, Ali and Lil’ Man combine for a total of 13 points. Sky High team total: 42 boards, 7 assists, 9 steals and 2 blocks.

In closing I leave you with these words:

A lot of us sometime choose the wrong paths in life, which allow us to lose focus on what’s important. We become blinded by the material outlook of certain things that creates an image that’s right when we know it’s wrong. In the process those bad decisions become detrimental to life progression. At times it seems as if we’ve gotten away or beaten the odds but usually what’s done in the dark eventually comes to the light.

The moral of the story revolves around making the right decisions and choices in life. Sometime we may have to go through certain adversities a degree of hardship, grief or setbacks to obtain the basic necessities we seek to live a prosperous, spiritual and happy life. So to the readers and fans, take advantage of what life has to offer and appreciate what life has given.

Calling the Shots,

Jamil, a.k.a. Pop-A-Shot

Sign of the Twine: (Water), Day 4

B-ballers,

What it do?

Game 2 of the NBA Finals must’ve left Kevin Durant, a.k.a. The Durantula in a heap of frustration. He squandered a golden opportunity to take a commanding 2-0 lead, by missing a 10 foot jumpshot in the waning seconds of the game. A shot that would normally be equivalent to a layup, for The Durantula. Na mean?

Frustration flows through each and every one of us. You can’t escape it, but you can definitely suppress it. Every time I pick up this pen, each thought is inspired by the fact that this could very well be my final entry. Because of that; frustration will not deter me from hitting ‘the big shot.’ Ya heard?

The Phenom led all scorers today (what else is new, right?) with 33 points. He was 11/21 from the field and 10/15 from the stripe. Leading the 4-0 Runnin Rebels to a decisive 71-55 victory over the 2-2 Regulators. The Human Eraser contributed 15 points, 17 boards and a season high, 5 swats; generating his 1st double/double of the 2012 season. The Carpenter donated 7 points and 14 boards to the win.

Geezy led the Regulators with 17 points and 7 rebounds. B-Dot; the glass cleaner, a.k.a. 4-0-9, and J-Dubb collaborated for 19 points and 18 rebounds. Silk Money contributed 4 treys in the 2nd half, but the 39-23 halftime deficit proved to be insurmountable for team Regulators. SMH.

Heart-N-Soul led his team, Funky Technicians (1-3) to their 1st win of the 2012 season. He turned in a dominant performance, tallying 27 points (11.18 from the field and 4/6 from the stripe), 8 rebounds, 8 dimes, 5 thefts and 1 block.

Team Sky High was led by Frost (19 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 thefts) and E-Smoove (18 points, 11 boards, 8 dimes and 1 steal). Billy-Ho tallied his 3rd straight double digit scoring effort with 16 points. His streak of consistency also included 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 thefts and 1 block. But team Sky High appears to be losing altitude as they came up on the short end of a 76-67 decision.

This week belonged to Heart-N-Soul. In two games, he’s accumulated 52 points, 16 boards, 12 dimes, 9 thefts and 2 blocks – going 16/32 from the field and 18/26 from the stripe in those two games. In the waning minutes of today’s victory, he knocked down a triple and tallied 2 steals, a block and an assist. Giving Sky High the bizzness fo sho! Heart-N-Soul is the undisputed Player of the Week.

Nuff Said,

MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Look Who’s Monster Ballin

The Phenom

*32.1 points (129 total), 10.2 rebounds, and 2.1 steals (4 games played)

Heart-N-Soul

19.1 points (77 total), 5.3 rebounds, 4 assists, and *4.3 steals (4 games played)

Frost

16 points and 2.1 steals (4 games played)

Geezy

15.3 points, 2.3 assists (10 in 1 game), and 1.2 steals (4 games played)

4-0-9

14.3 points, *17.3 rebounds, and 2 steals (4 games played)

Billy-Ho

14 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2 steals (4 games played)

E-Smoove

19 points, 12 rebounds, *6 assists, and 1.1 block (2 games played)

 

*League Leading Stat



Sign of the Twine: Rap Session, Week 2

B-ballers, 

What’s poppin?

Basketball has always been labeled as a “tall man’s game.” Without question, the game has been dominated by the likes of Wilt “The Stilt” Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, and Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon.  

But, it’s the little men – like Allen Iverson (The Answer), Damon Stoudamire (Mighty Mouse), Calvin Murphy, Tyrone Boques (Muggsy), and the gravity defying Anthony Webb (Spud) – that have transcended the sport into the global delight we know it as today.  Check the stats on the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest.  Nuff said.

The intrepid nature of a little man makes a big impact on a “tall man’s game.” A combination of speed hops and determination; my man Frost is nothing less than a game changer.  Whether he’s defending the passing lands or pushing the rock in the transition – his speed is a blur.

Nobody catches up with Frost.  Feel me?  But, you MannofStat  speaks the lingo of the little man.  So I was able to have a brief sit-down with the youngsta coming up in the Death Row b-ball league.

MannofStat:  Frost, what’s good, Dunn?

Frost:  I’m good.  What’s up wit cha?

MannofStat:  I’m waiting on the game tonight.  You already know “The Durantula” is gonna give Lebron the bizzness tonight, right?

Frost:  No doubt.  OKC ain’t playing no games.

Both:  (Bump fists)

MannofStat:  I feel the same way about your squad, Sky High.  I mean, you got E-Smoove back, but losing the King Cobra has to be a devastating blow.  How do you plan to keep this team in the race for the chip? 

Frost:  Losing King Cobra was a major blow to our team.  His presence will be missed, but at the same time; one man don’t stop no show.  Feel me?

MannofStat:  No doubt

Frost:  I mean, we have to move on and continue to play and grow as a team.  Hopefully we can become solid as a unit.  When the King Cobra returns, we can finally play at our highest potential.

MannofStat:  You just tallied a career best (25 points), but it resulted in a loss.  How do you view that?

Frost:  Two ways, MannofStat.  First off, I think it shows my improvement as a basketball player.  To be able to put up that amount of points against some well rounded players is a testament to that.  Secondly, it shows that there is still work to be done.  Even though I scored 25, E-Smoove has 20 and Billy-Ho has 19, we still loss a close game.  Turnovers and missed foul shots really played a hand in our defeat.  As a player, I’ve gotta help correct this if we’re gonna contend for the number one spot.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s up.  Now, on an individual note:  You’ve achieved 2 chips in the last seasons.  You were also awarded Most Improved Player and best 6^th man honors in that span.  What’s left for you to achieve?

Frost:  I really don’t know, MannofStat.  Copping M.V.P of the scoring title would be cool, but I’m not aiming for it.  I mean, if it happens, then it happens.  This season started out kind of crazy, but it’s not over yet.

MannofStat:  You’re speaking of your ejection from last week’s “Water Session.”  Right?

Frost:  Yeah man.  Right now I’m trying to just focus on keeping my head in the game, and getting Sky High to the championship game.  As you said: “2 chips in the last 2 seasons.” I feel like, if I can help get our team there, then I can make it 3 chips in 3 seasons.  Feel me?

MannofStat:  Like the Spalding rolling off my fingertips, Dunn.  Stay chiseled, and the sky is the limit for team Sky High.  Ya heard?

Both:  (Bump fists).

Much Love,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: Mid-Week Special, Day 3

Allow me to reintroduce myself;  My name is Jamil, a.k.a., “Pop –A- Shot, the author of “The Profile of an Enigma” – featured on the “Word to the Masses” blog.  Check me out at http://word2themasses.blogspot.com/.

If you don’t know, now you know.  

Death Row B-Ball is now in full E-F-F-E-C-T.

In the first game we had team Regulators vs. Sky High.  The Regulators Gezzy coming off yet another career day.  Shooting 11/16 from the field, 3 boards, and 3 steals (22 points).  Backing him up was Big Dogg, 12 points, 5 boards, 5 assists, 2 steals and 1 block.  B-dot a.k.a, “4-0-9” had to sit for 4 min.  His absence allowed team Sky High to go on a roll, tying the game at 23.

Despite Sky High keepin it close through the whole game, Regulators achieved the victory, 73-67.

4-0-9 set a new league record for rebounds (26).  He shot 6/12 from the field, dished out 3 assists, had 3 steals and 1 block.  J-Dubb and Silk Money combined for (20 points).

Team Sky High fought a hard battle.  Their big man, King Cobra is currently unavailable.  But, E-Smoove stepped up to the plate, grabbing 13 boards.  He finished 5/19 from the field (20 points).  He also had 4 assists and 2 blocks.  Backing him up was Frost.  He scored (25 points) 11/23 from the field and added 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 thefts.  Despite getting tossed out of his last game Frost kept his team within striking distance.  Billy Ho finished with (19 points) 8/10 from the field, 6 boards, 2 assists and 2 steals.

In game 2, we had the Runnin Rebels vs. Funky Technicians.

The Funky Technicians were looking for their first win, despite jumping out to a 10-3 lead, the Funky Technicians couldn’t fight off a Runnin Rebel surge that resulted in RR taking a 14-13 lead.  Two big treys by Jimi Jam kept the Funky Technicians close, but the Phenom and the Carpenter said:  “Let’s go” and the Runnin Rebels turned up the heat, running the score up to 42-31 at the half.

Now just before the half, we had Bucktown donate 2 points by making a layup in the opponent’s basket for the play of the day J LOL.

The leading scores at the half were The Phenom (23 points) and Heart-N-Soul (13 points).

As the second half got under way, Runnin Rebels looked like the Lakers of the late 80’s and early 90’s – with The General running the show.  He dished out no look passes – driving to the rack at will.  He finished with (11 points) 4/8 from the field, 3 boards, 7 assists and 1 steal. 

Before The Phenom fouled out at 11:24 mark, he wreaked havoc, finishing with 31 points (14/19 from the field), 11 boards 3 assists and steals.  Backing him up was Scrappy (19 points, 9 boards, 2 assists and 2 steals).  The Carpenter finished with (13 points, 6/10 from the field), 19 boards and 2 assists.

Hill Top was 3/4 from the field; he grabbed 8 boards and had 1 assist and 1 steal.  Despite the Funky Technicians looking for their win, it was another disappointing day, 85-71.  If someone doesn’t step up and take leadership, they’re going to see more bad days ahead.

This game was plagued with fouls.  Heart-N-Soul and Bucktown were both D.Q.’d due to fouls.  They need to find a way to put the puzzle together and make it work.  It’s always another day.  Heart-N-Soul finish with (5/14 8 boards, 4 assists, 4 steals, 1 block, 25 point).  Tone (6/17, 9 boards, 2 assists, 14 steals and 17 points).  Bucktown (7/15, 6 boards, 1 steal, 1 block and 17 points).  Pitt Bull (2/7 12 boards, 2 steals and 4 points).  Jimi Jam and Slick Rick combine for 8 points.

In the immortal words of Young Geezy:

“You think you ballin cause you got a block. 

He think you ballin cause you got a block.

You know them cats wanna see me fall.”

So step your game up because God-willin, Friday, it’s another jump ball.

Calling the shots.

Jamil, a.k.a., Pop-A-Shot

Copyright © 2012 by Jamil

Sign of the Twine: (Water) Day 2

It’s that time again.  June.  The NBA playoffs are reaching a crescendo.  Lebron went out of his mind dropping 45 on the old-heads up in Beantown forcing a game 7 back in South Beach tomorrow night – with K.D. and the boys layin’ in the cut back in OKC looking untouchable.  It’s hot and Death Row b-ball is on and poppin.’

Game one saw The Phenom (26 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals) lead the Runnin’ Rebels past Sky-High 50 – 40.  The Rebels opened on a 10 – 0 run triggered by swarming D by Scoop (8 points, 15 rebounds, 1 assist, 5 steals and 1 block) and the General (9 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals and 1 block).  Sky-High made adjustments but looked out of sync all game long. Young Frost was ejected after receiving a double-technical foul at the 5:55 mark of the 1^st half, further depleting an already under-manned squad.  

But, Billy-Ho held them down with (17 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal and 1 block) – Grown Man Ballin.’ SunChild (4 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist, 6 steals, and 2 blocks) brought the high-level intensity we’ve come to expect from him.  Runny Ray, Ali and Lil’ Chris combined for (16 points, 19 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals and 1 block)  in a gritty performance that, even in the loss, put everyone on notice that if you want the chip, you’ll have to go through Sky-High and oh, by the way; Breaing News:  E-Smoove is back from a temporary hiatus.  Watch out for Sky-High.

Game 2 featured the Regulators and the Funky Technicians.  The Technicians got off to an 11-2 run lead by Heart-N-Soul (13 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 5 steals), Bucktown (10 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks); Pitt Bull went hard for (12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block) and Nasty Nas snatched boards and took names (6 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks) bringing the fear factor to the paint. 

But, too much Regulators, led by B-dot (22 points, 13 rebounds, 2 assist and 1 steal), a career day from Freezy (18 points, 10 assists, and 3 steals) and a double/double from the Bigg Dogg (10 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal and 1 block).  A less than stellar showing from Silk Money (8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals), not the gaudy numbers we usually get from him – a true baller; and only a matter of time before he gets untracked.  Regulators win 61-53.

Congratulations to the co-players of the week.  B-dot’s numbers for the two games this week: (35 points, 34 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals).  And of course, the Phenom: (65 points, 23 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals); that’s whoa!  Now that’s bringin the heat.  Next week - 6 games – and I promise your b-game will not get it done; bring it.  It’s that time again. 

Also, shout out to the new refs:  Big Bank, The Diesel and Lil’ Magic.  My peers; My family.  Let’s demonstrate to the world the possibilities of Man.  Much respect!

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Sign of the Twine: Rap Session, Week 1

B-ballers,

What’s good?  B-ball is sometimes misinterpreted as a sport for the most gifted athletes.  I mean, in this modern day of b-ball, Kobe, Lebron, “Melo” and “D-Rose,” have set a pretty high standard – concerning the modification of what a baller should be.  But, in my opinion; b-ball is more of a definitive expression displayed by anyone who possesses the will to compete.  Feel me?

This Rap Session introduces the masses to a youngsta the Row knows as, “Streetz.” For the past three seasons, I’ve watched him grow as a baller, but more importantly, I can see his maturation as a person.  As his insight continues to expand, Streetz recognizes that death row b-ball is more than a game.  His youthful will to compete on the court, or in the court, is not to be denied.  Stay tuned, because the Streetz is watching.  Ya heard?

MannofStat:  What is do, Streetz?

Streetz:  I’m good, fam.  Thanks for the interview.  How are you?

MannofStat:  I’m good Dunn.

Both:  (Bump fists)

MannofStat:  What would you say to the naysayers who try to put a black eye on our b-ball movement?

Streetz:  Death row b-ball has been a way for me to express myself.  I mean, the way the ball moves and sounds when it goes through the net, or the rhythm of the ball bouncing on the court, temporarily releases the tension of being stranded on death row.  Feel me?

MannofStat:  Word is bond.  That tension will either make you or break you.  Ya heard?

Streetz:  That’s real talk, MannofStat.

MannofStat:  Some ballers emulate the greats as a mean of refining their own skills.  Is there anyone you pattern your game after?

Streetz:  My style of play is simple; hustle.  Whatever I do, I go hard.  Lebron is my favorite player because he goes H.A.M. on both ends of the floor.  Now, I know I’m not a go-to man, but whatever team I play for, I give them my all.  I can defend, rebound, and score whenever my team calls on me to do so.  Being a role player is not a problem for me.

MannofStat:  The injury bug has been feeding on you lately.

Both:  (Laughs)

MannofStat:  What’s the status on your latest injury?

Streetz:  I don’t know what it is, fam.  I just can’t stay healthy (shaking his head).  My left ankle is still causing me pain every now and then, but I have an anti-inflammatory injection scheduled.  That will relieve some of the pain until I have some bone spurs removed.

MannofStat:  Aight.

Streetz:  My right thumb is fractured at the joint.  It’s been painful, but I’m healing.  I’ve already gotten the green light to play ball again.  So I’ve been shooting around, throughout the week.  Next game, I’ll be going H.A.M. nonetheless.

MannofStat:  There’s no questioning your spirit of competitiveness.  Has watching from the sidelines helped your game?

Streetz:  No doubt, fam.  Watching from the sidelines helped me to see that  I need to go harder in the paint.  I know I need to get better at timing my jump when I attempt to block a shot, but my trump will be to use my youth and speed when I’m matched up against some of the older ballers.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s up!

Streetz:  Keep doing what you do, fam.  You got skills.  I’ll see you at the table.

MannofStat:  Fo sho!

Both:  (Bump fists)

Be Easy,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann