Sign of the Twine: Monumental Exhibition

B-ballers,  

What it do?

Allen Iverson, a.k.a. “The Answer” was honored before the tip-off of last night’s critical game 6, between my Sixers and the Boston Celtics.  The Answer has a connection with the Philly fanfare that makes him a staple in Sixers’ history.  In my opinion, history adds flavor to the relevancy of the present.  Na mean?

Today’s b-ball assembly was predicated on history . For the first time in the history of our league, death row b-ball will be officiated by our own, FUBU.  Ya heard?  Big Bank, Lil’ Magic and The Diesel are 3 ballers who know a little something about chasing the chip (7 championships between them since 2006).  Taking the court today – as the officiating crew – for the 2012 season, is proof that the brainchild of Earl J. Richmond, a.k.a. “The Blueprint” (D.O.E. 5/6/2005), continues to evolve.  Feel me?

First year coach and team Dynasty alumnus, J-Rock won this year’s draft lottery.  His first pick was 1^st team All-World selection, The Phenom.  With a strong supporting cast, the team, “Runnin Rebels, is my preseason pick to win the chip, but your MannofStat has been wrong before.

Team “Sky High” challenged the Runnin Rebels in today’s initial scrimmage.  Coached by the Bird Man, team Sky High will have the services of 2^nd year big man, SunChild and the luxury of snagging last season’s top 6^th man/ Most Improved Player, Frost.

The 2^nd scrimmage featured the reigning M.V.P / Defensive Player of the Year, Heart-N-Soul.  He was the top pick (2^nd overall) for coach Tariq’s Funky Technicians.  Hopefully, their season will be as entertaining as the classic Lord Finesse hip-hop album of the mid 90’s (The Funky Technician).  That’s what’s up!

Coach T.C. will coach team Regulators.  His top pick, Silk Money (3^rd overall) was unable to attend today’s scrimmage against Funky Technicians.  The Bigg Dogg and rookie big man, “B-dot” will have to set the pace for team Regulators until the 1^st team All-World selection and my preseason pick for M.V.P. returns.

Today’s officiating was better than average.  The stripes will fine tune any game management discrepancies before next week’s season opener.  The surest method of achieving accuracy is repetition.  We’ll all get better as “The Sign of the Twine” progresses.  Ya heard?

Be Easy,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: 2012 PreSeason Rap Session

B-ballers, 

What’s good?

As I list to Kobe “Bean” Bryant square off with Kevin Durant, a.k.a “Durantula,” I can’t help but think of the death row ballers gathering for our annual preseason meeting, yesterday (5/18/12).

The atmosphere was heavily fueled with b-ball intensity.  Looking around the conference room, I could see The Phenom wearing his game face;  The Carpenter sitting in the corner, daring someone to challenge his rebounding supremacy;  SunChild contemplating whose shot he’ll send to the weight pile, in the opening game;  and Heart-N-Soul ready to retain his status as MVP and Defensive Player of the Year.

Standing in the midst of these ballers, naturally triggered the point guard within me:

• ·          Behind the back pass to Heart-N-Soul while in transition.
• ·         Throwing the back door lob to The Phenom; Game Time!!
• ·         Taking an outlet pass from The Carpenter after he clears the boards.
• ·         Copping a steal because SunChild forced my opponent into a poor decision.

The only ingredient missing was setting records with Lil’ Magic.  Find out why in this 1^st Rap Session of 2012.

MannofStat:  Lil’ Magic how you feel, Dunn?

Lil’ Magic:  I’m good, MannofStat.

Both:  Exchange the Team Dynasty handshake (2 slaps to the right palm).

MannofStat:  No wet jumpers.  No barking as a coach.  You’re wearing a whistle this year.  With no chip to chase, what can we expect from you as an official?

Lil’ Magic:  The transition from player to coach wasn’t hard for me because I’ve always been an extension of my coach whenever I’m on the floor.  The communication was always there.  Now, the transition to ref may be hard at first.

MannofStat:  So what’s the strategy for a rookie ref?

Lil’ Magic:  Well, I’m gonna  keep it fair.  Call what I see or feel I see, and stick with it.  I’m an aggressive baller, so I’m gonna let the guys play at times.  I’ll probably get some dirty looks, but that comes with the territory.  Feel me?

MannofStat:  No doubt.  But, what’s it going to be like watching The Phenom do his thing from an officiating standpoint?

Lil’ Magic:  Man, you know me and The Phenom have had some great battles throughout the years.  He may be my on court nemesis, but he’s still my brother.  So, I want him to do well.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s up.  Let’s switch gears for a minute.  What’s the status with your back injury?

Lil’ Magic:  Well, I’m still in the process of healing.  The neurologist doesn’t want me lifting anything over 20 pounds for at least 4 months.

MannofStat:  So that General Tso Chicken shouldn’t be a problem next week? (Laughs)

Lil’ Magic:  (Laughs) No sir.

MannofStat:  Aight.  It seems like it’s taking forever for my Achilles to heal.  I can only imagine what its like recovering from back surgery.

Lil’ Magic:  I gotta tell you, MannofStat, I was scared.  I had a herniated disc touching a nerve.  It was a painful process that I wouldn’t wish on anybody.  The surgery was something I really needed.

MannofStat:  I’m sure, but now its on you to apply that same on court desire to your rehab and recovery.  You’ll be good if you take that same approach.  Good luck with that whistle, Dunn.

Lil’ Magic:  Thanks MannofStat.

Both:  (2 slaps to the right palm).

Be Easy,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Sign of the Twine: 2012 PreSeason Review

Twine – A strong string or cord made of two or more threads twisted together. To become interlaced or interwoven.

- American Heritage College Dictionary

B-ballers,

What it do?

Ever since I’ve been able to bounce a basketball, the word “twine” has been a part of my on court vocabulary – as a means of describing the results of a buttery smooth jumpshot. The spot up; the release’ and the sweet sound of the ball raking nothing but “twine” is the repetitive nature that proves to be addictive, to the soul of a death row baller.

The ball splashing through the net is indicative of accomplishment. The net/twine is significant in the sense of gamesmanship. Advising your opponent of your intentions to strum the twine, before your shot is released, breeds an edge of confidence that can’t be taught. Na mean?

I’d like to think of this upcoming season as: “Sign of the Twine.” You’ve heard the term: “Sign of the Times,” in reference to major changes on the horizon, right? Well, major changes are happening on North Carolina’s death row.

In the courts, the battering ram of Racial Justice is blazing a trail to a judicial overhaul. The shoddy serology of the state’s crime lab has been exposed as an insult to “Blind Justice.” Justice has yet to be served. Feel me?

On the court, the recreation staff has turned over the responsibilities of officiating the actual tournament games to our own in-house officiating crew. The officiating crew will be led by the row’s glue-guy, “Big Bank.” He’ll be selecting his officiating crew as this goes to press. “Two or more threads twisted together.” Ya heard?

Each of us is a thread interwoven with the next man to produce the harmonious effect of the twine. This year, the effect of the Twine will be change, B-ballers. Be there, and be of it.

Take a look at more interlaced threads that make up this year’s All-World Squad. These players were selected based on last season’s performance and the progress they’ve made over the winter. The pulse of the row is bouncing once again. Word is bond!

Be Easy,


MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

2012 All-World Squad

1st Team

Heart-N-Soul

Silk Money

The Phenom

Scoop

The Carpenter

2nd Team

E-Smoove

SunChild

Bigg Dogg

Scrappy

Bucktown

3rd Team

The General

Frost

Billy-Ho

Nasty-Nas

Geezy

Honorable Mentions: Streets, Runny Ray, Tone and J-Dubb

Concrete Soul: The Chip, Day 17

B-ballers,

The following statement was made by the director of Strawberry Mansion Athletic Association, after a shooting at the rec center on 33^rd and Diamond, the old stomping grounds of former high school legends, Hank Gathers (R.I.P.) and Rasheed Wallace.

“This is the reason we don’t have basketball games, because historically, they have a culture that brings on a whole negative side.”

-          -Derrick Ford

Forgive me if my interpretation of this quote is out of context, but it sounds like Derrick Ford is implying that b-ball begets violence.  But, I know better.  B-ball doesn’t breed violence.  Communities, authorities and government do.  B-ball has been a scapegoat for far too long.  Ya heard?

According to Derrick Ford’s statement, a death row b-ball tournament is incapable of existing for a decade, without incident.  We are labeled, “the worse of the worst.” We are recognized as the most violent criminals in the state, but somehow we contradict the negative culture that Derrick Ford speaks of.

We do this and we do this well.  The eyes of the world are on us, but there are others – like Derrick Ford – that continue to wear blindfolds, when dealing with violence in their communities.  If the blindfold is removed, Mr. Ford and others like him, would see that the violence in his community didn’t start with some youngstas and a gat.  Na mean?

Team Chaos finishes this season as the 2011 tournament champs.  Chaos (13-3) weathered the QuietStorm (12-5), 75-57.  Heart-N-Soul led the onslaught with 19 points (8/14 from the field), 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal.  The regular season M.V.P./Defensive Player of the Year, and now Player M.V.P, set the pace.  Giving team Chaos a 16-6 advantage at the end of the 1^st period.

QuietStorm would rally in the 2^nd period.  E-Smoove shot 6/14 from the field and finished with a team high 15 points (2/3 from the stripe).  He scored 10 points in the second quarter, leading a 29-12 surge to close out the 1^st half with a 35-28 lead.

The 2^nd half belonged to Chaos.  Heart-N-Soul did most of the damage, scoring 12 of his game high, 19 in the 3^rd quarter.  The Carpenter closed out the season in dominant fashion, 16 points (7/10 from the stripe), 10 boards and 1 block.  Including a deep trey, to add to a dominant 25 point third quarter, for team Chaos.  The league’s top 6^th Man/Most Improved Player, Frost, had 16 points (4/4 from the stripe), 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block. 

And, 1^st team All-World Selection, Silk Money registered 15 points on a dismal 5/20 shooting.  He recovered from his poor shooting by tallying 10 boards, 3 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks.  Silk Money was also 5/8 from the stripe.

The Gem closed out his season with team QuietStorm on a strong note.  He finished with 14 points (season high), 5 rebounds and 2 steals.  Billy-Ho registered his 1^st career double/double (10 points, 10 boards, 2 assists and 1 block).  The Phenom struggled offensively.   He shot 3/10 from the field (2/6 from beyond the arc).  He finished with 9 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, 2 steals and 1 block.  QuietStorm was outscored 47-22 in the 2^nd half.  SMH

This season is another success story in the history of our lives, b-ballers.  I wanna take this time to thank my incomparable statistical Dream Team, Mr. Blue, El Indio and Froggy-Frogg.  This season was everything it was supposed to be.  Without your support, none of this is possible.  Real talk.

I thank all of you for your support and participation.  The coaches, the role players (Flex, Shorty-Wop, Instant Offense and Lou Loc), thank you for being a part of history.  And I can’t forget my man Father Time.  Good look, Dunn.

One Love,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

2011 All-Tournament Squad

Heart-N-Soul

15.2 points, 4 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.3 steals (4 playoff games)

Silk Money

17.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2 steals, and 2.1 blocks (4 playoff games)

The Phenom

23.2 points, 8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and .2 blocks. (5 playoff games)

E-Smoove

16.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2 assists 2.1 steals, and .8 blocks (5 playoff games)

The Human Eraser

14 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1 assist, 2.1 steals, and 3 blocks (3 playoff games)

Honorable Mentions:  J-Rock, The Carpenter, Bigg Dogg, Frost and SunChild

Concrete Soul: Championship Thursday, Day 16

B-ballers,

What’s good?

I was playing basketball long before Datsun became Nissan, but I gotta tell you, this death row b-ball league never ceases to amaze me.  Today’s championship game was no less than epic.  I only wish the public could see our games as I do.  The fanfare.  The team chants.  The cohesiveness and the rivalries, exhibit a love for the game that’s universal.  This love isn’t exclusive to Cameron Indoor Stadium or the Dean Dome.  The love that flows through those historical b-ball arenas, exists right here on our rec yard.  If you don’t believe me, then keep reading.

The top seed, team Chaos (12-3), came into today’s game slightly favored over the 2^nd seeded, team QuietStorm (12-4).  The QuietStorm has to win 2 games to be crowned as champs.  Team Chaos has to win one game and the celebration can be on like a phone.  Na mean?

The 1st half ended with team QuietStorm leading 29-27.  Team Chaos recovered in the 3^rd quarter.  They outscored the QuietStorm 24-11 and bulldozed their way to a commanding 51-40 lead at the end of 3 quarters.

Heart-N-Soul led all scorers with 23 points (11 in the 3^rd).  The league’s M.V.P. shot an impressive 11/22 from the field and 1/1 from behind the arc.  He also tallied 5 rebounds and 8 thefts (season high).  Silk Money contributed 13 points (5/14 from the field and 1/3 from behind the arc), 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks.  The league’s top 6^th man, Frost generated 12 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals off the bench.

Everything was falling into place for team Chaos.  It was merely a matter of 8 minutes standing between them and triumph, but, team QuietStorm refused to throw in the towel.  The 4^th quarter would breed the perfect storm.  QuietStorm put the cuffs on the dynamic backcourt of team Chaos and limiting Chaos to 6 fourth quarter points.  Chaos shot one free throw in the 4^th quarter.  The QuietStorm was 4/5 from the stripe, in the 4^th quarter.

The Phenom led the QuietStorm with 19 points (7/21 from the field and 2/9 beyond the arc).  He also registered 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal.  It was a tough shooting day for the Phenom, E-Smoove was an outstanding 5/8 from the field and 3/4 from treysville.  He finished with 13 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 thefts and 3 blocks.  Billy-Ho graciously picked up the slack by tallying 10 points (6 in the 4^th), 6 rebounds and 1 steal.  Nasty Nas and Lil’ Bison combined for 12 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists.

Billy-Ho hit 2 clutch free throws and a basket to cut the Chaos lead to 1.  But, a stampeding Lil’ Bison would prove to be the difference for the QuietStorm.  With seconds to play and down by one, Lil’ Bison elected to foul rater than allow team Chaos to control the clock, a decision that proved to be defensive genius.  Frost missed the front end of the 1 and 1, but Chaos recovered the rebound.  Only to have Lil’ Bison’s tenacious defenses force a turnover.

The QuietStorm’s next possession showcased more drama than Mobb Deep at the Source Awards:  The Phenom drives right.  He’s trapped.  He goes baseline.  Three defenders meet him under the basket.  He takes flight and finds a wide open Lil’ Bison at the left elbow.  Lil’ Bison steps into the pass.  He stares down the basket.  He pulls up.  He releases.  Nothing but twine!!  The QuietStorm wins game 1, 58-57!!  Ya heard?

It was a heart breaking loss for the mighty team Chaos, but it was a victory that was sweeter than a Swisher for the QuietStorm.  Stay tuned for the decisive game 2, next week.  That’s what’s up!

Live Well,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: The Blue View, Day 15

Team Hustle.  The QuietStorm.  The semi-finals.  Opening statement made by J-Rock with a pullup trey.  He finished with 17 points (on 5 of 19 shooting/ 2 0f 7 beyond the Arc), 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks.  Both teams were tentative and it was a low-scoring half, the only excitement coming on a buzzer-beater by Scrappy (6 points) to end the half, 19-13.

QuietStorm tried to creep away, scoring twice early in the 3^rd quarter.  Hustle responds, picking up the D.  Hustle found a spark that grew into a inferno.  Led by The General (9 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals) the point guard from NYC represented the BIG EAST.  And like the UConn Huskies he performed best in the clutch, scoring all of his 9 points in the 4^th quarter.  Hitting a trey reminiscent of Jeremy Lamb in the final-4, getting steals and making clutch ft’s to give Hustle their first lead of the game. 

E-Smoove (22 points [Season High) 8 of 17 from the field and 4 of 9 beyond the Arc] 6 rebounds, 1 assist) went “out of his mind” scoring 8 straight points to put QuietStorm back in command.  Hustle regroups, comes roaring back again to tie it 52 all with :40 seconds to play.  Coming off of a shot-clock violation, J-Rock went to the basket hard to pull off the upset and cap a remarkable comeback.

He is fouled- with no time left on the clock.  The rec-yard is in a frenzy.  Sink one and it’s good night QuietStorm.  He misses the first.  There’s a collective gasp.  We wait with bated breath…he misses the second; pandemonium!!  And new-life for QuietStorm, who held on in over-time 59-56 in an instant classic.  The Phenom finished with (20 points, 7 of 24 and 0 of 6 behind the Arc – 7 rebounds, 2 assists). 

Both teams shot poorly, but it was the gem whose (9 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 4 steals and 1 block) quiet yet deadly efficiency and intangibles is what keeps QuietStorm’s championship ambitions afloat.  Pitt Bull (12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal) Scoop (9 points [on 2 of 10 shooting], 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks) and Runny Ray (5 points, 6 rebounds) played big for team Hustle.

This is the final Blue-View of the season, and the pleasure has been all mine.  Acknowledgements to the recreation staff, particularly Mr. Smith, Mr. Stephenson and Mr. Harrison.  They bring a dynamic to the table that is engaging, courteous and professional, many thanks to them and much respect.

To the “Blueprint” Earl J. Richmond, gone but not forgotten.  It’s an honor to take part in and see his ideas touch the lives of others.  To the staff for working with us, particularly the U.C. Lt. Jordan.  To the MannofStat for always seeing the big picture.  Also to my table-mates, El-Indio and the Frogman, keeping the table tight.  Questioning the integrity of the table should be a technical foul. 

To the Rec-Man, being a difference-maker with the ice and to all the ballers and coaches, learning from the ups and the downs and becoming better men.  The competition, the camaraderie and the day we realize we’re all on the same team.

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Concrete Soul: Rap Session, Week 6

B-ballers,

What’s poppin?

It’s been an eventful week.  We’re now one game away from the championship round of our double elimination tournament.  This season has been filled with over the edge excitement, buzzer beaters, overtime periods and trash talk that would make the great Gary “The Glove” Payton bite his tongue.  Word is bond!

The excitement on the death row rec yard isn’t limited to the prisoner’s exhibition of fanfare and gamesmanship.  The staff is enjoying the action as well.  Though most wouldn’t admit it, death row basketball has become the sunshine rising in the darkness of their workplace.  Now, I don’t know about you, but for me, every sunrise represents another opportunity; a new day, a chance to iron the wrinkles of yesterday.  A sunrise is nothing less than a sight of beauty.  Feel me?

This particular rap session is like death row b-ball back in 2000.  It’s the 1^st of its kind and as the masses continue to read this, it will be like a fine wine.  It just gets better with time.  Na mean?  Traditionally, I’m trading verbs with the ballers or coaches of the row, but this rap session will feature someone who doesn’t have a death sentence hanging over their existence.  

Speaking under the condition of anonymity, the individual – he or she – is more than familiar with our “Ball Til We Fall” movement.  Speaking from the shadows of our sunshine, this voice feels the rhythm of our bounce.  Ya heard?

MannofStat:  What’s good, Peoples?

Shadow:  It’s been a hot summer, but other than that, everything is good my man.

MannofStat:  I know you don’t have much time, so I’ll try to squeeze in as many questions as I can, before you have to return to your duties.

Shadow:  Yeah, let’s do this.

MannofStat:  As someone on the inside, what would you tell society about the people they’ve been led to believe are, “the worse of the worse?”

Shadow:  That’s a great question, because I just read about a shooting that left a 14 year old dead, in North Philly.  It went down at a rec center, if I’m not mistaken.

MannofStat:  Yeah, You’re talking about 33^rd and Diamond.  That’s the stomping grounds of Rasheed Wallace and the late, great, Hank Gathers.

Shadow:  Well, apparently they don’t play basketball there anymore.  The shooting took place during a party.  When the director addressed the media, he used the violence as a means to justify why they no longer permit basketball games to be played there.  He said the culture brings on a whole negative side.  

If basketball brings forth negativity in the free world, then I find it ironic that basketball breeds collectiveness and peace of mind, on death row.  In my experience, with death row, I’d have to tell society that no matter what someone may have done in their past, you always have time to change.

MannofStat:  As frustrating as times may be, what role has death row b-ball played in your life?

Shadow:  Death row b-ball always reminds me, that playing the game of b-ball is a great way to escape stress and other problems in life.  It also reminds me that no matter what problems you may have in life, doing something you love is far more powerful than any stress you may have.

MannofStat:  Aight.  I hear your walkie talkie coming to life, so this is my last question.  Who is the greatest clutch shooter, Dirk Nowitzki, Reggie Miller, Larry Bird or Ray Allen?

Shadow:  (Decreasing the volume on the walkie talkie) without question, Larry Bird.  He’s made clutch shot after clutch shot.  Not just one year, or one playoff series, but his entire career.

Nuff Said,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: The Blue View, Day 14

We knew it was coming, a deeper bass-line in the vocal cords, the hard fouls, the dirty looks; the push for the CHIP.  It had started to rain early, but the precipitation felt the playoff intensity and immediately evaporated.  Its money time – Silk Money time that is.  In a scintillating performance 28 points (season high), 8 rebounds 4 assists, 4 steals, 1 block – in which he hit clutch shot after clutch shot.  Scoring 10 2^nd quarter points along with (6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals 1 block) at the half.  Not only rising to the occasion but laying down the gauntlet and propelling his team to within one victory of winning it all.

QuietStorm seemed out of sync from the start.  The Phenom kept it close with 21 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals, however his shot was off early to defend – and the misses turned into easy baskets for Chaos who led 32-17 at the break.  QuietStorm made a run with E-Smoove scoring all of his 18 points in the 2^nd half.  Nasty Nas grabbed 10 massive boards, and the Gem, Billy-Ho and Lil’ Bison combined to snatch (16 GMB’s).  But, every run was answered by a Silk-trey, who also came up with a steal in the waning seconds of a 2-point game, and hitting clutch free throw to ice it 62-59 in what, I am sure is on the preview to an epic final.

Team Hustle and the SilverBacks met in our first elimination game.  The SilverBacks were led by the Birdman scoring (10 points) in the 1^st half and for some odd reason was not on the floor in the 2^nd half.  T-Owl came up big with (9 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals).  And Bucktown, SunChild and Tone combined for 12 points, 16 rebounds, 6 assists, 10 steals and 2 blocks) in typical blue-collar G.M.B. grind ‘em up fashion. 

Hustle was led by Scoop’s (19 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals and 5 swats), Bigg Dogg’s (10 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal) and J-Rock facilitated (5 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and 1 block) getting everyone involved in a tremendous all-around team performance.  Hustle led throughout, but the game SilverBacks tied the score 39 all with 6:09 to play.  They would not score again.  

Hustle closes with a 15-0 run, and we say so long to the SilverBacks 54-39, while Hustle survives to fight another day.  Do they have enough left in the tank to take out QuietStorm and play for it all?  Was J-Roc conserving his energy foreseeing the challenge ahead?  The showdown is Monday!  I’m already there.

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Regular Season Wrap Up

Regular Season M.V.P./Defensive Player of the Year

Heart-N-Soul (12 games played)

14.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists and *4.5 steals (53 total)

Scoring Champ

The Phenom (12 games played)

21.5 points per game (257 total)

Assist Leader

J-Rock (12 games played)

4.5 assist per game (53 total)

Chairman of the Boards

The Carpenter (12 games played)

11.5 rebounds per game (137 total)

Top Shot Blocker/ Hackman Award Recipient

The Human Eraser (12 games played)

3.5 blocks per game (41 total), 36 fouls (2 disqualifications)

Top 6^th Man/ Most Improved Player

Frost (12 games played)

8.9 points (17 career high), 3.4 rebounds and 1.7 steals

Rookie of the Year

SunChild (12 games played)

4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.3 steals and 2.6 blocks

‘* League Leader

Concrete Soul: Bassline, Day 13

B-ballers, 

 The playoffs are a chance to start anew.  It’s an opportunity to leave behind the bumps, bruises and disappointments of the regular season, and move forward like a civil rights march.  Ya heard?

The postseason is a new season, a season that has no room for losing streaks or mental breakdowns.  The postseason requires the best ballers to play with a sense of urgency.  If this requirement isn’t fulfilled, your season is no more.  The chip chasing ends, and the what if’s begin.  Na mean?

Team Chaos (11-2) played with that sense of urgency today.  This #1 seed didn’t underestimate the 4^th seeded SilverBacks (2-11) in this 1^st round of postseason play; Chaos led 20-15 at the half.  The SilverBacks continued their regular season trend of falling asleep in the 3^rd quarter.  Today they were outscored 15-6 in a tranquilizing 3^rd quarter.  When the SilverBacks finally awoke, the damage was too severe to overcome.  The beasts were pummeled 52-33.

Team Chaos will advance to the winner’s bracket.  They were led by Silk Money (15 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks).  Heart-N-Soul tallied 14 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals.  The Carpenter finished with 4 points, 12 boards, 1 assist and 2 steals.

The SilverBacks have yet to overcome the mistakes that have derailed what could’ve been a promising season.  They’ll have at least one more game to erase these mistakes.  Their only form of offensive production today, was Tone and Bucktown combining for 16 points.  SunChild finished with 5 points, 8 rebounds, 7 thefts (career best) and 3 blocks.

In game 2, The Phenom had no problem playing with a sense of urgency.  He tallied 25 points (5/6 from the stripe), 13 boards, 2 assists and 1 steal, leading his team QuietStorm (10-3) to a thunderous 66-47 victory over the dissipating team Hustle (3-10).  E-Smoove complemented The Phenom’s urgency with 13 points ((3/4 from the stripe), 6 rebounds 2 assists, 2 steals and 1 block.  The QuietStorm got a playoff career best from power forward, Billy Ho (10 boards).  They outscored team Hustle 17-4 in the 2^nd quarter.

Team Hustle was led by Scoop’s 14 points, 10 boards, 3 steals and 2 blocks.  J-Rock finished with 11 points (7 in the 4^th quarter), 4 assists, and 1 steal.  Bigg Dogg tallied 8 points, 10 boards, 2 assists and 1 block.  Team Hustle descends to the loser’s bracket to face the SilverBacks in the 1^st elimination game of this postseason.  Will team Hustle live up to the Ace Hood anthem?  Or, will the SilverBacks pound their chests and awaken the beast within? When I know, you’ll know, but until then, like Kool G, it’s a rap.

Be Easy

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Rap Session, Week 5

B-ballers,

What’s good?

The efforts of one man may not reach the expectations of another, but in life – as well as basketball – progression is worthy of acknowledgement.  Word is bond!

Meet Nasir Al-din Siddiq, a.k.a. Nasty Nas, a title fitting for a humble big man who has no problem handling the dirty work in the paint.  Over the years, Nasty Nas has developed into a solid presence on both ends of the floor.  A sound mind, on and off the court, Nasty Nas strives to better himself in the most crucial of life’s situations.  Ain’t no future in frontin.  So let’s go to the paint and get the real on the big man’s health and his team, QuietStorm’s upcoming postseason run.

MannofStat:  My man, what’s good?

Nasty Nas:  I can’t call it, brother.  And yourself?

MannofStat:  Well, I shot the jumper last Tuesday.  You know, doing a little on court scouting.  My back is a little stiff, but I’m ready to get back out there.  Ya heard?

Nasty Nas:  How long has it been since you last played?

MannofStat:  I’ve been shooting around, from time to time, but I haven’t really “played” since last summer (7/11/2010).  In fact, I was on the same squad with you and Streets, and we gave Silk Money and Slick Rick the bizzness.

Both:  (Laugh and bump fists)

Nasty Nas:  That’s what’s up.

MannofStat:  So, how does your knee feel?

Nasty Nas:  Both of my knees hurt like hell!  I take four Tylenol before every game and play through the pain.  There’s not much else I can do about it.

MannofStat:  Pain is a part of the game, my man.

Nasty Nas:  Trust me, I know that’s right.

MannofStat:  You were the league’s most improved player in 2009.  How has your game improved from then to now?

Nasty Nas:  Man, I’m old and clumsy and short of breath.  I’ve got high blood pressure and I need the cardio.  I just do the best that I can when I play.  If there has been any improvement, I owe it to Silk Money and Poppa Shot.  Pods 2 and 4, what up?

MannofStat:  Last season ended with a disappointing loss in the championship game for you.  Do you think your squad, QuietStorm has what it takes to win the chip this year?

Nasty Nas:  That was a devastating loss, but QuietStorm is a powerhouse team.  And we can handle our bizz.  We’ve got some of the best players in the league.  And they never fail to rain down critical baskets on the opposing team’s head.

MannofStat:  Okay, Player.  Nasty Nas is in your area about to cause mass hysteria!  Ya heard?

Nasty Nas:  I mean, what else can I say?  This is like the NBA of Central Prison.  And it’s an honor to have shared the court with every player on the row.  It’s a great feeling; something I’ll never forget.  So, thank you Brother.  I appreciate the ink you slang.  And this interview is what’s up.

MannofStat:  For the 1^st time in a minute, your MannofStat is speechless.  Good look, Dunn.

Deuces,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Chorus, Day 12

On this, the first day of the regular season; we’ve come a long way and yet still have a ways to go.  Such is life.  Competition builds character, however, it can also expose the lack thereof.  Let’s ascend!

Game 1.  Hustle-Chaos.  Chaos flowed, seeming to turn it on and off at will.  With perhaps their most balanced showing of the season.  Led by Silk Money (13 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals, and 3 blocks), and Heart-N-Soul (12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 6 steals.  Young Frost added 11 points (8 in the 1^st half).  Geezy chipped in 8 points.  And, The Carpenter hit for 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks, not only winning another rebounding title, dominating the paint but also showing his versatility by stepping out and nailing the trey.

Team Hustle was able to stay in the game due to the exploits of one, J-Rock 19 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals.  His line for the week, a sick:  53 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists and 7 steals.  At one point, hitting 3 treys in a row down the stretch, and trimming a 16 point deficit to 5.  Team Hustle played well.  Pitt Bull contributed 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks.  The Bigg Dogg had 5 points, 11 rebounds.  Scoop had 7 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 5 swats.  Runny Ray and The General combined for 12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks.  

But, overall there was just too much Chaos, 64-57. Game 2 saw the QuietStorm defeat the Silverbacks, but the SilverBacks led most of the way.  Led by SunChilds’ 10 points (career high) 9 boards, 4 assists, 4 steals and 4 blocks.  Tone had 21 points (career high) 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 6 steals and 1 block.  Bucktown had 12 points 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 4 blocks.  But, the Silverbacks were not able to capitalize in crunch time. 

E-Smoove (16 points, 7 rebounds) and Lil’ Scrappy (8 points, 3 rebounds) hit big shots for the QuietStorm to keep them in the game long enough for The Phenom to turn into The Phenom.  He had (21 points, 16 GMB’s , 3 assists, 2 steals and 1 block).  And that, along with a phenomenal performance on Monday (40 points, 16 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 block) scoring all of QuietStorm’s 7-overtime points and leading his team to two victories is more than enough to earn unanimous player of the week honors.

The playoffs begin next week.  If you want it, you gotta bring it.  Shooting from the charity stripe today was atrocious with all teams combining to shoot 34 of 64.  This tournament is up for grabs.  It’s quite simple:  Make your free throws-win the chip.  If you want it – Bring it.  The competition can make you or it can break you.

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Concrete Soul: Point Taken, Day 11

The following post is a scribe to “The Blueprint” of out death row b-ball league, Earl J. Richmond. (D.O.E, 5/6/2005)

E,

It’s been 6 years since out last in-depth conversation.  I know, I know.  This scribe is long overdue, but man, you know how I felt about your departure.  The tear I shed, on the night of your demise may as well have been a tattoo on my face, cause I can still feel it.  Ya heard?

But you and I always believed that everything happens for a reason.  You’re the point guard that was taken away from us.  It’s hard doing this without you, Dunn.  But, we’re doing it and doing it well.  Word is bond!

First and foremost, The Phenom and Lil’ Magic are no longer the youngstas you may have remembered them as.  They’re both still competitive as ever.  Lil’ Magic has taken the challenge of coaching, the year and The Phenom is still doing his thing from baseline to baseline.  Today, he led his squad, QuietStorm, to a 74-73 overtime victory over team Hustle.  He dropped a heavy load (40 points, 16 boards, 3 assists, and 1 block).  He nailed 6 treys and shot 6/7 from the stripe, in 26 minutes of play.  His performance would’ve made you proud.

Oh! Let me tell you about his competition.  J-Rock came to the row in 2006.  Obviously he never got a chance to meet you, but I’ve done my best to make sure he knows who you are.  Na mean?  He’s a baller, E.  He lives for match-ups like today’s.  J-Rock finished with 34 points (7/10 from the stripe), 6 rebounds, 5 dimes, and 2 steals.  He scored 18 points in the game’s final ten minutes.  Crazy, right?

I know you remember Scoop.  He’s J-Rock’s teammate this year.  Scoop handled his business as well (17 points, 13 boards, 1 assist, 4 thefts and 3 blocks).   He had an 8 point third quarter that would’ve had you on your feet, Dunn.  Real talk.

Lil’ Magic is coaching team Chaos.  Remember when you said you would always miss his competitiveness?  Well trust me, he’s on the sideline, but he hasn’t lost his competitive edge.  Can you say, Bobby Knight?  LOL.  Team Chaos is in 1^st place.  Heart-N-Soul has only scored 11 points in his last two outings.  But, ain’t nothing changed but the date.  He’s still “The Prince of Thieves” (11 steals in 2 games).  Ya heard?

The Carpenter is the ‘man in the middle’ for team Chaos.  Emphatic as ever, he’s still living for any rebound he can get his hands on.  Today, he collected 15 points, 15 boards, 2 assists and 2 steals.  Leading team Chaos to a 51-41 win, over the SilverBacks. Get this, Lil’ Chris coaches the Silverbacks.  Yeah, that’s right, Lil’ Chris.  We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?

Let me introduce you to our youth movement:  Silk Money runs the point for team Chaos.  He’s your type of baller, E, a true point, always looking for the open man.  He doesn’t need big points to stuff the stat sheet.  Today, he tallied 5 points, 11 boards, 5 dimes, 2 steals and 3 blocks.

Frost was last week’s P.O.W.  He’s small in stature, but tougher than a $2 steak.  Ya heard?  He runs the passing lanes, and finishes well, around the basket.  Coach Lil’ Magic got 15 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 1 block from the league’s most productive 6^th man.

Billy Ho is the white cat with the corn rows.  He plays with The Phenom and team QuietStorm.  He snatched 10 boards today, his 2^nd double-digit effort in 3 games.

SunChild doesn’t qualify as a youngsta, but this is his rookie season.  He snatched 16 boards (career high) for the SilverBacks, today.  As for the rest of us, we do what we do.  Na mean?

Big Mac, a.k.a. Father Time, has been keeping the rec yard up to par for the last 4 years.  Slick Rick is still shooting the spot-up jumper.  The Diesel just came off a career high (16 points) last week.  I honestly believe he’s never gonna stop ballin’, E.  And, Mr. Blue, El Indio and Froggy-Frogg are holding me down at the table.  Thanks to you, the world is watching us Ball Til We Fall.  That’s what’s up!

One Love,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Rap Session, Week 4

B-ballers, 

In any sport, former players normally make the best coaches.  NBA Hall of Fame coaches such as: Billy Cunningham, Phil Jackson, Jerry Sloan and Rudy Tomjonavich were good players, but they were great on the sidelines.  The legendary Bill Russell was the exception.  He experienced the thrill of playing and coaching simultaneously.  A feat that’s unheard of in today’s NBA, but in our league the exception is the norm.  Na mean?

Slick Rick is back on the court.  As a player, he’s won championships with team Dynasty in 2006 and The Undertakerz in 2007.  As a coach, he’s led teams Dark Cloud in 2008 and Locked & Loaded in 2009, to championship glory as well.  His team Gatlins lost in the championship game to the unstoppable team Mayhem in 2010, an impressive resume, fo-sho.  On this two year anniversary of the death of the late, great Michael Jackson, let’s find out why this player/coach/player “Never Can Say Goodbye.”

MannofStat:  What’s good, Slick Rick?

Slick Rick:  What’s up fella?

MannofStat:  You’ve gone from player, to coach and back to player.  How has the transition been for you?

Slick Rick:  (Laughs) Man, I’ll tell you something.  This transition has been painful to the body, because the speed of the game is much faster than our daily recreational ball.  Its non-stop, until the buzzer sounds.

MannofStat:  I feel you, “Old School.” (Laughs)

Slick Rick:  It’s also painful because as an ex-coach, I know my squad (SilverBacks) has the talent to really make some noise in the playoffs.  We just have to come together and play team ball.

MannofStat:  You played on some great championship squads.  Your SilverBacks are currently 2-8.  As a former coach, can you come up with a remedy to stop the bleeding?

Slick Rick:  Yes!  The only remedy is to focus on what’s ahead.  Let’s keep fighting as a team (Plants his fist into his palm).  The bleeding will stop when we learn from the mistakes that caused the bleeding.  This season isn’t a lost cause.  Did the NY Giants think it was a lost cause when they had to face the undefeated New England Patriots in the Super Bowl, in 2008?  They weren’t concerned with wins and losses.  They did what they had to do as a team, and shut that trash down!

MannofStat:  Okay, coach.  So, tell me.  Why did you leave the sidelines?

Slick Rick:  I just wanted to enjoy a year off and play with some of the guys I coached.  I missed the glory that comes from playing with and against some of the big ballers on the row.

MannofStat:  That’s what’s up!  Spoken like a true player/coach/player.  A legend knows no limits.  Ya heard?

Be Easy,

MannofStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Concrete Soul: Chorus Day 10

B-ballers,

20 games are in the books and there are 4 more to go.  It seems like this season has gone faster than Vin Diesel pushing the 69 Charger.  Na mean?

Team Hustle (3-7) finally snapped their 7 game losing streak and now own sole possession of 3^rd place.  The QuietStorm (7-3) snapped the 5 game winning streak of team Chaos (8-2), giving them a legitimate shot at the overall #1 seed, with two games left in their regular season.

Bigg Dogg led team Hustle with 11 points, 13 boards, 5 dimes and 5 thefts.  Scoop, a.k.a, The Human Eraser, assisted his teammate with the respectable stat line of his own 10 points, 14 boards, 2 assists, 1 steal and 4 swats.  Nine out of ten players scored for team Hustle today, including “Green Eyes,” a.k.a “Lou-Loc.” He contributed 4 points and 2 rebounds to a much needed victory by team Hustle.  Pitt Bull and The General combined for 16 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals and 3 blocks, respectively.

The SilverBacks (2-8) were led by The Diesel (16 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 assist and 1 block).  As a team, the SilverBacks shot 6/19 from the stripe.  Ouch!!  Team Hustle ties the regular season series at 2 games a piece with a 55-34 victory over the SilverBacks.

The QuietStorm is making a playoff push, accomplishing their biggest win of the season while holding the league’s most prolific backcourt (Silk Money and Heart-N-Soul) to a combined 9 points.  Real talk.  The Phenom led team QuietStorm with 18 points (10/11 from the stripe), 7 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block.  E-Smoove tallied 15 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 6 thefts and 2 blocks.

With Silk Money and Heart-N-Soul struggling offensively, the much needed offense came from the Chaos bench.  The speedy little man, Frost, a.k.a. JJB, led team Chaos with 15 points (8 in the 2^nd quarter), 4 rebounds and 2 steals.  The Carpenter contributed 8 points (al in the 2^nd half), 11 boards and 1 block.  Jamil, a.k.a., J-Strong, finished with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 4 thefts.  Team Chaos kept it interesting, but the QuietStorm prevailed, 51-45.

Coming off the bench, Frost had a productive week for team Chaos.  In 3 games, he has averaged 11.5 points (35 total), 4 rebounds and 2 steals.  His 17 point performance earlier this week was an impressive display of speed athleticism.  Making him more than worthy of this week’s P.O.W honors.  Ya heard?

Keep it 100,

MannoStat

Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann

Monster Ballers

2011 

The Phenom

*19.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.7 steals and .8 blocks 

Silk Money

15 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2 steals and 1.8 blocks 

Heart-N-Soul

15.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, *4.3 steals and 1.3 blocks 

E-Smoove

14.5 points, 7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.4 blocks 

Scoop

12.7 points, 7.9 rebounds 1.7 steals, and *3.3 blocks 

J-Rock

11.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, *4.3 assists and 2.5 steals 

Bigg Dogg

8.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.4 steals 

The Carpenter

6 points, *11.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.1 steals 

*League Leading Stat

Concrete Soul: The Blue View, Day 9

We’ve got unexpected action today that will put us back on schedule.  Bring it!  We ballin’ til we fallin,’ ya dig?  Game 1 featured the Quiet Storm and the SilverBacks.  The Phenom is (M.I.A) to start the game with a dental appointment, which presented the SilverBacks a golden opportunity to end their 1-game skid.  They began by executing a brilliant game strategy by Coach C. to double-team E-Smoove, Quiet Storm’s go to scorer in the absence of the Phenom, to near perfection. 

The SilverBacks went up by as many as 9 points with three players in double figures: Tone (12), Bucktown (10) and the Diesels (10).  However, the fort was held down for the Quiet Storm with 9 first half points from the Lil’ Bison and a solid contribution from Bill-Ho, including 8 points and a season high (12 Big Boy Boards).  They trailed at the half by only 3, 25-22.  Enter the Phenom (14 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assist, 1 steal and 1 block) and Quiet Storm takes its first lead at the 3:35 mark of the 3^rd quarter.  But the never-say-die SilverBacks answer with a 12-2 run and take a 9 point lead into the 4^th, but with the double-team coming off E-Smoove, he exploded for 17, 4^th quarter point to lead all scores and tie his season high of 21 points and Quiet Storm finished with their own 21-10 run to close it out 67-57. 

Game 2 saw Chaos go up against team Hustle.  Chaos began with their trademark swarming D.  to take an early 18-4 advantage.  Team Hustle digs in to close the gap 21-15.  Led by J-Rock’s 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks.  But there was too much Chaos who led 35-19 in a fast-paced first half led by 17 1^st half points from young Frost, (11) team assists and a 29-11 rebounding  advantage.  Lead pipe, lockdown defense kept Hustle in the game.  Limiting Chaos to only (2) 3^rd quarter points, eventually cutting the lead to 3. 

But a lack of cohesiveness by team Hustle, too much Silk Money (11 points, 13 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals and 1 block) plus solid, heady, veteran leadership by Heart-N-Soul, slowing the pace, getting to the line and sinking clutch FT’s to put the game on ice. Chaos reigns 55-42, but don’t blink because we lace ‘em up again in the morning and each time the ball goes in the air is an opportunity to make something happen.  It ain’t over.  Stay tuned.  That’s the Blue View. 

Mr. Blue

Copyright © 2012 by Paul Brown

Concrete Soul: Bassline, Day 8

B-ballers,

What's good?

Our games normally start around 8:30 a.m. By 10 o’clock, the temperatures usually reach the high 80’s to lower 90’s. The heat will continue to rise as we venture into the summer season. But the passion of the death row ballers exceeds 500 degrees, whenever the ball goes in the air. So, the occasional technical foul is just part of the menu. Ya heard?

Team Chaos (7-1) holds on to their 2nd game lead over 2nd placed team Quiet Storm (5-3). Chaos is riding a 4 game winning streak after dismantling the 2-6 SilverBacks, today. As a team, Chaos shot much better from the stripe today (5/10), a major improvement from last week’s Chorus session (8/28).

Heart-N-Soul led all scorers with 19 points (1/2 from the stripe). He also tallied 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 6 thefts. Geezy contributed 13 points (9 in the 2nd quarter), 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Last week’s P.O.W., Silk Money, produced 11 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks and a cross-over dribble that’s detrimental to all opposing ankles. Word is bond!

The SilverBacks were led by Slick Rick (10 points) and The Diesel (8 points). The rookie big man, SunChild tallied 13 boards (career high). His 3 blocks today, gives him a total of 18, for the season, second only to The Human Erase’s 26. Grand Larceny is the best way to describe the Chaos defense. They tallied 18 thefts. Pilferage would be an understatement. Na mean? Chaos wins its 4th in a row, 56-41.

In game 2, Quiet Storm got back on the winning track with a 67-62 win over team Hustle (2-6). Team Hustle has taken the biggest nosedive of this season. Their losing streak now stands at 6 games after starting the season 2-0. They were led by J-Rock (21 points, 8 rebounds, 7 dimes and 4 thefts). Scoop a.k.a. The Human Eraser, produced 16 points (0/5 from the stripe), 8 rebounds, 5 thefts, and 4 swats.

Team Hustle’s big man, Pitt Pull, finished with 12 points (4/8 from the stripe), 10 boards, 1 assist and 1 block. They out rebounded the Quiet Storm 41-25, but the difference maker was free throws. Team Hustle shot 10/21 from the stripe. Quiet Storm went 9/14. In a 5 point loss, 11 missed free throws equals a check uncashed. You’ll regret not getting that money. Feel me?

Quiet Storm has a balanced attack. The Phenom led the way with 21 points (5/7 from the stripe), 6 rebounds, 5 dimes and 5 thefts. Scrappy finished with a season high, 18 points (4 treys) and Nasty Nas tallied 14 points (8 in the 3rd quarter), 4 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block. The Quiet Storm outscored team Hustle 24-13 in the 3rd quarter, after team Hustle led 26-25 at the half.

Keep Ballin,


MannofStat
Copyright © 2012 by Leroy Elwood Mann