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