Lebronze Divison, which started as the division where players can develop their skills, has turned into the new Gold Division. Teams such as Lights Out and Lebronze Divison champs, Bullies, have stacked up their team in order to try and win a championship. What happened to having fun and not caring whether you win or lose? People are hungry for that trophy even if it’s in the lowest division.

Things to watch

Ryan Rulloda. He probably has the biggest mouth in the league. This is a warning that if you lose to this guy, you will not hear the end of it. So make sure you come to play against Boos.

Speaking of things to watch, stats-keepers, please watch the game logs and don’t let anyone see it. We all remember what happened last season when Rulloda & Co. wanted to see the game log after the game.

Luke Montilla. Can we get another music video from this guy??

Preseason Power Rankings

1. Thrillers- They’ve played together for many seasons and it shows in their chemistry. They are the team to beat.

2. Mint Condition- They went from laughing stock to cream of the crop.

3. Lights Out- Have 2 former Gold Division MVP’s on the team yet they still can’t get it done. Is it the 626’ers curse all over again??

4. Boxed Out- Big man Jordan Call is a beast and it doesn’t look like anyone can stop him in this division.

5. Boos- Ended last season 5-1, just missing out on the championship game. Will they keep on winning or will someone be able to shut Ryan Rulloda up?

6. Ninja Turtles- GM Efehi Ogbebor loves picking up players from Chino Hills 24. If you play there, beware of Grimace lurking around.

7. Dipset- They have a good team but lack motivation. They would rather go to Vegas and lose a couple games than win a chip.

8. The Fallen- James Santillan is a fouling machine. Can he stay in the game long enough to help his team?

 9. Assassins- Rod Ching has taken over the franchise. Does this mean the slow demise of Assassins?

10. Gang Bang DT- What does AJ have up his sleeve this season? Hanz must know something I don’t  know about ranking them #4.

11. Justice League- GM Leomar Cachola is hoping a name change will help change their fortunes. Did he make some moves during the offseason or will it be the same ol’ team.

12. Elements- They are the reason Lebronze was first built. Look for them to full court press the whole game

13. Pharcyde- Some of the rowdiest fans in the division. Will they be able to get back to their winning ways?

14. Still Fly- This team got it right putting together a team that is worthy of the division. They may not be good but they have a good time.

“TRIPLE THREAT: FINISHES PERFECT SEASON”

WOMEN’S DIVISION

CHAMPIONSHIP

 (1) Triple Threat  vs. (2) TNT

A year after living in the shadows of former Champions Lady Air, Triple Threat claimed the Women’s Division Championship by beating TNT, 48-44. Without GM Richelle Najera, TNT was powerless in the post as Triple Threat emerged victorious behind Finals MVP Virginia Vasquez.

PG Virginia Vasquez led all scorers with 11 points, 7 assists, and 2 steals. Leslie Ross stepped up hitting 3 three-pointers in a row at one point in the 1^st half and she finished with 12 points and 4 rebounds. GM Elizabeth Skiles added 8 points and 4 rebounds while Kim Nakamura finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds. Former MVP Samantha Cardeno was a non-factor in the scoring column but made her contributions in the rebounding category grabbing 6 boards.

TNT used a 8-0 run to cut the lead, 33-30 after falling behind 28-18. Ella Rodriguez, their best player, finished with 10 points and 8 rebounds while Veronica Santa Ana finished with 16 points. Courtney Tolentino finished with 10 points while GM Richelle Najera was MIA.

TNT showed up with a player no one has seen before and she was not allowed to play. A player is allowed to participate in the Playoffs as long as she plays 2 games in the Regular Season.

“TRIPLE THREAT: OUR TURN”

WOMEN’S DIVISION

SEMIFINALS

(2) TNT vs. (3) Sharp Shooters

Sharp Shooters played against a 4-player team in TNT but was TNT over their heads? Why would you risk getting eliminated from the Playoffs, playing with just 4 players in an elimination game? Fortunately, it was enough for TNT as the advance to the Finals with a 62-56 win.

Ella Rodriguez played like an MVP scoring 19 points and grabbing 10 rebounds for a double-double. She grabbed 4 steals and blocked 2 shots to lead all players while GM Richelle Najera finished with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Lani Agsalud finished with 8 boards and 8 points while Courtney Tolentino added 15 points and 7 rebounds.

Sharp Shooters were led by Lauren Cudany who finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Leslie Andal scored 8 points while GM Nicole Mitani knocked down 3 three-pointers and finished with 6 points.

TNT advances to the Finals where Triple Threat awaits.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
CHAMPIONSHIP RECAP
GOLD DIVISION

“New Mexico’s Revenge”

GOLD DIVISION

CHAMPIONSHIP

(1) Outlawz vs.  (3) Kings of Krunk

Could newly-named MVP David Munoz lead #1 seed Outlawz to their first ever Gold Division Championship? Kings of Krunk, last season’s Finalist, considered the trip to the Finals a failure should they walk away empty-handed. A few days after not getting drafted, would “New Mexico” Jonathan Gibson unleash a flurry on his opponents?

Gibson was unstoppable with 6 three-pointers and 3 assists as he led Kings of Krunk to their first Gold Division Championship. Gibson knocked down 3 three-pointers in the first 2 minutes and ended the game with a game-high 31 points. Amos Battle added 24 points and 2 rebounds while C Andrew Glynn led KOK with 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. As spectacular as Gibson and Battle were, the Outlawz defense was superb and the game was closer than what the box score displayed.

“Most of Kings of Krunk’s shots were from the perimeter and Outlawz allowed only 10 points in the paint,” said a league analyst. “They weren’t intimidated and they made it difficult for Krunk to score easy buckets.”

Marlon Parrales was hot from long distance in the 1^st half knocking down 4 three-pointers and he finished with 5 three’s and 17 points. MVP David Munoz led the game with 6 assists and 3 steals while George Parrales scored 19 points and 2 steals. Fernando Ruiz finished with 3 three-pointers hitting most of his 3’s down the stretch for Outlawz.

The biggest lead in the 1^st half was 37-29 in favor of Kings of Krunk. Outlawz would rally behind George Parrales’ three-pointers and in the 2^nd half both teams traded 3-pointers down the stretch. Both teams combined for 16 three-pointers as Finals MVP Jonathan Gibson led the game with 6 three-pointers. Kings of Krunk has already registered for Platinum Division.

GOLD DIVISION

SEMI-FINALS

(1) Outlawz vs.  (5) Green Light District

Without their Rookie of the Season in Terrell Langston, Green Light District fell apart as Outlawz advance to the finals with a 66-52 win.

Green Light District SF Imari Henderson came out firing as he led GLD with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Dejon Thorpe finished with 16 points and led the team with 4 assists and 8 rebounds. GM DJ Jones struggled from the field while Dung Dang scored 2 three-pointers and 10 points. The team suffered from a lack of ball movement and their shot selection was questionable.

“They weren’t expected to get this far but as a second-season team, they could pretty much call this season a success,” said a league analyst.

Eddie Sandoval scored 20 points and led Outlawz with a double-double, 15 rebounds. Fernando Ruiz added 6 rebounds and 10 points while Marlon Parrales scored 16 points and 3 assists. George Parrales led Outlawz with 4 assists while newly named MVP David Munoz finished with 12 points and 3 assists.

(3) Kings of Krunk vs. (15) Upper Hand

The game was closer than what many anticipated as Kings of Krunk out-last Upper Hand, 78-67. Shadon Knight started the game with 7 straight points as Kings of Krunk narrowed their lead by tying the game at 40 before halftime.

Shadon Knight finished with 29 points and 13 rebounds while Larry Moronez added 9 points and 2 boards. Jason Fielder scored 8 points while Jimmy Ormiston added 7 points and 2 rebounds. Uzoma Kalu struggled to put up numbers in the points column but led Upper Hand with 3 assists.

Amos Battle, former www.superstarbasketball.org cover boy, finished with 23 points and 7 rebounds while Jonathan Gibson led the team with 6 assists and 3 steals. The former New Mexico star finished with 5 three-pointers and 22 points while Christopher Lacy added 10 points for West Covina team Kings of Krunk.

“Kings of Krunk were expected to get back to the Finals while Upper Hand took it as far as they could,” said a league analyst. “Upper Hand tries to fly under the radar but we know how good their roster really is, they were expected to get this far.”

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND RECAP
By: Hanz Jimenez
Writer

“Fatal Four”

Flava vs. Warriors
DIAMOND DIVISION

Summary: Former Diamond Division Champions, Warriors, showed up with 4 players for a Championship Game (yes, a Championship Game). Defending Champions, Flava, took no chances, gave Warriors the respect they deserve and played them like they had a full roster. The result was a 79-47 rout with Warriors tapping out with 5:22 left. While Flava are giants amongst men, Dwayne Gaines was above and beyond earning his 2nd Finals MVP (total of 3 for career) on Championship Weekend.

No One Else Comes Close: For the past two seasons, Flava has dominated both the Diamond and Platinum Division. No team comes close to un-seating the 2-time Champions and GM Mario Thompson has his team in place to dominate this Summer. Hall of Famer Kenneth Ubom now has the most championships in Superstar Basketball with 7 Championships while GM Mario Thompson now has 5 Championships. How intimidating is Flava in recent seasons? No one wants to play them and teams are dropping out of the Diamond Division just to avoid Flava.

What’s Next For Warriors: GM Andrew Knox was so upset at his team’s lack of commitment that he vowed not to bring back the franchise next season. Relics will return to Platinum Division, however, GM Andrew Knox feels that Flava will likely win another Championship so what’s the point in coming back to Diamond Division? What gave it away?

GM Andrew Knox: “I know I’m a Hall of Famer and all but can I play in Gold next season? I just want to play.”

When the league’s top athletes are dropping out of the elite division because they can’t beat one team, they are pretty much admitting that they can’t beat Flava. Will any team register for Diamond next season? Why are we re-iterating this? Normally teams are up to the challenge of facing other teams but its never happened like this.

The Numbers:  Flava – GM Mario Thompson, 10 assists, 2 steals; Finals MVP Dwayne Gaines, 7 three-pointers, 23 points, 4 steals; PG Ray Hong, 4 three-pointers, 12 points; Aesh Dabbas, 16 points, team-high 8 rebounds; Kenneth Ubom, 14 points.

Warriors – Hall of Famer Andrew Knox, 26 points, 6 rebounds; La Salle Thomas, team-high 14 rebounds, 11 points, James Acevado, 3 assists, 2 steals.

CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND RECAP
By: Hanz Jimenez
Writer

“Over-Achievers”

Flava-4-Life vs. Infamous
PLATINUM DIVISION

Summary: Infamous PG Moy Ulloa scored 22 of the team’s 41 points but it wasn’t enough as Flava 4 Life beat Infamous, 62-41. Flava 4 Life built on a 30-20 halftime lead as Infamous struggled without sharp-shooter Calvin Smith III.

No One Else Comes Close: Pre-season predictions had Relics matched-up against Flava 4 Life in the Finals but Infamous got hot at the right moment and took care of business against #2 Relics and former Gold Division Champions, Primetime. League analysts felt that even if Relics had a full roster against undefeated team, Flava 4 Life, there was no stopping Flava and the result would have been no different.

What’s Next For Infamous: The Diamond and Platinum Division traditionally saw two of the best teams face off in the Finals but this season, Infamous threw the norm out of the window. Platinum Division is booming once again while Diamond Division is struggling to find teams to compete against Flava. Will Platinum Division be the popular division next season over-taking Gold Division? Infamous went as far as they could this season but a solid bench should be GM Thomas Staunton’s next priority. They need to keep Ulloa on the team and he made like Rajon Rondo and used these Playoffs as his coming-out party. He broke down Relics PG James Acevado on a cross-over last week and this week, he had Flava F Shaun Gonzalez back-peddling for 10 feet before re-gaining his balance.

The Numbers:  Flava 4 Life – MVP Dwayne Gaines, team-highs of 5 assists, 7 rebounds and 4 steals; Kenneth Ubom 15 points, 4 rebounds; Cory Ortiz, 11 points, 6 rebounds; GM Mario Thompson, 5 points, 2 steals.

Infamous – Moy Ulloa, 22 points, 3 steals, 2 assists; Mike Mehana, 7 rebounds; Ron Atmore, 6 rebounds, Troy Beverly, 8 points, 8 rebounds.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFF PREVIEW
DIAMOND & PLATINUM DIVISION

“ENTER THE HALL”

DIAMOND DIVISION

 (1) Warriors vs. (3) Flava

Here we go again.

Warriors vs. Flava. Flava vs. Warriors. Both teams have dominated the last 2 years in Superstar Basketball and the match-up will feature 3 Hall of Fame inductees. Who will lead his team to a Championship to end Year 4?

Will it be veteran Hall of Famer Andrew Knox? Call him Jerry West since he is the only player to garner Play of the Week accolades after a loss. Since he hates the Lakers and his favorite team is the Chicago Bulls, we’ll compared him to #33 Scottie Pippen. He’s a tenacious defender who can block shots, rebound, and play solid defense on the block and perimeter. As of late, he’s been known to give more facials than (insert dirty joke here) and Andrew Knox has arguably become the league’s best in-game dunker.

Can Hall of Famer Kenneth Ubom lead Flava to another Championship? On most teams, Ubom would be the go-to scorer, the alpha-dog of the squad, the team’s undisputed leader but that’s hardly the case with Flava. Last season when Ubom won his first Diamond Division Finals MVP, the distribution of points were spread out evenly and the MVP could have gone to 4 different players. It’s no insult Mr. Ubom, we’re just saying there’s a lot of talent on the squad and everyone is doing their job. His favorite team is the Lakers and most league analysts would probably compare him to Elgin Baylor. He has a great variety of shots, he’s not known for his hang time, but he’s strong as hell and will take you to the rack.

Can Hall of Famer Terrence Martin make a surprise appearance? Word on the street is he’ll be late and Warriors were trying to push the game past 9 p.m. Will T-bone compromise whatever he’s doing for the sake of the Warriors franchise? He proved he was the x-factor when Warriors defeated Flava for the first time this season. The following week, his absence resulted in a Warriors loss with sharp shooters Cisco Acevado and Gary Beaird missing the league’s #1 playmaker. He makes everyone better around him and his intimidating presence has produced Championships for his team. It’s not a stretch to compare him to Magic Johnson since Mr. Martin has 5 Championships, only on different teams. (#1 Stunners, Relics, Underdawgs, B3 Sports, Buckets).

“COOKIE MONSTER”

PLATINUM DIVISION

 (1) Flava 4 Life vs. (7) Infamous

It doesn’t look well for #7 seed Infamous with the Defending Champions, Flava 4 Life, proving they’re virtually unstoppable during the first half of the year. Their past Championship runs include Championships in both Winter and Spring Season. Can the Champs repeat this pattern?
Winter 2009, Diamond Division: Champions
Spring 2009, Diamond Division: Champions

Winter 2010, Diamond Division: Champions
Winter 2010, Platinum Division: Champions
Spring 2010, Diamond Division: vs. Warriors?
Spring 2010, Platinum Division: vs. Infamous?

GM Mario Thompson wants to leave his mark in Superstar Basketball before he retires and he is two wins away from winning four Championships in a span of two seasons. The 5-time Champion (one won with Gold Division LA United) has been the defensive anchor for Flava 4 Life and last week, the team steamrolled through the competition beating the likes of Bell City Stars and Flight School. Flava 4 Life was 8-0 in the Regular Season with GM Mario Thompson claiming GM of the Season honors for the undefeated feat. Dwayne Gaines, reigning Finals MVP, averaged 18.2 ppg while Kenneth Ubom averaged 16.4 ppg. Their leading rebounder was Gaines and he averaged 8.6 rpg. The team plays as a unit and they’re most dangerous when they’re trailing since no lead is safe against Flava 4 Life.

“We’ve seen the team come back from deficits and they never give up,” said a league analyst. “They’re tenacious defenders and they’re led by the incomparable Mario Thompson who led the division in steals (28).”

Infamous finished with a 3-5 record and the #7 seed Infamous surprised both #2 Relics and former Gold Division Champions, Primetime. PG Moy Ulloa averaged 8.0 ppg, 2.4 apg in the Regular Season and had some of the best highlights last week. Relics PG James Acevado is one of the division’s top defenders and most spectators were shocked when Ulloa dropped him to the floor with a cross-over. When Ulloa drove to the basket, he would usually set up open shooters Calvin Smith III (14.4 ppg) and Ron Atmore. The Center led the division in blocked shots with 8 and he averaged 9.8 ppg. GM Thomas Staunton has to be delighted with his team going to the Finals especially after Primetime almost stole the game last week. Primetime Rashad Martin had a halfcourt buzzer-beater attempt rim out as Infamous snuck in to the Finals.

Which team will take this one? There’s too much history against Infamous and GM Mario Thompson gets hungrier with each Championship. Normally, players are content with winning with their first chip but Thompson made like the Cookie Monster and he won’t stop until he gets to the Hall of Fame. If Calvin Smith III is hitting every shot he takes like last week, Infamous will make this interesting.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFFS RECAP
GOLD DIVISION

“New Mexico’s Revenge”

GOLD DIVISION

QUARTERFINALS

(3) Kings of Krunk vs. (6) Fontucky Unicorns

This could have been the Championship Game as both team matched each other, speed vs speed, power vs. power. In the end, “New Mexico” Jonathan Gibson was too much as Kings of Krunk defeat Fontucky Unicorns, 63-58.

Gibson scored 30 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead all scorers in scoring. Amos Battle complemented Gibson with 15 points and 7 rebounds while Christopher Lacy added 10 points and grabbed 7 boards. Lacy played just 1 game in the season but showed up when Buckets beat them via forfeit on Week 8.

BK Agu finished with 9 points and 9 rebounds while Malcolm added 9 boards and 16 points. Marcus Angeles connected for 10 points and 6 boards while Jamal finished with 14 points and 2 steals.

What Awaits in the Semifinals? Upper Hand has had a Cinderella run in these Playoffs but “New Mexico” awaits in the next round. After getting snubbed last Thursday, expect Jonathan Gibson to exert all his energy on the court against Upper Hand.

(10) Blitzburgh vs. (15) Upper Hand

First it was a 9-0 run by Upper Hand, then Blitzburgh countered with a 7-0 run to bring the game, 18-14. Upper Hand would rally with another 9-0 run in the 2^nd half and many wondered if Blitzburgh could respond? Upper Hand, with chips on their shoulder and GM Danny Medina playing the “Us against the world” theme advance to the next round as Blitzburgh falls, 60-52.

All Star Chris Epps knocked down several 3-pointers (4) to lead Blitzburgh and he finished with 20 points and 5 assists. Center Mike Epps added 3 steals and 14 points while Janel Wilson tallied 6 points and 4 rebounds. With the Rock coming back next season, many are wondering if Wilson would stay with Blitzburgh.

”He’s a better fit with Blitzburgh,” said a league analyst. “It was only his first season there but Mike Epps is their go-to scorer and Wilson is a beast when he’s playing defense. Their length and their chemistry improved this season, why would you go back to The Rock?”

Uzoma Kalu finished with 12 points while Shadon Knight led the team with 3 assists and 7 steals. Jason Fielder finished with 16 points and 6 rebounds while David West knocked down 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.

”I see what you’re doing with Upper Hand,” said a Kings of Krunk player. “You put them down, they respond with a huge game. Do us a favor and blow their heads up in the previews.”

What Awaits in the Semifinals? Per Request – Kings of Krunk: Shadon Knight is the greatest PF of our generation. His ability to dunk, grab every rebound, and play suffocating defense makes him the player that he is today. Some would say he’s a Diamond Division MVP and when you look at the record books, he has already checked that off his list. Been there, done that. Even with 50 percent effort, Knight can dominate the opposition and Kings of Krunk won’t have an answer for him. Uzoma Kalu is the Magic Johnson (tries not to barf) of our era. His dazzling passes are mind boggling and even Terrence Martin would envy the kid’s game. He is the Chuck Norris of no-look passes, he doesn’t look away from the ball, rather, the whole court turns as he stares at the rock. Lastly, there’s Jason Fielder. Just step out of his why when you see him reach for the ball. It’s automatic that he’s grabbing the rebound, so why even bother?

(1) Outlawz vs. (9) Got Em

Both teams scored huge upsets in the 1^st Round but which team would advance to the Semifinals? With All Star Rahsaan Reyes suffering an injury in the 1^st half, Got Em fell to Outlawz, 75-69.

Outlawz jumped to an early 8-0 lead as Eddie Sandoval dominated the paint early in the contest. Sandoval finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 2 steals while C Eduardo Gonzalez added 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. MVP David Munoz logged 10 points and led the team with 5 assists while Fernando Ruiz logged a dozen points for Outlawz.

Kevin Valmonte kept Got Em in the game knocking down 6 three-pointers and finishing with 32 points. Hector McCain added 20 points while Jim Nguyen led the team with 6 assists. Steve Palma has been consistent for Got Em all season and he finished with 11 boards and 3 assists. This Got Em edition is one of the most resilient teams Valmonte has ever managed and Valmonte needs to do whatever it takes to retain his un-heralded defensive players in the off-season.

What Awaits in the Semifinals? Outlawz is a veteran team, a team that has dominated the Regular Season but has always stumbled on the second day of post-season competition. Green Light District has virtually played together for one season and Outlawz needs to play like they’re the veterans. GLD will make runs at them but Outlawz need to have composure in order to beat GLD in the Semis.

(5) Green Light District vs. (4) Dynasty

Disappointed after not showing up in the 1^st Round, GLD point guard Imari Henderson vowed to have his best game and he single-handedly took over for GLD. Finishing with 5 three-pointers, 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, Dynasty lost 66-64.

What went wrong for Dynasty, you ask. Countless turnovers and missed shots led to GLD leading late in the contest. C Jesse Romero (11 points, 6 assists, 7 rebounds) and Steve Croate (24 points, 10 rebounds) carried the team but at the 2 minute mark, they allowed GLD to penetrate at will and the two didn’t even bother to foul their opponent. A loose ball rimmed out and no one decided to jump at the ball as GLD converted the easy put-back. Dynasty played with just 5 players and having no bench in the Quarterfinals will surely give you the boot out of the Playoffs.

Fatigue played a huge factor but General Manager DJ Jones managed his team with success and in the Quarterfinals, they meet Outlawz. Terrell Langdon finished with 18 points while Dejon Thorpe added 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 8 points. Dung Dang knocked down 3 three-pointers and finished with 14 points.

What Awaits in the Semifinals? Can Imari Henderson carry his team every week? Can role players for GLD be the x-factor in the Semis against Outlawz? We’ll find out in the Semis on Sunday, 4 p.m.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFFS RECAP
GOLD DIVISION

“Surprise!! Upper Hand Upset Buckets”

GOLD DIVISION

 (2) Buckets vs. (15) Upper Hand

Azusa team Upper Hand plays better as an underdog and with all odds against them, Upper Hand had to rise to the challenge against former Gold Division Champions, #2 team Buckets. Could Upper Hand find it in themselves to beat the former 2-time Champions.

”They play better with a chip on their shoulder and every time Shadon Knight or Uzoma Kalu gets their butts kissed, they seem to play like they already won. You see their best when you look down at them and after reading the preview, it looks like they had enough motivation to score an upset.”

Upper Hand jumped to a quick 11-0 start led by fast and athletic Uzoma Kalu. Shadon logged 5 key steals in the 1^st half and he finished with 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Jason Fielder grabbed 6 boards while GM Danny Medina finished with 7 points and 5 rebounds. Laker Hater Medina has his team in position to be the Boston Celtics of these Playoffs and it just goes to show that the Regular Season doesn’t matter and any team can win the Championship.

Mike Jones, former Maryland star, finished with 13 points, 2 blocks, and 7 rebounds. Jones had the highlight of the day with a highlight dunk as former Slam Dunk Champion Uzoma Kalu looked on. Rashad Martin finished with 14 points and 8 rebounds while Andrew Hacker added 10 points and 10 rebounds. Buckets played without several key players in Olympian Tony Allmond and Jay-R Gomez.

What went right/wrong?  Buckets were successful in the past because of their team chemistry and everyone knew their role. Without their core, Buckets were beatable and Upper Hand proved that. Tony Allmond doesn’t score much but his tenacity on the boards has been key for Buckets all season. The team was also missing a 3-point threat in um… Jay-R Gomez.. and who knows how different the result would have been had their 3-point assassin shown up.

 (1) Outlawz vs. (16) Wedashitudaflys

Once again, Wedashitudaflys couldn’t figure out how to beat Outlawz as Weda loses for the second week in a row against #1 team Outlawz. Outlawz outlast Wedashitudaflys, 66-59.

Eduardo Gonzalez, Outlawz Center, finished with 6 blocks, 7 rebounds and 5 points. Limited to foul trouble, Eddie Sandoval stepped up and finished with 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Newly named MVP David Munoz finished with 12 points, 3 assists and 2 steals.

Dwayne Gained led the team with 3 three-pointers and 11 points. His 3 assists was a team-high and the team combined for just 8 dimes. Richard Ramirez scored 12 points and grabbed 4 rebounds while C Rene Medina added 13 points and 2 steals. Bear knocked down a team-high 16 points and 6 rebounds.

What went right/wrong?  Veteran All Star Alex “Bear” Ivezaj allowed officials to affect his game and rightfully so. A non-call in the 1^st half had Bear’s cheeks bloodied and this was a very physical game as both teams combined for 34 free throws. The length of Outlawz too much and after being called chokers for the past 2 seasons, Outlawz were too motivated to let this gone get away.

 (3) Kings of Krunk vs. (14) Black Ballin

Jonathan Gibson knocked down 4 three-pointers in a row and “New Mexico” finished with 7 three-pointers and 36 points. Kings of Krunk jumped to a 37-21 halftime lead and never looked back as Kings of Krunk advanced to a 77-69 win over Black Ballin’.

Krunk put together a 15 point run early in the 1^st half and it turned out to be the key run in the ball game. Black Ballin responded with a 15-0 run to end the game as the team connected for 5 three-pointers in a row.

Black Ballin was led by All Star Deshawn Jamerson who finished with 7 three-pointers and 30 points. Keith Levingston added 6 three’s, 9 rebounds, and 25 points while Fred McCorey scored 6 points and grabbed 3 boards. The rookie team combined for 14 three-pointers while Kings of Krunk knocked down 10 three-pointers.

Amos Battle, former coverboy, led Krunk with 3 steals and finished with 11 rebounds. Battle scored 18 points while “Coach” Chris Encines logged 7 points and 4 assists. C Alex Sanchez grabbed 11 rebounds and finished with 7 points.

What went right/wrong?  There was really nothing Black Ballin could do. Kings of Krunk is a veteran team, they have a lot of talent, and they were last season’s finalist. They took a gamble with their 3-point game and it nearly worked as the team combined for 14 three-pointers.

 (4) Dynasty vs. (13) Lakers

With team chemistry affecting Lakers all season, many felt the drama surrounding the rookie team would be too much for GM Alex “La Mamba” Villasenor. A late rally had Lakers in position to take down a top team in the 1^st Round, could they capitalize on the opportunity?

Rookie Jerome (13 points, 2 steals) and La Mamba argued all game but the two can’t argue the fact that Lakers is actually a legitimate contender. They trailed 35-31 at halftime and lost in the 1^st Round, 57-61, against veteran team Dynasty. Will Lakers begin their SSBL dynasty any time soon?

”They’re not as bad as I thought they would be and they worked out a lot of their chemistry problems,” said a league analyst. “They didn’t have their best defender in Matt Lewis, who knows and their Center (Orlando Williams) was MIA.”

La Mamba knocked down 4 three-pointers and finished with 24 points. PF Adrian Eddington returned to the team and finished with 9 points and 5 rebounds. C Mike Nino led the team with 4 steals and finished with 9 points and 6 boards.

Dynasty was led by PG Thomas Cruz and he finished with 24 points, 2 steals and 5 boards. All Star Jesse Romero led Dynasty with 6 assists while PF Steve Croate led the team with 12 rebounds and 3 steals. GM Ken Ngarayawongse scored 7 points and grabbed 5 boards as the team advanced to the Quarterfinals for the first time in very, very, very long time.

What went right/wrong?  Lakers jumped to an early 6-0 lead and 3-pointers was the key for Lakers. We’ve seen La Mamba exit the 1^st Round early for the past 3 seasons but those games have always been close. The team has a trio of players you can build on but the rest are somewhat bench role players at the most. If the team can show composure instead of yelling at each other, would the result have been different? Dynasty can trail by as many as 20 points and you won’t see PG Thomas Cruz of SG Bryan Buenaventura panic. Can Lakers learn from their recent loss?

 (5) Green Light District vs. (12) Bad News Ballers

Green Light District, pissed off about not getting their full due, scored a huge upset over Bad News Ballers with a 68-58 win.

”Seriously though, when are you gonna write good things about us,” asked Green Light District PG Imari Henderson.

”You guys haven’t done anything,” explained a league analyst. “Besides, you guys play better when you’re hungrier.

Terrell Langston finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 2 blocks to lead Sophomore team, Green Light District. Former Gold Division Champion Dung Dang finished with 11 points while Justin Efren scored 8 points and dished 4 assists. GM DJ Jones led the team with 4 assists while Dejon Thorpe finished with 14 points.

All Star Jonathan Spaniol finished with 20 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks while GM Kameron Johnson scored 8 points, 3 assists, and 2 blocks. Injury prone Kenny Ali logged 18 points and 3 steals while Frankie Sanchez led the team with 5 dimes.

What went right/wrong?  You can’t expect to show up with a 4-team line-up on Week 8 and expect to do damage in the Playoffs, Bad News Ballers. Green Light District’s core has been virtually together for one season but they know their roles and they show up week after week. Both teams have talent but once again, team chemistry played a huge factor in Green Light District’s upset.

 (6) Fontucky Unicorns  vs. (11) Trinicousins

“Was it Fontucky Unicorns or Fon-sucky?” joked a league analyst.

Fontucky Unicorns were rattled by the Trinicousins crowd and as expected, they had a tough time playing against the 6^th man. Their size and athleticism eventually prevailed as former LeBronze Champions Trinicousins lose, 68-58.

DJ Gabriel led Triniciousins with 8 rebounds while Ryan Basco finished with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Charles Trinidad scored 9 points while Chris Capinia added 10 points and 2 steals.

A week after BK Agu took down Trinicousins’ SG steals record (9 steals), Agu finished with 9 rebounds and 22 points. Malcolm added 24 points and 4 rebounds while Jamal scored 11 points and grabbed 2 rebounds.

What went right/wrong?  This could have been disastrous for Fontucky Unicorns because it was their game to lose. They have too much talent to lose to Trinicousins and the former LeBronze Champions showed a lot of heart by not giving up. It just goes to show Family > Team > Individuals.

 (7) -_- vs. (10) Blitzburgh

For the second season in a row, -_- falls in the 1^st Round as Blitzburgh advanced with a 72-67 win.

-_- played with just 4 players all game and what GM Jordan Ramos needs to address is the team’s availability. Three other Playoff teams usually play in the evening and moving their -_- 1^st Round game at night would be biased towards -_-. Next season, Ramos needs to find players willing to play in the morning and the Platinum Division Gunnaz would be a perfect forum for him to find his players.

Baylon led the team with 7 three-pointers and 34 points while Chaz McCall led the team on the boards with 10 rebounds and 3 points. Former MVP Jordan Ramos logged 9 points and 2 steals but fouled out in the last 20 seconds as -_- were DQ’d (only had 3 players).

Center Mike Epps finished with 19 points and 13 rebounds while PG Chris Epps finished with 6 three-pointers and 24 points. Oscar Sosa added 16 points while Danny Ceniceros finished with 8 points and 2 boards.

What went right/wrong?  Attendance is a must! We don’t want to sound like a high school teacher but you saw what happened when no one shows up.

 (8) Brotherhood vs. (9) Got Em

Got Em showed up late and Brotherhood did the right thing by not adding 14 penalty points to their tally. With only $35 ref fees, Brotherhood claimed they gave Got Em the win as the Riverside team falls, 63-51 to Got Em.

Kevin Valmonte finished with 4 three-pointers, 27 points and 4 steals while Rahsaan Reyes added 22 points. Jim Nguyen led the team with 6 assists while Valmonte grabbed a team-high 8 rebounds. Got Em used a 10-0 run at the end of 2^nd half to take the lead, 40-39.

Brotherhood was led by LeShawn Miller who finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists. GM Alex Somesla added 6 points and 4 rebounds while Dwayne Cross finished with 7 rebounds and 7 points. Raul Servin connected on a buzzer beating 3-pointer to end the 1^st half, 32-22.

”Most of our guys have Father’s Day things to go to, I don’t know if we’ll have enough in our second game,” said Somesla, pre-game. “Not to take anything away from Got Em but we only brought 35 for our only game of these Playoffs.”

What went right/wrong?  For Brotherhood, it was Father’s Day. This was a game they gave away and Valmonte is still disputing that.

”I know we beat them, fair and square, they’re just saying that because they lost,” said Valmonte, after we burst his bubble.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFF RECAP
PLATINUM DIVISION

“INFAMOUS UPSET RELICS & PRIMETIME”

SEMIS

PLATINUM DIVISION

(6) Primetime vs. (7) Infamous

Primetime had two chances to beat Infamous on buzzer beaters but both attempts fell short as Infamous advance to the Finals against Flava 4 Life.

Primetime MVP candidate Rashad Martin saw his 40 foot heave rim out as Infamous let out a loud sigh of relief. It was a re-do of the last play as stats-keepers experienced a clock malfunction and officials ordered the last play to be re-done.

Donald Colford finished with 25 points and 8 rebound while C Rob Da Silva added 13 rebounds 14 points. Martin added 10 points and 9 rebounds while Ricky Tran finished with 8 points.

Infamous didn’t grab the lead until the 9 minute mark and it was Calvin Smith III’s lay-up that gave Infamous the 2 point lead, 61-59.

Juan Martinez scored on numerous fast breaks and he finished with 24 points and 3 rebounds. GM Thomas Staunton led the team with 8 rebounds while Ron Atmore finished with 4 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Moy Ulloa scored 11 points and dished 2 assists.

 (1) Flava 4 Life vs. (4) F1RSTCLASS

FIRSTCLASS no-showed as Flava 4 Life automatically advanced to the Championship Game.

“UNPREDICTABLE 1ST ROUND”

1^ST ROUND

PLATINUM DIVISION

 (1) Flava 4 Life vs. (8) Bell City Stars

It was a historic win for Flava 4 Life as They held Bell City Stars to just 7 points in the 1^st half. Flava 4 Life, undefeated in the Regular Season, advanced to the Semis with a 63-33 win.

Flava 4 Life started the game on a 13-0 run as Gemayal McBride led the team with 5 assists and 8 rebounds. Jamaal Hall added 19 points and 8 rebounds while Dwayne Gaines finished with 10 rebounds and 15 points. Kenneth Ubom finished with 12 points and 2 steals while GM Mario Thompson finished with 5 rebounds and 2 steals.

“We don’t know how to break a press,” yelled GM Matt Mosley after Flava 4 Life harassed their guards for most of the first half.

Mosley finished with 10 points and 5 rebounds but was most effective in the first 2 minutes of the 2^nd half. Paul Anderson added 10 points and 6 rebounds while Leshawn Miller finished with 7 points and 4 rebounds.

(2) Relics vs. (7) Infamous

Relics showed up with just 5 players, a risky gamble for the #2 seed as they faced the #7 seed Infamous. Does the former Platinum Division Champions, Relics, have enough to defeat the Sophomores, Infamous?

Last season, it was Relics that took out Infamous but this season, Infamous returned the favor by taking out Relics in the 1^st Round of the Playoffs. The result was a 84-78 win for Infamous, an upset that many saw coming in the first 10 minutes of the game.

“You could see it from their body language, they weren’t into the game,” said a league analyst.

Cisco Acevado fought hard for his shots and he finished with 9 three-pointers and 46 points. Hall of Famer Andrew Knox scored 12 points while Gary Beaird finished with 9 rebounds and 5 points. La Salle Thomas scored 13 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while James Acevado grabbed 2 steals and finished with 3 assists. Without their set up man in Terrence Martin, Relics combined for 8 assists.

PG Moy Ulloa was spectacular from the field finishing with 22 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals. He had the play of the day with a lightning quick cross-over, a cross over that had James Acevado wiping the floor with his shorts. Most of Ulloa’s passes went to Calvin Smith III and he finished with 29 points and 3 three-pointers. Ron Atmore surprised the crowd with 4 three-pointers and 12 points. Atmore, having his best season in SSBL, was reliable in the post grabbing 17 rebounds while Troy Beverly finished with 8 boards and 8 points. Juan Martinez finished with 13 points while GM Thomas Staunton was a no-show for Infamous.

 (3) Team Nazo vs. (6) Primetime

Team Nazo, busy with Father’s Day and all, no-showed as Primetime automatically advanced to the Semifinals.

 (4) F1RSTCLASS vs. (5) Gunnaz

Victor Mitchell delivered a high-light alley-oop lob to Chris Thomas to end the 1^st half as F1RSTCLASS held the narrow lead, 41-35, to end the 1^st half. F1RSTCLASS held on for a 79-77 lead as Gunnaz lose to F1RSTCLASS in the 1^st Round.

Richard Busaka did his best to lead Gunnaz to the next round and Busaka made it rain by hitting 6 three-pointers in a row (25-26). GM Kassah Kantiok started a 12-0 run cutting the lead to single digits for Gunnaz. Former MVP Jordan Ramos finished with 10 points and 4 assists while Cal Poly Pomona Intramural 3-point shooting Champ, Osasu Oronsaye, finished with 6 three-pointers and 18 points. Ramos had one last chance for Gunnaz but missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer.

Chris Thomas, known for his defense, swatted 3 shots and led F1RSTCLASS with 11 rebounds and 22 points. Victor Mitchell finished with 20 points and 8 rebounds while David Marquez added 15 points and a game-high 6 assists. Mike Mejin finished with 17 points but made it difficult for F1RSTCLASS to finish the game as he missed 2 clutch free throws with :07 left in the ball game.

“It’s a good thing Jordan missed the game winner, otherwise Mike would have been the goat for F1RSTCLASS,” said a fan. “That was a close one!”

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFF PREVIEW
GOLD DIVISION

“OUTLAWZ STILL ON TOP”

GOLD DIVISION

 (1) Outlawz vs. (16) Wedashitudaflys

Wedashitudaflys made headlines in the post-season last season when they took down -_- in the 1^st Round of the Playoffs. Can they do it again this season.

MVP David Munoz averaged 17.4 ppg, 4.4 apg, 2.6 spg. He led Outlawz to a division-best 7-1 record but Outlawz has a reputation of choking in the Playoffs. Can Eduardo Gonzalez (17.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg) and Eddie Sandoval (16.8 ppg, 10.3 rpg) lead the team out of the 1^st Round?

Weda is led by Alex “Bear” Ivezaj and he averaged 20.9 ppg, 12.9 rpg this season. Dwayne Gaines averaged 11.8 ppg while Rene Medina averaged 11.6 ppg. They’re bigger than their opponents and they should slow the game down and play half-court basketball. Can Weda control the tempo?

Which team will take this one? Weda. LOL.

 (2) Buckets vs. (15) Upper Hand

Finishing with a 6-2 record, former two-time Gold Division Champs Buckets is expected to advance to the Finals. Can they overcome Upper Hand in the 1^st Round?

Mike Jones, former Maryland star, averaged 20.8 ppg and knocked down 21 three-pointers this season. GM Jonathan Wynn averaged a team-high 4.0 apg and his 14.3 ppg was scored mostly on the perimeter. Tony Allmond averaged a double-double 11.7 ppg, 11.0 rpg while Rashad Martin averaged 13.7 ppg. The team can shoot and they will get any shot they want against Upper Hand. Buckets can play hands tied behind their backs and they will most likely still beat Upper Hand.

Why so much hate on Upper Hand? Why is GM Danny Medina hating on the Lakers? Jokes aside, there’s a thin line between confidence and arrogance and several times this season, arrogance has gotten the best out of Upper hand. Don’t get us wrong, they are talented and they have players who can play ball. Shadon Knight averaged 21.8 ppg while Uzoma Kalu averaged 14.5 ppg. Jimmy Ormiston is a 3-point threat and he averaged 8.4 ppg. The team plays better when they have something to prove and when all odds are against them, they respond with a big game.

Which team will take this one? Upper Hand suffered too many mental lapses at the end of the Regular Season. What was once a promising season turned ugly as Upper Hand lost 2 straight games to finish with a 2-6 record. The Playoffs are different and if Upper Hand can get over themselves, they’ll have a strong showing against Buckets. If Dynasty can beat them, why can’t Upper Hand?

 (2) Kings of Krunk vs. (14) Black Ballin

Jonathan “New Mexico” Gibson averaged a team-high 38.0 ppg and he is expected to beat Black Ballin all by himself. Can Gibson beat black Ballin, 1-on-5?

Jokes aside, Amos Battle scored 19.0 in 4 games while Tony Demonaco (former MVP) averaged 12.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg. GM Ryan Rulloda led the team with 7 steals while Alex Sanchez and Andrew Glenn both blocked 3 shots apiece. Their defense doesn’t really matter because Gibson will most likely outscore Black Ballin all by himself.

BB was 2-6 and they were led by Deshawn Jamerson who averaged 19.5 ppg. Keith Levingston averaged 11.0 ppg while Aaron McCorey averaged 6.5 ppg. The rookies averaged 52.3 ppg collectively and their free throw shooting has been Rajon Rondo-like, 37.6%.

Which team will take this one? Black Ballin’ has accomplished something by simply getting there. Kings of Krunk, confident as they are, have already registered for Platinum Division next season. They’re not taking 2^nd place and a Championship this season is their only option. Kings of Krunk.

 (4) Dynasty vs. (13) Lakers

#2 seed team Dynasty over-achieved this season with a 6-2 record. MVP front-runner Jesse Romero averaged 20.6 ppg, 10.3 rpg while speedy guard Thomas Cruz averaged 14.1 ppg, 3.6 apg. GM Ken Ngarayawongse scored 11.9 ppg while Alex koo scored 17.7 ppg.

Lakers finished with a 3-5 record as “La mamba” Alex Villasenor led the team with 18.1 ppg. His 29 three-pointers was  team-high while PG Jerome knocked down 10 three-pointers. C Orlando Williams averaged 8.7 ppg, 9.5 rpg while Matt Lewis averaged 7.0 ppg in his return to SSBL.

Lakers surprised everyone on Week 8 by keeping pace with #1 team Outlawz. Dynasty also had a strong showing by beating Buckets last week. Despite losses on Week 8, both teams are confident they can make some noise in the Playoffs.

Which team will take this one? Dynasty. Lakers are a rookie team and they’ll play like a rookie team.

 (5) Green Light District vs. (12) Bad News Ballers

#5 team Green Light District finished with a 6-2 record while Bad News Ballers barely had a roster all season. Can BNB show up against Green Light District?

Imari Henderson will be playing against some former teammates when he faces BNB in the 1^st Round. The GLD PG averaged 14.4 ppg, 8.9 rpg while Terrell Langston led the team with 17.3 ppg. Dejon Thorpe scored 10.9 ppg while GM DJ Jones scored 5.9 ppg, 1.3 spg.

Bad News Ballers ended the season with a .500 record as former All Star MVP Jonathan Spaniol averaged 28.6 ppg, 10.1 rpg. Nick Santiago averaged 13.0 ppg while Kenny Ali scored 16.0 ppg in two games for the Rancho team.

Which team will take this one? Green Light District is expected to advance to the Final Four.

 (6) Fontucky Unicorns  vs. (11) Trinicousins

BK Agu recorded the first quadruple double in SSBL history last week against Bullets. Agu got his name in the record books with 10 steals and many say he’s not even Fontucky Unicorn’s best player. Will that much firepower, F.U. should be a Final Four team and their first victim could be Trinicousins. Malcolm is avearaged a team-high 33.5 ppg while Marcus Angeles averaged 15.0 ppg in 5 games.

Ryan Basco led Trinicousins in scoring with 18.4 ppg while PG Chris Capinia averaged 14.7 ppg, 3.3 spg. Christian De Silva averaged 10.8 ppg while Charles Trinidad averaged 8.9 ppg. Their x-factor will be C DJ Gabriel and he averaged 6.6 ppg, 8.1 rpg.

Which team will take this one? With acronyms F.U., it’s hard to imagine Fontucky Unicorns getting rattled in this match-up. F.U. has that killer instinct and it would be wise to choose them over the LeBronze Division Champions.

 (7) -_- vs. (10) Blitzburgh

Both teams are 5-3 and MVP runner-up Jordan Ramos needs to play all 40 minutes.

After playing just 32 minutes to record 22 assists last week, Ramos will need all 40 minutes to beat Blitzburgh. He’s gone on record to say his squad may only have 4 players and only AJ Baylon (19.1 ppg), Kevin Chow (10.0 ppg) and Chaz (5.5 ppg) will be available. Last season, they were upset in the 1^st Round after showing up with just 4 players against Wedashitudaflys.

The man of the hour, Mike Epps, leads Blitzburgh with 23.3 ppg, 9.0 rpg. All Star Chris Epps averaged 17.8 ppg while Brian Ceberio averaged 13.5 ppg. Danny Ceniceros averaged 7.5 rpg, 13.0 ppg while C Janel Wilson led the team with 3 blocks. Their size is tough to overcome and the speed Chris Epps and Josh Rendon provide gives the team some balance.

Which team will take this one? Both teams are 5-3 so an upset is a stretch. -_- will lose in the 1^st Round for the second time in a row.

 (8) Brotherhood vs. (9) Got Em

Both teams are 5-3 but it’s Got Em that has momentum after closing out the season with a 2 game winning streak.

Rahsaan Reyes averaged 26.2 ppg while GM Kevin Valmonte averaged 25.6 ppg. Steve Palma averaged 11.8 ppg and a team-high 14.3 rpg in 4 games for Got Em. The team rarely had a full roster this season but the duo of Reyes and Valmonte has been unstoppable – just ask Upper hand.

Leshawn Miller leads Brotherhood with 14.8 ppg, 13.6 rpg. GM Alex Somesla did a remarkable job working in several newbies in Stephen Reid (5.2 ppg) and Dwayne Cross (11.3 ppg) this season and both should pay-off down the stretch for Brotherhood. Veteran SG Mike Von Borstel averaged 11.9 ppg while Calvin Kavanaugh averaged 13.0 ppg. They need to focus on Got Em’s two best players and allow some of their weaker players to shoot, notably the other 3 players on the court.

Which team will take this one? If Got Em shows up with a full roster, Got Em should beat Brotherhood with a slight margin. Rahsaan Reyes has a history of coming up big in the Playoffs and he should lead Got Em past Brotherhood in the 1^st Round. Even if F Ryan Mangahas and F Jim Nguyen score just 2 points apiece, the scoring duo of Reyes and Valmonte has been unstoppable in the 2^nd half of the season.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

SPRING SEASON, SEASON 16
PLAYOFF PREVIEW
PLATINUM DIVISION

“ANYONE WANT TO PLAY US?”

PLATINUM DIVISION

 (1) Flava 4 Life vs. (8) Bell City Stars

GM of the Season Mario Thompson leads the defending Champions over 1-7 Bell City Stars. With Bell City Stars climbing up the standings after several teams were removed from the league, can Bell City Stars capitalize on the opportunity?

John Wright averaged a team-high 14.7 ppg while Paul Anderson averaged 10.5 ppg, 1.7 apg. GM Matt Mosley led the team with 16 three-pointers and he averaged 1.6 apg, a team-high. LeShawn Miller dominated in Gold Division all season but his Platinum Division play has been disappointing. He averaged 4.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg in Platinum but for Brotherhood, he averaged 14.8 ppg, 13.6 rpg. Is Platinum Division really that tough?

The defending Champions finished an undefeated season with a 8-0 record but won’t have an MVP coming out of their team. Kenneth Ubom averaged 16.4 ppg while Dwayne Gaines averaged a team-high 18.2 ppg. Both former Finals MVPs played in just 5 games this season and weren’t eligible for End of the Season Awards. Expect them to be fired up for the Playoffs.

Which team will take this one? We can already hear the whispers coming out of the Flava camp.

”How come no one got MVP from Flava? We were undefeated?”

In order for you to be eligible, you have to have played 6 games. Both Gaines and Ubom played in 5 games apiece. Expect Flava to use that as firepower and take it out on Bell City Stars.

(2) Relics vs. (7) Infamous

MVP Cisco Acevado averaged a division-high 31.1 ppg and his 54 three-pointers ranks 1^st in the Platinum Division. Will Cisco’s hot shooting streak continue in the Playoffs?

Terrence Martin averaged a division-high 6.2 apg while Cisco Acevado ranked 3^rd in steals with 13 this season. The former Champions finished with a 7-1 record and they are expected to be in the Finals with Flava 4 Life. Anything less is a failure and Relics knows this. GM Andrew Knox (10.6 ppg, 6.1 rpg) has done a stellar job in bringing in new players and Gary Beaird (11.0 ppg) and Bobby Kovach (26.3 ppg, 2.3 apg) have worked out quite nicely for Relics. The addition of new players hasn’t affected their team chemistry and the transition was so smooth, Relics founder Ernest Pablo would have approved of GM Knox’s move.

Infamous C Ron Atmore led the division with 8 blocks but can he block Relics from advancing to the next round? Mike Mehana averaged a team-high 20.0 ppg while Calvin Smith III averaged 14.4 ppg. Troy Beverly averaged 7.7 rpg while Moy Ulloa averaged 8.0 ppg.

Which team will take this one? Terrence Martin will be difficult to contain for Infamous and he should go off for Relics on both ends of the floor. Relics eliminated Infamous from qualifying for the Playoffs last season and Infamous needs to remember how close that game was on Week 8 (Winter 2010).

 (3) Team Nazo vs. (6) Primetime

The Former Champions take on the reigning Gold Division Champions, Primetime. Which former Championship team will advance to the next round?

Nazo finished the season with a 6-2 record as Damian Jones led the way with 17.8 ppg in 4 games. Willie Allen averaged 14.0 ppg while GM Jesse Romero scored 9.8 ppg in 4 games. The team is holding back for the Playoffs and with the exception of Romero, the team has been reluctant on playing in any other division. There’s no doubt they’re focused more than ever and if they get past Primetime, Relics/Infamous should be waiting for them in the Semis.

Primetime needs to run the floor and they need to push the tempo now more than ever. Nazo excels on the half court and Primetime is at a disadvantage since Nazo has the size advantage. Rashad Martin earned MVP honors with his stellar play and he averaged 19.0 ppg, 9.9 rpg. His 24 three-pointers and 9 blocks were all team-highs. Former Finals MVP Mark Davison averaged 14.9 ppg while Donald Colford averaged 19.8 ppg.

Who will take this one? With a full roster, Primetime has the size to compete with Nazo but it’s rare the team plays with all 10 players. Nazo likes to talk and get in their opponent’s heads. If Primetime can block that out and just focus on the game, Primetime should advance to the next round. League analysts feel Nazo is too physical and the veteran team should be able to control the tempo. Nazo, in a close game.

 (4) F1RSTCLASS vs. (5) Gunnaz

Both teams are a spin-off of Gold Division team, D-League. In a fitting Father’s Day match-up, both 5-3 teams, F1RSTCLASS and Gunnaz meet in the 1^st Round.

There was a time when GM Daniel Villanueva and Jeb Busbin (6.5 ppg, 3.8 rpg) played for D-League several seasons ago. When the duo returned in Gold Division, many expected the team to flop. Acquiring several role players, F1RSTCLASS soared above Gold Division and they have been a force in Platinum Division in their first season. Victor Mitchell averaged 16.0 ppg while Daniel Corrales averaged 16.1 ppg, 8.3 rpg. David Marquez scored 13.0 ppg while Chris Thomas led the team with 11 steals and 4 blocks.

Gunnaz has also surpassed expectations and former Gold Division MVP Jordan Ramos is in the midst of it all. The acquisition of the -_- PG was a surprise but it has worked out well for GM Kassah Kantiok (13.4 ppg, 2.1 apg, 10.7 rpg). Ramos averaged 18.6 ppg, 3.7 apg (2^nd in division) in his first season with Gunnaz. Osasu Oronsaye, the Cal Poly Pomona Intramural 3-pont Champion, averaged 15.4 ppg and his 25 three-pointers is a team-high. Riko Henderson only played in 3 games but averaged a team-high 20.0 ppg.

Which team will take this one? There’s plenty of offense between both teams and this one is all out war. This 4 vs 5 match-up will go to OT and we’re going with the safe pick – the team that was a spin-off from D-League will win the game. =)

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

“SAME OL’ FLAVA”

DIAMOND DIVISION

 (2) Taiwan Center vs. (3) Flava

Warriors dominated the Regular Season with a 6-2 record and after Tanaka was eliminated from qualifying in the Playoffs, Diamond Division was left with just 3 teams. Warriors has a bye while #2 team Taiwan Center takes on 4-4 team, Flava. The defending Champs lost 2 in a row to end the Regular Season, can they recover against Taiwan Center?

Taiwan Center is led by All Star Jimmy Miyasaka and he averaged 15.7 ppg, 94 points in his second season. He was efficient from the stripe hitting 20-of-24 free throws (83.3%) and has the team highs in 3-pointers (16), assists (14), and steals (8). Center Dae Han is averaged a team-high 17.8 ppg in 5 games and he led the team on the boards with 6.4 rpg. Billy Hofman averaged 10.5 ppg while Larry Tieu averaged just 5.3 ppg in 3 games. The team is known for their shooting and their resilience. No lead is safe and Taiwan Center has shown the ability to recover to bounce back from huge deficits.

Can the defending Champions reign supreme? Last year, the Champs went back-to-back by winning the 2009 Winter Championship and 2009 Spring Championship. After winning their third Diamond Division title last Winter, many feel that Flava will repeat this season mainly because of their defense. They average a stingy 5.4 spg and they are led by defensive point guard Mario Thompson. Hall of Famer Kenneth Ubom averaged a team best 12.0 ppg while Jamaal Hall averaged 11.0 ppg. Chico Anderson averaged 12.0 ppg and he averaged a team-high 5.8 rpg.

Who will take this one? Flava is the sentimental favorite and knowing that a free season is on the line, their guys should be laying it all on the line to advance to the Finals. They suffered from boredom in the Regular Season, quite understandable since Diamond Division started with only 4 teams. With everything on the line this week against Taiwan Center, expect Flava to apply their trademark defense against Taiwan Center. TC may have bested them in the Regular Season but that’s just the Regular Season. If the 2010 NBA Finals proved one thing, it’s that the Regular Season doesn’t mean anything, this is the Playoffs, expect both teams to gut it out with Warriors waiting for the victor in the Championship Round.

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+ Game Previews, recaps and write-ups are articles written by Superstar Basketball League Analysts.

2010 SPRING, SEASON 16
“How Much Will They Miss Trinicousins?”

By: Hanz Jimenez
Contributing Writer

Welcome to Season 16, LeBronze Division.  There’s NO Playoffs for LeBronze but once again, the division figures to be competitive yet recreational. The departure of Trinicousins figures to hurt the division initially since the team has the league’s loudest fan base. Which teams will step up and crowd the gym with rabid fans?    

Get Loud!

Dipset – They’ve been part of some of the craziest LeBronze Division rivalries and their fans know how to get loud. Their memorable battles against Trinicousins and Lights Out have been one for the ages but part of that success has a lot to do with sharp-shooter Walter Tamidles.  Founder Jim Nguyen warned everyone in the off-season to step their game up this season. How much will Tamidles’ departure hurt the team?

Boxed Out – They were the only team to beat LeBronze Division Champions Trinicousins last season. Not only did they beat them on the court but off the court, they had supportive fans that made the Week 7 match-up just as memorable as the Dipset-Trinicousins Rivalry.  Will Boxed Out consistently bring fans to their games?

Pharcyde  – GM Dale Basingat knows their fans only come out when the team is winning. It’s important for Dale & Co. to have their key pieces in Center Mike Arceo and shooter Kevin Bonifacio. When those two are missing, Pharcyde is beatable.

Krunk’d  – GM Ryan Rulloda is at his best when he’s loud, obnoxious, and annoying the other team. He can make it rain in the 1^st half but he needs to either play all 40 minutes or have another scorer who can help him score in the 2^nd half. A low post threat in the 2^nd half would help Krunk’d win some games.

Much Improved

Assassins – The addition of Center Tray Von Brown and veteran point guard James Bernardo made them a contender last season. They are the nostalgic favorite to take LeBronze this season. Will sharp-shooter Rodney Ching stay healthy?

Brand Nu – After their forgettable “ringer” situation, Brand Nu rebounded with a strong finish and league analysts feel they’ll be one of the top teams in LeBronze this season. Will Chris Ayo continue to make an impact in LeBronze?

D-League DT – GM Leomar Cachola finished the season with his first scoring title. Can he secure a second scoring title this season?

Much Improved

Bulls Bang-Gals – Bang-gals improved last season when they got rid of players that were detrimental to the team. Addition by subtraction is what GM Uno Dos calls it. Will they continue to run with just 6 players?

Lights Out – Every season, GM Victor Ng says they’ll make a run for the Championship but once they start losing games, Ng claims they’re just messing around. As long as Kevin Valmonte is on the roster, the trio of Valmonte, Ng, and Cyrus Regalado should make Lights Out a contender once again.

Thrillers – GM Danny Martinez suffered a hand injury when he thumb wrestled all of Jon Paras. He’ll make use of LeBronze by getting back into shape so look for Martinez to continually improve all season.

Game Bang – Jay Fernandez is the new GM and without Kuyahood this season, many are wondering if AJ Francisco is jumping ship to Game Bang this season.

2010 SPRING, SEASON 16
“Will The New Trend Continue?”

By: Hanz Jimenez
Contributing Writer

Welcome to Season 16, Gold Division.  In the previous 10 seasons, Gold Division has always been about the great wide open. The league’s most popular division, Gold Division, has always been about the unexpected. Any team could win the division but in n 2009, the Championship has gone to one of the two best teams in Gold Division.

Here’s a rundown of the Championship teams in Gold Division in 2009: 

Winter 2009 – #2 Buckets

Spring 2009 – #1 Underdawgs

Summer 2009 – #2 Buckets
Fall 2009 – #1 San Miguel

It’s about (Prime)time.

After dominating the Regular Season, the young team from Baldwin Park garnered a reputation of always choking in the Playoffs in the first day of competition. They were compared to a team that continually choked in the past (626’ers) and they were given the moniker, “The New Age 626’ers”. Out of nowhere, #5 team Primetime got the monkey off their backs and finally won the Gold Division Championship. Is Gold back to what it was before, a division where any team could win the Championship?
Get that monkey off your back

Outlawz – Here’s another team that has dominated the Regular Season but failed to advance deep into the Playoffs. Point guard David Munoz is one of the top point guards in Gold while Center Eduardo Gonzalez is one of the most versatile big men in the division. GM Fernando Ruiz and Eddie Sandoval are potent scorers and Outlawz will always be a contender in the Regular Season. Will this be the season Outlawz finally claim a Championship?

Got Em – Kevin Valmonte was the face of the 626’ers franchise and after experiencing several disappointing runs with 626’ers, Valmonte created his own team and underwent a franchise make-over several seasons ago. 626’ers / Got Em has never won a Championship and after 11 seasons in Gold, maybe it’s about time Valmonte drops LeBronze Division and focuses strictly on Gold.

Upper Hand – So they won a Tournament and finished as the Runner-up last Fall when they faced San Miguel Beermen in the Finals. They have the personnel to win a Championship but completely missed the Playoffs last season.

Kings of Krunk – They’ve been in the league for over a year and half now and GM Ryan Rulloda has become the league’s most favorite bad guy. When he’s not taunting other team’s fans, he’s hitting 3-pointers from 5 feet beyond the arc. His latest antic included a rule change that was specifically tailored for “New Mexico” Jonathan Gibson.

D-League – Pomona team D-League has been in the league for quite a while and they have produced some of the most successful spin-offs with teams Gunnaz and Flight School soaring in the Gold Division standings. Maybe D-League really is D-League…

Brotherhood – GM Alex Somesla has a trio of players he can rely on but the rest of veteran Riverside team has been a team of bench players, at best. Give credit to where its due, Somesla only picks up players that can play in his system and you’ll never see him sell out and pick up random players.

Back For More

Buckets – They were winning in Platinum so why bother coming back to Gold Division? The league isn’t upset although his former players who now play for Kings of Krunk are upset at GM Walter Tamidles for NOT registering the team in Platinum Division.

Stankonia – They won the Championship as San Miguel Beermen and many expected GM Dale Basingat to change the team back to SMB after playing last season as Encore. Will Stankonia, stink it up with their new name?

Trinicousins – They have the best fans in the league and the Reigning LeBronze Division Champions have a lot of teams requesting to play AGAINST team. Their Centers were big in LeBronze but in Gold, they figure to be under-sized. How will Trinicousins fare with bigger competition?

Bullets – The former Champs in LeBronze had a perfect season but last season, they failed to win 1 game. It’s not like they sucked, they were within striking distance for 6 of those games and they had a pattern of leading at halftime and losing their leads in the 2^nd half. How will GM Daniel Donato bounce back after a disappointing season?

Run and Gun

-_-  – Reigning MVP Jordan Ramos nearly broke the assists record last season but struggled on Week 8 against the team that won the Championship, Primetime. After playing with just 5 players  in the 1^st Round of the Playoffs, Ramos saw his team exit the Playoffs in opening round. Will his team hit the Sophomore wall  or will they continue to run all over the competition?

Blitzburgh  – All Stars Chris and Mike Epps form an unstoppable duo but their team lacks depth. Will they have a bench this season?

Bad News Ballers  – Kenny Ali leading the fast break with Kameron Johnson and Phrankie Sanchez spells trouble. The team is well rounded with Center Jonathan Spaniol dominating the paint. After winning All Star MVP, Spaniol looks like he’s ready to build on his accolades.

Wedashitudaflys  – They don’t really run the break and what they have is a 4-headed beast in the form of Center Rene Medina, Alex Ivezaj, Richard Ramirez, and Justin Killir. If they could add guards to the team that can run the break, they’ll be a well-rounded team.

Rookie Teams

Green Light District  – They’re not exactly a rookie team but GM DJ Jones will have a brand new roster in his second season. That’s how unsuccessful his first season was, he blew up the whole team in their first season.

Lakers  – After playing with Bullies for several season, Alex aka “La Mamba” brings his own team to Gold. He doesn’t look like he can play and he likes to hustle people by wearing a purple polo shirt to disguise his basketball skills. There’s no question he can play and he should finish the season on top of the 3-point category.

Blackballin’  – This is a team Kameron Johnson recommended and they’re mostly from the Inland Empire. They’ll open the season against Bad News Ballers.

Fontucky Unicorns  – GM Efehi Ogbebor completed the first perfect season with a Championship as the Association way back in Fall 2007. How will his Gold team fare this season?

WINTER 2010, SEASON XV
CHAMPIONSHIP  RECAP
GOLD DIVISION
“THE KIDS ARE ALL GROWN UP”

GOLD DIVISION FINALS

By: Hanz Jimenez

(5) Primetime vs. (6) Kings of Krunk

With two of the top 2 teams in Gold Division out in the Semifinals, the Championship was up for grabs between Baldwin Park team, Primetime and West Covina team, Kings of Krunk. There was no prior history between both teams and both teams were scrambling for game plans prior to the game.

“They have shooters who just shoot outside, they don’t utilize their bigs,” said Mr. Tamidles, offering advice to Krunk GM Ryan Rulloda, pre-game.

“They have those former Buckets players, we know what to do,” said GM Dung Dang of Primetime. “We’re no concerned with what they do, we’ll play our game.”

It was Primetime that came into the Finals with urgency as they ran all over Kings of Krunk with a 63-39 win. The plays for Primetime was simple, let their bigs grab the rebound and let their guards go to work by running the open floor. The team combined for 18 assists as Ricky Tran and Jose Saldana both passed for 5 assists apiece. Center Ralph Morelos grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds while Center Mark Davison led the team with 13 points. Rashad Martin finished with 11 points while Kenny Cheng scored 7 points.

Kings of Krunk trailed 41-21 at the half and never made an effort to keep the game close. Their players settled for outside shots and it was obvious A*Team’s OT Semifinals game took a toll on Kings of Krunk. Brandon Papez finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds while former Finals MVP Tony Demonaco scored just 2 points, 3 assists.

GOLD DIVISION SEMIFINALS

(1) Gunnaz vs. (5) Primetime

Gunnaz and Primetime went into OT period and GM of the Season Kassah Kantiok did all he can to try and lead #1 team Gunnaz to the Finals. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the rookies time as Primetime advanced to the Finals with a 66-60 win.

The game went back and forth as Rookie of the Season Osasu Oronsaye knocked down a 3-pointer to give Primetime a 28-26 lead early in the contest. Not to be outdone, Mark Davison answered with a thunderous dunk to tie the ball game. Primetime rallied with 12 straight points only for Gunnaz GM Kassah Kantiok to answer back with 3 straight 3-pointers on the left wing.

Kantiok finished with 6 three-pointers and knocked down 27 points and 12 rebounds. Osasu led Gunnaz with 4 steals and he finished with 5 three’s and 17 points. His play was limited in the 2^nd half as he sat out with an injury with 17:15 left in the decisive half. Richard Busaka struggled with just 2 points while Derrick Okoth finished with 6 points. Okoth, throwing up an airball with 20 seconds left on regulation, also struggled in OT throwing the ball away numerous times.

“Putting him on blast will only make him a better play,” said a league analyst. “He knows what he did wrong, he’ll learn from it, and he’ll come back with a stronger season.”

For several season, Primetime knew the feeling all too well and the bitterness made GM Dung Dang battle-tested. Dang connected for 2 three-pointers, 8 points, and a team-high 4 assists. Donald Colford logged 16 points and 5 rebounds while Mark Davison finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds.

Primetime had a chance to put the game away in Regulation with an alley-oop play but the ball rimmed out as time expired.

(2) A*Team vs. (6) Kings of Krunk

A*Team didn’t take their first lead until there was 5:35 left in the ball game and Sam Yeung blocked Kings of Center PF Brian Papez shot to send the game into OT. At the end, Kings of Krunk edged out A*Team as Krunk advance to their first Finals appearance with a 51-49 win.
Brandon Papez will Kings of Krunk to victory and he tallied 14 rebounds, 17 points and was 3-for-6 from the charity stripe. Lucky Wickremetunge had an all-around game with 9 points, 5 assists and 4 steals

while Kenneth Tana finished with 9 points and 4 steals.

A*Team was led by Victor Lee who finished with 24 points and 8 rebounds. Center DJ  Jones tallied 13 rebounds and 9 points while Alan Jones scored 10 points and dished 3 assists.

GOLD DIVISION QUARTER FINALS

(2) A*Team vs. (10)  Got Em

Former MVP Kevin Valmonte was kicking his rear after Got Em fell to A*Team, 98-97. Despite his failure to convert an ‘and-1’ free throw that would have completed the 4-point play, this was a game that he should be proud of since his team never gave up. Got Em was down by as 15 points and looked like they had nothing against the surging A*Team squad.

Valmonte finished with 28 points, 3 assists and 4 steals while Rahsaan Reyes added 24 points. Wes Fuller logged 18 points and 3 assists while Hector McCain led the team with 4 assists. For much of the 1st half, Center Rob Da Silva was the only scorer and he ended the game with 22 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks.

Rookie Victor Lee saved his best game of the season with a stellar line of 37 points, 4 steals, and 6 rebounds. Lightning quick point guard Yoshi Wickremetunge led A*team with 3 assists while SG Matt Stein finished with 8 points. Sam Yeung connected for 10 points while rookie big man DJ Jones scored 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.

After holding a 15 point lead, Got Em gained momentum entering halftime as Wes Fuller connected on a buzzer beater 3-pointer. Got Em got their first lead, 64-61 with 15 minutes left and both teams were on fire in the last 10 minutes of the ball game. Got Em GM Kevin Valmonte was fouled after making a 3-pointer to tie the game but missed a free throw that would have tied the game for Got Em. Per request of A*Team, yes, we repeated the statement that Valmonte missed a free throw that would have sent the game into OT.

(1) Gunnaz  vs. (9) Encore  

How would the defending Champs hold up against the surging Gunnaz squad? Would former MVP Walter Tamidles be the difference maker for the defending Champions? Would unheralded defender Rashan Haralson anchor the team’s defense? Rather than play as a unit, the team played as individuals as Gunnaz move on to the Semis with a 84-75 win.

Alphonso White scored 18 points and finished with 8 rebounds while Allen Brown struggled with just 5 points and 2 assists. Matt Anderson scored 11 points and 8 rebounds while Walter Tamidles finished with 4 three-pointers and 21 points.

Chris Johnson led all scorers with 7 three-pointers and he finished with 32 points and 4 assists. Rookie of the Season Osasu Oransaye logged 17 points and 3 blocks while GM Kassah Kantiok scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.

Gunnaz jumped to a 46-36 halftime lead and never looked back as GM of the Season Kantiok didn’t call any time outs in the contest. Gunnaz led 21-12 when Encore called their first timeout at the 14:26 mark.

Encore looks to be back next season and GM Dale Basingat is undecided with the team’s name. Will Encore go back to San Miguel Beermen or stick with Encore? There’s no un-certainty with Walter Tamidles as the former MVP has decided to jump ship and bring back Buckets to Gold Division. The recruiting wars have begun and his decision to bring back Buckets has players in Kings of Krunk upset.

“We’re telling him to play in Platinum so we can still play, but he wants to stay in Gold,” said Kings of Krunk PF Brian Papez. “We’re offering Jonathan Gibson as well but he’s refusing that offer.”

(3) Flight School vs. (6) Kings of Krunk

With a convincing 45-35 lead at halftime, Flight School looked over-confident and rookie Mitchell Victor re-assured league analysts that Flight School was way too over confident.

Looking at his stats briefly at halftime, Victor only had this to say, “Damn!”

Victor had 20 points at the half and ended the game with 25 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds. He slowed down in the 2^nd half as Kings of Krunk rallied with Brandon Papez leading the way.

Papez finished with 24 points and 2 rebounds while Tony Demonaco added 10 points and 5 assists. Chris Encines added 6 points and 3 assists while Kenneth Tana tallied 9 points and 5 rebounds. If SSBL were WWE, GM Ryan Rulloda would be everyone’s favorite heel as he once again had his opponents jeering for Kings of Krunk.

“All day!!!!” yelled the Flight School faithful once Flight School re-gained the lead in the 2^nd half.

David Marquez connected for 4 three-pointers and finished with 20 points. Jeb Busbin added 8 points and 6 rebounds while Chris Thomas finished with 4 points and 3 boards. Thomas fouled out with 6 minutes left and Flight School’s best defender could only watch as Kings of Krunk advanced to the next round.

(4) Primetime vs. (13) Wedashitudaflys

Primetime jumped to a 36-25 lead and never looked back as Primetime defeat Weda, 78-55.

With scrappy defense and Rashad Martin hitting 4 three-pointers, Primetime looked convincing in their win and GM Dung Dang felt it was about time. They dominated the Regular Season with ease but always struggled in the first day of the Playoffs as Primetime would fall apart either in the 1^st Round or Quarterfinals. Mark Davison finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds while Donald Colford finished 12 points and 2 assists. Rashad Martin led Primetime with 7 three-pointers and he finished with 28 points.

Alex “Bear” Ivezaj scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead Weda while Rene Medina posted 15 points and 3 rebounds. Richard Ramirez logged 8 points while GM John Paras knocked down 2 three-pointers.

DIAMOND & PLATINUM DIVISION

By: Hanz Jimenez

Diamond:  (1) Warriors vs. (2) Flava
 

“He’s a great Platinum Division Player but he’ll never win one in Diamond,” said one critic.

“He always misses layups in Diamond, plus he can’t carry a team like he does in the other divisions,” said another critic.

For several seasons, the league’s most decorated player, Kenneth Ubom, has had to endure the criticism from his peers. His career started with a Championship and a Finals MVP (Summer 2007) with Money Inc and the following season, his team (Association, Platinum Division) completed the first perfect season in league history. Two and a half years later, Ubom has completed his Superstar Basketball League resume with a Diamond DIvision Championship as #2 seed Flava defeat defending Champions Warriors, 59-52.

Ubom finished with 16 points and 6 rebounds but struggled from the charity stripe hitting just 6-of-11 from the stripe. Flava trailed 27-25 at halftime but the team rallied with a 16-9 run in the 3rd quarter. The team combined for 5 steals and Aesh Dabbas led all players with 2 blocked shots. Gemayal McBride led Flava with 2 assists while Jay Hollis led Flava with 18 points and 3 three-pointers. Dabbas finished with 8 points while Dwayne Gaines led the team with 5 rebounds.

Warriors were in a roll late in the season but the defending Champs saw their Championship hopes fall last week when former Rookie of the season Ryan Snook suffered a leg injury in the Semifinals game against Beermen. Snook tried to coach the team from the sidelines as former MVP Sean Harris led the team with 22 points and 2 assists. Harris got to the line at will shooting 9 free throws in the 1st half. Hall of Famer Andrew Knox finished with 12 points and 6 rebounds while former Finals MVP Cisco Acevado had a forgettable Finals performance with just 5 points.

Platinum:  (1) Flava vs. (3) Relics

It was an anti-climatic finish and the moans of the crowd spoke volumes as Relics threw the ball away with 20 seconds left on the clock. The former Champions never recovered as Flava 4 Life win the Platinum Division Championship with a 66-61 win.

Gemayal McBride was clutch for Flava down the stretch as he seemingly knocked down every free throw he took late in the game. Mc Bride started the game 0-for-5 from the line but recovered making all 8 free throws thereafter. He scored 14 points and grabbed 3 steals while Dwayne Gaines finished with a team-high 23 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. GM Mario Thompson scored 7 points and led the team with 5 assists but it was Gaines who was named Finals MVP.

“It’s always tough to hand out an MVP for Flava because everyone contributes,” said league analyst Harry Yoo. “Everyone does their job and not one player tends to stand out.”

What stood out the most for Relics was their amount of turnovers late in the game. Point guard James Acevado uncharacteristically threw the ball away with 23 seconds left on the clock and he finished with 2 steals and just 1 assist. Cisco Acevado led the team with 5 three-pointers and he finished with 17 points. David Johnson logged 11 points and 3 assists while Hall of Famer Andrew Knox tallied 20 points and 9 rebounds.

Flava 4 Life led 23-22 at halftime and the team took advantage of Relics 6-man roster as they continually ran the floor in the 2^nd half. Ryan Snook and Sean Harris, two of Relics key players were unavailable for the match-up.

WINTER 2010, SEASON XV

WOMEN’S DIVISION

By: Hanz Jimenez

(1) Lady Air vs. (2) Triple Threat

Triple Threat kept the game competitive throughout the game and Lady Air’s bid for a 4^th straight title was no cake walk. Both teams were treated to a special performance by the Strikers All Stars – a dance crew that was seen in MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew. When the dust settled, it was Lady Air that stomped their way to a historic 4^th straight title with a 41-36 win.

Triple Threat’s PF Monique was a defensive threat blocking 3 shots and nearly sending all her blocked shots to the stands. Rosa Lee kept TT in the game offensively and she finished with 13 points and 5 rebounds while Monique scored 8 points and grabbed 2 rebounds. MVP Samantha Cordeno logged 9 points and 5 rebounds while point guard Virginia Vasquez led the team with 3 assists.

Once again, former Finals MVP Amanda Livingston made a huge impact in the Championship Game scoring 17 points and grabbing 17 rebounds.

“I really don’t deserve this,” said a humble Livingston, post-game. “I rarely played all season.”

It’s hard to award someone else the division’s top honor especially after Livingston out-rebounded her team, 17-15. Triple Threat combined for 18 rebounds with Cordeno and Rosa Lee grabbing 5 rebounds apiece.

Monique Nolan was the second leading scorer with 14 points and Jatara Pryor led the team with 4 assists and 2 blocks.

Lady Air has the most Championship wins in a row in Superstar Basketball history and Lady Air is now 4-for-4 in Championship Games.

WINTER 2010, SEASON XV
ALL STAR WEEKEND

By: Hanz Jimenez
Writer

Superstar Basketball didn’t host the All Star Weekend last season, and on Easter Sunday, they are hoping to resurrect the All Star / Championship Weekend to what it was. The All Star Weekend will have the Diamond Division vs. Platinum Division All Star Game and the Gold Division All Star Game. A lot of players are excited about the Slam Dunk Contest, will it quietly make a return this season?

There’s no hype surrounding the Dunk Contest this season but if it takes place, Brandon Jones is ready to face on all newcomers. Alan Jones of A*Team is hoping to compete along with DJ Jones, his teammate. Will the Dunk Contest turn out to be the battle of the Joneses?

The All Star Weekend’s main draw is the 3-point Contest and the competitive Gold Division All Star Game. The league hosts All Star Games to celebrate the season, to have the league’s top players acquainted with each other and most General Managers use it as an opportunity to recruit some of the league’s All Stars to their team.

“The balance of power shifts during All Star Weekend and a lot of GMs are in the stands trying to pick up some talent,” said a league analyst. “We’ll see how Easter affects everything this weekend.”

3 POINT CONTEST

The 3-point contest was won by Walter Tamidles of SICKWIDIT last Summer. Several players have already expressed interest in participating this season.

Winner receives trophy and Gold All Star jersey.

 
DIAMOND vs. PLATINUM DIVISION ALL STAR GAME

Diamond Division All Star – Starters

GM Andrew Knox, Warriors – led Reigning Champions Warriors to a division best 6-2 record and #1 seed.

PG James Acevado, Warriors – led both Diamond and Platinum Division in assists with 39 and 34 assists respectively.

SG Cisco Acevado, Warriors – led Diamond Division with 39 three-pointers. Will be participating in both Championship Games.

SF Jimmy Miyasaka, Taiwan Center – Rookie of the Season, averaged 19.6 ppg and led Taiwan Center with 27 three-pointers.

PF Kenneth Ubom, Flava – led Flava in scoring with 20.9 ppg, #1 in steals with 20 steals for the season.

C M’Jumbe Williams, Buzz Basketball – led Buzz Basketball in scoring, Runner up for Rookie of the Season.

Diamond Division All Star – Bench

Rob Summers, Beermen Show – Fantasy Player of the Season. Led Beermen Show in scoring with 26.4 ppg, 20 three-pointers

Lasalle Thomas, Warriors – named Defensive Player of the Season, averaged 11.3 rpg, 1.4 spg

Billy Hofman, Taiwan Center – averaged 13.0 ppg. Led team with 3.7 apg, 1.7 spg

Mike Hernandez, Beermen Show – PG for Beermen averaged 16.1 ppg, 4.6 apg, 7.7 rpg. Was considered one of the flashiest PGs all season.

Eric Kendrick, Lights Out – led team with 2.6 apg, averaged 13.1 ppg.

Jimmy Baker, Lights Out – averaged a team-high 15.0 ppg, 3.4 rpg for Lights Out.

Durwin Williams, Buzz Basketball – second leading scorer with 15.2 ppg, 8.8 rpg.

Dion Bailey, B3ST – second leading scorer for B3ST with 18.6 ppg. Averaged a double-double with 10.1 rpg.

Jameel Greenwood – led team with 16.7 ppg, 7.7 rpg

Terrence Martin, B3ST – averaged a team high 26.5 ppg, 2.6 apg.

Platinum Division All Star – Starters

GM Harry Yoo, Warriors – led nWo to 2^nd best record in Platinum Division.

PG Mario Thompson, Flava 4 Life – led team to #1 record. Recorded team-highs with 16 steals, 27 assists.

SG Dwayne, Flava 4 Life – Defensive Player of the season, averaged a team-high 21.6 ppg, 7.6 rpg

SF Gary Beiard, SICKWIDIT – named MVP, led division in scoring and 3-pointers with 171 points, 37 three-pointers

PF Alex “Bear” Ivezaj – led n W o with 77 rebounds and 4 blocks. Second leading scorer with 19.9 ppg.

C Amos Battle – Averaged a team-high 27.8 ppg for Screwed Up Click

Platinum Division All Star – Bench

Ryan Snook, Relics – ranked 2^nd in three-pointers with 34 three’s.

Larry Park, SICKWIDIT – ranked 3^rd in assists with 25 assists, 3.6 apg.

Jonathan Wynn, nWo – averaged 9.8 ppg, 2.7 apg

Juan Martinez, Infamous – second leading scorer for Infamous, 18.3 ppg, 20 three-pointers

Calvin Smith III – led team with 21.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg.

Lonny Crockett – averaged a team-high 18.0 ppg, 10.7 rpg

Donald Colford, LA United – averaged 12.8 ppg, team-high 3.0 apg

Gerald Draves, Screwed Up Click – led team with 16 three-pointers, averaged 12.6 ppg.

Jameel Greenwood – led team with 16.7 ppg, 7.7 rpg

Mike, Flava 4 Life – averaged 16.4 ppg, 4.0 apg, 4.2 rpg

GOLD DIVISION ALL STAR GAME

Gold Division All Star (West) – Starters

GM Sean Adachi, A*Team – led A*Team to second best record, 6-2

PG Jordan Ramos, -_- – named MVP, led Gold Division in assists and steals with 68 and 29 respectively.

SG AJ Baylon, -_- – led team in 3-pointers with 24. Second leading scorer with 15.9 ppg

SF Alan Jones, A*Team – Fantasy Player of the Season, averaged 21.1 ppg, 2.1 apg.

PF Rashad Martin, Primetime – averaged 18.1 ppg, 1.9 apg, 10.0 rpg

C Mike Epps, Blitzburgh – led Gold Division in scoring with 196 points, 24.5 ppg

Gold Division All Star (West) – Bench

Victor Lee, A*Team – averaged 15.0 ppg, 2.9 apg, 8.1 rpg as a rookie.

Brandon Papez, Kings of Krunk – leading scorer for Krunk with 19.3 ppg, 9.3 rpg.

Dung Dang, Primetime – averaged a team-high 3.3 apg, 7.0 ppg.

Jose Perez, Bullets – averaged a team-high12.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg.

David Munoz, Outlawz – led team with 2.6 apg, averaged 13.1 ppg.

Eduardo Gonzalez, Outlawz – led Outlawz with 17.4 ppg, 12 blocks.

Raymond Henry, The Rock – scored a team-high 16.0 ppg, 3.3 apg.

Jesse Romero, Dynasty – led Dynasty in scoring with 24.6 ppg. Knocked down a team-high 17 three-pointers and averaged a double-double grabbing 10.7 rpg.

Chris Epps, Blitzburgh – led Blitzburgh in steals and assists with 2.8 spg, 4.3 apg.

Lucky Wickremetunge, Kings of Krunk – led Krunk in steals with 1.9 spg. Averaged 3.1 apg, 7.9 ppg.

Gold Division All Star (East) – Starters

GM Kassah Kantiok, Gunnaz– led Gunnaz to a division best 7-1 record. Named GM of the Season.

PG Kenny Ali, Bad News – averaged a team-high 5.0 apg and ranked 2^nd in division in assists category; led BNB with 10 steals.

SG Osasu Oronsaye, Gunnaz – Rookie of the Season, led division with 29 three-pointers.

SF Brandon Jones, Bullies – led Bullies with 18.5 ppg, 24 three-pointers.

PF Mitchell Victor, Flight School – averaged a team-high 25.8 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.2 spg.

C Jonathan Spaniol, Bad News – led Bad News Ballers with 10 blocks, averaged 10.3 rpg, 16.3 ppg.

Gold Division All Star (East) – Bench

Chris Johnson, Gunnaz – averaged 14.4 ppg, 2.6 apg, 1.9 spg

David Marquez, Flight School – averaged 14.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 1.8 spg

Richard Busaka, Gunnaz – knocked down 23 three-pionters, averaged 13.3 ppg, 1.3 spg

Shaun Miller, Brotherhood – averaged a double-double with 16.0 ppg, 13.7 rpg

David West, Upper Hand – ranked 2^nd in division with 28 steals, averaged 13.6 ppg.

Richard Ramirez, Wedashitudaflys – averaged 14.4 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 1.8 spg.

Darnell McLaurin, GLD – averaged 12.8 ppg, team-high 3.0 apg

Leomar Cachola, D-League – averaged 14.1 ppg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 spg for D-League

Alphonso White, Encore – former MVP, averaged a team-high 16.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg, recorded 7 blocks.

Victor Arellano, Premier – led Premier with 15.3 ppg, 7 blocks.

WOMEN’S DIVISION

By: Hanz Jimenez

(1) Lady Air vs. (2) Unfinished Business

Lady Air and Triple Threat dominated the Regular Season with both teams compiling a 5-2 record. For Lady Air, this is beyond imagination, an accomplishment that will boost Lady Air to heights never before seen, a 4^th Championship that will secure 1 full year of dominance over the Women’s Division. Can Triple Threat stop Lady Air’s bid for a 4^th title?

MVP Samantha Cardeno averaged 14.6 ppg, 3.7 apg, 1.6 spg. Melissa Martinez scored 9.0 ppg, 1.7 apg while GM Elizabeth Skilez scored 8.8 ppg, 6.3 rpg. This is Skiles’ best team yet and this season, they averaged a franchise best 51.0 ppg, 10.6 apg. They’ve held up their end on the rebounding department, and they averaged 37.0 rpg.

 This season, Lady Air averaged 52.3 ppg and they were led once again by Amanda Livingston. She averaged 10.5 ppg, 10.3 rpg. Jatara Pryor led the team with 4 blocks and 20 assists (3.3 apg) and she averaged 8.2 ppg. Tamara Campbell scored 7.2 ppg, 2.4 apg while Kareena posted a near double-double with 9.2 ppg, 9.3 rpg.

Because Lady Air is competing for a historic 4^th title, a special performance by Strikers All Stars will take place prior to tip-off. Strikers All Stars was a dance crew that performed in America’s Best Dance Crew, Season 3.

DIAMOND & PLATINUM DIVISION

By: Hanz Jimenez

Diamond:  (1) Warriors vs. (2) Flava
Platinum:  (1) Flava vs. (3) Relics

For the first time ever, two affiliate teams will face each other in the league’s two highest divisions, Diamond and Platinum.

The first Diamond & Platinum Division Championship of the 2010 decade is up for grabs and two of the league’s top franchises, Warriors-Relics and Flava are in contention.

Flava, an LA team, dominated 2009 with back-to-back Championships in Diamond Division beating Young Gunnaz in Winter 2009 and nWo Wolfpack in Spring 2009. Their bid for a 3^rd title was unsuccessful after most of their players got bored and the travel from LA became overwhelming. These days, you have Flava playing two games just so their travel from LA isn’t wasted and it’s no surprise both of their Diamond and Platinum Division teams are in the Finals.

Warriors, the Reigning Champions, are surprisingly the underdogs today. They have a chance to avenge a loss they suffered a year ago as Young Gunnaz. Most of the players from last season’s Championship roster are back with the exception of Robbie Banks. Without their premier shot blocker, GM Andrew Knox will have to step it up in the post along with Defensive Player of the Season Lasalle Thomas. Thomas ranked 2^nd in the division in rebounds grabbing 79 this season while Knox finished 3^rd with 75 rebounds.

The staple for Flava’s franchise has always been defense. Their heart and soul, Mario Thompson, ran the LA Marathon 2 weeks ago and conditioning is the team’s biggest strength. They run a press that’s nearly unstoppable and as a team, they averaged 7.4 spg, 59 steals. Surprisingly, Warriors led the division in steals with 66 steals, 8.3 spg.

The x-factor for Warriors will be Sean Harris. The former Finals/Regular Season MVP (Fall 2008) is a savvy forward who can distribute the ball and play hard-nosed defense. He doesn’t need to put up big numbers to be effective but word on the street is he’ll be unavailable for the match-up.

“A lot of our guys won’t be there today due to the Easter Holiday,” said GM Andrew Knox.

James Acevado led the division with 39 assists and he averaged 4.9 apg. He looks to pass to his brother Cisco, who a year ago demolished the scoring title scoring 100 points in one game. “C-Note” led the division with 39 three-pointers.

Out of all the players on the court this Holiday weekend, the player with the most to prove will be Kenneth Ubom. The record-holder for most points in a season (41.3 ppg) has never been the main guy in a Diamond Division team and now is his chance to claim that spot. He’s been the Platinum Division Finals MVP, he’s been a lethal scorer in Platinum but in Diamond, he’s never been a solid contributor until now. Will Ubom claim his first Diamond Division Finals MVP?

Ubom averaged 20.9 ppg while Aesh Dabbas and Michael Jenkins both averaged 10.2 ppg in the Regular Season. Both Ray Hong and Mario Thompson led the team with 15 assists.

League analysts are hoping both teams go 1-1 in Diamond and Platinum but that is very unlikely. Word on the street is Relics/Throwback’s will be short handed but anything can happen in this Easter Holiday. Normally we do not play on a Holiday Weekend, especially Easter but the season was pushed back for 2-3 weeks due to gym conflicts. Pushing another season back would mean a shorter Summer break.

Will Warriors-Relics show up with a full roster? Ryan Snook is already out with an injury, how will GM Andrew Knox compensate for Snook’s departure? Will both teams go for a split or will Flava go for a 2-0 sweep?

WOMEN’S DIVISION

By: Hanz Jimenez

(1) Lady Air vs. (4) Dream Team

Only 4 players showed up for Dream Team’s playoff game as Lady Air easily advance to the Finals with a 58-34 win.

Monique Nolan finished with 19 points and 9 rebounds while Jatara Pryor added 14 points and 2 steals. Shanae Blake finished with 6 points while Kareena grabbed 6 rebounds. Lady Air coasted without controversy as their point guard, Monique Nolan, was called for a double-tech and will not be available to play for the Championship Game.

Nicole Ramos finished with 4 three-pointers while Anna Reyes led the team with 3 steals. Dream Team failed to pay ref fees and will be in danger of being added to the 80’s List.

(2) Triple Threat vs. (3) Lady Lobos

Triple Threat started the game with a 23 point handicap as Lady Lobos showed up 11 minutes late. Charlene Underwood tried her best to carry Lobos back in the ball game but the deficit was too much as Triple Threat advance to the Finals with a 66-55 victory.

Underwood scored 12 field goals and finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds and 2 steals. Jazy Scott logged 10 points and 12 rebounds while Stephanie Serving grabbed 3 boards. The team was missing several key players in Brenda Chavez, Candice Allen, and Sandra Woloschuck.

Rosa Lee finished with 16 points while MVP Samantha Corderno logged 12 points, 3 assists and 5 rebounds. GM Elizabeth Skiles finished with 7 rebounds as Triple Threat advance to the Finals to meet 3-time Champions, Lady Air.