NBDL (D-League) Growing Pains

[Durbansandshark]

I recently read the SLAM magazine article on the NBDL. It's not where the NBA would like for it to be at this stage. The competition level is comparable to that in several minor leagues in America, even the ABA and CBA. Many NBA execs aren't too thrilled about this league, though there are some in high places like Timberwolves GM Kevin McHale and Nuggets coach George Karl who do support it. Maybe it's because the NBA is still getting accustomed to having a minor pro basketball league of its own creation instead of aligning with the likes of the CBA in years past. But I, like many, think it's great, despite a bit of what I said on the NBA age requirement controversy months ago, to have an outlet for young, unproven talent to have a consistent go ala minor league hockey and baseball as they pay their dues and develop better skills. But once they get to the big show, they'll likely be the 10th to 12th Man on the roster, and then there's the fierce competition from weary vets in both the NBDL and the NBA. Many of the players there are far from household names. Only a handful have been assigned. Problem is, control issues come into play: many GMs and coaching staffs don't want to see their own young players developing outside their own systems (teams share NBDL affiliates so they have to be neutral, three teams each share an affiliate), most players are reluctant to be sent down there like Ndudi Ebi who's now out of the NBA after complaining wanting to ride pine and reap millions than to play for, to them peanuts. Team can send first and second-year players there but no more three times a season and two at a time. There's no maximum or minimum length of stay there. Since there's no committment from the NBA movers and shakers, fans get a half-assed, mushy result that won't please everyone with low attendance even from its (south)westward expansion teams--Austin Toros, Tulsa 66ers, Alberquerque Thunderbirds (featuring quick Japanese point guard Yuta Tabutse who can't seem to harness it even in the NBDL level, making his brief appearance in Phoenix remarkable), Fort Worth Flyers, and the Arkansas RimRockers--even when they play in modest facilities by NBA standards.

I still call it the NBDL instead of its now current name the D-League. Already several teams have bit the dust over the years--the Asheville (NC) Altitude (despite winning last three NBDL titles), the Greenville (SC) Groove, Columbus (SC) Riverdragons, Huntsville (AL) Flight, North Charleston (SC) Lowgators, and Mobile (AL) Revelers. Only the Roanoke Dazzle and the Fayetteville Patriots still exist from the first season. One of the problems with thses teams was that they were located far beyond to where the NBA teams were based. When it started, there were located in the Southeastern region. The league still has aspirations of having a roster of at least 15 teams (two NBA teams for each franchise), if not 30 (one for each NBA franchise). Why didn't they locate the teams at the beginning, like they seem to be doing now closer to the NBA franchise bases? The Golden State Warriors are reluctant to send their rookie players down to their Fort Worth affiliate.

Then again, the league still has potential but still underdeveloped and in need of time to prove itself. Crowds are small and the atmosphere hokey. But there are some familiar names like Oklahome State's John Lucas III, draft project Ersan Ilyasova from Turkey, Bernard King Jr., former Portland State Viking Seamus Boxley, Peter John Ramos, and Cezary Trybanski. Plus former Altitude and current Toros head coach Joey Meyer, who succeeded his legendary dad Ray at DePaul University in 1984 and later went on to coach the fleeting ABA's Chicago Skyliners. Michael Cooper coaches the Thunderbirds. The league should observe minor league's AHL, who tend to have affiliates of their own in the lower levels. Heard some talk of a merger with the CBA.

More westward expansion is coming: the Bakersfield (CA) Jam arrives at an NBDL arena near you next season becoming the first NBDL West Coast team. (Didn't Bakersfield try to get an ABA team?) www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/bakersfield_index.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/bakersfield_index.html)

Also, Sony's NBA video game series is the only one out of the NBA video games out there that features NBDL teams.

www.arenadigest.com/archives/2005/nov25_31.html (http://www.arenadigest.com/archives/2005/nov25_31.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Talks with the CBA have begun again with the possibility of a merger between the NBDL absorbing four of the CBA's stronger teams (like the Sioux Falls Skyforce) including the 2006-07 expansion Colorado 14ERS based in Broomfield, Colorado to put an end to the minor league basketball war between them. A merger will give NBA teams more control over sending down and calling up players. Though the Yakima Sun Kings, whom Ronny Turiaf played in a rehab stint from heart surgery before joining the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire, lead the CBA in attendance, there's concern about its long-term financial committment involving its owners, the Yakima Indian Tribe.

www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic ... 002/SPORTS (http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060322/SPORTS0302/603220309/1002/SPORTS)

[Durbansandshark]

As I stated earlier, many NBA teams were originally reluctant to send their players down there. But as the season went along, more players like Portland's seldom-used Marvin Webster were sent the NBDL affiliates with good results. Marcus Fizer was recently called up. Now it's becoming a farm system instead of providing reinforcements for NBA teams. 19 teams have sent one player each, including five first-rounders, to their affiliates. With talks about merging with the CBA still ongoing (a good idea), promotional works must step up out of the NBA marketing genuises to really make the farm system work.

www.nytimes.com/2006/03/28/sports/baske ... 0&emc=eta1 (http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/28/sports/basketball/28nbdl.html?ex=1144213200&en=5c6504e3908fd000&ei=5070&emc=eta1)

[Bobby]

Much of the credit goes to the new Collective Bargaining Agreement encouraging players to be sent to the D-League for player development, something which wasn't formally discussed in the previous CBA.

[Durbansandshark]

OK. It's official: the NBDL is going to expand by absorbing the four strongest CBA franchises next season (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp). Wish Yakima was included, maybe later if the situation gets worked out.

[Durbansandshark]

Another team has been announced to join the NBDL: Anahiem, the leading light that is Orange County in the Greater LA area, continues the NBDL's westward expansion.

As some of you know, the Clippers used to play some of their home games at the nearby Arrowhead Pond before moving to the Staples Center. There are several ABA teams in the area (Southern California Legends, Inglewood Cobras, Orange County Buzz, and Los Angeles Aftershocks). So, I wonder how they will be impacted by this. Anahiem almost had an ABA team in the resurrected league's first season--the Anahiem Roadrunners--but it died before playing a game. In the original ABA's first, the city had the Anahiem Amigos, which later moved to Los Angeles and became the Stars. I would expect Anahiem to already get an NBA franchise or get the Clippers to play at the Pond.

Speaking of which, I hear the Clippers are going to run this. Glad it's not the NDCELE.

www.nba.com/dleague/news/anahiem_060411.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/anahiem_060411.html)

In other NBDL news, New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets have called up NBDL MVP Marcus Fizer for the remainder of the season. Hope his veteran savvy will help the young team at least try to make a strong playoff push in the end and knock off that wretched Evil Empire from the playoffs.
www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

[DoubleA]

How long before each NBA team has its own NBDL affiliate I wonder, 5-10 years?

[Durbansandshark]

How long before each NBA team has its own NBDL affiliate I wonder, 5-10 years?

Actually a lot sooner than that it seems now...

The Charlotte Bobcats could very well be the sole owner and operator of the Fayetteville Patriots.
www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=231400 (http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=231400)

Here's how the NBA NBDL allocation stands as of this season:

Alberquerque Thunderbirds--Phoenix, Utah, Sacramento, Seattle
Arkansas Rimrockers--Atlanta, Cleveland, Memphis, Toronto
Austin Toros--Denver, Houston, San Antonio, Los Angeles Clippers
Fayetteville Patriots--Charlotte, New York, Detroit
Florida Flame--Boston, Miami, Minnesota, Orlando
Fort Worth Flyers--Dallas, Golden St., Portland, NDCELE
Roanoke Dazzle--New Jersey, Philadelphia, Washington
Tulsa 66ERS--Chicago, Indiana, Milwaukee, New Orleans/Oklahoma City

With the new wave of expansion coming in next season, here's how I project on the NBA allocation:

Colorado 14ERS--Denver (easily)
Bakersfield Jam--Golden St., Sacramento
Anahiem--Los Angeles Clippers (easily)
Sioux Falls Skyforce--Chicago
Dakota Wizards--Minnesota
Idaho Stampede--Seattle, Portland, Utah

It's only right and beneficial that NBA teams would have their farm teams reasonably close to their primary NBA headquarters. With this expansion, travel costs will go down.

In other NBDL news, the Arkansas RimRockers have removed GM Otis Birdsong, effective May 1, to cut operation costs. www.nwanews.com/adg/Sports/152434/ (http://www.nwanews.com/adg/Sports/152434/)

John Brunelle, Idaho Stampede's GM since 2001 and team president since 2004, has resigned with Steve Brandis taking over on May 1.
http://www2.kbcitv.com/x71248.xml
www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3297606 (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3297606)

Very disturbing news: David Stern has sadly granted permission for the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire to use it oppressive tentacles to create a NBDL franchise in its hopes to ressurrect and regenerate. (http://www.sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2414330) This franchise, which will only and forever be referred to as the (Now Deservedly Crumbling) Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter (or Division, if you prefer) will begin play next season as well. Now it's going to have reinforcements in its mindless quest for re-domination. The NDCELE WNBA Chapter (and My Stupid Evil Pony) is bad enough. :evil: :evil:

Saturday, the Alberquerque Thunderbirds and the Ft. Worth Flyers will play for the NBDL title to become new champs. The Ashville Altitude won last season but either ceased operations or went westward.

[Essen]

Saturday, the Alberquerque Thunderbirds and the Ft. Worth Flyers will play for the NBDL title to become new champs.

New Zealand Breakers' import Rich Melzer will be playing for the Thunderbirds in this game. Since joining them shortly after the completion of the ANBL season, he's been a bit of a sixth-man for them averaging 10ppg off the bench but more weirdly so, doing a decent amount of 3pt shooting and doing it well at 50% :?

[Durbansandshark]

Saturday, the Alberquerque Thunderbirds and the Ft. Worth Flyers will play for the NBDL title to become new champs.

New Zealand Breakers' import Rich Melzer will be playing for the Thunderbirds in this game. Since joining them shortly after the completion of the ANBL season, he's been a bit of a sixth-man for them averaging 10ppg off the bench but more weirdly so, doing a decent amount of 3pt shooting and doing it well at 50% :?

That sounds like Arydas Sabonis' 3-pt percentages.

[Essen]

Albuquerque won the championship game 119-108.

Rich Melzer only played 15 minutes but still managed 13 points at 5/6 FG (2/2 3pt) and 1/1 FT while also chipping in with 2 assists and 2 steals.

[Durbansandshark]

The Roanoke Dazzle have ceased operations yesterday. It was believed that since their lease at the Roanoke Civic Center was up this year, they were not going to survive with their home attendence so low. If it stuck around, would Washington be interested? Probrably not.
www.roanoke.com/sports/probasketball/wb/63392 (http://www.roanoke.com/sports/probasketball/wb/63392)

As if that wasn't enough, the NBDL has announced today that it is terminating the Fayetteville Patriots after five years, also thanks to poor fan support. I thought and hoped, since it's within the state, the Charlotte Bobcats could operate it as its farm club. www.nba.com/dleague/news/fayetteville_060502.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/fayetteville_060502.html)

That means that not only leaves one team in the Southeastern region, where the league teams were first based as the league goes westward, (Florida Flames) but none of the charter franchises from the NBDL's first season will be around come next season. I was hoping they cut down on travel costs with their presence. All prominent references to those clubs have since been eliminated from the league's website.

[Durbansandshark]

The Fayetteville Patriots has lost at least in the millions in its five years of operation in the NBDL, though the exact amount wasn't disclosed. Another factor working against them was, like the Roanoke Dazzle, was the issue with the lease at the Crown Colisuem that was to expire Sept 30 with a 150-day notice of its intentions. This small city is no stranger to losing minor sports teams (GBA's Fayetteville Flyers, af2's Cape Fear Wildcats, Class A baseball's Cape Fear Crocs, and SHL's Fayetteville Fire Ants). Things started out so well.
www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232184 (http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232184) www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232233 (http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232233)

Meanwhile, the Bakersfield Jam have announced their new President, Laura Mae Divina, while announcing their new logo. www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/divina_060501.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/divina_060501.html)

Rumours abound that Richmond, Virginia will get an expansion NBDL franchise in time for the 2007-08 season. Talks fell through with the Roanoke Dazzle to move there when they ceased operations.

I think it was a mistake to start things out for the NBDL in a small cities in retrospect. As for Roanoke, the Civic Center will not take in any pro sports for now and instaed just focus on ice shows, circuses, high school basketball tournaments, and concerts
www.roanoke.com/sports/probasketball/wb/63349 (http://www.roanoke.com/sports/probasketball/wb/63349)

[Durbansandshark]

The NBDL will have 12 teams coming into the 2006-07 season:

Alberquerque Thunderbirds
Anahiem
Arkansas RimRockers
Austin Toros
Bakersfield Jam
Colorado 14ERS
Dakota Wizards
Ft. Worth Flyers
Idaho Stampede
Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire--NBDL Chapter
Sioux Falls Skyforce
Tulsa 66ERS

The Florida Flame will not take part in the upcoming season because of scheduling conflicts and availability issues at the TECO Arena. The Flame ownership group are looking at alternative venues for the 2007-08 season.

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

[Bobby]

Actually the name of the arena in Estero is Germain Arena. The main tenant of Germain is a AA-level ice hockey team (Everblades).

Germain Automotive is a chain of auto dealerships in the area, focusing mostly on Toyota.

[glockers]

Do the NBDL franchises hire alot of staff and how much experience is needed?

Does each club have a media/pr/communications officer?

Would an overseas person be able to get work in the NBA via this route?

[Durbansandshark]

Thanks for the correction on the arena's name, Bobby. I do know that the Florida Everblades hockey team is Germain Arena's main tenant.

Gary Fluharty and his ownership group have mentioned looking into Gulf Coast University's Alico Arena and Fort Myer's Harborside Events Center as possible options for a new home while not ruling out either moving the team, selling it, or ceasing operations alltogether. An upscale indoor sports palace isn't really needed to serve as a home for an NBDL team, not even in a major city.

Correct me if I'm wrong, because of the fact that NBDL teams with the exception of the NDCELE NBDL Chapter and possibly the Anahiem team, the staff will be entirely different from what the NBA teams have. Surely, they would have a media/public relations personnel. Am ignorant about the immigration aspect for NBDL team employment. I think they can take a few overseas people, given how the basketball game is getting smaller worldwide.

[Durbansandshark]

Other factors that led to the Patriots' demise happened to be a lack of effort--even discouraging--in attracting local sponsorship and ownership (the NBA owned all of the now-defunct original teams in that league that were located in the southeastern US until a few seasons ago), a requisite in minor league sports. It just wanted the team to sell tickets, despite having an average of 2500-3000 fans show up at home at the Crown Center, and make a fan base out of 2000 season ticket holders. It led the league in attendance for three years.

Another thing against them was being situated in an area where college basketball rules (Duke, NC State, North Carolina, UNC-Charlotte)--The Triangle. On paper, it may seem that Fayetteville was ready for minor league basketball but just wasn't, in spite of past teams like the Fayetteville Flyers, but they're not solidly established. Again, why didn't the Charlotte Bobcats think about taking ownership of the team, did they?

www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232786 (http://www.fayettevillenc.com/article?id=232786)

[Bobby]

Great question.

An interesting bit of NBDL history and how it joins along with the BAA in 1946 (the predecessor of the NBA) was how the original BAA was formed by arenas with NHL and AHL teams, the NBDL's roots started in venues with minor league hockey which needed other tenants to help make some revenue.

When the NBDL started in 2001, four of the eight NBDL arenas were shared with ECHL teams, including the reigning ECHL Kelly Cup champion. In 2002, the NBDL Championship and ECHL Kelly Cup were both property of the Bi-Lo Center, which also hosted an NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament game amid protests which led to the venue being permanently banned from hosting the event because activists complaining of a Cross of St. Andrew flag flying in a government building 175 km from Greenville.

Asheville, North Carolina
Columbus, Georgia (East Coast; team now in Southern Professional)
Fayetteville, North Carolina (currently has a Southern Professional)
Greenville, South Carolina (East Coast)
Huntsville, AL (University of Alabama-Huntsville; currently has a Southern Professional)
Mobile, AL (East Coast; team now in Duluth, GA)
North Charleston, South Carolina (East Coast)
Roanoke, Virginia (East Coast; team disbanded in 2004)
[/quote]

[Glenn]

Disappointing to see the shift away from the SE USA for the D-League, I know in the case of Huntsville there were scheduling conflicts at the VBC with the Flight,UAH Chargers and a semi-pro team all competeing for the venue.
Unfortunatly not enough dates to go around, so something had to give and it was the Flight.

[Durbansandshark]

It is a shame the southeastern US is without NBDL basketball. When new or resurrected franchise pops up in the next several years, venue negotitians (for dates in one example) and local businesses must be high in priority to make it work and succeed there. Eventually, some representation in the US southeast has to happen again down the road.

As of May 22, all former CBA teams moving into the NBDL had make their adjustments final.

The incoming Dakota Wizards have named Dave Joeger in a return engagement to the team. He succeeds Dave Bliss who resigned following a disasterous 19-29 season. Joeger previously coached the Sioux Falls Skyforce when both teams were in the CBA. He's more than pleased to be back.

The Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire has just completed a contest for its worshippers of evil to pick out a name for the NDCELE NBDL Chapter. It came down to two names, which I will NEVER use and repeat on these boards (nor should anyone else :evil:). I will give you a hint though, one of them is also used by one the NBL teams.

The Colorado 14ers named former CBA commissioner Gary Hunter as their President and CEO.

www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)
www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060601/lath110.html?.v=40

[Durbansandshark]

The NBDL 2006-07 NBA team affiliations made official today:

Alberquerque Thunderbirds--Phoenix, Cleveland, Indiana
Anahiem--LA Clippers, Portland, Orlando
Arkansas RimRockers--Atlanta, Memphis, Miami
Austin Toros--Boston, Houston, San Antonio
Bakersfield Jam--Golden St., Sacramento
Colorado 14ERS--Denver, New Jersey, Toronto
Dakota Wizards--Chicago, Washington
Ft. Worth Flyers--Dallas, Charlotte, Philadelphia
Idaho Stampede--Seattle, Utah
NDCELE NBDL Chapter--Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire :evil:
Sioux Falls Skyforce--Detroit, Minnesota
Tulsa 66ERS--Milwaukee, New Orleans/Oklahoma City, New York

Disgraced former Georgia Bulldogs coach Jim Harrick, who almost joined the Vancouver ABA franchise, was named the first head coach of the Bakersfield Jam.

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

[Durbansandshark]

The Anahiem NBDL team unvieled its name: The Anahiem Arsenal (sounds like a soccer team) www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem (http://www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem) www.anahiemprobasketball.com (http://www.anahiemprobasketball.com)

Also the new incoming CBA defectees: Sioux Falls Skyforce, Dakota Wizards, and the Idaho Stampede all have new logos. Their previous ones all weren't bad with the Skyforce being the least detailed, but it's probrably a way to mark their entry into the NBDL. The logos aren't yet on the NBDL's website (including the Arsenal), but a look at www.wikipedia.org (http://www.wikipedia.org) should get you a look at them by typing in the team of your choice.

As for the NDCELE NBDL Chapter, that wretched team will play at the Staples Center for home games until the 10,500-seat Ontario Community Events Center is completed in 2007.

[Durbansandshark]

The divisional alignment for the 2006-07 NBDL season:

Eastern Division
Arkansas RimRockers
Austin Toros
Dakota Wizards
Ft. Worth Flyers
Sioux Falls Skyforce
Tulsa 66ers

Western Division
Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Anahiem Arsenal
Bakersfield Jam
Colorado 14ers
Idaho Stampede
Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter

For the first time the NBDL will have its own All-Star game as part of the NBA All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas on Saturday, February 17 at the Jam Session Court Center following the NBA Western and Eastern All-Star practices. The teams will be selected by a vote from fans and D-League players and coaches. Process for this will be finalized and released n the future. Head coaches with the team's best record are to be named two weeks prior to the game.

Ike Austin, former Utah Snowbears coach, GM, and owner and former NBAer, was named as assistant coach and Director of Basketball Operations of the Bakersfield Jam under Jim Harrick.

Another former NBAer Larry Smith, who starred at Alcorn St. and played mostly for the Golden St. Warriors and Houston Rockets before taking the interim head coaching reigns with Houston in 2003, is now the head coach for the Anahiem Arsenal. He last served as an assistant for NBDL champs the Thunderbirds.

I forgot to mention that the Bakersfield Jam actually has roots as the ABA's Long Beach Jam.

The NBDL season begins on November 24 with five games to emphasize cross-regional and cross-town rivalries.

The Now Deserevedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter has their name announced. But HELL NO, I WILL NOT nor will I EVER mention this team's name! (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp) Go ahead and click it. :evil: (You expect this kind of stuff out of me). I WILL tell you that it got thankfully chosen ahead of what is also used for a NBL team (the Breakers, the other finalist) over 63 others. Official announcement of this monstrosity is delayed until a logo is finalized for it. Their first game will be a road game against the Arsenal on Nov 24. GO ARSENAL!!!

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)
www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem (http://www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem)
www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

UPDATE: Some older news that I just got into: there was a possibility that Reno, Nevada would go into the NBDL instead of the CBA with the Reno (or Northern Nevada) Blackjacks or with a whole another name, but this was in mid-June, and the NBDL's 2006-07 schedule is just up. So it's likely it will join Spokane as the other two teams in the CBA next season.
http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic ... 18/SPORTS/ (http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060614/SPORTS01/606140326/1018/SPORTS/)

[Durbansandshark]

As is the case for the ABA teams, several NBDL teams are conducting open tryouts at this time, all under the watchful eye of their coaches.

Speaking of coaches, Morris McHone, who made his name in the minor pro basketball ranks, returns to coach the Sioux Falls Skyforce, a team that he led to the 1995-1996 CBA title with a 142-82 record with them. A two-time CBA Coach of ther Year, He previously coached the CBA's Birmingham Bandits in the early 1990s before the team fizzled and the Yakima Sun Kings. His biggest gig was during the 1983-84 NBA season with the San Antonio Spurs succeeding Stan Albeck who went to coach New Jersey, but McHone get fired during the middle of the season and GM Bob Bass took over. It is considered one of the lost seasons for the Spurs in its history--the team failed to make the playoffs that time as its big stars were injury-riddled.

Idaho Stampede named Bryan Gates as their new head coach.

The Colorado 14ers has reportedly named former North Carolina Tar Heel and journeyman NBAer Joe Wolf as its first head coach, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Wolf (drafted by the LA Clippers in 1987) previously coached the Idaho Stampede in the CBA last season for two years before resigning.

Oh yeah, if you're interested in the NDCELE NBDL Chapter team and logo,
go ahead and click on this (http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_D-Fenders). :evil:

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

UPDATE: The NDCELE NBDL Chapter has named their first coach yesterday in the hopes of unleashing their evil wrath. He's Dan Panaggio, who has been around the blocks in minor league basketball for many years and whose father Mauro is a minor league coaching legend. He coached the Quad City Thunder in the CBA (like his father did and had Mo Cheeks as an assistant then) and after that he spent four years as an assistant with the Trail Blazers and did the same at Indiana University.

[Durbansandshark]

Des Moines, Iowa's capital city, currently has its NBDL expansion application being reviewed. I think Des Moines will be a great fit for the league. This proposed team, headed by former Northern Iowa Panther Nick Nurse, could play at the Wells-Fargo Arena

http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs. ... 03/SPORTS/ (http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060824/SPORTS14/608240394/1003/SPORTS/)

Has the CBA and the NBDL discussed the idea of merging their leagues since it make it less of an alpahbet soup sports league confusion and of the fact that the talent level in both leagues are top level and comperable to each other?

[Durbansandshark]

5-time Milwaukee Bucks NBA All-Star and Arkansas Razorback legend Sidney Moncrief, the first ever NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award recipient in 1983 (he also won in 1984), will replace Sam Vincent as coach of the Ft. Worth Flyers, the NBDL runner-up. Actually, Moncrief, who also coached for the Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans for a couple of seasons owns a car dealership in the state of Arkansas, and Vincent, who has of course head coached Nigeria's and South Africa's national teams, are trading places with Vincent becoming a Mavs Assistant coach. www.nba.com/d-league/fortworth (http://www.nba.com/d-league/fortworth) www.nba.com/features/moncrief_060913.html (http://www.nba.com/features/moncrief_060913.html)

Former Roanoke Dazzle head coach Kent Davison was named assistant coach of the Colorado 14ers. www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

[Durbansandshark]

Sidney Moncreif's old Milwaukee Bucks teammate Paul Mokeski was added to the Fort Worth Flyers coaching staff. He's had some rough knocks in his life in the last several years, including losing his head coaching job for the ABA's Kansas City Knights for testing positive of cocaine (if I recall correctly)

www.nba.com/dleague/fortworth (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortworth)

Olu Famutimi signs with San Antonio www.nba.com/europelive/spurs_notebook_061003.html (http://www.nba.com/europelive/spurs_notebook_061003.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Are the young players that get drafted or are undrafted free agents utilized properly in the NBDL? Depends on the team they are assigned to, but that needs to be addressed more, though they publicly acclaim the benefits. One thing is clear: NBA teams needs to take more advantage than they did last season (but how will they do it with joint affiliation heavily involved?).
www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/15785366.htm (http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/15785366.htm)

[Durbansandshark]

The NBDL champs Albuquerque Thunderbirds will travel to Macau and Ningbo City later this month for a series of exhibitions against Team China. This helps Team China en route for the upcoming Asian Games in Doha, Qatar.
www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/tbirds_ ... 61101.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/tbirds_china_061101.html)

The 2006 NBDL Draft takes place tomorrow. www.nba.com/dleague/news/2006_draft_061024.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/2006_draft_061024.html)

[Durbansandshark]

The NBDL 2006 Draft Results--reminscient of what the NBA had when it was up to ten rounds--starting with Central Connecticut St.'s Corsley Edwards
www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_2006.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_2006.html)

35 NBDL players made it to NBA Opening Day rosters
www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3391297 (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3391297)

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Where you can get all of the fun of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds little trip to China, where they lost the first game to the Chinese National team, thanks to Wang Zhi Zhi's 16 points and 5 rebounds. The Thunderbirds lost to Team China 82-55 in Ningbo City www.nba.com/dleague/news/china06.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/china06.html)

[Durbansandshark]

The Thunderbirds lost again to the Chinese in Macau 86-78 on Saturday. Team China now makes its way towards the Asian Games in Doha, Qatar, where they are the heavy faves.
www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/tbirds_ ... 61118.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/tbirds_china_0561118.html)

Speaking of Wang Zhi Zhi, I was reading an ESPN The Magazine story on him in the current issue. The article beings with an apology from Wang to the Chinses for being selfish. It talked about coming over to play for the Mavs as a gesture of goodwill from the Chinese government, the Cinese Basketball Association, and the Bayi Rockets, Wang's CBA club leading up to the Chinese getting the 2008 Olympics. The Chinese certainly didn't make it easy for him to be claimed by the NBA. He played OK for the Mavs in the early going and a big contract, but bounced around with the LA Clippers, when he signed as a free agent, and then the Miami Heat. Wang wanted to test himself more in the NBA instead of donning for the Middle Kingdom. He got labeled as soft and ended getting creamed in practices, struggling to keep his roster spot and playing time. Meanwhile, he defied the orders of the Chinese authorities and even the Mavs, whom the former wanted to play for the national team in the summer to qualify for big tournaments. The two even sent reps to look for him in his Dallas townhouse. but he had already left Dallas. He bought himself a Mercedes adn had a child with his girlfriend. He was proclaimed persona non grata in the eyes of the Chinese and threatened to revoke his passport. All the while, Yao Ming, his contemporary became a star amd did everything that was mandated of him by the Chinese (Wang and Yao had Peking duck together once when both were playing in the NBA). With Wang running out of options, he pleaded to get back into their good graces and play on the national team. He got, but not without cost. People's Liberation Army officers watched him like a hawk on his return back--BTW, Bayi is a reference to the PLA's founding date in Chinese, August 1. He has to undergo reeducation classes for being a traitor, and it is uncertain he'll regain his Chinese passport for personal travel at this point. It's very likely, with a tinge of sadness, that he'll never return to the NBA. He's 29 now and in Beijing he'll be 31. Sad.

[Durbansandshark]

NBATV have unvieled its 2006-07 NBDL TV schedule--60 games (but only the first week is shown)
www.nba.com/dleague/dleague_tv_schedule_061121.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/dleague_tv_schedule_061121.html)

The TV fun begins with the Bakersfield Jam take on the NDCELE NBDL Chapter. Why them?? :evil: :evil: :roll:

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL season has just started the other day. The defending champs Albuquerque are undefeated 2-0 atop of the Western Division.

Disturbingly--even though it just started--the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter is also undefeated at 2-0 with (undeserved) wins against Anahiem and Bakersfield. :evil:

The Dakota Wizards are atop of the Eastern Division with two wins themselves.

[Durbansandshark]

At a time when the Idaho Stampede is losing five straight games and still winless, plans are in the NBDL that it could lose its Utah Jazz affiliation as a group is planning to have an expansion team in Orem, Utah for next season.
www.idahostatesman.com/104/story/62425.html (http://www.idahostatesman.com/104/story/62425.html)
www.nba.com/dleague/utah/index.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/index.html)

Hopefully, the NBDL will reinstitute teams back in the southeastern United States for next season too like the Florida Flame.

[Durbansandshark]

I would like to see the NBDL land in Canada. What I'm writing now is surely inspired in part to new pro basketball franchises (in the lower minor leagues) added and coming in the next few years. As you should know if you have been reading my posts, there is clearly pro basketball outside of Hogtown, just not NBA. I think it's going to happen in the next few years when Toronto decides to field its own farm club.

Going by the process of elimination involving the Canadian cities, Vancouver and Montreal would be far too big for it with Vancouver right now a CBA team and may return to the NBA in the future and may like to have one of their own NBDL teams too one day(which I will get to in the new year), likely after 2010. Montreal has little in the way of a pro basketball tradition, so it should stick with the Matrix. Calgary and Edmonton? Lethbridge should be content with the CBA and the upcoming Canadians. I dunno know. Might work. Medium sized cities like Halifax, Winnipeg, Hamilton, Ottawa, Saskatoon, and Quebec City could pull it off. Halifax loves basketball, but is the Nova Scotia economy stable enough for the NDBL at this point or when it hits? Moreover, what about the travel distance and costs? Quebec City might if the ABA Kebs could use the Arkansas RimRockers and the Bakersfield Jam as inspirations to jump to a higher level. That means they would need a bigger facility and deep-pocketed owners. Politically though Toronto might prefer to place a team in predominantly English Canada. Edmonton, Calgary, and Winnipeg may be eliminated for as prairie cities, though Calgary and Winnipeg have strong sporting support in the amatuer ranks. It might try Ottawa to keep it in the province of Ontario, but there's hardly any pro basketball tradition there either, as far as I know. Would the ScotiaBank Place be too big?

My choice would end up being Hamilton. All of the cities in the NBDL right now are, except for NDCELE NDBL Chapter, are in small-to-medium cities. The Canadian steel city is right next door like Geelong is to Melbourne in Victoria. The Copps Coliseum is just right and can scale down some seating for NBDL games, and Hamilton wouldn't worry about being caught in the middle between Buffalo and Toronto.

With Orem, Utah coming next season, the NBDL needs another team to even it out. I already suggested bringing back the Florida Flames, but if that's not possible, why not try Canada?

Friday, November 24

Arkansas RimRockers 88 Tulsa 66ERS 85
Dakota Wizards 114 Sioux Falls 104
Colorado 14ERS 121 Idaho Stampede 104
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 95 Austin Toros 67
NDCELE NBDL 106 Anahiem Arsenal 87

Saturday, November 25

Tulsa 66ERS 115 Arkansas RimRockers 111 OT
Ft. Worth Flyers 111 Austin Toros 96
Dakota Wizards 89 Sioux Falls Skyforce 87
Colorado 14ERS 122 Idaho Stampede 113 OT
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 111 Anahiem Arsenal 79

Sunday, November 26

NDCELE NBDL 90 Bakersfield Jam 84

Tuesday, November 27

NDCELE NBDL 96 Bakersfield Jam 92
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 94 Idaho Stampede 86
Anahiem Arsenal 93 Arkansas RimRockers 92

Wednesday, November 28

Arkansas RimRockers 102 Bakersfield Jam 92

Thursday, November 29

Sioux Falls Skyforce 98 Idaho Stampede 97

Friday, December 1

Tulsa 66ERS 105 Dakota Wizards 102
Sioux Falls Skyforce 100 Idaho Stampede 94
Arknsas RimRockers 124 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 119 2OT
Ft. Worth Flyers 117 Bakersfield Jam 108
Anahiem Arsenal 107 Austin Toros 105 OT
Colorado 14ERS 112 NDCELE NBDL 100 :D

Saturday, December 2

Dakota Wizards 105 Tulsa 66ERS 81
Anahiem Arsenal 111 Austin Toros 106
Ft. Worth Flyers 113 NDCELE NBDL 95 :D

Sunday, December 3

Arkansas RimRockers 112 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 111 OT
Bakersfield Jam 87 Sioux Falls Skyforce 86
Idaho Stampede 99 Colorado 14ERS 86

Monday, December 4

NDCELE NBDL 94 Sioux Falls Skyforce 87

Tuesday, December 5

Dakota Wizards 94 Idaho Stampede 90
Arkansas RimRockers 108 Austin Toros 92
Ft. Worth Flyers 119 Anahiem Arsenal 111

[Durbansandshark]

Wednesday, December 6

Sioux Falls Skyforce 98 NDCELE NBDL 90 :D
Tulsa 66ERS 88 Austin Toros 84

Thursday, December 7

Albuquerque Thunderbirds 101 Anahiem Arsenal 88

Friday, December 8

NDCELE NBDL 90 Tulsa 66ERS 77
Arkansas RimRockers 86 Ft. Worth Flyers 77
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 87 Anahiem Arsenal 80

Saturday, December 9

Tulsa 66ERS 101 Bakersfield Jam 95

Sunday, December 10

Colorado 14ERS 113 NDCELE NBDL 84 :D

Albuquerque's Dijon Thompson has been named NBDL's Performer of the Week today with 25 and 20 points in the last two games for the Thunderbirds propelling them to 5-2. The NDBL champs signed James Edwards formerly of Kent St.

When you were considered one of the best in the sport, it's hard to cope with the mean curveballs life brings. That's what Jason (Jay) Williams is going to through right now. No need to bring what has happened to him up until his preseason trail with the Nets. Since the accident, he lost all of his explosion of course and may have lost his chance at being a Dukie who can reach NBA superstar status. Competition at the NBDL level is unforgiving, now he needs to prove it again in the eyes of NBA execs with the Austin Toros.
www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

Former George Washington star Pops Mensah-Bonsu from the UK gets assigned with Ft. Worth from Dallas. Undrafted, he only played one game logging three minutes coming out of a loaded roster. His overall fundamentals needs works while displaying impressive explosiveness and leaping ability. Ft. Worth time could benefit him.
www.nba.com/dleague/ftworth (http://www.nba.com/dleague/ftworth)

Ex-UCONN Huskie Denham Brown from Toronto currently plays for Tulsa.
www.nba.com/dleague/tulsa (http://www.nba.com/dleague/tulsa)

Chicago Bulls assigned Martynas Andreiuskevicius, whom they picked up in a trade from Cleveland for Eddie Badsen, to Dakota, their farm team.
www.nba.com/dleague/dakota (http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota)

www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

[Durbansandshark]

Ex-Syracuse star G Gerry McNamara signs with the Bakersfield Jam, who are hoping for a jump start to their fortunes . He just came from playing with Olympiakos Pireaus in Greece after trying out as a free agent with the Orlando Magic, but didn't play enough minutes he thought he should be getting. Therefore, he was granted his release from the club. To allow room for Terry Bobbitt was placed on the injured list.
www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/mcnamara_061212.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield/mcnamara_061212.html)

Thursday sees the return to pro basketball for Jason Williams when he and his Austin Toros teammates take on the Dakota Wizards at the Bismarck Civic Center also on Friday.

[Durbansandshark]

Voting for the first-ever players for the NBDL All-Star Game in Las Vegas in February has started. Unfortunately it's only eligible for US and Canadian residents (excluding Quebec. I wonder why...)
www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

Jason Williams scored 14 points in his debut for the Austin Toros last night, but the Toros fell to the Dakota Wizards.
www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

[Durbansandshark]

The Anahiem Arsenal's Tyler Smith has started writing a blog that can be read on the Arsenal's website. Here's his first entry:
www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem/tylersmith_blog.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem/tylersmith_blog.html)

Tuesday, December 12

Tulsa 66ERS 105 Anahiem Arsenal 98

Thursday, December 14

Dakota Wizards 93 Austin Toros 79
Sioux Falls Skyforce 105 Arkansas RimRockers 93
Idaho Stampede 105 Anahiem Arsenal 93

Friday, December 15

Idaho Stampede 96 NDCELE NBDL 86 :D
Dakota Wizards 84 Austin Toros 83
Ft. Worth Flyers 97 Tulsa 66ERS 91
Sioux Falls Skyforce 100 Arkansas RimRockers 93
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 111 Colorado 14ERS 100

Saturday, December 16

Ft. Worth Flyers 110 Tulsa 66ERS 100
Colorado 14ERS 103 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 89
Anahiem Arsenal 89 Bakersfield Jam 74

Sunday, December 15

Sioux Falls Skyforce 99 Austin Toros 94

Andre Brown from the Sioux Falls Skyforce has been named the NBDL's Player Of The Week with four straight double-doubles. He keeps up his production with 21 points and 13 rebounds in their victory over Austin Sunday afternoon. Keeping things with the Skyforce, they have won four in a row.

The Dakota Wizards' bench stepped up in spoiling Jason Williams NBDL's debut. www.bismarcktribune.com/article/2006/12 ... 125542.txt (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/article/2006/12/15/news/sports/local/125542.txt)

Speaking of him, Jason (Jay) Williams writes about his experineces in the NBDL's Austin Toros in his own blog.
www.nba.com/dleague/austin/jaywilliams_blog.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin/jaywilliams_blog.html)
www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)
www.sportsline.com/nba/story/9869394 (http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/9869394)

[Durbansandshark]

The Idaho Stampede nab Luke Jackson waiving David Jackson (no relation) in the process
www.nba.com/dleague/idaho (http://www.nba.com/dleague/idaho)

I voted fot the NDBL All-Stars
I voted for Pops Mensu-Bonsah, Jason Williams, Andre Brown, Dijon Thompson, Yuta Tabutse, Olu Fatummi, Kellenna Azuibuike, and Julius Hodge.

Will vote again soon.

[Durbansandshark]

Ft Worth's Kelenna Azubuike became the first player from the NBDL to make the jump to the NBA on January 2 with him going to Golden St. Nellie obviously has a soft spot for those who played in lower minor leagues. Look at Mario Elie, Manute Bol, and John Starks with his up-tempo styled offense. Wished more NBA coaches did that more but they're all in a win now mode. www.nba.com/dleague/fortwoth (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwoth)

But January is the traditional month where they look for players as they open their wallets and benches to them on 10-day contracts.

Other NBDLers who followed are leading NBDL scorer Andre Brown (Seattle), Dakota's Justin Brown (Sacramento www.nba.com/dleague/dakota (http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota) ), Idaho's Luke Jackson (Los Angeles Clippers'10-day contract www.nba.com/clippers (http://www.nba.com/clippers) and www.nba.com/dleague/idaho (http://www.nba.com/dleague/idaho) ), and Albuquerque's Dijon Thompson (Atlanta www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque (http://www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque)). Three NBDL alums are already waived (Andreas Glynidakis, Anthony Robinson, and Desmond Farmer). Shopuld go without saying but players like the aforementioned should be forewarned not to neccessarily get their hopes up in their NBA promotion as they aspire to a NBA lifestyle and instant gratification. Also, will they get decent minutes to show what they can do?

www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL's big problem is that the culture of basketball is still not really accepting basketball on a minor league level here in the United States and Canada, ala baseball and (ice) hockey. Another thing: excluding teams from the ABA and CBA, most of the teams in the league past and present are based in small city areas that are not really immediately known for its local basketball culture like Bakersfield, California. So coaches and players resist sending player down there and attendance figures aren't known on the league's website or made public in the box scores. Former ESPN writer Scott Ostler chronicles the Bakersfield Jam as it struggles in its first season in the NBDL. Scott, there are also two pro leagues in Africa--one in Angola and the other in Morocco.
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f ... NF23O1.DTL (http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/chronicle/archive/2007/01/09/SPG79NF23O1.DTL)

[Durbansandshark]

Come check the big NBDL Showcase that took place this past Martin Luther King Day weekend in Sioux Falls all through a blog.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/showcaseblog07.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/showcaseblog07.html)

There are a few female refs actively officiating the NBDL along with the men working their way up the NBA ladder, and many impress.
www.tulsaworld.com/SportsStory.asp?ID=0 ... mal11555_0 (http://www.tulsaworld.com/SportsStory.asp?ID=070111_Sp_B6_Femal11555_0)

Seattle sends their draft pick Mouhamed Sene from Senegal to Idaho
Dallas assigns Jose Barea to Ft. Worth.

December 18
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 111 Colorado 14ERS 104
Dakota Wizards 85 Austin Toros 84
Ft. Worth Flyers 97 Tulsa 66ERS 91
Idaho Stampede 96 NDCELE NBDL 86 :)
Sioux Falls Skyforce 100 Arkansas RimRockers 93

December 19
Colorado 14ERS 103 Albuquerque 89
Anahiem Arsenal 89 Bakersfield Jam 74
Ft. Worth Flyers 110 Tulsa 66ERS 100

December 20
Sioux Falls Skyforce 99 Austin Toros 94

December 21
NDCELE NBDL 96 Dakota Wizards 91
Ft. Worth Flyers 111 Sioux Falls 106
Tulsa 66ERS 120 Bakersfield Jam 117 (2OT)

December 22
NDCELE NBDL 92 Bakersfield Jam 86
Ft. Worth Flyers 132 Anahiem Arsenal 122
Idaho Stampede 96 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 91
Sioux Falls Skyforce 106 Austin Toros 100
Bakersfield Jam 116 Tulsa 66ERS 106
Dakota Wizards @ Colorado 14ERS--ppd(blizzard)

December 23
Bakersfield Jam 90 Arkansas RimRockers 88
NDCELE NBDL 103 Austin Toros 97
Colorado 14ERS 130 Dakota Wizards 105
Sioux Falls Skyforce 101 Dakota Wizards 100
Idaho Stampede 92 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 80
Anahiem Arsenal 88 Tulsa 66ERS 78

December 25
Sioux Falls Skyforce 120 Colorado 14ERS 110

December 26 (Boxing Day)
NDCELE NBDL 105 Austin Toros 87

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL announced another expansion team to join Orem, Utah today. This team will call the Rio Grande Valley in south Texas home boosting the league number to 14 teams next season. This has got to be the Rio Grande Valley Silverados, that ABA expansion team that is scheduled to play next season with its stellar and critically-acclaimed logo, coming in. Because I can't see any pro basketball team on the horizon coming in that area in another league. My theory is that once the Silverado investors looked at the state of the ABA, they decided to go for a more all-around stable and professional basketball league in the NBDL.
www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley/index.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley/index.html)

Luke Jackson returns to the Idaho Stampede: www.nba.com/dleague/idaho (http://www.nba.com/dleague/idaho)

[Durbansandshark]

Actually I stand corrected on the NBDL taking the Silverados from the ABA. But what I said was based on precedent with the Jam and RimRockers. It must be noted that, as it stands now, the ABA Rio Grande Valley Silverados are slated to play their home games at the McAllen Convention Center in McAllen, Texas, slated to open in a couple of months while the NBDL's Rio Grande Valley team's home court is the Dodge Arena in Hildago, Texas. How could that region be home and big enough to two minor pro basketball teams? Both sides are optimistic.
www.themonitor.com/SiteProcessor.cfm?Te ... tion=Local (http://www.themonitor.com/SiteProcessor.cfm?Template=/GlobalTemplates/Details.cfm&StoryID=17528&Section=Local)

There are rumours that Ft. Wayne, Indiana will field a NBDL franchise in time for next season boosting its presence in the Midwest. Ft. Wayne was of course the original home for the Detroit Pistons as the Ft. Wayne Zollner Pistons and the longtime home for the Ft. Wayne Fury in the CBA.

Wednesday, December 27
Colorado 14ERS 112 Anahiem Arsenal 110
Dakota Wizards 110 Idaho Stampede 102

Thursday, December 28
Austin Toros 75 Sioux Falls Skyforce 62

Friday, December 29
Tulsa 66ERS 102 Arkansas RimRockers 98 (OT)
Bakersfield Jam 93 NDCELE NBDL 86 :D
Dakota Wizards 124 Colorado 14ERS 112
Idaho Stampede 108 Ft. Worth Flyers 98
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 111 Sioux Falls Skyforce 104

Saturday, December 30
Anahiem Arsenal 101 Bakersfield Jam 91
Tulsa 66ERS 110 Arkansas RimRockers 106
Idaho Stampede 101 Austin Toros 84
Ft. Worth Flyers 116 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 102

Sunday, December 31
Dakota Wizards 108 Colorado 14ERS 106

Wednesday, January 3
Colorado 14ERS 130 Tulsa 66ERS 108

Thursday, January 4
Idaho Stampede 95 Anahiem Arsenal 73
Austin Toros 87 Bakersfield Jam 85

Friday, January 5
Austin Toros 96 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 88
Ft. Worth Flyers 115 Arkansas RimRockers 94
Dakota Wizards 104 NDCELE NBDL 101 :D
Sioux Falls Skyforce 123 Tulsa 66ERS 112

Saturday, January 6
Anahiem Arsenal 111 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 103
Colorado 14ERS 129 Bakersfield Jam 113
Ft. Worth Flyers 107 Arkansas RimRockers 99
Tulsa 66ERS 119 Sioux Falls Skyforce 115

Sunday, January 7
Dakota Wizards 105 Anahiem Arsenal 88
Colorado 14ERS 109 Bakersfield Jam 103
Idaho Stampede 97 NDCELE NBDL 75 :D

Tuesday, January 9
Colorado 14ERS 95 Austin Toros 90

Wednesday, January 10
Idaho Stampede 92 Bakersfield Jam 80

Thursday, January 11
Austin Toros 104 Anahiem Arsenal 87

More on Luke Jackson's return to Idaho: during his 10-day contract with the LA Clippers, his performance with them was an average of 5.3 minutes with 1 ppg and 1 apg.

Detroit Pistons have recalled Amir Johnson from the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Damone Brown has just returned to the NBDL with the Skyforce after a stint most recently with Japan's OSG Phoenix. He's very well known to NBDL fans. www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls (http://www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls)

The story on that raw Senegalese talent that is Seattle SuperSonics draft pick Mouhamed Sene, currently honing his game with Idaho. The Stampede BTW are on a 11-game win streak. Speaking of the Sonics, they signed Andre Brown for the remainder of the season. www.idhaostatesman.com/104/story/68765.html (http://www.idhaostatesman.com/104/story/68765.html)

Austin Toros traded F-C Scott Merrill to Tulsa for G Chayne Gadson in an effort to boost its low-post presence while providing an instant offensive spark for Austin's anemic backcourt.

Austin Toros mascot Da Bull gets issued a technical for hanging on the rim, suspended for two games, and has to perform 50 hours of community service all for that. Bizarre... www.statesman.com/sports/content/sports ... toros.html (http://www.statesman.com/sports/content/sports/stories/other/01/25/25toros.html)

For more on the games and transactions, visit the NBDL site at www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

[Durbansandshark]

Brandt Andersen, the man who brought the NBDL to Orem, Utah, has his own blog. www.nba.com/dleague/utah/brandtandersen_blog.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah/brandtandersen_blog.html)

NBDL shooting coach John Townsend has his own too: www.nba.com/dleague/johntownsend_blog.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/johntownsend_blog.html)

With their teams on top of their respective divisions, the Ft. Worth Flyers' (18-8) Sidney Moncrief and the Colorado 14ERS' (19-8) Joe Wolf became the first ever coaches for the NBDL All-Star Game. Their coaching staffs, like in the case of their big brother's gala, automatically go too. One big difference is that their trainers go with them.

Mates, I'd like to present to you the All-Stars for the first ever 2007 Gillette NBDL All-Star Game in association with 24 Hour Fitness. The game of course will serve as part of the 2007 NBA All-Star Weekend extravaganza in Las Vegas:

Eastern NBDL All-Stars
Will Conroy G Tulsa
BJ Elder G Austin
Renaldo Major G Dakota
Clay Tucker G Arkansas
Alan Anderson F Tulsa
Stephen Graham F Sioux Falls
Pops Mensah-Bonsu F Ft. Worth
James White F Austin
Jared Reiner C Sioux Falls
Loren Woods C Austin

Western NBDL All-Stars
Pooh Jeter G Colorado
Randy Livingston G Idaho
Von Wafer G Colorado
Louis Admundsen F Colorado
Kevinn Pinkney F Bakersfield
Dijon Thompson F Albuquerque
Jawad Adams F Anahiem
Elton Brown C Colorado
Peter John Ramos C Idaho
Brian Chase G NDCELE NBDL

Assistants: Paul Mokeski (Ft. Worth/East) and Kent Davidson (Colorado/West)
Trainers: Takashi Onuki (Ft. Worth/East) and Mark Morrissey (Colorado/West)

It's no surprise that the ones selected by fans and coaches are ones who had at least a little NBA callup or experience. I actually voted for a few of the NBDL All-Stars that made it to the game like Mensah-Bonsu, Dijon Thompson, and Loren Woods (who's a native of my area and the NBDL's Performer of the Week). This should be a very good game coming up next weekend.
www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3423616 (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3423616)

The Golden St. Warriors sign Renaldo Major on January 27.
Atlanta signed Flyers guard Jeremy Richardson.
Memphis Grizzlies sign Tulsa 66ERS guard Will Conroy, the NBDL's league leader in triple doubles.
Utah callup Louis Admundsen from Colorado.
Milwaukee recall the underused Damir Markota from Tulsa.
Bakersfield adds Mateen Cleaves to their roster www.nba.com/bakersfield (http://www.nba.com/bakersfield)
Toronto recalls P.J. Tucker from Colorado.

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)
www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)

Scores will arrive tomorrow

[Durbansandshark]

To fill up a roster opening caused by Louis Admundsen's departure to the Utah Jazz, the Colorado 14ERS sign guard Jason McKrieth
www.nba.com/dleague/colorado/ (http://www.nba.com/dleague/colorado/)

Milwaukee signs Jerald McReiner from Sioux Falls to a 10-day contract. www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls (http://www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls)

Friday, January 12
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 100 Colorado 14ERS 92
Dakota Wizards 119 Tulsa 66ERS 99
Idaho Stampede 101 Bakersfield Jam 99
Austin Toros 108 NDCELE NBDL 97 :D
Sioux Falls Skyforce 104 Arkansas RimRockers 98

Saturday, January 13
Ft. Worth Flyers 117 Albuquqerque Thunderbirds 98
Anahiem Arsenal 115 Arkansas RimRockers 112
Idaho Stampede 107 Sioux Falls Skyforce 101
Colorado 14ERS 121 Tulsa 66ERS 118 OT

Sunday, January 14
Dakota Wizards 114 Anahiem Arsenal 94

Monday, January 15
Dakota Wizards 95 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 94
Sioux Falls Skyforce 101 Austin Toros 81
NDCLELE NBDL 111 Ft. Worth Flyers 103
Idaho Stampede 100 Arkansas RimRockers 87

Tuesday, January 16
Tulsa 66ERS 100 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 97
Idaho Stampede 88 Anahiem Arsenal 77
Bakersfield Jam 99 Arkansas RimRockers 89
Colorado 14ERS 103 NDCELE NBDL 85 :D

Wednesday, January 17
Bakersfield Jam 102 Austin Toros 96 OT
Colorado 14ERS 126 Dakota Wizards 116
Sioux Falls Skyforce 117 Ft. Worth Flyers 107
Anahiem Arsenal 107 Tulsa 66ERS 92

Friday, January 19
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 91 NDCELE NBDL 81 :D
Sioux Falls Skyforce 127 Arkansas RimRockers 105
Austin Toros 105 Tulsa 66ERS 89
Idaho Stampede 101 Bakersfield Jam 83
Anahiem Arsenal 124 Colorado 14ERS 116
Dakota Wizards 113 Ft. Worth Flyers 111

Saturday, January 20
NDCELE NBDL 112 Albuqerque Thunderbirds 104
Sioux Falls Skyforce 118 Arkansas RimRockers 88
Austin Toros 88 Tulsa 66ERS 81
Colorado 14ERS 122 Anahiem Arsenal 102
Ft. Worth Flyers 103 Dakota Wizards 96

Sunday, January 21
Idaho Stampede 109 Bakersfield Jam 85

Monday, January 22
NDCELE NBDL 100 Albuquerque Thunderbirds 88

[Durbansandshark]

Yesterday, the NBDL announced replacement players for its first ever All-Star Game.

Ft. Worth's Luke Schenscher will replace Sioux Falls' Jareld McReiner, who was called up by Milwaukee at centre (center). That's great for all of you mates down there.

Colorado's Rick Rickert will replace his called up teammate Louis Admundsen at center for the West.

Dakota forward Quemont Greer takes over Austin's James White's spot in the East after White gets recalled to San Antonio.

As a reminder, the first ever Gillette NBDL All-Star Game with association from 24 Hour Fitness will be on NBATV live at 4pm US CST from Las Vegas during the NBA Jam Session. (I hope you're not unlucky in Australia and New Zealand) :)
www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)
www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp (http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp)
www.nba.com/allstar2007/dleague_allstar ... 70214.html (http://www.nba.com/allstar2007/dleague_allstar_replacements_070214.html)
www.nba.com/dleague/allstar2007 (http://www.nba.com/dleague/allstar2007)

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Remember when I dropped the news of Des Moines possibly getting a team in the NBDL?It will come to frutition in a matter of a couple of weeks. (http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20010215/SPORTS14/702150431/-1/BUSINESS04/)

[Durbansandshark]

In loving memory of Dennis Johnson...

Austin Toros coach Dennis Johnson's sudden death following a Toros' practice from a heart attack, needless to say, has sent shockwaves throughout the league. It happened 22 minutes after a one-on-one game with Jamar Smith. He was also the first coach of the Florida Flame on the road to professional recovery from a horrible domestic dispute with his wife. He worked himself up from as a 5-9 high school benchwarmer to a workhouse forklifter to Pepperdine standout and 1979 NBA Finals MVP with Seattle to one of the best defenders the NBA had ever seen armed with a high basketball IQ that was seemed destined to a lasting NBA head coaching job. A memorial was held almost two Sundays ago with several Celtics, Sonics, and Suns stars attending. Two Toros games were postponed because of this. Austin forward Jamal Smith had a Toros home jersey with the number 3, what Johnson wore in his Celtics days, was draped over DJ's usual seat on the bench. In their first game since his death against the Colorado 14ERS, the Toros showed the usual stuff prior to it:video retrospective tribute, words from Toros execs and players, special music, and moment of silence. The loss stopped a six-game winning streak. The Toros are also wearing a commemorative patch in DJ's memory for the remainder of the season. Because of this, Dale Osbourne was promoted to head coach with Anahiem's head coach Larry Smith becoming his assistant for the rest of the season. I knew Dennis wanted them back on court as soon as possible after the mourning period. www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

On to more positive stuff in the NBDL

The first ever Gillette NBDL All-Star Game presented by 24 Hour Fitness at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas was low-key affair compared to what its much older brother had to offer as you would expect. It was like a distant undercard fight with NBA scouts checking what the highest minor league has to offer with its premier talent. But the game was intense from start to finish unlike the NBA players coasting in the first quarter and turning things up a couple of notches later on. These players, when granted a fair chance, can play at the NBA level no doubt. Bakersfield's Gerry McManara and Idaho's Rondell Taylor were additional replacements. Former George Washington star Pops Mensah-Bonsu of Ft. Worth was named the first ever All-Star MVP with his 30 points 7 rebounds and 2 blocks to give the East a 114-100 victory. Pops, though undersized as a power forward, displays great athleticism that will serve him well in the NBA. He is very highlight-worthy with his emphatic blocks and dunks, but he lacks an array of low-post moves. Needs to work on his shooting and may serve as a spark plug off the bench. He'll have a great future playing for Great Britain internationally as it boosts its talents. Aussie Luke Schenscher had a good All-Star game coming off the bench by running effectively and taking passes, even hard ones and converting them into baskets. As a post player though, there wasn't much to see. He had 15 points and 6 rebounds.
www.insidehoops.com/d-league-all-star.shtml (http://www.insidehoops.com/d-league-all-star.shtml)
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/allstar20 ... id=2770025 (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/allstar2007/news/story?id=2770025)

George "The Iceman" Gervin may very well end up getting involved with the expansion RGV NBDL team in the front office with a couple of coaching candidates to be examined. (http://www.themonitor.com/onsetid?=479&template=article.html)

Because of Dennis Johnson's death, Anahiem Arsenal coach Larry Smith resigned to become the Toros' assistant for the rest of the season. No replacement has been named for the Arsenal as of yet. Speaking of them, it's tough to get noticed in an off-Broadway-like setting like in Orange County with so many other stuff competing for the family dollar. And that's not counting the ABA's expansion Orange County Gladiators coming next season. But those who do come to watch enjoy the experience. It's up to fans there and elsewhere to develop a curiousity and look for stuff like this, or else it will go the way of the Southern California Surf and Anahiem Amigos (to say nothing of the phantom ABA Anahiem Roadrunners)--nice to see their histories mentioned briefly here. www.latimes.com/news/printedition/calif ... &cset=true (http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/california/la-me-arsenal29jan29,1,7887673.story?coll=la-headlines-pe-california&ctrack=1&cset=true)

Des Moines is officially the latest NBDL city awarded an expansion team, as expected. (http://www.nba.com/dleague/iowa/) Team will called Iowa, and its home games will be at the Wells Fargo Arena.

Profile on Sioux Falls Skyforce coach Morris McHone, one of the best teachers in the minor league game: www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?A ... 42/1127%A0 (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070307/SPORTS0102/703070342/1127%A0)

A more detailed look at the transactions inside the NBDL recently
www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=1899 (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=1899)

[Durbansandshark]

The roster of teams must be even come next season. Here's how it could stand:

Bakersfield Jam
Anahiem Arsenal
Idaho Stampede
Utah
Colorado 14ERS
Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Tulsa 66ERS
NDCELE NBDL Chapter (must cease operations :evil: )

Dakota Wizards
Rio Grande Valley
Austin Toros
Ft. Worth Flyers
Sioux Falls Skyforce
Des Moines
Ft. Wayne/Florida Flame


Score and more will return next week.

[Durbansandshark]

I called it, sorta. Ft. Wayne will join the NBDL next season (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2007/04/11/news/sports/local/131780.txt) as it returns to pro basketball, and it's easy to assume that the Indiana Pacers (and maybe the Detroit Pistons, of all teams, with them). Also here (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne). And Fort Wanye's coverage (http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/newssentinel/sports/17052195.htm).

The NBDL Coach of the Year Award is now renamed in memory of the late Austin Toros coach Dennis Johnson. Idaho's Brian Gates was announced today (Wednesday) as the winner of that award.

Nick Nurse, former University of Northern Iowa star, will coach the Des Moines expansion team. Gary Garner joins as Nurse's assistant. www.nba.com/dleague/iowa/ (http://www.nba.com/dleague/iowa/)

More will come later...

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL playoff season started.

Western Conference
Colorado 14ERS vs. Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Winner gets to face Idaho Stampede for the West title

Eastern Conference
Sioux Falls Skyforce vs. Ft. Worth Flyers
Winner gets to face Dakota Wizards

Best thing about it: NO NDCELE NBDL CHAPTER IN THE PLAYOFFS AT ALL!!!! :)

NBATV will have the playoff coverage.

Utah's new NBDL team announced their new name and GM. Please welcome the Utah Flash (no word whether it's in tribute to Dwayne Wade or the DC Comics superhero, but it does use black, red, and white from the Heat's colo(u)rs). Nice logo. Flash beat out Dash, Dynos, and Heroes. Dabvid Fredman is the Flash's GM. www.nba.com/dleague/utah (http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah)

I suggest that Ft. Wayne should hire former Indiana Mr. Basketball Damon Bailey as its first head coach. Maybe even call it the Fury like its old longstanding CBA team.

[Durbansandshark]

Sunday, we will have a new NBDL champ when the expansionist Colorado 14ERS travel to Bismark to face the Dakota Wizards.

Before then, the Dakota Wizards, who got a bye to the Eastern Division Championship, defeated the visiting Sioux Falls Skyforce 115-113. The Skyforce couldn't hold that 5-point lead to begin the fourth quarter. Frank Williams scored a game-high 30 points in a losing effort.

Sioux Falls knocked off Ft. Worth in the opening semifinal 125-108.

Over in the West, Colorado edged the Idaho Stampede on the road 94-91 in OT Friday. Antonie Hood drained two free throws in seven seconds in overtime to seal the victory. Elton Brown netted 26 points and 12 boards. Pooh Jeter had 19 points and dished nine assists. Brown was named NBDL Performance Player of the Week. The 14ERS ended the reign of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds as NBDL champs 130-100 despite Dijon Thompson scoring 24 points for the Albuquerque Wednesday.

Louis Admundson, now with Philadelphia, was named NBDL Rookie of the Year.

www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

[Durbansandshark]

Your new NBDL champs are the Dakota Wizards who clinched it at home in front of their Bismarck fans, who set a new NBDL postseason attendance record (5322), in overtime against the new Colorado 14ERS Sunday night 129-121.

Darius Rice, former Miami Hurricane and nephew of NFL legend Jerry Rice, man, what a night for him! He came off the bench and scored 52 points including 11 three-pointers with one at the 4.5 second mark at regulation to tie it at 109 all.

Dakota becomes the second NBDL team in the league's six year history to win the title at home. Tonight a celebration will be held at a golf course. Fans are invited to attend.

Tough loss for Colorado despite erasing a 8-point halftime deficit. Pooh Jeter scored 30 points and 8 assists, Elton Brown netted 22 points and hauled 12 rebounds, and Tony Bobbitt had 29 in a losing effort.

www.nba.com/dleague/dakota (http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota)
www.nba.com/dleague/colorado (http://www.nba.com/dleague/colorado)
www.nba.com/dleague (http://www.nba.com/dleague)

David Stern seems pleased with the NBDL and with the Bismarck market (the smallest in the NBDL) local ownership as it implements experimental features to enhance the game. That flop of a basketball in the NBA still exists in the NBDL.
www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2007/0 ... 132534.txt (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2007/04/26/news/sports/local/132534.txt)

Congrats to the Dakota Wizards on their championship season!

[Durbansandshark]

41 NBDL players made the NBA playoffs. Out of them, 18 players had their teams eliminated.
www.nba.com/dleague/nba_playoffs_070429.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/nba_playoffs_070429.html)

Rio Grande Valley's NBDL team hopes it has some bite for its fans--they will be called the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. When there's the logo, I'll link it.
www.themonitor.com/onset?db=monitortx&i ... ticle.html (http://www.themonitor.com/onset?db=monitortx&id=2183&template=article.html)

[Durbansandshark]

La Crosse, Wisconsin may get the Arkansas RimRockers but arena dates are critical. www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/0 ... 00lead.txt (http://www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/05/08/sports/00lead.txt)
www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/0 ... meyers.txt (http://www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/05/06/sports/01meyers.txt)

Former Texas-Pan American coach Bob Hoffman was officially introduced as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers head coach.
www.themonitor.com/onset?id=2072&template=article.html (http://www.themonitor.com/onset?id=2072&template=article.html)

[Durbansandshark]

It was officially announced the RGV Vipers will act as the Spurs' farm team.
Because they will play at the Dodge Arena in Hildalgo, Texas, there's some speculation it was named in reference to that--Dodge Motors has a car named the Viper.

Four names for the new Ft. Wayne team survived the cut: Lightning, Coyotes, Mad Ants, and Fire.

If the RimRockers don't move to LaCrosse, it could very well fold.

[Durbansandshark]

Utah Flash name Jazz scout Brad Jones their first head coach.
www.nba.com/dleague/utah (http://www.nba.com/dleague/utah)

Idaho Stampede will host the 2008 D-League Showcase
www.nba.com/dleague/idaho (http://www.nba.com/dleague/idaho)

Former Roanoke Dazzle coach Kent Davidson will coach the new Ft. Wayne NBDL expansion team.

George Gervin is an exec for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

After negotiations seemd dead for the Arkansas RimRockers to move to LaCrosse, Wisconsin, talks sprang back to life in the hopes of getting LaCrosse's first pro basketball team since the CBA's Catbirds.
www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/0 ... 00lead.txt (http://www.lacrossetribune.com/articles/2007/05/18/sports/00lead.txt)

[Durbansandshark]

As you may know former Ft. Worth Flyers coach Sam Vincent was hired to succeed Bernie Bickerstaff in Charlotte. Surely the move pleases His Royal Airness as he was a teammate of Vincent in his early Bulls days.
www.nba.com/bobcats (http://www.nba.com/bobcats)

Bigger news out of the NBDL, NDBL President Phil Evans will resign on July 1. Matt Wurst takes a look at Evans' legacy in the NBDL (http://www.nba.com/dleague/features/wurst_070530.html).

The NBDL will hold a pre-draft camp on July 28-29 in Arlington, Texas.
www.nba.com/dleague/predraft_camp_07.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/predraft_camp_07.html)

More on the Ft. Wayne nicknames (can't use Fury?):
Coyotes (team will be aggressive and hungry like a pack of wolves)
Mad Ants (salute to General "Mad" Anthony Wayne)
Lightning (team will be quick as lightning and rain down thunderous dunks)
Fire (players will shoot so well they will be on fire)
Contest ends June 6

[Durbansandshark]

Former Missouri Tigers coach and Coach Krzyzewski protege Quin Snyder lands in the Texas state capital of Austin to coach the Austin Toros. He officially succeeds the late Dennis Johnson who died on February 22 but he actually follows interims Dale Osboune and Larry Smith. Good to see Coach Q back coaching, particularly with those who aren't really that far removed from college. So it's like back to college coaching in a sense.
www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

Effective July 1, Dan Reed will take over from Phil Evans as NBDL President.

Reggie Geary took over at the helm of the Anaheim Arsenal's head coaching post following Larry Smith's departure to Austin.

[Durbansandshark]

Bad news for Arkansas RimRocker fans (and those who hoped they were making their way to LaCrosse, Wisconsin): talks fell through between its owner Larry Crain (he hoped to move them from Little Rock for the team's attendance at the Alltell Arena dipped that it wouldn't justify their lease there) and the LaCrosse Center due to the fact neither party fail to agree because the LaCrosse Center's lease demands were higher than Little Rock's.

So the RimRockers, like the Florida Flame before them, will be inactive for next season and hope to return in 2008-09.

[Durbansandshark]

After spending $3 million without turning a profit and making the NBDL postseason in their two seasons of existence, the Ft. Worth Flyers are headed out of the city and of the dreary Convention Center, possibly reforming in perhaps Reno. Another team could land there due to Ft. Worth's very close proximity to Dallas. Plus, there's even worse factors. www.star-telegram.com/287/story/135183.html (http://www.star-telegram.com/287/story/135183.html)

[Durbansandshark]

The Iceman gives an interview to the Rio Grande Valley Monitor:
www.themonitor.com/sports/_2647_article.html/_.html (http://www.themonitor.com/sports/_2647_article.html/_.html)
Vipers expect a Houston Rockets affiliation.

If the NBA, specifically the Milwaukee Bucks, doesn't come calling, Morris McHone would stay in Sioux Falls.
www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic ... /706050336 (http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070605/SPORTS0302/706050336)

[Durbansandshark]

Prospective names for Des Moines expansion team:

Corncobs
Maize
River Rats
Throughbreds
Scarecrows

I like Scarecrows.

[Durbansandshark]

The Mad Ants are coming! Mom! Mom! Throw out some money for their games! The Mad Ants are coming! (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne) :lol:

(I'm in a little of a Eddie Murphy Delirious mood right now)

[Durbansandshark]

The Rio Grande Valley Vipers unviel their logo to the public.
www.themonitor.com/sports/logo_3293_art ... alley.html (http://www.themonitor.com/sports/logo_3293_article.html/vipers_valley.html)

Idaho Stampede coach may end up coaching the Sonics' Summer Pro League in Vegas.

Dave Joerger will leave the NBDL champs Dakota for a spot as one of new Memphis Grizzlies' coach Marc Iavaroni's assistants.
www.nba.com/dleague/dakota (http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota)

[Durbansandshark]

The Des Moines NBDL expansion team was named on Friday, but it's not going to be called by one of the aforementioned names listed in the fans' name the team contest, because of general fan dislike of the names selected and offered (too much obvious references to corn in Iowa for thing--I did like Scarecrows though). So I now present to you the Iowa Energy. Affiliation will be with the Chicago Bulls next season.
www.nba.com/dleague/iowa (http://www.nba.com/dleague/iowa)

[Durbansandshark]

Anahiem Arsenal signed Reggie Geary to be their new head coach
www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem (http://www.nba.com/dleague/anahiem)

[Durbansandshark]

Here are your NBDL team/NBA affiliations for the 2007-08 season:

Alberquerque Thunderbirds--Philadephia, Phoenix
Anahiem Arsenal--Atlanta, Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando
Austin Toros--San Antonio
Bakersfield Jam--Golden St., Sacramento
Colorado 14ERS--Denver, New Jersey, Toronto
Dakota Wizards--Memphis, Washington
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants--Detroit, Indiana
Idaho Stampede--Portland, Seattle
Iowa Energy--Chicago, Miami
NDCELE NBDL Chapter--NDCELE :evil:
Rio Grande Valley Vipers--Cleveland, Houston, New Orleans
Sioux Falls Skyforce--Charlotte, Minnesota
Tulsa 66ERS--Dallas, Milwaukee, New York
Utah Flash--Boston, Utah

[Durbansandshark]

On Draft Day, the San Antonio Spurs, a team that wrongheadedly and shamefully made its way to the NBA title under very dubious circumstances, took ownership of the Austin Toros from Southwest Basketball LLC under David Kahn.

Jeff Ruland, the former Bruise Brother in his Washington Bullets days as McFilthy, became the new head coach for the Albequerque Thunderbirds replacing Michael Cooper who went back to the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire WNBA Chapter. Ruland lands back into coaching after undeservedly being ran out of alma mater for a 2-28 (1-17 in MAAC) and blamed assistant Paul Dombrow for its abysmal record. But not before taking the Gaels to three NCAA Tournament appearances (2000, 2006, 2001) and three MAAC titles.

A better look at the Rio Grande Valley Vipers logo than from Rio Monitor: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rio_Grande_Valley_Vipers

[Durbansandshark]

A group of NBDL All-Stars with head coach Larry Smith went to China (Guangzhou and Macao to be exact) to play in the third annual FIBA Stankovic Cup, a cup tournament hono(u)ring FIBA President Emeritus Boris Stankovic, to face the hosts China, New Zealand, Venezuela, and Slovenia. The NBDL Ambassadors finished third with a 3-2 record losing to China in their final game 82-67. Yi Jianlian scopred 28 points while teammate and former NBAer Wang ZhiZhi netted 19.
www.nba.com/dleague/stankovic_cup_070717.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/stankovic_cup_070717.html)
www.nba.com/dleague/stankovic_recap_070802.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/stankovic_recap_070802.html)

Shawn Respert has a blog on the NBDL Ambassadors travels there: www.nba.com/dleague/respert_blog.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/respert_blog.html)

FINAL NBDL STANDINGS
East Division
Dakota Wizards 33-17
Sioux Falls Skyforce 30-20
Ft. Worth Flyers 29-21
Tulsa 66ERS 21-29
Austin Toros 21-29
Arkansas RimRockers 16-34

West Division
Idaho Stampede 33-17
Colorado 14ERS 28-22
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 24-26
Anahiem Arsenal 23-27
NDCELE NBDL Chapter 23-27
Bakersfield Jam 19-31

[Durbansandshark]

Morris McHone moves on from Sioux Falls and becomes the new Director of Basketball Development for the Austin Toros. McHone is, you may recall, the forgotten coach from the Spurs' low era back in 1984. www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

Because of this the Skyforce promote assistant Nate Tibbetts to head coach.
www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls (http://www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls)

Fort Wayne Mad Ants announce their inaugural dance team, the Madame Ants: www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne)

Could Reno join the NBDL? After what happened with the ABA's Reno Rockers and the proposed CBA's Northern Nevada Blackjacks, the NBDL might be more suitable for Reno. It could come as early as 2008-09 season playing at the Reno Events Center. http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic ... ws.rgj.com (http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070630/NEWS18/70629046&oaso=news.rgj.com)

[Durbansandshark]

The Spurs ownership of the Toros has taken on expected turns, witness the new logo Austin has as evidence of Spurs connections at work.
www.nba.com/dleague/austin (http://www.nba.com/dleague/austin)

[Durbansandshark]

Here's something that should make the NBDL feel good about the city where the franchises are: Sports Business Journal declared Boise (Idaho Stampede), Ft. Wayne, Indiana (Ft. Worth Mad Ants), and Sioux Falls (Sioux Falls Skyforce) among the top 10 in the best minor-league sports cities. Bakersfiled (Bakersfield Jam) just missed the top 10 cut.
www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/139075.html (http://www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/139075.html)

Bakersfield Jam point guard Gerry McNamera has signed a contract to play for Panionios in the Greek League. He previously played for Olympiakos Pireaus, also located in the Athens area.

Albuquerque Thunderbirds announced their 2007-08 Storm Chaser cheerleading squad: www.abqtbirds.com (http://www.abqtbirds.com)

[Durbansandshark]

The Mavericks waive the high-flying Pops Mensah-Bonsu, a 15th Man for them when called up, which makes him a free agent. Maybe Pops should've played for Team GB in their Eurobasket Division B games to help out Deng and Archibald.

The Bucks waive Damir Markota. With Yi signed and a very interesting and crowded frontcourt, how was Markota going to compete against what was ahead of him in the pecking order during training camp?

Bob Thorton got hired as an assistant under Nate Tibbets with the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

Hope the new NBDL gear in jerseys are more on the variety side in style than just standard.

I'll return with the NBDL drafts next time.

[Durbansandshark]

Monday afternoon witnessed the assuming of former NBA player and Michigan St. Spartan star Shawn Respert in the role of the NBDL's Director of Basketball Operations. www.nba.com/dleague/news/respert_070110.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/respert_070110.html)

NBA training camp hits with a list of NDBLers in the teams they're trying out for those precious few roster spots out of the 15-man NBA team rosters. Here's the list--www.nba.com/dleague/news/nba_training_camps_07.html

The 2007-08 NBDL schedule: www.nba.com/dleague/schedule (http://www.nba.com/dleague/schedule)

The expansion draft results are here: www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3537602 (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3537602)

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL Draft 2007 will take place on November 1 with the Colorado 14ERS taking the first pick. Iowa Energy will get the last pick of the first round but the first in the second.

www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_071012.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_071012.html)

[Durbansandshark]

44 NBDL alums made the Opening Tip Off rosters for the 2007-08 season.

Your NBDL 2007 Draft Results: www.nba.com/dleague/news/dleague_draft_07.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dleague_draft_07.html)
Former NZ Breaker Carlos Powell was drafted second in the draft. James Peterson and Brian Wethers were drafted by Bakersfield

[Durbansandshark]

A progressively intriguing idea is bubbling in the NBDL, David Stern wants to have a team in Harlem for the league. Perhaps this will be the catalyst that will grant the NBDL more appeal. With the legendary NYC neighborhood's important contribution to basketball and African-Americans' relationship with the sport, it could ressurect the famed Rens on its 84th anniversary of its first game. It's the home of the Rucker Basketball League and the Entertainers League. So with the NBA's league offices, the Knicks, and the NJ Nets all in the vicinity to boot, I think it'll make perfect sense all around. Even more so, Stern would love to have African-American NBDL owners, particularly for Harlem.

Where this proposed team play at is just as intriguing: Harlem Renasscience is sadly abandonded for years, and it can use a lot of work. Harlem is now getting a rapid gentrification with Bill Clinton holding down an office a stone's throw away. Also the Knicks and MSG are said to be interested.
www.nytimes.com/2007/11/12/sports/baske ... ref=slogin (http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/12/sports/basketball/12rholden.html?_r2&ref=sports&oref=slogin&oref=slogin)

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL season kicks off Friday. Black Friday to many of us Yanks and Canadians.

Dallas sends second-rounder Nick Fazekas (formerly of Nevada-Reno Wolfpack) to Tulsa.

Ian Mahini (sp?) goes down to Austin.

The NBDL previews:

Southwest Division (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/southwest_preview_071116.html)

Western Division (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/western_division_071116.html)

Central Division (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/central_division_071116.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Big news out of the NBDL right now is Coby Karl gets sent down to the NDCELE NBDL Chapter.

Sioux Falls Skyforce is the only NBDL team winless this season with Bakersfield ahead of them with one win.

My Suns sent rookie Alando Tucker to Albuquerque. Darius Washington goes to Austin.

In front of a record crowd for an NBDL game, a paid attendance of 8889 at the Wells-Fargo Arena, the brand new Iowa Energy squeaked by the Thunderbirds 101-98 in their home opener with continued stellar play from star Dwayne Mitchell, leading the Energy with 27 points and 14 boards. The Energy have hooked up with the Iowa High School Athletics in bringing the best boys and girls high school teams in Iowa in having premiere high school games up to Feb 10 two hours prior to the start of Energy game. JamesOn Curry was sent to Iowa by Chicago and acquired Anthony Tolliver. Iowa is now 3-3 after losing to the Ft. Wayne Mad Ants for a second time.

Jaren Jackson was named to be an assistant for the Mad Ants after his brief stint with the then-hapless Pittsburgh Xplosion in the CBA.

[Durbansandshark]

Voting has officially begun on the 2008 NBDL All Star Game presented by Adidas in New Orleans (as you may have noticed the NBDL All Star Games are played at the host city of the NBA's big brother version). So get your vote on!
www.nba.com/dleague/allstar2008/asb/landing.jsp (http://www.nba.com/dleague/allstar2008/asb/landing.jsp)

A long while ago I suggested that Toronto should throw its hat into the NBDL ring for an expansion team as the league's Canadian representative, based north of the border. Dave Feshuk from the Toronto Star agrees with me on this idea. Even better, assuming Raptors' owners Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, with association from Canada Basketball, decides to do so, this proposed team should provide meaningful playing opportunities for young and relatively inexperienced (in the pros) Canadian basketball players to have a taste of the high-quality North American pro level instead of heading overseas, like so many inevitably do. Moreover, these young players can become, at least in theory, the foundation towards raising Canada's international basketball standing. This is in respect to the unstable ground minor pro basketball is under in NA. Actually GM Bryan Colangelo is talking about that, but it's preliminary now.
www.thestar.com/Sports/article/283578 (http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/283578)

Aaron Brooks returns to the Rockets after a two-game stint with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, and says "there are no 7-6 dudes [like Yao Ming] in the D-League".
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/5382327.html (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/5382327.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Teams have already made some call-ups from their NBDL affiliates, which I may try to do next week, unlike last year at this time.

Bakersfield Jam coach Jim Harrick has announced his resignation from his head coaching job during the Jam's (and his) second season late over this past week. Harrick, 69, stepped down just before the Jam's first road win of the season, a 121-119 win over the NDCELE NBDL Chapter. Maybe he wants to scratch that college itch, even after that disgraceful end at Georgia. Then again, despite the less W's than L's for the Jam, he missed being away from his family during long stretches at his job with his wife wondering about their priorities (and he enjoyed his job). 10-year NBA vet Sean Rooks, an assistant under Harrick, gets promoted as coach.
www.bakersfield.com/136/story/321484.html (http://www.bakersfield.com/136/story/321484.html)
www.bakersfield.com/136/story/321969.html (http://www.bakersfield.com/136/story/321969.html)

Due to that just-ended hot streak the Portland Trail Blazers had in the month of December with them utilizing their superb two units, Portland wasn't really able to utilize Taurean Green much at all. Just as the 13th Man doing well in practice. So he was sent back down to (accompanied by Josh McRoberts) Boise, home of the Idaho Stampede.
www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=6696 (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=6696)

Competition is thriving between the fringes of the Utah Jazz shooting guards (trying to find minutes for their three young guards like Marcus Almond) and those who figure prominantly on its NBDL team, the Utah Flash. www.sltrib.com/sports/ci_7835978 (http://www.sltrib.com/sports/ci_7835978)

Cedric Simmons, buried at the Cleveland Cavaliers roster, is coming to join the currently undermanned 9-5 Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He's the third player assigned to the Vipers and is expected to play this weekend against the Austin Toros, operated by the Cheaters, who just sent down Ian Mahinmi.
www.themonitor.com/sports/simmons_7772_ ... s_nba.html (http://www.themonitor.com/sports/simmons_7772_article.html/vipers_nba.html)

Speaking of the Cheaters, they just waived former University of Memphis guard Darius Washington after being called up from Austin. You may remember him from his missing those two free throws against Louisville at the end of the 2005 Conference-USA championship game that would've won it for the Tigers, and he tearfully covered himself in his jersey. Instead they called up DeMarr Johnson and Marcus Williams from Austin.

Congrats to reigning NBDL MVP Randy Livingston from the Idaho Stampede for setting a new NDBL record of 22 assists in a single game against the Jam to go along with his 15 points in a 114-99 home victory on Boxing Day. He shared the previous record of 20 with two other players.

[Durbansandshark]

Erie Otters, a struggling OHL junior (ice) hockey franchise, are not very happy over the prospect of having not just the NBDL but minor arena football sharing the Tullio Arena
www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AI ... /-1/HOCKEY (http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/HOCKEY01/712310401/-1/HOCKEY)

Iowa Energy High School Hoops Series schedule
www.nba.com/dleague/iowa/high_school_series.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/iowa/high_school_series.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Guillermo Diaz and CJ Watson made history in becoming the 99th and 100th call-ups, respectively, in the NBDL's history. Diaz played at the University of Miami (FL) and was drafted by the Clippers with the 52th selection in 2006 but was waived prior to the 2006-07 season and played in the Czech Republic in 15 games for CEZ Basketball Nymburk averaging 20.1 pts, 3.1 rbs., 3.3 ast. and then with Greece's A1 AEP Olimipiada Patron for 5 games tallying 13 points before heading to the Anahiem Arsenal.

Watson, a former Tennessee Volunteer, was signed to a 10-year contract by the Golden St. Warriors from the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. After going undrafted despite a very good showing at the Portsmounth Invitational last year, he plied his trade in Italy and Greece last year. Watson is currently the second leading in the league for the Vipers with 25 points.

Tulsa's allure to basketball is growing with the 66ERS after the likes of the ill-fated Zone and Fast Breakers.
www.tulsaworld.com/sports/article.aspx? ... spanc24770 (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/article.aspx?articleID=20080110_2_B6_spanc24770)

More Tulsa 66ERS: a look at Nick Fazeckas' return to his home state of Colorado, ready to face the 14ERS in front of his family and friends in Broomefield:
www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/jan ... with-pros/ (http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/jan/10/cons-go-with-pros/)

Morris Almond was just recalled from the Jazz's farm club, the Flash.

NBDL Showcase 2008 hits Monday, MLK Day, in Boise with all 14 games televised.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/showcase_080110.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/showcase_080110.html)

Just did my NDBL All-Star voting as I was doing this post.

[Durbansandshark]

Correction to my post about NBDL Showcase 2008: next Monday is MLK Day, but it's going on now with Day Two. I'll get to later next week.

More concrete evidence coming to light about Toronto possibly entering the NBDL with (possibly) an all-(young)Canadian roster. Right now with Colorado as its affiliate, the Raptors have no true say on its run, so they're reluctant to send players down there. Having their own team like with the NDCELE and the Spurs brings consistency in operations and control. Could they buy the expansion Mississaugua Red Wolves from the ABA and upgrade them to the NBDL?
www.thestar.com/Sports/article/293974 (http://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/293974)

Former Wisconsin star and journeyman NBAer Scott Roth (one of the original Minnesota Timberwolves from the 1989-90 season) is the new Bakersfield Jam coach: www.bakersfield.com/136/story/331574.html (http://www.bakersfield.com/136/story/331574.html)

[Durbansandshark]

More NDBL expansion is certainly on the agenda with the hope of 30 farm teams for every NBA team, so says NBDL Prez Dan Reed. (http://www.theidahostatesman.com/sports/story/267274.html)

The NBDL surely is the basketball answer to American/Australian/Canadian/NZ/Pop Idol. But many of the players, like the contestants in those contest won't get to have much of an impact for the NBA once they get even to the NBDL at the NBDL Showcase.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/w ... owcase0128 (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/ian_thomson/01/22/d-league.showcase0128)

Meanwhile, the defending NBDL champs, the Dakota Wizards, won their 10th straight.

[Durbansandshark]

With their success rejuvenating everything,the Boston Celtics have their eyes on their own farm team in Portland, Maine (http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=79116) with K.C. Jones, former Celtics coach, running the show. But watch out, the ABA's Manchester Millrats are also interested in being the Celtics' farm team's homebase.

[Durbansandshark]

With their success rejuvenating everything Celtic green, the Boston Celtics have their eyes on their own farm team in Portland, Maine (http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=79116) with K.C. Jones, former Celtics coach, running the show. But watch out, the ABA's Manchester Millrats are also interested in being the Celtics' farm team's homebase.

[Durbansandshark]

Scott O'Neill, NBA VP of team marketing and business operations, raves about Des Moines, home of the Iowa Energy (http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/SPORTS13/801270354)

Sioux Falls Skyforce only now reaping the benefits of NBDL calldowns
www.keloland.com/Sports/NewsDetail7986.cfm?Id=0,65828 (http://www.keloland.com/Sports/NewsDetail7986.cfm?Id=0,65828)

[HunterPirates]

James Peterson and Brian Wethers were drafted by Bakersfield


I think Brian Wethers played for the Hunter Pirates if memory serves or maybe just the slingers?

[HunterPirates]

Also is th eD League televised much in the US? It facinates me.

[Julian]

I think Brian Wethers played for the Hunter Pirates if memory serves or maybe just the slingers?
Pirates and Breakers.

[Durbansandshark]

Also is th eD League televised much in the US? It facinates me.

It is televised in the US and Canada, but games are weekly only on NBATV (RaptorsTV in Canada) these days with a weekly TV show on the network. When the league was in its first few years of existence, their Games of the Week were on ESPN2 though.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/tv_schedule.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/tv_schedule.html)

More on Portland, Maine possibly getting into the NBDL and impressing the NBDL league brass. (http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/sports/stories/1324092278.html)

Idaho Stampede's Bryan Gates and Dan Panaggio from the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter were named to caoch their respective NBDL All-Star teams in New Orleans during NBA All-Star Weekend on February 16.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/allstar2008/co ... 80204.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/allstar2008/coaches_080204.html)

[Durbansandshark]

We're talking briefly about opposite ends of the NBDL W-L spectrum right now.

The Idaho Stampede last night beat the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter 104-90 as reigning MVP Andre Livingston scored 24 as the Stampede goes on to win their record 18th straight game. Certainly we gotta watch them as they try to win the NBDL title this season.

Rio Grande Valley just can't catch a break in minor league pro basketball this year. With the former ABA expansion team Silverados not prospering in the W column over in the CBA (5-27), the not-much-better Vipers (10-23) lost their ninth straight (and five in a row) to Austin on a current five-game home stand. Rio Grande Valley has the Colorado 14ERS coming up tonight at home. Colorado is seven games ahead of them for the sixth and final playoff spot.

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL All-Star break is going on now with the 2nd annual All-Star Game in New Orleans. I hope to get a recap next week.

Ft. Wayne Mad Ants coach Kent Davidson has moved on to accept an offer to coach the Qatar National Team. No doubt Kent will be payed very nicely over there.

Congrats to Utah Flash's Morris Allmond on him setting a new NBL single-game scoring record of 53 points.

[Durbansandshark]

Next week, I'll return to the NBDL.

[Durbansandshark]

Sadly the Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter are currently on a five game winning streak. They should be dead last in the West! :evil:

Another story of how the NBDL experience changes a player used to success at every level.
www.kcchronicle.com/articles/2008/03/09 ... 656178.txt (http://www.kcchronicle.com/articles/2008/03/09/sports/sunday_special/doc47d39c81d3bd0593656178.txt)

Iowa Energy bring aboard former Iowa Hawkeye Adam Haluska from Rio Grande Valley and Josh Gross from Albuquerque.

Reno is joining the NBDL next season after much speculation what league will Reno land in. David Kahn will act as owner and very well possibly have the Sacramento Kings as the NBA feed team. Kings' Player Personnel Director Fat Lever was on hand at the press conference announcing the team's entry causing the speculation. Their home games are going to be at the Reno Events Center.
www.nba.com/dleague/reno (http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno)

[Durbansandshark]

After some measure of resistence from the Erie Otters, the NDBL is officially heading its way to Erie, Pennsylvania next season with an eye toward being the Cavs' farm team. Slowly but surely the NBDL is getting one farm team per NBA franchise with the article also noting southern Ontario, New Jersey, Harlem, and New Enlgand being in line.
www.nba.com/dleague/erie (http://www.nba.com/dleague/erie)
www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articleAID ... /SPORTS18/ (http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articleAID=/20080319/BASKETBALL04/803190422/-1/SPORTS18/)
www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articleAID ... /SPORTS18/ (http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articleAID=/20080319/BASKETBALL04/803190424/-1/SPORTS18/)

Ft. Wayne Mad Ants just beat the Iowa Energy in order to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. No doubt that any lover of basketball knows that wherever you go in Indiana, basketball is heavily supported--be it youth leagues, high school, college, and the pros (NBA and minor). The Mad Ants are no exception to this; it adds onto the foundations and layers already there from the old Ft. Wayne Zollner Pistons and the CBA's beloved Ft. Wayne Fury from the 90s. In fact, the Mad Ants consulted a few people from the Fury to educate them on what works in Ft. Wayne and what doesn't, en route to making them a big hit in their debut with fans.
www.journalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/ar ... /-1/SPORTS (http://www.journalgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articleAID=/20080313/SPORTS/803130323/-1/SPORTS)

[Durbansandshark]

For 2009-10, the NBDL is targeting the Dallas suburb of Frisco, Texas (home of MLS' FC Dallas' Pizza Hut Park) for potential expansion. The Toronto Raptors are looking at obviously Southern Ontario with nearby Hamilton (with the Copps Coliseum as the team's home) with Oshawa, Ontario remaining a possibility.

Some further Canadian NBDL expansion could come in the form of the Halifax Rainmen's ownership/investment group wanting to join, which was announced in early 2008. I already mentioned Portland, Maine and Harlem. Other expansion possibilities include Trenton, Toledo, and Youngstown.

[Durbansandshark]

Next season, everything about the Tulsa 66ERS will take everything they have to their brand new home, and it's not the luxurious BOK (Bank Of Oklahoma for the uninitiated) Center. That will be too cost-prohibitive with their budget. It's the SpiritBank Center at Regal Plaza. (http://www.gtrnews.com/greater-tulsa-reporter/2726/tulsa66ers8217-freddy-owens-looking-forward-to-move) Tulsa is fifth in playoff position

Seattle Supersonics called up Colorado 14ER Eddie Gill and signed him yesterday. Gill was averging 18.8 points for Colorado and will be missed by them as they are sixth right now.

Central Division supremacy hangs in the balance with an upcoming duel between the Sioux Falls Skyforce and Chris Alexander, one of the D-League's best rebounders who now must display an offensive prowess now that Kasib Powell left for the NBA, and the NBDL champs Dakota Wizards, as the Skyforce host the Wizards for two games. Both teams needs to sweep the series coming up not only to win the season series and claim the Central title but to keep their playoff hopes alive with both facing sixth and seventh seeds at the moment.

[Durbansandshark]

We're about to get into the final weekend of the regular season before we get into the playoffs.

You gotta feel a little bad for the four callups to the Heat so far. Even though they are excited to be playing in the NBA after the callup and getting some burn under their 10-day callups, they knew they were inheriting a dredful situation with the Heat, which thanks to the misfortunes like widespread injury problems, allowed them to use NBDLers. Stephane Lasme, Kasib Powell, and Bobby Jones, and Blake Ahearn, if I'm right, had to endure records the Heat do NOT want like attempting the lowest amount of shot and scoring the least amount points since the 24 second shot clock in different games. Of course, they possibly knew such stuff could occur.

Speaking of Powell, it was learned on Sunday that he's the 2007-08 NBDL MVP. Powell leads the league in scoring with a 22.2 average for Sioux Falls.

Tonight the Austin Toros, the Rotten Ass Cheaters' NBDL club, can clinch the Central Division with a win against the Colorado 14ERS.

Randy Livingstone made a game winning shot with 0:01 seconds left from an assist by Luke Jackson to add altogether 36 points and 10 assists in a win over the Utah Flash 119-117, thus extending their lead to 2 games over the NDCELE NBDL Chapter.

Some additional developments (and thoughts) pertaining to Toronto seeking a NBDL franchise in Hamilton:
www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?t=7 ... sc&start=0 (http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?t=770444&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)

Nick Fazekas was signed by the LA Clippers for the rest of the season and temporarily signed Marcus Williams.

Portland (Maine) City Council approved a lease for a NBDL-seeking group to the Portland Exposition Building. The group, which includes state Senator Barry Hobbins, two Bill Ryans (one the owner of Oxford Plains Speedway, the other a TD Banknorth board chair), and former Celtics assistant Jon Jennings, will pay between $2100-2400 per event while contributing $250,000 for its maintenance as they hope to be the Boston Celtics affiliate

[Durbansandshark]

Playoff time has hit the NBDL starts today (our tax deadline):

single elimination games
Sioux Falls Skyforce @ Dakota Wizards
Colorado 14ERS @ Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter

Sioux Falls/Dakota winner @ Austin--East title
Colorado/NDCELE NBDL Chapter winner @ Idaho--West title

[Durbansandshark]

Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter 109 Colorado 14ERS 95

Sioux Falls Skyforce 101 Dakota Wizards 89

Austin Toros 99 Sioux Falls Skyforce 91
Idaho Stampede 97 Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter 90 :D

So now we'll have a new champ in the NBDL this week with Idaho facing Austin. Game One is going right now as I write this in Austin.

Portland, Maine will play in 2009-10

[Durbansandshark]

Game 1 NBDL Championship: Austin Toros 95 Idaho Stampede 89 (http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/200804201/IDAAUS/recap.html)

[Durbansandshark]

Game 2 of the 2008 NBDL Finals is tonight with the Austin Toros traveling to Boise with the hope of winning the series.

Erie, Reno, and Portland all must take note on how to deal with their first respective seasons because, though none of them made the playoffs, Iowa, Ft. Wayne, Rio Grande Valley, and Utah all have enjoyed their time and have some wisdom to part to them.
www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AI ... 1/SPORTS18 (http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20040413/BASKETBALL04/804130508/-1/SPORTS18)

[Durbansandshark]

(I really like the new look to these boards! :) )

Idaho overcame the Game 1 loss to Austin and won the last two games back at their home court in Boise with a 108-101 win over the Toros in the 2008 NBDL Finals. Randy Livingston goes out a champion with a Stampede title after a 12-year professional career and will now pursue coaching, ending it with 6 points. More details will come tomorrow.

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL Pre-Draft Camp is June 27-29 in Swansea, Georgia

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL MVP: Kasib Powell--Sioux Falls Skyforce
Rookie of The Year: Blake Ahearn--Dakota Wizards
Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year: Brian Gates--Idaho Stampede
D-League Impact Player of the Year: Morris Almond--Utah Flash
Co-Defensive Players of the Year: Mouhamed Sane--Idaho Stampede and Stephane Lasme--NDCELE NBDL Chapter
Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award: Billy Thomas--Colorado 14ERS

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL head honcho Daniel Reed comes away impressed about Halifax for possible 2009-10 expansion with its professional organization. I think Halifax would be natural fit for the NBDL with its strong basketball support and tradition. Problem is, if and when the Rainmen get into the ABA, that travel issue and costs could be on the upswing from the ABA, but that could be minor. Halifax's closest city in the ABA was Quebec City, and should it come to the NBDL, Erie will be the closest city to it unless Hamilton comes in as Toronto's farm club. Also, should Halifax take a possible page from them and cultivate young Canadian basketball talent in the North American pro, since there are precious few there? Hoped he liked the IIHF World Ice Hockey Championship Finland-Slovakia game there. (Halifax is also the hometown of Juno star Ellen Page)
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1054664.html
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1054408.html

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL 2007-08 FINAL STANDINGS

Central Division
Dakota Wizards 29-21
Sioux Falls Skyforce 28-22
Iowa Energy 22-28
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants 17-33

Southwest Division
Austin Toros 30-20
Colorado 14ERS 29-21
Tulsa 66ERS 26-24
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 22-28
Rio Grande Valley Vipers 21-29

West Division
Idaho Stampede 36-14
NDCELE NBDL Chapter 32-18
Utah Flash 24-26
Anahiem Arsenal 23-27
Bakersfield Jam 11-39

[Durbansandshark]

The new Erie NBDL team has a new name made public last week. Presenting to you the Erie BayHawks. If you compare the logos between that and of its parent club, the Cleveland Cavaliers, there are similarities in design and colo(u)rs. Moreover, it reminds me of the (Northeast Louisiana) Warhawks logo. Like with that, it pays tribute to the local armed forces history, this time naval as it beat out other military ones like Commodores and Navigators...and Snow Dogs and Storm Dogs. OHL Erie Otters minority owner Ron Seartz acts as the BayHawks president with former LSU assistant John Treloar being the inaugural head coach. The BayHawks recently announced 350+ season ticket sales.
www.nba.com/dleague/erie/bayhawks_name_080523.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/erie/bayhawks_name_080523.html)

Portland, Maine's NBDL expansion team is expected to play in 2009-10 adopting the colo(u)rs of the Boston Celtics when they call the Portland Exposition Building home.

Reno currently has a Name The Team contest with Bighorns (a nod to Reno's WBA/CBA team in the late 70s and early 80s), Enforcers, Rangers, and Riders all vying for that privilege.

Ft. Wayne Mad Ants announce former Pittsburgh Xplosion head coach Jaren Jackson as their new one for the 2008-09 season.
www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne)

[Durbansandshark]

Halifax Rainmen play the waiting game whether it got acceptance from the NBDL. A meeting will take place with Andre Livingstone, David Dobbins, Dan Reed and NBDL officials on this matter. I don't think they will join in the future years only because of the issue and cost of travel being so far out in the Maritimes from the northern and easternmost of the NBDL teams being the Erie BayHawks (to say nothing of possibly Portland, Maine). If not, the PBL will serve as a very nice option.
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Sports/1059720.html
www.oursportscentral.com/services/relea ... 56916.html (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?=3656916.html)

Idaho Stampede now partners as the NBDL affiliate for Toronto and Portland, ending its association with Seattle and its uncertain future.
www.idahostatesman.com/sports/today/407558.html (http://www.idahostatesman.com/sports/today/407558.html)

NBDL Affilliations 2008-09:

Albuquerque Thunderbirds--Dallas, Miami
Anahiem Arsenal--Atlanta, LA Clippers
Austin Toros--San Antonio
Bakersfield Jam--Golden St., Orlando
Colorado 14ERS--Denver, New Jersey
Dakota Wizards--Washington, Memphis
Erie BayHawks--Cleveland, Philadelphia
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants--Detroit, Indiana
Iowa Energy--Phoenix, Chicago
Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire-NBDL Chapter--Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire
Reno--New York, Sacramento
Rio Grande Valley Vipers--Houston, New Orleans
Sioux Falls Skyforce--Charlotte, Minnesota
Tulsa 66ERS--Milwaukee, Seattle
Utah Flash--Utah, Boston

[Durbansandshark]

More on the 2008-09 NBDL affiliations:
www.ridiculousupside.com/2008/6/12/5504 ... t-some-tea (http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2008/6/12/550418/some-teams-get-it-some-tea)

Bakersfield Jam break ground on their new practice facility
www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield (http://www.nba.com/dleague/bakersfield)

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL Divisional Realignment for 2008-09:

Central Division

Dakota Wizards
Erie BayHawks
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants
Iowa Energy
Sioux Falls Skyforce

Southwest Division

Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Austin Toros
Colorado 14ERS
Rio Grande Valley Vipers
Tulsa 66ERS

West Division

Anahiem Arsenal
Bakersfield Jam
Idaho Stampede
Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter
Reno
Utah Flash

[Durbansandshark]

Sam Vincent returns to the NBDL as the new head coach of the Anahiem Arsenal. Vincent is no stranger to the NBDL having coached in the league's inuagural season with the Mobile Revelers, leading them to their first title, and later with the Ft. Worth Flyers. The Reno expansion team tried to get him as their first coach.

Utah Flash will serve as the host to the 2009 NBDL Showcase on January 5-8 at the McKay Events Center.

Speaking of Reno, the team will make their new name, logo, colo(u)rs, and unis publicly known today...

[Durbansandshark]

I really love this! Introducing the Reno's new NBDL... (http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno)

I hope Colorado St. doesn't get upset over the logo similarities.

[Durbansandshark]

No more minor pro basketball competition in the Rio Grande Valley with the Silveradoes having bought by a pharamacist, packed up to Beamount, and moved back to the ABA, where they originally were. And the on-court and off-court fortunes of both teams didn't help during the course of last season. Now the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the NBDL can now look forward to enlargening their fanbase in the valley as the only basketball team there. And it will start that in the upcoming 2008-09 season with eight consecutive home games (http://www.themonitor.com/sports/open_15858_article.html/season_consecutive.html), but the pressure is on for coach Clay Moser and his Vipers to get to a good start.

The 2009 NBDL Showcase will be held in Orem, Utah, home of the Utah Flash.

Jeff Ruland, coach of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds, was awarded with a spot on the Philadelphia 76ERS coaching staff under Mo Cheeks with an emphasis on helping the post players like Samuel Dalenbert.
www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/Albuque ... 82208.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/albuquerque/Albuquerque_Thunderbirds_Head_082208.html)

Ruland's counterpart in Colorado, Joe Wolf, has also moved up to be an assistant in the NBA with New Jersey.

That still-nameless Oklahoma City NBA franchise, the team we have all come to know and hate this side of the NDCELE since leaving Seattle, has bought the ownership rights to the Tulsa 66ERS for $2.25 million.

[Durbansandshark]

Because the god-awful Oklahoma City Thunder (should still be in Seattle! :evil: ) took over sole ownership of the Tulsa 66ERS, making them as their farm team, the Milwaukee Bucks, had to find another NBDL team to send and call up players. So they chose the Ft. Wayne Mad Ants (http://www.nba.com/dleague/fortwayne/bucks_080903.html) as their new affiliate that they'll share with Central Division rivals Indiana and Detroit. That's going to be very interesting this sesason with players sent from those three teams all trying to play with and getting to know one another during the course of the season with different and conflicting coaching philosophies at play.

Visit the 2008-09 NBDL schedule (http://www.nba.com/dleague/schedules)

NBDL teams are currently conducting open tryouts.

[Durbansandshark]

Reno Bighorns made their major announcement as to who will be their first head coach will be at a Children's Cabinet press conference: Jay Humphries, an 11-year NBA vet out of the University of Colorado Buffaloes who played for Phoenix, Milwaukee, Utah, and Boston. He was on the Phoenix Suns coaching staff before becoming the Bighorns big boss. Before Phoenix, he coached professionally in the South Korean KBL. Get ready for some breakneck basketball from him. Open tryouts will commence this weekend.
http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic ... 18/SPORTS/ (http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080911/SPORTS/809110329/1018/SPORTS/)
www.nba.com/dleague/reno (http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno)

Sam Vincent was screwed out of the Charlotte Bobcats coaching job as the unwilling sacrificial lamb to make way for Larry Brown from an under pressure Michael Jordan to boost greater local interest in a market still burned over the Hornets' departure with a franchise still learning how to consistently win, despite giving the Bobcats a better record, being competitive, and continuing the improvement even with the major injuries--and still defeated the two NBA Finalists during that last season. When MJ hired Vincent there was cronyism, but Vincent's got coaching experience, also mostly in Africa and should've gotten more time with the Bobcats. But he looks forward to a D-League return with Anahiem.
www.ridiculousupside.com/2008/8/29/6035 ... r-an-inter (http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2008/8/29/603522/back-on-the-floor-an-inter)

Former NBDL veteran Omar Cook led Montenegro with a win over The Netherlands in the Eurobasket Division B Qualifications 70-63 with promotion to the A Division as the ultimate goal with seven assists. He will suit up for Spain's Unicaja Malaga this coming season.

[Durbansandshark]

Nearing 20 years of successful pro basketball in the CBA and now in the NBDL, the Sioux Falls Skyforce face a great challenge this upcoming season: thanks in part to a new realignment with expansion and the rising prices, the Skyforce express concern over travel costs (http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080813/SPORTS0302/808130309/1002/sports).

Scheduling seems more favorable with the Dakota Wizards with plenty of weekend home dates. They begin and end their season at home:
www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/0 ... 162223.txt (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/08/13/news/sports/local/162223.txt)

Dan Reed discusses the challenges of replacing the ones that the league developed and ensuring there's a deep talent pool continues to be channeled.
http://my.nba.com/jspa?threadID=5700020 ... 5700329529 (http://my.nba.com/jspa?threadID=5700020983&#msg5700329529)

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NBDL Expansion Draft Results:

Round 1: Damone Brown (Reno), Mike Gansey (Erie)
Round 2: Jackie Manuel (Erie), Tony Gipson (Reno)
Round 3: Jesse Smith (Reno), Kris Lang (Erie)
Round 4: Dahntay Jones (Erie), Jamaal Thomas (Reno)
Round 5: Andre Patterson (Reno), Steven Smith (Erie)
Round 6: Cecil Brown (Erie), Davin White (Reno)
Round 7: Mustafa Al-Sayyad (Reno), Brian Greene (Erie)
Round 8: Brian Chase (Erie), Kyle Davis (Reno)
Round 9: Alfred Neale (Reno), Jeff Hagan (Erie)
Round 10: Randy Livingston (Erie), Larry Turner (Reno)

Unless Randy Livingston pulled a Brett Favre and underwent a change of heart after announcing his retirement winning the NBDL title with the Idaho Stampede, just don't see him sporting a BayHawks jersey this upcoming season. I think Idaho wanted to protect their young players and left Livingston exposed. He says he's going into coaching...and is now the NBDL spokesperson for the University of Phoenix.

Rio Grande Valley Vipers, now the only pro basketball team in that region with the Silverados left for Beaumont, hires former NBAer and slam dunk extraordinaire Robert Pack as an assistant coach.
www.themonitor.com/sports/nba_17677_art ... pack_coach (http://www.themonitor.com/sports/nba_17677_article.html/pack_coach)

2008 NBDL All-Star MVP and Gatorade Callup Jeremy Richardson, and former NBDLers Mike Wilks and Dwayne Jones all signed contracts with the Orlando Magic today.

Don't look now but the Ft. Wayne Mad Ants are going Hollywood! In a soon-to-be-aired episode of One Tree Hill, the Mad Ants will be front and center in a storyline that deals with regular cast member Nathan (played by James Lafferty) trying out to make the team as he pursues his dream to play professional basketball. Producers have worked closely with Ft. Wayne and the NBA with recreating the court, logo, and uniforms with a few of the actual players taking part in the episode. It's set to air on the CW here in the US and Canada on Monday (possibly on CH north of the border) with Australians and Kiwis getting it later. Is it on Ten down there?

Reggie Larry, a former Boise St. star, is leaving Cyprus' AEL Limassol for likely the Idaho Stampede
www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/512407.html (http://www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/512407.html)

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NBDL Draft 2008 will be on November 7.

Over 111 players with NBDL ties are currently on various NBA teams throughout their respective training camps right now.

[Durbansandshark]

Randy Livingston joins the Idaho Stampede coaching staff and thus stays put instead of joining Erie.

Paul Woolpert hopes to emulate the playing style of Tulsa's parent club, the Oklahoma City Thunder ( :evil: ) with him now acting as the 66ERS new head coach. With that, Greg Minor, Anthony Aldridge, and Brandon Barrett all came aboard as well at the SpiritBank Center.

[Durbansandshark]

Tulsa gets some estatic news when it found out that it will get the first pick in the 2008 NBDL Draft with the 66ERS winning first prize in the lottery order (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_081014.html) taking place today in Dallas. Draft order goes like the PBL's in a serpentine format, meaning that the draft order alternates in each of the ten rounds. The 2008 NBDL Draft will take place live in Atlanta on November 7 on NBATV.

First Round Draft Order:
1. Tulsa
2. Colorado
3. Idaho
4. Sioux Falls
5. Bakersfield
6. Ft. Wayne
7. Erie
8. Anahiem
9. Utah
10.Reno
11.Dakota
12.Rio Grande Valley
13.Now Deservedly Crumbling Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter
14.Albuquerque

All 14 NBDL teams appear in the new installment of Sony's NBA 09: The Inside, the only NBA video game where you can play those teams. It's a shame only Sony's installment, after a year's abscene, has those teams and not EA Sports and 2K Sports too. Also the players on the teams all have fictional names and play one generic NBDL arena (not the architecturally-correct ones they all play in) but the courts are accurate for the teams. Don't know if you can promote your NBDL players to the NBA parent teams, but I'll look into that.

I hope they don't give up on their dreams, but my personal experiences in high school dealing with meritocracy in achieving your hopes and dreams--not involving sports at all, but I won't go into that--it is also about "the right opportunities and making the most of them", lack of national previous media inertia, politics, coaching staff's philosophies, life's cruelties, economics, what have you, not just talent that make it for them. The myth isn't always true. Here's a case with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers' open tryouts.
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/6028818.html (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/6028818.html)

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60 former NBDL players have made opening day rosters on NBA teams.

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The Iowa Energy's connections with the Phoenix Suns goes back to when freshman Steve Kerr met coach Lute Olsen, fresh from his time serving as coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes to revive the woebegone Arizona Wildcats program. Olsen shared of his stories of his recruiting including a name a lot of you Aussie fans (and Kings fans) know--Steve Carfino. Kerr was in Des Moines recently to trumpet the affiliation link. Hey, the colo(u)ring schemes are similiar to each other. A Phoenix Suns preseason game in Des Moines isn't going to occur until 2010 at the earliest since NBA scheduling is set up to 2009. Don't get too excited Energy fans: Nashie isn't going to come to Iowa, even on a rehab stint but a pg is likely (either Dragic or Singletary) to play for a while there. Wells Fargo Arena is a very sophisticated faciility, even beyond NBDL standards . Plus a direct flight from Des Moines to Phoenix exists.

Meanwhile Adam Haluska and Jeff Horner will not return to the Energy this season. Horner is playing professionally in Israel with Haluska plays for a Belgian club. Energy coach Nick Nurse expects former Iowa St. star Curtis Stinson to return and maybe also former Hawkeye Doug Thomas.

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The 2008 NBDL Draft Board (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_board_08.html)

Review and Analysis of the 2008 NBDL Draft Picks (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/draft_review_081108.html)

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Reno Bighorns announced that KJFK 1230-AM will air all 25 of their home games this season with Dan Gustin as the team's play-by-play man for their first season, which begins on November 29 hosting against the Bakersfield Jam.

The Bighorns also made known of their three assistant under head coach Jay Humphries. Former Nevada basketball player Eathan O'Bryant boldly announced them as the best in the assistant coaching field. Tom Aberamatco and Jason Glover combined have 40 years of experience under ACC coaching legends Lefty Drisell and Jim Valvano and later the Sacramento Monarch since 2003 in Aberamatco's part and then-Nevada coach Pat Foster along with high school basketball in Glover's. In addition Glover will hold the Bighorns director of basketball operations portfolio. Abatemarco will be glad to continue on with his assistant post with Sacramento since their respective seasons won't conflict with each other. The last of the three is one who isn't all that removed from his Nevada-Reno Wolfpack days. Todd Okeson played and helped take them to Sweet 16 run in 2004 and is currently injured with a torn ligament but may well suit up for the Bighorns soon. Will serve as the assistant director of basketball operations.
www.rgj.com/article/20081030/SPORTS/810300363&theme= (http://www.rgj.com/article/20081030/SPORTS/810300363&theme=)

On November 26 the BIghorns will conduct a practice open to both the public and media at Carson High from 6-8:30pm with adults charged $2 for admission--students and children are to be admitted free. And Bighorns training camp has already started (http://www.rgj.com/article/20081116/SPORTS/811160345&theme=) with only a few days to spare getting on the team.

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Iowa Energy announced today all 50 of their game will be streamed live to online viewers through NBA Futurecast, for free starting this Friday against at division rivals Sioux Falls, on their website as an obvious way to expand their fan base and expand the access to the Energy team. www.iowanba.com (http://www.iowanba.com)

Sioux Falls Skyforce is about days away to start their 20 years of successful pro basketball this season. The Skyforce in their years of existence in the CBA and the NBDL will commemorate this season with a 20th anniversary patch on their jerseys, a 20 seasons logo, and online voting for the Skyforce's 20 players for the 20th Anniversary Team until April Fool's Day. One lucky winner will receive two round trip air tickets from Sioux Falls to Orlando, Las Vegas, or Phoenix. The 20th Anniversary logo will prominent all over the Sioux Falls Arena during this season, not just the court, on NBA Futurecast, and online at skyforceonline.com. On the final Skyforce home game April 11 the 20 greatest Skyforce players will be revealed.

But the major story involving the NBDL right now happens to be Hamed Haddadi's arrival to the Dakota Wizards as a minor league assignment from the Memphis Grizzlies, their first for the season and the first since Alexander Johnson to the Arkansas RimRockers in 2007. The Iranian who led the Beijing Olympics men's basketball tournament in blocks will arrive in Bismarck in time for the Wizards' home opener Saturday against Iowa. Haddadi has yet to play a minute in the regular season for Memphis so far, but should have even in garbage time. However, he produce much in the preseason averaging almost 10 minutes. When he gets some time with pro basketball seasoning in Bismarck, the Wizards fans will be impressed by his defensive prowess.

A native of Ahvaz, Iran, Haddadi, the seventh NBA player and as the sixth rookie to be assigned to the NBDL, led the Iranian National Team in scoring, rebounding, and blocks in all of his five games at the Beijing Olympics--a double double in points and rebounds (16.6 ppg and 11.2 rpg). He performed comparably when repping for Iran when he and his team made their North American debut at the Rocky Mountain Revue in Salt Lake earlier that summer--14 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in 25.5 minutes. He will wear #50 for the Wizards.

A glimpse of the NBDL Futurecast (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dleague_webcasts.html)
Only natural to for a very young sports league like the NBDL, despite its string backing of the NBA, can engage in the Internet for its fans with its limited national coverage. TV ratings for this league are not very favorable starting with ESPN when the league was just a Southeastern US affair with their teams. Television, for its cable and immense power, due to the need ratings high and justify large fees can't accept stuff like this and consistently these days. I don't have NBATV for digital satelitte. Wish I did, but that's a luxury I can't afford at this time, I'm sorry to say. So the Internet with its time constraints on surfing and bandwith will suffice for me. Cheaper and more burgeoning on the Internet anyway.

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Haven't got into the NBDL at all this week. But hey, the NBDL All-Star Weekend is heading to Phoenix running concurrently with its big brother's, as is the custom.

[Durbansandshark]

Bakersfield Jam are enjoying its best start ever from the start of the season with a 8-1 record, a league best and on top of the NBDL Power Rankings. Idaho (7-1) and Colorado (5-1) are behind them at second and third, respectively. Iowa comes in as the fourth team as the only other NBDL team with only one loss.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/power_rankings_081217.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/power_rankings_081217.html)

Coby Karl returns to his Boise roots by playing for the Idaho Stampede after getting waived by the NDCELE. Coby expected that despite his famous NBA name, Nuggets coach George is of course his dad, Phil Jax wasn't going to play favo(u)rites on the team (that is picking him on the opening day roster in part of his name) after playing in a few games but not making the playoff roster but acting playoff opponents during practices. His dad called the move "unexpected". Now, Karl's back on familiar ground continuing to refine his skills for the NBA-ready callup. And the defending champs are still successful right now.
www.idahopress.com/sports/?id=16925 (http://www.idahopress.com/sports/?id=16925)

Another son with a familiar name is in the NBDL. Patrick Ewing Jr. was sent down from the Knicks preseason roster to expansion Reno as the last player cut to have the NBA-mandated 15-man roster due to Mike D'Antoni's view of Ewing not possessing enough offensive weaponry and arrived on Monday as he filled a vacated spot from the waived Kyle Shiloh. He made a smashing debut with the Bighorns that night versus the Utah Flash scoring 15 points. But the Flash prevailed, however. Gavin Grant made his first professional start with the Flash and scored 25 points.
www.nba.com/dleague/games/20081215/RENUTA/recap.html (http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20081215/RENUTA/recap.html)
In other Bighorn news, Daryl "Majic" Dorsey joined to team, providing experience, scoring, and playmaking. He most recent NBDL play came with the Albuquerque Thunderbirds, where he averaged 12.8 points through five game this season. He also played for the Anahiem Arsenal. Dorsey will occupy the roster left by South Korean guard Sung Yoon-Ban, who left the team earlier last week.

From the Southern Illinois-Carbondale Salukis, Jamal Tatum finally gets a chance to shine in the minor leagues with the Stampede.
www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/583861.html (http://www.idahostatesman.com/sports/story/583861.html)

With Ginobili and Parker back, Blake Ahearn gets re-assigned to Austin instead of playing for Dakota. That time the NBDL Rookie of the Year last season was playing against his former team. Plus, Dakota finally got to play their postponed game against Tulsa Monday.
www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/1 ... 170744.txt (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/12/01/news/sports/local/170744.txt)
www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/1 ... 171841.txt (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/12/15/news/sports/local/171841.txt)

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I'm surprised the Erie BayHawks are playing this well right now as an expansion team. They're second in the Central Division under Sioux Falls at 6-3. Reno is right where I somewhat expect them to be.

[Durbansandshark]

This year's NBDL Showcase starts Monday at the home of the Utah Flash.

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Erie BayHawks, after such a nice start as an expansion team, started to undergo a road slide. Dropping to a 1-3 road slide that was contributed in part to cold shooting in their game last night against woeful Tulsa at the NBDL Showcase 94-85. They play Albuquerque tonight to end their run at the Showcase. Erie now is 9-7 and will return home for weekend duels with Ft. Wayne and Iowa starting Friday.

Rio Grande Valley Vipers acquire Marcus Hubbard, this year's draftee from the Dakota Wizardsaveraged 6.6 points and 3 rebounds a game and attended Atlanta's training camp.

Kyrylo Fesenko from the Ukraine just got sent down by the Utah Jazz to play with the Flash on assignment in time for the Flash's hosting of the Showcase. He only started just one game and played 10 overall this season. His best outing was against Houston with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Did help the Flash win over Anahiem 109-100 in their first game in it.

[Durbansandshark]

Bakersfield Jam coach Scott Roth earns a 1-year extension (http://www.bakersfield.com/136/story/646095.html) to his contract as a reward for turning things around with the best start in the team's history. Look for him to be bandied about as the Dennis Johnson NBDL Coach of the Year Award. The same article that I link makes a brief note of the new Bakersfield Jam practice facility will open later this month.

Will Puerto Rican shooter Elias "Larry" Ayuso get an NBA callup from Iowa? This was just before the holidays when this article was written.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/s ... day-081217 (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?page=ayusonholiday-081217)

Coming up is a retrospective on the NBDL Showcase. First off is from the Draft Express blogs (click on the left side for more detailed Showcase stuff).
www.draftexpress.com/dleague.php (http://www.draftexpress.com/dleague.php)

Portland, Maine will know for sure early this year whether it will truly join the NBDL next season for expansion.

[Durbansandshark]

Iowa Energy coach Nick Nurse and Austin Toros (and former Mizzou) coach Quinn Snyder were selected to caoch their respective teams at the NBDL All-Star Game in Phoenix next month during NBA All-Star Weekend. Both of their teams ended up having the best winning percentages after January 27 in a three division league.

Reno's Patrick Ewing Jr. has averaged 24 points and 7.3 rebounds over the last three games

Idaho stopped a losing streak from happening by clipping a struggling Erie BayHawks 79-76

More to come next week...

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The NBDL 2009 All-Star Game rosters that Nick Nurse and Quinn Snyder will coach with in Phoenix (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/2009_allstar_rosters.html). Also note the team's trainers will join them too.

Your participants in the 2009 NBDL Dream Factory events field is complete (http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/2009_dream_factory.html).

Colorado 14ERS, now with the best record in the NBDL, perches at the top of the NBDL Power Rankings ahead of Iowa, Austin, and defending champs Idaho.

Erie gets revenge on Idaho last night 111-85.

[Durbansandshark]

Are there NBDL teams in danger of leaving? Some owners are crying to the league for cash.

In related stories (both happened on the same day within the same SW division0, Albaquerque Thunderbirds have sold to minority owner Sam Bregman with no comment coming from David Kahn, who was looking to sell the franchise for some time.

Reno Bighorns are now under the stewardship of the Reno Aces baseball team.

It's now official: the NBDL is coming to Portland, Maine next season with hopes of Boston affiliation. Look more at www.nbamaine.com (http://www.nbamaine.com)

I pledge more next week like the NBDL All-Star Game.

[gangsta boo]

Just took a look at the D League to see how David Bailey's team has been going ( Skyforce ) as well as Australias own Jawai

Liked the name of the team for Fort Wayne - "Mad Ants" :D

[Durbansandshark]

Maine's new NBDL entry has a contest with the following names: Claws, Destroyers, Crushers, Beacons, Red Claws, Traps, and Swarm. Of the names selected, I like Beacons as a way to pay tribute to the 60 lighthouses that guide the ships safely to shore in the state. Four of the names obviously have lobster industry connections naturally with Red Claws added in tribute to Red Auerbach. Swarm is a nod to the state insect, the honey bee, when they swarm together together to reach a common goal, much like the new team working as such and earning a callup. Destroyers pays homage to the 400 years of shipbuilding in the Maine, a vibrant part of the state's history and culture. I personally wished the Lumberjacks were among the names because of the forests the state has and, like the nod Reno has, a tribute to the old CBA team in the early 80s.

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NBDL regular season has just ended with the playoffs now approaching just like in the big brother NBA. Lots of stuff transpired since I last posted about the league. This includes the Colorado 14ERS dropping 155 points on the Albuquerque Thunderbirds last weekend.

Maine's new NBDL expansion has selected a name; you can be sure the lobsters are having a field day with one.

Also, Maine now has a New England neighbor in their midsts for next season: a team at the home of basketball, Springfield, Massachusetts. This is supposed to be the new home for the beleaguered Anahiem Arsenal. Details soon.

NBDL Quarterfinals Playoffs 2009

April 14
Colorado 14ERS vs. Erie BayHawks

April 15
Austin Toros vs. Idaho Stampede
Bakersfield Jam vs. Utah Flash

April 16
Iowa Energy vs. Dakota Wizards
_____________

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A new NBDL champion will be crowned in this series starting tonight that you can catch on NBDL Futurecast. The Utah Flash host the Colorado 14ERS in Game 1 on the 2009 NBDL Finals in Orem, Utah.

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Colorado 14ERS won the 2009 NBDL title over the Utah Flash two games to one.

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Springfield, Massachusetts' new NBDL team that it inherited from Anahiem had a name the team contest for the former Arsenal that went on until May 1. The candidates:

Armor--in hono(u)r of the legendary Springfield Armory
Colonials--paying tribute to the fact that Massachusetts was among the original 13 colonies
that formed the United States
Founders--attributes the fact that basketball was founded in Springfield
Spirit--celebrating the great history and civic pride Springfield enjoyed since its establishment as a city in 1635

A write-in candidate was added. My pick would be Legends in hono(u)r to both the Naismith Basketball Hall Of Fame and of the fact that basketball was founded there.

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Maine's expansion NBDL team for Boston has a name and logo. Drum roll please... (www.nba.com/dleague/maine)

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Lots of NBDL news I'll catch up with soon, including the postseason.

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The Anahiem Arsenal are now the Springfield Armory (www.nba.com/dleague/springfield). The Mid-Atlantic NBA teams of New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia will act as parent teams. More on this move soon.

Frisco, Texas, a Dallas suburb that is home to FC Dallas' home soccer stadium, Pizza Hut Park, joins the NBDL next season in 2010 (www.nba.com/dleague/frisco) with the Dr. Pepper Arena to call home. And will undoubtably be the Dallas Mavericks' exclusive NBDL team. It's the latest NBDL team to be based in Texas since the demise of the nearby Ft. Worth Flyers. By the way, this is the former Colorado 14ERS that will drop out of the NBDL this coming season to make way for the transition to Frisco.

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Vermont Frost Heaves coach Will Voigt will now coach the Bakersfield Jam (so they're not dead after all) in the NBDL on a two-year contract. He's a great hire for the team with an emphasis on team instead of the stars (the look at me ego variety). Not surprisingly, this nice guy has earned him great results with the players buy into his system as one of the best in-game basketball coaches in minor league pro basketball. One criticism he has deals with situational coaching. Vermont will dearly miss him, and he helped bring and maintained stability inside the franchise.

2009-10 NBDL Divisional Alignment

EAST
Springfield Armory
Maine Red Claws
Erie BayHawks
Dakota Wizards
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants
Iowa Energy
Sioux Falls Skyforce

WEST
Reno Bighorns
Bakersfield Jam
Utah Flash
Albuquerque Thunderbirds
Austin Toros
Rio Grande Valley Vipers
Idaho Stampede
Tulsa 66ERS
Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter

[Durbansandshark]

Interesting bit of news out of the NBDL. Chris Finch, coach of Great Britain, will make his US head coaching debut in his native land when becomes the new coach of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, fresh off a maiden Eurobasket trip for Great Britain. Finch has already coached in Britain (with the Sheffield Sharks) and in Belgium. If you read the international basketball thread, I talk a lot about Team GB, and this is a nice coaching gig for him to be here statesside very close to the elite NBA level, where he can come into contact with Deng and Gordon. He can possibly bring forth and encourage young Brits to come there and get more polish and competition consistenly with an eye to London 2012 and get NBA scouts noticing them. Finch replaces Clay Moser who left with a 21-29 in his sole season there.
www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley/finch092909.html

Albuquerque Thunderbirds will select first in next month's NBDL Draft

NBDL Affiliations 2009-10:
Albuquerque--Dallas, New Orleans
Austin--San Antonio
Bakersfield--Golden St., LA Clippers
Dakota--Memphis, Washington
Erie--Cleveland, Toronto
Ft. Wayne--Indiana, Milwaukee, Detroit
Idaho--Portland, Denver
Iowa--Chicago, Phoenix
Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter--Evil Laker Empire
Maine--Boston, Charlotte
Reno--Orlando, Sacramento
Rio Grande Valley--Houston
Sioux City--Miami, Minnesota
Springfield--New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia
Tulsa--Oklahoma City
Utah--Atlanta, Utah

[Durbansandshark]

Idaho Stampede welcome back assistant coach Joel Abelson to the post to work under Bob McKinnon.

New Bakersfield coach Will Voigt brings Greg Minor, Mark Strickkland, Chris Leazier, and intern Jeff Christiansen as his coaching staff.

2008-09 NBDL STANDINGS

Central Division
Iowa Energy 28-22
Dakota Wizards 27-23
Erie BayHawks 27-23
Sioux Falls Skyforce 25-25
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants 19-31

Southwest Division
Colorado 14ERS 34-16
Austin Toros 32-18
Albuquerque Thunderbirds 24-26
Rio Grande Valley Vipers 21-29
Tulsa 66ERS 15-35

West Division
Utah Flash 32-18
Idaho Stampede 31-19
Bakersfield Jam 26-24
Reno Bighorns 25-25
Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter 19-31
Anahiem Arsenal 15-35

[Durbansandshark]

Nicknames regarding Frisco that I've dug up so far deal with the railroad history as a watering hole in the San Francisco-St. Louis railway line: Iron Horses, RailRaiders, Conductors, Rustlers, and Mauraders.

Chris Finch's hiring to be the Rio Grande Valley Vipers' coach, as I stated before, can only help British basketball, so says the Daily Telegraph (www.telegraph.co.uk/sports/othersports/basketball/6250962/Great-britain-basketball-can-only-be-boosted-by-Chris-Finchs-move-to-the-USA.html#). Finch can also keep taps and establish rellationships with the borderline NBAer Pops Mensah-Bonsu. I'm certain Nick Nurse, Iowa's coach and Team GB assistant helped Finch in getting this. Funnily enough, the Rockets were seeking a similar hybrid style of play for the Vipers that Team GB does with NBA-Europe in theirs.

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http://www.mlnsports.com/graphics/addept/2005/09/MLNAd2005_Hoops.gif
Kirk Penney (NZ) vs Bang Sung-Yoon (South Korea) in NBDL

[Durbansandshark]

This season the NBDL has a major change to its playoff format. Three rounds up to the NBDL Championship will be best of three affairs, each with the first game being at the home of the lower seed. The Eastern and Western Division winners along with the next six runnerup teams with the best records, regardless of division, will qualify for the NBDL postseason. The top three NBDL teams records-wise, will select who they'll play in the first round of the postseason with the better division winner select their opponent first, the second division winner will select second, the top wild card winner will select third.

We are now a step closer to having the first woman to coach in the NBA. We've had Olga Hrycak in the CIS' UQAM Carabins coaching the men's basketball team. Ashley McElhinney coached the ABA's Nashville Rhythm. Tennessee State had its female AD end up coaching for a game in 2003 due to the discipline of the head coach (brought a gun to the campus, against Tennessee law) and his assistant (suspension). the ABA's Jersey Express has a woman coaching. A few women coached in the community college system. Now the still-as-yet-unnamed Frisco, Texas NBDL squad (formerly the Colorado 14ERS) has made a first in the league with hiring the legendary Nancy Lieberman as the team's first head coach in Frisco. If there's one thing about her, she's certainly no stranger to history making. She was a star at Old Dominion in the old AIAW, led the first USA women's Olympic basketball team to silver in Montreal 1976, played for the Dallas Diamonds in the WPBL, became the oldest player in the WNBA's history by for the Phoenix Mercury (and broke her own record with a seven day contract with the Detroit Shock in 2008 at age 50), played with men professionally for the USBL's Springfield Fame, NBA Summer Leagues teams, and the New York Generals, and coached and GM the Detroit Shock. Frisco also nabbed Spud Webb to be the team's president of basketball operations and longtime NBA head and assistant coach Del Harris (don't forget he coached also China in Athens in 2004) as GM. All three each have a Dallas connection.

Your 2009 NBDL Draft Results (www.nba.com/dleague/draft_board_2009.html)

NBDL season 2009-10 starts November 17, as a reminder

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL 2009-10 season has just started over this past season. Springfield Armor (formerly the Anahiem Arsenal) brought in 4000 fans at the MassMutual Center for the home opener that was presented by Six Flags New England (with that dancing black glasses-wearing bald guy and Bugs, Tweety, and Daffy Duck and the Armorettes dance team to greet fans) and additional 2000 fans came to see them Saturday night. Neither game resulted in a W for the new hometown team against the Iowa Energy, but fans indicate something positive for the Armor to support.

France's Alexis Ajinca was sent down to Maine by Charlotte on Monday. Maine Red Claws' opening home game is in two days against Springfield in a New England NBDL rivalry.

Soon after Del Harris accepted the GM post for the new Frisco, Texas NBDL team (formerly the Colorado 14ERS), Harris agrees to be an assistant coach for the woeful New Jersey Nets after announcing his retirement from the coaching ranks last season as a Chicago Bulls assistant. The first NBDL callup of sorts.

[Durbansandshark]

Two coaches from the Great Britain men's basketball team, Chris Finch the head coach and Nick Nurse the assistant, are enjoying their seasons in the NBDL. Finch is leading the Rio Grande Valley Vipers to a current 6-1 record as they sit atop the Western Conference a half a game over the Utah Flash. Nurse's Iowa Energy just lost over the weekend but they also are on top with a 6-1 record in the Eastern Conference with the new Maine Red Claws behind them by half a game. By contrast, the Vipers have won six in a row after losing their first game.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, new coach Will Voigt is undergoing a tough time with the Bakersfield Jam. The team is winless after 8 games. Another winless team is the new Springfield Armor--they lost 7 straight.

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL Showcase 2010 is up and running right now in Boise, Idaho at the Idaho Stampede's home court. A couple of hours ago. I caught a glimpse of the first game of 16between the Albuquerque Thunderbirds and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Yaroslav Korolev scores 20 for Albuquerque as the Thunderbirds win over the Vipers 101-84. The new Maine Red Claws and the Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter are playing right now at this writing.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/showcase_2010.html

[Durbansandshark]

Something tells me we will get to know the name of the Frisco NBDL team come NBA All- Star Weekend.

Instead of that debacle that is the ABA, Versus struck a new TV deal with the much more stable and proven NBDL. It will air 10 regular season games and six playoff ones throughout the year. So if you're in the States, you can now catch it on TV in another option than NBATV.
http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/versus_100104.html

Bakersfield Jam just picked up G/F Patrick Mutombo (no relation to Dikembe), whom coach Will Voigt knew as an assistant at Metropolitan St.

You just gotta love a story like Sundiata Gaines and his miraclous buzzer beater shot for the Jazz against the Cavs. Stuff like this gives the NBDL a much-needed calling card and giving players a fair shot in the NBA.
http://my.nba.com/cms/107418/sundiata_gaines_interview

[Durbansandshark]

Iowa Energy, surely a NBDL championship contender, has the best record in the league right now at 30-9 coming into the postseason stretch. But the hottest team in the NBDL right now is the Sioux Falls Skyforce, currently on a 8-game winning streak. Springfield Armour, formerly the Anahiem Arsenal, still holds the worst record at 6-29. Thankfully, the Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter is not playoff-bound with their 12-22 record near the bottom of the Western Division. :)

[Durbansandshark]

Utah Flash re-acquire guard Joe Darger - Mar 26, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Utah Flash announced today that they have re-acquired guard Joe Darger (6'7''-F-86, college: UNLV). Darger played for the Flash in three games earlier this season.

Darger, a product of the Mountain West Conference, was selected by Utah in the fifth round of the 2009-10 NBA Development League draft. He was waived from the team during training camp, but has continued to be a practice player for the Flash since being waved. Darger, a rookie out of UNLV, started all 32 games of his senior year, averaging 9.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. Darger will fill a roster spot recently vacated by Kosta Koufos who was recalled to the Utah Jazz.

The Flash will host the Idaho Stampede Friday and Saturday this week. Tip-off for both games is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the McKay Events Center

Shakur returns to Tulsa 66ers - Mar 26, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Tulsa 66ers are getting back its leading scorer after a ten-day call-up to the parent club Oklahoma City Thunder. Mustafa Shakur (6'3''-G-84, agency: Buck Andre, college: Arizona) was called up to the Thunder on March 16th. He didn't appear in any of the five games after being called up. The former Arizona guard was averaging 20.8 points, 7.1 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 2.3 steals in 40 games this season for the 66ers. For his efforts, Shakur was named to the NBA D-League Western Conference All-Star team.
The 66ers went 0-and-3 without him. After going undrafted out of Arizona in 2007, Shakur played overseas in Poland, Spain and Greece

Courtney Sims Released by Puerto Rican Club Capitanes de Arecibo - Mar 26, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Reigning NBA D-League MVP Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) has had his brief stint in Puerto Rico come to an end. According to El Nuevo Dia (www.elnuevodia.com) , Sims has been released by the Capitanes de Arecibo. Arecibo won last night 79-74 against Leones de Ponce, playing without Sims. Even though they sit in second place at 5-1 in the standings, Arecibo has not been happy with their offensive performance during the beginning of the season and Sims has paid that price. Arecibo is in a unique situation, jointly competing in the USAs Premier Basketball League (PBL) as well as their domestic League in Puerto Rico. Sims, a former member of the Iowa Energy who averaged 12.4 points and 6.6 rebounds in 14 games this season, joined Arecibo in the beginning of March. In three games in the PBL, Sims was dominant, scoring 67 points (22.3ppg) to go along with 44 rebounds (14.7rpg) and six blocks (2.0bpg) in that short stretch. However in play on the Island, the former Michigan big man offered much less impressive production. Over five games he averaged 9.0 points and 4.4 rebounds in just less than 20 minutes. Sims was the fifth leading scorer in the D-League during the 2008-09 season at 22.8 points per game and was third in rebounding (11.0rpg) on his way to being named the leagues MVP. However, for all of Sims success in the D-League, he has not been able to turn it into successful stints in the NBA or overseas. This season alone, he was released after just one game with Russian powerhouse CSKA Moscow and during his NBA call-ups (four) he has only appeared in a total of five games for 24 minutes, totaling six career NBA points and rebounds

Friday's games (11) review - Mar 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Ft.Wayne MA - Erie Bay H. 82-95
Blake Ahearn (6'2''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri St.) tallied 29 points as the Erie Bayhawks scored a 95-82 win over the Mad Ants Friday night, as Fort Wayne was forced to play with just seven healthy players. Oliver Lafayette (6'2''-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Houston) led the Ants with 18 points, while Rod Wilmont added 16 and Rob Kurz, who played over 44 minutes, had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The two teams play the last of their three games in a row in Erie Sunday. *Courtesy of www.indianasnewscenter.com

Albuquerque - Tulsa 66ers 86-106
An almost perfect night from the field for Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) and a suffocating defense sparked Tulsa's blowout victory Friday over Albuquerque at the Tulsa Convention Center. In a 106-86 victory, Williams finished with 19 points and 16 rebounds on 9-of-13 shooting, including consecutive two-handed slams to open the fourth quarter. Byron Mullens, the leading scorer for Tulsa, had 24 points and five rebounds for the 66ers, including 4-of-6 shooting beyond the arc. Over the last six games, Mullens is 10-of-17 on 3s, an impressive 58.8 percent over that span. Albuquerque was led in scoring by Keith McLeod (6'2''-G-79, college: Bowling Green) who finished with a game- high 29 points. *Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Idaho S. - Utah F. 109-116
The Utah Flash are one step closer to the playoffs with a 116 - 109 win against the Idaho Stampede. The Flash were down one point with three minutes remaining until a three pointer by Kevin Kruger put the Flash up two. Later in the fourth, The Flash closed out the game consecutive steals converted into breakaway dunks by Brian Hamilton and Bennet Davis to push their lead to five with less than a minute remaining. The Flash were lead by Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: La-Lafayette) who scored 11 points after halftime, and finished the game with 23 points and 11 rebounds. In the fourth quarter, there were four lead changes with the difference being the Flash's ability to score from behind the arc and defend at the end of the game. The Flash ended up with six players in double figures with Utah's Orien Greene leading all scorers with 23. Idaho was led by Taylor's 22 points while Coby Karl (6'5''-G-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) 's 21 points. Lance Allred added had a double-double with 18 points and 15 rebounds. The two teams face-off for the third game in four nights tomorrow in a continued battle for a final playoff spot. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. at the McKay Events Centers. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Maine RC - Reno Bighorns 91-102
Desmon Farmer (6'5''-G-81, college: USC) reached the 30-point plateau for the 10th time this season on Friday night, finishing with 32 to propel the Reno Bighorns to a 102-91 victory over the Maine Red Claws in the Reno Events Center. Farmer's 32 paced five Bighorns in double figures Friday night. Rod Benson (6'10''-F/C-84, college: California) notched his sixth-straight double-double with 18 points and 15 boards, while Doug Thomas recorded a double-double of his own with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Former Red Claw guard Will Blalock picked-up 17 points and nine assists on the night. Morris Almond led the way for Maine with 22 points, while Paul Davis collected a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Russell Robinson, who played the entire 2008-09 season in Reno and began this season with the Bighorns before a mid-season trade for Blalock, finished with 18 points and eight assists. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Sioux Falls S. 101-118
The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Springfield Armor 118-101 on Friday night at the Sioux Falls Arena. GATORADE call-up candidate Alexander Johnson (6'10''-F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Florida St.) broke the franchise record for most free throws without a miss (17-of-17) to help Sioux Falls improve to 18-5 at home. Alexander Johnson posted his 11th double-double of the season with a game-high 31 points to go along with 11 rebounds. Joe Krabbenhoft (6'7''-G/F-87, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisconsin) added 24 points off the bench behind 9-of-12 shooting and a perfect 3-of-3 from the 3-point line while McCray dished out 13 assists for the second time this season. Marcus Campbell recorded his ninth double-double of the season with a season-high 30 points and 12 rebounds. Abdulai Jalloh and Tre Whitted came off the bench and chipped in 16 and 14 points, respectively. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Dakota W. - Iowa E. 108-112
Write Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) and the Iowa Energy into the NBA Development League record book. Be sure to use a pencil, though. Stinson set the league assist record and Earl Barron scored six points in overtime as the Energy defeated the Dakota Wizards 112-108 Saturday night at Wells Fargo Arena. The Energy also tied a D-League record with 36 wins. Point guard Stinson (20 pts) dished out 13 assists, putting his season total at 516. That breaks a league record of 504 set Walker Russell of Fort Wayne last season. Iowa's Cartier Martin (6'7''-G/F-84, college: Kansas St.) finished with a game-high 30 points. *Courtesy of www.desmoinesregister.com

Los Angeles D. - Rio Grande 95-110
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers reduced the magic number to two to clinch the D-League's conference championship with a 110-95 win over the Los Angeles D-Fenders on Friday night. Any combination of Vipers' wins and Austin Toros' losses that equal two will wrap up that milestone. The bigger goal is to win the D-League championship. With Friday's victory, the Vipers have guaranteed home court edge in the first round of the playoffs. Ernest Scott (6'7''-F-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Valdosta St.) led the Vipers with 23 points. The locals hit 10 of 13 three-pointers in the second half after knocking down just one basket from long range in the opening half. The two teams return to State Farm Arena again on Saturday night. *Courtesy of www.krgv.com

[Durbansandshark]

Saturday's games (5) review - Mar 28, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Bakersfield J. - Austin T. 92-111
The Austin Toros clinched their spot in the playoffs, after beating the Bakersfield Jam at the Austin Convention Center, 111-92. Bakersfield's defense provided them a 32-20 lead after the first quarter. Brian Butch had 10 defensive rebounds in the quarter, and helped limit the Toros scoring. Squeaky Johnson missed an open three at the buzzer. The Toros were able to shorten the lead to seven multiple times during the second quarter, but it was not enough to contain Jeremy Wise and Reece Gaines who both had 14 points in the first half. Edward Basden (6'5''-G/F-83, college: Charlotte) nailed a three with :27 left in the half before stealing the ball away from Trey Johnson. Basden then passed the ball down court to Marcus Williams who was able to dunk with :10 left, ending the quarter with a Jam lead 58-49. Austin went on a 15-6 run to begin the third quarter. Basden's 24' jumper tied the game at 64. During the run Austin held Bakersfield to only 1-7 from the field. Dwayne Jones put the Toros within three with 1:57 left in the quarter after a made free throw. Neither team scored in the remainder of the quarter, allowing the Jam to hold their lead, 76-73. The fourth quarter began with both teams going to the line, making four freebies a piece during the first two minutes. Williams gave the Toros the lead after a long jumper. Johnson extended the Toros lead after back-to-back three pointers. Jones riled up the crowd with a wide-open layup that extended Austin's lead, 98-85. Two key factors that helped the Toros in the game were fast-break points (30-6) and three-point shots (15-3). All five of the Toros starters scored in double figures: Curtis Jerrells (6'1''-G-87, college: Baylor) (26), Williams (23), Basden (19), Jones (14), and Michael Joiner (10). Jerrells had a season-high 14 assists and Jones added 14 rebounds. Johnson tied his season-high with 17 points off the bench. Jam's Butch earned a double-double with 22 points and 20 rebounds. Bakersfield's four other starters also scored in double figures: Gaines (17), Johnson (16), Wise (16), and Daniels (13). The Toros will host Bakersfield tomorrow for an afternoon game at the Austin Convention Center. Tip-off is set for 5:00 CST. *Courtesy of http://news8austin.com

Los Angeles D. - Rio Grande 117-120
Perhaps on another occasion, Rio Grande Valley coach Chris Finch would have ripped into his team for allowing an outmatched opponent sneak back into a contest in which it was in control. But Saturday wasn't that time. Instead, there was relief on the Vipers' side when Ryan Forehan-Kelly's 3-point attempt at the buzzer clanged off the rim, which allowed RGV to hang on to a 120-117 victory at State Farm Arena. Ernest Scott (6'7''-F-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Valdosta St.) poured in 25 points on 8 of 12 shooting (7 of 11 from the 3-point arc) to lead the Vipers. Antonio Anderson (6'6''-G-85, college: Memphis) had 19 points and 10 assists. Will Conroy had 24 points and Stanley Asumnu had 16. Tucker led Los Angeles with 26 points off the bench. James Wright added 24. *Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

Idaho S. - Utah F. 104-113
The Utah Flash beat the Idaho Stampede for the third straight time this week with a 113-104 victory Saturday night at the McKay Events Center. The Utah Flash started the game with hot shooting and jumped out to an early eleven-point lead midway through the first quarter. Idaho closed the gap behind Coby Karl (6'5''-G-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) 's seven first quarter points but trailed by five at the end of the quarter with the score 30-25. Kevin Kruger led the way for the Flash scoring seven first quarter points. Full court pressure from Idaho led to an 11-2 run midway through the second quarter that cut the Utah lead to just one point. The Flash committed numerous turnovers but finished the quarter strong and extended the lead to 57-51 at halftime. Bennet Davis (6'9''-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern) led the Flash with 15 first half points and Donell Taylor scored nine first half points for Idaho. The Utah Flash continued to hold a comfortable lead throughout the third period of play as both teams continued to exchange baskets. Orien Greene and Davis each had seventeen points at the end of the third quarter to lead the balanced Flash attack. Idaho was led by Karl's 17 points at the end of the third period. Idaho couldn't cut into the lead as the Flash executed down the stretch and came away with the 113- 104 victory. The Flash never let Idaho get closer then eight points in the fourth quarter. Idaho was led by Karl's 18 points and Joe Dabbert's 10 points and 13 rebounds. The Flash were led by Davis and Greene's 21 points a piece. Andre Ingram and Kevin Kruger added 18 points and 17 points respectively. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Maine RC - Reno Bighorns 85-96
With their backs against the wall and hopes of a playoff berth threatened, the Reno Bighorns used a dominant fourth-quarter effort to collect a key 96-85 come-from-behind victory over the Maine Red Claws Saturday night in front of a raucous crowd in the Reno Events Center. The victory marked Reno's fourth straight, and put the Bighorns (25-22) in a virtual tie with the Tulsa 66ers for the eighth and final NBA D-League playoff spot. Tulsa plays Sunday, then the Bighorns and 66ers will meet on Monday in the Reno Events Center with significant playoff implications on the line. Maine (27-21) took a four-point lead into the break, and the Red Claws would grow the advantage to as many as 10 in the third quarter. But the Bighorns steadily carved into the Maine advantage, eventually taking the lead with 10:18 remaining in the ballgame. The Red Claws would regain the lead, 73-70, with just less than nine minutes to play, but the Bighorns would go on a 13-0 run to take a lead they would not relinquish, sealing the weekend sweep. Desmon Farmer (6'5''-G-81, college: USC) led all scorers with 22 points for Reno. Richard Frahm (6'5''-G-77, college: Gonzaga) and D.J. Strawberry each collected 12 points off the bench. Doug Thomas finished with 11 points and nine rebounds. Paul Davis and Maurice Ager shared the scoring lead for Maine with 17 points apiece. Kurt Looby kicked-in 10 points and 12 boards for the game's lone double-double. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Sioux Falls S. 104-113
The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Springfield Armor 113-104 in the regular season home finale on Saturday night in front of a crowd of 5,305 at the Sioux Falls Arena. Sioux Falls finished the regular season 19-5 at home while Springfield fell to 0-24 on the road in their inaugural campaign. After leading by eight points after the first quarter, Sioux Falls pushed the lead to 58-40 at halftime. Alexander Johnson (6'10''-F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Florida St.) nearly posted in double-double in the first half alone as he recorded 12 points and nine rebounds. Sioux Falls led by double-digits the entire second half until Springfield cut the deficit to eight points (110-102) with 30.9 seconds to go following a dunk by Noel Felix. Newly acquired guard Kirk Penney (6'5''-G-80, college: Wisconsin) helped the Skyforce maintain a comfortable lead as he scored 21 points in the second half behind 8-of-10 field goals. With the win the Skyforce inched closer to homecourt advantage in the first round of the 2010 NBA Development League Playoffs. Sioux Falls can lock up a No. 3 or 4 seed with one more win or a Dakota loss. Dakota plays at league-leading Iowa tomorrow at 4 p.m. CT. Penney scored a game-high 31 points in only his second game with the Skyforce including 12-of-17 shooting. Greg Steimsma had a solid game with 14 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks while Alexander Johnson (19 points, 13 rebounds) and David Bailey (17 points, 15 assists) both recorded double-doubles. Abdulai Jalloh led Springfield with a season-high 27 points, seven rebounds, and a season-high tying six steals. Felix and Marcus Campbell each posted a double-double with Felix scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds and Campbell scoring 20 points and snagging 10 rebounds.

[Durbansandshark]

Sunday's games - Mar 29, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Ft.Wayne MA - Erie Bay H. 114-110
Oliver Lafayette (6'2''-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Houston) scored a game-high 33 points in leading Fort Wayne to a 114-110 win against the Erie BayHawks before 2,370 fans at Tullio Arena on Sunday. A former BayHawk from a season ago, Lafayette scored 11 points in the fourth quarter that included two free throws with 3.6 seconds left to put away the BayHawks. Seven players scored in double figures for the Mad Ants (19-28), who only played seven players. Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.) led Erie with 28 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Erie (19-29) played its third straight game without starting shooting guard Mike Gansey, who had played sick for the previous three weeks. The BayHawks have lost two of their past three games without Gansey, who has averaged 18.6 points in his 25 games with Erie. The BayHawks traded their first-round pick in the 2009 D-League draft, combo guard Donell Taylor, to Idaho for Gansey on New Year's Eve. The BayHawks will play their final home game Friday against Springfield and close out the season Saturday at Maine. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Albuquerque - Tulsa 66ers 84-100
The Tulsa 66ers completed a sweep of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds at the Tulsa Convention Center arena with a 100-84 victory this afternoon. Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) led all Tulsa players with 25 and 9 field goals and Oklahoma City Thunder assignee B.J. Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) led the Sixers in rebounds as the Tulsa NBA D-League team cruised to an easy victory. At one point they had a 16-0 lead over the T-Birds before the Albuquerque team found the basket, but they never surrendered a the lead which was never less than 10 points at any given time in the game. Today's game comes on the heels of Friday nights 106-86 win over the Thunderbirds which was a much closer affair. While the T-Birds looked slow and were the victims of poor execution this afternoon, Firday night's game was more of a back-and-forth affair in which the T-Birds saw an early lead in the first quarter shut down by a 17-2 run that gave them the lead from the first quarter onward until the end of the game. Led by Mullens, Williams and Shakur on Friday, the 66ers (24-21) improved to 14-7 at home and finished with five players in double-figure scoring. Owens and Moses Ehambe each scored 17 points. With Sunday's victory the 66ers improve to 15-7 at home and 25-21 overall and had 6 players in double figures on the score sheet. The 66ers sit in 4th place in the D-league Western Conference standings, 8.5 games behind Rio Grande Valley. The 66ers continue to improve with every game and are set prime to enter the NBA D-League playoffs to commence in April. They travel to Reno Nevada to take on the Reno Bighorns Monday night at 9pm Tulsa time, then swing through Austin to take on the Toros on Wednesday night at 7:30. *Courtesy of tulsatoday.com

Dakota W. - Iowa E. 107-99
Dakota Wizards guard Maurice Baker scored 11 of his 18 points in the final 3:53 of the game as the Wizard defeated the Iowa Energy 107-99 Sunday in Des Moines. Corsley Edwards (6'9''-C/F-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) led Dakota with 19 points and 9 rebounds while Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Fresno St.) added 18 points and 10 rebounds. Dakota moves to 28-20 on the year with the win. The Energy were led by Martin's 28 points and 7 rebounds while Earl Barron (18 points, 14 rebounds) and Curtis Stinson (26 points, 13 assists) each had double-doubles for the home team. Iowa falls to 36-12 on the season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Bakersfield J. - Austin T. 110-122
The Toros secured a postseason berth Saturday. This came as news to their head coach. 'You know what, I'm kind of glad that I didn't know,' Quin Snyder said following his team's playoff-clinching victory. 'You preach to them a lot about staying focused on playing well, and the winning takes care of itself.' Snyder's message hasn't fallen on deaf ears. The Toros defeated the Bakersfield Jam, 122-110, on Sunday at the Austin Convention Center for their fifth consecutive victory. With four games remaining in the regular season, the Toros (30-16) aim to carry that momentum into the playoffs. 'I think offensively we're in a pretty good rhythm right now,' said Dwayne Jones (6'11''-C-83, college: St.Joseph's), who had 27 points and 12 rebounds. 'But defensively we've all got to get on the same page. That's what we've got to use these last (few) games for.' For the second consecutive game, the Toros had six players — including all five starters — score in double figures. The Toros, who trailed 65-63 at the half, also shot the ball well from beyond the arc, which has been a trend of late. Michael Joiner (6'7''-F-81, college: Florida St.) (18 points, seven rebounds) had four of the team's nine three-pointers, and Carldell Johnson (13 points, five rebounds) knocked down a pair of threes off the bench. Curtis Jerrells (19 points, five rebounds) keyed a 14-4 run that gave the Toros a 97-88 lead entering the fourth quarter. Jerrells was 10 of 12 from the foul line, and as a team the Toros were 33 of 44 from the line. Marcus Williams (26 points, seven assists, five rebounds) had 11 points in the fourth quarter to help the Toros protect their lead. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

San Antonio Spurs to Sign Alonzo Gee - Mar 29, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
According to Scott Schroeder of Ridiculous Upside (http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/3/29/1394643/source-spurs-to-sign-alonzo-gee#storyjump), former Austin Toros star Alonzo Gee (6'6''-G-87, college: Alabama) will be signed by the San Antonio Spurs for the remainder of the season. Gee, a 6-6 wing out of Alabama just finished playing out his second consecutive10-day contract with the Washington Wizards when the Spurs moved in to pick him up. Gee appeared in 11 games for Washington since being called up on March 7th, averaging 7.4 points and 2.9 rebounds in 16.5 minutes while shooting 48.3% from the field. Gee started his last two games for the Wizards in place of the injured Al Thornton (6'8''-F-83, college: Florida St.) and responded with 25 points, including a career-high 19 in 32 minutes against Charlotte on Friday night. In fact, his performance led Wizards head coach Flip Saunders to state that the Wizards would in fact sign Gee themselves. However, not wanting to tie up cap-space that will become available this summer, the Wizards passed; leaving the Spurs more than willing it appears to clean up. Gee is already very familiar with the Spurs having played for their NBA Summer League entry in Las Vegas, and spending of this season in the D-League with Austin. In Austin, Gee was part of the three-horned attack that was fellow-rookie Curtis Jerrells (6'1''-G-87, college: Baylor) (also signed by San Antonio) and former NBA center Dwayne Jones. Gee appeared in 36 games for Austin, averaging 21.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 52.5% from the field and 39.3% from three. An All-SEC Second Team selection during his senior season at Alabama, Gee was also selected as an NBA D-league All-Star this season. Once again it seems that the Spurs are the clear winners in terms of innovative use of the D-League. Gee along with Jerrells, were plying for the Toros who are the wholly-owned D-League affiliate of the Spurs, but were not actual members of San Antonios roster, thus leaving them open to be signed by any NBA franchise (ie; Washington in the case of Gee). The Spurs now invest a minimum amount of guaranteed money for the last few weeks of the season to keep Jerrells and Gee, while partially guaranteeing to have them next season once again in the summer and training camp. Already familiar with the Spurs system and culture under the guidance of Quin Snyder in Austin, the Spurs can continue to monitor and develop the talent that they have obviously recognized in Jerrells and now Gee. In the case of Gee, he may even get a chance to stay in San Antonio for a while, as his solid play in Washington may earn him some minutes in lieu of the unimpressive Keith Bogans. Regardless, the Spurs have shown once again to be one of the few NBA clubs who not only say that the D-League is a valuable development tool, but actually put those beliefs into use

Julien Mills Signed by Fort Wayne - Mar 30, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Former Ball State University guard Julien Mills (6'4''-G/F-85, college: Ball St.) has been signed by the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA D-League. Mills joined the Mad Ants for last nights 108-88 road victory over the Springfield Armor. Mills is a third year professional who played this season in Australia for Cairns Taipans of the NBL. In 28 games he averaged 12.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 45.5% from the field and 34.6% from three. Mills fills the roster spot vacated when former NBA guard Dan Dickau was released last week. In addition to Australia, Mills has also played in Hungary and Poland. In Hungary during the 2007-08 season he was named the Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Import Player of the Year after averaging 23.2 points.

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Sacramento Waives Former D-League Assignee Joey Dorsey - Mar 30, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
The Sacramento Kings waived seldom-used second-year forward/center Joey Dorsey (6'9''-F-83, college: Memphis) on Tuesday, ending his brief career as a King. Traded to the Kings in February as part of a nine-player, three team deal that saw Kevin Martin, Carl Landry and Tracy McGrady change locations, Dorsey appeared in eight games for Sacramento, averaging 1.5 points and 2.3 rebounds in 6.5 minutes. On the season he has appeared in 15 games total between Houston and Sacramento, totaling 106 minutes, 23 points and 43 rebounds. Dorsey, the all-time leading rebounder in University of Memphis and Conference USA history (1,209), has appeared in 23 career games in the D-League, all with Rio Grande Valley, the Rockets affiliate. This season he was dominant at times for the Western Conference leading Vipers, appearing in 16 games (all starts) and averaging 14.9 points, 13.3 rebounds (2nd in the league), 1.7 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.4 blocks while shooting a ridiculous 64.7% from the field. Dorsey may end up heading back to RGV, if the Rockets feel they would like to keep working with and developing the raw but powerful big man. The Kings also announced that second-year swingman Dominic McGuire (6'8''-F/G-85, college: Fresno St.) will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn right plantar fascia in his foot. The Kings injury woes, rookie-phenom Tyreke Evans (6'6''-G-89, college: Memphis) is still out with post-concussion symptoms, may actually lead to the Kings signing a call-up from the D-League as they are extremely thin at the guard position. Unusually bad roster balance has left the Kings with a glutton of power forward / center types (thus the release of Dorsey), but very few ball handlers. Scott Schroeder of Ridiculous Upside offers some suggestions as to just who the Kings might want (need) to sign (http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/3/29/1395298/sacramento-kings-play-beno-udrih#storyjump) to fill in behind Beno Udrih (6'5''-G-82).

Latest games - Apr 1, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Tulsa 66ers - Austin T. 109-104
If any Toros player is qualified to make sweeping comparisons between this year's team and those of the past two seasons, it's Carldell 'Squeaky' Johnson. And the way Johnson sees it, as he prepares for his third consecutive postseason appearance with the Toros, this team is tougher to defend. 'We've got more guys able to make plays on their own,' Johnson said. For all their offensive options, the Toros still have some things to sew up on the defensive side. This much was evident in a 109-104 loss to Tulsa on Wednesday at the Austin Convention Center. After building a big lead, the Toros (31-17) could do little to stop the 66ers (26-21) down the stretch. Tulsa outscored the Toros 42-18 in the fourth quarter to erase what at one point was a 23-point deficit. 'We've got to put 40 minutes together on the defensive end,' said Eddie Basden (14 points), one of six Toros to score in double figures. Leading 95-78 with less than seven minutes left, the Toros made just two field goals the rest of the way. A layup by Dwayne Jones (19 points, 16 rebounds, four steals) with 4:40 remaining was the Toros' final field goal. Off the bench, Moses Ehambe (6'6''-G/F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: ORU) has 21 of his game-high 29 points in the fourth quarter for Tulsa. Marcus Williams led the Toros with 27 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. Johnson had 15 points off the bench. Eric Dawson, the Toros' latest addition, had five points and four rebounds off the bench in his first game with the team. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Springfield A. 108-88
If you outrebound a team by 16, grab 18 offensive rebounds, and take 19 more shots than the other team, you expect to win a basketball game, right? That's exactly what the Springfield Armor did Monday night in D-League action at the MassMutual Center, but suffered a 108-88 loss to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Oliver Lafayette (6'2''-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Houston) (26 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds) and Robert Kurz (6'9''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) (24 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists) led the Mad Ants. Ayers (19 points) and Carlos English (10 points) were also in double digits for Fort Wayne. Justin Hawkins led six players in double figures for Springfield with 16 points. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Rio Grande - Idaho S. 153-165 OT
Andre Barrett (5'9''-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Seton Hall) led the Idaho Stampede as they defeated the Rio Grande Valley Vipers with an all-time team and D-League high 165 points to the Vipers 153. The Vipers are no stranger to record breaking games as just last night they played the Flash in Orem, where Utah broke the NBA D-League season high record points with 143. Both teams came out strong from the starting tip. Rio Grande Valley shot 63.3% from the field in the first half, giving them 84 points heading to the locker room, which tied the D-League record for most points in one half. Idaho wasn't far behind with 79 points and both teams had four players apiece already in double-digit figures. Although the Stampede fought hard and outscored the Vipers in the second half, they found themselves down by three with 12 seconds on the clock in the forth quarter. Idaho's Andre Andre Barrett found an open Mildon Ambres who shot a three point shot to tie the game with just three seconds left in the contest. As the home crowd went crazy the Vipers were unable to make a basket and the game went into overtime. It was all Idaho for the remaining five minutes as the Stampede outscored the Vipers 19-7 securing the win in a record breaking game. The 165 points was an all-time record high for the Stampede as well as the NBA D-League. The previous Stampede record was 151 in 2004 against Yakima. Stampede Head Coach Bob MacKinnon broke his own record and the NBA Development League record of 155 points last season when he was with the Colorado 14ers. 'I told our guys it was going to be a high scoring game,' said Stampede Head Coach Bob MacKinnon. 'I am proud of how we played together as a team and it was an exciting game to watch.' The Stampede finished the game with a season high five players earning double-doubles. Andre Barrett led the pack scoring a game and season high of 42 points and 11 assists, Donell Taylor (6'6''-G-82, college: UAB) with a season high 34 points and 13 rebounds, Ambres also with a season high 32 points and 12 rebounds, Coby Karl with 27 points and 12 rebounds, and Joe Dabbert with 21 points and 12 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Los Angeles D. - Austin T. 94-101
For three quarters, the Austin Toros couldn't get much of anything right. There were deflected passes, cut-off driving lanes and missed shots. Entering the fourth quarter, the Toros faced a 80-64 deficit and showed no signs of turning it around. But they did. Austin went on a 16-6 run to start the fourth quarter and tie the game at 86 all with about five minutes remaining in the game, and finished the game on a 9-2 run to beat the Los Angeles D-Fenders 101-94. In all, the Toros outscored Los Angeles 37-14 in the final period and overcame 16 first half turnovers to win their sixth straight game. Curtis Jerrells (6'1''-G-87, college: Baylor) led the Toros in scoring with 27 points, while adding seven assists and six rebounds (though he did have six of Austin's 21 turnovers); and Dwayne Jones scored 19 points and pulled down 21 rebounds, including eight offensive. Marcus Williams (6'7''-F-86, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Arizona) also continued his excellent return to the D-League with 23 points and seven rebounds, although he also contributed six turnovers. Los Angeles was able to control the game early by cutting off Toro driving lanes, which had come so easy since the return of Williams to the team, which limited the open looks from the perimeter that players like Jerrells, Eddie Basden, Michael Joiner and Lewis Clinch received. It also created turnovers, which led to easy baskets for the D-Fenders. Los Angeles scored 15 points off turnovers in the first half and led 55-42 at halftime, despite being out-rebounded 22-15 by the Toros and not hitting a single 3-pointer. In the fourth quarter, though, the Toros knocked down outside shots early and put pressure on Los Angeles. Forcing five turnovers in the fourth, the Toros were able to take the lead and knock down free throws late to hold on. The Toros are now just two games behind the Rio Grande Valley Vipers for first place in the West Conference. *Courtesy of www.48minutesofhell.com

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Rio Grande - Utah F. 137-143 OT
Kevin Kruger (6'1''-G-83, college: UNLV), scored 14 of his game high 32 points in overtime as the Utah Flash snuck by the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in their lone meeting this season 143-137 Tuesday night at the McKay Events Centers. Kruger, the son of former Texas-Pan American Head Coach Lon Kruger, was the difference maker in the second half and extra session to help lead Flash to the victory. The Vipers loss, and Austin's win over Los Angeles Tuesday night keeps the magic number for clinching the Western Conference at one. The Vipers had a strong first half. The Vipers led in the first quarter by six after Julian Sensley's slam dunk put the Vipers up 20-14 with four minutes remaining in the opening period. The teams would trade baskets for the remainder of the frame with the Vipers leading 29-27 at the end of the first 12 minutes. The Vipers would run their lead to as many as 11 points in the second quarter. Stanley Asumnu's running lay-up capped off an 11-3 run to give the Vipers the 49-38 lead with 6:31 remaining in the first half. An 8-0 run would pull the Flash back within three and Brian Hamilton's three-pointer capped off a 9-2 run to give Utah a 60-59 lead. The game would end up being tied at 61 at the intermission. Foul trouble would ultimately do the Vipers in. Three Vipers players fouled out, and foul trouble kept Ernest Scott out for a good portion of the first half. Scott did have a strong end of the game by scoring 12 points after the third quarter. The third quarter belonged to Utah as they outscored RGV 32-30 in the third period. In the fourth, the Vipers had an opportunity to win the game in regulation. Will Conroy (6'2''-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington)'s runner in the lane was too strong sending the game into the extra session. Utah outscored RGV in the extra session 20-14 to earn the victory. Will Conroy led the Vipers scoring output with 28 points while dishing out a team high 10 assists for his 16th double-double of the season. Julian Sensley earned a double-double as well scoring 27 points with 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Last Night in the D-League: Fort Wayne Tramples Springfield 100-83 - Apr 2, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Another sad night in Springfield, as the visiting Fort Wayne Mad Ants came to town and crawled over the host Armor, 100-83. Springfield falls to a league and D-League historic worse 7-42 and is assured of not reaching 10 victories with only one game remaining tomorrow in Erie against the Bayhawks. Former Golden State Warriors forward Robert Kurz (6'9''-F-85, college: Notre Dame) led the way for Fort Wayne (21-28) with a game high 28 points on a sensational 10-11 shooting. After a back-and forth opening few minutes, the Mad Ants seized control and took a dominating 52-35 lead into the half. Springfield (7-42) picked up their offense in the second half, but couldnt slow down Fort Wayne. Tre Whitted (6'4''-G-84, college: Marshall) led the Armor with 21 points to go along with a game-high 11 rebounds. The Armor committed more turnovers (22 13), had less steals (15 5), and made less threes (6 12), all ingredients which added up to their 42nd loss of the season.
MAD ANTS: Robert Kurz (27pt+9rb), Oliver Lafayette (24pt+5rb+9as), Roderick Wilmont (16pt+6rb+6as), Carlos English (10pt)
ARMOR: Tre Whitted (21pt+11rb), Justin Hawkins (18pt+6rb), Abdulai Jalloh (13pt), Dante Milligan (7pt+9rb)

Former NBA D-League Assignee Alando Tucker Lands in Puerto Rico - Apr 2, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
After an inauspicious end to his brief NBA career, former Wisconsin Badger star and NBA first round draft selection Alando Tucker (6'6''-F-84, college: Wisconsin) has re-surfaced on the shores of Puerto Rico with the Gallitos de Isabela. The former Phoenix Sun and Minnesota Timberwolves forward was the 29th overall selection in the first round of the 2007 NBA Draft by Phoenix, but appeared in only 51 games during his three-year career. His career averages of 4.1 points and 1.0 rebound while shooting 42.3% from the field and 29.4% from three are not the types of numbers many predicted for the all-time leading scorer at the University of Wisconsin. This season Tucker was sent to Minnesota in a trade for Jason Hart but could not make an impact on arguably the worst team in the NBA. While he was never a prolific outside shooter at Wisconsin, Tucker found ways to score whether in the mid-range game or with powerful drives to the basket. However, this didnt translate to the NBA. Conversely, his immense talent put on display in the D-League, where he spent a large portion of the 2007-08 season as an assigned member of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds. In 21 games for Albuquerque he led the D-League in scoring with a blistering 27.7 points per game, while also contributing a solid 6.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists from the small forward position. Tucker will look to use Puerto Rico as a platform to impress and catch on with another NBA club for the Summer League in Las Vegas with hopes of re-starting his once promising career. In Puerto Rico he will be under pressure to perform, as the league has shown little patience for 'high-profile' players who fail to live up to standards. Most recently, former D-League MVP Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) and one-time NBA All-Star Antoine Walker have been shown the door on their way out after un-remarkable performances. Coincidentally, Tucker fills the spot on Isabela once occupied by former D-Leaguer Devin Green (Los Angeles D-Fenders) who suffered a leg injury last week and was waived to make room for Tucker. In Tuckers debut for Gallitos he scored 16 points and pulled down six rebounds in a 73-71 loss against Caciques de Humacao which features fellow D-League alum James Mays (6'9''-F-86, college: Clemson) (Colorado 14ers) and John Millsap (6'6''-F-82, college: UTSA) (Utah Flash). Notable teammates of Tuckers include a former Big 10 adversary, Shaun Pruittt (6'10''-C-85, college: Illinois) from Illinois as well as Filiberto Rivera (6'2''-G-82, college: UTEP) who stared at UTEP and is a member of Puerto Rico's National Team.

New York Knicks Sign Iowa Energy Center Earl Barron - Apr 3, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
As another disappointing NBA season draws to a close for the New York Knicks, their apparent end-of-season D-League love fest starts once again. 2010 NBA D-league All-Star Earl Barron (7'0''-C-81, college: Memphis) of the Iowa Energy has been signed to a 10-day contract by the New York Knicks. The Knicks went on a D-League shopping spree at the end of last season, signing Chris Hunter (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Michigan), Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan), Mouhamed Sene (7'0''-C-86), Crawford Joe (6'5''-G-86, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Kentucky) and Demetris Nichols (6'9''-F-84, college: Syracuse) to audition during the last week and a half of the regular season. Barron is just as deserving as those players and may get some time to play considering that Wilson Chandler is out for the rest of the season and Al Harrington has been battling through numerous bumps and bruises of late as well. Barron, a product of the University of Memphis Barron has appeared in 47 games, all starts, for Iowa this season, averaging 16.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 31.7 minutes. He scored in double-figures 39 times, registering 26 double-doubles. Barron has had previous run in the NBA, as a member of the Miami Heat for three seasons, between 2005 and 2008. In 82 career NBA games with Miami, he has averaged 4.9 points and 3.0 rebounds in just less than 14 minutes. His best season in the NBA was ironically his last, as during the 2007-08 campaign he averaged 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 46 games. Barron has spent parts of five seasons in the D-League, while also playing overseas in Turkey and the Philippines. Barron was with new York last night but did not suit up during their 117-128 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL 2010 Playoffs

Iowa Energy beat Utah Flash 2 games to 1

Tulsa 66ERS beat Sioux Falls Skyforce 2 games to 1

Rio Grande Valley Vipers beat Reno Bighorns 2 games to 1

Austin Toros beat Dakota Wizards 2 games to 1

NBDL Semifinals
Iowa Energy vs. Tulsa 66ERS
Rio Grande Valley Vipers vs. Austin Toros

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Both NBDL series in this year's edition of the 2010 NBDL Playoffs are knotted up 1-1. Tonight we will see either Iowa or Tulsa will become the first team to punch their ticket to 2010 NBDL Finals (game just got underway as I write this).

Last night, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers managed to tie their aforementioned semifinal series duel with in-state Texas rival, the Austin Toros, 137-110. And that was not all! What inspired them to do so was when Vipers (and Team GB) coach Chris Finch was awarded the NBDL's Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year Award and F Mike Harris earned the league MVP award following three callups to the NBA. Harris produced 41 points in Game 2.

Austin's Alonzo Gee gets Rookie Of the Year.

UPDATE: Frisco's new NBDL franchise, formerly the Colorado 14ERS, finally has a name. Announced Saturday, welcome the Texas Legends, "a tribute to the great men and women who make the state of Texas what it is today...from early pioneers of freedom to modern-day heroes, we celebrate those who sacrificed greatly and achieve the honorable," says Donn Nelson

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Tulsa is the first team in the 2010 NBDL Finals slated to tip-off soon after winning the last two in their semifinals series against Iowa 127-122 in Des Moines. Six Iowa players scored in double figures last night to rally the Energy in the second half.
www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100420/TULIWA/recap.html

Rio Grande Valley/Austin's semifinal series will conclude tonight as Tulsa awaits the winner of that in the Rio Grande Valley. Game 1 will be at the Tulsa Convention Center. For sure, it will be a southwestern feel for the NBDL title this year.

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Rio Grande Valley Vipers will go the 2010 NBDL Finals against Tulsa. Perhaps it would been fitting, had Iowa won the night before, that the two coaches and friends involved with the British basketball team, Chris Finch and Nick Nurse, would've faced each other for the Finals. The 66ERS, though, had other ideas. Back to last night's game, it was incredible classic (nba.fanhouse.com/2010/04/22/nba-d-league-playoffs-vipers-defeat-toros-in-classic-to-advance/) in Hidalgo, Texas in front of a huge crowd (by NBDL standards) at the State Farm Arena. The end result was a 99-97 win for the Vipers over the Quinn Snyder-led Austin Toros. League followers proclaimed it as the biggest game in the NBDL's young history (nba.fanhouse.com/2010/04/21/nba-d-league-playoffs-biggest-game-in-d-league-history-tonight/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter).

The Vipers enjoyed, arguably, the most successful season in NBDL history (nba.fanhouse.com/2010/03/22/rio-grande-valley-2010-best-nba-d-league-season-ever/) with a record nine callups to the NBA, just the Houston Rockets, and dealing with the customary and complicated situations pertaining to minor league teams: juggling with callups to the big show, handling assignments, molding raw players into NBA-worthy players who crave work, and wins and losses matter all the time. They sit 31-13 in the regular season and swept the best NBDL team Iowa, their record was 35-11, in the regular season series against them. Rio Grande Valley and Tulsa together. Sounds like a NBDL classic finals to me. :)

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Will Conroy enjoys a triple double as, despite going into foul trouble, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers need one more game to win the 2010 NBDL Finals.
www.nba.com/dleague/news/game_one_100425.html

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If you thought the Game 3 of the Rio Grande Valley-Austin semis was a thriller, now add the last second shot from RGV's Craig Winder to win the Vipers' first ever NBDL title and seal their best ever season (www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2010/04/28/20100427_dleague_gamewinner_fix.nba/) to sweep the Tulsa 66ERS at home (www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100427/TULRGV/recap.html).

More good news comes for Vipers' Coach of the Year Chris Finch, Paul Mokeski, a former NBDL head coach, now an assistant with the Vipers under Finch, will join him and Nick Nurse as part of Team GB's coaching staff.

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More good news out in the NDBL at least temporarily. The Evil Laker Empire will cease its NBDL Chapter's operations for the following season (but it will return in 2011-12) for time to develop better "business opportunities" for a team that typically played four hours prior to the evil ones. It is still unclear what team the Evil Laker Empire will use for as its affiliate for next season. Maybe share a team with two other NBA franchises. No player from that team was called up to be temp emissaries this past season.

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Albuquerque Thunderbirds are now the New Mexico Thunderbirds, to broaden their marketing and fan base throughout the state. Also, Thunderbird Shane Edwards, a 23-year old rookie from the Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans, will try his hand with the Denver Nuggets Summer Pro League team (http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/06/28/d-leagues-shane-edwards-on-nuggets-vegas-summer-league-roster/). Good luck, Shane. Also, Shane's teammate, Chris Toppert, a New Mexico Lobo grad, is now eligible for Germany's Nationalbasketballmannschaft (http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/06/28/d-leagues-chad-toppert-earns-spot-on-german-national-team-roste/#cntnt) and will take on the ancestral family name Toepper for international play.

2010-11 NBDL Affiliations:

Austin Toros: San Antonio
Bakersfield Jam: LA Clippers, Evil Laker Empire (:evil:)
Dakota Wizards: Memphis, Washington
Erie BayHawks: Cleveland, Toronto
Ft. Wayne Mad Ants: Detroit, Indiana, Milwaukee
Idaho Stampede: Denver, Portland
Iowa Energy: Chicago, Phoenix
Maine Red Claws: Boston, Charlotte
New Mexico Thunderbirds: New Orleans, Orlando
Reno Bighorns: Golden St., Sacramento
Rio Grande Valley Vipers: Houston
Sioux Falls Skyforce: Miami, Minnesota
Springfield Armour: New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia
Texas Legends: Dallas
Tulsa 66ERS: Oklahoma City
Utah Flash: Atlanta, Utah

The new Texas Legends (www.nba.com/dleague/texas) franchise, formerly the Colorado 14ERS located in suburban Frisco, Texas, will not employ a hybrid affiliation despite being the only one for the Dallas Mavericks. Its special relationship is on account of Mavs GM Donnie Nelson being also the owner of the Legends.

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Additional NBDL notes

Former Mizzou basketball coach and Mike Krzyzewski protege, the intelligent Quin Snyder, leaves his head coaching job at the Austin Toros to become the Philadelphia 76ERS' Director of Player Personnel and one of Doug Collins assistants with Aaron McKie, Michael Curry, and Brian James.

From Oursportscentral.com:
The Austin Toros today announced that Head Coach Quin Snyder has accepted an assistant coach position with the Philadelphia 76ers under new Head Coach Doug Collins. Snyder is the second head coach of the Toros, replacing the late Dennis Johnson in 2007. He is the 25th coach in the NBA D-League's history to promote to a NBA coaching position.

'We are thrilled for Coach Snyder and wish him nothing but success and the best of luck with the 76ers' organization,' said Toros General Manager Dell Demps. 'Quin is a fantastic coach, great teacher, and a friend that I will personally miss.'

In three seasons with the Toros, Coach Snyder tallied a 94-56 (.627) record, placing him at the top of the D-League coaches' rankings for win/loss percentages during his tenure. The Toros advanced to the playoffs three consecutive seasons under Snyder, once to the finals in 2008, and twice to the semi-finals in 2009 and 2010. Snyder was honored with the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year Award during the 2008-09 season and the team claimed the Southwest Division Championship. Ten Toros' players have received 15 GATORADE Call-ups since 2007, three more than any other single team during that same time period.

Demps added, 'Quin did a fantastic job with the Austin Toros. There aren't enough words to describe how much he will be missed by our organization.'

Snyder joins Michael Curry, Brian James, and Aaron McKie as members of Collins' coaching staff for the 2010-11 season.

'I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join the staff that Coach Collins has assembled and hope to contribute in whatever way I am able,' said Snyder. 'Having spent the past week in Philadelphia, it is clear that this is an exciting time for the team and the organization in general and I am equally excited to have a role.'

On the past three years in Austin/San Antonio Snyder offered, 'I will always be grateful to RC Buford and to Coach Pop for their support and guidance. In my capacity as the head coach of the Toros, I was also welcomed into the Spurs family and this provided me endless opportunities to learn about the game. I enjoyed the actual experience of coaching my team as much as any point in my life. For that I will always be indebted to the players that I had a privilege of coaching - some for 3 years and some for 3 weeks. Lastly, the experience of working under Dell Demps, reinforced the value of trust and friendship in a profession that can challenge you in many ways. Dell gave me the day-to-day support that makes coaching fun.'

The Spurs are expected to announce the decision on a replacement later this summer.

After a very successful expansion season at 27-23, the Maine Red Claws' Austin Ainge returns as the Red Claws' head coach for next season.

The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today announced that Austin Ainge will return in 2010-11 as the team's head coach. The announcement was made by Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings.

Ainge, 28, led the Red Claws to a 27-23 record during the team's inaugural season, tying a league record for wins by an expansion team in their first season. Among the players mentored by Coach Ainge were five NBA contracted players who spent portions of the 2009-10 season with the Red Claws before being recalled to the NBA: Alexis Ajinca (Charlotte), J.R. Giddens (Boston/New York), Bill Walker (Boston/New York), Lester Hudson (Boston/Memphis), and Marcus Landry (Boston). The team also saw its first NBA signing with Red Claws guard Mario West earning a contract with the Atlanta Hawks.

'The NBA D-League is about developing not just players but coaches and front office staff as well,' said Jennings. 'Austin Ainge is a promising, young coach who made tremendous strides during his first season as a head coach. We are happy to have Austin return and are excited for our second season.'

'This organization in every way positions itself to be a winner, on and off the court, and I proud to be a part of it,' said Ainge. 'We have the best fans and a great community, and I am excited to return as head coach and build upon the successes we had in year one. We were proud of the trust the Celtics and the Bobcats showed in us to develop their players, and we hope that continues as we strive to improve and compete for a championship in 2010-11.'

The Red Claws will kick of their second season in late November. Season tickets are currently on sale and may be purchased by calling 207-210-6655 or online at www.maineredclaws.com. Season ticket packages begin as low as $240 for a 24-game package.

COACH AINGE TO LEAD 2010 RED CLAWS BASKETBALL CAMPS: Red Claws Head Coach Austin Ainge will lead the instruction at the Maine Red Claws basketball camps on July 26-30 at the Portland Exposition Building. Open to boys and girls ages 8-15, the camps will teach the fundamentals of the game in a fun and positive atmosphere. Campers will receive personal instruction from the Red Claws staff and guests and will receive a camp t-shirt, ticket to a Red Claws game and a camp-ending pizza party and awards ceremony. Spots are limited and may be reserved by calling 207-210-6655 or by downloading an application from the team's website, www.maineredclaws.com.

Idaho Stampede legend Randy Livingstone becomes the eight head coach in the Stampede's history at downtown Boise's Grove Hotel. With that, the New Orleans native also becomes the first NBDL player to become a head coach in the league. Randy Livinston represents what the NBA Development League is all about,' Stampede managing investor Bill Ilett said. 'He has been a champion as a player, an assistant coach with two quality franchises, and now a head coach with the NBA Development League. We are thrilled to have this true champion rejoining our staff.'

He was drafted out of Louisiana State by the Houston Rockets in 1996. He appeared in 64 games as a rookie. He played in the NBA, CBA, NBA D-League and overseas until retiring after leading the Stampede to the D-League championship in 2008. He finished his career as the Stampede's career leader in points scored (2,428), assists (1,517) and games played (163).

Livingston spent the 2008-09 season on the Stampede bench as an assistant coach on head coach Bryan Gates' staff. Last season, Livingston was an assistant coach with D-League expansion team, the Maine Red Claws.

'I'm ecstatic to be joining the Stampede as the new head coach and returing to Idaho, which I have always considered a second home,' Livingston said. 'After my experience with successful head coaches Bryan Gates and Austin Ainge, I am confident I will be able to continue the winning tradition of the Idaho Stampede.'

[Durbansandshark]

2010 NBA Development League Elite Mini-Camp - Jun 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Five Skyforce players from last season have been invited to attend the 2010 NBA Development League Elite Mini-Camp this weekend in Chantilly, Va. A total of 30 players will participate in drills and scrimmage in front of NBA scouts with the hopes of securing spots on summer league or training camp rosters. The Elite Mini-Camp is held in conjunction with the NBA D-League National Tryout at Hoop Magic on Saturday and Sunday.


2010 NBA D-League Elite Mini-Camp Roster

Player Last NBA D-League Team Pos. Ht. Wt. College

Leemire Goldwire (5'11''-G-84, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Charlotte) Sioux Falls PG 5-11 190 Charlotte
Lance Hurdle Idaho PG 6-1 185 Miami (FL)
Kevin Kruger Utah PG 6-2 185 UNLV
Kyle McAlarney Springfield PG 6-0 195 Notre Dame
Russell Robinson Maine PG 6-1 190 Kansas
Jonathan Wallace Rio Grande Valley PG 6-1 185 Georgetown

Antoine Agudio Albuquerque SG 6-3 185 Hofstra
Lewis Clinch Austin SG 6-3 195 Georgia Tech
Shy Ely Iowa SG 6-4 205 Evansville
Jackie Manuel Erie SG 6-5 205 North Carolina
Donell Taylor Idaho SG 6-6 215 UAB
Dar Tucker Los Angeles SG 6-4 205 DePaul

Ryan Ayers Fort Wayne SF 6-7 210 Notre Dame
Shane Edwards Albuquerque SF 6-7 220 Arkansas-Little Rock
Yaroslav Korolev Reno SF 6-8 225 Russia
Joe Krabbenhoft Sioux Falls SF 6-7 220 Wisconsin
Chris McCray Sioux Falls SF 6-5 190 Maryland
Jared Newson Sioux Falls SF 6-4 210 Tennessee-Martin
Mark Tyndale Iowa SF 6-5 210 Temple

Will Daniels Bakersfield PF 6-8 230 Rhode Island
Bennet Davis Utah PF 6-8 220 Northeastern
Darnell Lazare Maine PF 6-8 240 LSU
Julian Sensley Rio Grande Valley PF 6-9 225 Hawaii
Raymond Sykes Sioux Falls PF 6-9 225 Clemson
Curtis Withers Dakota PF 6-8 230 Charlotte

Marcus Campbell Springfield C 6-11 260 Mississippi State
Michael Fey Los Angeles C 7-0 270 UCLA
Mickell Gladness Rio Grande Valley C 6-11 230 Alabama A&M
Sean Sonderleiter Fort Wayne C 6-11 245 Iowa
Darian Townes Iowa C 6-10 250 Arkansas

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Vipers to remain at State Farm Arena - Jun 11, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The NBA Development League Champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers and the City of Hidalgo announced today in a press conference that the Vipers will play their home games at State Farm Arena through the 2012-13 season.

Additionally, tickets to the NBA pre-season game between the Houston Rockets and Orlando Magic at State Farm Arena on October 5 will go on sale to the public June 25. Select fans, including Vipers season ticket holders, will be able to purchase tickets in a pre-sale that begins on June 15.

'State Farm Arena has been home to very special moments in the history of Vipers basketball, from the franchise's first tip-off in 2007 to our championship victory in 2010. The Vipers look forward to future success in State Farm Arena and look forward to continuing our relationship with the city of Hidalgo,' Vipers President Brian Michael Cooper said.

The Vipers' all-time record at State Farm Arena is 51-26 (.662). In 2009-10, the Vipers averaged a league-high 4,712 fans per regular season home game in addition to a record crowd of 6,198 for the Vipers NBADL Finals clinching win over Tulsa on April 27. The only sporting event to outdraw that game was the NBA pre-season game between the Houston Rockets and Boston Celtics on October 7, 2009, when a crowd of 6,300 watched former-Viper Aaron Brooks lead the Rockets to victory over the Celtics.

Tickets for the Rockets-Magic game will be available through the Vipers, Ticketmaster, rgvipers.com, and the State Farm Arena box office while on sale to the general public. Tickets start at $49.

Courtesy of NBDL and Rio Grande Valley Vipers

More on Snyder's 76ERS's callup:
The 2009-2010 season was already a fantastic one for the D-League, with a record number of NBA call-ups, incredible success for individual players like Reggie Williams and Anthony Tolliver, and record attendance and viewership. It seems the 2010-2011 season will pick up right where this year left off, as there's already one notable D-League call-up for next season: According to David Aldridge of NBA.com, Austin Toros head coach has been hired by the Philadelphia 76ers to be the head of player development under Doug Collins.

Quin Snyder was one of the finest coaches in the D, and his mentoring of the Toros was a big reason why the organization was one of the most successful in the D-League. Now he'll have an opportunity to work with a new level of talent. No offense to Curtis Jerrells and Dwayne Jones, but they're not quite Jrue Holiday and Marreese Speights. Quin Snyder should also have a chance to work with whoever Philly selects with the No. 2 pick in this summer's draft.

Losing Quin Snyder to the big leagues is kind of a bummer for the D-League and the Toros, but this is what it's all about. Players and coaches alike can prove themselves on a level where the competition is solid but the pressure to produce immediately isn't as high, which facilitates development and growth. Quin Snyder grew as a coach and repaired his tarnished reputation while with the Toros, and while it would be great to see him running the show in Austin again, it's even better to see his time in the D earning him an NBA job.

Courtesy of http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com

Maccabi Haifa Invite-Only Florida Tryouts - Jun 22, 2010 (by Carl Berman)
An exciting opportunity is available to current D-League and recently graduated NCAA Division 1 players. Maccabi Haifa is a professional basketball team of the Israeli Basketball Super League, Israels Top Division. The team is owned by Triangle Financial Services LLC, an international sports and entertainment firm, Maccabi Haifa is consistently amongst the top teams in Israel, as the team played in the State Cup Finals and Championship Game last season, and has been ranked as high as 21st in Europe this season. In the Israeli Super League they finished 14-8 this season, tied for second place.

Maccabi Haifa is conducting invitation-only tryouts, for the top Collegiate and Pro Basketball players in the country, in South Florida in late July. This is a great opportunity for players to improve their basketball career overseas. The team has consistently signed several players from each tryout to play on both Maccabi Haifa and Hapoel Tivon (Triangles second division team).

This year only 30 to 35 players are going to be invited to their tryouts and various NBA D-League and NCAA Division 1 players are attending. Maccabi Haifa is playing the New Jersey Nets in their 1st Exhibition game on October 3rd, 2010 with the hope of joining the EuroChallenge this upcoming season. Players will tryout for the opportunity to sign with either team, which gives them a better chance of earning a pro contract. The past 2 years the tryout received media attention from NBC 6, Sun Sentinel, Miami Herald, Channel 7, and the Jewish Journal.

To give you an idea of the type and quality of player who may have success attending the tryouts, these are the American players who have played for each of the two teams this past season. Five Americans played for Maccabi Haifa. Davon Jefferson (USC), Jason Rich (Florida State), Rich Roby (Colorado), Ben Strong (Guilford) and Todd Golden (St. Marys, CA).

Hapoel Tivon, their second division team, finished in second place with a 17-9 record. Three Americans played on the team: Brian Asbury (6'7''-F, college: Miami (FL), Jeff Horowitz (Charleston/UNC-Wilmington) and Drew Housman. Asbury was selected for the team from last season's Florida tryout and he went on to be named the MVP of the Israeli Super Leagues Second Division.

The Invite-Only Tryout Camp will be held on July 20th & 21st at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL) from 6-10pm each day. Hotel Rooms have been reserved at the Homestead Studio Hotel at a discounted rate $55.99. Players are responsible for their hotel costs. However, the team will provide free transportation to & from tryouts for players who decide to stay at this hotel. Every player that is invited will be given an opportunity to make the jump to this professional level.

Adam Hurwitz can be contacted by players or player representatives @ (305)-933-8308 ext: 117 and/or at ahurwitz@trianglefs.com for additional information. This is a great opportunity for players looking to try to play for a solidly run European team. You will get a fair chance to show your ability. Good luck!

Carl Berman is a Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. Information on NetScouts Basketball and their scouting and international recruiting services can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

[Durbansandshark]

Latavious Williams Drafted in Second Round of 2010 NBA Draft - Jun 25, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Prep to D-League star Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) took one step further in his goal of playing in the NBA when the Miami HEAT selected him in the second round with the 48th overall selection of last night's 2010 NBA Draft. Williams, subsequently had his rights traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who happen to be the sole NBA affiliate of Williams' D-League team, the Tulsa 66ers. Williams, who was drafted 16th overall in the NBA D-League Draft last season, is the first ever high school player ever to be drafted from high school into the NBA Development League. The 21-year-old Williams averaged 11.3 points and 8.0 rebounds for the Tulsa 66ers in the D-League playoffs after putting 7.7 points and 7.7 boards during the regular season - showing he improved considerably over the course of the season. After failing to qualify academically at Memphis University, Williams took the unprecedented route of going from high school directly to the D-League. Brandon Jennings (6'0''-G-89) made headlines two seasons ago as he forewent a scholarship from Arizona to head to Italy to play professionally for Lottomatica Roma. Williams, stayed closer to home, and helped Tulsa reach the D-League Finals this past season, where they lost on a last second three-pointer against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

Williams is only the second player to ever be drafted out of the D-League in it's 10 year history, after former Idaho Stampede guard Mike Taylor (6'2''-G-86, college: Iowa St.) was drafted 55th overall by Portland in the 2008 NBA Draft. Taylor however, played a season in the D-League after playing a few seasons at Iowa State.
Almost an afterthought at the beginning of the season, Williams improved gradually and steadily over the course of 47 regular season games and then seven play-off games, even though he was bounced between starting and coming off he bench due to the yo-yoing of OKC players B.J. Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) and D.J. White (6'9''-F-86, college: Indiana) back and forth between Tulsa and OKC during the NBA and D-League playoffs.
Now back with the organization who knows him best, Williams will likely spend next season once again in Tulsa, where an All-Star caliber season should not be out of the question. From there it will be a matter of his continued dedication, improvement and an open opportunity which will determine if he has a place in the NBA.

Pair of former NBA D-Leaguers waived by Chicago Bulls - Jul 1, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
On the eve of arguably the biggest day in the history of NBA free-agency, you can add two more less heralded names to the list. Chicago Bulls forwards Chris Richard (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Florida) and Robert Kurz (6'9''-F-85, college: Notre Dame) were waived on Wednesday night, clearing even more roster space and cap-room to maneuver and work out deals that would entice LeBron James, Chris Bosh or Dwayne Wade to the Windy City. Richard, formerly of the Tulsa 66ers and Kurz, of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants are now on the market and will have to do their best to earn Summer League or training camp invites as many teams have already begun finalizing players of interest for the Orlando and Las Vegas leagues. Richard, a 6-9 forward / center who teamed with Joakim Noah on Floridas 2006 and 2007 NCAA Championship teams, appeared in 18 games with the Bulls last season, averaging 2.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Kurz, the sweet-shooting big man from Notre Dame who contributed in his rookie season in the NBA with Golden State (2008-09), was signed at the end of the 2009-10 NBA regular season, but did not appear in any games for the Bulls. Kurz was a 2010 D-League All-Star after averaging 17.4 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 43.8% from three in 38 games for the Mad Ants last season. In 38 D-League games with Sioux Falls and Tulsa over three-seasons, Richard holds career averages of 10.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 52.7% from the field.

Another coach is going to another NBA team's coaching staff. Could this be the start of Vitaly Potapenko possibly coaching the Ukraine in international basketball soon?

Mad Ants' assistant to join Pacers' staff - Jul 2, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Vitaly Potapenko (6'10''-C/F-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wright St.), who spent last season as an assistant coach with the Mad Ants under Joey Meyer, was named an assistant with the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.

"We are very pleased Vitaly is going to be part of our staff," Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said in a Pacers statement. He was an extremely hard worker as a player and did a great job in Fort Wayne for our NBADL affiliate last year. Vitaly Potapenko, 35, played in the NBA from 1996 to 2007 in Cleveland, Boston, Seattle and Sacramento before playing in Spain in 2007-08.

In other Mad Ants news, seven members of last seasons team will participate in NBA summer leagues, beginning Monday. Guard Oliver Lafayette, who finished the most recent NBA season with the Boston Celtics, will report to the Orlando Summer League, which runs from Monday through July 9.

Six others will play in the Las Vegas Summer League that takes place July 9 to 18: Rob Kurz, Chicago Bulls; Ryan Ayers, Los Angeles Clippers; Jared Reiner, Detroit Pistons; Ron Howard, New York Knicks; Sean Sonderleiter, New Orleans Hornets; and Chris Hunter, who played last season with the Golden State Warriors.

Kurz, the former Notre Dame standout, was waived by the Bulls. He did not make an appearance with the Bulls after signing with them April 9, but he will still play for the franchises team in Las Vegas.

Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net

In the first three years of the Utah Flash's existence, Brad Jones has been there and his 84-66 regular season record and 28-22 playoff record with a first-round exit this season. But the Flash decided not to extend his contract and therefore will go another direction without the ex-Jazz scout and nephew of Jerry Sloan. Jazz GM Kevin O'Conner notes that this coaching change will not impact their affiliation with the Flash, which it shares with the Atlanta Hawks.

[Durbansandshark]

Forty seven players with NBA D-League experience featured on summer league rosters in Orlando - Jul 5, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Forty seven players with NBA Development League experience highlight the rosters of the eight teams playing in the 2010 AirTran Airways Pro Summer League, tipping off in Orlando this afternoon. The event features 20 games played over five days at the RDV Sportsplex in Orlando.

The Utah Jazz' summer league roster features 10 players with NBA D-League experience, the most of any NBA team playing in Orlando, while the Orlando Magic has eight former NBA D-Leaguers on their summer league squad. Each of the other five NBA teams playing in Orlando has at least one player with NBA D-League experience on their summer league team.

Bobcats guard Antonio Anderson, a 2010 NBA D-League champion with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, headlines the list of players with NBA D-League experience. Anderson, who earned a GATORADE Call-Up to the Oklahoma City Thunder during the season averaged 16.2 points, 6.1 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 40 games for the Vipers during the regular season and 17.9 points, 7.1 assists and 6.0 rebounds in the 2010 NBA D-League postseason.

Joining Anderson in Orlando are two other players who competed in the 2010 NBA D-League Finals: Oklahoma City forwards Latavious Williams, who became the second-ever NBA D-League player to be drafted when he was selected in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft, and his Tulsa 66ers teammate Marcus Lewis.

Of the 47 players with NBA D-League experience competing in Orlando, 10 earned GATORADE Call-Ups to the NBA during their NBA D-League career, including Boston Celtics guard Oliver Lafayette (6'2''-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Houston), who was called-up from the Fort Wayne Mad Ants and was a member of the Celtics squad competing in the 2010 NBA Finals. Of the Jazz' 10 former NBA D-Leaguers on the team's summer league roster, three players have earned GATORADE Call-Ups, including Sundiana Gaines and Othyus Jeffers, who were called-up by the Jazz during the 2009-10 season.

A number of coaches with NBA D-League experience will also be on the benches in Orland, including head coaches Austin Ainge (Maine Red Claws) and Nate Tibbetts (Tulsa 66ers) who will work with the Celtics and Thunder, respectively. Former Austin Toros head coach Quin Snyder will begin his tenure as a Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach in Orlando this week.

The following is a breakdown of players with NBA D-League experience on 2010 AirTran Airways Pro Summer League rosters.

Boston Celtics-Oliver Lafayette*

Charlotte Bobcats-Alexis Ajinca, Alade Aminu*, Antonio Anderson*, Brandon Bowman, Nathan Jawai, Pape Sow, P.J. Tucker

Indiana Pacers-Richard Hendrix, Marcus Landry, James Mays, Josh McRoberts, Russell Robinson, Darryl Watkins, Marcus Williams*

New Jersey Nets-Connor Atchley, Brandon Heath, James Peters, Gabe Pruitt, Garret Siler, Cezary Trybanski

Oklahoma City Thunder-Marcus Lewis, Byron Mullens, Mustafa Shakur*, Kyle Weaver, DJ White, Latavious Williams

Orlando Magic-Joe Crawford*, Paul Davis, Patrick Ewing, Jr., Trey Gilder, Yaroslav Korolev, Sean Singletary, Curtis Stinson, Donell Taylor

Philadelphia 76ers-Ndudi Ebi, Cedric Simmons

Utah Jazz-James Augustine, Rod Benson, Jermareo Davidson*, Sundiata Gaines*, Thomas Gardner, Paul Harris, Othyus Jeffers*, Kosta Koufos, Demetris Nichols*, Darian Townes

* indicates earned a GATORADE Call-Up

Warriors add Bighorns as affiliate - Jul 7, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Reno Bighorns will have a new parent club this season, and it's an NBA team close to home. The Golden State Warriors will join the Sacramento Kings as the two parent clubs of Reno's NBA Development League team. The Warriors replace the Orlando Magic.

The Bighorns, coming off their first playoff appearance in franchise history, will retain the Kings as an affiliate for the third straight season. The Kings and Warriors were two of the youngest and worst teams in the NBA last year.

Sacramento's 25-57 record was the third-worst in the NBA; Golden State's 26-56 mark was tied for the fourth-worst. The Kings selected two centers in last month's NBA draft, taking Kentucky's DeMarcus Cousins with the fifth pick and Marshall's Hassan Whiteside in the second round. Cousins figures to be a key cog for Sacramento this season, but the talented and raw Whiteside will likely spend some time with the Bighorns.

Golden State selected Baylor power forward Ekpe Udoh with the sixth pick in the draft. The lone player in Bighorns franchise history to be sent to Reno on assignment was Kings guard Donte Greene, who played five games for the team in the 2008-09 season.

Golden State, meanwhile, leaned heavily on the D-League. The Warriors made five callups from the D-League last season, a record for an NBA team. The Bighorns season begins in late November.

Courtesy of www.rgj.com

NBA D-League Select Team Falls in First Summer League Game to Phoenix - Jul 13, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
The NBA D-League Select Team, comprised of a selection of free-agents who spent last season in the D-League, opened up their schedule at the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas yesterday evening. Facing off against a Phoenix Suns summer league squad which featured former D-League assignees Taylor Griffin and Earl Clark (6'9''-F-88, college: Louisville), the Select Team fell 96-88.
Leading by double digits with just over five minutes to go in the third quarter, the D-Leaguers were not able to control a revived Suns offense, which went on to outscore the Select squad 47-33 in the last two quarters. For Phoenix, second year forward Earl Clark led the way with a game high 18 points while 2010 second-round draft pick Gani Lawal (6'9''-F-88) tallied a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, though he did commit a game high seven turnovers and 10 personal fouls. The D-League Select squad was led by former Reno Bighorn and Maine Red Claw point guard Russell Robinson (6'1''-G-86) who scored a team high 17 points in just 15 minutes of action, with nine coming from the free-throw line. Dakota Wizards forward Curtis Withers (6'8''-F-84, college: Charlotte) followed closely with 16 points and seven rebounds, while sharp-shooter Mike Gansey came off the bench to contribute 15 points, including three of three from behind the arc.
SUNS: Earl Clark (18pt+5rb), Gani Lawal (15pt+11rb+7to), Scottie Reynolds (16pt), Matt Janning (15pt+7rb)
D-LEAGUE: Russell Robinson (17pt), Curtis Withers (16pt+7rb), Mike Gansey (15pt), Larry Owens (12pt+7rb)

[Durbansandshark]

Jam alumni everywhere in NBA Summer League - Jul 15, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Bakersfield Jam is proud to report that 12 former team members will be suiting up for NBA teams in the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, Nevada.

'We're proud to have so many former Jam players participating in the Las Vegas Summer League,' said Jam Head Coach Will Voigt (agency: Warren Sports International ). 'It's a great testament to the improvement they made while in Bakersfield, as well as their continued dedication to making an NBA roster.'

The twenty one NBA teams participating in the summer league - which began on Friday, July 9 at University of Nevada-Las Vegas' Thomas and Mack Center - include several standouts from the 2009-2010 Bakersfield Jam. Brian Butch started two games for the Denver Nuggets before being sidelined by a knee injury, Jeremy Wise is expected to play for the Golden State Warriors pending medical clearance, and Alade Aminu scored 14 points to go with three rebounds, two steals and a block in his debut for the Atlanta Hawks.


The complete list of former Jam players in the 2010 NBA Las Vegas Summer League is as follows:

Player NBA Team

Alade Aminu* - Atlanta Hawks

Richard Hendrix - Atlanta Hawks

Derrick Byars - Chicago Bulls

Amara Sy* - Dallas Mavericks

Brian Butch* - Denver Nuggets

Jeremy Wise* - Golden State Warriors

Blake Ahearn - Houston Rockets

Trey Johnson* - Los Angeles Clippers

DeMarcus Nelson - Milwaukee Bucks

Patrick O'Bryant - Minnesota Timberwolves

Jared Newson - D-League Select

Michael Cuffee - San Antonio Spurs

* Indicates player whose NBA D-League rights belong to Bakersfield Jam

Coach Treloar signs new deal with BayHawks - Jul 24, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Erie BayHawks have signed head coach John Treloar (agency: Warren Sports International ) to a new two-year contract carrying him through the 2011-12 season.

'We're thrilled to have John committed to continuing what we started in our first two seasons - and that's putting a competitive team on the floor and developing NBA-caliber talent as he and Coach McDonald have accomplished,' said BayHawks majority owner Steve Demetriou.

'John is a first-class person who is highly respected throughout the D-League and the NBA. He's a proven winner and is committed to our goal of competing every year for a D-League championship,' Demetriou added.

'I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of a first-class organization, one that is committed to providing the fans in Erie with great entertainment value and the highest level of basketball outside of the NBA,' said Treloar.

'I recall when I first met Steve that he wanted someone who wouldn't just take the job and begin looking for his next job. I'm committed to the long-term vision of this organization and feel that with the business staff we have, the support of a dedicated ownership group, and the great fans we have, we are on the road to achieving great things,' he added.

Named as the team's first head coach in June, 2008, Treloar led the BayHawks to an overall record of 48-52, including a 27-23 mark and playoff berth in the inaugural season, followed by a 21-29 finish last year.

Prior to joining the BayHawks Treloar was an assistant coach at Louisiana State University. He also served on the coaching staff of Bob Knight at Indiana University and coached in the Continental Basketball Association and internationally in Germany and Venezuela.

Treloar has coached numerous players who have gone on to have successful NBA careers including Glen Davis, Brandon Bass, Tyrus Thomas, Marcus Thornton, Anthony Randolph, Garret Temple, Kevin Ollie, and others.

Originally from Clinton, Mississippi, Treloar earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Belhaven College (1978) and a master's degree in the area of behavioral studies from the University of Alabama (1982). He and his wife Debra reside in Millcreek with their two children, Taylor and Trey.

Courtesy of www.allvoices.com

NBA D-League Assignee Taylor Griffin Waived by Phoenix Suns - Jul 27, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Taylor Griffin (6'7''-F-86, college: Oklahoma), the older brother of 2009 NBA Draft number one selection Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma), was waived yesterday after an unproductive rookie season in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns.
The 6-7, 238 pound Griffin, appeared in only eight NBA games for Phoenix, scoring 10 total points in 32 minutes after being taken in the second round (49th overall) of the same draft as Blake. A four-year player out of Oklahoma, the elder Griffin started his final season for the Sooners, which was coincidently Blake's freshman and only season on campus. In 36 games during the 08-09 NCAA season, he averaged 9.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 53.6% from the field. Last season also saw Griffin assigned the Iowa Energy, the Suns' NBA D-League affiliate. In 12 regular season games he averaged 9.6 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting 43.5% from the field and going 4-17 from behind the arc.
Griffin's final audition for a second season in Phoenix came during the NBA Summer League in Vegas. Unfortunately, his production and output were far from sufficient. Though he started all five games in Las Vegas, his playing time decreased over the course of the week and he ended up with averages of 3.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists in nearly 21 minutes per contest while shooting 23.3% from the field.

[Durbansandshark]

Some additional NBDL news that have transpired for the last couple of months since the last time I posted here.

Bakersfield Jam Announce 2010-11 Free Agent Tryout Camps - Aug 1, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Re-vamped and ready for the upcoming season, the Bakersfield Jam have announced two free agent tryout camps for players with a dream on playing in the NBA. Now the only NBA D-League team in California, the Jam will be the NBA affiliates for both the NBA Champion Los Angeles Lakers as well as the Los Angeles Clippers.

Head Coach Will Voigt (agency: Warren Sports International ) is looking for players who not only have the talent to play in the D-League, but also the work ethic, attitude, determination and mind-set to learn the NBA way and help the Jam reach the playoffs in his second season in charge.

The first open Tryout will be held in the Bakersfield Area on August 28 & 29, 2010 at the Bakersfield Jam Events Center (1400 Norris Road, Bakersfield, CA). Registration begins at 7:30am on the 28th with camp beginning promptly at 9am. The cost for the Bakersfield camp will be $150 if registered prior to August 20, or $200 after or on the day of the camp.
The second camp will be in the Los Angeles area on September 11 & 12, 2010 at the HAX (Hangar Athletic Xchange / 3203 Jack Northrop Avenue, Hawthorne, CA). The cost for the Los Angeles camp will be $150 if registered prior to September 3, or $200 after or on the day of the camp.

The Bakersfield Jam joined the NBA D-league in 2006 and have played in the Western division for the last four seasons, finishing third in 2009. Former Jam players include ex-NBA players Blake Ahearn (6'2''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri St.), Mateen Cleaves (6'2''-G-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Michigan St.), John Edwards (7'0''-C-81, college: Kent St.), Reece Gaines (6'6''-G-81, college: Louisville), Robert Swift (7'0''-F/C-85), Patrick O'Bryant (7'0''-C-86, college: Bradley) and Jeff Trepagnier (6'4''-G-79, college: USC) to name a few. Jeremy Wise (6'3''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi), who left Southern Mississippi early to play in the D-League, is possibly the next Jam alum to make the NBA as he had a strong season last season in the D-League and has earned a camp invite with the Golden State Warriors after playing with their entry at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

For more information on the 2010-11 Open Tryouts including applications and payment procedures as well as the Bakersfield Jam organization, please visit their website at www.bakersfieldjam.com

Ex-D-Leaguers Poised to Play Important Roles at Eurobasket 2011 Qualifying - Aug 3, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Yesterday began the quest of 15 nations as they try to advance and qualify for five available spots for the 2011 European Championships (Eurobasket 2011) in Lithuania next summer. Here we will look at the NBA D-League alum that, either through birth or nationalization, will be playing in these qualifying rounds with the hope of moving their country closer to Lithuania.

Bulgaria
Earl Calloway (6'3''-G-83, college: Indiana) (Ft. Wayne Mad Ants, 07-08): 6-3 point guard played 27 minutes in 67-59 victory over Portugal yesterday. A Georgia native, Calloway finished his collegiate career at Indiana after beginning at New Mexico State. Solid as a Hoosier, his breakout performance came in the D-League where he was fourth in the league in scoring (19.0ppg) and assists (5.8apg) for the Mad Ants. The rest of his career has seen Calloway progressing up the European league hierarchy. First in Croatia with perennial Adriatic League powers Cibona and then last season in the ACB of Spain with Sevilla. A do-everything type of guard, Calloway is not a lights out scorer at the European level, but can run a team as well as most and has excellent court-vision and a reliable jump-shot.

Georgia
Taurean Green (6'0''-G-85, college: Florida) (Colorado 14ers, 07-08): Starting point guard for Floridas back-to-back NCAA champion squads, Green scored nine points in 28 minutes as Georgia upset Poland. Was drafted #52 in the 2007 NBA Draft, but saw limited action in rookie season split between Denver in the NBA and Colorado of the D-League. Least season Green averaged a career high 15.1 points while playing for AEK Athens in Greece, earning him All-Star status. Recently granted a Georgian passport, Green is not the main focus of the national team, with NBA veteran Zaza Pachulia and forward Viktor Sanikidze leading the way. However, his ability to penetrate and dish or score will be relied upon, especially if he can set up sweet-shooting big Nikoloz Tskitishvili for three.

Great Britain
Pops Mensah-Bonsu (6'9''-F-83, college: George Washington) (Ft. Worth Flyers, 06-07 / Austin Toros, 08-09): Probably the former D-Leaguer with the greatest influence on his teams chances of qualifying, the super-charged Mensah-Bonsu is in his third year of British National Team duty. Born in London, his game was refined at George Washington University and then the D-League where he was the 2007 All-Star Game MVP while with Ft. Worth. The 6-9, 240 pound power forward holds NBA career averages of 3.3 points and 3.1 rebounds over three seasons split between Dallas, San Antonio, Toronto and Houston. In addition to his dominating the D-League (34 games: 18.4ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.6bpg, 57.5% FGP), Pops has played in Europe for Benetton Treviso (Italy), DKV Joventut Badalona (Spain) and most recently CSKA Moscow (Russia). In Britains opening game victory over Hungary, Pops was brilliant on the boards, collecting a game high 18 to go along with 14 points on 6-9 shooting from the field.

Montenegro
Omar Cook (6'1''-G-82, college: St.John's) (Fayetteville Patriots, 01-02, 02-03, 03-04, 04-05): 153 career D-League games; third all-time in assists (1135), second in steals (286), 10th in minutes played (4862). The New York born and bred Cook, still only 28, has been at this a long time. After leaving the D-League (and NBA) for good after the 04-05 season, Cook has established himself as one of the true floor-generals of elite European basketball. After dominating in Belgium, Russia and Serbia, Cook spent the last two seasons with Spanish powerhouse Unicaja Malaga, where he finished in the top-two in assists in Euroleague play both years. Joining the Montenegrin National Team in 2008, he helped them advance from Division B in 2009 and now, competing for a place in Eurobasket 20111, dished out six assists to go along with 11 points as the crushed Latvia 96-66 in their opening contest. While he may not have lived up to the hype coming out of High School and St. Johns in terms of NBA stardom, Cook has had and will continue to have a fine career playing in, and staring in some of the top competitions Europe has to offer. Teamed with possibly the best front-line in the competition; all-Europe bog man Nikola Pekovic, former Knicks draft pick Slavko Vranes and ex-NBA center Pedrag Drobnjak, Montenegro may shock traditional powers as they roll forward in their continued development.

Poland
Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) (Anaheim Arsenal, 07-08): Though his stay in the D-League (5 games: 9.8ppg, 6.8rpg) was brief, Gortat has become one of the more prominent international big men over the last two seasons. Through a heated contract negation after the 2008-09 season, which essentially made him an extremely highly paid backup to Dwight Howard, to his emerged presence as arguably the most important player on Polands National Team, Gortat has ascended the basketball world. On his countrys home soil at Eurobasket 2009, Gortat had a strong performance, averaging 14.3 points, 10.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks though Poland struggled to a disappointing 10th place finish. In their opening round upset loss to Georgia, the Orlando Magic big man was limited to 10 points and 3 rebounds in 28 minutes.

[Durbansandshark]

Ticknor to return as Assistant Coach in 2010-11 - Aug 4, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced today that assistant coach Duane Ticknor will return for the 2010-11 season. In his first season as an assistant coach he helped lead the team to a regular season record of 32-18 and a berth in the 2010 NBA Development League Playoffs.

'Having Coach Ticknor on the bench last season was extremely beneficial for a first-year head coach,' said head coach Tony Fritz. 'He helped me grow as a head coach and I look forward to gaining even more knowledge this upcoming season.'

Before joining the Skyforce, Ticknor served as head coach of the Dakota Wizards and guided them to the postseason in each of his two seasons at the helm. His 2007-08 squad finished 29-21 to win the Central Division crown and in 2008-09 the Wizards defeated the Central Division champion Iowa Energy in the first round of the playoffs before falling to the Utah Flash in the league semifinals.

Ticknor spent time in the CBA as head coach of the Gary Steelheads (2002-05) and as an assistant coach of the Rapid City Thrillers (1989-92). The Vermillion, S.D. native was also the head coach for three IBA teams: Black Hills Posse (1995-99), Dakota Wizards (1999-00) and Siouxland Bombers (2000-01). The four-time Coach of the Year ('96, '97, '98, '00) advanced to the IBA Finals three times and won the championship in 1997.

In addition to his professional experience, Ticknor also coached at the collegiate level. He compiled a regular season record of 139-66 in six seasons as head men's basketball coach at National American University in Rapid City, S.D. He was inducted into the Rapid City Sports Hall of Fame in 1989 after his team advanced to the national tournament four times and won back-to-back national championships in 1987 and 1988.

Austin Toros announce move to Cedar Park Center - Aug 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Austin Toros and Cedar Park Center today announced the NBA D-League team will bring professional basketball to the state-of-the-art arena for the 2010-11 season. The Toros, the San Antonio Spurs NBA Development League affiliate, will tip-off its 24-game home schedule at the Cedar Park Center in November.

'We are really looking forward to continuing to present NBA caliber competition to Austin Toros fans at the new Cedar Park Center,' said Rick Pych Spurs Sports and Entertainment President of Business Operations. 'The move will allow us to improve the fan experience beyond what we have been able to offer in past years. We are excited about the future, but also grateful to the City of Austin and staff at the Austin Convention Center for the great partnership over the last five years that allowed us to bring the NBA Development League to the greater Austin community.'

Cedar Park Center is located at the intersection of New Hope Drive and Toll Road 183A. The multiuse facility has a capacity of 4,672 seats for basketball with ample parking adjacent to the arena, and is also home to the American Hockey League's (AHL) Texas Stars. The Toros played the arena's first professional basketball games there last February during the 2009-10 season.

'Cedar Park Center is delighted to welcome the Austin Toros to this region's premier sports and entertainment venue,' said Rick McLaughlin, General Manager of Cedar Park Center. 'We enjoyed working with the Austin Toros' organization last season when we hosted their two 'Showdown at Cedar Park' games against the Reno Bighorns and are extremely pleased that they have chosen Cedar Park Center to be their new home.'

Cedar Park Mayor Bob Lemon added, 'Since the Texas Stars started playing in Cedar Park I have renewed my love of ice hockey and became a loyal fan, but basketball has always been my favorite sport. We look forward to being season tickets holders this coming year at Cedar Park Center. Please join us in welcoming the Toros to the great city of Cedar Park.'

Ticket prices at Cedar Park Center will be comparable to those at the Austin Convention Center, starting at just $5. Fans should visit austintoros.com to take advantage of special discount offers packaged into the 'Twelve Weeks of Toros'. Each of the twelve weeks will include a unique and different ticket offer for fans to choose from.
'Starting this November with the 2010-11 season, the Toros will showcase NBA stars of the future in a state-of-the-art arena,' said Peter Lubell Toros Chief Operating Officer. 'The opportunity to offer our fans a more balanced schedule that includes more weekend games coupled with the convenience and amenities of Cedar Park Center make this a win for everyone.'

The Toros debuted in 2005, playing five seasons at the Austin Convention Center. The San Antonio Spurs purchased and began operating the Toros in June, 2007. Season and group tickets are available now. Call the Toros office today at (512) 236-8333.

Stampede add two to coaching staff - Aug 12, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Idaho Stampede announced today that Joel Abelson and Greg Minor have been added to the team's coaching staff for the 2010-11 season.

'We are very fortunate to have two high caliber coaches join our staff,' said Stampede Head Coach Randy Livingston (agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM) ). 'Their experience and basketball knowledge will be very beneficial to our program. Joel is a tireless worker who has great experience as well as great player development skills. Greg is a strong coach with a wealth of playing experience and a unique ability to relate to young players. I am confident they will connect very well with our players and make this years Stampede team the best ever.'

Abelson returns to Boise as the new associate head coach after serving as the assistant coach of the Stampede under Bob MacKinnon last season and Bryan Gates during the 2008-09 season. Before joining the Stampede, he worked under head coach Joey Meyer with the Tulsa 66ers as an assistant coach. The University of Michigan graduate worked for the Charlotte Bobcats basketball operations in 2007 and at Abunassar Impact Basketball in Las Vegas, training NBA stars such as Baron Davis, Jermaine O'Neal, Chauncey Billups, and Paul Pierce. He spent this past summer training Daniel Orton, Hassan Whiteside and Yancy Gates, as well as coaching during the 2010 NBA Development League Pre-Draft Camp.

This will be Greg Minor 's first season with the Stampede as an assistant coach and third overall in the NBA D-League. Minor spent the 2008-09 season with the Tulsa 66ers and last season as an assistant coach with the Bakersfield Jam. The former NBA player was selected by the Los Angeles Clippers in the 1994 NBA draft and was traded to the Indiana Pacers later that summer. He was then released by the Pacers but signed as a free agent with the Boston Celtics where he played for five years. Minor competed in the 1996 NBA Slam Dunk Contest where he finished third overall.

Both coaches will reside in Boise.

Bighorns officially name Eric Musselman as head coach - Aug 13, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Reno Bighorns on Thursday officially announced former NBA head coach Eric Musselman as their new head coach.

The Bighorns, the NBA Development League affiliate of the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings, said Musselman, 45, comes to Reno with more than two decades of experience in professional basketball, including three seasons as head coach for the Warriors and Kings.

As we position ourselves to bring an NBA D-League championship to Reno and provide our fans with a fun, electrifying product , Eric was the perfect choice to take this organization to the next level, Stuart Katzoff, Bighorns president and managing partner, said in a released statement. Hes a great fit for this teamboth on the floor and in this community. This is a very exciting day for us.

In addition to two stints as a head coach in the NBA, Musselman was an assistant in the league for several teams, coaching under legendary names including Chuck Daly, Mike Fratello and Doc Rivers. He boasts experience coaching internationally, as well, over the last two decades.

Musselman comes to the NBA D-League for the first time having already established himself as one of the most celebrated coaches in minor league basketball history. He won 208 games in the CBA, carrying a .671 winning percentage, the second best mark in the leagues history. Musselman was a five-time CBA All-Star coach, and he won six division titles, earning a postseason berth in every season with the Rapid City Thrillers. At 28 years of age, he became the youngest coach in professional basketball history to reach 100 wins, and his two-year stint in the USBL concluded with back-to-back league titles and a composite 54-3 record.

His father, the late Bill Musselman, was a prominent head coach in the NBA, ABA, CBA, WBA and collegiately. The elder Musselman is the only person to have ever served as a head coach in four professional basketball leagues. He held NBA head coaching posts in Cleveland and Minnesota, and among his stops on the minor league circuit was one season with the Reno Bighorns of the Western Basketball Association. In the 1978-79 season, Musselman led the Bighorns to the WBA championship series, where they fell 4-to-3 in seven games.

Musselman served as color commentator for Comcast and Versus last season, calling West Coast Conference and NBA D- League games, respectively. He is still active as Fox Sports Radios NBA analyst, appearing weekly on several nationally-broadcast FSR programs.

Musselman and the Bighorns begin their third season on Nov. 20 at home against the Utah Flash.

Reno Bighorns 2010-11 full- and partial-season tickets are available now by calling the Bighorns front office at (775) 284-2NBA, and additional information is available at RenoBighorns.com.

Courtesy of www.rgj.com

[Durbansandshark]

Malik Hairston's Status with Montepaschi Siena Up in the Air - Aug 30, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)

According to the official website of Montepaschi Siena (www.menssanabasket.it), former San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and Austin Toros (NBA D-League) guard Malik Hairston (6'6''-G-87, college: Oregon) has a disc problem in his back which will currently prevent him from preparing for the start of the Serie A season. Originally signed in early August to a two-year contract, the club will look to find an alternative way to keep Hairston on board as an injury provision in the original deal negates the existing contract. Hairston has expressed an interest and willingness to rehab in Siena and the club will try to accommodate as best as possible. Hairston, a 6-6 guard out of Oregon, was drafted in the second round (48th overall) by the Phoenix Suns in the 2008 NBA Draft but acquired by the San Antonio Spurs where he spent the last two seasons. The majority of Hairstons production had been in the D-League with Austin where in 45 career games over two seasons he averaged 24.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.0 blocks while shooting 50.8% from the field. Comparatively, in limited action with the Spurs over 62 career games he has averaged 2.4 points and 1.2 rebounds while shooting 51.2% from the field. Expected to help fill the shoes left by the departure of star guard Romain Sato (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Xavier) to Panathinaikos Athens, Hairston seems to have the trust and support of management as they try to work out a way to keep the very talented Hairston in Siena to help them later on this season.

The first set of players for the new Texas Legends (formerly the Colorado 14ERS) thanks to the 2010 NBDL expansion draft:

The NBA Development League's new team, the Texas Legends, took the first step towards formulating their roster for the upcoming 2010-11 season with the completion of the 2010 NBA D-League Expansion Draft yesterday. The Legends selected 10 players from a 14-player pool compromised of the 'Returning Player List' of the 2009-10 Los Angeles D-Fenders, which will be on hiatus during the 2010-11 NBA D-League season.

'The Expansion Draft gave the Legends an opportunity to begin crafting their 2010-11 roster,' said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. 'It affords Texas the opportunity to draft the rights to returning players with valuable NBA D-League experience.'

The Legends were provided with a list of the 14 players last week, and submitted a written copy of their selections to the NBA D-League yesterday.

The complete list of players the Legends selected in the Expansion Draft is below.
Name Pos. Hgt. Weight Birthdate School/Country

Keith Clark (6'9''-F-87, college: Oklahoma) F 6-8 245 7/16/1987 Oklahoma
Crawford Joe (6'5''-G-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Kentucky) G 6-5 210 6/17/1986 Kentucky
Michael Fey (7'0''-F/C-83, college: UCLA) F/C 7-0 270 5/29/1983 UCLA
Ryan Forehan-Kelly (6'6''-F/G-80, college: California) G/F 6-6 195 1/14/1980 California
Gabriel Hughes (7'0''-F/C-80, college: California) C 7-0 240 12/16/1980 California
James Peters (6'9''-F-81, college: UNLV) F 6-8 215 5/24/1981 Nevada -Las Vegas
Frank Robinson (6'4''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) G 6-4 220 6/1/1984 Cal-State Fullerton
Diamon Simpson (6'7''-F-87, college: St.Mary's, CA) F 6-7 230 9/8/1987 St. Mary's (CA)
Dar Tucker (6'4''-F-88, college: De Paul) G 6-4 205 4/11/1988 DePaul
James Wright (6'2''-G-81, agency: Impact Sports Basketball, college: Colorado) G 6-1 185 6/26/1981 Colorado

Q&A with Skyforce coach Tony Fritz - Sep 4, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Although greatly overshadowed by the kickoff of the football season, there are some high-level hoops going on in early September in the form of the FIBA World Championships in Turkey.

Skyforce coach Tony Fritz , for one, is keeping a close eye on things with 18 former NBA D-League players participating. He did, however, take time away from the coverage to answer some questions about the world hoops scene from the Argus Leader:

Question: One of the 18 participants is former Skyforce forward Kirk Penney. He's putting up huge numbers for New Zealand. What's your reaction to that?

Answer: I'm not surprised. He's a consummate pro. He just knows how to play and he can shoot the ball with anyone in the world. He's a heck of a player. I hope we can get him back, but I don't know.

Q: Team USA has turned over entirely since winning Olympic gold in 2008. Why is that when other countries get longer commitments from their top stars?
a: Maybe because we're such a big country. We have a lot of people that play basketball and play other sports. In Lithuania, that's all they do - it's big. I don't know why it's so hard to get them to play so long, but I think it's headed in the right direction and the new system is working. I just think it's a learning process for us.

Q: Skyforce forward Joe Krabbenhoft has signed a contract in Spain. Is this a good move for his development?

a: It is. It's a great league over there. Look at their national team - they have eight or nine guys who have been drafted. That's a great league and it's going to help Joe in having some more experience in a different style of basketball. Going from Wisconsin to the pro game to Korea where it's really fast and now you go to Spain where it's really tough. They play real physical and that's going to bode well for him. And just the life and the basketball experience he's getting - you can't duplicate.

Q: Krabbenhoft mentioned that a possible NBA lockout in 2011-12 factored into his decision. Does that mean this could be a down year for the D-League with so many guys looking to get in overseas?

a: I don't think so. I think guys will come to the D-League this year hoping to get seen because they're going to be up for jobs for next year. There aren't a lot of jobs out there right now overseas. I've been talking to a lot of agents and some former players of ours and it's slim pickings. If you want a job in Europe, it's not out there. You've got to really get in the right situation. I think that bodes well for our league and the direction we're headed.

Courtesy of www.argusleader.com

Utah Flash name Kevin Young as Head Coach - Sep 8, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Utah Flash introduced Kevin Young as its new head coach for the 2010-11 season. Young has been a vital part of the Utah Flash staff since the teams' inception in 2007 and adds a wealth of basketball knowledge to the organization.

'We are very excited to have Kevin take charge of this team and lead us through the 2010-11 season,' said Team President Drew Sellers. 'Kevin has proven himself worthy to join the head coaching ranks.'

Young has filled various roles within the Flash organization including assistant coach, scout, and director of basketball operations. He has participated in on-court coaching, player development, and has been an important aspect of player personnel decisions for the Utah Flash in its first three seasons. In addition to his time with the Flash, Young has spent time overseas as a head coach in Ireland, Estonia, and China. He is a graduate of Clayton State University where he is a top ten record holder in several statistical categories as a player. Young will assume the head coaching role for the Flash immediately and will look to fill vacancies in the assistant coaching position as well as put together a competitive roster for the 2010-11 season.

NBA teams contact BayHawks coach - Sep 9, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
John Treloar's (agency: Warren Sports International ) stint with the Erie BayHawks might be coming to an end. Treloar, 53, has been contacted by National Basketball Association teams, according to two sources close to the situation. Treloar, who headed up a free-agent tryout for the BayHawks this past weekend at Family First Sports Park, has a 48-52 coaching record with the NBA Development League franchise.

He led Erie to the playoffs in its 2008-09 expansion season with a 27-23 record, then went 21-29 in 2009-10. Treloar agreed to a two-year contract extension with Erie earlier this summer. Based on the connection between the BayHawks and one of their NBA affiliates, the Cleveland Cavaliers, two teams that might have been in contact with Treloar are the San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns.

Former Cavs general manager Danny Ferry, who is now the vice president of basketball operations for the Spurs, hand-picked Treloar to coach the BayHawks. As for the Suns, their new general manager, Lance Blanks, was an assistant under Ferry while with the Cavaliers and worked closely with Treloar as well. Blanks and new Cleveland general manager Chris Grant came to Erie to watch the BayHawks play at Tullio Arena during the past two seasons. Treloar came to the BayHawks after working as an assistant at LSU and Indiana University.

[Durbansandshark]

Plenty of news coming from the Reno Bighorns. The news didn't stop with Eric Musselman becoming the new head coach for Reno. Musselman managed to bring in as his assistant former Rio Grande Valley Vipers coach and ex-NBA scout (Cleveland, Orlando, Golden St., and Sacramento) Clay Moser, who closely worked with Musselman in the Dominican Republic national team, Sacramento, and Golden St.

Reno even earned the top pick in the 2010 NBDL Draft, even when it finished atop the West Division at 28-22:

Sep 22, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Reno Bighorns won the 2010 NBA Development League draft lottery Tuesday night, and will have the first overall selection in the upcoming draft.

The Bighorns, NBA D-League affiliate of the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings, picked-up the top slot in the draft lottery today at the league's annual coaches meetings in Dallas. The New Mexico Thunderbirds earned the second pick, with the Maine Red Claws, Texas Legends and Springfield Armor rounding out the top five.

The NBA D-League Draft utilizes a 'serpentine' format, meaning the order will alternate in each of the eight rounds. Thus, Reno will have the first overall pick, and then will make the final selection of the second round, first pick in the third round and so on. The Draft will be conducted via teleconference on Nov. 1 from the NBA D-League headquarters in New York.

'The lottery is always an exciting time because it signals the tip-off of a new NBA D-League season,' said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. 'With the Draft order in place, teams are one step closer to determining their opening day rosters for the 2010-11 season.'

The order of the first round will be:

1. Reno Bighorns
2. New Mexico Thunderbirds
3. Maine Red Claws
4. Texas Legends
5. Springfield Armor
6. Iowa Energy
7. Rio Grande Valley Vipers
8. Utah Flash
9. Dakota Wizards
10. Fort Wayne Mad Ants
11. Sioux Falls Skyforce
12. Bakersfield Jam
13. Tulsa 66ers
14. Austin Toros
15. Erie BayHawks
16. Idaho Stampede

Last season, Reno selected guard Desmon Farmer with the seventh overall pick in the NBA D-League Draft. The Bighorns picked-up forward Antonio Meeking with the 10th overall selection in the 2008 Draft.

Under new Head Coach Eric Musselman, Reno begins its third season on Saturday, Nov. 20, at home against the Utah Flash. The Bighorns look to build on a successful 2009-10 campaign, which saw them earn the first playoff berth in franchise history.


Update on John Treloar: He now joins my Phoenix Suns, who should've been in the NBA Finals this past season, as Director of Player Personnel under new GM Lance Blanks, his old Cleveland boss.

Erie BayHawks head coach John Treloar (agency: Warren Sports International ) will leave the team to accept a position with the Phoenix Suns to work as their director of player personnel, BayHawks majority owner Steve Demetriou confirmed to the Erie Times-News on Tuesday afternoon. Treloar, who posted a 48-52 record in two seasons with the BayHawks, had agreed to a two-year extension with the D-League franchise earlier this summer. Treloar, 53, will be working for new Phoenix general manager, Lance Blanks, who was previously an assistant general manager with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

While in Cleveland, Blanks attended some of Erie's games at Tullio Arena and worked closely with Treloar. The Cavs and Toronto Raptors are Erie's NBA affiliates. The Erie Times-News has been unable to reach Treloar since reporting last week that NBA teams had contacted him. On the Suns' website, as of Tuesday, Todd Quinter was still listed as the team's director of player personnel. Quinter worked for Steve Kerr, who resigned from his role as general manager and president of basketball operations in June.

The San Antonio Spurs also contacted Treloar. A connection Treloar has with San Antonio is former Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry, who is now the vice president of basketball operations for the Spurs. Ferry hand-picked Treloar to coach the BayHawks.

In his first season with Erie, Treloar, who was an assistant at Indiana University and Louisiana State University, led the BayHawks in their expansion year to the 2009 D-League playoffs with a 27-23 record. Last season, Erie finished 21-29. NBA teams had to contact Demetriou to receive clearance to speak with Treloar. Considering the BayHawks are having free-agent tryouts early next month in Toronto and later in October in Cleveland, they are looking to hire a replacement for Treloar as soon as possible.

Free-agent tryouts: The BayHawks will have their final two free-agent tryouts next month in the home arenas of their NBA affiliates -- the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors.
The first one will take place Oct. 2-3 at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, while the second one is Oct. 9-10 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland.

The registration fee is $150.

Anyone registering after Oct. 1 must pay $175. The same fee applies to those registering the first day of each free-agent tryout.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com

With Treloar leaving for the Valley of the Sun, Erie bring in Jay James Larranaga form Cornell University as an assistant to lead the BayHawks into their third season of existence this November. He even was player-coach for the Irish national team.

The Erie BayHawks named Jay James Larranaga (6'5''-G-75, college: Bowling Green) their new head coach today.

Larranaga, 35, most recently was an assistant coach at Cornell University. Earlier, he was a player-coach for the Irish National Team for two seasons. He replaces John Treloar, who last week took a job as the Phoenix Suns' director of player personnel. Larranaga played collegiate ball at Bowling Green State University (1993-97) and played by 12 years professionally overseas, including stints in Spain, France, Ireland and Greece.

He will lead BayHawks into their third season in the NBA Development League. 'Jay Larranaga fits exactly what we were looking for in our next head coach -- he's passionate about the game, a competitor, a winner and has a great basketball pedigree,' BayHawks majority owner Steve Demetriou said. 'He understands what it takes to be successful and we're confident he and (assistant coach) Ben McDonald will continue to move our team in the right direction.'

James Larranaga said he is looking forward to coaching the team.
'I am extremely excited to be the new head coach of the Erie BayHawks,' he said. 'I am grateful that Steve Demetriou, Owen McCormick and the ownership group has selected me to continue the progress made by Coach Treloar. Together with Ben McDonald, (team president) Matt Bresee and the rest of the BayHawks staff I will work tirelessly to ensure the success of our team and franchise.'

Greg Ostertag could make a minor comeback to basketball as player/assistant coach for the seemingly unconventional Texas Legends (formerly the Colorado 14ERS)

There was an interesting visitor to the Mavericks' practice court Thursday a big, familiar-looking 7-2 fellow.

Greg Ostertag (7'2''-C-73, college: Kansas), the center from Duncanville who went to Kansas and spent most of his 11-year NBA career with the Utah Jazz, was working out with the Mavericks' Alexis Ajinca at American Airlines Center. Ostertag won't be wearing a Mavericks' uniform, but he may be close to earning a spot as a player and/or assistant coach with the Texas Legends, who will play in Frisco as part of the NBA Development League.

Ostertag, 37, has been out of basketball for four years. He spent nine seasons with Utah, then was with Sacramento for one year before returning to the Jazz for the 2005-06 season, after which he retired. Legends co-owner Donnie Nelson said it's possible Ostertag will join the team. The likable big man averaged 4.6 points and 5.5 rebounds for his NBA career. Asked if the Mavericks might have an interest in Ostertag, Nelson said that they already have four centers on the roster (Brendan Haywood , Tyson Chandler , Ajinca and Ian Mahinmi) and aren't looking to add more.

Beaubois coming along: Though he still has to use a walking boot to protect his surgically repaired left foot, point guard Roddy Beaubois could still be ready to play by the time the regular season begins Oct. 27. Though no timetable has been established, Beaubois said he's hopeful that his foot is well enough to play at the start of the season.

'It's a tough injury with where it is,' he said, looking down at the outside edge of his foot where a pin was inserted to fix the fracture. 'I just need to wait a couple more weeks, and the goal is to come back for the regular season. If I can come back early, great. But it [waiting] is the best thing to do.' Beaubois still walks with a decided limp when he's not in the boot, but at least he's no longer on crutches.

Courtesy of www.dallasnews.com

[Durbansandshark]

Houston Rockets sign Antonio Anderson - Sep 23, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The NBA Development League Champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced on Wednesday that their parent club, the Houston Rockets, has signed guard Antonio Anderson (6'6''-G-85, college: Memphis), who played with the Vipers last season.

The Vipers' first round pick in the 2009 NBA Development League Draft. Anderson recorded the assist on Craig Winder's Championship-winning buzzer-beater on April 27 at State Farm Arena. He averaged 17.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game in the postseason after averaging 16.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game during the regular season. Anderson earned a GATORADE Call-Up the Oklahoma City Thunder during the season, signing two 10-day contracts. He also played for the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2010 AirTran Airways Pro Summer League in Orlando and the Denver Nuggets during the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Anderson is one of four Vipers alumni in training camp with the Rockets, joining guards Aaron Brooks (6-0, 161, Oregon) and Jermaine Taylor (6-4, 210, Central Florida) as well as reigning NBA Development League Most Valuable Player and forward Mike Harris (6-6, 235, Rice). Brooks spent time with the Vipers during the 2007-08 season while Taylor and Harris played for the Vipers during the 2009-10 season.

The Rockets open training camp on Saturday at Toyota Center in Houston. The Rockets will shift Training Camp to State Farm Arena in Hidalgo on October 3 and 4 before hosting the Orlando Magic in their first pre-season game on October 5 at 7:30 p.m. on the Vipers' home court. Tickets are still available and can be purchased by calling the Vipers at 972-1144 or online at rgvipers.com.

Courtesy of The Rio Grande Valley Vipers

Utah Flash hire Assistant Coach Gene Cross - Sep 23, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Utah Flash announced today the addition of Gene Cross to the coaching staff. Cross fills the vacancy left by Mark Madsen, who has taken a leave from basketball to further his education at Stanford University.

'I am very excited to announce the addition of Gene Cross to the Utah Flash family. He has a very successful track record as an assistant coach and brings valuable head coaching experience to the Flash as well,' said Head Coach Kevin Young. 'Gene is a very hard worker and he will be great with our players.'

Cross, 38, comes to the Flash after a long and productive career coaching college basketball. Cross played at the University of Illinois, and has coached at the University of Illinois-Chicago, Depaul, Virginia, Notre Dame, and the University of Toledo. Cross was an assistant under 2007 and 2008 Big East Coach of the Year, Mike Brey.

'We couldn't be happier to have a guy like Gene Cross on our staff,' said Team President Drew Sellers. 'By all accounts Gene is a team player, and will do whatever it takes to make our organization successful both on and off the court.'

In addition to his on the floor coaching experience, Cross has held leadership positions as President of the Assistant Coaches Board in the National Association of Basketball Coaches. Cross has also been a key player in recruiting and access guidelines in the NCAA during his 15 year coaching career.

The Utah Flash begins its season by traveling to play the Reno Bighorns on Nov. 20. The Flash home opener is Dec. 3 against the Austin Toros at the UCCU Center. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling 801-434-4667 or visiting www.utahflash.com.

Courtesy of The Utah Flash

BayHawks guard Cedric Jackson invited to Cavaliers training camp - Sep 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Cleveland Cavaliers announced their 2010-11 Training Camp Roster which includes BayHawks guard Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.). Jackson received four separate 10-day contracts with three different NBA teams in 2009-10 (Cleveland-2, San Antonio and Washington) and appeared in 12 NBA games (Cavaliers-5, Spurs-3, Wizards-4). Visit the Cavaliers website at www.nba.com/cavaliers/ for complete Training Camp coverage.


CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 2010-11 ROSTER (as of September 25, 2010)

NO PLAYER POS HGT WGT BIRTHDATE FROM DRAFT YRS PRO

8 Christian Eyenga G/F 6-5 210 6/22/89 Congo '09 R
1 Daniel Gibson G 6-2 200 2/27/86 Texas '06 4
12 Joey Graham G/F 6-7 225 6/11/82 Oklahoma State '07 5
14 Danny Green G/F 6-6 210 6/22/87 North Carolina '09 1
21 J.J. Hickson F 6-9 242 9/4/88 North Carolina State '08 2
5 Ryan Hollins C 7-0 240 10/10/84 UCLA '06 4
4 Antawn Jamison F 6-9 235 6/12/76 North Carolina '98 12
15 Jamario Moon F 6-8 205 6/13/80 Meridian Community College '01 3
18 Anthony Parker G/F 6-6 210 6/19/75 Bradley '97 7
44 Leon Powe F 6-8 240 1/22/84 California '06 4
24 Samardo Samuels F 6-9 260 1/9/89 Louisville '10 R
3 Ramon Sessions G 6-3 190 4/11/86 Nevada-Reno '07 3
17 Anderson Varejao F/C 6-11 260 9/28/82 Santa Teresa, Brazil '04 6
31 Jawad Williams F 6-9 220 2/19/83 North Carolina '05 2
2 Mo Williams G 6-1 195 12/19/82 Alabama '03 7

TRAINING CAMP INVITES

6 Manny Harris G 6-5 185 9/21/89 Michigan '10 R
9 Cedric Jackson G 6-3 190 3/5/86 Cleveland State '09 1
10 Tasmin Mitchell F 6-7 240 6/25/86 Louisiana State '10 R
50 Greg Stiemsma C 6-11 260 9/26/85 Wisconsin '08 R
33 Loren Woods C 7-2 260 6/21/78 Arizona '01 6

HEAD COACH Byron Scott (Arizona State)
ASSISTANT COACHES Paul Pressey (Tulsa)
Chris Jent (Ohio State)
Jamahl Mosley (Colorado)
Joe Prunty (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo)
ATHLETIC TRAINER Max Benton (Colorado)
ASSISTANT COACH/STRENGTH & COND. COORD. Stan Kellers (Cleveland State)

Bakersfield's Trey Johnson invited to Lakers training camp - Sep 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
With training camp starting, the Lakers have invited another roster hopeful in 6'5' guard Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.). Like another training camp invitee, Anthony Roberson, the 26-year-old Johnson has a mix of NBA, NBDL, and international basketball experience. Johnson played college basketball at Jackson State University after transferring from Alcorn State. At Jackson State, Johnson lit up the scoreboards, averaging 25.3 points with 4.7 rebounds per game.

He was signed by the New Orleans Hornets in 2007 as an undrafted free agent, but was subsequently released after posting 4 points and 1.8 assists per game in under 14 minutes during the preseason. He then played overseas in Serbia before returning to the U.S. in 2008 to play for the NBDL's Bakersfield Jam, where he averaged 18 points per game through 76 games and three seasons. He also made the All-NBDL Second Team, and was selected to a NBDL All-Star game. In February 2009, Johnson was picked up by the Cleveland Cavaliers on a 10-day contract and returned overseas thereafter, playing in France and Italy.

While not physically gifted with great speed or athleticism, Johnson can be an offensive threat, particularly with his mid-range jump shot which he can knock down with relative consistency.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

[Durbansandshark]

Now in Brazil, coach Dee Brown is looking forward to Armor's second season - Sep 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Before the NBA Development League season gets underway, Dee Brown has taken a brief detour.

To Brazil.

The Springfield Armor coach is in Rio de Janeiro until Sunday, serving as camp director for America's Team Camp. The camp involves 40 players from the 17-and-under age category for competition, drills and life-skill education. 'I do a lot of camps, and I've traveled to China, Australia, Canada, all over,'' Brown said by phone Thursday.

'I do a lot of stuff with Nike and the NBA, which are doing this camp. It's a chance to expand the sport to Latin America and South America.'' Ten players each from Argentina, Brazil, Puerto Rico and Mexico are participating. Brown is supervising a camp in which Gordon Chiesa, director of pro scouting for the Memphis Grizzlies, and former NBA payer and college assistant Miles Simon are serving as coaches.

After the four-day camp ends Sunday, Brown will return to Springfield by the middle of next week. He will then dig into preparation for the Armor's second season. Open local tryouts will be held Oct. 23-24 at Springfield College. Brown said they will follow the same general format as last year. 'We put the hammer down the first day, to separate those who don't really understand the level of play we're at,'' he said.

'The second day, we go a little slower. We'll probably do a little more playing this year than last, though you need some structure. 'Otherwise, it's just a glorified scrimmage, guys running around and you can't really tell much from that.''

Brown expects nine new players on the 10-man Armor roster this year. He expects guard JamesOn Curry, an Armor mainstay who appeared in one game for the Los Angeles Clipper year, to be the only returning player. 'Every team will have (at least seven or eight new players. It's not unusual in our league,'' Brown said. Brown and assistant coach Kevin Whitted will be back, providing stability to the coaching staff.

The Armor will also pick at a favorable position, fifth, in the D-League draft.
Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Shane Edwards invited to Nuggets Training Camp - Sep 28, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The NBA Development League New Mexico Thunderbirds have announced today that forward Shane Edwards (6'7''-F-87, college: UALR) has been invited to Denver Nuggets training camp and will be one of 17 players on Denver's preseason roster.

In 39 games (25 starts) with the Thunderbirds, Edwards averaged 12.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while shooting 62.5% from the field and 72% from the free throw line during the 2009-10 season. Edwards played for the Nuggets during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas this past summer, averaging 10.8 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He appeared in all five games for a Nuggets team that went 4-1.

'We are very proud work of the hard work and determination Shane has shown in his quest for a spot on an NBA roster. Shane's success proves that players who hone their skills in the NBA Development League can and do get noticed by NBA teams. Our League is one of the best avenues into the NBA for talented young men who are willing to put forth a high level of effort in pursuit of their dream,' said team co-owner, Jackie Bregman.

Courtesy of The New Mexico Thunderbirds

Brad Jones named Toros new Head Coach - Sep 29, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Austin Toros announced today that Brad Jones will be their new head coach. Jones spent the last three seasons successfully coaching the Utah Flash which was highlighted by an appearance in the 2009 D-League Finals. Jones has also served as a scout for the NBA's Utah Jazz and coached at Lambuth University from 1995-2001.

RC Buford, president of sports franchises for Spurs Sports and Entertainment (who own the Toros) had this to say, 'We are excited to have Brad join our organization. We are confident that Brad will provide outstanding leadership and instruction for the Toros players. His coaching style will provide our fans with an outstanding experience while still focusing on the Toros main mission, which is player development.

Training camp for the Toros begins November 9 with the season getting under way November 19 in Maine.

Courtesy of www.austinchronicle.com

NBA Development League announces rules changes for 2010-11 - Oct 1, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The NBA Development League today announced two rules changes for the upcoming 2010-11 season: incorporating the goaltending rule used in international competition and shortening overtime periods. As the NBA's official minor league, one of the NBA D-League's primary functions is to serve as its research and development arm.

'In addition to developing 20 percent of current NBA players and numerous coaches and referees who are enjoying NBA success, we also function as the NBA's 'Research and Development' department and, therefore, are continuously looking for ways to improve the sport of basketball,' said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. 'We believe implementing these new rules will make our games even more exciting for both players and fans alike, while providing a valuable service for the NBA.'

The new goaltending rule follows the standard used in the international game that allows a player to knock the ball away when it is on the rim. Prior to this season, the NBA D-League used NBA goaltending rules, which prohibit players from touching the ball when it is on the cylinder.

Overtime periods in the NBA D-League this year will be three minutes in duration, down from the five minutes of previous seasons.

'There are myriad benefits to having the NBA D-League serve as the NBA's farm system,' said NBA Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations, Stu Jackson. 'One of the advantages is that it allows us to look at the rules of play and experiment with ways we can make the game more competitive.'

Among some of the NBA D-League's past innovations are the following: becoming the first league under the NBA umbrella to show all of its games live online free of charge; instituting a playoff format that allows each of the three division winners to select its first-round opponent from among the remaining postseason teams; and testing the adidas-developed NBA Revolution 30 uniforms, which will be worn by NBA teams this season, as well as various versions of the official Spalding basketball.

Courtesy of D-League (taken from www.oursportscentral.com)

Iowa Energy sign Nick Nurse to one year extension - Oct 5, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Iowa Energy today announced the signing of Head Coach Nick Nurse to a one-year contract extension through the 2010-11 season.. Nurse, the only coach in the team's history, has compiled a 90-67 record in three years with the Energy. During that time, the Energy have won two division titles.

'I am really excited to get the season started and try to defend our divisional title,' said Nurse. 'We will have a good nucleus of former players returning which will give us another competitive and exciting team.'

Iowa's 2010-11 schedule features 20 of 24 home games on the weekend, including the home opener on Saturday, November 20th.

'Nick has been a huge part of our success, and we are extremely excited to have him back. Our organization has a goal to bring to title to Des Moines, and having Nick at the helm gives us a great opportunity to do so,' said Energy Managing Owner Jerry Crawford.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

[Durbansandshark]

New BayHawks coach makes first appearance in Erie - Oct 6, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
James Larranaga's 7-year-old daughter already has made a good observation about Erie.

'Driving around this area, my daughter immediately was noticing how many franchises there are,' Larranaga said with a smile. 'It has everything you need and everyone says it's a great place to raise a family, which is important to me.' Larranaga, 35, hasn't had too much time to sightsee, though. The new Erie BayHawks coach has been very busy trying to get ready for the upcoming D-League season.

'He's a fast mover,' BayHawks majority owner Steve Demetriou said. 'He's already got his family here. He's a mover and shaker. He's action-oriented. He's got a good presence. We're all pretty excited and he's very excited.' On Monday, the BayHawks had their first news conference for Larranaga at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Medical Fitness & Wellness Center nearly two weeks after naming the former Cornell assistant their coach.

Larranaga replaced John Treloar, 53, who is now the director of player personnel for the Phoenix Suns. 'It's a great opportunity,' said Larranaga, who was joined Monday by his wife, Andrea, 35, and two children, Tia and James, 4. Last week, Larranaga and BayHawks assistant Ben McDonald spent time with Erie's NBA affiliates, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors. The two were at Cleveland's training camp in Independence, Ohio, working with the Cavaliers and later had an open tryout for the BayHawks in Toronto.

'I don't think we found the next Steve Nash, which is disappointing,' a grinning Larranaga said, referring to the two-time NBA MVP who is from Canada. While working with the Cavs at their training camp, Larranaga has observed which players they have who may fall under the D-League's new allocation rule. This season, a D-League team can invite as many as three players to training camp who have been cut from its NBA affiliates if those players have signed D-League contracts by the Nov. 1 draft.

Erie could bring in a total of three players the Cavs and Raptors cut from their rosters. 'There are a couple of young players in Cleveland's camp in particular that if they don't make the team might be interested in the D-League,' Larranaga said. 'They're on the cusp.
'Obviously, if they make some decisions on a player and someone does get cut, we'll be very quickly calling them and giving them a place to fall back to and help them try to reach their goal of playing in the NBA.'

Larranaga and McDonald will return to Cleveland later this week to work with the Cavaliers and conduct Erie's third and final open tryout this weekend at the Quicken Loans Arena's practice gym. 'Whatever he needs me to do, that's what I'm here to do,' McDonald said.
The Cavs had their new director of player personnel, Wes Wilcox, and new vice president of basketball operations, David Griffin, at Monday's news conference to support Larranaga.
'We met Jay and Ben at training camp,' Griffin said. 'They were there a few days before that. Jay is extremely high energy.'

Demetriou said new Cleveland coach Byron Scott would have been in Erie on Monday as well, but Scott had a 'meet and greet' in Cleveland with suite holders and fans of the Cavs.
'I had to turn that down to come here and he had to turn this down to be there, but you can see by the fact that Griffin and Wilcox are here, the Cavs are committed,' Demetriou said.
Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Thunderbirds announce full coaching staff - Oct 8, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The New Mexico Thunderbirds announced today in a press conference that they have hired former NBA player, Sean Rooks, as assistant coach for the 2010-11 season. The T-Birds have also added former New Mexico Lobo, Notch Neves, as a volunteer assistant for the season.

Rooks was originally selected in the second round of the 1992 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks out of the University of Arizona. He averaged a career best 13.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per game in his rookie season for the Mavericks. Overall, Rooks played for seven teams during his 13-year NBA career, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans Hornets and Orlando Magic. He has spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach for the Bakersfield Jam. Rooks also worked as a broadcaster for the Jam for two seasons.

Neves played for the University of New Mexico Lobos from 1992-94. He helped lead the Lobos to back-to-back Western Athletic Conference Championships in 1993 and 1994 and two consecutive NCAA tournament appearances. Neves also played professionally in the New Zealand Basketball League for the Nelson Giants. Last season, Neves worked as a volunteer bench coach for the Thunderbirds.

'We are very excited to add Sean Rooks and Notch Neves to our coaching staff as we prepare for an exciting and productive season. Sean and Notch both bring a wealth of basketball knowledge that is not only valuable, but essential to the development of our players and the success of the franchise,' Thunderbirds head coach Darvin Ham said.

Courtesy of The New Mexico Thunderbirds

Top Performances of Former D-Leaguers in Last Nights NBA Preseason Action - Oct 9, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
* (Last D-League season, Team)*

Milwaukee Bucks (110) vs. Detroit Pistons (115) - OT
BUCKS: Ersan Ilyasova (6'10''-F-87) (05-06, Tulsa): 18pts+7reb+4ast
PISTONS: Will Bynum (5'11''-G-83, college: Georgia Tech) (05-06, Roanoke): 14pts+4reb+9ast

Washington Wizards (96) vs. Chicago Bulls (107)
WIZARDS: Andray Blatche (6'11''-C-86) (05-06, Roanoke): 14pts+3reb++2stl, Lester Hudson (6'3''-G-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) (09-10, Maine/Dakota): 9pts+2reb+3ast+2st
BULLS: Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) (09-10, Tulsa): 5pts+4reb+5ast

Oklahoma City Thunder (96) vs. Miami Heat (103)
THUNDER: Daequan Cook (6'5''-G-87, college: Ohio St.) (07-08, Iowa): 9pts+1reb+1ast+2stl, D.J. White (6'9''-F-86, college: Indiana) (09-10, Tulsa): 4pts+3reb+2bs
HEAT: Joel Anthony (6'9''-C-82, college: UNLV) (07-08, Iowa): 1reb+3bs, Kenny Hasbrouck (6'3''-G-86, college: Siena) (09-10, Rio Grande Valley): 2pts+2ast,

Portland Trailblazers (99) vs. Denver Nuggets (109)
BLAZERS: Raymond Sykes (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Clemson) (09-10, Sioux Falls): 4pts+3reb+3bs
NUGGETS: Gary Forbes (6'7''-G/F-85, college: Virginia) (08-09, Sioux Falls, Tulsa): 3pts+2reb+2ast

Los Angeles Clippers (87) vs. Golden State Warriors (127)
WARRIORS: Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, college: VMI) (09-10, Sioux Falls): 20pts+3reb+1ast, Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) (05-06, Ft. Worth): 3pts+3reb+4ast+2stl

[Durbansandshark]

Kramer expects to join Mad Ants - Sep 21, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Chris Kramer (6'3''-G-88) is close to signing a professional basketball contract.

And he could start his first pro season close to home.

Kramer, a Huntington native and Purdue graduate, said he expects to sign a contract with the Milwaukee Bucks soon and will participate in training camp. Ultimately, he anticipates starting the season for the Bucks NBA Development League affiliate in Fort Wayne, there is no deal in place for that arrangement. Mad Ants president Jeff Potter declined comment.

We had a couple things that were in the mix and then (agent) Buddy (Baker) thought it was the best situation, Kramer said. He said coach (Scott) Skiles really liked the way I play. Its obviously a big step.

Im excited for a chance to go to training camp. With the Bucks, they really dont have any spots available for guaranteed money. Their 15-man (roster) is full, so its just a chance to go up there and hopefully have a good camp and put yourself in an even better position than you were when you stepped in to go to camp. Go down to play with the Mad Ants and hopefully play well again and make the dream come true and play in the NBA.

Kramer will sign a contract when he gets to Milwaukee on Wednesday, Baker said. Kramer will work out there until training camp begins Sept. 28. The Bucks have eight preseason games, and their regular season starts Oct. 27.

Kramer had a pre-draft workout with the Bucks and also spent time in Milwaukee working out before the Pacers nabbed him for their team in the AirTran Airways Pro Summer League in Orlando.

Baker said theres a chance Kramer could stay with the Bucks or land on another NBA team before the D-League option comes into play.

You have to go through the process, Baker said. The roster is full, but Chris is a guy who sometimes makes people change their minds.

His first objective is to play with the Bucks. Teams could sustain injuries, have openings, and he could wind up on another NBA team. That happens every year and will happen again this year. Will it happen to him? I dont know. But ultimately that could happen.

Kramer would have to sign a D-League contract to play with the Mad Ants, who start camp Nov. 8 and play their first game Nov. 21.

Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net

Bighorns select Moser as assistant coach - Sep 17, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Clay Moser, a former NBA Development League head coach and advance scout for several NBA teams, was named the Reno Bighorns' top assistant, the team announced Thursday.

Moser worked with Bighorns head coach Eric Musselman with the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors and Dominican Republic National Team.

'Clay will be a tremendous asset to the Bighorns,' Musselman said in a news release. 'He has a remarkable background and I'll lean heavily on his experience as a head coach in the NBA D-League. Clay has great loyalty and a phenomenal work ethic. He is as organized as any coach I have ever been around.'

Moser was head coach of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the 2008-09 season, guiding the team to a 21-29 record.

He also has served as an advance scout for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Kings and Warriors.

Courtesy of www.rgj.com

[Durbansandshark]

Top Performances of Former D-Leaguers in Last Nights NBA Preseason Action - Oct 9, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
* (Last D-League season, Team)*

Milwaukee Bucks (110) vs. Detroit Pistons (115) - OT
BUCKS: Ersan Ilyasova (6'10''-F-87) (05-06, Tulsa): 18pts+7reb+4ast
PISTONS: Will Bynum (5'11''-G-83, college: Georgia Tech) (05-06, Roanoke): 14pts+4reb+9ast

Washington Wizards (96) vs. Chicago Bulls (107)
WIZARDS: Andray Blatche (6'11''-C-86) (05-06, Roanoke): 14pts+3reb++2stl, Lester Hudson (6'3''-G-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) (09-10, Maine/Dakota): 9pts+2reb+3ast+2st
BULLS: Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) (09-10, Tulsa): 5pts+4reb+5ast

Oklahoma City Thunder (96) vs. Miami Heat (103)
THUNDER: Daequan Cook (6'5''-G-87, college: Ohio St.) (07-08, Iowa): 9pts+1reb+1ast+2stl, D.J. White (6'9''-F-86, college: Indiana) (09-10, Tulsa): 4pts+3reb+2bs
HEAT: Joel Anthony (6'9''-C-82, college: UNLV) (07-08, Iowa): 1reb+3bs, Kenny Hasbrouck (6'3''-G-86, college: Siena) (09-10, Rio Grande Valley): 2pts+2ast,

Portland Trailblazers (99) vs. Denver Nuggets (109)
BLAZERS: Raymond Sykes (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Clemson) (09-10, Sioux Falls): 4pts+3reb+3bs
NUGGETS: Gary Forbes (6'7''-G/F-85, college: Virginia) (08-09, Sioux Falls, Tulsa): 3pts+2reb+2ast

Los Angeles Clippers (87) vs. Golden State Warriors (127)
WARRIORS: Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, college: VMI) (09-10, Sioux Falls): 20pts+3reb+1ast, Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) (05-06, Ft. Worth): 3pts+3reb+4ast+2stl

Gansey named Mad Ants Assistant Coach - Oct 13, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

The Fort Wayne Mad Ants announced today that Steve Gansey (6'2''-G-85, college: Cleveland St.) has been named assistant coach for the 2010-2011 season. This will be Gansey's second year with the team, as he served as a volunteer assistant under head coach Joey Meyer during the 2009-2010 season.

'I am extremely excited to have someone as talented as Steve Gansey join our staff. Steve is smart, passionate, and has a work ethic that is second to none,' said Mad Ants President Jeff Potter. 'He is one of the top young coaches in our league, and he was a huge part of our strong finish last season. He and Joey make a fantastic coaching staff, and I feel our basketball team is in great hands.'

Last season Gansey played a vital role in developing Mad Ants Rob Kurz and Oliver Lafayette, who each earned an NBA Call-Up at the conclusion of the Mad Ants season.
Gansey worked for Priority Sports and Entertainment in Chicago as a basketball operations intern during the summer of 2009. Prior to that, he served as an assistant coach for the USA U19 National Basketball Team, where he helped develop players like Stephen Curry, Michael Beasley, and 2010 NBA Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans.

Gansey played at Cleveland State, where he played for Coach Mike Garland. Following Coach Garland's departure from Cleveland State, Gansey spent his junior and senior years playing for Ashland University. 'I am looking forward to the opportunity to help develop players and get them to the next level,' Gansey said. 'I have learned a ton from Coach Meyer over the past year and I'm excited for the upcoming season.' A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Steve has five older brothers. Brother Mike played for West Virginia University before a successful career in the D-League, where he was a member of the 2010 NBA Development League Select Team.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Maine Red Claws hire Hernando Planells as AC - Oct 13, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today announced that Hernando Planells Jr. been named the team's assistant coach under Head Coach Austin Ainge. Planells replaces Randy Livingston, who left the team following its successful inaugural season to become the head coach of the Idaho Stampede.

'I'm excited to have Hernando on staff,' said Red Claws Head Coach Austin Ainge. 'He has great character and work ethic, and he will be a tremendous help as we get ready for our second season.'

Hernando Planells Jr. is in his tenth season as a coach, with experience at the high school, college and professional ranks. He has also choreographed sports action in movies, commercials and print ads. Among his experience, he has coached the Ryukyu Golden Kings (Basketball Japan) and was the head coach of the Hollywood Fame (ABA), where he began as the assistant coach and Director of Player personnel to former NBA head coach Don Casey. For the past three seasons, Planells has served as a scout for Marty Blake, the Director of Scouting for the NBA. In his role as a scout, he put together scouting reports evaluating NBA prospects which were circulated to every NBA GM and player personnel director. Prior to scouting, Hernando founded ELITE athlete training which specialized in personal training and consulting services for athletes. Through his work with ELITE, Hernando trained and assisted over a hundred athletes reach their goal of gaining a college scholarship or playing professionally.

In 2005, Planells was named the first Vice President of Basketball Operations/Head Coach in Wyoming Golden Eagles (AAPBL) history. His experience includes stints as a college assistant coach at Citrus College, one of the top Community Colleges in the State of California, and was on staff at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and as a high school coach at Los Angeles High School, Immaculate Heart High School (AZ) and Monrovia High School.

Hernando's experience and background has also allowed him to serve as a sports choreographer on movies and television for Mark Ellis and The Sports Studio as well as on his own. Some of his work includes the basketball scenes and the training of the actors on movies such as 'Coach Carter' starring Samuel L. Jackson, 'The Longest Yard' starring Adam Sandler, 'Rebound' starring Martin Lawrence and Spider-Man 3 starring Tobey McGuire and others. His experience has also led him to work on commercials and print for the WNBA, Target and Nissay Insurance (featuring Japanese Basketball superstar Yuta Tabuse). His production work has also led him to train the athletes of 'Extreme Dodgeball', the highest rated show on the Game Show Network. Planells also appeared on SPIKE TV's 'SLAMBALL' as the head coach of the Bouncers for three years.

[Durbansandshark]

Interview with NBA D-League Forward Cory Underwood - Oct 14, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)

From New Mexico, to Canada, to Idaho, to North Dakota to Texas...Cory Underwood (6'10''-F/C-80, college: SUNO) packed his bags more times last season than some do over the course of four. But, when you are a commodity in demand, you go where you are wanted. At 6-10, 230 pounds, Cory Underwood has the measurables that make scouts drool, and the skill-set that coaches dream about.
Past opportunities, like training camp with the Philadelphia 76ers, have shown him that though the step from the D-League to the NBA is short, the journey is long and difficult; Underwood is now looking for the chance to prove himself on the international stage.

USBASKET: You played for four D-League teams in five months last season. What was the experience like, moving around so often?

CORY: The constant change was tough, but it comes with the job. However God doesn't give me what I can't handle. Only one situation was in my control, which was Albuquerque...where I asked to be released. Idaho I was traded to. Dakota I was told before I signed they would only need me for one month. My light at the end of the tunnel was Austin for sure. I was treated fairly and had a great relationship with the organization. Coach Q (Snyder) and Taylor were pleased with how coachable and hard-working I was. I cannot say enough about the Austin organization.

USBASKET: On one hand it must have been frustrating not having a sense of stability, but on the other side, each of the teams you played for saw something in you and your game that they felt could help their team, so there must have been a sense of appreciation also, right?

CORY: I definitely agree. I was brainwashed into believing no team wanted or recognized my talents in the D-League. I thought that if I left Albuquerque nobody would pick me up. Knowing what I know now, I should have left earlier; I'd probably be back in the NBA right now. Coach Snyder told me this past season after I was released from the 76ers that they tried to get me to Austin...I was never told that. Mind you, that year Austin had Anthony Tolliver (6'9''-C-85, college: Creighton), Andre Brown (6'9''-F/C-81, college: De Paul), and Gaines Charles (6'7''-F-81, college: S.Mississippi). These are NBA / Euroleague guys and he still wanted me. That was a good feeling because mentioning my name with those 3 speaks volumes about my ability.
Pretty much every team reached out to me in the D-League. It was a good feeling to know these coaches knew me and most thought I was one the elite forwards in the league.

USBASKET: What were some of the biggest differences between the teams/cities you played in last season? Did any one have a bigger impact on you?

CORY: I loved Albuquerque, I was comfortable there. There were a lot of things to do outside of basketball far as eating, movies, shopping and sight seeing. So, I was never bored. Idaho was nice as well, great scenery. Bismarck was always cold, so I stayed in a lot...and Austin was by far the best. I did my internship there after my first D-League season so I was already familiar with the city.

USBASKET: What have the past three seasons in the D-League done to help you develop, both as a person and as a player?

CORY: The league is truly a simulation of the NBA and it prepares you for the next level. On every team in the D-League there are about 5 to 7 guys with NBA experience, so that helps. As for me, with having such a large skill set, playing inside and outside...I credit people like Darvin Ham, Shawn Respert, Joel Abelson, Kevin Rice and Coach Taylor with helping me in all aspects of my game. As a person it has helped me broaden my thoughts for life after basketball and aided me in ways to carry myself. I'm naturally a quiet individual, however I've learned being quiet sometimes isn't a good thing. It can be read wrong by others.

USBASKET: Obviously, the difference in salaries between the D-League and international leagues is substantial, but what are some of the other reasons you are more focused on playing in Europe this season?

CORY: Its always a blessing to see other places. I know the fans in Europe are very passionate about the game, I'm eager to witness that. I'd like to go to Soccer matches, and just experience different things. I'm ready to go somewhere, be a major contributor and carry my team to victories!

USBASKET: How would you best describe the style of your game? Who has helped you the most in your development?

CORY: I feel I can play in any system; whether it is up-tempo or a slow down, grind-it-out type of game. From what a lot of the D-League coaches told me, they liked me because at 6'10 I'm active. I can guard all three front-court positions...I run the floor, block and contest shots on defense. On offense I can score with my back to the basket in a variety of ways, I command a double team which opens up the floor for my teammates...I can handle the ball, hit the mid-range jumper on a consistent basis, and can shoot the three if needed.
Mark Williams of team FOOTPRINTZ (NY) is whom I credit with helping me develop my game. I've been training with him every summer for the past 5 years.

USBASKET: Speaking to teammates and people you know playing or involved overseas, what kind of situation would you expect? What countries have you heard the best stories about? Any preferred destinations?

CORY: Every situation is different. All I know is that you have to have patience and be strong minded. As long as I have a nice place to live, internet and English television channels I'll be fine! I just want to go somewhere and concentrate solely on BASKETBALL. I hear countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, Israel are beautiful. As for destinations, I'd play anywhere, but if I had to pick a preferred country...I'd like to play in Spain LEB Gold, Italy Serie A or Lega Due, France A or B, Belgium, Greece, Israel, Turkey, Hungary, Germany and Poland.
I'd also like a chance to go back to China as well, I have unfinished business there. I tore my meniscus in my 1st game, mid-way thru the 3rd quarter. I finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds...if I didn't get hurt I wouldve finished with 35-40 points and 16-18 rebounds, for sure! I tried to play on 1 leg out there after the injury like 3 games, but I just couldn't run or jump! I played all summer in NYC with it...I didn't know what was wrong until September of last year. The knee is 100% now, so I'm very happy about that.

Bernarn Smith named Wizards Assistant Coach - Oct 15, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

The Dakota Wizards announced today that Bernard Smith has been named the team's assistant coach under Head Coach Rory White for the 2010-11 season. Smith began his coaching career in the NBA as the video coordinator for the Portland Trailblazers for two seasons from 2002-2004. He was then promoted to assistant coach prior to the start of the 2004-05 season. Smith also served as the video coordinator for the WNBA's Portland Fire in 2002-03. Smith's most current stop was with the Philadelphia 76'ers from 2005-2009 as an assistant coach and player development.

'We are very excited to add Bernard to the organization as we prepare for another exciting season. Bernard brings a great deal of basketball experience that will be essential in the development of our players and the continued success of the organization,' said Wizards Head Coach Rory White. Smith, a native of Philadelphia, has a daughter Karai and a son Javon. Both coaches will be in Washington D.C. this weekend, as the Dakota Wizards will hold an open tryout at the Verizon Center, home of the Washington Wizards.

[Durbansandshark]

Jackson invited to BayHawks camp - Oct 23, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.) is returning to Erie.

After a standout rookie season playing point guard for the BayHawks, Jackson has been invited to the team's training camp beginning Nov. 6.

Jackson, who received NBA call-ups from three teams last season, was part of the Cleveland Cavaliers' training camp before getting waived earlier this month.

The BayHawks also announced Friday they are inviting former Gannon standout forward Kyle Goldcamp and forward Nate Linhart. Goldcamp played for the BayHawks last season, while Linhart, a 6-foot 8-inch forward out of the University of Akron, played in Austria.

Linhart participated in Erie's open tryout in Cleveland earlier this month.

Top Former D-League Call-Ups in the NBA this Season - Oct 26, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
With 63 players on opening night NBA rosters with some sort of D-league experience, there quite a few choices for those who will make a big impact this season. In fact, the Los Angeles Clippers are the only team in the league without a single player boasting previous time logged in the D-league. The types of players who have passed through the D-League come in all forms, from former NBA Draft lottery selections (most recently #2 overall pick Hasheem Thabeet), to grinders who had to work and work to get a chance in the NBA (Sacramento Kings point guard Pooh Jeter (5'11''-G-83, college: Portland)) to established NBA rotation players who just had pit-stops in the D-league (Andray Blatche, Marcin Gortat, Louis Williams, Joel Anthony, etc). With tip-off on the 2O1O-11 NBA season a few hours away, here are some of the former D-Leaguers who earned call-ups in seasons past or spent entire seasons in the D-League and now have a chance to step in and help NBA teams from the first game on.

Von Wafer (6'5''-G-85, college: Florida St.) (Boston Celtics): The 6-5 guard out of Florida State's last stint in the D-league was spent with the Colorado 14ers during the O6-O7 season. In 42 games he scored 21 points per contest before earning end of season call-up from the Clippers and Nuggets. After leaving the NBA for a less than successful stint in Europe with Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus and then subsequent rehab from injury, the still 25 year old shooting guard will get a chance to push Marquis Daniels and Nate Robinson for the role of instant offense off of the veteran Celtics bench.

Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, college: VMI) (Golden State Warriors): One of last seasons best D-League call-ups is back with the team that gave him the call. Williams led all NCAA players in scoring for two years in a row while at VMI, yet it took a sensational 2OO9-1O DLeague season in Sioux Falls for the small forward to earn a shot in the NBA. After signing with the Warriors in March, Williams went on to average over 15 points a game while shooting 56.O% from the field. With newcomer Dorrell Wright tentatively slotted to start at SF, Williams will be a key sixth man for the Warriors and it would not surprise if he earned a starting slot at some point in the season.

Pooh Jeter (Sacramento Kings): A D-League All Star during his rookie 2OO6-O7 season with the Colorado 14ers, Jeter is finally back with where he should have been after leaving Portland University. Eugene Pooh Jeter was in training camp with the Kings after his senior season of university, but was one of the last cuts in camp. Since then he has played in the D-League, Ukraine, Spain and Israel, always coming back to play in the NBA Summer League, but never quite making the cut. Until this season; now, poised to contribute behind Beno Udrih and reigning NBA ROY Tyreke Evans, Jeter will change the pace and should help a young but talented group of Kings reserves.

Insight about the type of players who make it to the NBA who are actually deficient in play and how the NBDL tries to help them. There is one thing that does not get mentioned here: NBA player pecking order issues and whether the team needs to go into a youth movement or is in a win-now mode. Very true that college coaches and their staffs don't have as much time to develop the players more. Many, as is mentioned, will not fully make the NBA, but the opportunity to try is there.
http://www.opposingviews.com/i/can-the-d-league-raise-the-skill-level-of-nba-players

[Durbansandshark]

Some tons more stuff regarding the NBDL that occurred in the last few months with special help from NBDL Fanhouse:

Dell Demps make his way to the New Orleans Hornets after he left the Austin Toros:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/07/26/dell-demps-last-weekend-with-spurs-outlines-a-hornets-future/#cntnt

More on Kevin Young becoming the Utah Flash's new head coach:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/02/kevin-young-to-be-named-utah-flashs-next-coach-sources-say/#cntnt

More on Eric Musselman going to Reno
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/10/former-nba-head-coach-eric-musselman-to-be-named-head-coach-of-d/

...And Darvin Ham is the new man at Albuquerque (now New Mexico):
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/07/27/darvin-ham-to-be-named-head-coach-of-nba-d-leagues-new-mexico-t/

Since the league's inception, many NBDL teams struggle to make a profit in where they are. To that end, two NBDL teams, the Eric BayHawks and defending champs Rio Grande Valley Vipers, are taking a page from many overseas soccer, hockey, and handball teams and even the WNBA teams by allowing principle sponsors on their jerseys. Expect other NBDL teams to follow suit. Unlike their WNBA counterparts, which took in $1 million annually in profits from this, the team names will be still be on the game jerseys.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/02/two-nba-d-league-franchises-enter-jersey-sponsorship-deals/

Could the NBDL be a potential home for numerous college players who are academically ineligible?
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/05/will-barton-and-the-nba-d-league-as-a-home-for-the-academically/

Fanhouse's picks for the 10 2010-11 season NBDL games to watch this upcoming season:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/11/top-10-games-of-the-2010-2011-nba-d-league-schedule/

New Orleans Hornets sign Tulsa's Mustafa Shakur
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/23/new-orleans-signs-nba-d-leagues-mustafa-shakur/

Go the NBDL Camp with Shoals featuring Dee Brown:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/27/shoals-goes-to-camp-a-bloggers-education-of-hoops-and-history/

Danny Ferry returns to the Spurs to
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/25/report-danny-ferry-returning-to-spurs-will-oversee-d-leagues/oversees the Austin Toros:

Joe Crawford was invited Sacramento Kings' training camp:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/08/joe-crawford-invited-to-sacramento-kings-training-camp/

An interesting thing happened with the new Texas Legends in their expansion draft. They get the NBDL rights to the former emissaries of evil from the Evil Laker Empire NBDL Chapter, a team that is thankfully not around this season. They could convince several players to return and give the NBDL another try. But they won't Simpson, who's playing in Europe.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/08/31/legends-complete-nba-d-league-expansion-draft/

More on that Greg Ostertag comeback
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/10/greg-ostertag-attempting-comeback-in-nba-d-league/

John Treloar goes to the Suns' Front Office
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/14/d-league-coach-john-treloar-joining-suns-front-office/

Marcus Landry also goes to Sacramento Training Camp:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/21/marcus-landry-invited-to-kings-training-camp/

Lance Allred, the first deaf player in the NBA, invited to Indiana Pacers training camp
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/21/lance-allred-first-deaf-player-in-nba-invited-to-pacers-traini/

How the allocations with the NBA teams can help NBDL players, if not immediately after training when the rosters are complete for Opening Day, maybe for them later on if the teams are savvy enough to pick them in their bonds. Look for mass cosmetic changes due to this.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/25/allocation-rule-change-strengthens-nba-d-league-affiliate-bond/

Jay Larranaga as Erie's new head coach
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/22/erie-bayhawks-hire-jay-larranaga-to-replace-john-treloar/

NBDL Tryouts
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/27/nba-d-league-teams-hold-local-tryouts/

NBDL tries out new rules straight outta FIBA to make basketball more universal
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/09/28/d-league-to-adopt-rule-changes-similar-to-fiba-nba-could-follow/

Brad Jones heavily immerses himself into the San Antonio Spurs culture as Austin coach
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/10/01/new-toros-coach-brad-jones-integrating-with-spurs-culture/

In keeping with its "maverick" ways, the Texas Legends (formerly the Colorado 14ERS) announce a new Chinese owner, a first in the NBDL and NBA. Not at all surprising when considering the international basketball knowledge co-owner Donn Nelson has in abundance. After all, it was he who negotiated with the Chinese People's Liberation Army and Chinese Basketball Association to bring Wang Zhizhi to Dallas in 1999. Del Harris coached China in Athens 2004.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/10/05/legends-introduce-first-chinese-born-owner-in-nba-d-league-hist/

The new NBDL basketball, ready for use this season. Surely it won't be the outright disaster that the synthetic NBA ball was.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/10/15/nba-d-league-to-implement-new-ball-design-for-2010-2011-season/

Rashard McCants cut by Dallas. Will he go to Texas as perhaps the best player not in the NBA?
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/10/22/rashad-mccants-weighs-options-after-being-cut-by-mavericks/

[Durbansandshark]

NBDL 2010-11 season is now underway

Scottie Reynolds leaves Prima Veroli - Nov 2, 2010 (by Emiliano)

After four games, Scottie Reynolds (188-G-87, college: Villanova) left Prima Veroli. Landed last summer in the Italian Legadue team with high expectations, the point guard former Villanova did not impress with his performances and decided to part ways with ther club.
Reynolds, a standout during his college career, was selected on Monday by Tulsa 66ers in the NBDL Draft (13th overall). With Veroli Reynolds averaged 12.3ppg, 2.5apg and 1.8rpg in four games and 28.8 minutes on the court. At the end of his last NCAA career, he was selected to USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 1st Team and NABC Division I All-America 1st Team.
In Veroli, Reynolds was replaced by Scoonie Penn.

Versus in the US expands its NBDL TV coverage this season
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/02/versus-to-expand-nba-d-league-coverage-this-season/

Former Villanova star Scottie Reynolds traded to the Springfield Armour from the Tulsa 66ERS
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/02/scottie-reynolds-former-villanova-star-traded-to-springfield-a/

66ers announce training camp roster - Nov 7, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

The Tulsa 66ers, proud affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder, announced today the team's training camp roster for the 2010-11 season. The 66ers will open camp on Sunday, Nov. 7 inside the Tulsa Convention Center. Tulsa will play its first preseason game on Friday, Nov. 12 against the Texas Legends at 7 p.m., followed by a matchup with the Austin Toros on Nov. 13 at 1 p.m. Both games will be played in Frisco, Texas.
The team has also announced its annual media day is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 11 from 4-5:15 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. Media should contact Tulsa 66ers PR Manager Mitch Heckart, (918) 585-8444 or (405) 213-6220, for all media availability throughout training camp.

The 66ers open their season on the road with back-to-back contests against the Bakersfield Jam on Nov. 19 and 20. Tulsa's home-opener is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 26 against Iowa. For ticket information and purchases call (918) 585-8444.


TULSA 66ERS 2010-11 TRAINING CAMP ROSTER

Brandon Brooks | G | 6-2 | 187
Demond 'Tweety' Carter | G | 5-10 | 185
Mamadi Diane | G | 6-6 | 205
Zabian Dowdell | G | 6-3 | 190
Jerome Dyson | G | 6-3 | 180
Steven Hill | C | 7-0 | 250
Marlon Jones | C | 6-9 | 268
Marcus Lewis | C | 6-8 | 245
Josh Lomers | C | 7-0 | 250
Elijah Millsap | F | 6-6 | 210
Larry Owens | F | 6-7 | 210
Perry Stevenson | F | 6-9 | 220
Devin Sweetney | F | 6-5 | 205
Michael Sturns | F | 6-5 | 205
Robert Vaden | G | 6-5 | 215
Latavious Williams | F | 6-8 | 220
Head Coach: Nate Tibbetts (agency: Impact Basketball) (South Dakota)
Assistant Coach: Dale Osbourne (South Alabama)
Video Coordinator: Jermaine Byrd (Sioux Falls)
Athletic Performance Coordinator: Bryce Daub (Central Washington)
Athletic Trainer: Tony Katzenmeier (Kansas State)
Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Rockets assign Patrick Patterson to D-League - Nov 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced today that the team has assigned forward Patrick Patterson (6'9''-F-89, college: Kentucky) to Houstons single-affiliation NBA D-League partner Rio Grande Valley. Patterson is expected to join the Vipers today.

Patrick is making tremendous strides in practice and coach is very comfortable that he could help us win in the NBA right now, said Morey. However, our depth at the big spot with Yao Ming, Luis Scola, Brad Miller, Jordan Hill, Chuck Hayes and Jared Jeffries means there is no playing time available. We believe strongly that players improve best by playing in games and the upcoming stretch presented a timely opportunity for Patrick to join Vipers training camp.

Patterson (6-9, 235, Kentucky), who was selected by the Rockets in the first round (14th overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, has been on the inactive list for Houstons first six games. He averaged 4.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 15.2 minutes in six games for the Rockets during the preseason. Patterson also averaged 9.2 points and 7.2 rebounds in five games (four starts) with Houston during the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

An early entry candidate out of Kentucky, Patterson finished his three-year career with averages of 16.1 points (.585, 617-1054 FG; .329, 24-73 3FG), 8.2 rebounds and 1.57 blocks in 97 career games (97 starts). He was one of five Wildcats picked in the opening round of the 2010 NBA Draft, which was the first time five players from one school were chosen in the first round of the draft. A 2007 McDonalds All-American as a high school senior, Patterson became the 10th fastest player to reach the 1,000-point club at UK (58 games). He was a two-time All-SEC First-Team pick as a junior and sophomore, as well as a Second-Team selection as a freshman.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Sundiata Gaines Makes NBA Season Debut with Minnesota Timberwolves - Nov 13, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)

Former NBA D-League standout Sundiata Gaines (6'1''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) is back in the NBA, having been signed by the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday and made his 2010-11 season debut during their 112-103 home victory over the New York Knicks. To make room for Gaines, fellow D-League alum, Maurice Ager was waived. Gaines, a 6-1 point guard out of Queens, NY, appeared in 32 games for the Utah Jazz in 2009-10, averaging 3.3 points and 1.2 assists in 6.8 minutes per game. Gaines rose to fame after nailing a buzzer-beating three pointer (the first of his NBA career) to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers last January. Before earning a call-up from the Idaho Stampede, the University of Georgia product appeared in 14 D-League games, and averaged 23.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 6.9 assists while shooting a remarkable 61.3% from the field. Gaines was one of Utahs last cuts during training camp, but was only out of work a few weeks, having been signed by the Wolves to provide support for starter Sebastien Telfair while Luke Ridnour and Johnny Flynn recover from injury. In his season debut Gaines logged 11 minutes off the bench, dishing out one assist and swiping one steal.

Jason Terry's half-brother Curtis attempts to make a name for himself with the new Texas Legends
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/05/curtis-terry-jasons-brother-hopes-to-make-name-for-himself/

Texas Legends new coach Nancy Lieberman on being women's basketball trailblazer, raising her son TJ, running and promoting Texas and not just her coaching duties, and on a starstruck meeting with the First Baller In Chief. More on Nancy will arrive soon.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/05/the-first-lady-of-hoops-nancy-lieberman-prepares-for-d-league-s/

Did Ebanks and Caracter go to the NBDL?
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/08/lakers-devin-ebanks-and-derrick-caracter-headed-to-d-league/

[Durbansandshark]

Rockets assign Patrick Patterson to D-League - Nov 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced today that the team has assigned forward Patrick Patterson (6'9''-F-89, college: Kentucky) to Houstons single-affiliation NBA D-League partner Rio Grande Valley. Patterson is expected to join the Vipers today.

Patrick is making tremendous strides in practice and coach is very comfortable that he could help us win in the NBA right now, said Morey. However, our depth at the big spot with Yao Ming, Luis Scola, Brad Miller, Jordan Hill, Chuck Hayes and Jared Jeffries means there is no playing time available. We believe strongly that players improve best by playing in games and the upcoming stretch presented a timely opportunity for Patrick to join Vipers training camp.

Patterson (6-9, 235, Kentucky), who was selected by the Rockets in the first round (14th overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, has been on the inactive list for Houstons first six games. He averaged 4.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 15.2 minutes in six games for the Rockets during the preseason. Patterson also averaged 9.2 points and 7.2 rebounds in five games (four starts) with Houston during the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

An early entry candidate out of Kentucky, Patterson finished his three-year career with averages of 16.1 points (.585, 617-1054 FG; .329, 24-73 3FG), 8.2 rebounds and 1.57 blocks in 97 career games (97 starts). He was one of five Wildcats picked in the opening round of the 2010 NBA Draft, which was the first time five players from one school were chosen in the first round of the draft. A 2007 McDonalds All-American as a high school senior, Patterson became the 10th fastest player to reach the 1,000-point club at UK (58 games). He was a two-time All-SEC First-Team pick as a junior and sophomore, as well as a Second-Team selection as a freshman.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

More here:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/09/patrick-patterson-assigned-to-rockets-d-league-affiliate/

Sundiata Gaines and Trey Johnson were among the prospective PGs the Minnesota Timberwolves were eyeing after a poor start. Though as stated earlier, Gaines was since signed.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/09/trey-johnson-sundiata-gaines-among-timberwolves-point-guard-ta/

Come 2011-12 season, the New Jersey Nets, with their young team, will assume sole affiliation of the Springfield Armour.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/11/new-jersey-nets-springfield-armor-to-enter-single-affiliate-par/

With Toronto struggling as expected in the Eastern Conference, particularly on the offensive end, the Raptors assigned second-round draft pick Solomon Alabi to Erie to get more playing minutes and better offensive production. Alabi is known for his defensive prowess out of Florida State, but his Hepatitis B diagnosis scared many teams away leading up to the NBA draft.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/15/solomon-alabi-assigned-by-raptors-to-d-leagues-bayhawks/

Phoenix's Gani Lawal goes to Iowa, one of the NBDL's best teams
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/16/suns-assign-gani-lawal-to-nba-d-leagues-iowa-energy/

When Antonio Daniels makes his comeback with the NBDL's Texas Legends coming from his injury, he will be the oldest player ever in the league for a hope with a return. But it doesn't faze; he embraces the sport wherever he goes. With his age, he'll take on a leadership role for Nancy Lieberman.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/17/antonio-daniels-embraces-d-league-as-shot-at-nba-return/

Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the defending champs, got a revamped roster in pursuit of another title. But that's how it goes with minor league sports. For his part in this, Vipers and Team Great Britain coach Chris Finch looks forward to another, hopefully, championship season.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/18/chris-finch-revamped-vipers-ready-to-defend-d-league-title/

Big names from Antonio Daniels to Stanley Robinson to JamesOn Curry are in the NBDL as the season just started. It's more so now that it has ever been in the league's short history. Each of these players went through long, winding journeys to get to where they are and ultimately hope to be. Though it is not the most lucrative, the NBDL is the easiest route to get back into the NBA.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/20/big-names-entering-nba-d-league-soon/

NBA D-League Training Camp Roster Moves - Nov 13, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Post Draft Trades
Fort Wayne: Acquired Darnell Lazare (6'8''-F-85, college: LSU) from Maine for a 2011 second-round pick. Lazare, a 6-8 forward out of LSU averaged 10.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 50 games with the Red Claws last season. They also acquired veteran forward Marvin Phillips (6'6''-G/F-83, college: Claflin) from Iowa for a 2011 4th round pick.

Tulsa: Traded Mustafa Shakur (6'3''-G-84, college: Arizona) to Rio Grande Valley in exchange for former UAB standout Robert Vaden (6'5''-G/F-85, college: UAB). Vaden was in training camp with the 66ers parent club the Oklahoma Thunder this season.

Springfield: Acquired former NCAA All-American and Villanova star Scottie Reynolds (6'2''-G-87, college: Villanova) from Tulsa for a 2011 first-round pick. Reynolds began this season in Italys second division with Prima Veroli before heading back home for a shot in the D-League.

Texas: Acquired former NBA guard Reece Gaines (6'6''-G-81, college: Louisville) from Bakersfield for a 2011 second-round pick.

Utah: Acquired center Longar Longar (6'11''-C-85, college: Oklahoma) from Bakersfield in exchange for guard D'Andre Bell (6'6''-G/F-87)..

Bakersfield: Acquired former Notre Dame big man Lukas Zeller (6'11''-F/C-87, college: Notre Dame) and a future eight-round pick in exchange with Iowa for a future second and third.

Training Camp Reductions
Erie: Waived Jared Carter (7'1''-C-87, college: Kentucky), Jimmy Conyers (6'5''-F) and Frank Tolbert (6'4''-G-86, college: Auburn) from their training camp rosters.

Tulsa: Waived Marlon Jones (6'10''-C-84, college: Oklahoma City), Michael Sturns (6'5''-G-86, college: Holy Family) and Devin Sweetney (6'6''-G/F-87, college: St.Francis, PA) from their training camp rosters. They also announced the retirement of former Arkansas center Steven Hill (7'0''-C-85, college: Arkansas).

Erie BayHawks Topple Fort Wayne Mad Ants in Pre-Season Action - Nov 14, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
A balanced Erie squad took control after an even first quarter to knock off the host Fort Wayne mad Ants 90-84 last night in Indiana. Five players scored in double figures for Erie, led by former NBA Call-Up Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.) who scored a team-high 14 points to go with 10 assists. Erie took the lead in the second quarter and held it for the remainder of the contest, but Roderick Wilmont (6'4''-G-83, college: Indiana) scored nine of his game-high 20 points in the final quarter to spur a Mad Ants comeback which fell short.
BAYHAWKS: Cedric Jackson (14pts+5reb+10ast), Ivan Johnson (13pts+9reb), Kyle Goldcamp (13pts+6reb+5ast), Nate Linhart (11pts+7reb+6ast)
MAD ANTS: Roderick Wilmont (20pts), Carlos English (13pts), Darnell Lazare (12pts+8reb), Chris Kramer (9pts)

[Durbansandshark]

Phoenix Suns Sign NBA D-League Veteran Earl Barron - Nov 16, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
Former NBA D-League center Earl Barron (7'0''-C-81, college: Memphis) has been signed by the Phoenix Suns. With starting center Robin Lopez out for several weeks with a knee injury, the former Memphis Tiger big man will step in for the Suns. Barron has played parts of four seasons with New York and Miami. The 7-footer appeared in seven games for the Knicks last season, averaging 11.7 points and 11 rebounds. To make room for Barron, rookie Matt Janning has been waived and 2010 NBA Second Round Draft Pick Solomon Alabi has been assigned to the Iowa Energy of the D-League. The 7-0 Barron has appeared in 121 career D-league games over five seasons, with career averages of 13.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists while shooting 48.8% from the field. His best season was his last, when he started 47 games for the Iowa Energy in 2009-10, averaging q16.2 points and a career high 10.2 rebounds, on his way to earning All-Star and All-League Third-Team honors. Since making his NBA debut in 2005-06, Barron has played in 89 career games for Miami and New York, with career averages of 5.5 points and 3.7 rebounds. With Lopez out and alibi on assignment, Channing Frye, Barron and rookie Garrett Siler are the only true centers on the Phoenix roster.

McCants due to join Texas Legends soon - Nov 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Apparently, the long-running uncertainty regarding Rashad McCants (6'4''-G/F-84, college: N.Carolina) is close to a resolution. Donnie Nelson, co-owner of the Texas Legends, said the former NBA first-round pick is supposed to join the team in the next couple of days.
He will quickly be placed in the starting lineup, Nelson said, along with Antonio McDaniels, Reece Gaines and Sean Williams, making the Frisco D-League team rich in NBA experience with four players who have competed in the big league. The Legends have their fan jam tonight and open the regular season Thursday at the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

Courtesy of http://sportsblogs.star-telegram.com

Energy release five, roster set - Nov 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Iowa Energy have waived guards Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri), Kammron Taylor (6'2''-G-84, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin), Jason Bohannon (6'2''-G-87, agency: N.E.T.), David Nurse (6'3''-G-87, college: UMKC) and forward Kendrick Price (6'8''-F-86, college: Michigan). The roster now stands at 10 players, including Phoenix Suns assignee Gani Lawal.

Following is the list of players remaining on the training camp roster:

Name Pos Ht From

Curtis Stinson G 6'3 Iowa State
Kyle Weaver G 6'5 Washington State
Chris Lofton G 6'2 Tennessee
Shyron Ely G 6'4 Evansville
Michael Haynes F 6'7 Fordham
Scott Vandermeer C 7'1 Illinois-Chicago
Connor Atchley F 6'10 Texas
Gani Lawal* F 6'9 Georgia Tech (Phoenix Suns Assignee)
Courtney Sims F/C 6'11 Michigan
Othyus Jeffers G/F 6'5 Robert Morris (IL)
* - Rookie

More cuts - Nov 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced Wednesday that they have finalized their opening night roster follow the waiving of guard/forward Ramon Harris (6'7''-F-88).

The Erie BayHawks set their 10-man roster today in preparation for the start of the season by waiving three players: Maureece Rice (6'1''-G-84, college: George Washington), David Gomez (6'7''-F-85, college: Tulane) and Charlie Parker (6'4''-G-85, college: Millersville). Rice is being released due to injury, giving the BayHawks the first right of refusal to sign him upon getting a clean bill of health.

The Sioux Falls Skyforce waived guard Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) and forwards John Millsap (6'6''-F-82, college: UTSA) and Brandon Smith today. The active roster now stands at 11 players.

courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Cavaliers assign Christian Eyenga to D-League - Nov 19, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Cleveland Cavaliers have assigned guard/forward Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89) to the Erie BayHawks of the NBA Development League, Cavaliers General Manager Chris Grant announced today. Eyenga has yet to make an appearance with the Cavaliers during the regular season. He played in six games during the preseason, averaging 4.3 points on .625 shooting and 0.8 rebounds in 11.3 minutes per game. The 6-foot-5 rookie from Congo will be available to play for the BayHawks in their season-opening game versus the Springfield Armor tomorrow night at 7 p.m. at the Tullio Arena in Erie. The BayHawks are the D-League affiliate of the Cavaliers and the Toronto Raptors.
Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

More from NBDL Fanhouse:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/18/cavs-assign-christian-eyenga-to-nba-d-league-erie-bayhawks/

Second year pro with Minnesota Jonny Flynn mulls a rehab stint in the NBDL ala what major league baseball players typically deal with when coming back to the team.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/20/jonny-flynn-mulls-rehab-stint-in-nba-d-league/

[Durbansandshark]

2010 NBDL Draft coverage:

1. Reno Bighorns--Nick Fazekas (he returns to the state that made him famous and a hot NBA prospect)
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/nick-fazekas-picked-first-overall-by-reno-in-nba-d-league-draft/
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/nick-fazekas-to-be-drafted-first-overall-in-nba-d-league-draft/
His coach in Reno, Eric Musselman, gets creative with his draft picks
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/eric-musselman-gets-creative-to-prepare-for-nba-d-league-draft/
2. New Mexico Thunderbirds--Alan Anderson
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/new-mexico-thunderbirds-select-alan-anderson-with-2nd-pick-in-d/
3. Maine Red Claws--Magnum Rolle
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/red-claws-nab-steal-of-d-league-draft-1st-round-in-magnum-rolle/
4. Texas Legends--Matt Rogers
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/texas-legends-inaugural-draft-pick-is-matt-rogers/
5. Springfield Armour--Vernon Goodridge
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/springfield-armor-select-vernon-goodridge-fifth-in-d-league-draf/
6. Iowa Energy--Chris Lofton
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/iowa-energy-select-chris-lofton-sixth-in-d-league-draft/
10. Ft. Wayne Mad Ants--Obi Mounelo
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/01/fort-wayne-mad-ants-select-obi-muonelo-10th-overall/
12. Bakersfield Jam--Marqus Blakely
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/02/marqus-blakely-selected-by-bakersfield-jam/
13. Tulsa 66ERS--Scottie Reynolds
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/02/scottie-reynolds-selected-13th-by-tulsa-66ers-in-nba-d-league-dr/
16. Idaho Stampede--Salim Stoudemire
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/02/salim-stoudamire-drafted-16th-by-stampede-deal-worked-out-befor/

Full 2010 NBDL Draft results--8 rounds all--and review here (www.nba.com/dleague/draft_2010.html)

Substantial differences abound between the NBA and the NBDL. NBDL's pace is more like what the NBA was in the 1970s when the ABA served as its rival with a lot of possessions. But the defenses were not as sophisticated like it is now, with a lot of grinding it out, especially in the playoffs. And the NBA games are much slower than ever, even more so than in the NBDL and in the other minor basketball leagues. Scoring is comparable, but the NBDL comes out on top for that.
www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/11/19/1821035/comparing-the-nba-and-the-nbadl

2011's NBDL Showcase will take place at South Padre Island, Texas, best known as a favo(u)rite Spring Break destination for college students.
www.nba.com/dleague/showcase_2011.html

Mad Ants anticipate their fourth season of existence with "all of the pieces there" (to quote coach Joey Meyer)
www.journalgazette.net/article/20101120/SPORTS0603/311209941/1097/SPORTS0603

Curtis Stinson is back with the Energy, one of the league's teams, but changes abound throughout the league.
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20101119/SPORTS04/101119027/1003/SPORTS/Iowa-Energy-Stinson-s-back-but-changes-abound

2010-11 NBDL Assignment Outlook:
www.nba.com/dleague/news/assignments_101112.html

Toronto's Ed Davis just sent to Erie BayHawks on a short-term rehab and conditioning stint. He will be reunited with Solomon Alabi there.
www.nba.com/dleague/erie/davis_101122.html

Game reviews in the young season:

Vipers open title defense with win - Nov 19, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers opened up their title defense with a 123-115 win over the Texas Legends on Thursday at State Farm Arena in front of a crowd of 5,382. Terrel Harris got off to a hot start for the Vipers (1-0), hitting a pair of threes and a lay-up to keep the Vipers even with the Legends (0-1). Harris hit three three-pointers in the fourth quarter as well to help the Vipers pull away, finishing with 19 points. The Vipers trailed for much of the first half, but Richard Roby (6'6''-G-85) hit a pair of free throws to give the Vipers a 58-57 lead with 1:40 remaining in the second quarter.

Roby led all scorers with 31 points on 12-of-20 shooting, including 4-for-5 from behind the arc. He also had eight rebounds. The Vipers jumped out to an 82-73 lead in the third quarter. After the Legends climbed to within two points at 85-83, Mickell Gladness (6'11''-F/C-86) came alive, scoring eight points in the final 2:42 to give the Vipers a 95-87 lead after tipping in a missed shot at the buzzer. Gladness recorded a double-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds and three blocked shots.

The Legends were led by Justin Dentmon (5'11''-G-85, college: Washington), who scored 12 points on 8-of-10 shooting, including 3-for-3 from behind the arc. Antonio Daniels (6'4''-G-75, college: Bowling Green) scored 19 points with seven rebounds and seven assists while Kelvin Lewis finished with 18 points and six assists. The Vipers return to action on Saturday, November 27 at 12:00 p.m. when they face the Austin Toros at the Cedar Park Center.

[Durbansandshark]

Day Two review - Nov 20, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Bakersfield J. - Tulsa 66ers 104-101
A total of six Tulsa 66ers scored in double digits, led by Marcus Lewis' 23 points on 11-14 (.786) shooting from the field, but a missed 3-pointer for Tulsa at the buzzer allowed the Bakersfield Jam (1-0) to slip by the 66ers (0-1) by a 104-101 final Friday evening in Bakersfield in the season opener for both teams. Tulsa's Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) recorded the only double-double of the contest with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Adding 16 points each for the 66ers were Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, college: UAB), Robert Vaden, Zabian Dowdell and Tweety Carter. Dowdell also recorded six steals and tied a game-high five assists with Owens. Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) paced the Jam with a game-high 24 points while Jeremy Wise (6'3''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) pitched in 17. Patrick Mutombo added 14 points, including a 3-5 (.600) effort from 3-point range. The see-saw battle yielded 13 lead changes, including six in the fourth quarter. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Erie Bay H. - Springfield A. 109-71
The Erie BayHawks ran past the Springfield Armor, 109-71, with a potent full team effort on opening night at Louis J. Tullio Arena in front of 5,052 fans. After the game being tied at 14 at the four minute mark of the first quarter the BayHawks went on 16-2 run to end the frame and never looked back. Erie outscored the Armor 40-19 in the second to take a 33 point lead into halftime and led by as many as 42 in the fourth quarter. Erie had seven players in double figures: Solomon Alabi, on assignment from the Toronto Raptors, and Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) each had 13, Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89), on assignment from the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Tasmin Mitchell added 12 apiece, Nate Linhart chipped in 11, and Tasheed Carr and Derek Raivio each notched 10. Johnson recorded the team's only double-double by grabbing 11 rebounds. Scottie Reynolds (6'2''-G-87, college: Villanova) paced the Armor with 21 points and L.D. Williams added 14. The two teams meet again on Saturday night at 7pm. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Maine RC - Austin T. 97-103
The Maine Red Claws' second season opened much like its first - with a loss. The Austin Toros came into the Portland Expo and survived a slow start and a couple of Red Claws rallies in the final quarter to hold on for a 103-97 victory. Maine led by 13 early, but fell behind by 1 at the half. A 3-pointer by Champ Oguchi with just under six minutes left gave Maine its final lead, 91-89. Austin scored the next seven points, five by Lewis Clinch, to take the lead for good at 98-91. Three straight baskets by Lawrence Westbrook brought the Red Claws within a point at 98-97, but they would not score again. Paul Harris (6'5''-F-86, college: Syracuse) led Maine with 20 points while Tiny Gallon and Oguchi each had 17. Marcus Cousin (6'11''-C-86, college: Houston) led Austin with 21. The teams meet again tonight at 7 at the Expo. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Dakota W. - Iowa E. 92-113
The Iowa Energy picked up where they left off, winning the first game of their NBA Development League season 113-92 against the Dakota Wizards. Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) scored 27 points, Gani Lawal (6'9''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) had 22 and 13 rebounds and Othyus Jeffers had 20 and 10. Sims also grabbed seven rebounds for the Energy. Former Iowa State star Curtis Stinson had 11 assists for the Energy. Stinson, Sims and Jeffers were key contributors to last season's team, which went 37-13, a league record. The Energy held Dakota to 3-of-15 (20 percent) on 3-point attempts. The Energy play their first home game of the season at 7 p.m. Saturday in a rematch against Dakota at Wells Fargo Arena. *Courtesy of www.desmoinesregister.com

[Durbansandshark]

Saturday's games (6) review - Nov 21, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Bakersfield J. - Tulsa 66ers 93-108
Just one night after Bakersfield opened the 2010-11 season with a thrilling three-point home win over Tulsa, the Jam suffered its first loss of the year, falling to the 66ers 108-93 at the Jam Center on Saturday. Once again, turnovers (19) plagued the Jam, as well as cool shooting (32-of 80 from the field for 40 percent). Trailing by 15 points to start the fourth, the Jam went on a 9-5 run, but the Sixers applied the pressure, forcing turnovers and scoring consistently. Tweety Carter's layup with just over a minute to play gave the Sixers a 17-point lead, their largest of the contest. Tulsa outpaced the Jam to start the game and had extended its lead 20-8 before Bakersfield stormed back with an 8-0 run to end the first trailing 23-20. The Jam pulled to within a point three times in the second, but the Sixers opened up a nine-point lead on Zabian Dowdell's 3-pointer, as Tulsa headed into halftime with a 49-41 lead. Bakersfield narrowed the deficit to three to start the third quarter on Marques Blakely's tip in, but the Sixers mounted a 14-point lead on a pair of Carter free throws. Bakersfield's Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) finished with a double-double, with 10 rebounds and 11 points. For a second consecutive night, the Jam's guard duo of Jeremy Wise (6'3''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) and Trey Johnson made their presence known. Wise finished with 22 points and Johnson 21. Bakersfield outrebounded Tulsa 48 to 31. Brandon Wallace led the team with 14. Carter finished with 18 points, and Dowdell had a 21 points for Tulsa. *Courtesy of www.bakersfield.com

Reno Bighorns - Utah F. 117-106
After five years of professional basketball, Reno Bighorns guard Aaron Miles still had jitters just before the team's season opener Saturday night. But it's nothing compared to the jitters he had Tuesday watching his son being born. Just four days after delivery, Miles scored 17 points with 13 assists in the Bighorns' 117-106 win over Utah at a sold-out Reno Events Center. Former Wolf Pack player Mo Charlo (6'7''-F-83, college: Nevada) led Reno with 22 points and Nick Fazekas (6'11''-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) had 21. Miles' emotions were a little higher for the birth of his second child, Adonis, because he was playing in Greece when his first child, Aaron Jr., was born. It really hit him at the airport before his flight to Reno when he had a friend take a picture of him, his wife Mikki and his two children. The Bighorns play Utah at 3 p.m. Sunday in the Reno Events Center. *Courtesy of www.rgj.com

Erie Bay H. - Springfield A. 94-98
The Springfield Armor bounced back from last night's lopsided loss to slip past the Erie BayHawks, 94-98, in a neck-and-neck battle on Saturday night at the Louis J. Tullio Arena. The BayHawks took the lead early in the game leading by five after the first quarter, but the Armor fought back and ended the half tied at 49. The Armor rallied with a 10-point run early in the third quarter but the BayHawks proved resilient and lead by as many as 5 points early in the fourth. With 26.5 seconds remaining, Erie's Nate Linhart cut the lead to one but the Armor's Brian Leggett and Scottie Reynolds knocked down free throws to seal the win. Erie had five players in double figures: Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) led the team with 18, Tasmin Mitchell had 13, Derek Ravio put up 12, Tasheed Carr pitched in 11, and Nate Linhart notched 10. Jameson Curry (6'4''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) led the Armor with 23 points and Scottie Reynolds added 21. The BayHawks travel to Fort Wayne to take on the Mad Ants on Friday, November 26, at 7:30pm. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Maine RC - Austin T. 93-88
Jamar Smith (6'3''-G-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: S.Indiana) scored 25 points as the Maine Red Claws beat the Austin Toros 93-88 Saturday to split their season-opening two-game series. Smith had 16 of his points in the first half as the Red Claws jumped out to a 49-42 halftime lead. Chamberlain Oguchi (6'6''-G-86, college: Illinois St.) added 21 points for Maine. Marcus Cousin led the Toros with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Carldell Johnson added 15 points and Thomas Gardner scored 14 for Austin. The Toros will return home for two games with the defending league champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers at noon Saturday and 5 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Cedar Park Center. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Iowa E. - Dakota W. 99-90
The Iowa Energy outplayed Dakota Wizards mostly owing to Othyus Jeffers (6'5''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Robert Morris), who scored 20 points and pulled down 6 rebounds. Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) was another player with very important role as he added 19 points and 14 rebs. In the loosing squad, Renaldo Majos collected 28 points and 8 rebs.

Idaho S. - New Mexico 93-114
Led by Alan Anderson (6'6''-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) 's 34 points, the New Mexico Thunderbirds (1-0) won their 2010-11 season opener against the Idaho Stampede (0-1) by a score of 114-93. Anderson hit six 3-pointers in the game and was 12-13 from the free throw line to pace the T-Birds. Thunderbirds second round pick, Anthony Richardson (6'7''-F-83, college: Florida St.) added 18 points and 15 rebounds. The Thunderbirds used a 15-3 run late in the first quarter to take an early 30-17 lead. Anderson scored seven points during the run and finished the quarter with 12 points including two of his six 3-pointers. With nine minutes to go in the second quarter, Lance Hurdle hit a three pointer for Idaho that cut the Thunderbirds lead to 36-30. The T-Birds would respond with a 20-6 run, that gave them a 56-36 lead with 2:07 to go in the first half. Early in the fourth quarter the Stampede closed within 11 points of the T-Birds on a Salim Stoudamire layup. The Thunderbirds answered with a 14-3 run to pull away from the Stampede and give them the opening night win. In addition to Anderson and Richardson, the Thunderbirds had two other players in double figures, Shane Edwards with 24 points and Dar Tucker with 18 points. The Thunderbirds will be back in action on Friday Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in their home opener at the Santa Ana Star Center against the Utah Flash. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sunday: Mad Ants and Bighorns celebrate - Nov 22, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Ft.Wayne MA - Sioux Falls S. 99-97
The Fort Wayne Mad Ants used a late run in the fourth quarter to win their season opener at home against the Sioux Falls Skyforce 99-97. Roderick Wilmont (6'4''-G-83, college: Indiana) energized the Mad Ants late in the game with an 18 point second half. Sioux Falls was hot at the start of the game, jumping out to a quick 16 point lead over the Ants, and they finished the first quarter up 31-21. The Skyforce held the lead going into the locker room at the half up 51-43 over the home team. The second half was a back and forth battle, as the Mad Ants led for the first time all game with 1:40 left on the clock off of two free throws made by Chris Kramer (6'3''-G-88, college: Purdue). The Skyforce had one last chance to win the game and came up short. Wilmont led all scorers with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Walker Russell (6'0''-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.) finished with 16 points and Darnell Lazare (6'8''-F-85, agency: Impact Basketball, college: LSU) contributed 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Skyforce had five players finish in double figures and were led by Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, agency: Rogue Sports), who finished with 17 points. These two teams will meet again Tuesday night at the Memorial Coliseum at 7:00pm. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Reno Bighorns - Utah F. 110-105
A game that saw each team hold a double-digit lead, seven technical fouls and 111 free-throw attempts fell Reno's way on Sunday, as the Bighorns outlasted the Utah Flash, 110-105, to complete the opening-weekend sweep in the Reno Events Center. Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jr. led five Bighorns in double figures on Sunday, recording 28 points to complement 11 rebounds and six assists. Ewing finished 15-of-17 from the charity stripe for a Reno squad that shot 74.1 percent (43-of-58) from the line on the day. The Bighorns (2-0) ran out to a quick 8-0 lead and led by as many as 16 in the first period. But the Flash (0-2) would fire back in the second, outscoring Reno 31-22 in the period to tie the score at the break, 50-50. In that second quarter, Head Coach Eric Musselman and point guard Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) were ejected after being handed two technical fouls apiece. In the second half, the lead changed hands four times, including a swing that pushed Utah ahead by 10. In the second half, though, Ewing scored 18 points and Mo Charlo kicked-in 12 to push the ‘Horns to the victory. Charlo finished with 18 points and 13 rebounds for Reno, while Nick Fazekas chipped-in 19 points and nine boards. The Flash were led by a 27-point effort by Kevin Kruger (6'1''-G-83, college: UNLV), who connected on 16-of-18 tries from the free-throw line. Orien Greene hit three three-point attempts on his way to 19 points. The Bighorns continue a season-opening five-game string at home next weekend. Reno takes on the Bakersfield Jam at 1 p.m. Friday and 7 p.m. Saturday in the Reno Events Center. Tickets are on-sale now. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

[Durbansandshark]

Shy Ely boldly fires key Iowa Energy shot - Nov 23, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Iowa Energy - Dakota Wizards 111-103

Don't let his name fool you. Shy Ely (6'5''-G/F-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: Evansville) has a bit of a swagger this season. It was evident in the third quarter Monday night when he drew a technical foul for sprinting downcourt after being whistled for a reach-in foul he felt was undeserved. And it was even more apparent late in the fourth quarter when the Iowa Energy, needing their biggest shot of the night, turned to Ely. He responded with a 3-pointer that helped Iowa hold off the Dakota Wizards 111-103 before an announced crowd of 3,171 at Wells Fargo Arena. 'I went home this summer to Indianapolis, and just worked my butt off. I took a lot of shots, and worked out nearly every day, which just builds your confidence,' said Ely, who scored 12 points after averaging 3.8 last season as a little-used Energy rookie. His biggest basket was a 3 from the right corner that came with 17 seconds left on the shot clock and Iowa (3-0) leading 106-100. 'It was a skip pass,' Ely said. 'That's what I've been doing the whole summer is working on my 3-ball. I was confident, no hesitation. I love being in the game at the end now. It shows that coach (Nick Nurse) trusts me a little bit more. Hopefully, I can keep making good plays.' Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) had 26 points and 11 rebounds for Iowa and Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) added 22 points, including a trio of fourth-quarter 3-pointers. Dakota (0-3) helped Iowa out by missing 13 of 37 free-throw attempts. Ely was one of three Energy players to pick up a technical, part of the NBA's crackdown on arguing with referees. Point guard Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) was whistled for one when he thrust his fist through the air after teammate Chris Lofton (6'2''-G-86, college: Tennessee) made a layup. Stinson assumed Lofton was fouled on the play and shouted, 'And one.' Not so fast. The referee called it an 'air punch,' which is now illegal. 'The ref knows it wasn't anything against him,' a contrite Stinson said. 'He said he didn't want to give it to me, but the rules are the rules. It's tough. You've got to hold your emotions in in certain cases. Next time, you've got to know, you just need to turn your back and walk away.' Stinson turned in a lot of positive plays as well, scoring 20 points with 13 assists. Twice, he hit jump shots just ahead of the shot clock, something at which the veteran from Iowa State excels. 'I keep glancing at it, glancing at it,' Stinson said of the shot clock. 'You wait to the 4-second mark and then you make your move. I try to keep the guy on his heels, make another move, look at the clock, then make the shot.'
*Courtesy of www.desmoinesregister.com

Antonio Anderson returns to Vipers, Jordan Eglseder waived - Nov 24, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced Monday that they have acquired guard Antonio Anderson (6'6''-G-85, college: Memphis), who played for the team last year and was in training camp with the Houston Rockets this year. To make room on the roster, the Vipers waived center Jordan Eglseder (7'0''-C-88, college: N.Iowa).

Anderson played in two games for the Rockets, averaging 4.0 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 8.5 minutes per game. The Vipers' first round pick in the 2009 NBA Development League Draft. Anderson recorded the assist on Craig Winder's Championship-winning buzzer-beater on April 27 at State Farm Arena. He averaged 17.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game in the postseason after averaging 16.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game during the regular season. Anderson earned a GATORADE Call-Up the Oklahoma City Thunder during the season, signing two 10-day contracts. He also played for the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2010 AirTran Airways Pro Summer League in Orlando and the Denver Nuggets during the 2010 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Thunder sends rookie Aldrich to D-League - Nov 25, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

The Oklahoma City Thunder is sending first-round draft choice Cole Aldrich (6'11''-C-88, college: Kansas) to the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League. Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced the move Wednesday. Aldrich has played in five games this season for Oklahoma City, averaging 1.0 points and 2.2 rebounds in about 9.6 minutes per game. The New Orleans Hornets picked the 6-foot-11 former Kansas star 11th overall in the NBA draft in June before trading him to the Thunder.

Latest D-League Transactions: Luke Jackson Returns to Idaho - Nov 26, 2010 (by Surujh Roopnarine)
New Mexico: Acquired James Cripe (7'0''-C-84, college: N.Kentucky) and waived Tyler Hughes (7'0''-F-84, college: Kansas St.). The 7-0 Cripe out of Northern Kentucky appeared in four games with Springfield last season, his third professional season. Hughes, another seven-footer, appeared in one game for the Thunderbirds, scoring four points in 12 minutes against Idaho on November 20th.

Sioux Falls: Acquired Anwar Ferguson (7'0''-C-81, college: Houston) and waived Jamal Abu-Shamala (6'5''-G/F-87, college: Minnesota). In just two-seasons, the 7-0, 200-pound center finished his collegiate career as Houstons fifth all-time leading shot blocker with 160 rejections, trailing only Hakeem Olajuwon, Dwight Davis, Greg Anderson and Bo Outlaw.

Utah: Acquired rookie forward Charles Garcia (6'9''-F-88, college: Seattle) and waived Carlos Medlock (6'0''-G-87, college: E.Michigan). The 22-year old Garcia went undrafted out of Seattle and signed with Oyak Renault Bursa of Turkey. After appearing in two games he left the team at the end of October. The 6-9 Garcia averaged 18.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.0 assists playing for former UCLA standout Cameron Dollar last season at NCAA D1 Independent Seattle.

Idaho: Acquired veteran small forward Luke Jackson (6'7''-F/G-81, college: Oregon). Jackson, the 10th overall selection of the 2004 NBA Draft returns to Idaho where he has played his entire 78-game D-League career. Over three previous seasons he has career averages of 15.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.0 assists while shooting 45.0% from the field and an impressive 43.6% from three. In 2009-10 Jackson took his talents to Italy where he played for Carife Ferrara (15.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2.1 steals, 51.5 FGP). The former Oregon Ducks star has spent parts of four NBA seasons with the Cavaliers, Clippers, Raptors and Heat, accumulating career NBA averages of 3.5 points and 1.2 rebounds in 73 combined games.

[Durbansandshark]

Friday's games review - Nov 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

New Mexico Thunderbirds- Utah Flash 109-100
The New Mexico Thunderbirds (2-0) rallied from an early 18-point deficit to top the Utah Flash (0-3) 109-100, in their home opener from the Santa Ana Star Center on Friday night. The Thunderbirds had six players in double digits; Alan Anderson (6'6''-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) (22 points), Shane Edwards (6'7''-F-87, college: UALR) (19 points), Anthony Richardson (17 points), Josh Bostic (14 points), Dar Tucker (13 points) and Dominique Coleman (12 points). *Courtesy of the New Mexico Thunderbirds

Reno Bighorns - Bakersfield Jam 105-90
D.J. Strawberry (6'5''-G-85, college: Maryland) marked his return to Reno with 14 points and five boards Friday afternoon, helping lift the Bighorns to a 105-90 victory over the Bakersfield Jam in the Reno Events Center. Strawberry, who starred for Reno last season, was added to the Bighorns roster on Thursday and registered 22 minutes off the bench in his season debut. The guard out of Maryland was one of seven Bighorns to finish in double-figures in scoring on the day. The Jam slowed the Bighorns out of the gate, but Reno outscored Bakersfield by 16 points in the second period and never looked back, cruising to their third-straight victory. The Bighorns stay perfect on the season and hold their perch atop the Western Conference standings. Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jr. led the ‘Horns with 20 points and nine rebounds on the day. Aaron Miles recorded 13 assists to complement 13 points, while Mo Charlo finished with 14 points, three steals and three blocked shots. Marcus Landry knocked-down three three-point tries on his way to 16 points. Bakersfield was led by 27 points from Trey Johnson, who shot 10-of-22 from the field. Brandon Wallace grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds for the Jam, who outrebounded Reno 50-40 on the afternoon. Alex Smith gave the Bighorns quality minutes off the bench before being hobbled by an injury in the second half. The Bighorns and Jam lock horns again on Saturday night inside the Reno Events Center. Tip-time is set for 7 p.m. Tickets are on-sale now. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Dakota Wizards - Sioux Falls Skyforce 77-88
Leemire Goldwire (5'11''-G-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Charlotte) led the way for Sioux Falls Skyforce (1-2) as they defeat the Dakota Wizards (0-4) 88-77 at the Bismarck Civic Center. Goldwire scored 32 points and was a perfect 12-12 from the charity stripe. Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87) Jr. contributed a double-double scoring 17 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. The Wizards trailed at the end of the first quarter 24-20 but managed to outscore the Skyforce 29-20 in the second quarter to lead at the break 49-44. Chris Johnson scored 16 of his 25 points to lead the way for the Wizards in the first half. The score was tied at 63-63 at the end of the third and the Skyforce would flex their muscle in the fourth quarter by going on a 22-0 run to close out the game. Goldwire scored 13 of his game high 32 points to pace the Skyforce in the fourth quarter. Chris Johnson led the way for the Wizards with a double-double scoring 25 points and grabbing 15 rebounds. Willie Kemp reached double figures for the first time this season scoring 16 points. The same two teams will square off tomorrow in Sioux Falls as Dakota will try to avenge tonight's loss in the Skyforce home opener. Courtesy: SF Skyforce/Dakota Wizards

Idaho Stampede - Texas Legends 100-108
The Texas Legends (1-1), the NBA Development League's expansion team for 2010-11, earned their first win in franchise history beating the Idaho Stampede at Qwest Arena 108-100. It was also the first victory for new head coach Nancy Lieberman, the first female head coach in American men's pro sports*. 'They work hard, they give their best effort,' Lieberman said of her team. 'There's a great kinship on this team. Our coaches push them to places sometimes they don't want to go. Whatever we do, we do with love and we do with honor and integrity.' Six Legends players had 10 or more points, including 23 off the bench from newcomer Joe Alexander (6'8''-F-86, college: W.Virginia). He added 10 rebounds. Sean Williams (6'10''-F-86, college: Boston Coll.) had a team-high 11 rebounds to go with his 11 points. Antonio Daniels had 13 points and 10 rebounds. The Stampede (0-2) led by as many as 16 before losing the fourth quarter 16-32. Walter Sharpe led the team in scoring with 24 points and seven rebounds. Seth Tarver had 21 points, seven rebounds and Lance Hurdle added 19 off the bench. Luke Jackson, playing in his first game as a Stampeder since the 2008-09 season totaled seven points, seven assists and nine rebounds. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

(*that's not true: Ashley McElhinney was coach of the ABA's Nashville Rhythym in the 2004-2005 season and was 23 years old at the time of her hiring. We famously wrote about her on these very boards at that time.)

Springfield Armour - Maine Red Claws 88-85
Things started easily for the Maine Red Claws, perhaps a bit too easily. The Red Claws began the game with a 9-0 run and led until Scottie Reynolds hit a 3-point shot from the top of the key with two-tenths of a second remaining to lift the Springfield Armor to an improbable 88-85 victory over a team seemingly in control for most of the game. The Red Claws were perhaps as stunned as the crowd of 2,404 at the MassMutual Center for the Armor's home opener, as Springfield came to life during the final three minutes and forced the Red Claws to make mistakes they had not made during the first 45 minutes. 'We turned the ball over way too many times in the final three minutes and let the game slip away,' Red Claws Coach Austin Ainge said. 'They made some good plays, but we just gave it away.' There was shock and disbelief in the Maine locker room, but the Red Claws feel fortunate they are right back here some 141/2 hours after this one ended for a noon game today against the Armor (2-1), who are over the .500 for the first time in franchise history. 'They're a better team (than last season) and you've got to give their defense credit,' Ainge said 'It was a battle.' DeShawn Sims (6'8''-F-88, college: Michigan), who was hit with a key technical foul during Springfield's fourth-quarter comeback, led the Red Claws (1-2) with 15 points. Tiny Gallon and Chamberlain Oguchi (6'6''-G-86, college: Illinois St.) each finished with 14. Reynolds had 30 points and Jerry Smith scored 21 for the Armor, who made 26 of their 35 free throws. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Tulsa 66ers - Iowa Energy 111-123
The Tulsa 66ers had four score in double figures and Cole Aldrich posted eight points and four rebounds but were unable to hold off the Iowa Energy, dropping the contest by a 123-111 final Friday evening inside the Tulsa Convention Center. Leading 92-89 heading into the fourth quarter, Iowa outscored Tulsa by a 31-22 margin to take the first victory of the back-to-back set between the two teams. 'Give Iowa credit, they are a great team and they showed it tonight,' Tulsa head coach Nate Tibbetts said. 'Our team will learn from tonight and I expect us to bounce back tomorrow. We showed some positive signs and we will look to build off of those tomorrow.' Larry Owens and Zabian Dowdell each scored 22 points and tallied six assists for the 66ers (1-2), followed by Robert Vaden with 19 points and Tweety Carter with 18 points. Owens added eight rebounds, including six offensive. Othyus Jeffers paced the Energy (4-0) offense with 32 points on 9-17 shooting. Chris Lofton (6'2''-G-86, college: Tennessee) (28) Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) (22), Kyle Weaver (20) and Shy Ely (15) also scored in double digits. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Latest transactions - Nov 27, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The New Jersey Nets have assigned second year guard/forward Terrence Williams (6'6''-F-87, college: Louisville) to their NBA Development League affiliate, the Springfield Armor, Nets General Manager Billy King announced today. The Miami Heat announced today that Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas) has been assigned to the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League. The Skyforce are the Heats NBA D-League affiliate. The Texas Legends today announced that they have claimed former University of West Virginia sharp-shooting forward Joe Alexander (6'8''-F-86, college: W.Virginia) off of waivers.

[Durbansandshark]

Saturday's games (7) review - Nov 28, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
New Mexico Thunderbirds - Utah Flash 104-109
The Utah Flash won their first game of the season, defeating the New Mexico Thunderbirds on Saturday, 109-104. The Flash shot 53.7 percent (36-67) in the game and were led by Andre Ingram (6'3''-G-85, college: American), who had 29 points and Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: La-Lafayette), who finished with 27. Jordan Brady chipped in 18 points and a team-high seven rebounds for the Flash in the win. Brian Hamilton also tallied five assists. The Flash travel to Bakersfield to take on the Jam before returning home to Utah for their first home game of the season, Friday against the Austin Toros. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at the McKay Events Center. *Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

Springfield Armour - Maine Red Claws 98-114
Behind Paul Harris (6'5''-F-86, college: Syracuse) 22 points and 8 rebounds, the Red Claws cruised to a 114-98 victory over the Springfield Armor, on Saturday afternoon, splitting the weekend series at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Friday night, the Red Claws gave up a late game lead resulting in a last second loss to the rival Armor. On Saturday afternoon, the Red Claws gained control of the lead early, just like Friday night, however this time Maine refused to let Springfield back into the game. 'They [Maine] were upset about last night,' said Red Claws head coach Austin Ainge. 'They came out and played aggressive.' Maine held a double digit lead for much of the game and every time the Armor tried to cut the lead to single digits the Red Claws had answers to counter it. 'When we got the lead, we had guys off the bench like DeShawn [Sims] and Kenny [Hayes] who would extend it,' said Ainge. 'Kenny pushed the ball well and DeShawn was a monster.' In the third quarter, the Armor came out of the break with much more passion and got to within 12 points, but within a minute Harris had extended the lead back to 16 after scoring on a put back and a nice drive and finger roll. 'I texted coach last night,' said Harris. 'I told him ‘I'm going to be aggressive. I'm not going to settle for jump shots and I'm going to attack the basket.'' The Armor kept fighting and got the lead back down to 11 with under four minutes in the third quarter, after an L.D. Williams slam got the crowd of 2,080 energized. But Red Claws guard Kenny Hayes came down the floor, drove to the lane and scored to stretch the lead back to 13. The fourth quarter was much of the same. Armor played hard trying to cut into the lead, but in the end Maine was just too much for Springfield. 'We needed big stops and big rebound and we didn't get them,' said Armor head coach Dee Brown. Harris led the Red Claws with his 22 points. Sims came off the bench to score 20 for Maine. Kyle Cuffe came off the bench and scored a game-high 26 points, while recording 9 boards for Springfield. JamesOn Curry scored 22, while Scottie Reynolds knocked in 21. The Armor and Red Claws began the weekend with identical 1-1 record and end the weekend with 2-2 records. These two teams will meet again next Thursday at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Brown expects that Terrence Williams of the New Jersey Nets will make his Armor debut. Tipoff is a 7 p.m. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Austin Toros - Rio Grande Valley Vipers 107-91
Austin rode a hot start in the fourth quarter to put away the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, 107-91, on Saturday at Cedar Park Center. The Toros (2-1) led 73-68 after three quarters before going on a 10-2 run to open the fourth. The Toros' Squeaky Johnson narrowly missed a triple-double with 10 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds. Lewis Clinch (6'3''-G-87, college: Georgia Tech) led all scorers with 22 points. Former Viper Marcus Hubbard (6'9''-C-83, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Angelo St.) had 18 points and nine rebounds. The Vipers (1-1) were led by Jerel McNeal's 19 points. Patrick Sullivan, Mustafa Shakur and Patrick Patterson each had 15. Antonio Anderson had four points in his return to the Vipers. The Vipers were outscored 34-23 in the fourth quarter and 30-21 in the second quarter. The Vipers built a 14-10 lead in the first quarter thanks in-part to a three-pointer and a lay-up by McNeal. The Toros came back to tie the game at 23-23 after back-to-back buckets by Hubbard. After the Vipers took the lead back, Hubbard in a jumper and then a three-pointer to give the Toros a 28-26 lead they did not relinquish. Despite getting outshot for most of the game, the Toros ended with a higher shooting percentage and hit more total shots as the Vipers finished 31-for-66 (47 percent) and the Toros finished 46-for-94 (48.9 percent). The Vipers and Toros play again at 5 p.m. today at the Cedar Park Center. *Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

Tulsa 66ers - Iowa Energy 116-108
Tulsa 66er guard Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, college: UAB) scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in a 116-108 victory over the previously unbeaten Iowa Energy Saturday night in Tulsa. The 66ers dominated the glass in the game, outrebounding Iowa 49-36 on the evening. Tulsa bolted out to a 65-58 halftime lead as Milsap and Ryan Reid led the way. Milsap had 13 points in the half and Reid, a 6'8' forward, had 8 points and 8 rebounds before the break. The 66ers extended their lead to 17 points at 86-69 with 3:20 remaining in the 3rd quarter on a layup by guard Zabian Dowdell. The Energy, who staged a 2nd half comeback the night before to beat Tulsa, scored the final seven points of the quarter to make the score 86-76 heading into the final stanza. Iowa continued their run as they outscored Tulsa 10-2 to open the 4th quarter, making the score 88-86. Guard Chris Lofton scored eight points in during the run for the Energy. After the two teams traded buckets, the 66ers went up by 101-98 on a Larry Owens layup with 3:38 remaining in the game. After two missed shots by the Energy and two turnovers by Tulsa, Energy star Othyus Jeffers scored to bring the visitors to within one point. After Owens was called for traveling, Jeffers was fouled and went to the free throw line with a chance to put Iowa ahead. After making the first shot, Jeffers second attempt rolled off the rim, leaving the score tied at 101-101 with 2:25 remaining in the game. With the game hanging in the balance, Tulsa went to Owens who drilled a 3-pointer from the top of the key to take the lead. A turnover by Energy guard Kyle Weaver gave Tulsa the ball back with under two minutes to play. Tulsa wing Robert Vaden missed a shot, but Milsap grabbed the offensive rebound to give the 66ers a new shot clock. After running down the shot clock, Dowdell drove the lane and scored to put Tulsa up by five. Iowa would get no closer than three points the rest of the way as Tulsa made all eight of their free throws in the final 0:28 of the game. Othyus Jeffers led Iowa with 31 points while Phoenix Suns assignee Gani Lawal (6'9''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) finished with 23 points. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Idaho Stampede - Texas Legends 114-117
Randy Livingston knows the time will come. Sooner or later, he will notch his first win as the coach of the Idaho Stampede. But after a 117-114 loss to the Texas Legends on Saturday night at Qwest Arena, Livingston will have to wait at least a few more days before he enjoys that first victory. For the second time in two nights, Idaho (0-3) held a comfortable lead in the second half before seeing it slip away. In a game that featured 17 lead changes, the Stampede enjoyed a nine-point cushion in the fourth quarter. But then Texas (2-1) got the hot hand. 'We've got to learn how to close out and win games … and have a killer instinct,' Livingston said. The loss spoiled the efforts of rookie forward Seth Tarver (6'5''-G/F-88, college: Oregon St.), who had 26 points and eight rebounds. Tarver, who attended the Portland Trail Blazers' training camp and was cut late in the preseason, has been a bright spot for Livingston early this season. 'He's just been workmanlike since he got to Boise,' Livingston said. 'He shot the ball extremely well.' Forward Walter Sharpe (6'9''-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: UAB) added a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Reno Bighorns - Bakersfield Jam 91-85
All five Reno starters finished in double figures Saturday night, as the Bighorns clawed their way to a 91-85 victory over the Bakersfield Jam in the Reno Events Center. The victory completes a weekend sweep for Reno over the Jam, and improves the Bighorns to 4-0 on the young season. Reno is now the lone undefeated team in the NBA Development League. Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) led the way for the Bighorns with 20 points and 12 assists. Nick Fazekas and Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jr. each chipped-in a double-double effort for Reno on the night. The Bighorns shot 15.4 percent (2-of-13) from the three-point range and 69.4 percent (25-of-36) from the charity stripe. Bakersfield was paced by a 24-point effort from Trey Johnson, who connected on 10-of-18 tries from the field. Brandon Wallace knocked down four three-point attempts on his way to 17 points. Reno was dominant in the paint on Saturday, outscoring the Jam 46-30. The Bighorns were also successful in the transition game, scoring 17 fast-break points. The first-place Bighorns complete their season-opening five-game homestand on Wednesday, Dec. 1 against the Idaho Stampede. Tip-time is set for 11 a.m. in the Reno Events Center. Tickets are on-sale now. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Skyforce - Wizards 95-98
Box-score will be available soon.

[Durbansandshark]

Sunday: Toros and BayHawks beat their rivals - Nov 29, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)

Austin Toros - Rio Grande Valley Vipers 116-109
The Austin Toros completed the weekend sweep of the the defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers with a 116-109 win Sunday at Cedar Park Center. The Vipers (1-2) trailed 24-15 after 9:05, but, went on a 13-3 run, powered in-part by five points from Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) and a three-pointer from Houston Rockets-assignee Patrick Patterson (6'9''-F-89, college: Kentucky), to close first quarter up 28-27. McNeal and Patterson finished tied with a team-high 22 points. Patterson also added 10 rebounds and two blocks while McNeal had five rebounds and four assists. The Vipers scored the first seven points of the second quarter to take a 36-28 lead until former-Viper Marucs Hubbard snapped the run with a three-pointer for the Toros (3-1). Hubbard finished with 11 points and five rebounds. The Vipers led 55-51 at halftime, but the Toros opened the third quarter on a 12-3 run, during which time Thomas Gardner hit a three-pointer to give the Toros their first lead since the first quarter at 60-58. The Vipers closed the third quarter on a 7-2 run on the power of two baskets by Richard Roby to get within 85-83. Roby finished with 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting. Lewis Clinch (6'3''-G-87, college: Georgia Tech) hit a pair of baskets as the Toros went on a 7-0 run mid-way through the fourth quarter to take a 103-96 lead. Clinch scored a game-high 26 points on 13-of-19 shooting. The Vipers return to action on Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Dr. Pepper Arena when they face the Texas Legends. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Ft.Wayne Mad Ants - Erie BayHawks 100-113
The Erie BayHawks soared past the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, 113-100. The visiting BayHawks swept the Mad Ants in this weekend's double header. It was all BayHawks the first two periods of play as the visiting team held a 62-44 lead going into the locker room. Toronto Raptors assignee Ed Davis scored 10 points and had three block shots in the first half. The BayHawks offense did not slow down as they extended the lead to 28 points early in the third. The Mad Ants made a late attempt at a comeback and cut the score down to 10 points halfway through the fourth but that was as close as they would get as the BayHawks were too much for the Ants to handle. The BayHawks finished with 7 players in double figures and were led by Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.) who finished with 21 points and 6 assists. Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) finished with 19 points and 9 rebounds and Nate Linehart contributed 15. The Mad Ants were led by Marvin Phillips Jr. who finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Chris Kramer contributed 14 points and Obie Muonelo had 13 coming off of the bench. Both teams move to 2-2 on the season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Kings assign Hassan Whiteside to D-League - Nov 30, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Sacramento Kings have assigned forward/center Hassan Whiteside (7'0''-F-89, college: Marshall) to the Reno Bighorns of the NBA Development League, Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie announced today. Whiteside was selected by Sacramento with the 33rd pick in the 2010 NBA Draft and has made one appearance with team this year, logging two minutes in the season-opening win over Minnesota (10/27/10). He represents the second assignment of a Kings player to the Bighorns, following Donte Greene in 2009. Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Raptors recall Ed Davis from D-League - Nov 30, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Toronto Raptors recalled first-round draft pick Ed Davis (6'10''-F-89, college: N.Carolina) from the Erie BayHawks of the NBA Development League on Monday. The six-foot-10, 225-pound forward is expected to rejoin the Raptors for practice Tuesday and be on the active roster for Wednesdays game versus Washington. Davis played in two games with the BayHawks, averaging 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 17.5 minutes. Chosen 13th overall by the Raptors this past summer, he was only cleared to resume playing last week after tearing the meniscus in his right knee before training camp started.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

[Durbansandshark]

Magic assign Daniel Orton to D-League - Dec 2, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Orlando Magic center Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky) was assigned to the New Mexico Thunderbirds, the Magics NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 13th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Orton, a rookie out of Kentucky.

Orton (6-10, 255) hasnt appeared in any games with the Magic this season, but averaged 3.2 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in five NBA Summer League games. Orlando selected Orton, an early entry candidate for the 2010 NBA Draft, in the first round (29th overall), making him one of five Kentucky players chosen in the first round. In one season at Kentucky, Orton averaged 3.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in 13.2 minutes per game, helping to lead the Wildcats to a 35-3 record and an Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Tournament. His 53 blocks in 38 games ranked fifth in the SEC.Orton joins the Thunderbirds in anticipation of the teams back-to-back home games against the Erie BayHawks on Friday, Dec. 3 and Saturday, Dec. 4.

Raptors call up first-round pick Davis - Dec 2, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Toronto Raptors recalled first-round draft pick Ed Davis (6'10''-F-89, college: N.Carolina) from the Erie BayHawks of the NBA Development League on Monday. The six-foot-10, 225-pound forward is expected to rejoin the Raptors for practice Tuesday and be on the active roster for Wednesday's game versus Washington. Davis played in two games with the BayHawks, averaging 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 17.5 minutes. Chosen 13th overall by the Raptors this past summer, he was only cleared to resume playing last week after tearing the meniscus in his right knee before training camp started.

Wednesday: Bighorns and Energy win - Dec 2, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Iowa E. - Sioux Falls S. 120-114
Guard Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) scored 32 points and pulled down 13 rebounds to lead the Iowa Energy past rival Sioux Falls 120-114 Wednesday night in Des Moines. Iowa jumped out to a 63-55 halftime lead as Weaver notched 18 points before the break. The Energy extended their lead to 92-74 at the end of the 3rd quarter as forward Michael Haynes tipped in a missed shot at the buzzer. Sioux Falls made a charge in the 4th quarter as a Chris McCray (6'5''-G-84, college: Maryland) narrowed the lead to four points late in the fourth after making three consecutive free throws. Iowa put the game away with a pair of free throws late to help maintain their lead in the NBA D-League's Eastern Conference. Forward Connor Atchley (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Texas) added 19 points and 6 rebounds for Iowa, while guard Curtis Stinson had 12 points, 8 rebounds and 10 assists. Sioux Falls was led by reserve Sean Marshall, who finished with 22 points. Miami HEAT assignee Dexter Pittman added 18 points and 10 rebounds on the night. Iowa shot 56.5% from the field on the night while holding Sioux Falls to just 42.9% from the field. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Reno Bighorns - Idaho S. 127-117
The Idaho Stampede allowed 36 fourth quarter points in losing their first road game of the season to the Reno Bighorns (5-0) 127-117 in the Reno Events Center on Wednesday afternoon. The Stampede (0-4) had three players go for 20 or more points, with Salim Stoudamire (6'1''-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Arizona) leading the way with 23 points on 8-of-13 shooting. Carlos Wheeler, seeing his first action as a Stampeder, added 20 points and seven rebounds and Luke Jackson (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Oregon) came off the bench to score 20 points, add a team-high six assists and make 10-of-11 free throws. Joining Wheeler in the starting lineup for his first ever game as a Stampeder was Dontell Jefferson, who had 15 points and five assists. Willie Jenkins scored double-digit points (14) for the fourth straight game off the bench. Reno was led by Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jr. (24 points, eight rebounds, five steals), Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) (23 points, 11 assists, seven rebounds) and Marcus Landry (21 points, 3-6 3FG) in the comeback win. The Stampede now head to Bakersfield, Calif. to play a three-game set with the Jam beginning Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. (MT). *Courtesy of www.kboi2.com

Flynn plans to go to D-League Friday - Dec 3, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Minnesota point guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) plans to report to the Timberwolves' development league affiliate in Sioux Falls, S.D., for a game on Friday as he works his way back from hip surgery. Flynn has yet to play in a game this season. He had surgery on his left hip in July and has gradually started ramping up his workouts over the past few weeks.

The second-year point guard has been dealing with expected body soreness as the intensity has increased, but is eager to return to the court to help his young team, which lost 13 of its first 17 games heading into a game against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.

Flynn plans to go to D-League Friday - Dec 3, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Minnesota point guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) plans to report to the Timberwolves' development league affiliate in Sioux Falls, S.D., for a game on Friday as he works his way back from hip surgery. Flynn has yet to play in a game this season. He had surgery on his left hip in July and has gradually started ramping up his workouts over the past few weeks.

The second-year point guard has been dealing with expected body soreness as the intensity has increased, but is eager to return to the court to help his young team, which lost 13 of its first 17 games heading into a game against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.

[Durbansandshark]

Thursday: Wins for Armor and 66ers - Dec 3, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Springfield A. - Maine RC 116-112
Terrence Williams' (6'6''-F-87, college: Louisville) Springfield Armor debut proved to be a memorable one. Williams' 16 point, 15 rebound, 13 assist performance led the Armor to a hard fought 116-112 victory over the rival Maine Red Claws Thursday night at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Williams dominated throughout the game, but he was at his best when it mattered most. With less than 2 1/2 minutes in the game and the Red Claws threatening to take the lead after tying the game at 99, Williams took over. He drove to the right and scored on a lay-up to give the Armor a 101-99 lead. Shortly thereafter, following a missed layup, Scottie Reynolds (6'2''-G-87, college: Villanova) intercepted the outlet pass and hit his former Big East foe Williams for an easy lay-in to extend the advantage. The rest of the game was controlled by the Armor's other standout Big East alum. Reynolds connected on several free throws down the stretch to ice the game for Springfield. 'When you put two Big East players on the floor together, they'll play well regardless,' said Williams. Williams and Reynolds had great chemistry all night, finding each other multiple times in crucial situations. 'He's a very smart player,' said Williams. 'It helped me because he can shoot and dish.' Reynolds finished with 26 points and 6 assists. The Armor led going into halftime, but the Red Claws made their move in the third. Springfield entered the third quarter with a 57-51 lead. With just over 7 minutes left in the quarter, the Red Claws pulled off a 7-0 run, which cut the lead to 2 at 63-61, forcing Dee Brown to call a timeout. After the timeout the roles were reversed as the Armor increased their lead to 70-61 with a 7-0 run of their own. Just as the Armor began to pull away, however, Maine responded once again. With 1:17 remaining in the quarter and the Red Claws trailing by 9, Jamar Smith sparked a 6-0 run. Smith made a beautiful pass in transition to DeShawn Sims for the slam, cutting the lead to 5. Then with 3 seconds remaining, Smith nailed a jumper from the wing to end the quarter trailing by 3 at 79-76. The rest of the game was a back-and-forth affair, but the Armor had just enough offensive firepower to hold off the Red Claws for the second time in three games this season. In addition to the stellar performances of Reynolds and Williams, Craig Brackins, recently assigned to the Armor from the Philadelphia 76ers, made an immediate impact, finishing with 16 points off the bench in his Armor debut. Vernon Goodridge (6'9''-F-84, college: La Salle) also played well for the Armor, scoring 13 points with 4 blocked shots. Maine was led by Mario West (6'5''-G-84, college: Georgia Tech), who scored 21 points. Jamar Smith had 18, while Chamberlain Oguchi dropped 17. The Armor improve to 3-2 on the season, while Maine falls to 2-3. The Armor will return to action on Saturday evening when they host the Fort Wayne Mad Ants at 7:00 p.m. at the MassMutual Center. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Tulsa 66ers - Austin T. 94-83
The Tulsa 66ers recorded their second straight victory of the season Thursday night with a 94-83 win over the Austin Toros inside the Tulsa Convention Center. Five 66ers scored in double figures, led by Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) and Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) each with 18, and Cole Aldrich posted eight points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. Tulsa's Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) recorded a double-double in his first game of the season after sitting out the first four due to injury, posting 13 points and 12 rebounds. Tweety Carter and Elijah Millsap each chipped in 10 points. 'I thought our guys played with great effort and energy from the beginning,' Tulsa 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts said. 'We've been giving up 107 points a game defensively and one of our goals tonight was to try to hold them under 100 and our guys really stepped up and did that.' The 66ers (3-2) recorded 19 assists on 34 made field goals. Tulsa guard Zabian Dowdell posted seven assists, a game high. Austin's (3-3) Marcus Cousin led the Toros with a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Also scoring in double figures was Vernon Hamilton with 18, Lewis Clinch with 14 and Thomas Gardner with 10. The 66ers held the Toros to 35 percent (31-89) shooting from the field, forced 20 turnovers and posted nine steals. Tulsa led 46-33 at halftime after holding the Toros to 13-44 (.295) shooting from the field. Austin, who trailed by as many as 19 in the third quarter, climbed back into the game at the conclusion of the third to cut the 66ers lead to five, 66-61. Next up, the 66ers hit the road to take on the Texas Legends on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Tulsa's next home game is Sunday, Dec. 5 against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at 4 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Friday's games (7) review - Dec 4, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Texas L. - Rio Grande 111-103
The Texas Legends used a huge third quarter outburst to run past the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, 111-103, on Friday night at Dr Pepper Arena, the team's fourth straight victory and second in a row at home. Antonio Daniels (6'4''-G-75, college: Bowling Green) came up with 22 points and 9 assists, while Justin Dentmon (5'11''-G-85, college: Washington) helped with 21 points and 8 boards in this victory. Dominique Jones, the Dallas Mavericks' top draft choice, scored 11 points for the Legends. In defeat, Patrick Patterson shined with 22 points and 9 rebs.

Utah F. - Austin T. 131-110
The Austin Toros faced a chilly reception from the Flash in a 131-110 defeat. Utah at one point in the game led by as many as 26 points, while Austin's biggest game lead was only 2 points. Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: La-Lafayette) paced Utah with 28 points. Bennett Davison (6'8''-F-75, college: Arizona) pounded the boards for the Flash with 12 rebounds. Michael Joiner and Kevin Palmer came off the bench to lead the Toros in scoring with 22 points each. Austin didn't help their cause, committing 18 turnovers to Utah's 10. The Toros continue their road stretch, facing Utah again in Orem on Sunday at 5 p.m.. They then travel to Sioux Falls to take on the Skyforce on Tuesday at 7 p.m. The team returns to Austin on Dec. 15, taking on Bakersfield at 7:30 p.m. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Maine RC - Ft.Wayne MA 99-105
Maine scored 43 points in the 4th quarter, but it was too little, too late. Fort Wayne used a strong first half to beat the Red Claws, 105-99. It was a 55-30 lead at halftime. Mario West (6'5''-G-84, college: Georgia Tech) led the Red Claws with 19 points. Maine will host Springfield on Sunday at the Portland Expo. *Courtesy of www.wgme.com

Dakota W. - Reno Bighorns 88-97
The Reno Bighorns extended their league-best record to 6-0 Friday night, as they used balanced scoring and a huge third quarter to defeat the Dakota Wizards, 97-88, in the Dakota Civic Center. With the game tied 52-52 at halftime, Reno pulled away by outscoring Dakota 25-11 in the third quarter. Beginning midway through the third, the ‘Horns used a 24-3 run to take a 20-point lead early in the fourth before Dakota would fight back to give the Bighorns a fourth-quarter scare. In the fourth, Dakota cut the Bighorns lead to four points with under three minutes to play, but Reno would hold on to win their sixth-straight contest to open the season. Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, college: Kansas) paced Reno with 18 points, while Nick Fazekas (6'11''-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) chipped in with 17. With all five starters registering double-figure point totals, the ‘Horns now have had at least five players score in double figures in every game this season. Renaldo Major and Chris Johnson paced Dakota with 17 points apiece. *Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

[Durbansandshark]

Sioux Falls S. - Iowa E. 103-113
The Iowa Energy overcame a six point halftime deficit to defeat the Sioux Falls Skyforce 113-103 Friday night in South Dakota. Iowa outscored Sioux Falls by 21 points in the 3rd quarter to break open a back and forth first half. Guard Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) led the Energy with 30 points including five 3-pointers. Center Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) added 21 points for Iowa, which moves to 6-1 on the season with the win. Sioux Falls used a 10-4 run at the end of the first half to take a 61-56 lead into the halftime break. Iowa responded in the 3rd by opening the quarter with a 16-6 run including a pair of Curtis Stinson jump shot to take a 72-67 lead at the 7:00 mark. After the teams traded several baskets, the Energy went on another run, this one 16-4, late in the quarter to stretch their lead to 91-75. Iowa outscored Sioux Falls 37-16 in the quarter. The home team, featuring Minnesota Timberwolves guard Johnny Flynn, would fight back to narrow the score to 106-100 with 3:37 left in the game. But Stinson responded by scoring the next four points of the game to give Iowa the win. Stinson finished with 16 points, 11 assists and 6 steals for Iowa. Sioux Falls was led by Miami HEAT assignee Dexter Pittman's 18 point, 15 rebound performance. Chris McCary led the Skyforce with 20 points while Flynn added 8 points and 9 assists on the night. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

New Mexico - Erie Bay H. 105-89
The New Mexico Thunderbirds (3-1) used a big fourth quarter to pull away from the Erie BayHawks (3-2) on Friday night and win by a score of 105-89. In the fourth quarter, the Thunderbirds outscored the BayHawks 30-17. Alan Anderson led all scorers with 28 points in the game and Shane Edwards chipped in with 22 points. After a close first quarter, the BayHawks led the Thunderbirds by two points, 24-22. Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.) led all scorers with eight points in the quarter, while Anderson led the T-Birds with 7 points on 3-for-4 shooting. Erie opened up the second quarter on an 11-4 run to and take a nine-point lead 35-26. The T-Birds answered with a 15-6 run of their own to close out the half and they trailed by two, 48-46 at the break. Anderson keyed the Thunderbirds run with nine points over the final five minutes. In third quarter, Anderson hit a three-pointer with 4:17 left that capped a 19-8 run and gave the Thunderbirds a 65-56 lead. They entered the final quarter leading 75-71. The Thunderbirds started the fourth quarter on a 14-4 run to open up a 14-point lead and pull away from the BayHawks for good. Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky), making his Thunderbirds debut, scored 12 points on 4-for-11 shooting and had 13 rebounds to go along with 4 assists in 30 minutes of action. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Bakersfield J. - Idaho S. 125-111
Idaho remains the only team in the NBA Development League without a win after the Stampede dropped a 125-111 decision on Friday night at Bakersfield. Coach Randy Livingston's team placed seven players in double figures, led by Carlos Wheeler (6'8''-F/C-78, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Campbellsville) 's 24 points and 12rebounds. Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) had 29 points for the Jam. *Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Timberwolves recall Jonny Flynn from D-League - Dec 5, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Minnesota Timberwolves have recalled guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) from Sioux Falls of the NBA Development League. Flynn played in one game for the Skyforce, totaling eight points, nine assists and a pair of steals in 25 minutes of action.
The second-year pro underwent surgery in late July to repair a labral tear and remove extra bone from his left hip. The operation and subsequent recovery had kept him out of the team's first 19 games of the season.

Flynn started all 81 games he played as a rookie last season, averaging 13.5 points, 4.4 assists and 2.4 rebounds. The former Syracuse star was selected by the Wolves with the sixth overall pick of the 2009 draft. Courtesy of www.thesunnews.com

Saturday's games (5) review - Dec 5, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Bakersfield J. - Idaho S. 110-103
Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) scored 24-points Saturday as the Bakersfield Jam outlasted the Idaho Stampede for the second straight night, 110-103, at the Jam Events Center. Marques Blakely's dunk and a pair of Jeremy Wise free throws in the waning seconds sealed the win. The Jam (3-4) shot 42.7 percent and was 32-for-75 from the floor, but was out rebounded 55-39. Bakersfield opened a 22-10 lead before Idaho stormed back to within 30-27 on Luke Jackson's buzzer beating layup that closed out the first quarter. The Stampede (0-6) took its first lead just two minutes into the second quarter, but the Jam went on a 16-9 run to lead 56-48 at the half. After exchanging baskets for most of third, Bakersfield opened up its largest margin, leading by 17 in the final minutes of the third period. Idaho's Eric Boateng (6'10''-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) finished with a double double, 19 points, and 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.bakersfield.com

Springfield A. - Ft.Wayne MA 124-130 OT
The Fort Wayne Mad Ants needed a late run to force the game to overtime. They carried that momentum into overtime to defeat the Springfield Armor, 130-124, Saturday night at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. With 3:30 remaining in the game, the Armor (3-3) held a 110-103 lead. But the Mad Ants (4-2) drained several threes to put them back in the game. 'This is a tough mental team,' said Mad Ants head coach Joey Meyer. 'I knew they would compete.' After forcing the game to overtime, the Mad Ants took command and never looked back, outscoring the Armor 8-2 to seal their second road victory in two days. Fort Wayne was led by Walker Russell, who scored 20 of his 31 points in the second half and overtime. '[I] was just being more aggressive and I was looking for my shot,' Russell said. The Mad Ants also got a big lift from their bench, particularly down the stretch. Chris Hunter (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Michigan) scored 22 points, while Corey Allmond (6'2''-G-88, college: Howard Col. (TX)) knocked down a big three pointer late in the fourth quarter. The Mad Ants also had to compensate for the loss of starting guard Chris Kramer, who suffered an injury just 17 seconds into the game while attempting to cover the Armor's Terrence Williams. The Armor were led once again by Terrence Williams, who posted his second triple double in as many games. Williams scored 32 points, pulled down 10 rebounds, and dished out 12 assists. No other NBA D-League player has recorded a triple-double this season. The Armor also got a near triple-double from Williams' college teammate, Jerry Smith. Smith notched 17 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and added 9 assists. Fort Wayne plays the Texas Legends next Saturday at home. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Sioux Falls S. - Reno Bighorns 91-84
The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Reno Bighorns 91-84 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Saturday night. Raymond Sykes (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Clemson) scored 11 of his season-high 17 points in the fourth quarter as the Skyforce held off the previously undefeated Bighorns. Sioux Falls (2-5) trailed for much of the first half before some back and forth action late in the second quarter. Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's), Jr.'s three-point play with 1:15 remaining in the second quarter fueled an 11-0 run by the Skyforce that bridged the second and third quarters. Reno (6-1) would not go away quietly as they cut the deficit to three points (77-74) with 6:40 in the fourth quarter after trailing by as many as 20 points midway through the third quarter. Sykes scored eight straight points late in the fourth quarter to help the Skyforce pick up their first home win of the young season. Wink Adams joined Sykes with 17 points followed by Mason, Jr. with 13. Anwar Ferguson added a season-high seven points on 3-of-3 field goals and an emphatic block that sparked a 12-2 run in the early stages of the third quarter. DJ Strawberry posted a game high 21 points to lead the Bighorns scoring attack. Aaron Miles had 14 points and eight assists followed by Marcus Landry with 12 points. Sioux Falls hosts Austin on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. CT. Reno returns home to face Rio Grande Valley on Friday at 7 p.m. PT. *Courtesy of www.ksfy.com

[Durbansandshark]

Texas L. - Tulsa 66ers 110-99
The Tulsa 66ers (3-3) cut a 20 point second half deficit down to three, 98-95, with four minutes remaining Saturday evening against the Texas Legends (5-1), but saw their rally fall short, dropping the game by a 110-99 final score in Frisco, Texas. Inside Dr. Pepper Arena, Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) recorded a double-double for Tulsa with 17 points and 12 rebounds, Zabian Dowdell (6'3''-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) scored 19 points and Cole Aldrich added nine points, six rebounds and one block. Williams, who missed the first four games of the season due to injury, posted his second straight double-double. Also posting double figures in scoring was Elijah Millsap and Larry Owens with 15 each and Jerome Dyson with 10. The Legends were led by Sean Williams (6'10''-F-86, college: Boston Coll.) and Dominique Jones (6'4''-G-88, college: S.Florida) with 19 and 18 points, respectively. Texas took advantage of 51 trips to the free throw line, connecting on 43 (.843). Tulsa outrebounded the Legends by a 37-34 margin in the first meeting between the two teams in D-League history. The 66ers will return to Tulsa to take on the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Sunday, Dec. 5 at 4 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. It will mark their third back-to-back set of the season and the first time matching up with RGV since the 2010 D-League finals last season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

New Mexico - Erie Bay H. 96-83
The Erie BayHawks westward trip didn't get any better on Saturday as they suffered their second loss in as many nights to New Mexico 96-83. The BayHawks entered this weekend's series with a 3-1 record. The Thunderbirds (4-1) outscored the BayHawks 24-15 in the first quarter and led 52-41 at halftime. New Mexico's Dar Tucker (6'4''-F-88, college: De Paul) led all scorers with 26 points while Anthony Richardson (6'7''-F-83, college: Florida St.) contributed 14 points. Ivan Johnson, who finished with 18 points and 12 rebounds, led three players in double figures for the BayHawks. Tasmin Mitchell and Dawan Robinson had 16 points each. The BayHawks struggled shooting the ball as they hit just 27-of-72 shots from the field including 3-of-19 3-point attempts. The BayHawks (3-2) will play at Utah on Tuesday at 9 p.m. before returning home for a pair of games against Maine on Friday and Saturday. Erie lost to New Mexico 105-89 Friday night. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Sunday's games review - Dec 6, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Iowa E. - Dakota W. 93-85
Point guard Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) saved his best for last as the veteran made jump shots on three consecutive possessions in the finals minutes of the Iowa Energy's 93-85 victory over the Dakota Wizards Sunday in Des Moines. Iowa, which had defeated Dakota three times already this season, appeared to be on its way to an easy victory as an Othyus Jeffers (6'5''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Robert Morris) dunk with 4:36 left in the 3rd quarter put the Energy up 66-49. Dakota had other thoughts as the Wizards opened the 4th quarter on a 12-2 run to cut the Iowa lead to 74-69. A Michael Anderson jump shot brought Dakota to within two points with only 2:43 remaining, setting up Stinson's late heroics. With the game in the balance, Stinson responded by scoring seven consecutive points for the Energy, including three consecutive mid-range jumpers to give Iowa a commanding 90-83 lead with only 22.1 seconds remaining. Dakota's Renaldo Major would cut the lead to five on a jump shot, but Stinson added a free throw and Othyus Jeffers rebounded a missed free throw and scored in the final seconds to seal the victory for Iowa. Stinson and Jeffers led Iowa with 18 points each. Center Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) added 15 points and 9 rebounds. Dakota was led by Chris Johnson, who finished with 23 points and 11 rebounds. The loss drops the Wizards to 1-6 on the season. The Energy shot 49.3% from the field while holding Dakota to 37.9% on the night. The Wizards struggled from long range, finishing 1-14 from 3-point range on the night. *Courtesy of http://boxscorenews.com

Tulsa 66ers - Rio Grande 105-117
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers jumped out to 40-23 lead at the end of the first quarter en route to a 117-105 victory over the Tulsa 66ers Sunday at the Tulsa Convention Center. The win snaps a three-game losing streak for the Vipers (2-3). The Vipers opened the game on a 9-0 run capped by a three-pointer from Antonio Anderson. 2:30 into the game. After a timeout, the 66ers (3-4) scored the next six points and kept the game close for the next 5:09, when Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) hit a free throw to pull the 66ers with 21-19. The Vipers, however, outscored the 66ers 19-2 over the final 4:21 of the first quarter. The Vipers extended their lead to 19 points at 64-45 with 3:36 remaining in the second quarter after Houston Rockets-assignee Patrick Patterson hit a lay-up. In his first game back in Tulsa after playing for the 66ers last season, Mustafa Shakur hit a lay-up and a free throw at the 6:38 mark of the third quarter to give the Vipers their largest lead to that point at 84-62. Shakur finished with 17 points, six rebounds, six assists and two steals. Jerel McNeal hit one of two free throws with 1:19 remaining in the third to give the Vipers a 97-73 lead, their largest of the game. The 66ers opened the fourth on a 18-5 run to climb within 104-93 midway through the quarter, but that's as close as they got. The Vipers were led in scoring by Stanley Robinson (6'9''-F-88, college: Connecticut), who finished 22 points on 8-of-10 shooting and five rebounds. The 66ers were led in scoring by Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut), who scored 23 points. The Vipers return to action on Tuesday for their annual Kids Day game at 10:30 a.m. against the New Mexico Thunderbirds at State Farm Arena. Doors open at 9:30. and 2.4 rebounds and 8.2 minutes. Robinson played in 126 career games during his four years at the University of Connecticut, averaging 9.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.03 blocks and 26.3 minutes. He helped the Huskies reach the NCAA Final Four in 2009. Swann averaged 7.3 points, 2.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 15.3 minutes in three games off the bench. *Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

Maine RC - Springfield A. 119-111
The Springfield Armor have made significant progress over last year's cellar-dwelling maiden voyage. They still have a way to go. At least half a court's length. Despite an offensive show by Terrence Williams (6'6''-F-87, college: Louisville) (36 points) and Craig Brackins (6'10''-F-87, college: Iowa St.) (30), the Armor's backcourt deficiencies led to Springfield's 119-111 loss to the Maine Red Claws before 3,045 at the Portland Expo. 'Defensively, we were just not communicating,' said Armor point guard Scottie Reynolds. 'They knocked down some big shots when we didn't do our correct assignments. They did a great job of executing, and taking care of our weaknesses.' Springfield coach Dee Brown saw things the same way. 'We didn't get any stops,' Brown said. 'I think it was the first time all year out of the seven games that we didn't get a lot of consecutive stops. When you're down, one thing you can't afford to do is swap baskets.' *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Austin T. - Utah F. 98-106
The Utah Flash defeated the Austin Toros Sunday night at Cedar Park Center in a 48-minute game of tug of war. Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: La-Lafayette) led the Utah charge by scoring 37 points in the 106-98 victory. The win kept the Flash perfect against the Toros this season and pushed their overall record a game above five hundred at 4-3. The Toros started the game on fire by shooting 100-percent from behind the arc in the first quarter and jumping out to a 30-18 lead. The Flash responded by outscoring the Toros 28-20 in the second quarter. Playing relentless on offense and shooting 86-percent from the free throw line, the Flash fought hard to keep the lead out of the Toro's grasp. But the Toro's would not be stopped with recent addition to the team, Eric Dawson, responding with five defensive rebounds allowing the Toro's to maintain their lead. The Flash caught up with the Toros tying the score early in the third. Trailing the Toros for the majority of the second half, the Flash were persistent throughout, tying the score four times. The Flash ended the game strong with a 10-0 run. Utah's Green led all scorers with 37 points, 24 of which were scored in the second half. Utah's Green was followed by Andre Ingram (6'3''-G-85, college: American) (18), Bennet Davis (14), Brian Hamilton (14) and Brandon Costner (9). Lewis Clinch (17) led the Toros in points scored, shooting 50 percent from the three-point line. Clinch was followed by Michael Joiner (13), Lance Thomas (13), Eric Dawson (12) and Thomas Gardner (12). Carldell 'Squeaky' Johnson returned to play after missing four games due to an ankle injury scoring 10 points and nine assists. Newly acquired guard Jermaine Beal (Vanderbilt) played 20 minutes adding three points and three assists in his debut with the Toros. The Toros (3-5) will face off with the Sioux Falls Skyforce and the Utah Flash (4-3) will play the Erie BayHawks on Tuesday, December 7. *Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

[Durbansandshark]

Magic recall Daniel Orton from D-League - Dec 6, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The New Mexico Thunderbirds announced today that the Orlando Magic have recalled power forward, Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky) from the T-Birds. Orton played in two games with the Thunderbirds over the weekend and averaged 10.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists. He did not play in the second half of his second game with the Thunderbirds on Saturday night.

Orton was the Magics first round selection (29th overall) in the 2010 draft out of the University of Kentucky. He played one season for Kentucky averaging 3.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 13.2 minutes per game for a team that went to the Elite Eight in the 2010 NCAA Tournament. Orton played in five summer league games for the Orlando Magic and averaged 3.2 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. He has yet to play a regular season game for the Magic.

Thunder recall Cole Aldrich from D-League - Dec 7, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Oklahoma City Thunder Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti announced today that the team has recalled center Cole Aldrich (6'11''-C-88, college: Kansas) from the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League. Aldrich appeared in five games (five starts) for the 66ers and averaged 7.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.6 blocked shots in 27.4 minutes. Aldrich has joined the Thunder in Chicago for tonights 7:00 PM game against the Bulls at the United Center.

Jam routs Idaho, 123-94 - Dec 7, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Bakersfield J. - Idaho S. 123-94
Jeremy Wise (6'3''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) made his first eight shots, including five 3-pointers, finishing with 29 points to lead the Bakersfield Jam to a 123-94 victory over the Idaho Stampede on Monday night at the Jam Events Center. Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) finished with 18 points and 11 assists, and Drew Naymick (6'11''-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International) had 14 points and 11 rebounds for Bakersfield, which shot 49.3 percent from the floor and made 13 from 3-point range. Brandon Wallace had 16 points and Kenny Taylor scored 15. The teams combined for 87 free throw attempts. *Courtesy of www.bakersfield.com

Nets recall Terrence Williams from NBDL - Dec 8, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The New Jersey Nets on Tuesday recalled swingman Terrence Williams (6'6''-F-87, college: Louisville) from Springfield (Mass.) of the NBA Development League. Williams was sent down last month, after some lateness violations and other disagreements with the club.
In three games with the Armor, Williams, a former first-round pick out of Louisville, averaged 28 points, 11.3 rebounds, 10.7 assists, and 1.3 steals in 41.7 minutes. He recorded two triple-doubles, while topping 30 points twice. Williams has played in eight games with the Nets, averaging 6.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 19.9 minutes.

Courtesy of www.sportingnews.com

Antoine Walker joins D-League team Idaho Stampede - Dec 8, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Former Boston Celtics All-Star Antoine Walker (6'9''-F-75, college: Kentucky) has signed on to play for the Idaho Stampede of the NBA Development League.

Walker, 34, is a veteran of 12 NBA seasons, but has not played in the league since 2008. Memphis waived Walker during the 2008-09 season, and the forward went on to play in a Puerto Rican league. Walker earned more than $100 million from his NBA contracts, but has recently gone through massive financial struggles. According to numerous reports, he filed for bankruptcy earlier this year and got in legal trouble for writing bad checks in Las Vegas casinos. Walker averaged 17.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 3.5 assists during his NBA career with Boston, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami and Minnesota. He was named an All- Star three times during his time with the Celtics (1996-2003), and won an NBA title with the Heat in 2006.

Walker played with Stampede assistant coach Greg Minor on the Celtics from 1996-99.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

[Durbansandshark]

Tuesday: Wins for BayHawks, Vipers and Toros - Dec 8, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Utah F. - Erie Bay H. 82-102
Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) scored 20 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to help the Erie BayHawks end a two-game losing streak with a 102-82 rout of the Utah Flash at the McKay Events Center on Tuesday night. Johnson was one of five BayHawks to score in double figures and one of three to record a double-double. Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89) had 16 points and 11 rebounds, and Solomon Alabi (7'1''-C-88, college: Florida St.) added 12 points and 11 rebounds for Erie (4-3), which outrebounded Utah 47-34. Cedric Jackson scored 19 points and dished out seven assists for the 'Hawks, and Nate Linhart added 10 points. Erie was playing the final game of a three-game road trip after they lost a pair to the New Mexico T-Birds during the weekend. The 'Hawks return home for a two-game weekend series against the Maine Red Claws on Friday and Saturday at Tullio Arena. The BayHawks never trailed Tuesday as Eyenga scored four points to help Erie open the game with a 7-0 run. Erie scored the first 13 points of the second half to take a 62-36 lead and put the game out of reach. Brandon Costner scored a game-high 22 points for the Flash (4-4). Orien Greene added 20 points. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Rio Grande - New Mexico 95-88
A few jolts - three to be exact - sparked some energy into what had been a listless second-half effort by the Rio Grande Valley Vipers as they finished strong to post a 95-88 victory over New Mexico on Tuesday at State Farm Arena. Mustafa Shakur (6'3''-G-84, college: Arizona) led the Vipers with 19 points. Patterson had 16 points and 11 rebounds. Harris had 16 points, McNeal 11 points and Patrick Sullivan 10 points. Shane Edwards (6'7''-F-87, college: UALR) finished 20 points after scoring 12 in the first quarter for New Mexico. Alan Anderson had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Jason Horton had 11 assists and seven points. The game was played before a record-crowd of 6,782 on 'Kids Day.' The previous record to watch a Vipers game at State Farm Arena was 6,198 on the night they clinched the NBA Development League championship last April. *Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

Sioux Falls S. - Austin T. 121-126
The Austin Toros defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 126-121 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Tuesday night in front of a kid-heavy crowd of 3,228 fans on YMCA Night. Both teams recorded season-highs in points but it was Austin that came out on top thanks to 14 fourth-quarter points from Cardell 'Squeaky' Johnson. The game remained close throughout the first half as neither team led by more than four points in a half that saw 12 lead changes and eight ties. Sioux Falls (2-6) went into halftime with a slim three-point lead (60-57). Sioux Falls gained momentum early in the second half as they went ahead 74-65 after two free throws by Chris McCray. The lead was quickly erased as Austin (4-5) went on an 11-2 spurt to tie the game at 76 apiece midway through the third quarter. The game was tied at 92 after three quarters before Johnson, who was scoreless through three quarters, took over in the final half of the fourth quarter as he scored 14 points to help Austin snap a four-game slide. Lance Thomas (6'8''-F-88, college: Duke) paced the Toros with a season-high 23 points on 10-of-12 field goals. Eric Dawson (6'9''-F-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Midwestern St.) added 21 points and 12 rebounds off the bench while Thomas Gardner chipped in with 17 points. Raymond Sykes posted a season-high 25 points behind 9-of-12 shooting from the field. Miami HEAT assignee Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas) recorded his third double-double in five games with 15 points and 10 rebounds while Anthony Harris (6'2''-G-85, agency: N.E.T.) added a season-high 16 points in a reserve role. Sioux Falls returns to action this weekend with back-to-back home games against Tulsa on Friday and Saturday night at 7 p.m. CT. Austin travels to Springfield, Mass. to tangle with the Armor on Friday at 6 p.m. CT and Saturday at 11 a.m. CT. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Timberwolves send Jonny Flynn back to D-League - Dec 9, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Minnesota Timberwolves today announced the club has reassigned second-year guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) to the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League. Flynn will re-join the Skyforce following Thursday's Wolves practice and is expected to play in both their Friday and Saturday night games against Tulsa.

Flynn was previously assigned to Sioux Falls on Dec. 1, where he tallied eight points, nine assists and two steals in 25 minutes of action during the Skyforces game against Iowa on Dec. 3. He was recalled to the Timberwolves the following day.

The sixth overall pick by Minnesota in last years draft, Flynn started each of the 81 games he appeared in as a rookie last season. He averaged 13.5 points, 2.4 rebounds and 4.4 assists as a rookie before missing the season finale with the hip injury that ultimately required offseason surgery. He finished his first NBA season ranked 5th among the leagues rookies in scoring (13.5 ppg), 4th in free-throw accuracy (82.6%), 5th in assists (4.4 apg) and 7th in steals (1.01 spg).

Flynn is yet to appear in a game for the Wolves this season after undergoing offseason surgery on his left hip on July 27. Per NBA rules, a first- or second-year player can be assigned to the teams D-League affiliate a maximum of three times in a season.

Trail Blazers assign Luke Babbitt to Idaho Stampede - Dec 9, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Portland Trail Blazers forward Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada) was assigned to the Idaho Stampede, Portland's NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 15th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Babbitt, a rookie out of Nevada-Reno.

Babbitt (6-9, 225), has appeared in eight regular season games for the Trail Blazers, who acquired him on a draft-night deal with Minnesota. Selected by the Timberwolves in the first round (16th overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, Babbitt averaged 14.2 points and 2.8 rebounds with Portland in five NBA Summer League games.

An early entry candidate for the 2010 NBA Draft, Babbitt averaged 19.4 points and 8.1 rebounds in 68 games over two seasons at Nevada-Reno. As a sophomore, Babbitt averaged 21.9 points and 8.9 rebounds, was named the Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year and earned AP All-America Honorable Mention honors.

Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

[Durbansandshark]

Trail Blazers assign Luke Babbitt to Idaho Stampede - Dec 9, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Portland Trail Blazers forward Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada) was assigned to the Idaho Stampede, Portland's NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 15th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Babbitt, a rookie out of Nevada-Reno.

Babbitt (6-9, 225), has appeared in eight regular season games for the Trail Blazers, who acquired him on a draft-night deal with Minnesota. Selected by the Timberwolves in the first round (16th overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, Babbitt averaged 14.2 points and 2.8 rebounds with Portland in five NBA Summer League games.

An early entry candidate for the 2010 NBA Draft, Babbitt averaged 19.4 points and 8.1 rebounds in 68 games over two seasons at Nevada-Reno. As a sophomore, Babbitt averaged 21.9 points and 8.9 rebounds, was named the Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year and earned AP All-America Honorable Mention honors.

Wednesday: Stampede and Vipers celebrate - Dec 9, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Idaho S. - Dakota W. 83-80
The Idaho Stampede (1-7) won their first game of the season with an 83-80 comeback victory against the Dakota Wizards (1-7) in Qwest Arena Wednesday night. Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada), assigned from the Portland Trail Blazers, led the Stampede with 19 points, along with three other Stampeders who scored in double-digits. Lance Hurdle (6'2''-G-87, college: Miami (FL)) recovered a loose ball with 6.6 seconds left to cement the win for the Stampede. Luke Jackson (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Oregon) contributed to the last quarter scoring drive with 13 points, 10 in a row to end the game. With the Stampede down by seven, Antoine Walker made his Stampede debut with 5:20 in the first quarter. The Wizards led by as many as 13 points, but were held to 14 in the final quarter and the Stampede took the lead with 1:17 remaining. The Wizards' Chris Johnson led his team with 25 points and 13 rebounds, topping three other Wizards who also had more than 10. Coach Livingston was happy about the team's performance, saying, 'We've got to hang our hat on defense, and tonight we did that.' *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Rio Grande - New Mexico 107-91
Houston Rockets-assignee Patrick Patterson recorded his third double-double of the season with a career-high 24 points and a career-high 14 rebounds as the defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers beat the New Mexico Thunderbirds 107-91 on Wednesday at State Farm Arena in front of a crowd of 3,788. The Vipers (4-3) are now winners of three in a row. The Thunderbirds (4-3) jumped out to an 11-0 lead in the opening 1:47. Antonio Anderson hit a free throw and Patrick Sullivan hit a lay-up under the 10-minute mark to get the Vipers (3-3) on the board for the first time in the game. The Thunderbirds increased their lead to 17-5, and then 22-9, but Richard Roby hit a three-pointer at the 5:27 mark as the Vipers outscored the Thunderbirds 16-8 over the rest of the first quarter. The Vipers opened the second quarter on an 8-2, capped by an alley-oop to Mickell Gladness that gave the Vipers their first lead of the game at 33-32 at the 10:07 mark. The Thunderbirds responded with a 16-3 run to take a 48-36 lead mid-way through the second quarter. The Vipers closed the quarter on a 16-7 run to climb within 55-52. Patterson hit a jumper to give the Vipers the lead back 58-57 with 9:31 remaining in the third quarter. It turned into a back-and-forth game from there, with Garrett Temple hitting a three-pointer early in the fourth quarter to give the Vipers the lead for good. Mustafa Shakur followed with a lay-up the next time down the court to make it 82-78 Vipers. The Thunderbirds were led in scoring by Shane Edwards (6'7''-F-87, college: UALR), who scored 33 points while hitting 17-of-21 free throws. Alan Anderson (6'6''-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) scored 19 points as well. The Vipers return to action on Friday at 9:00 p.m. at the Reno Events Center when they face the Reno Bighorns. Notes: Before the game, Antonio Anderson was honored with his 2010 NBA Development League championship ring. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Raptors recall rookie Solomon Alabi - Dec 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Toronto Raptors recalled rookie Solomon Alabi (7'1''-C-88, college: Florida St.) from the Erie BayHawks of the NBA Development League on Thursday.

Alabi averaged 8.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 22.7 minutes during seven games with the BayHawks. The 7-foot-1 centre was tied for second in the league in blocked shots. He registered his first double-double during a game on Tuesday (12 points, 11 rebounds).

Part of it is we want to keep in touch with him, have him work with our coaches and have him be up here with us and with the team and not to lose that connection with the team that he has here, said said Raptors head coach Jay Triano after practice on Thursday.
The idea to go down there was to go down and play in games, which he wouldnt of had the opportunity to do up here and get minutes and see where he is. The team he was with is a smaller team and so much of the game down there is small so his minutes werent high and we just figured at this point it was better to have him come back and work with our team and be available to help us practice and be thrown into the game if he has to be.

The Raptors host the Denver Nuggets on Friday. Courtesy of http://sports.nationalpost.com

Charlotte Bobcats assign Sherron Collins to Maine Red Claws - Dec 10, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Charlotte Bobcats guard Sherron Collins (5'11''-G-87, college: Kansas) was assigned to the Maine Red Claws, Charlotte's NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 17th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Collins, a rookie out of Kansas.

Collins (5-11, 205) has appeared in 12 regular season games for the Bobcats, who signed him as an undrafted free agent. Collins averaged 12.5 points and 2.8 assists for Charlotte in four 2010 NBA Summer League games.

The winningest basketball player in Kansas history, Collins helped lead the Jayhawks to 130 victories over four years, including the 2008 NCAA National Championship. In 143 games, Collins averaged 13.2 points and 3.9 assists, and was a consensus All-American as a junior and senior.

Collins joins the Red Claws in anticipation of the team's back-to-back games at Erie on Friday, Dec. 10, and Saturday, Dec. 11. Bobcats fans can keep track of Collins and the Red Claws by logging onto NBA.com/dleague to watch every game live, online, for free.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

[Durbansandshark]

Indiana Pacers not big on the NBDL even with Ft. Wayne in their state repping it:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/02/pacers-dont-see-value-in-d-league/

Toronto's rookie Ed Davis doesn't want to return to the NBDL ever again:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/02/ed-davis-on-d-league-i-never-want-to-go-back-down-there-again/

In his NBDL debut, Terrence Williams scores a triple double for Springfield.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/03/terrence-williams-nets-triple-double-in-nba-d-league-debut/

Daniel Orton returns to Orlando after his knee injury:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/06/daniel-orton-returns-from-nba-d-league-after-another-knee-injury/

Bakersfield Jam hosts Idaho Stampede:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/06/bakersfield-jam-host-idaho-stampede/

New Jersey brings back Terrence Williams:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/07/nets-recall-terrence-williams-from-nba-d-league/
Sent him to Springfield because of his repeated tardiness which will be harmful for the league, not just for New Jersey's cred and fight back to respectability:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/26/nets-all-wrong-in-terrence-williams-demotion-to-d-league/

Portland's Luke Babbitt joins Idaho:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/08/portlands-luke-babbitt-to-join-d-leagues-idaho-stampede/

Johnny Flynn leaves Minnesota for Sioux City:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/08/jonny-flynn-reassigned-to-nba-d-leagues-sioux-falls/

Charlotte's Sherron Collins goes to Maine;
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/08/sherron-collins-next-stop-is-d-leagues-red-claws/

Though a little rusty, Antoine Walker was productive in his NBDL 26-minute debut to score 13 with Idaho against Dakota Wizards.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/09/antoine-walker-solid-in-d-league-debut/

Rashad McCants' time with the Texas Legends lasted 56 minutes and leaves to play in China. His time associated with the Mavericks organization as a whole was rocky from the start. Never mind he planned to donate much of his Legends salary to charity.
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/09/rashad-mccants-leaves-d-league-for-china/
However, his Chinese pro prospects with Liaoning Panpan just fell through:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/11/rashad-mccants-deal-with-chinese-team-falls-through-shaky-care/

Byron Mullens returns to Tulsa:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/10/byron-mullens-heads-back-to-tulsa-and-d-league/

Former UCONN Stanley Robinson suffered a staph infection that was, thankfully, caught early when hospitalized so it would not jeopardize his pro career:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/11/stanley-robinson-hospitalized-due-to-staph-infection/

Even when Sacramento sent 7-foot rookie Hassan Whiteside down to the Reno Bighorns, he struggles over there too:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/11/closer-look-at-hassan-whitesides-d-league-struggles/

Memphis' DeMarre Carroll goes up to Dakota:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/14/demarre-carroll-assigned-to-d-leagues-dakota-wizards-by-grizzli/

Utah Flash and Idaho Stampede swap four players in a trade:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/29/d-league-teams-swap-prospects-in-four-player-trade/

[Durbansandshark]

DeMarre Carroll goes to Dakota:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/14/demarre-carroll-assigned-to-d-leagues-dakota-wizards-by-grizzli/

As does Mike Hall:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/16/mike-hall-former-washington-wizard-acquired-by-dakota-of-nba-d/

The NBDL is not as bad and ardous as the likes of Eric Davis makes it out to be. Otherwise, it would like the ABA: something unprofessionally run:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/15/life-in-the-d-league-not-as-difficult-as-young-raptors-suggest/

Could Courtney Sims replace Joakim Noah in Chicago?
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/16/could-d-leagues-courtney-sims-be-possible-joakim-noah-replaceme/

Jeff Adrien, a Golden St. Warriors castoff, joins Erie:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/17/jeff-adrien-golden-state-warriors-castoff-joins-nba-d-league/

Memphis isn't giving up on Hasheem Thabeet being one of the best NBA centers to come out of Africa:
http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/12/21/hasheem-thabeet-no-problem-with-another-nba-d-league-stint/

[Durbansandshark]

Mad Ants to regain services of Oliver Lafayette - Dec 17, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Mad Ants are bringing back guard Oliver Lafayette (6'2''-G-84, college: Houston), the leader of their late season rally last season. Lafayette, whose late season play earned him a callup to the Boston Celtics, hopes to play in the games in Tulsa Thursday and Friday nights if he can gain clearance from FIBA from his contract with the Serbian team Partizan Belgrade that recently released him. Lafayette averaged over 17 points and six assists last season in Fort Wayne. Courtesy of www.indianasnewscenter.com

Mad Ants fall in OT to Tulsa - Dec 17, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Tulsa 66ers - Ft.Wayne MA 100-93 OT
The Tulsa 66ers (6-4) prevailed in a defensive battle Thursday evening against the Fort Wayne Mad Ants (5-4) and Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) broke the 66ers individual rebounding record in a 100-93 final score in overtime inside the Tulsa Convention Center. The 66ers forced 30 Mad Ant turnovers and connected on 28-30 free-throws to seal their third straight win. 'It was a grind-it-out game,' 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts said. 'Both teams were just trying to find a way to win. Neither team had its best stuff, but we grinded it out and I'm really proud of our guys.' Notching double-doubles for Tulsa was Williams with 12 points and 21 rebounds, including 10 offensive, and Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: ORU) with 10 points and 10 boards. Williams' rebound total set a 66ers record, breaking his previous mark of 19 last season. Also scoring in double figures for the 66ers were Larry Owens (19), Elijah Millsap (14), Robert Vaden (13), Ryan Reid (12) and Tweety Carter (10). Fort Wayne was led by Marvin Phillips (6'6''-G/F-83, college: Claflin) with 21 points and 19 rebounds. Also in double figures for the Mad Ants was Roderick Wilmont with 19, Chris Hunter with 17 and Darnell Lazare with 16. *Courtesy of www.wane.com

Maine RC - Idaho S. 105-99
Beloved former Boston Celtics star Antoine Walker (6'9''-F-75, college: Kentucky) brought his comeback story to Maine on Thursday night. But the Maine Red Claws held off the visiting Idaho Stampede 105-99 shutting down the former NBA star in the game's final minute at the Portland Expo. Walker flashed his old game at times and scored 25 points, but he bounced a last minute 3-point attempt off the rim that would have tied the game at 100. He later turned the ball over with 22.5 seconds left with the score at 103-99. The win was a step in the right direction for Maine, which snapped a two-game losing streak and upped their record to 4-6. Ball movement hadn't been sharper and six players scored in double digits. DeShawn Sims (6'8''-F-88, college: Michigan) put up a team-high 24, Tiny Gallon scored 16 while battling with Walker under the basket. Maine held more than a 10-point lead for the majority of the game until a 13-0 run by Idaho to start the fourth quarter drew the Stampede even at 84 apiece. The Red Claws pushed through. *Courtesy of www.kjonline.com

Friday's games (7) review - Dec 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Rio Grande - Bakersfield J. 111-99
The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers beat the Bakersfield Jam 111-99 on Friday in front of a crowd of 4,400 to move to 4-0 at home this season. The Vipers (6-4) jumped out to an 11-3 lead in the opening four minutes. Mouhammad Faye (6'9''-F-85, college: SMU), making his first start of the season, had five points and three rebounds during the run. The Vipers poured it on from there, and led by as many as 22 in the first half. Faye finished with 12 points, 11 rebounds and two blocked shots for his first career double-double. The Jam (6-6) outscored the Vipers 32-23 in the third quarter as Trey Johnson scored 13 of his 25 points and former-Viper Kenny Taylor (2007-08 season) hit four of his five three-pointers while scoring 14 of his 17 points. The Vipers held Johnson to four points and Taylor to zero while outscoring the Jam 21-17 in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. The Vipers were led in scoring by adidas player of the game Patrick Sullivan (6'9''-C-88, college: SE Louisiana), who scored a career-high 23 points to go with seven rebounds and a career-high five blocked shots. Richard Roby contributed 18 points while Terrel Harris finished with 15 points. Marqus Blakely played well for the Jam, scoring 18 points. The Vipers and Jam play again on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. in Hidalgo. *Courtesy of www.valleycentral.com

Iowa E. - Erie Bay H. 104-103
Forward Othyus Jeffers (6'5''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Robert Morris) scored with seven seconds remaining in the game to give the Iowa Energy a thrilling 104-103 victory over the Erie BayHawks Friday night in Des Moines. Erie jumped out to a 53-48 halftime lead behind a strong start from Cleveland Cavalier assignee Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89) who had 11 points before the break. Iowa rallied in the 3rd quarter as the Energy outscored Erie 33-19 in the quarter, including 13 points from guard Curtis Stinson. A Courtney Sims free throw gave the Energy a commanding 81-72 lead heading into the final stanza. Erie opened the 4th quarter with a 10-3 run, capped by a Nate Linhart 3-pointer to cut the Energy lead to two points. The two teams traded baskets before a quick Energy spurt gave the home team a 100-93 lead with only 2:54 remaining in the game. Erie's responded with a Kyle Goldcamp bucket and a 3-pointer by Eyenga to narrow the lead to two once again. A pair of free throw by Jeffers gave Iowa a 102-98 lead with 1:13 remaining in the game. Erie's Cedric Jackson drew a foul on Jeffers, and made the first free throw, but missed the second. BayHawks forward Tasmin Mitchell grabbed the rebound and found Linhart open under the hoop for a layup to cut the lead to 102-101 with under a minute left. Iowa Jeffers' then lost the ball to Mitchell, who fed Cedric Jackson for a break-away layup to give visitors a 103-102 lead. After a Jeffers miss, Sims fouled Erie big man Jeff Adrien with 35.9 seconds remaining. Adrien missed both free throws giving Iowa the ball down by one point. With just 24.2 seconds remaining, Stinson missed a leaning jump shot that was rebounded by Eyenga, who was called for traveling, giving the Energy possession of the ball. After an Energy timeout, Stinson missed again, but corralled his own rebound. The Energy point guard then found Chris Lofton open for a 3-pointer, but his shot missed short with 8.9 seconds remaining. With the ball being fought for, Jeffers emerged from the pack and made an easy layup to give the Energy a 104-103 lead with 7.0 seconds on the clock. After an Erie timeout, Cedric Jackson found an open Eyenga on the left wing. Eyenga's 3-pointer bounced off the front of the rim as the horn sounded, giving Iowa the victory. Stinson finished with 22 points and 12 assists while Jeffers finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds. Erie was led by Jackson's 15 point, 14 assist night while Linhart added 20 points and 12 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

New Mexico - Reno Bighorns 96-89
The Bighorns took an 81-68 lead into the fourth quarter, but the New Mexico Thunderbirds outscored Reno 28-8 in the final frame to escape with a 96-89 victory Friday night in the Santa Ana Star Center. The huge fourth quarter handed Reno its second-straight loss against New Mexico and third-straight defeat overall. Nick Fazekas (6'11''-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) led the 'Horns with 19 points, but the Thunderbirds' late-game defense proved to be the difference. New Mexico was led by Dar Tucker (6'4''-F-88, college: De Paul), who poured in 25 points off the bench. Shane Edwards added 16 points and 12 rebounds for the T-Birds, who salvaged the win despite shooting just 38.4% from the field. The Bighorns got double-doubles from Patrick Ewing, Jr. (15 points, 12 rebounds) and Aaron Miles (14 points, 10 assists) in the losing effort. Reno heads to Austin Sunday afternoon for a 3 p.m.PT tip against the Austin Toros. All Bighorns road games can be seen live for free on NBA Futurecast by visiting nba.com/dleague. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

[Durbansandshark]

Tulsa 66ers - Ft.Wayne MA 80-92
The Fort Wayne Mad Ants (6-4) topped the Tulsa 66ers (6-5) by a 92-80 final Friday evening inside the Tulsa Convention Center. The two teams split the back-to-back set, as Tulsa took game one on Thursday night by a 100-93 overtime final. Tulsa led 43-38 at halftime Friday evening but scored just five points in the third quarter, allowing the Mad Ants to enter the fourth with a 69-48 lead. The 66ers rallied and cut the deficit to 10 points in the final quarter but came up short. 'The lesson we have to learn is we need to be ready to bounce back,' 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts said. 'We can't hang our heads because we've got a great team coming in here next in Iowa. I have confidence that our guys will come out strong and focused on Sunday.' Guard Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) led the 66ers in scoring with 16 points and Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) racked up a team-high nine rebounds. Also scoring in double figures for Tulsa was Ryan Reid with 15 points, Tweety Carter with 14 points and Zabian Dowdell with 10 points. Leading Fort Wayne with double-doubles were Marvin Phillips with 15 points and 13 rebounds and Chris Hunter with 14 points and 12 boards. The team's high scorer was Walker Russell with 16 points. Oliver Lafayette and Roderick Wilmont chipped in 12 and 10 points, respectively. Tulsa returns to the court this Sunday, Dec. 19, when it hosts the Iowa Energy at 4 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. The 66ers will celebrate the holiday season on Sunday with special performances by the 66ers junior dance team, Oklahoma Dance Academy and the 66ers dance team. *Courtesy of www.gtrnews.com

Dakota W. - Texas L. 115-102
The Texas Legends fell 115-102 to the Dakota Wizards in the opening game of a two-game set from the Bismarck Civic Center on Friday night. The Legends trailed the Wizards by only two points going into the second quarter, when Vernon Hamilton scored seven straight points to give Dakota a strong nine point lead. Justin Dentmon (5'11''-G-85, college: Washington) also caught fire in the first half with 16 points and three three-pointer's. However, aside from Dentmon only three other Legends players scored in the first half, including Dominique Jones, Sean Williams and Joe Alexander (6'8''-F-86, college: W.Virginia). Texas found themselves trailing 57-48 going into the break. The Wizards maintained a solid lead until the Legends went on a 13-6 run to end the third quarter and make it just a three point deficit. The teams fought back and forth throughout the fourth quarter, but it was Renaldo Major and recent assignee from the Memphis Grizzlies DeMarre Carroll late in the game fuelling the Wizards to just their second win all season. Justin Dentmon was unstoppable through the first three quarters scoring all of his career-high 24 points, however was silenced and held scoreless in the fourth. Joe Alexander in his return from a foot injury provided the teams lone double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Carroll, Major, Chris Johnson and Darren Cooper all had 20 or more points in the win for Dakota as the Wizards led from the tip-off until the final buzzer. The loss drops Texas to 6-4 on the season, while the Wizards improved to 2-9. For the first time in franchise history the Legends have lost back-to-back games. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sioux Falls S. - Utah F. 101-106
The Utah Flash defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 106-101 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Friday night. Sioux Falls took a three-point lead, 91-88, midway through the fourth quarter after trailing by as many as 16 points in the second half, but Utah made the key plays down the stretch to pick up its league-leading fifth road win of the season. Sioux Falls (2-8) jumped out to a 10-3 lead in the first three minutes of the game, but Utah went on a 14-0 run over the next five minutes to go ahead 17-10. Utah (6-5) would not relinquish the lead the rest of the first half and took a 54-41 lead into the locker room. Sioux Falls closed the gap to eight points, 56-48, early in the second half before Flash center Brandon Costner (6'9''-F-87, college: N.Carolina St.) made three 3-pointers in a five-minute span to push Utah's lead back to 15 points, 71-56. Sioux Falls ended the third quarter with a 10-0 spurt over the final two minutes and trailed 79-73 heading into the final stanza. A reverse lay-up by Anthony Harris gave Sioux Falls its first lead since the first quarter, but they could not hold on for the win and fell to 1-5 at home. Costner scored a season-high 23 points on the strength of 5-of-6 shooting from 3-point field range. Andre Ingram (6'3''-G-85, college: American) added 19 points, while Ryan Thompson provided a spark off the bench with 15. Dexter Pittman finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds and six blocks for Sioux Falls. Harris posted a season-high 19 points in his first start of the season and Leemire Goldwire scored 17 points in a reserve role for the Skyforce. The same two teams tangle tonight at the Sioux Falls Arena at 6 p.m. MT. *Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Springfield A. - Maine RC 112-117
They still may be a work in progress, but the Maine Red Claws are showing signs of improvement. The Red Claws used their backcourt quickness to end a three-game road losing streak Friday night with a 117-112 victory over the Springfield Armor. An announced crowd of 2,558 saw the Red Claws win for the second straight night. For most of the game, the Red Claws (5-6) made it look easy, thanks to lights-out shooting and a strong transition game. But they let the Armor hang around and needed big plays in crunch time. 'We've played well the last two games, but I think it's our youth that causes us to go through some stretches where we're just not into it mentally,' Red Claws Coach Austin Ainge said. 'Our mental toughness needs to get better and we still have a lot of work to do.' Tiny Gallon (19 points) returned Thursday after a back injury, and adding Sherron Collins (18 points) on assignment from the Charlotte Bobcats has helped. The roster has 11 healthy bodies and the Red Claws were able to use balance to beat the Armor (3-7). 'We've got guys who can score and play defense. We're starting to jell,' said DeShawn Sims (6'8''-F-88, college: Michigan), who led the Red Claws with 25 points. Eugene Spates (6'8''-F-87, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Northeastern) had 14 points and Jamar Smith 13. Early on, the Armor were plagued by poor interior defense, resulting in layups for the Red Claws. JamesOn Curry scored 17 of his 38 points in the opening quarter for Springfield. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Original Viper Stanley Asumnu returns to team - Dec 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The defending NBA Development League champion Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced Friday that they have re-acquired forward Stanley Asumnu (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: Union Sports, college: Tennessee) who was has been out since November 30 due to personal reasons.

He has also changed his number back to 23, the number he wore for his first three years with the team. Asumnu wore #7 during the early portion of this season. Asumnu is averaging 4.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 12.0 minutes in three games off the bench. Asumnu takes the roster spot of forward Stanley Robinson (6-9, 210, Connecticut), who was waived due to injury on Thursday. Robinson has been out since December 8 with a right leg injury.

Robinson is averaging 9.7 points and 2.7 rebounds and 10.3 minutes in three games off the bench.

Courtesy of www.valleycentral.com

[Durbansandshark]

Blazers recall Luke Babbitt from D-League - Dec 18, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Portland Trail Blazers have recalled forward Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada) from the NBA Development Leagues Idaho Stampede, it was announced today by General Manager Rich Cho. In four games with the Stampede, Babbitt posted averages of 18.0 points (20-21 FT) and 5.8 rebounds in 27.3 minutes. He totaled highs of 23 points, nine rebounds and two blocks on Dec. 11 vs. the Utah Flash.

Babbitt, 21, has appeared in eight games for the Trail Blazers, recording four points and two rebounds in 10 minutes Nov. 6 vs. the Toronto Raptors. Acquired by Portland in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves after being selected 16th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft, Babbitt is expected to join the Trail Blazers in time for todays game vs. Golden State.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Saturday's games (4) review - Dec 19, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
Sioux Falls S. - Utah F. 97-98
The Utah Flash defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 98-97 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Saturday night. Utah only trailed once in the game and held off a furious Sioux Falls rally to complete the weekend sweep. Anthony Mason, Jr. made a lay-up to give Sioux Falls (2-9) a 2-0 lead but it would be their only lead of the game. Utah (7-5) led 52-46 at halftime behind 17 points from Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette). Utah led by as many as 13 points in the third quarter but Sioux Falls went on a 7-1 spurt to end the quarter and only trailed by seven points (76-69) heading into the final quarter. Keaton Grant made a 3-pointer early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to four points but Utah responded with seven straight points to push the lead to double digits (83-72). Chris McCray converted a lay-up to get the Skyforce within one point (91-90) with two minutes to go in the contest but Kevin Kruger (6'1''-G-83, college: UNLV) hit a shot clock buzzer-beating 3-pointer to make it a two-possession game. Sioux Falls had chance to win the game in the final seconds but Leemire Goldwire missed a contested 3-pointer at the buzzer as Sioux Falls dropped their third straight home game. All five Utah starters reached double figures led by Greene and Kruger with 22 and 19 points, respectively. Brandon Costner (14 points, 10 rebounds) and Bennet Davis (10 points, 10 rebounds) each recorded double-doubles. Miami HEAT assignee Dexter Pittman just missed his second consecutive double-double with 22 points and nine rebounds. Mason, Jr. added 18 points while Goldwire scored 16 of the team's 20 bench points. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Rio Grande - Bakersfield J. 93-99
Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) scored 11 of his game-high 24 points from the free-throw line as the Bakersfield Jam beat the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 99-93 on Saturday night in McAllen, Texas. The Jam (7-6) climbed back above .500 and avoided a three-game skid by holding off the Vipers (6-5) in the fourth quarter. Marqus Blakely added 19 points and 13 rebounds for Bakersfield, which held a 51-44 advantage on the glass. Patrick Sullivan (6'9''-C-88, college: SE Louisiana) scored 21 points to lead five Rio Grande Valley players in double figures. The Jam returns to action Dec. 28 at home against the New Mexico Thunderbirds. *Courtesy of www.bakersfield.com

Springfield A. - Idaho S. 109-102 OT
Make no mistake, the MassMutual Center was unusually crowded because Antoine Walker (6'9''-F-75, college: Kentucky) visited town. Maybe the fans will return in the future, even when Walker does not provide a drawing card - the game itself certainly did not disappoint. Walker's Idaho Stampede erased a 15-point second-half deficit, but the Springfield Armor used a gritty, balanced effort, and two Scottie Reynolds (6'2''-G-87, college: Villanova) three-pointers in overtime, to escape with a thrilling 109-102 win. 'These guys,' said Springfield coach Dee Brown, 'they just don't like to lose.' Springfield opened a 15-point lead in the third quarter, and it briefly looked like the game would become a blowout. But Idaho wasn't easily deterred. On the back of Luke Jackson's relentless, attacking style and eight third-quarter points, the Stampede chipped away at the lead. By the time the third quarter horn sounded, the deficit had been cut to 77-68. Suffocating Stampede defense and a quick scoring spurt by Lance Hurdle (13 points) helped Idaho erase the Armor lead entirely in the fourth quarter. When Walker banked home a five-foot baby hook with just under six minutes remaining in the game, Idaho took its first lead of the night. Walker hit a three-pointer with fewer than two minutes left to stretch the Stampede lead to seven points, and followed it with his trademark shimmy. But Springfield would not be denied, not on this night, not even by a former NBA All-Star. A furious charge capped by a pair of Tre Whitted free throws sent the game to overtime, where the Armor outscored Idaho, 11-5. 'We adjusted our defense, ' said Brown. 'We tried to, obviously, get the ball out of [Jackson's] hands, out of [Walker's] hands. We tried to make somebody else make plays.' Brown continued, 'Antoine Walker, he's shown he can beat teams. He's done it in the NBA. So we made other guys make shots, they missed shots, and we settled down a little bit.' Walker, attempting a return to the NBA after a long layoff, did not disappoint his supporters. He finished with 27 points, seven assists, and four rebounds (and, yes, the one Walker Wiggle), but missed a potentially game-winning fadeaway jumper as time expired in regulation. Two years, nine months and nineteen days since his most recent NBA game - and five years, five months and eleven days since his last game as a Boston Celtic - Walker's professional return to Massachusetts still elicited a strong, and split, reaction. Some fans cheered Walker, while others heckled. One small boy, searching for an autograph, stood in wonderment. He asked whether the 6-foot-9, 240-pound behemoth standing by his side really was 'the' Antoine Walker. Walker nodded, signed the boy's program and proceeded to participate in the fiercely contested game. The Armor didn't treat Walker with the same awe displayed by the young boy. Despite Walker's 13 first-half points, a balanced and unselfish Armor attack surged ahead in the second quarter. In that second frame, Springfield limited Idaho to 5-14 shooting and forced six turnovers, flipping a 22-22 tie into a 54-44 halftime lead. Backup Armor guard Jerry Smith contributed six points and four assists in the period. Reynolds and forward Vernon Goodridge led Springfield with 18 points apiece, and Smith added 17 points and seven assists. In a losing effort, Jackson pitched in 27 points, six rebounds, and five helpers. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

[Durbansandshark]

Dakota W. - Texas L. 101-95
Saying Mike Anderson (6'7''-F-86, agency: Union Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) had a career night in the Dakota Wizards' 101-95 victory over the Texas Legends on Saturday doesn't do him justice. Sure, the reserve forward put up career highs with 20 points and 14 rebounds. But it was also the kind of night when Anderson's hustle led to at least one play that defied belief. Like when the Wizards were clinging to a five-point lead late in the fourth quarter and Anderson grabbed the last of his eight offensive rebounds - from the seat of his pants. Then Anderson bounced a pass through a defender's legs for a 3-point basket by Vernon Hamilton (6'0''-G-84, college: Clemson) on of the game's most important plays. 'I was trying to box out, and I actually slipped,' Anderson said with a laugh. 'I saw the ball coming to me, so I was like, ‘Please nobody grab it before it comes to me.' 'I caught it and I saw everybody trying to crowd around me. I saw Vernon in the corner, and he had just hit one, so I figured he could get off a good shot.' It was a nice reward for a night when Anderson did the dirty work on both ends of the court. He was in the thick of it when the Wizards took control with a 20-1 run. Anderson's effort is earning him an increased role even as the Wizards are adding talent. 'He's a player that's going to get up and down the floor,' Wizards coach Rory White said. 'He's an active guy, and that's why he's having success.' Hamilton also came up big in his second game with the Wizards. He scored 24 points on 8-for-12 shooting, and also contributed six assists and three steals. Hamilton was 4-for-5 from beyond the arc, including two 3-pointers in the final three minutes. 'When he got released from Austin they thought he couldn't keep teams honest with outside shooting,' White said. 'He's focused on it. I think he's determined to show the league that he can shoot. If he keeps shooting it like that, good things are going to happen for him as well.' The Wizards came out ice cold, making just 1 of their first 10 shots. But Anderson came off the bench and gave Dakota a quick boost, scoring eight points during a 14-3 run. The Wizards moved ahead before the end of the first quarter and kept the lead most of the night. The Legends' best quarter was the third. They freed up Joe Alexander, who scored 10 of his 16 points in the period. Sean Williams (23 points, 14 rebounds) also heated up, as Texas moved ahead 71-66. But then Dakota's defense clamped down hard, and it led to offense. The Wizards scored eight unanswered before a free throw by Texas' Dominique Jones closed out the third. Then the Wizards rattled off the first 12 points of the fourth quarter. During that stretch the Wizards forced six turnovers and harried the Legends in to missing their only four field goal attempts. 'That's what we pride ourselves on, playing defense and trying to get out and get easy shots,' Anderson said. '... We're very athletic. If we can get out on the wings and run, we're going to get easy buckets.' Legends coach Nancy Lieberman said the turnovers, especially during that stretch, were a killer. 'We can't give them 27 points (off turnovers),' Lieberman said. 'I mean I know it's Christmas, and I like Rory, but we can't give a team like this that many opportunities. It puts duress on our defense to have to play that many more possessions.' That's where the loss of veteran Antonio Daniels - out four to six weeks with a wrist injury - came back to haunt Texas. 'I don't ever want to make any excuses,' Lieberman said. 'The fact that we don't have Antonio is pretty tough. That's like losing Steve Nash. That's like losing Chris Paul. That's not having the head of the snake.' The Wizards got quality play from Darren Cooper, who had 15 points on 6-for-8 shooting, plus seven assists. DeMarre Carroll, on assignment from Memphis, had 19 points and five rebounds in his second game with Dakota. The Wizards have a week off to enjoy their two-game winning streak. *Courtesy of www.bismarcktribune.com

Suns recall forward Lawal from NBADL - Dec 20, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Phoenix Suns recalled rookie forward Gani Lawal (6'9''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) from the Iowa Energy of the NBA Development League on Sunday. Originally assigned to the NBADL on Nov. 16, Lawal appeared in 10 games with the Energy, posting averages of 11.2 points and 6.0 rebounds in 20.2 minutes. The 6-foot-9, 234-pound Lawal scored in double figures in five of his 10 games, including two scoring efforts of 20 points or more.
The Georgia Tech product was selected by the Suns with the 46th overall pick of the 2010 draft. He has not yet made his NBA debut.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com

Heat recall Dexter Pittman from Sioux Falls of D-League - Dec 20, 2010 (by Eurobasket News)
The Miami Heat recalled rookie center Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas) from the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Developmental League. He was sent down on November 26th to start the D-League season with the Skyforce. After Pittman had a solid stint playing for the Heat's summer league team, he was sent to the D-League to refine his skills against the next level of talent instead of sitting at the end of the bench in Miami.

After three weeks in South Dakota apparently the Heat coaching staff are pleased with his progress because