Brisbane Bullets Off Season Thread

[Hulk Hogan]

Now that they are gone, we can discuss next season.

I personnally think that we only need one mid veteran type guy at the 2/3 spot . To me we only need Hill or Williamson, not both. Not overly fussed on Rychardt at the moment either. Lampley ripped him down the strech last night and made him look very very slow.

Will Justin Brown be brought back? If the Hawks had gone under, Cam T would have been a good pick up.

[bucky]

If the Hawks had gone under, Cam T would have been a good pick up.

He was a good pick up last season but what did they do with him?? Used him as a benchwarmer and nothing else! I'm not sure why he would want to go back and sit behind Bradshaw and Dusty even if the Hawks did go under.

[Dunkin' Dan]

GRRRR!! Please don't post game spoilers in the thread titles!

I haven't watched game 2 of the Tigers-Bullets series yet, and probably won't have time to do so until after game 3, so I'd appreciate you please not gving away the fact that the Bullets are no longer alive in the playoffs. :x :evil:

[Wild 1]

Brissie in a precarious situation with Sam Mac an unknown quantity regarding how much he's gona be back to his usual form after fully recovering. May need something more at Dustys spot if he's not the same old, which I personally doubt he will be.

Still thankful that the Wildcats managed to offload Brown to you guys haha He's actually not going to get any better! :)

[Dunkin' Dan]

Hey, don't say that, he's still young.

Compared to D-Mac

[Cram]

I certainly wouldnt write Mack off. He's shown he can come back from injury before, and I'd reckon he can do it again. He may not be MVP calibre, but I'd have my money on him still getting 15 and 8 with ease. His absence was telling for the Bullets I thought, and getting him back next season would mean changes would need to be minimal.

I also reckon Brown is a good option at Back up C. He moves well to space, rebounds pretty well and is pretty solid on D. Sure he aint a star, but if you can hang on to Bradshaw, who will improve you would assume, Brown can do a good job with 10-15mpg.

I think with Gibson (who was great in this series), CJ, Ebi, Hill, Williamson, Brown, Sam, Bradshaw and Dusty, theres not much of a need to mess with it unless everyone isnt fit. The only thing I would consider would be getting a new import instead of dusty, but only if something really good comes along.

[fahootie]

I think with Gibson (who was great in this series), CJ, Ebi, Hill, Williamson, Brown, Sam, Bradshaw and Dusty, theres not much of a need to mess with it unless everyone isnt fit. The only thing I would consider would be getting a new import instead of dusty, but only if something really good comes along.

I'd be happy to keep that line-up including Dusty, but we certainly need some decent quality backup bigs (as much as I like JB, with his size he is SOFT). Cam T would be great, but we are not going to get him. Any bigs coming back from College who needs some ABC shares?

[isaac]

Wasn't there a hint that Weigh would be heading to Brisbane?

[djrod]

not necessarily :wink:

[Mr bEn]

We have no need for Weigh, someone else can try their hand with him.

[Spork]

i like mick hill, he plays with passion and is a real nice guy off the court...but this year his play went down, so i'd be happy for him to be cut.

and he would have to be cut/released as the only free agents on the list that was released a few weeks back are brown (who needs to learn to catch) and rychart

bring dusty back unles a superstar is available who can play the 4 and 5 and as for brown...well the team seems to get along with him so...thats an upside right? :)

[WHIPS]

Wasn't there a hint that Weigh would be heading to Brisbane?

Who is Weigh? A returning college kid? What position?

Brown's fundamentals are quite terrible, but this season's proven, with Melbourne and Sydney particularly, that the Bullets are in need of a solid back-up big. Someone with starting potential, like a Mottram type that could back up Bradshaw or even a more mobile tall 4 man such as Hoare.

I am curious to see what happens with Brad Williamson and Mike Hill, whether one or both are cut. I would keep Mike ahead of Brad.

[isaac]

http://utahutes.cstv.com/sports/m-baskb ... hen00.html (http://utahutes.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/weigh_stephen00.html)

Didn't someone mention Vanderjagt heading to Brisbane somewhere? Or was that just for the off-season?

[WHIPS]

http://utahutes.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/weigh_stephen00.html

Didn't someone mention Vanderjagt heading to Brisbane somewhere? Or was that just for the off-season?

Thanks Isaac.

If weigh is in consideration by JVG then the Bullets will have a superfluity of small forwards unless Williamson or Hill are cut.

I'm not sure V'jagt is what Brisbane need either, his skill level's higher than Browns obviously but he's as soft if not softer than Brown in the paint..

[isaac]

I hear that Vanderjagt is a done deal. Moving to Brisbane and settling with his partner.

[Spork]

you going do a LOT worse than vanderjagt...like neil turner or gavin vanderputten for example :)

[whupass]

I hear that Vanderjagt is a done deal. Moving to Brisbane and settling with his partner.

Issac? is this really Van Dandy? That is certainly the senario that Greg would love to see happen. I doubt its a "done deal". Vanderjacts' girl does in fact live and play, netball, (ughh!) in Brisbane. He is VERY keen to move south. I hear the Bullets will go after a few other options before Van Dandy.

Dusty is done and dusted!! He signed a few weeks ago for 2 seasons. He is seeking Ozzie citizenship.

Bradshaw to explore options in Europe. Not sure if he will be back.

Stevie Weigh will play in Brisbane next year, sorry DJ, Crocs the second/third option for Weigh.

Bye Bye Brad Williamson.

Justin Brown see above..your gone son!!

Will there even be a Brisbane team next year??? The league itself is looking shaky..

Interesting times ahead.....

[pj]

http://utahutes.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/weigh_stephen00.html

Didn't someone mention Vanderjagt heading to Brisbane somewhere? Or was that just for the off-season?

Didn't realise that Weigh won a Staunton Medal?
is the a list of previous winners anywhere?
Couldn't find one on BA site.

[WHIPS]

I hear that Vanderjagt is a done deal. Moving to Brisbane and settling with his partner.

Issac? is this really Van Dandy? That is certainly the senario that Greg would love to see happen. I doubt its a "done deal". Vanderjacts' girl does in fact live and play, netball, (ughh!) in Brisbane. He is VERY keen to move south. I hear the Bullets will go after a few other options before Van Dandy.

Dusty is done and dusted!! He signed a few weeks ago for 2 seasons. He is seeking Ozzie citizenship.

Bradshaw to explore options in Europe. Not sure if he will be back.

Stevie Weigh will play in Brisbane next year, sorry DJ, Crocs the second/third option for Weigh.

Bye Bye Brad Williamson.

Justin Brown see above..your gone son!!

Will there even be a Brisbane team next year??? The league itself is looking shaky..

Interesting times ahead.....

Thanks for the insight as always, whupass.

I hope Bradshaw is back in a Bullets uniform next season rather than Europe, he just started to show the form I expected from him after witnessing his dominant display playing for the Tallblacks. He could really dominant this league.

I'm assuming they'll likely retain Hill for atleast the remainder of his contract, which I'm glad to hear. I'm sure Brad will pick up a contract somewhere, possibly the Blaze.

Any idea who these other options ahead of Vanderjagt are? Or should I say, care to inform us who these other options are? :D

[isaac]

Didn't realise that Weigh won a Staunton Medal?
is the a list of previous winners anywhere?
Couldn't find one on BA site.

First hit at Google for "staunton medal" had this:

R.E. Staunton medal winners at Australian U20 Championships

1991 Tony Ronaldson Trisha Fallon
1992 Brett Maher Jenny Whittle
1993 Chris Blakemore Michele Chandler
1994 Phil Doherty Kristi Harrower
1995 Sam Mackinnon Jae Kingi
1996 Frank Drmic Melissa McClure
1997 Frank Drmic Eleanor Sharp
1998 Stephen Black Narelle Lindsay
1999 Stephen Black Lauren Jackson
2000 Oscar Forman Alison O’Dwyer
2001 Matthew Burston Shelley Hammonds
2002 Larry Davidson Laura Summerton
2003 Damian Martin Kelly Wilson
2004 Brad Newley Erin Phillips
2005 Stephen Weigh Kathleen Macleod

[Poida]

Weigh would be a big upgrade over Williamson. Kid's got a great jumpshot off the dribble.

Always wondered why the Bullets picked up Brown and didn't do absolutely everything in their power to retain Cam T instead.

[Spork]

probably points cap or maybe cam had got an offer from the hawks before the bullets made one (if they did) and realised he'd get a lot more opportunities there?

guesses only of course

[curious]

Preliminary points allocation have apparently been circulated to players, agents etc.

[whupass]

Weigh would be a big upgrade over Williamson. Kid's got a great jumpshot off the dribble.

Always wondered why the Bullets picked up Brown and didn't do absolutely everything in their power to retain Cam T instead.

Wonder no more, heres the juice. Cam T and his "agent" can only blame themselves. Seems they aren't very good at playing one off on the other? I'll leave it at that...

Weigh is a player on BOTH ends of the floor, hey we agree on something..don't get used to it. he he he

[WHIPS]

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,865 ... 69,00.html (http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23299882-23769,00.html)

Above article discussing the need for experience and leadership in the 5 spot. I'm not too sure who is available to meet such criteria. Vanderjagt is certainly not the name that springs to mind with such consideration.

[hendrix]

i think the article kind of highlights one thing....
What was Joey expecting when he recruited Brown???

Bradtke brought a lot of things to the table because he was Bradtke. He'd been a dominant big in the NBL for a long time. He'd played for the national team.

Brown had................................ ummm.... dunked once or twice in comparison....

what's the man expect????????

[King of Kings]

Not sure if you Bullets fans have seen this yet, just out in the SMH. Not sounding good.

http://news.smh.com.au/bullets-silent-o ... -1wiz.html (http://news.smh.com.au/bullets-silent-over-nbl-team-ownership/20080303-1wiz.html)

[Earnie Shavers]

Honestly - what do you think the Bullets would be worth? Kings last traded for just under $2 mill, for what it's worth. If he's really in this kind of trouble, I think you'd see movement on the Dome first. It'd be worth more, and means less to him. Who knows what else he owns property wise as well. Just a medium sized house in a top Sydney suburb will easily get him more back than a Bullets sale. It would be the continuing commitment that might be a problem. If he needs to scale back his Bullets commitment a bit, there's also the option of bringing in partners and sharing the load rather than totally selling.

[King of Kings]

Honestly - what do you think the Bullets would be worth? Kings last traded for just under $2 mill, for what it's worth. If he's really in this kind of trouble, I think you'd see movement on the Dome first. It'd be worth more, and means less to him. Who knows what else he owns property wise as well. Just a medium sized house in a top Sydney suburb will easily get him more back than a Bullets sale. It would be the continuing commitment that might be a problem. If he needs to scale back his Bullets commitment a bit, there's also the option of bringing in partners and sharing the load rather than totally selling.

Earnie,

I agree. I don't know how much trouble financially he is in, but it seems serious. As I said on the 36's page I think Eddy's issues mean big trouble for the 36's via the Dome or his unpublished financial support of the team. I hope he doesn't have to sell the Bullets but it will all depend on how hard he is it personally in the hip pocket. The other issue that has not been said yet, is the support ABC have given the Bullets by sponsorship and ticket sales is now going to disapear as his control of the company is gone.

[WHIPS]

i think the article kind of highlights one thing....
What was Joey expecting when he recruited Brown???

Bradtke brought a lot of things to the table because he was Bradtke. He'd been a dominant big in the NBL for a long time. He'd played for the national team.

Brown had................................ ummm.... dunked once or twice in comparison....

what's the man expect????????

You're exactly right. It's disappointing it's taken another season to highlight it. You'd of thought a minor premiership and a championship would be strong enough indicators that a proven formula existed and replication of that going into 07/08 season would've been top priority.

[lawsy82]

i said this last week, to some idiot bullets supporter on this forum bullets are in trouble BIG TROUBLE...Kings will be around for many years to come, bullets i wouldnt be so sure. They dont pull crowds, lets be real. Alot of their tickets are freebies, and half their roster is being paid from ABC, and eddies back pocket. He will sell the bullets, as id also said bullets have made 1 season a profit the rest have been break evens or losses.

[havrilla the gorilla]

The main problem for me this season was the Bullets lack of energy and ability to press like they did last year. For anybody fortunate enough to witness the team regularly during last season it was a procession - especially at the BECC.

At stages during the year they just looked rooted, particularly playing a second consecuative game on the road(blowout loss to Adelaide comes to mind) if they are going to keep the "small ball" team they need Mackinnon fit and healthy as well as a quick 5 man to fit this system. Bradshaw was able to but Brown definately couldn't. He was slow, couldn't guard anybody and struggled to finish. His court time reflected this.

We are talking about a squad that won the title last season and made the semi finals this year so we don't need radical changes. Spare a thought for Singapore or South. Everyone is contracted for next season but I think Bradshaw has an out to explore European Offers which he is doing. Cam T didn't want to play any D so he can stay in the Gong. Dusty will naturalise in 2 years so lets keep him...get a new Big Man and we are sweet.

[whupass]

I hear that Vanderjagt is a done deal. Moving to Brisbane and settling with his partner.

Issac? is this really Van Dandy? That is certainly the senario that Greg would love to see happen. I doubt its a "done deal". Vanderjacts' girl does in fact live and play, netball, (ughh!) in Brisbane. He is VERY keen to move south. I hear the Bullets will go after a few other options before Van Dandy.

Dusty is done and dusted!! He signed a few weeks ago for 2 seasons. He is seeking Ozzie citizenship.

Bradshaw to explore options in Europe. Not sure if he will be back.

Stevie Weigh will play in Brisbane next year, sorry DJ, Crocs the second/third option for Weigh.

Bye Bye Brad Williamson.

Justin Brown see above..your gone son!!

Will there even be a Brisbane team next year??? The league itself is looking shaky..

Interesting times ahead.....

Thanks for the insight as always, whupass.

I hope Bradshaw is back in a Bullets uniform next season rather than Europe, he just started to show the form I expected from him after witnessing his dominant display playing for the Tallblacks. He could really dominant this league.

I'm assuming they'll likely retain Hill for atleast the remainder of his contract, which I'm glad to hear. I'm sure Brad will pick up a contract somewhere, possibly the Blaze.

Any idea who these other options ahead of Vanderjagt are? Or should I say, care to inform us who these other options are? :D

With recent events, all bets are now off! Seems contracts and promises now mean nothing, so its anyones guess.

I have heard that Weigh will now become a Croc, for a six figure sum and guarenteed court time. Smart move by SW, but who will go at the Crocs?

Vandy, no idea, recent events may help him get to Brissy?

[hendrix]

wright's probable departure puts everything on hold I'd say.

I hope JVG is taking a MASSIVE pay cut if he's asking Joey to take a cut.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Dusty is done and dusted!! He signed a few weeks ago for 2 seasons. He is seeking Ozzie citizenship.

Bradshaw to explore options in Europe. Not sure if he will be back.

Stevie Weigh will play in Brisbane next year, sorry DJ, Crocs the second/third option for Weigh.

Bye Bye Brad Williamson.

Justin Brown see above..your gone son!!

Will there even be a Brisbane team next year??? The league itself is looking shaky..

Interesting times ahead.....


It looks like the Bullets might get out of the perfect storm on a paddle pop stick boat and survive, thus keeping the bulk of the squad :D - do you think your above possibilities still ring true Whupass? Or is it a whole new ballgame with no Fast Eddy at the helm.

As far as the Williamson v Hill debate give me Williamson anyday. While frustrating at times and one dimensional, he is younger, quicker, more athletic and has a shot on him that isn't high maintenance. I can't question Hill's heart and determination(particularly on the defensive end) but his shot sucks and he cost the Bullets two games during last season with piss poor turnovers down the stretch - the latter saw Brisbane's title defence come to an end. Watching him get stripped in the backcourt by D-Mac and Larry Abney which led to breakaway dunks was a lowlight too. :x

[wildscooby]

bullets saved by the bell. interesting rumour mill to what is happening with big names.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,23546503-10389,00.html

[SaNMaN]

I am interested to know then whether or not current contracts [ones signed under Eddy] are pretty much null and void now or if the new group will try and honour those contracts, with some slight alterations. Also am I the only one who thinks Justin Brown should be retained as a back up Centre? For 10 minutes a game he can be fairly productive but even if all he does is set picks and defends bigs like Rogers and Anstey and maybe puts a up a shot once in a while, that's all you really need. Maybe there are some better prospects out there but it's always an advantage to have a 7ft'er out there.

[fraggs]

I think as with any modern sport there comes a point where contracts are not even worth the paper they are written on. Even if they are still be technically valid, they'd never stand up against a serious legal challenge. The most the new owners can do is ask nicely for guys like CJ and Sam to honour those contracts and continue playing.

One thing is for sure, at least we can put the whole Bullets vs the salary cap issue to bed. If the players stay it will be for an honest wage.

[fahootie]

We really need a quality big as one of the import spots.

It would be nice to have Dusty back, especially as he should be naturalised in the near future, but I thought that last season we missed having a another quality big man (even with Ebi's year).

We need a dominant post player - think Chuck Kornegay/Andre Moore.

[Stanley]

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008 ... 218222.htm (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/04/16/2218222.htm)

"It's more about supporting sport in the town. We will have very tight budgets and we'll be watching it and we believe that we can control it fairly well, but again this is for Brisbane," he said.

[AngusH]

Good news. Hopefully you boys are able to field a decent team.

[Clips]

Good news. Hopefully you boys are able to field a decent team.Right back at ya. :wink:

[fraggs]

One major thing that might come of this is that since these guys already have the Logan Thunder perhaps the Bullets will end up with a bit more general good-will from the community. One of the outstanding issues I always thought of with Brisbane was how they lost touch with the local clubs and the dedicated community that exists around that. There are plenty of young ball players in this town, they just need some good reasons to be interested in the NBL and we'll go a long way towards getting the kind of basic level of support needed to keep the NBL treading water.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Okay - the one on one meetings happened today, so the burning question is the makeup of the roster for next season.

PROBABLE:
Bruton
Gibson
Hill
Boucher

SO-SO:
Mackinnon
Williamson
Rychart

PROBABLY NOT/GONE:
Ere
Bradshaw
Brown

It looks like Ere is gone, which isn't all bad because the Bullets didn't really have the team to play small ball last season without Black. Gibbo and CJ will obviously start in the backcourt, and if they can add a really good import '5' who is a quality centre we should be competitve. The whole dynamic would change if both Sam and Dusty left, but I am reasonably confident on at least one - probably Sam. I just hope it is MVP Sam and not one leg Sam or we will be screwed...

[wildscooby]

http://news.brisbanetimes.com.au/bullets-need-to-make-offers-to-players/20080417-26ox.html

Brissie players still waiting for revised contracts... and not likely to wait too long.

[fraggs]

Yeah, waiting on offers. The players are not stupid and they know how much money they can get elsewhere. The new owners have already said that they know what their budget is and they will stick to it. It won't be the same budget as what Eddy was working with. The players will more than likely get offered the amount that is on their contract and maybe a few sneaky "incentives" which will probably amount to a small portion of what they could demand as a marquee player elsewhere. For all that the players have said that they'd like to stay in Brisbane, they're only going to get offered what amounts to an honest wage. It'll be interesting to see how they respond. I have no doubt that all players will have at least their official contract amount put back on the table.

[angry ant]

Dusty wants to stay-

http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74770

[fraggs]

Good news, at least that he would LIKE to stay with Brisbane. Be interested to see if Joey is keen, but having gone to such lengths to get him in the first place I'd say a good offer should be made.

[The_Janitor]

According to the BigV website forum, Perth have signed CJ and SMac and Gibbo are staying (http://www.bigv.com.au/forum.cgi?act=dt&thread=2300&post=24861)

I don't know how good the source is but i thought i'd pass it on...

[Judge_Dredd]

Well, I hope no one ever proposes that CJ deserves a loyalty discount on his cap points ...

[WebMonkey]

Would have been good to keep CJ, but out of him and Gibbo I'd rather Gibbo stayed anyway...

[fraggs]

While I like to see players stick by their teams when the sh!t hits the fan, I tend to appreciate that this is their career and basically their whole life for the 10-12 years that they are good enough. They do what you think is best and with good reason. No, CJ has never shown what you could call significant "loyalty" in the face of team hardships, but I'm not about the hold a grudge against the guy if we wants to ply his trade out west.

[fraggs]

I might suggest, as good a player as CJ has been from time to time, the way he completely failed to listen to Joey during the semi-final series had me a bit miffed. I like players to have confidence but at the end of the day there is only supposed to be one guy in a club who knows what the best play should be and if you're not going to listen to him then you probably shouldn't be playing for that club.

[Cracker]

Although that news is not confirmed I'd say im happy with Gibson staying over CJ. CJ barring injury only has a few more years of quality play left while Gibson has plenty. I beleive Gibson will do a great job as the primary ball handler. If he brings his play back to his form during the 07 playoffs i have no doubt our point guard duties will be well covered. He just has to get rid of those cheap fouls he seems to collect frequently.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Are you guys going to change your tune when that dogs breakfast of a forum turns out to be wrong? The fact you can hardly seperate each post from the last and there was no reference makes me very skeptical.

And for you narrow minded folks with memory spans like a goldfish, go back and watch the fourth quarter of the championship game, when the Bullets also go "tight" and were lucky that CJ bailed them out along with a Bradtke jumper. Those last five minutes and overtime of game 2 last season when Brisbane lost was a complete choke. There was panic, no direction and no talk out there on the court. Nobody put their hand up except CJ, and the reason he shouted "give me the ball" because everytime somebody else touched it they f'ucked it up.

CJ is one of the best I have ever seen in the clutch, and is a winner plain and simple. He has the championships to prove it. Did Rucker get the job done? How many rings did he win. Yes CJ had the resources available to him but how many times has he come up with the big play...

This is not a slight on Gibson, who is probably more important in the long run. If you think CJ is a liability to any Basketball team you don't know shit about Basketball... :?

[Cracker]

Are you this aggresive with everything in life? Narrow minded knobs? Sheesh.

[WebMonkey]

Settle down Gorilla. Have a coke and a smile and chill the f**k out. Nobody said anything to deserve that ill tempered tirade.

Internet rage isn't cool. mmmkay

[havrilla the gorilla]

Are you this aggresive with everything in life? Narrow minded knobs? Sheesh.

Aggressive, Internet Rage? Are you guys serious?

Get some balls. I was merely disagreeing with you - strenuously. Life would be boring if everybody were a clone. I purposely used a gentle word(knob...sometimes a suffix for door) to express my disappointment without resorting to swear words. In my opinion you are being narrow minded regarding CJ. Feel free to retort differently preferably supported by examples. If you wish to post your own opinions that are controversial and don't wish to be criticised for them, keep them private or write them down on a pad at home and stick them on your fridge where they will be safe.

If you think my post was aggressive you lead a very sheltered life :shock:

Web Monkey - had a sprite in my hand the whole time and was never frowning at any time. My computer keyboard is in perfect working order. I disagree with your post - thought it was very warranted. What's next - Anstey not pulling his weight?

[Mr bEn]

Aggressive, Internet Rage? Are you guys serious?

Yes.

Piss off troll.

[curious]

CJ will always chase the money.
What ever he does along the way is purely co incidental.
CJ said only yesterday." I've won a championship with them and whether I'm here or not, I'm happy they've survived." CYA CJ.

[fraggs]

I think what you might notice Hav, is that no one actually said that CJ wasn't a good player or that he was no good in clutch. A couple of people seem to prefer Gibbo because he's younger and has great potential. I simply made a vague comment on what appears to be a consistency in CJs attitude that doesn't impress me. No one said we didn't like him as a player or really put forward any opinion on how he performed consistently in clutch situations. And yet you appear to have responded with a strong opinion that isn't entirely related to what anyone was talking about.

The other thing you have to remember is that how come across to other people on this message has nothing to do with how you feel or the look on your face when you're writing the message. If people say that you sound agressive then, well, you kind of have to accept that. Communication is largely about how you are percieved, and if people percieve you as agressive then it doesn't make much difference that you didn't intend to. It requires a certain amount of ignorance to fail to see that other people see you consistently in a particular way and if you're going to continue to post here you need to take responsibility for how you ACTUALLY come across.

If you need convincing, just think of how Stumps comes across. I feel, like you, that at times he can appear to be remarkably condescending, arrogant and dismissive. It's not important that he may not feel that way or intend to give that kind of impression, what's important is that a number of people, you included, percieve him that way. You need to appreciate that the exact same thing happens to you.

[havrilla the gorilla]

I think what you might notice Hav, is that no one actually said that CJ wasn't a good player or that he was no good in clutch. A couple of people seem to prefer Gibbo because he's younger and has great potential. I simply made a vague comment on what appears to be a consistency in CJs attitude that doesn't impress me. No one said we didn't like him as a player or really put forward any opinion on how he performed consistently in clutch situations. And yet you appear to have responded with a strong opinion that isn't entirely related to what anyone was talking about.

The other thing you have to remember is that how come across to other people on this message has nothing to do with how you feel or the look on your face when you're writing the message. If people say that you sound agressive then, well, you kind of have to accept that. Communication is largely about how you are percieved, and if people percieve you as agressive then it doesn't make much difference that you didn't intend to. It requires a certain amount of ignorance to fail to see that other people see you consistently in a particular way and if you're going to continue to post here you need to take responsibility for how you ACTUALLY come across.

If you need convincing, just think of how Stumps comes across. I feel, like you, that at times he can appear to be remarkably condescending, arrogant and dismissive. It's not important that he may not feel that way or intend to give that kind of impression, what's important is that a number of people, you included, percieve him that way. You need to appreciate that the exact same thing happens to you.

Fair enough, I can't doubt your well thought out post generally speaking. What annoys me about this forum, is people speak with generalisations, speculation and their own opinion like it is the gospel truth. Sure if it an opinion of yours you think carries weight, you may be corrected by someone with more knowledge about the situation than you. My goal is not to "convert" you to my way of thinking, but understand people might take offence to a player being put down by ignorance.

I would say none of you really know CJ, so are basing your assumptions on foxsports time out footage and how CJ "perceives" to come across if briefly meeting him in person. His attitude is undoubted and is superseeded by his performances which is what he gets paid for anyway. He gets the job done better than anybody else. I can also tell you that he has heart and was more worried about the club as much as anyone else. Look what Dennis Rodman did for the Bulls, despite his occasional attitude issues. I didn't hear Joey or the team take offence to CJ after the season for his comment.

This whole chasing dollars thing....what would you do in the same situation?

At the end of the day if something needs to be said I will say it. I don't care how I come I across...sorry I don't. I am happy you disagree with me, and was happy to accept your criticism. How I come across to you is subjective, if Stumps had of read my post he probably wouldn't have cared. So saying I come across a certain way is the same as me saying I wasn't angry. To me I wasn't. I didn't swear or highly insult anybody.

I will continue to speak my mind. If you don't like it scim over it or ignore it when you see my name on the side 8)

[havrilla the gorilla]

[quote="havrilla the gorilla":3g0xjcqq]Aggressive, Internet Rage? Are you guys serious?

Yes.

Piss off troll.[/quote:3g0xjcqq]

Who asked you to jump in with that crap loser? You obviously couldn't care less about the Bullets or you are an absolute moron. Probably both due to your desire in "screwing" the new GM who has more networks than anybody in Brisbane and is actually going to promote the game at a grassroots level for a change.

Get bent Mr. CaPs :lol:

[Cracker]

[quote="Mr bEn":1p9wg0rj][quote="havrilla the gorilla":1p9wg0rj]Aggressive, Internet Rage? Are you guys serious?

Yes.

Piss off troll.[/quote:1p9wg0rj]

Who asked you to jump in with that crap loser? You obviously couldn't care less about the Bullets or you are an absolute moron. Probably both due to your desire in "screwing" the new GM who has more networks than anybody in Brisbane and is actually going to promote the game at a grassroots level for a change.

Get bent Mr. CaPs :lol:[/quote:1p9wg0rj]

Man you are comic gold. Please keep it coming.

[WHIPS]

Well if it makes Havrilla feel better it wasn't only CJ who's been shopping around..just ask the Blaze what type of figures Sammy Mac was asking from them in return for his services next season..for obvious reasons (i.e. they'd prefer to keep the club solvent, :wink: ) they declined.

[curious]

$400K.

[Daevo]

He's not the only one...now remind me, what is the theoretical salary cap :roll:

[WebMonkey]

Nice post Fraggs. Couldn't have said it better myself.

Gorilla, all I said was Would have been good to keep CJ, but out of him and Gibbo I'd rather Gibbo stayed anyway...

If something as vanilla as that gets your colon in a twist, you have some serious type-a issues dude...

And you'll also be disagreeing with 99% of people that know anything about the game if you think it'd be better long term to keep a 32 yr old CJ over a 21 yr old Gibbo. I love CJ too, but Gibbo is the keeper if you're a GM in charge of the team's future and $$.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Man you are comic gold. Please keep it coming.

Anytime. I aim to please.... :P

[havrilla the gorilla]

This is not a slight on Gibson, who is probably more important in the long run..


And you'll also be disagreeing with 99% of people that know anything about the game if you think it'd be better long term to keep a 32 yr old CJ over a 21 yr old Gibbo. I love CJ too, but Gibbo is the keeper if you're a GM in charge of the team's future and $$.

Did you read my post? :?

[XL]

With the bullets potentially losing some key players, this might be a perfect opportunity to start giving the opportunities to some young guys. Management is high on Goulding and Gurney, for the future, great give them a go. Sure it may make for an inexperienced backcourt and a West Sydney 07/08 type season, but I'd be prepared to make that sacrifice for the potential future, not to mention financial viability of the club.

[havrilla the gorilla]

With the bullets potentially losing some key players, this might be a perfect opportunity to start giving the opportunities to some young guys. Management is high on Goulding and Gurney, for the future, great give them a go. Sure it may make for an inexperienced backcourt and a West Sydney 07/08 type season, but I'd be prepared to make that sacrifice for the potential future, not to mention financial viability of the club.

Definately with you on Bubbles, not sure about Gurney. I know he has had limited opportunities, but you can show how well you deal with pressure and matchup defensively against opponents at NBL level. I thought Goulding showed promise. I have no problem with some younger development type players getting a run as long as their is predominanty enough quality to be competitive. Times are still shaky and the last thing we need is a below par team that plays unattractive basketball alienating fans in the process.

[WebMonkey]

Did you read my post? Confused

Yes I did - I disagree with your post - thought it was very warranted. What's next - Anstey not pulling his weight?

So I guess you contradicting yourself by disagreeing with me, yet agreeing with me at the same time...

[havrilla the gorilla]

[quote]Did you read my post? Confused

Yes I did - I disagree with your post - thought it was very warranted. What's next - Anstey not pulling his weight?

So I guess you contradicting yourself by disagreeing with me, yet agreeing with me at the same time...[/quote:yax9rm5w]


if you think it'd be better long term to keep a 32 yr old CJ over a 21 yr old Gibbo....

I never said that. I am not contradicting myself because what I conveyed was totally different in a different context. I believed CJ is important, and Adam will probably become more so, especially if he were a one club player and is running the point in 8 years when CJ is watching at home. I never said keep Gibson over CJ.
Nice Try - you've been reading too many of Stumps old posts. Go and work on your comprehension skills before you try to stich me up. And for the record WM your post wasn't my primary reference for my retort.

[hendrix]

$400K.

cripes iI wonder what he'd want with two good knees?

LOL at NBL's $175,000 'max' contract!

[havrilla the gorilla]

cripes iI wonder what he'd want with two good knees?


Probably $800K, not far from what Townsville threw his way back in the day. That is kind of understandable....it is Townsville.

[isaac]

Are you going to cite a reference? :lol:

[havrilla the gorilla]

Are you going to cite a reference? :lol:

Not today. On Sam - I like being able to walk

On Townsville - last time I went to the Swamp I got cheapshotted in the ribs by a redneck straight out of Deliverance. So again...no :)

[hendrix]

cripes iI wonder what he'd want with two good knees?


Probably $800K, not far from what Townsville threw his way back in the day. That is kind of understandable....it is Townsville.

so what did West Sydney pay him to move to a much more expensive city?

[djrod]

*YAWN*
:roll:

[hendrix]

CJ won't be back...
just heard it announced on the radio

[misty hyman]

CJ won't be back...
just heard it announced on the radio

CJ Bruton leaving Bullets for Europe, although no team was specified.

http://news.smh.com.au/cj-bruton-leavin ... -27ry.html (http://news.smh.com.au/cj-bruton-leaving-bullets-for-europe/20080422-27ry.html)

[Earnie Shavers]

That sucks. One of the NBL's few true (or potential) 'star' players.

[scooterrich]

And no Sam MacKinnon!!
This from the Perth thread

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008 ... 224017.htm (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/04/22/2224017.htm)

This news is on the Bullets site as well.
Uh oh!

[MLS]

But Brad Williamson, Adam Gibson, Dillon Boucher, Mick Hill, Ebi Ere and Chris Goulding are all returning, according to the new transaction ticker on the NBL website.

[angry ant]

So there roster from players remaining and haven't left yet is-

PG: Adam Gibson
SG: Ebi Ere
SF: Dillon Boucher
PF: Dusty Rychart
C: Craig Bradshaw
------------------------------------------
PG: Rhys Martin
SG: Chris Goulding
SF: Mick Hill
PF: Brad Williamson
C: Justin Brown
------------------------------------------
Steven Broom
David Gurney

Still a pretty good team, with a few signings they could be right up there...

[yuma]

Well Ebi wont be back.

I just saw CJ at Carindale having his lunch.

I wonder if CJ going to Europe is similar to what happened when he told the Kings he was going. I would be pretty happy if I was a Perth fan right about now cause I think thats where he will end up.

[DICKO]

Sam is a Tiger

[fahootie]

So there roster from players remaining and haven't left yet is-

PG: Adam Gibson
SG: Ebi Ere
SF: Dillon Boucher
PF: Dusty Rychart
C: Craig Bradshaw
------------------------------------------
PG: Rhys Martin
SG: Chris Goulding
SF: Mick Hill
PF: Brad Williamson
C: Justin Brown
------------------------------------------
Steven Broom
David Gurney

Still a pretty good team, with a few signings they could be right up there...

Isn't Bradshaw gone to Europe?

[Van_Ewen]

Heard bradshaw and also dillon boucher gone. Source Dusty Rychart.

[curious]

Boucher and Gibbo.

[Van_Ewen]

Boucher and Gibbo.


Gibbo too? Who the hell are we gonna put on the court next year?

[curious]

Hard to say if it's true ATM. But that was a whisper I heard today.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Hard to say if it's true ATM. But that was a whisper I heard today.


Have you been speaking to Betty again? :?

[gangsta boo]

I've heard Gibbo gone but that was weeks ago and the sauce (seriously) is very good

[angry ant]

I'm just keeping my trust in NBL.com transaction tracker! 8)

[havrilla the gorilla]

Boucher is gone as well....
http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,865 ... 69,00.html (http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23579730-23769,00.html)

Here is my transaction tracker -

GONE:

BRUTON
MACKINNON
BOUCHER
BROWN

MAYBE:
ERE
BRADSHAW
WILLIAMSON
HILL
RYCHART

HOPEFUL:
GIBSON

We need a really really really good import/s

[curious]

All this talk about Bradshaw leaving may be wrong too.

[JBO]

In todays paper it says that Ebi has agreed to a new contract

[curious]

I guess the combined loss of Sam and CJ will cover Ebi's asking price.

[Da Houndawg #55]

I've heard Gibbo gone but that was weeks ago and the sauce (seriously) is very good
I'd be very surprised if Gibson was there next year as well. You watch him get gobbled up.

[isaac]

Top "free agent" this off-season IMO. Worthington and CJ will cost a bucket and head to Europe whenever they feel like it. Mackinnon is at the tail of his career. Schenscher is unproven at NBL level and has higher aspirations. Meanwhile, Gibson is 8 points, would surely not be prohibitively expensive, still very young, contributes at a good clip, and could run a team for years to come.

[WHIPS]

Top "free agent" this off-season IMO. Worthington and CJ will cost a bucket and head to Europe whenever they feel like it. Mackinnon is at the tail of his career. Schenscher is unproven at NBL level and has higher aspirations. Meanwhile, Gibson is 8 points, would surely not be prohibitively expensive, still very young, contributes at a good clip, and could run a team for years to come.

Very good points. I hope the Bullets make him a priority signing along with Bradshaw and EBi.

[gangsta boo]

[quote="gangsta boo":1y0jp7lk]I've heard Gibbo gone but that was weeks ago and the sauce (seriously) is very good
I'd be very surprised if Gibson was there next year as well. You watch him get gobbled up.[/quote:1y0jp7lk]

oh he has been :wink:

[Julian]

THE Brisbane Bullets have launched a last-ditch bid to keep CJ Bruton, with the star guard seriously reconsidering his decision to quit the NBL club.

...

If Bruton does stay in Australia, it will be either with the Bullets, Cairns Taipans or New Zealand Breakers.

[Voice(s)]

Cairns is the new "Russia", Auckland is the new "Europe" etc. :wink:

[MLS]

So where's Gibbo off to?

[Earnie Shavers]

So where's Gibbo off to?

He's got to take care of his family overseas as well.

http://www.cruisebrevard.com/images/Global/City/MelbourneMap.jpg

[MLS]

Which team "overseas"?

(Hoping he gives me the answer I'm looking for...)

[WHIPS]

Again that article does not discuss Gibson. Are the Bullets quite confident in retaining him or have they dismissed their chances altogether, hence the silence surrounding him?

[havrilla the gorilla]

Again that article does not discuss Gibson. Are the Bullets quite confident in retaining him or have they dismissed their chances altogether, hence the silence surrounding him?


Logically the Bullets would be doing everything possible to retain him one would think. I heard Dragons a few weeks back, then heard he was staying from somebody on here. The media has portrayed him as wanting to stay. The longer the delay the less likelyhood he will stay in Brisbane.

[isaac]

And silence doesn't necessarily mean anything, so I wouldn't read into that. Clubs, agents and players are all busy behind the scenes.

[lawsy82]

My understanding was CJ had already agreed to play in russia, when i gave you guys the exclusive 6 weeks ago.... He aint returning to NBL/bullets you can guarantee that. He has a 2 year 400k per year on the table in russia

[WHIPS]

My understanding was CJ had already agreed to play in russia, when i gave you guys the exclusive 6 weeks ago.... He aint returning to NBL/bullets you can guarantee that. He has a 2 year 400k per year on the table in russia

Did CJ give you that guarantee himself? Kings supporters will tell you that means little.

[Spork]

just got an email from the bullets (on their mailing list) and gibbo has re-signed for 2 years with the bullets with an option for a 3rd. so we have at least 1 player. yay!

[WHIPS]

just got an email from the bullets (on their mailing list) and gibbo has re-signed for 2 years with the bullets with an option for a 3rd. so we have at least 1 player. yay!

Excellent news Spork! Thanks for passing it on.

[lawsy82]

just got an email from the bullets (on their mailing list) and gibbo has re-signed for 2 years with the bullets with an option for a 3rd. so we have at least 1 player. yay!

Excellent news Spork! Thanks for passing it on.

Yeah good sources you had havrilla. gibbo leaving huh?? Apology accepted

[Spork]

can i strut around waving my enourmous e-peen now? or is that reserved for lawsy?

[meg]

Photos would be better.

[scooterrich]

http://www.bullets.com.au/default.aspx? ... y&id=74813 (http://www.bullets.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74813)

[curious]

Bradshaw off to Turkey apparently. 2 seasons.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Yeah good sources you had havrilla. gibbo leaving huh?? Apology accepted

Don't know why I'm even giving you the dignity of a response, but will you be prepared to cop the same abnoxious my shit don't stink/how good am I back in your face when CJ goes to Europe and not Russia? Or better still stay with Brisbane?

As I have already explained just because Gibbo is now staying, doesn't mean he didn't seek a release.

Ha! In your face..... :P :P :P :P

As if. Knob.
PS - You can't accept an apology that wasn't offered.

[lawsy82]

Yeah good sources you had havrilla. gibbo leaving huh?? Apology accepted

Don't know why I'm even giving you the dignity of a response, but will you be prepared to cop the same abnoxious my shit don't stink/how good am I back in your face when CJ goes to Europe and not Russia? Or better still stay with Brisbane?

As I have already explained just because Gibbo is now staying, doesn't mean he didn't seek a release.

Ha! In your face..... :P :P :P :P

As if. Knob.
PS - You can't accept an apology that wasn't offered.

My goodfriend, Russia 2 year deal... I told you this 6weeks ago nothing has changed.. I can 1000% guarantee you he aint staying here

[lawsy82]

Yeah good sources you had havrilla. gibbo leaving huh?? Apology accepted

Don't know why I'm even giving you the dignity of a response, but will you be prepared to cop the same abnoxious my shit don't stink/how good am I back in your face when CJ goes to Europe and not Russia? Or better still stay with Brisbane?

As I have already explained just because Gibbo is now staying, doesn't mean he didn't seek a release.

Ha! In your face..... :P :P :P :P

As if. Knob.

And seek a release from what??? Gibbo was off contract
PS - You can't accept an apology that wasn't offered.

[havrilla the gorilla]

My goodfriend, Russia 2 year deal... I told you this 6weeks ago nothing has changed.. I can 1000% guarantee you he aint staying here


Ok. We'll see. If it comes true I will give you the pats on the back you so desperately crave. If not I will personally watch you eat the biggest slice of humble pie until you vomit.

[Spork]

start clearing room there lawsy...you've got some eating to do sunshine

[Julian]

My goodfriend, Russia 2 year deal... I told you this 6weeks ago nothing has changed.. I can 1000% guarantee you he aint staying here
Ha! CJ has signed with NZ.

[Spork]

munch munch

[WHIPS]

I'd have preferred he sign a lucrative european contract than pull the same stunt he did to Sydney and re-appear in the league with another club.

[havrilla the gorilla]

The only person who didn't see that one coming more than I was Lawsy.

I am gobsmacked and mystified. What a greedy little bastard... :x

http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=ne ... y&id=74816 (http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74816)

[havrilla the gorilla]

[My goodfriend, Russia 2 year deal... I told you this 6weeks ago nothing has changed..

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

I know New Zealand tends to slip under the radar but I would say something has changed. :D
What goes around comes around my good friend.

Maybe Smirnoff can sponsor the Breakers along with Harvey Norman :)

[isaac]

If only Lawsy had predicted that CJ was heading overseas, that would've covered him.

Anyway, have had to hold my tongue regarding this signing for a few days - exciting news for a Breakers fan (well, they're my second team)! Can remember him leading a massive comeback against NZ in Auckland last season - a clutch performer.

[Mr bEn]

Haven't seen it elsewhere, but the Courier reported today that Brad Williamson has asked for a release. I wish him all the best. Apparently being chased by the Crocs and Slingers.

The same article said that Kerle was chasing Anthony Petrie, with Kerle being quoted as saying 'he is very similar to Dillon Boucher.' They couldn't be any more fkn different. Kerle is a goose and I am embarrassed he is running the organisation.

[Van_Ewen]

Wow Mr Ben, you certainly have it out for kerlie. I think Petrie would be an upgrade to williamson. Brad has contributed quite well over the years but i think hes not much more than a junk time player in this league. Good luck to the guy tho.

[curious]

Haven't seen it elsewhere, but the Courier reported today that Brad Williamson has asked for a release. I wish him all the best. Apparently being chased by the Crocs and Slingers.

The same article said that Kerle was chasing Anthony Petrie, with Kerle being quoted as saying 'he is very similar to Dillon Boucher.' They couldn't be any more fkn different. Kerle is a goose and I am embarrassed he is running the organisation.
Oh well. I guess it pays to have rich mates that get you a job. ;)
I thought the Coach should be picking the team Not the GM.
Pertie has already been offered a contract elsewhere. His agent is playing the game and is too smart for his own good. Let alone Petrie's best interests.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Haven't seen it elsewhere, but the Courier reported today that Brad Williamson has asked for a release. I wish him all the best. Apparently being chased by the Crocs and Slingers.

The same article said that Kerle was chasing Anthony Petrie, with Kerle being quoted as saying 'he is very similar to Dillon Boucher.' They couldn't be any more fkn different. Kerle is a goose and I am embarrassed he is running the organisation.
Oh well. I guess it pays to have rich mates that get you a job. ;)
I thought the Coach should be picking the team Not the GM.
Pertie has already been offered a contract elsewhere. His agent is playing the game and is too smart for his own good. Let alone Petrie's best interests.

I would be quite certain all the recruiting roads go through Joey - period. That same article stated Williamson asked for the release not was released. I heard whispers he was wanting out even before Eddy bailed. Sure he would have been handy off the bench again this season for instant offence, but other than spot up in the corner waiting for the ball to jack a three the guy didn't offer a hell of a lot. I would personally love to see Ben Castle in that same role next season. Just think - a three point shooter who can actually play D.

[Mr bEn]

Wow Mr Ben, you certainly have it out for kerlie. I think Petrie would be an upgrade to williamson. Brad has contributed quite well over the years but i think hes not much more than a junk time player in this league. Good luck to the guy tho.

I wouldn't say I 'have it in' for Kerlie. I just recall that he was chased out of the club in the late nineties because he was recruiting duds and couldn't communicate with the players. It seems to me that plenty of people seem to neglect this fact and are still in love with the titles he won in the eighties.

As for Petrie, I wouldn't say he is replacing Williamson. More like Bradshaw, Mack or as Kerlie stated, Boucher. Ugh.

I would have thought that Williamson would only command a reasonable salary, and would not have been an expensive buy for the budget-concious Bullets. Joey worked with him during the last season and helped improve his d, and he's a decent offensive player. Someone I thought would have been handy given the fact everybody is leaving in droves and we'll struggle to put a competitive team on the floor.

[fan since the old snakepit]

[quote="Mr bEn":17oizatr]Haven't seen it elsewhere, but the Courier reported today that Brad Williamson has asked for a release. I wish him all the best. Apparently being chased by the Crocs and Slingers.

The same article said that Kerle was chasing Anthony Petrie, with Kerle being quoted as saying 'he is very similar to Dillon Boucher.' They couldn't be any more fkn different. Kerle is a goose and I am embarrassed he is running the organisation.
Oh well. I guess it pays to have rich mates that get you a job. ;)
I thought the Coach should be picking the team Not the GM.
Pertie has already been offered a contract elsewhere. His agent is playing the game and is too smart for his own good. Let alone Petrie's best interests.

I would be quite certain all the recruiting roads go through Joey - period. That same article stated Williamson asked for the release not was released. I heard whispers he was wanting out even before Eddy bailed. Sure he would have been handy off the bench again this season for instant offence, but other than spot up in the corner waiting for the ball to jack a three the guy didn't offer a hell of a lot. I would personally love to see Ben Castle in that same role next season. Just think - a three point shooter who can actually play D.[/quote:17oizatr]

Are you seriously suggesting Castle is a three point shooter. You have obviously never watched the guy play during his time at the Hawks. I'm not saying he wont be good value to a team as he is one of the hardesst workers in the league. The problem is that he is a very poor shooter who thinks that he is a good shooter and takes way too many three point attempts( 32-126 @ 25% ) last season. That is with wide open shots as his defender is always staying well clear and helping out elsewhere when he is on the perimeter. Get him to play a Boucher like role and just play D, drive and rebound and he can fill a role.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Playing on last years Hawks team would have sunk anybodys three point percentage. In answer to your question, no I didn't watch the Hawks last season(thank god) but have watched Ben Castle first hand light it up for Lang Park and later at NBL level for Brisbane and Sydney. I disagree - he is a good three point shooter but maybe had to jack up three's under pressure when Kavossy got swamped with single figures on the shot clock, or having the offence constantly break down.

He is fundamentally sound and plays good D. I'm not saying he is the best in the NBL beyond the arc but give him an open look and he will knock it down.

[fan since the old snakepit]

Playing on last years Hawks team would have sunk anybodys three point percentage. In answer to your question, no I didn't watch the Hawks last season(thank god) but have watched Ben Castle first hand light it up for Lang Park and later at NBL level for Brisbane and Sydney. I disagree - he is a good three point shooter but maybe had to jack up three's under pressure when Kavossy got swamped with single figures on the shot clock, or having the offence constantly break down.

He is fundamentally sound and plays good D. I'm not saying he is the best in the NBL beyond the arc but give him an open look and he will knock it down.

As usual you dont read or listen very well. What part of "That is with wide open shots as his defender is always staying well clear and helping out elsewhere when he is on the perimeter " dont you understand. Ask Skindog, Stanley, Base Player, kc4mvp etc how open he was. I guess you could also ask any NBL head coach what they thought of his shooting as their game plans all left him open. He took virtually no 3 point shots under pressure. When I look at shooters I judge them on how much they miss their shots by. eg good shooters consistenly rim out or are just short or long, Benny C was all over the place.
Maybe those Hawks fans on here might read this and voice their opinion.

[Stumps]

Castle was a great three-point shooter back when he played for the Kings. I guess he's gone downhill in recent years.

[WHIPS]

I'd find it suprising that the Bullets would consider signing Ben Castle, even when considering their more budget-orientated recruiting objectives.

I don't recall seeing Petrie play last season, what is he like? Offensive focused swing-man? Defensive 3-4 guy? A likely replacement for Williamson or a long term prospect to replace Mac (if that's possible)?

[fahootie]

IIRC, Castle had a good season in about 04 with the Bullets which earned him a trip to a Boomers camp (maybe?) He went downhill the next season, and then dissapeared to the Hawks. I noticed he was playing GBL last wednesday with Lang Park and wondered if he was in town for another reason?

I would be happy to have Benny back, obviously the price would have to be right.

[Stumps]

IIRC, Castle had a good season in about 04 with the Bullets which earned him a trip to a Boomers camp (maybe?)
Yeah, he won the DPOTY award as well.

[gangsta boo]

He was also one of the last few cut from the eventual Athens team as well

[Skindog the Hawk]

IAW fstos - Castle came to the Hawks with decent wraps and on the back of a 10ppg season with the Bullets. Unfortunately he never seemed to find favour with Chocko in the first season - after about 10 games he was 1-of-11 from the field (not even from deep, from the field!) and whilst the season got slightly better once Brendan was gone, Castle's confidence looked shot.

His performance in 07/08 at the offensive end wasn't much better - as fstos said, he was left open by a lot of defences, however he couldn't can the open shot effectively and hence, the lack of interest in re-signing for 2009 one would think.

Nice bloke, yes. Good defender, yes. Effective at the offensive end, unfortunately not.

SD.

[scooterrich]

As nobody else has mentioned it yet (?), the CM today reckons that Ebi Ere is less likely, and that the likely makeup of the team next year will be Gibson, Hill, Greg Vanderjagt (unconfimed), Cameron Rigby (ditto) and Anthony Petrie (ditto), and Dusty Rychart (if he can naturalise in time for the season).

If so, the imports better be good!

[Nerf Herder]

Pertie has already been offered a contract elsewhere. His agent is playing the game and is too smart for his own good. Let alone Petrie's best interests.
Can you narrow down the state, curious? Just thinking that either a Sydney team or southern Qld team would be the more obvious choices for Petrie, if he was moving teams... Anthony had some bright moments last season both offensively (when given the chance - he didn't get too many from what I saw behind Knight and Khazzouh) and defensively (some quality match ups against Worthington... lol...) and definitely has a ways to go, but I think working under Joey would be good for him... he's definitely got the skills to build on...

Was Chuck supposed to be making a decision on the ship-jumping rats today?

[Van_Ewen]

As nobody else has mentioned it yet (?), the CM today reckons that Ebi Ere is less likely, and that the likely makeup of the team next year will be Gibson, Hill, Greg Vanderjagt (unconfimed), Cameron Rigby (ditto) and Anthony Petrie (ditto), and Dusty Rychart (if he can naturalise in time for the season).

If so, the imports better be good!


yea if thats all we've got so far we better get 2 high quality imports, one would have to be a centre and the other a swing man. Signing dusty as an australian would be a great bonus too. I think as bullets fans we'll just have to trust Joey as he did say its gonna be a 2/3 yr plan to rebuild the club to a genuine championship contender.

[SaNMaN]

Steven Weigh is a confirmed signing now too.

[Van_Ewen]

Petrie signed to a 2 yr deal according to bullets website aswell as Stephen Weigh. Good young pick ups for the bullets.

[havrilla the gorilla]

As usual you dont read or listen very well..
No I do - just without your ignorant one-eyed Hawks hat on for two seconds. I already said I didn't see him play for your team last year, so it was based on personal experience and his other two clubs(his Sydney exploits confirmed by Stumps) which is a far more well rounded conclusion over a long period of time.... Unless you are a travelling fan, you only saw home games and the odd Hawks game on fox. Maybe he drilled everything away...however I am man enough to say I might be wrong... maybe you should practice what you preach about reading and listening.
What part of "That is with wide open shots as his defender is always staying well clear and helping out elsewhere when he is on the perimeter " dont you understand...
The part where it is heresay from a so-called expert....
Ask Skindog, Stanley, Base Player, kc4mvp etc how open he was....
No but I'm sure they will be hearing from you for backup :roll:
I guess you could also ask any NBL head coach what they thought of his shooting as their game plans all left him open. He took virtually no 3 point shots under pressure. When I look at shooters I judge them on how much they miss their shots by. eg good shooters consistenly rim out or are just short or long, Benny C was all over the place....

Ehh...no. I'm only on a first name basis with Joey. But I will be sure to ask him next chance I get.

Maybe those Hawks fans on here might read this and voice their opinion.
I can't wait for more enlightenment from the folks down at the 'Gong :P

[isaac]

At Sydney, Castle was a 40-43% 3PT shooter, hence Stumps' fond memories. In the last three seasons, he hasn't beaten 25% from long range and I wouldn't sign him either, especially not with younger players like Petrie and Weigh coming into the Bullets.

Castle reminds me of Mark Nash at the tail of his career, another defensively oriented SF - Nashy's offensive game dropped away, not hitting from outside, etc. Nash was 30-41% from 3PT in his first three seasons with Adelaide, and then couldn't beat 30% in the next three (20% in his final season).

I think Snakepit's comment about percentages for a shooter usually getting open looks is well made. Gorilla, I'm not sure why you're so strongly ridiculing the views of those who would've seen more of Castle play than everyone bar the Hawks players and coaches? Is it just because they don't back up your endorsement of Castle?

[WHIPS]

Great to see the Bullets get Weigh and Petrie, sound like exciting prospects. Also nice to here Mick has re-signed.

3 signing announcements in one day! That's now 4 players signed, 6 more to go.

[WebMonkey]

Benny Castle is a great bloke, awesome defender, but has not shot well in the NBL for a loooonnnggg time. I think he could get his groove back tho with the right coach to get his confidence back up. Definitely a good guy to have on the bench if he's still athletic enough to stop people.

[Mr bEn]

Not that we aren't shot already, but I sincerely hope that Rigby does NOT come here. A shooting guard in a 4 man's body. Ugh. Looks like we're going bargain bin big time.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Not that we aren't shot already, but I sincerely hope that Rigby does NOT come here. A shooting guard in a 4 man's body. Ugh. Looks like we're going bargain bin big time.

Couldn't agree more Skeletor. Your negativity is spot on this time. If he does come here hopefully he can stop off at the Lance Whitnall "healthy" camp on the way.

[havrilla the gorilla]

At Sydney, Castle was a 40-43% 3PT shooter, hence Stumps' fond memories. In the last three seasons, he hasn't beaten 25% from long range and I wouldn't sign him either, especially not with younger players like Petrie and Weigh coming into the Bullets.

Castle reminds me of Mark Nash at the tail of his career, another defensively oriented SF - Nashy's offensive game dropped away, not hitting from outside, etc. Nash was 30-41% from 3PT in his first three seasons with Adelaide, and then couldn't beat 30% in the next three (20% in his final season).

I think Snakepit's comment about percentages for a shooter usually getting open looks is well made. Gorilla, I'm not sure why you're so strongly ridiculing the views of those who would've seen more of Castle play than everyone bar the Hawks players and coaches? Is it just because they don't back up your endorsement of Castle?

I wouldn't say ridiculing just merely disagreeing. A more apt example of ridicule would be Hawks boy stating "which part do I not understand" while ramming an opinion down my neck without properly analysing mine. At the end of the day as usual all of these things come down to subjective views. I wouldn't sign Castle over Weigh or Petrie either, but you are being very hasty with only 4 players signed to close the door on the idea. My original post suggested Castle would be an ideal replacement for Williamson due to a stronger defensive game and the ability to also hit the three. I am not the Bullets GM so you don't have to worry about it coming true based on my idea so I don't know why you guys are making such a big deal about it.
the views of those who would've seen more of Castle play than everyone bar the Hawks players and coaches??
I never based my view on his time at the Hawks. I based it on his career and I have seen plenty of him to form a judgment with the best of them other than the obvious in the industry. Sure his last season with the Hawks will be the most heavily scrutinised for potential recruiters, and age is not on his side but plenty of players have increased performance in conjunction with a change of club.

It never ceases to amaze me on this forum how people can jump down your throat with their own ideas and then get all precious and sanctimonious when someone hits back. I'm not a bad guy I'm just misunderstood 8)

[WHIPS]

So with the rumours Rigby and Vanderjagt are also (likely) signed or will sign in the coming days, the team is starting to fill out, unfortunately it's starting to look more like a Razorbacks or Hawks than a Tigers or Dragons..

Is Bradshaw definately gone? If Rychart naturalised, and Bradshaw returned the line-up could be quite decent.

Gibson/Import PG
Import/Hill
Weigh/Petrie
Rychart/Rigby
Bradshaw/Vanderjagt

[JBO]

I doubt Bradshaw will be back. I would like them to sign Darnell Hinson if Ebi is not back this year and also go after either Damien Ryan or Wade Halliwell.

[Mr bEn]

Gibson/Import PG

Gibbo's extremely capable of playing 35-40+ quality mins, we'd be wasting a spot on an import point.

[Silencer83]

So where would you slot the other import then or would you run with one?

If so why are they desperate for Dusty to naturalise before they sign him?

[isaac]

I assume it's because he fills a position where they already have some options at least (Petrie, Rigby, Vanderjagt). They'll want SG and C imports unless someone like Ryan or Helliwell wanted to return to the league.

[WHIPS]

Gibson/Import PG

Gibbo's extremely capable of playing 35-40+ quality mins, we'd be wasting a spot on an import point.

Yes I agree, however given Joey's history to structure guard-heavy Bullets teams, I considered it was a possibility. It was also based on the availability of Bradshaw..by all accounts, they're considering an import centre, which gives me the impression he's gone.

Are they looking to sign two imports or is that beyond the budget this season?

[Silencer83]

I assume it's because he fills a position where they already have some options at least (Petrie, Rigby, Vanderjagt). They'll want SG and C imports unless someone like Ryan or Helliwell wanted to return to the league.

:oops: yep my mistake I forgot that Bradshaw is as good as gone

[Skindog the Hawk]

At Sydney, Castle was a 40-43% 3PT shooter...In the last three seasons, he hasn't beaten 25% from long range.
...
Castle reminds me of Mark Nash at the tail of his career, another defensively oriented SF
...
I think Snakepit's comment about percentages for a shooter usually getting open looks is well made. Gorilla, I'm not sure why you're so strongly ridiculing the views of those who would've seen more of Castle play than everyone bar the Hawks players and coaches? Is it just because they don't back up your endorsement of Castle?

I wouldn't sign Castle over Weigh or Petrie either, but you are being very hasty with only 4 players signed to close the door on the idea. My original post suggested Castle would be an ideal replacement for Williamson due to a stronger defensive game and the ability to also hit the three. I am not the Bullets GM so you don't have to worry about it coming true based on my idea so I don't know why you guys are making such a big deal about it.
the views of those who would've seen more of Castle play than everyone bar the Hawks players and coaches??
I never based my view on his time at the Hawks. I based it on his career and I have seen plenty of him to form a judgment with the best of them...

The issue here is that unfortunately the views on Castle's offensive game need to be based on his previous form, which unfortunately has been horrible (and that's being kind). Castle doesn't have the ability to consistently can the open three and hence, teams leave him open at that end of the floor. His defensive effort is what kept him on the floor at the Hawks, and the ability to shut down opposition 2's & 3's was well-utilised by Cookie.

As for Castle being an "ideal replacement" for Brad Williamson, unfortunately not now. Maybe the 2004 version of Ben Castle, but not the 2008 one.

Not that we aren't shot already, but I sincerely hope that Rigby does NOT come here. A shooting guard in a 4 man's body. Ugh. Looks like we're going bargain bin big time.

Hmmm...when you're looking at "bang for buck", Rigby gives you energy, agility, a rebounder and someone who has genuine scoring range out to 21-22 feet...and does it relatively cheaply one would think. What's not to like???

SD/

[Spork]

Hmmm...when you're looking at "bang for buck", Rigby gives you energy, agility, a rebounder and someone who has genuine scoring range out to 21-22 feet...and does it relatively cheaply one would think. What's not to like???

SD/
his ugly mug? :)

[lawsy82]

I think its pretty safe to say, bullets will finish bottom 2 next season. Unless they get some GUN imports. really is quite sad how in the space of 2 seasons, they go from one of the best teams we have ever seen, to possibly one of the worst rosters we will ever see...

[Stanley]

I think its pretty safe to say, bullets will finish bottom 2 next season. Unless they get some GUN imports. really is quite sad how in the space of 2 seasons, they go from one of the best teams we have ever seen, to possibly one of the worst rosters we will ever see...


"Karma is a funny thing" - Earl
http://img.verycd.com/posts/0509/post-330480-1127300191.jpg


Good to see they didn't fold though.

[curious]

This from Kerle on the NBL website. Re Ebi.
""The price range is just a little bit out of our reach or a fair way out of our reach," Kerle said.
"I've spoken to the agent about it and I'm in the process of going back to him with some new figures and see where we stand.”
"But at the present stage we just wanted to be able to fit Ebi in under the salary cap."

So Brian which one is it?
A little bit or a LOT?
If you seriously think you can fit Ebi under the legal cap you really are out of touch with the NBL.
The GROSS US$ that Ebi (allegedly) clears is far more than several players combined. NETT.

[WHIPS]

This from Kerle on the NBL website. Re Ebi.
""The price range is just a little bit out of our reach or a fair way out of our reach," Kerle said.
"I've spoken to the agent about it and I'm in the process of going back to him with some new figures and see where we stand.”
"But at the present stage we just wanted to be able to fit Ebi in under the salary cap."

So Brian which one is it?
A little bit or a LOT?
If you seriously think you can fit Ebi under the legal cap you really are out of touch with the NBL.
The GROSS US$ that Ebi (allegedly) clears is far more than several players combined. NETT.

Yes, I've heard the same.

Personally I'd rather see the Bullets try for someone like Julius Hodge. Ebi worked well in a system that had the experience and defensive capabilities with Mac, Boucher and Bradtke but he's a pure shooter and not someone that could provide much as a ball carrier or basketball IQ on the court. Considering the youthful direction of Bullets and the loss of CJ and Mac, someone that's capable of effectively switching between 2/3 and can carry the ball would be more valuable.

[havrilla the gorilla]

I think its pretty safe to say, bullets will finish bottom 2 next season. Unless they get some GUN imports. really is quite sad how in the space of 2 seasons, they go from one of the best teams we have ever seen, to possibly one of the worst rosters we will ever see...

I would expect somebody like you to jump off and dismiss them straight away, by shooting your mouth off despite the fact they have only signed 4 players. Non Bullets fans will remind you that the only reason we had a star studded team was the Groves factor, so I'm looking forward to them actually building a team from the ground up with players who actually want to be in Brisbane rather than chasing dollars. Two of the four players signed were standouts at the AIS, and you have no idea about which imports will be here next season. It may still be Ere however unlikely, so the NBL's leading scorer would be apart of the worst roster ever? Even if he doesn't come back every Joey Wright side has played hard and competed. The Australian contingent is nowhere near the worst roster "we will ever see either". Think 99-01.

Do you even go for Brisbane? it sounds like you just love winning so I can give you somebody I know at the Tigers to look after you next season if you like.

[WebMonkey]

I think i'm going to like this team more than any team we've had recently (except the championship year - that was a good one with Hogey and Blackie)

It'll be much more fun to be the young underdog and watch a team grow, than be an underperforming and aging favorite.

[isaac]

Ere: US$195k net.

Webmonkey, I don't blame you - that's why I quite liked the Pigs and Hawks last year. What you have to watch for is a team of misfits rather than developing underdogs. A couple of years back, the 36ers roster was hard to follow as there wasn't much of a sense of ownership. Weigh and Petrie are a good start.

Havrilla, Lawsy didn't say that they wouldn't be a developing team, mostly that they might not be too competitive. Yes, there are still imports to come, and just four players signed, but the pool of local players isn't that big. The free agent list is realistically down to guys like Rigby and Castle (both considering retiring?), Kingma, Dench(?), etc.

Kingma is already signed for this coming season in Sweden.

I think its pretty safe to say, bullets will finish bottom 2 next season. Unless they get some GUN imports. really is quite sad how in the space of 2 seasons, they go from one of the best teams we have ever seen, to possibly one of the worst rosters we will ever see...

What odds are you offering on bullets to not finish in the bottom 2?

[A Really Bad Bass Player]

X, try and go one convo withour gabling ;)

[kc4mvp]

In reply to numerous Castle -posts

I think in some way most people are partially correct but lets qualify some of the statements.

1/ Castle is a great defensive player -- Yes
2/ Castle is a 3 pts Shooter. - Yes but
3/ Castle is not a 3 point shot converter. - Yes
4/ Castle, as is with most old players in their Swan Song eras, has dropped off in his scoring ability. - Yes
5/ Castle for Brisbane is a good buy as a defensive stopping ability for the $. - Yes
6/ Don't rely on his Offensive scoring ability to win you games. - Yes
7/ Castle is GREAT Bloke. - Yes

[A Really Bad Bass Player]

In reply to numerous Castle -posts

I think in some way most people are partially correct but lets qualify some of the statements.

1/ Castle is a great defensive player -- Yes
2/ Castle is a 3 pts Shooter. - Yes but
3/ Castle is not a 3 point shot converter. - Yes
4/ Castle, as is with most old players in their Swan Song eras, has dropped off in his scoring ability. - Yes
5/ Castle for Brisbane is a good buy as a defensive stopping ability for the $. - Yes
6/ Don't rely on his Offensive scoring ability to win you games. - Yes
7/ Castle is GREAT Bloke. - Yes
and we wish him well

[WHIPS]

Is Castle's D still as good as his days at the Bullets? I understand his offense is hit and miss, which is fine as so was Bouchers.

I'd rather see Castle at the Bullets than Rigby, as long as his role is to replace Boucher as the token D guy and not to provide the Bullets offensively. I don't see any value in the Bullets picking up Rigby.

[WebMonkey]

Ere: US$195k net.

Webmonkey, I don't blame you - that's why I quite liked the Pigs and Hawks last year. What you have to watch for is a team of misfits rather than developing underdogs. A couple of years back, the 36ers roster was hard to follow as there wasn't much of a sense of ownership. Weigh and Petrie are a good start.

Havrilla, Lawsy didn't say that they wouldn't be a developing team, mostly that they might not be too competitive. Yes, there are still imports to come, and just four players signed, but the pool of local players isn't that big. The free agent list is realistically down to guys like Rigby and Castle (both considering retiring?), Kingma, Dench(?), etc.

Nobody's allowed to even mention Ench and Bullets in the same sentence. Let's make that a hard and fast rule right now!

;)

[Mr bEn]

I concur ..... 'Dench' is such a filthy word to utter .....

[havrilla the gorilla]

Havrilla, Lawsy didn't say that they wouldn't be a developing team, mostly that they might not be too competitive.


I think its pretty safe to say, bullets will finish bottom 2 next season. possibly one of the worst rosters we will ever see....

Isaac - which part of the above can you possibly interpret as "mostly not that competitive and acknowledging that they would not be developing? Please. The guy has completely shitted on them with those comments. The worst ever?????

I think my reply was justified and apt all things considered.

[fraggs]

I will cry if the Bullets ever signed that so-called "big man". As I like to yell at Axel during games: "my mother plays better D" and "a freaking midget could get more rebounds" etc etc

[isaac]

Isaac - which part of the above can you possibly interpret as "mostly not that competitive and acknowledging that they would not be developing? Please. The guy has completely shitted on them with those comments. The worst ever?????

'Possibly worst ever' is not dissimilar to "not that competitive". He didn't say they weren't developing, just that it looked like they might struggle. Might be excessive gloom, and not that encouraging or positive, but it's hard to disagree that they are likely to take a slide down the ladder given the opportunities still available? I didn't see them suggest they were abandoning the team or were even a fan in the first place.

[havrilla the gorilla]

Is it just me or did Dench take a real dive after leaving the Hawks? I thought he was pretty decent back then, and new he was really struggling with the Tigers and 36's(you would have to be living under a rock not to notice) but didn't realise the extent of his shortcomings and the dislike people here have for him. Not defending him but curious to see if people can pinpoint where it all went wrong or has he always been shit and I missed something at Wollongong...

[fan since the old snakepit]

If you are prepared to take advice from a supporter of a shit team I'll give you the rundown of his time in the Gong. Axel shot the ball very well from the perimeter and in his time at the Hawks he was usefull in keeping the oponents big out of the lane. He shot 45% 3pts in his rookie year and 50% 3pts in our championship year. We also had Melvin Thomas to operate in the block. The big problem with him is that he is ponderously slow defensively and hasa no lateral movement and by the third year coaches were just isolating him and getting the guy he was guarding to take him off the dribble. He has also very few post moves and it looks like the ones that he does are premeditated rather than taking what the "D" gives him. He seems a smart guy but he appears to have little passion and shows no hustle. He has not shown anything since then to convince me that he has improved in any of these areas. Add to that his three point percentage has dropped each year since 2002 and its not hard to see why he is so disliked.

[fraggs]

My most notable observation of Axel is that is actually seems to make opposition centres play better when he's guarding them. I remember watching a very raw Wade Helliwell pull out a monster game against the Hawks and at times it was like Axel's defensive positioning made it easier for Wade to get to the hoop. Sometimes, I swear, the guy just stands to one side and actually opens up a driving lane. I don't know how he does it. On that regard, he's always been that bad, or at least I've always had a very low opinion of him. His rebounding seems to have improved a bit over the years but I just can't abide a big man who plays such woeful D.

[isaac]

Bullets sign Vanderjagt
http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=ne ... y&id=74866 (http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74866)

Rigby next.

[maxxpower]

Another role player.

So the team is looking thus:

Adam Gibson
Michael Hill
Christopher Goulding
Anthony Petrie
Stephen Weigh
Greg Vanderjagt

Plus 2 imports.

Maybe Rychart if he naturalises.

Might give Slingers a run for the spoon me reckons unless they get 2 nasty imports. :)

I presume they would also be looking for some new dev players as both Gurney and Broom have served their 2 years and Goulding getting a spot in the 10. Probably see Martin back though.

[Cram]

I woulda thought Dusty would be a good chance even if he's still an import. He'd be fairly cheap I would imagine, and will probably be able to put up close to 20 and 10 given he'll probably play 35-40mpg. If he gets naturalised its a huge bonus for the Bullets, but I'd say they should take him either way.

[havrilla the gorilla]

The team is really starting to take shape which is good, but the imports chosen will ultimately decide the teams fate for next season. All the players signed(except Gibson) would make a great bench, and may even be an upgrade on last years bench with Weigh and Vanderjagt(definitely an upgrade on Brown) very good players.

My concern is the starting five:
GIBSON
IMPORT GUARD
IMPORT CENTRE
???
???
Is the idea to start Petrie, Weigh or Vanderjagt and then add the imports around them? Are they starting five material?
The ultimate dream would have Ebi back(that would make us competitive at least) and Dusty as a naturalised player with another import big. That would make an awesome starting five with all the latest signings a solid bench. In reality this probably won't happen so you are probably looking at Gibbo with 2 Imports starting, so which Aussies start with him?

[WHIPS]

It's a shame they're looking at Rigby as they could really use a defensive stopper with Mac and Boucher gone. Off the Bench, someone like Castle as a designated defensive role player would be useful. Why sign Rigby? Besides the fact that he is cheap and the FA list is shrinking, they already have a PF in Petrie who can also play SF and would be effective off the Bench.

Gibson/Back-up PG
Import/Hill
Weigh/ Defensive 3-4, Castle would be nice but it looks like Rigby
Dusty(if naturalised)/Petrie
Import/Vanderjagt

[The Cognomen]

The Rig will be coming to Brisvegas :(

http://www.nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74876

[Cram]

How good is Weigh? Is he good enough as a starter in this league? Is he a slasher or a shooter?

I woulda thought Hill may get the nod at starter until Weigh has proven himself?

This team should at least be deep, so given 2 good imports might be able to make a run. Hopefully Dusty can play as a local to give them 2 good 'aussies' to build around.

[lawsy82]

Well, bullets have announced another "key" signing with the addition of superstars vanderjac and Rigby. Add this to the already star-studded line up consisting of Mick hill petrie and gibson, ladies and gentlemen you know oficially have your self a bottom 2 team! I dont care if their imports are allen iverson and lebron this team stinks!!! When you throw in some injuries here and there, phew im predicting 5 victories at the most. And the bullets crowds?? well thats gonna be hilarious. They struggle to get 3000 with an allstar line-up, im not sure how many are gonna turn up to watch an aba level line-up.

[isaac]

If Dusty was going to be naturalised in time, I'm sure another team would've snapped him up already.

I think a team like Brisbane, Wollongong or Perth should take him on (using the import spot this season) with a view to having him naturalised down the track. It would work for the first two teams (rebuilding anyway) and Perth as well (good enough locals already signed, so can afford to take a hit).

[WebMonkey]

I don't mind Rigby's signing. Always thought he was an okay player on other teams. Seems to give it a crack at least, which is what you need on an underdog.

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.

[lawsy82]

I don't mind Rigby's signing. Always thought he was an okay player on other teams. Seems to give it a crack at least, which is what you need on an underdog.

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.

I will put my money down, but i wanna see who the imports are first. So lets wait a while than i will let u know. Its not really fair, because if dusty naturilises. ebi re-signs well than they will finish 3rd bottom and i will lose, so i will keep you posted

[Cram]

I don't mind Rigby's signing. Always thought he was an okay player on other teams. Seems to give it a crack at least, which is what you need on an underdog.

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.

I will put my money down, but i wanna see who the imports are first. So lets wait a while than i will let u know. Its not really fair, because if dusty naturilises. ebi re-signs well than they will finish 3rd bottom and i will lose, so i will keep you posted

And yet you're willing to talk about how much they're going to be rubbish before they sign their imports?

[WebMonkey]

Soft.

[fraggs]

I think you'll find that on-court performance and crowd numbers are not quite as related as "common sense" would suggest. Just look at the Kings. The biggest reason why Brisbane does not get big crowds to the games is because the club lost touch with the local grass roots. It's like Kerle says: there are 4000 juniors playing basketball in SE QLD and barely 100 of them are turning up to watch the Bullets. If he can manage to foster a bit of community spirit in this town again Brisbane will have no trouble maintaining their current crowd numbers regardless of what kind of roster they put together.

Plus this kind of team is going to give us a good indication of how effective a coach Joey Wright really is. You don't need superstars to run an effective full-court trap.

[lawsy82]

I think you'll find that on-court performance and crowd numbers are not quite as related as "common sense" would suggest. Just look at the Kings. The biggest reason why Brisbane does not get big crowds to the games is because the club lost touch with the local grass roots. It's like Kerle says: there are 4000 juniors playing basketball in SE QLD and barely 100 of them are turning up to watch the Bullets. If he can manage to foster a bit of community spirit in this town again Brisbane will have no trouble maintaining their current crowd numbers regardless of what kind of roster they put together.

Plus this kind of team is going to give us a good indication of how effective a coach Joey Wright really is. You don't need superstars to run an effective full-court trap.

fair point about the crowd numbers, i live in SE QLD and agree re: juniors. But you have to remember, 500 seats a game were given away over the years to kids at abc learning. You take those numbers out, you have crowds of 1500-2000 turning up.

Ur comment re: you dont need superstars to run a trap, maybe but you need atleast 1-2 superstars to put the ball in the basket to win games

[fahootie]

Ur comment re: you dont need superstars to run a trap, maybe but you need atleast 1-2 superstars to put the ball in the basket to win games


bullsh!t. You obviously know nothing about ball.

[Silencer83]

If Dusty was going to be naturalised in time, I'm sure another team would've snapped him up already.

I think a team like Brisbane, Wollongong or Perth should take him on (using the import spot this season) with a view to having him naturalised down the track. It would work for the first two teams (rebuilding anyway) and Perth as well (good enough locals already signed, so can afford to take a hit).

The more I think about it the better I like the idea of the Wildcats signing Dusty :!:

[havrilla the gorilla]

I don't mind Rigby's signing. Always thought he was an okay player on other teams. Seems to give it a crack at least, which is what you need on an underdog.

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.

I will put my money down, but i wanna see who the imports are first. So lets wait a while than i will let u know. Its not really fair, because if dusty naturilises. ebi re-signs well than they will finish 3rd bottom and i will lose, so i will keep you posted


Count me in - let's not wait and see make the bet now. Stick to your guns and stand by your convictions. Otherwise you are basically admitting you don't believe in what you post and are only writing for shock value and annoyance. The terms: 6 or more wins for Brisbane and/or 11th place or higher. If you have any backbone and wish to save face you will take this bet now.

[havrilla the gorilla]

How good is Weigh? Is he good enough as a starter in this league? Is he a slasher or a shooter?

I woulda thought Hill may get the nod at starter until Weigh has proven himself?

This team should at least be deep, so given 2 good imports might be able to make a run. Hopefully Dusty can play as a local to give them 2 good 'aussies' to build around.


Big wraps on Weigh. Apparently he was as good as Patrick Mills at the AIS and has a solid game. Can even play the 3 and maybe the 4 if needed. A top bloke too I've been told. Fingers crossed on the imports - you would do a lot worse than Dusty at the 4, (if you start Vanderjagt at the 5) think Khari, Sheldon or Kelvin :x I love Mick Hill to death I really do - the crowd acknowledgement, the blogs and the website car but he is not an NBL starting guard's arsehole.

[misty hyman]

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.
I will put my money down, but i wanna see who the imports are first. So lets wait a while than i will let u know. Its not really fair, because if dusty naturalises and Ebi re-signs, well than they will finish 3rd bottom and i will lose, so i will keep you posted

Why wait? You already wrote them off 20 minutes beforehand, irrespective of any further signings. According to you, even the imminent signing of Iverson and Lebron (how prescient of you) isn't going to haul them off the bottom.

Well, bullets have announced another "key" signing with the addition of superstars vanderjac and Rigby. Add this to the already star-studded line up consisting of Mick hill petrie and gibson, ladies and gentlemen you know oficially have your self a bottom 2 team! I dont care if their imports are allen iverson and lebron this team stinks!!!

[WHIPS]

Lawsy, I'll take you on with a bet if you want to put your money where you mouth is - name your price - I bet the Bullets will finish higher than bottom 2.
I will put my money down, but i wanna see who the imports are first. So lets wait a while than i will let u know. Its not really fair, because if dusty naturalises and Ebi re-signs, well than they will finish 3rd bottom and i will lose, so i will keep you posted

Why wait? You already wrote them off 20 minutes beforehand, irrespective of any further signings. According to you, even the imminent signing of Iverson and Lebron (how prescient of you) isn't going to haul them off the bottom.

Well, bullets have announced another "key" signing with the addition of superstars vanderjac and Rigby. Add this to the already star-studded line up consisting of Mick hill petrie and gibson, ladies and gentlemen you know oficially have your self a bottom 2 team! I dont care if their imports are allen iverson and lebron this team stinks!!!

Lawsy82 appears to be establishing a narrative of being called out.

I was surprised reading Wright's comments concerning the imports spots. He suggested that an import PG who could create his own shot was the ideal player he was looking for. Whether that means Wright will run an import PG who will play combined minutes along side Gibson and whom will share both the PG/SG role or whether the import PG will play off the bench, running Hill at SG and Gibson at PG. I agree that Hill's effectiveness is his ability to provide leadership and a significant spark off the bench but considering the signings recently (Rigby), it would not come as a surprise to see a starting line-up with Mick in it.

Interesting to also note still no mention of Rychart.

[Mr bEn]

So the Bullets sign the biggest shooting guard in the L aka Rigby. I have always thought of him as a lazy player whose prime objective is to get the rock up as many times as possible. Yet another below-average signing hyped up to the max by the Bullets. FFS.

fraggs - re: juniors. The majority of home games are Saturday nights, which conflict directly with Basketball Queensland's SE QLD junior competition. Kids and their parents who would otherwise come to the games simply can't. Basketball Queensland could do their bit and shift the games to Sunday or Saturday lunch, or alternatively, the Bullet could seek to have the bulk of their home games on Friday evening or Sunday arvo.

havrilla - Weigh playing at the four are you kidding? He is primarily a two but can play some three. Bit rough comparing him to Mills as well.

[Skindog the Hawk]

So the Bullets sign the biggest shooting guard in the L aka Rigby. I have always thought of him as a lazy player whose prime objective is to get the rock up as many times as possible. Yet another below-average signing hyped up to the max by the Bullets. FFS.

As I said before in this thread, obviously a comment from someone who hasn't seen much of Rigby lately... :?

[WHIPS]

havrilla - Weigh playing at the four are you kidding? He is primarily a two but can play some three. Bit rough comparing him to Mills as well.

I thought Weigh was a 3 who could play 2 aswell, not the reverse?

[Bench Warmer]

Amazed that Brisbane are still holding out on Dusty. A proven import who is reliable, big on the boards, naturalising (and wants to find a steady home).

I'd happily have him at Perth. Interesting times...

[WebMonkey]

I'd like to keep Dusty, but I was thinking that we might need more scoring firepower. Although Joey is going on about hard workers in this story - http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,865 ... 69,00.html (http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23655109-23769,00.html)

Isn't that what Dusty does?

[curious]

Whats the story with this guy?
http://www.questnews.com.au/article/200 ... ports.html (http://www.questnews.com.au/article/2008/05/07/27009_latest_sports.html)
I assume that if Wright is going O/S then the isn't up to standard?

[fraggs]

I'm happy enough that Joey will develop a competitive team for next season. One thing I've always liked about him is that he's committed to making his teams play intensive D and he always talks about having guys that "work hard" and "play for the team". These might be cliches but I've seen enough of the Bullets over the past couple of seasons to believe the guy. He took a bunch of superstars and turned them into champions. Now we get to see if he can take a bunch of average-name players and make them good enough to take on the stars we no longer have.

For all of the doom and gloom, the Bullets might well end up coming out of all of this in a better position than ever. Groves gave us a title but he never did much for the profile of the team. The crowds and the excitment that we used to have are a far distant memory but if Kerle is more than just a mouth he might just have the stuff required to get the team back into the public eye. Combine that with some local owners who seem committed to basketball in QLD and, by all accounts, a sensible budget ... there is a definite bright light at the end of what turned out to be a fairly short tunnel.

[AngusH]

Big wraps on Weigh. Apparently he was as good as Patrick Mills at the AIS and has a solid game. Can even play the 3 and maybe the 4 if needed. A top bloke too I've been told.

He had a great game against Washington this past season with 20+ points, but what exactly happened after that, injured or fell out of favour with the coach? I can't remember.

Either way, he has a decent shot of being a performer at the NBL level.

[Poida]

Injury plus a dose of the sophomore yips.

[WHIPS]

Whats the story with this guy?
http://www.questnews.com.au/article/200 ... ports.html (http://www.questnews.com.au/article/2008/05/07/27009_latest_sports.html)
I assume that if Wright is going O/S then the isn't up to standard?

Yeah, I think he's playing out of position at the 5 in the QABL and may be more of a 4 than a 3-4. I read a similar article last week and was impressed with his stats. Would do well to help a team like the Hawks who are also in need of a PF type, maybe even the Blaze (although it sounds like Dave the Carpenter may be joining them).

[Mr bEn]

Slim aka Bryan Jett has been very exciting for the QABL thus far. He is playing the 5 only because the Coastal Suns are so damn short and have few bigs.

Realisitcally he is an NBL 3. His moniker echoes his build - extremely thin, not well built. Good athleticism and very eager, but not sure if he would go so well in a physical competition against professional players. Just some hype from a lowly community newspaper.

[JBO]

In todays paper it has said that the bullets are chasing Aaron Bruce, Daniel Dillion and Luke Cooper for one of the remaining spots and then the other two will be filled by imports.

So the team will probably look like this

Vanderjagt/Rigby
Import/Petrie
Hill/Weigh
Import/Goulding
Gibson/Returning college player

[angry ant]

Wright will scout Baylor's Aaron Bruce, Arizona's Daniel Dillon and Alaska's Luke Cooper while in the US.

[angry ant]

Sorry JBO, didn't see you wrote that...

[SaNMaN]

It still doesn't make sense that they haven't brought Dusty back. If they want a hard working forward then there isn't many that work harder really. If size is the issue then what's the possibility of signing an import centre as well and have Vandy off the bench. That would mean that both Hill and Weigh would start but if Joey does pull off a coup and signs a returning college player ie Bruce then it wouldn't be long before he would start anyways.
I would understand if Dusty wanted to "explore his options" but if it's just the Bullets holding off on him I think that will come back and bite them in the end.

[fahootie]

Bruce or Cooper would help :)

totally agree with the Dusty comments....at least he is a known quantity.

[AngusH]

Wright will scout Baylor's Aaron Bruce, Arizona's Daniel Dillon and Alaska's Luke Cooper while in the US.

I doubt scouting Bruce is really needed - I'd think he'd be the pick of the litter out of the obtainable college guys (ie. excluding Maric). I wonder how a pass-only PG like Cooper would do in the NBL.

[Poida]

Goorj reckons some of the college guys are asking ridiculous amounts of money.

The Dragons are also having trouble securing an under-23 Australian player to fill the mandatory place for young talent on their 10-man active roster.

"Some of the guys coming back from college (in the US) want ridiculous money, six figures," Goorjian said.

"And the kids from the AIS are choosing college over us."

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,23661768-11088,00.html

[isaac]

Great way to combat that - bust the rules a bit more by meeting Ere's demands, etc! ;)

[curious]

I guess BG forgot that leaving the Kings meant leaving behind all the kids that Tomlinson had placed in college that one day might help the Kings. Loys of kids returning BG and not all of them want a lot of money.

[Silencer83]

Surely they could just recruit a SEABL scrub and sign them to a development contract like Perth did with Garlepp last season.

I still don't understand why the Wildcats couldn't have used Dowdell last season?

[WHIPS]

How would Bruce fit in with the back-court? I'd assume he'd start along side Gibson, essentially running with two PGs, something Joey's done in the past. But off the bench, who would be backing up as PG? Goulding's the YAP and is a SG along with Hill and Weigh..An import combo guard off the bench, possibly???

[Cram]

If you're running 2 PG's in the starting line up you dont necessarily need a specialist PG off the bench. Rather you just make sure one of them is on the court at all times. Not hard to manage

[Poida]

I guess BG forgot that leaving the Kings meant leaving behind all the kids that Tomlinson had placed in college that one day might help the Kings. Loys of kids returning BG and not all of them want a lot of money.

That's correct. I know of a few that would be good fits, without the ridiculous asking price.

[WHIPS]

If you're running 2 PG's in the starting line up you dont necessarily need a specialist PG off the bench. Rather you just make sure one of them is on the court at all times. Not hard to manage

Excellent point.

[Stumps]

Goorj reckons some of the college guys are asking ridiculous amounts of money.

The Dragons are also having trouble securing an under-23 Australian player to fill the mandatory place for young talent on their 10-man active roster.

"Some of the guys coming back from college (in the US) want ridiculous money, six figures," Goorjian said.

"And the kids from the AIS are choosing college over us."

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,23661768-11088,00.html
It seems he's missing the point of the YAP requirement. If you're only looking at the sure-fire returnees who are asking for six figures because they're "good NBL starter" quality, and not the next tier down who could actually benefit from (rather than stagnate during) the inevitable 10th man role that will be left for them on the Dragons roster, then you're hardly advancing the development of young Australian talent.

[Poida]

Very true. He should probably be looking at the SEABL or Big V ABA leagues down here for a YAP.

[isaac]

I'm seeing your mouths move, but all I'm hearing is YAP, YAP, YAP.

[curious]

I'm seeing your mouths move, but all I'm hearing is YAP, YAP, YAP.
Indeed. Most people have forgotten to include a YAP player in their 10, or they didn't know.
YAP, YAP, YAP indeed.
The NBL are however unable to provide a list of eligible YAP players as they are supposed to do.

[Skindog the Hawk]

I'm seeing your mouths move, but all I'm hearing is YAP, YAP, YAP.
Indeed. Most people have forgotten to include a YAP player in their 10, or they didn't know.
YAP, YAP, YAP indeed.
The NBL are however unable to provide a list of eligible YAP players as they are supposed to do.

I suppose that calls into question what is the exact eligibility criteria for a YAP???

For all we know, every player from age 18 to 22 (who has not held an NBL contract previously) could be considered to be a YAP. :?

Maybe it'd be better to give a list of players who do not qualify as YAP's.

SD.

[AngusH]

Goorj reckons some of the college guys are asking ridiculous amounts of money.

The Dragons are also having trouble securing an under-23 Australian player to fill the mandatory place for young talent on their 10-man active roster.

"Some of the guys coming back from college (in the US) want ridiculous money, six figures," Goorjian said.

"And the kids from the AIS are choosing college over us."

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,23661768-11088,00.html

Goorj is no doubt talking to the cream of the crop - Maric, Bruce.

If there are indeed others out there expecting that, well, all you gotta do is what until they realise that no one is going to give them that kind of money - not here, not overseas - then ask again in a few months.

[WebMonkey]

http://nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74912

Wow, this came from nowhere. It's always good to get big guys, but leaves me wondering what we're still chasing.

Are they going to have 2 imports or still get a college backup PG and have one import?

Better be a damn good import!

[Young Gun]

Bullets have signed 6'9" Adam Tanner to a two-year deal with the club.
http://nbl.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=74912
Anyone here know much about him?

[JBO]

So it looks like they could be running with 11 players this year.

Vanderjagt 7
Rigby 6
Tanner 3
Hill 5
Petrie 6
Weigh 3
Goulding 1
Gibson 5

36 points used with 2 imports to come and another possible college player

[boz_novocastrian]

http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaab/players/60945

Adam Tanner

.459 fg, .338 3pt, .780 ft, 3.6 rpg, 2.9 apg, 2.3 topg, 0.6 spg, 0.8 bpg, 10.8 ppg

[scooterrich]

Gee, it looks like a cheap roster, in both points and salary (at this stage).

A dumb question, can teams have 11 contracted players, plus the two development players? If so, does that mean the Bullets could still sign Aaron Bruce (as has been flagged) or some other college returnee PG, as well as two imports? They will still have heaps of points left over even if they can sign three more players.

Kerle and Wright had better be able to pull some monster imports out of their back pocket, top drawer or some other location or it is a long season. On the players signed so far, who are the starters apart from Gibson? Hill, Weigh and Vanderjagt :?:

[JBO]

You can only have 10 players and two dev players for a game but other teams have had 11 contracted players in the past.

[boz_novocastrian]

cheap roster, was not this always going to be the case whenever groves could not afford them anymore.

wouldnt goulding still be considered as a dp for 08-09 as he is 20 coming upto 21. dp rules he can be upto 25, also if he has played more than the specified # of games he would then be a yap at worst

[glockers]

Weigh and Tanner - makes Steve Broom returning in any role less likely.

Then again after seeing Broome on the weekend I wouldn't bother with him either. Just picks up scrappy points or easy lay ups when there isn't defence near him.

[boz_novocastrian]

broom to the blaze possibly an upgrade over aucoin

[WHIPS]

cheap roster, was not this always going to be the case whenever groves could not afford them anymore.

wouldnt goulding still be considered as a dp for 08-09 as he is 20 coming upto 21. dp rules he can be upto 25, also if he has played more than the specified # of games he would then be a yap at worst

I think Goulding is the YAP.