Team Thread- Dakota Wizards

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Alright Eric, there's an Albuquerque Thunderbirds team thread so we need ours now.

I don't know what all to talk about right now so I'll just give my input on every player and give a miniature version of my stats sheet by ordering the players by efficiency per 48 minutes.

1. Rod Benson (33.42857143)
I really enjoy watching Rod play. He's currently the most exciting player on the team in my opinion with Renaldo gone. He needs to improve some things, but his field goal percentage is amazing (74.19354839% on 31 shot attempts).

2. Dontell Jefferson (26.66666667)
At the beginning of the season I thought he'd be the one to go if a better player was available for signing, but now I think Dontell is one of our better players. Stat-wise he is way better than Maurice Baker at point. He needs to improve with turnovers and rookie mistakes, but if he keeps playing like he has, I expect him to make an NBA roster in the next couple of years.

3. Quemont Greer (26.19607843)
What can I even say about Quemont? He is simply amazing. With Justin gone, we needed someone to step up and he did. Then, with Renaldo leaving, he stepped up even more. I can't see why the NBA doesn't want him. The arc on his shot is so high that he could hit the moon, figuratively speaking of course, but it works so that's all that matters.

4. Kevin Lyde (24.42105263)
Statistically Kevin is a good player, but sometimes I cannot stand watching him. It seems his only post move is backing down his defender and using his weight to his advantage. Plus, he has a major foul problem, which has been bad when we've been shorthanded. Some things are impressive though. He shoots well up close, he's a good rebounder, and an outstanding blocker, not as good as Justin, though, in that aspect.

5. Curtis Stinson (22.85714286)
At the beginning of his first and only game so far, Curtis did not impress me. However, as the game progressed, I was very impressed with him. I'm concerned with the number of rookies we have currently (3, 4 if Justin comes back and all 3 other rookies stay), but I believe that we have some very talented rookies who could make it to the NBA in the next couple of years. I cannot say much about him yet since he's only played one game so I'll leave it at this.

6. James Maye (21.48837209)
James's stats don't show him as playing well, but I think that he is. He is for sure playing better than he did last year. Obviously the thing with him that I love is his free throws. When the game is on the line, he hardly ever misses. That one game recently (versus Fort Worth maybe?) he missed towards the end of the game, but one exception isn't changing my mind. I think what is holding his efficiency back is that he doesn't have spectacular numbers in blocks, steals, rebounds, or assists. The numbers certainly aren't horrible, but they aren't going to put him near our top efficiency players.

7. Alfred Neale (17.4814815)
It's really hard for me to judge Alfred's performance this season since his minutes are limited, but I'll try. He doesn't really stand out when he's playing, but he does the things that are needed to be done by him. He has good per 48-minute numbers in steals, turnovers, and rebounds, which are very important numbers obviously, especially with Justin and Renaldo gone.

8. Maurice Baker (15.50259067)
I really feel bad for Maurice. His stats just aren't showing his skills and the problem is that his skills are NBA-level. If he would have rested his ankle longer instead of returning to the Wizards at the start of the season, he could be 100% now, but since he's been playing around 29 minutes a game on a hurt ankle, he's not at 100%. However, I feel that it's been very important for our team to have him play even though his stats are not good. He is definitely a great playmaker and leader. The problem right now is that he cannot use his incredible speed, which is what made him such a threat last year.

9. Geoff Husted (14.86725664)
Now I understand that Geoff is coming back from an injury also, but his play has been unacceptable in my mind. His field goal percentage is appalling (36.58536585%) and just watching him play makes me wish he was recovering from his injury instead of playing. He is not getting up and down the court fast enough either. I was actully glad when he got ejected in our home loss versus Fort Worth because I could not stand watching him play any longer while players like Rod were on the bench.

10. Tremaine Fowlkes (-11.0769231)
No, that negative efficiency is not a joke. Tremaine had a horrible first game and a horrible first impression. I know he can be a good player because he's been playing for a long time and he's got plenty of NBA experience. If he's still around with Renaldo and maybe Justin coming back, I'm expecting him to play better, which will not be hard.

That's my two cents on our team right now. Actully, that's more like a dollar than two cents, but you know what I mean.

And make sure to vote for All-Stars. I'd keep voting for Renaldo and Justin since Renaldo is coming back and Justin might come back. I've been voting for only two players in the West (Jeff Graves and Shawn Daniels) and four players in the East (Renaldo, Justin, James, and Quemont with an occasional throw-in of Maurice, Dontell, and Kevin so they get some votes).

So how do you think we'll do on Saturday in Fort Worth. I think we can win if we stop Pops Mensah-Bonsu from controlling the boards and if we stop Jose Barea from driving to the lane, which either ends in him scoring or him kicking it out to a teammate along the perimeter who makes a shot.

[USBasket_EricE]

Looks like there might be a chance for the Wizards in Fort Worth tonight. Jeremy Richardson, a major part of the Flyers team, got the call to the Atlanta Hawks and a "Major" part of the Wizards team is back (but Husted is gone). I still don't understand why Pops and Jose are not back in the NBA yet, but then again, it's tough to be from a team (Mavs) that's a championship contender with the players they've already got. The Wizards have had a week to rest so hopefully they saved all their energy for this weekend series. I'm glad the games are on the road this weekend because I've been under the weather for the past few days and I know I wouldn't feel like going to the games if they were here. Nothing serious, just a nagging cold.

Quemont Greer and Renaldo Major definitely deserve a spot on the East All-Star Team. As for the West, I've been voting for mostly Idaho players. Justin Williams and Andre Brown are in the NBA for good, so they really should be removed from the ballot, along with Jerome Beasley. Actually, there are quite a few players that should be removed now that I look at it better. Some players have been gone for awhile. Well, best of luck to the Wizards.

Where has Idaho come from? They've been nearly unstoppable since their horrible start. Luckily the Wizards have really been the only team that's been able to stop them (2-0). The Flyers broke the big streak, but then they lost the next night. I would really like to see a rematch of the 2004 CBA Championship this year with the Wizards competing against the Stampede for the D-League title. Wouldn't that be something?

In case someone didn't know, the play-offs are formatted like this: The first place teams in each division at the end of the season would automatically play for the division championship. The second and third place teams play a loser-out game to see who would advance to the division finals. The division finals are also loser-out games. The winners from each division would then play a winner-take-all D-League Championship game. I kinda like the idea that the play-offs aren't very long. In the CBA they always had best-of-5 or best-of-3 series' and that always took money out of the pockets. Then again, if the "better team" had a really off-night, they could always make it up in the next games. There's no second chance here.

I wish each team in the league had their own forum linked from their official websites. There were so many members when the Wizards had their own. Too bad the D-League is picky when it comes to team sites.


Well, go Wizards and good luck in Fort Worth!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, we do have a good chance tonight. We just need to stop Barea and Mensah-Bonsu now that Richardson is gone. Ane hopefully the trio of Major, Greer, and Maye (along with some of the other players contributing of course) can dominate.

I guess it's time for my all-star voting to look like this:
EAST:
Renaldo Major
James Maye
Quemont Greer
Kevin Lyde (not going to happen but he's our only forward besides Greer on the ballot)

I've been wondering the same: where did Idaho come from? They are really scaring me right now. However, CJ Miles and Mouhamed Sene have been recalled so that should hurt them quite a bit. I still expect them to stay around the top of their division though. I think a big part of their success has been Jeff Graves. At least according to his stats, he's their best player probably. I just wish he would have made that kind of contribution when he was a Wizard.

I'm not a huge fan of the playoff system. I never liked the CBA winner-take-all championship game even though it worked out for us. Well, besides that the game was in Rockford because of curling. I don't like single-elimination ever. I can see where it could be a good thing, but if your team is the best in the league, it's very unfair. You could go undefeated the entire season (and I know, that's not going to happen in the D-League) and then make it to the championship game and then lose. Now you would obviously be the best team in the league, but you aren't the champions.

¡Vamos Wizards!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Does anyone know what happened to Quemont Greer? He only played 13:16 according to the D-League box score. My mom was listening on the radio and she heard something about a player being carried off the court and that Quemont was a part of it, but she doesn't know if it was Quemont that was hurt or if he was one of the players carrying the player of the court.

[USBasket_EricE]

I listened to the game last night, but evidently not close enough. I have no idea what happened. Quemont hasn't played yet in today's game either, so something must have happened. Not good!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I listened to the game last night, but evidently not close enough. I have no idea what happened. Quemont hasn't played yet in today's game either, so something must have happened. Not good!

Definitely not good. We're having a hard time finding a way to score without him. 60 points in the 3rd quarter is not good at all. I hope it's just a minor thing and he'll be able to play on the 31st or whenever our next game is.

It looks like we'll be giving up first place. :( Hopefully we can get back into the lead before all-star coaches are announced because Joerger deserves the spot.

[USBasket_EricE]

Sounds like Greer took an elbow yesterday and needed like 6 stitches. I didn't hear where he was hurt, but they said he was injured and on the bench. Did Mo Baker get ejected at the end of the game? I couldn't tell what was going on. They were saying something about Joerger and then they said Greer was escorting Baker off the court so I got confused.

I'm starting to hate the Flyers more than the Skyforce now. Sucks losing to a team three times in a row. C'mon Mavericks! Hurry up and recall Pops and JJ!!!!!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Sounds like Greer took an elbow yesterday and needed like 6 stitches. I didn't hear where he was hurt, but they said he was injured and on the bench. Did Mo Baker get ejected at the end of the game? I couldn't tell what was going on. They were saying something about Joerger and then they said Greer was escorting Baker off the court so I got confused.

I'm starting to hate the Flyers more than the Skyforce now. Sucks losing to a team three times in a row. C'mon Mavericks! Hurry up and recall Pops and JJ!!!!!

Yea, I think Mo got ejected. I was on the computer and my mom was listening to the game on the radio in the kitchen so I could faintly hear the game. I heard something about Greer escorting him off also so that must have been what happened.

I can't stand the Flyers either. They're making us look like a horrible team, which we are not. And yes, the Mavericks need to recall Pops and JJ. I bet you they do now that we are done playing the Flyers. That would be just our luck.

This kind of situation would normally put me in panic mode, but since Greer was out for 1 1/2 of these Flyers games and everyone made somewhat of a contribution, I'm not that worried.

The difference came down to three pointers. We were 4-11 and the Flyers were 11-21. Every other statistical category was about equal for both teams. And then I guess you could say that Barea killed us again.

I should probably point out some positives and negatives individually for us.

Curtis:
20 points- definitely a positive
4 turnovers- not the worst number ever, but this number should be lower
7-18 shooting- could be a bit higher, but I'm not worried

Maurice:
11 points- for him that's a good sign; hopefully his points keep going up now
5 fouls & an ejection- not good at all

James:
22 points- very good
6-6 from the line- he just doesn't miss them
5 fouls- for him this is actully an okay thing since it's showing that he is playing more aggressively

Renaldo:
15 points- a bit lower than his average, but the good contribution nonetheless
7 rebounds- not overly amazing, but good anyways

Kevin:
5 fouls- in 15:41 minutes; ouch!

Rod:
14 points & 10 rebounds- double-double; I'm really liking his play as of late
6 fouls- not such a big deal because of the above stat

Tremaine:
10 points- finally he's contributing a bit
6 rebounds- not bad for 23:49 minutes played

Dontell:
17:05 minutes- I'm assuming he didn't play as much since Mo had an okay game
10 points- good for the limited playing time

Alfred:
7 points & rebounds- in 15:10 minutes so nothing to worry about here either

Quemont:
DNP- hopefully he'll be ready to go on Wednesday; if not, someone will need to step up like Quemont had been doing

7 of 9 guys playing had double-doubles = nothing to worry about

We just need to find that chemistry we had and we'll be alright hopefully.

Dang, that was kind of long. :)

[DakotaWizardsFan]

[QUOTE=USBasket_EricE;32930]Did Mo Baker get ejected at the end of the game? I couldn't tell what was going on. They were saying something about Joerger and then they said Greer was escorting Baker off the court so I got confused.[QUOTE]

Here's your answer from the Fort Worth newspaper:

"The teams went back and forth late in the fourth quarter, but Pops Mensah-Bonsu put back a Chris Copeland miss to put Fort Worth up for good with 31 seconds left. It was one of Mensah-Bonsu's game-high 16 rebounds.

Dakota's Curtis Stinson then ran into Barea on his way to the basket and was called for charging.

Corey Santee followed with a short jumper as he was fouled to give Fort Worth a 117-113 lead. Rod Benson fouled out on the play, and the Wizards' Maurice Baker was given a technical foul for complaining to the officials.

Baker earned a second technical seconds later and was ejected. Barea hit both technical-foul free throws, and Santee also made his to make it 120-113."

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I found this article abour Rocky Walls from last year's team and I just thought I post it:

"CBA -- Walls prepared for life after basketball
By DAVE THOMAS
YAKIMA HERALD-REPUBLIC


Perhaps the hardest thing for a professional athlete to do is look past their playing days.

To start making preparations for the time when sports will no longer pay the bills.

Rocky Walls falls into that group -- but not because he lacks foresight. ANDY SAWYER/Yakima Herald-Republic

Rocky Walls drives to the basket against Butte on Jan. 8 in the SunDome.


You see, Walls isn't thinking about his future plans; he's already done something about them.

Walls, along with his mother and sister, have started a business, Home Health Care, where they send out nurses and physical therapists to homes, in the Dallas area, and plan to expand to Miami in the near future.

"I thought it was something we could do on our own," said the 30-year-old Walls, noting that his mother Erica White, and sister Angela Masters have both worked in that field for the past "10 to 15 years."

That's a prime reason why Walls returned to the Yakama Sun Kings for the first time since his rookie season in 1998-99 after a vagabond career outside the U.S. in recent years.

"I didn't want to go overseas. I have a lot of things going on," said Walls, adding that he also got married a year and a half ago and has two daughters.

"It's kind of tough," he said of helping with the business. "I stay on the phone a lot and we communicate through e-mail and fax.

"That's why I knew it would good for me to be in the states (this season). If something comes up, it's easy for me to come home."

Of course the other reason Walls chose the Sun Kings (he played for the Dakota Wizards last season), was the opportunity to reunite with Paul Woolpert, his first pro coach.

"I wanted to play," he said, "but just not for any coach."

Needless to say, Woolpert didn't hesitate to welcome him back.

"Aside from getting a little older, as we all do ... he's still a great defender and rebounder," Woolpert said of the rangy 6-foot-8 forward from Oral Roberts University who has led the Sun Kings in both rebounds and blocked shots seven times in the 15 games he's played this season.

In some ways, Walls might be even a little better today than his first Sun Kings tour because of the experience he's gained in between Yakima stops, Woolpert said.

"He understands what's expected of him and goes out there and does it," Woolpert said. "He's one of those guys I never have to worry about. I know he'll come to the gym and go about his business."

"As a rookie, I was just playing. Now, I still go out and play, but I understand situations better," said Walls, who has provided valuable leadership to Yakama's younger players.

"Over the years, you learn a lot and I try to teach the young guys," he said. "I tell them, but I also let them go through things on their own ... but you make sure they don't fall too hard. That's how the veterans treated me.

"I don't say, 'do this, do that'. I never liked that, and now I try to let them learn on their own."

Hoping to combine all those assets into a package that will catch the eye of an NBA team is another reason Walls stayed home this season, because while still an extremely effective player, his business and family interests are reminders that the NBA window is closing.

"I always want to explore all my options," said Walls, who has played overseas in at least five different countries since his first tour with the Sun Kings.

Even though Walls doesn't post big offensive numbers, his specialized talents make him the prototypical role player that NBA teams are seeking from the minor leagues.

"In the CBA, he, as much as anyone, has an NBA game because of that," Woolpert said of Walls' rebounding and defensive skills. "He'll do exactly what he's asked, and not try to do anything more. He's the type of player who cleans up a lot of messes. He sees situations on the floor defensively and is always in great help position."

"It helps," Walls said of his ability to bring specific skills to a team. "You look on every NBA team and they have eight guys who can score 20-plus points, but they only need two per night, so the other six have to learn roles. Players from here are usually going to fill a void. They don't need a scorer."

Even though time has become Walls' biggest foe, his recent endeavors off the court have provided a rejuvenating effect, particularly at home where he and wife Melody are enjoying their 1 1/2-year-old daughter Sni, and 10-year-old Dominique.

"It's fun. I get a chance to act like a kid again. It keeps me young," said Walls, who doesn't have a specific timetable for leaving the game. "As long as everything is good and my body is fine, I'll play as long as I feel a love for the game. When I don't have that love, then it's time to move on."

Rest assured, Walls will be ready when that day arrives."

I am subscribed to Yahoo! Alerts about the Wizards so I get articles all of the time like this.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Check out the Kings-Wolves game on FSN North tonight at 7:00 PM CT and you might see Justin Williams play :)

Or probably see him sit on the bench, but at least it's seeing him. Let's hope he plays though.

[USBasket_EricE]

Seems like whenever the Kings have called someone up, they never let them play. They snatched up Rodney Buford in 2004, but rarely gave him playing time, at least when the CBA season had been going on. I'm noticing some similarities with Justin Williams. I hope he does well if he does get to play.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Seems like whenever the Kings have called someone up, they never let them play. They snatched up Rodney Buford in 2004, but rarely gave him playing time, at least when the CBA season had been going on. I'm noticing some similarities with Justin Williams. I hope he does well if he does get to play.

I've only seen Justin on the bench tonight. I did miss about 20 minutes of the game, but I don't he was in then.

I'm still hoping that he'll play, but it's down to a 3 point game.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I've only seen Justin on the bench tonight. I did miss about 20 minutes of the game, but I don't he was in then.

I'm still hoping that he'll play, but it's down to a 3 point game.

Well, he didn't play and the Kings won. Double-whammy there. I'm a Wolves fan. :(

[DakotaWizardsFan]

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Feb%204%20vs%2066ers/Tulsa2_Rod8.jpg

I love this pic. I took it after last night's game.


Man, what is up with the team? I've seriously got no clue. I almost want to change my vote on the poll to 3rd place because the Skyforce will pass us with the way we're playing.

I sure hope Renaldo is back for Tuesday's game.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Dang, 4,000 monthly hits on PhotoBucket.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Quemont Greer making the all-star team made me decide to make a graphic on Paint Shop Pro X so I did, but the problem is that I made two different versions and my brother and I are split on which is better. So Eric (and anyone else who wants to reply; I guess it doesn't matter if you aren't Wizards fans) please tell me which you like better.

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Paint%20Shop%20Pro%20X%20Creations/qrough.jpg

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Paint%20Shop%20Pro%20X%20Creations/qrough2.jpg

I might as well show the Renaldo Major ones that I just made. I don't like these as much and it's probably because the big picture of Renaldo only covers half of the image. Here I definitely like the one without the border and words.

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Paint%20Shop%20Pro%20X%20Creations/rrough.jpg

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Paint%20Shop%20Pro%20X%20Creations/rrough2.jpg

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I found this 4-page article about Martynas Andruiskevicius from the Chicago Tribune:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/basketball/bulls/cs-070217marty,1,6507873.story?page=4&cset=true&ctrack=1&track=rss

You might want to read it if you get time.

[USBasket_EricE]

Can't read the article, the Chicago Tribune says I'm not registered. I've read numerous articles about Marty. I found one from some newspaper in Florida while I was working on my senior paper on Dave Bliss. Luckily he's all right. The NBA is probably afraid to send its players to the Wizards now. Awvee Storey gave them a bad name.

[USBasket_EricE]

Oh, and I think Quemont's graphic turned out good. They're both great.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Clicking on that link tells me to register too, but I can access it another way.

Here's the article:

Getting up off the floor

Bulls rookie Martynas Andriuskevicius is optimistic he'll recover fully from serious injuries resulting from a teammate's punch at practice

By Melissa Isaacson
Tribune staff reporter
Published February 17, 2007, 6:23 PM CST


He remembers getting hit, but not hitting the ground. He does not recall the convulsions or suddenly standing up and trying to walk—or much at all about his subsequent three days in intensive care.

But Martynas Andriuskevicius does remember fearing he would die.

You don't forget that.

"When I was in the hospital, doctors tell me, 'There might be complications, or everything will be fine in three days,'" the Bulls center says.

"What sort of complications?" he is asked.

"Die," Andriuskevicius says. "He didn't say it, but I knew it. The way he was talking. I lost my best friend at exactly the same age and I think, 'I am going to die too.'"

To say Andriuskevicius (pronounced An-droo-SKAV-ih-chis) is hard-headed would be only partially accurate.

His head obviously was not hard enough to avoid a fractured skull suffered the morning of Dec. 21 during an altercation with a teammate at practice with the Dakota Wizards, a team in the NBA's Development League.

The Lithuanian-born Andriuskevicius is also 20, his age brings an inherent brand of stubbornness he hardly can avoid.

But he is, at heart, resolute. He is sure, less than two months after the incident that caused speech and hearing problems, that he is "totally fine." He is convinced he will get the go-ahead to play basketball at his next doctor's appointment within the month. And he is also positive he has no interest whatsoever in anything Awvee Storey has to say.

Storey, 29, starred for Proviso West in the mid-1990s before graduating from prep school and going on to Arizona State. He is the player who punched Andriuskevicius in the side of the head after what both describe as a fairly typical practice confrontation.

Before that moment, according to Bulls assistant Pete Myers, both players were "on the verge of making it in the NBA." Today they are on divergent paths, bound by frustration, regret and nagging doubt.

Andriuskevicius, who is 7 feet 2 inches, 240 pounds, says he was going for an offensive rebound and "he hit me in the neck. I didn't say nothing bad."

"I said something like, 'What are you doing?' Someone said that he said I was hitting him all practice, but I didn't even guard him," he recalls.

The 6-6, 225-pound Storey says there was some contact but "all it was, was he approached me, came to my face and he was saying a lot of stuff and I was saying a lot of stuff, mostly to get him out of my face. I hit him once, and that was all she wrote."

Storey is relating this by phone from Germany, where he is playing for Braunschweig of the German Basketball League after being suspended indefinitely and having his contract terminated by the NBDL.

"I still feel really bad about it," Storey says. "Even though I know Marty is going to be fine, I'm still in prayer for him and how he's doing."

The thing is, Storey says, the two did not have any problems with each other. They arrived in Bismarck, N.D., about the same time, two weeks before the incident—Andriuskevicius from the Bulls, to whom he is under contract, and Storey from the D-League player pool, where he was under contract to the NBA after the Nets waived him.

"We were both brand new, we didn't get in our apartments at first and we ate together," Storey says. "We were eating together almost every night. I am still to this day in shock thinking about it because we were fine. Everyone asks me if I had anything against him, and I say, 'No, nothing.' It was just an ugly situation I regret terribly."

Storey expresses remorse


After the punch, Storey remembers having one of those moments when time stands still.

"I looked at him, and everyone was just standing there, frozen," he says. "No one knew how to react. It looked bad from the second he hit the ground. Eventually he got up, but I knew he wasn't all right. I never want to experience that again."


Teammate Renaldo Major was on the sideline but came onto the court to see his roommate "on the ground shaking. Our trainer did a good job of settling him down and then he stood and tried to walk around. But he couldn't."

While an ambulance took Andriuskevicius to the hospital, Major climbed into a team van that returned players to their apartments.

"Driving back in the van, [Storey] was all messed up," says Major, who remains in close contact with Andriuskevicius. "He was so struck by it. He's an excellent guy, a great teammate. He's competitive on the court, but there's no meanness about him. He wouldn't intentionally hurt anybody.

"You never know what's going on inside someone's head, what makes them go over the edge. Two people got damaged that day."

No charges

Andriuskevicius was placed in intensive care with a severe concussion, fractured skull, bleeding in his brain from a 2-centimeter hematoma and six staples literally holding his head together. In his haze, Bismarck police interviewed him, but he declined to press charges.

"There is nothing to come from him going to jail," Andriuskevicius says. "That was not going to help me heal."

Wizards general manager Tom Wagganer then called Bulls GM John Paxson, Paxson called Andriuskevicius' Chicago-based agent Herb Rudoy and doctors in Bismarck consulted with Bulls doctors in Chicago.

"What I heard at first just made you wonder how severe the injury was," Paxson says. "We heard skull fracture and bleeding in the brain, and that's obviously not something that he'll be fine with."

Storey says he tried to call Andriuskevicius a couple of times.

"Even before people said, 'Don't try to call, do try to call,'" he says. "I even called that night just to break the ice, to say, 'I didn't want to hurt you.' I called and I texted. … I want him to know. I would just appreciate him letting me look him in the eye and say, 'I'm sorry. I never meant for it to come out the way it did. If I could go back and take it back, I would.'"

Andriuskevicius spent Christmas in the hospital with teammates and a friend the Bulls flew in.

"I hate hospitals," he says. "I had sinus surgery and got sick a lot of times and was in the hospital with fevers when I was younger, but American hospitals are pretty good. They have single rooms. In Lithuania, you have 10 in a room."

Within a week, he was back in Chicago, though not without persistent reminders of what happened. Andriuskevicius says he had headaches for a week and that his right ear felt blocked, all residual effects.

"I called my mom one time and wanted to speak English because I couldn't speak Lithuanian, I just forgot how," he says. "But she couldn't understand English, so I just listened."

The Bulls have kept him close, having him accompany the team on trips and at practice, where he occasionally stands and shoots but doesn't do much else. He is not allowed to rebound because of the danger of a ball hitting him in the head, and he can't lift weights overhead for the same reason.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Caution prevails

"Head trauma is a serious thing," Bulls team physician Kathy Weber says. "[And] there's something called a second-impact injury. If you're hit again, it doesn't have to be as hard. You can have acute swelling in the brain, the brain can become herniated and people can drop dead in minutes."

Andriuskevicius, though, professes no fear.

"It doesn't scare me at all," he says. "Maybe some guy my size would be afraid of walking through the door and hitting his head, but not me. I'm not that kind of guy."

Rather, as he heals, he becomes an impatient guy.

"Before I just wanted to do a little bit, but now my appetite is growing and I want to practice like everybody, I want to play," he says. "It's hard because all your life is basketball."

Up until now, so much has come easily. He started playing basketball before the age of 3. He learned to speak English a couple of years ago and now speaks it fluently after only four months of listening to music, watching TV and reading.

"I'm not a guy who thinks about the future," he says with a shrug. "I think about today, tomorrow maybe, but not 10 years from now. I'm not a dreamer. Everything in my life comes naturally."

At least until the punch that sent him reeling.

"I didn't realize it was going to happen," he says. "He's just a big coward because he hit me when I wasn't looking. If I was ready, he wouldn't do it because he would be scared."

Asked about Storey's attempt to apologize, Andriuskevicius shakes his head.

"I know he was trying to call me later, almost a month after," he says. "I totally don't care about him. He better not show himself in my eyes. I don't want to see him."

Legal action is still a possibility, Andriuskevicius and Rudoy say, once they see how the injury might impact his career.

"Now I just want to play basketball," says Andriuskevicius, whom the Cavaliers drafted in the second round of the 2005 draft and traded to the Bulls last summer. "My goal is to get minutes on court."

Paxson says the Bulls acquired Andriuskevicius because they were "intrigued by his size and ability to shoot, and I thought we were veteran enough to at least take a look at him and work with him. That was the whole idea at the time."

They sent him to the Wizards to get playing time but now will be "ultraconservative" with him.

"You just don't know," Paxson says of his future. "He was going to have to make considerable progress as a player, but these were the years for him to do that and this is an obvious setback."

Though he is not a dreamer, Andriuskevicius does fantasize about blocking shots—eight, 10, 12 in one game.

"Blocking a shot is more emotional than making a shot," he says.

But he also thinks about his days in the hospital, three days when he believed he would die like his childhood friend David, about whom Andriuskevicius would say only "was in a bad accident. It's hard for me, and it's still hard."

Still, Bulls team physician Brian Cole calls Andriuskevicius' recovery to this point remarkable.

"He has done beautifully," he says. "I would almost go so far as to say he has no appreciable physical or psychological deficits. He is really fortunate he has no residual concerns."

Storey's rocky road

Storey, who appeared in 34 NBA games the last two seasons with the Nets and the Washington Wizards, has a considerably tougher road ahead.

"He has paid a gigantic price already," says his Chicago-based agent, Mark Bartelstein. "The guy has never been given anything. He has had a rough road to success to make it to the NBA at 27. He wasn't drafted, went through all the minor leagues, had to scratch and claw to be given an opportunity to go to training camps where nothing was promised to him.

"We've talked about it, and he knows now he has to rebuild and start from scratch."

Over the last month, Bartelstein has received e-mails and messages criticizing him for calling his client a good guy.

"He's not a villain," Bartelstein says. "He made a mistake, and he feels horrible. I know this has torn him up inside. I've known him for several years, and he has a great heart and this is devastating to him, how this happened and how he's portrayed by people who don't know him.

"It's not excusable, and it's not something you say 'just happened.' It was a terrible thing. But it wasn't like it was premeditated. It's just a horrible situation."

Storey says he spent an "ugly Christmas" at home in Chicago.

"I turned off my phone," he says. "It's still touchy to talk about because never in a million years could I think something like this could happen."

The other night in Germany, he saw the movie "Rocky Balboa" and says he was inspired by something Rocky said.

"He said when you get hit hard, it's how you bounce back from that that you develop character," Storey says. "I will bounce back and I will grow from this."

He did not seem to catch the irony.

misaacson@tribune

[USBasket_EricE]

Hard to believe how serious a punch can be. Surprising nothing like that happened during that Pacers/Pistons brawl a few years ago, or the Nuggets/Knicks fight. I can see the feelings from both sides. It's really too bad that that had to happen.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, it is hard to believe.

Too bad that had to happen for sure. It would've been cool watching Marty get better. I was not impressed at all with him, but maybe after a few more games, he would've gotten used to the team. And Awvee was a very good player.


(By the way, nice signature. That commercial is so annoying.)

[USBasket_EricE]

Well, now the Wizards have Corey Williams. I wonder why the Skyforce waived him?

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Well, now the Wizards have Corey Williams. I wonder why the Skyforce waived him?

When I saw Corey Williams' name pop up in the transactions when the Skyforce waived him, I was wondering that. And I'm also wondering why almost everyone passed on him. We get almost last choice in the player pool.

Too bad Tremaine didn't work out. I thought he'd be a great addition since he had NBA experience. I'm really hoping that Corey will be able to make an impact right away. We may have beaten Fort Worth, but I still don't think we've returned to championship form.

[USBasket_EricE]

We get almost last choice in the player pool.

That's the one thing about the D-League that I don't like. The best team gets the last choice. By hearing Joerger talk about it on Wizards Watch every Sunday night, I'm guessing he doesn't like it either. It would probably be impossible to get Chris Porter if he were to ever try out for the D-League because what kind of team would pass him up? Hopefully Corey Williams can show his talent tomorrow night in Broomfield. The 14ers have been on a losing skid so hopefully the Wizards take advantage.

I've also been wondering about Maurice Carter. Didn't the Wizards reserve the rights to him at the beginning of the season? And he was supposedly going to be ready to play in January. It would be nice to see him back. He reminds me of a time when the Wizards were hoisting a championship trophy!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I've also been wondering about Maurice Carter. Didn't the Wizards reserve the rights to him at the beginning of the season? And he was supposedly going to be ready to play in January.


Yeah, you're right. I have no idea what all went on with that situation, but it seems like we aren't going to be getting them.

When Joerger signed autographs after one of the games he was talking about the player pool thing and how frustrated he is with it. I would be too. What if you're a good team and your best two players would leave? You're no longer the best team probably, but you can't get good players as replacements because according to standings, you still are good.

And the Kings played on TV tonight. Justin Williams only got to play for about the last minute, but I got to see him dunk. He also traveled though, but still. The Kings play on TV about 5 more times (I forgot the exact number) this season so you might wanna watch out for that.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Any idea why we waived James Maye? :confused:

[USBasket_EricE]

I don't know if you got the paper or not, but they signed some guy from Brazil named Leonardo Di Pacce Dos Santos ("Morro" for short). He's a 6' 11" forward. They waived Maye because they had too many players (Chris McCray especially) at his position and he was the odd man out, which is too bad. He was having an excellent season. Joerger commented that Santos speaks Portuguese, but he didn't say whether or not he speaks any English. Just as long as he's a great player! We'll find out tonight against an Idaho team that the Wizards hold a 2-0 series lead over.

But just watch. Maye will go to another team and lead them to the D-League championship.............. or not.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I don't know if you got the paper or not, but they signed some guy from Brazil named Leonardo Di Pacce Dos Santos ("Morro" for short). He's a 6' 11" forward. They waived Maye because they had too many players (Chris McCray especially) at his position and he was the odd man out, which is too bad. He was having an excellent season. Joerger commented that Santos speaks Portuguese, but he didn't say whether or not he speaks any English. Just as long as he's a great player! We'll find out tonight against an Idaho team that the Wizards hold a 2-0 series lead over.

But just watch. Maye will go to another team and lead them to the D-League championship.............. or not.

A few comments on this.
1. Yes, I get the paper.
2. I'm not buying the odd man out thing. I just know something happened. James wasn't exactly playing super well as of late, but he's one of those players you just don't get rid of unless there's a problem.
3. I'm assuming Dos Santos only speaks Portuguese since Joerger said there's a language barrier.
4. Dos Santos didn't play because he refuses to play without a face mask. He broke his nose a couple months ago. He doesn't have a face mask now and for some reason he won't be getting one for a while.
5. Sioux Falls or Fort Worth will pick him up. Unless the lower teams in the league are smart and snatch him from the player pool.
6. Stupid first half tonight! Ugh!
7. If we could only play like we did the last quarter every quarter and every game, we'd be contenders. But for now, I don't see us even having a shot at the championship. The Bakersfield game gave me a very false sense of confidence. I assumed that we were back in form, but obviously we are no where near that. We better start winning or the Toros will pass us and we'll miss the playoffs.

[USBasket_EricE]

Idaho has been unstoppable as of late. I could see them in the championship game. For the most part, they've had the same players on their team all season and they play well together. I'm not seeing that with the Wizards. The Wednesday night game was probably the most exciting all season (just the 4th quarter of course) and it ended in a loss. The Wizards need to connect with each other like the teams from 2002 and 2004 did. It's been a few years since the Wizards have had a player on their team that had fun on the court and got the fans on their feet. Someone like Willie Murdaugh, Chris Porter, Michael Johnson, or Eddie Gill. Players like that help teams win championships. Idaho has Randy Livingston, Eddie Robinson, and Luke Jackson - players that I'm guessing are most likely crowd favorites in Boise. The only name that really comes to mind for the Wizards is Renaldo Major (and possibly Quemont Greer). If the Wizards don't win the championship, I'll go for Idaho. They're one of 3 former CBA teams and they've never won a championship before. They likely would have in 2001 had the CBA not gone bankrupt. But that's ONLY if the Wizards DON'T make it to the championship game, so bad luck to the Stampede for now!!!

It's hard to believe that the Wizards ARE still in first place after all the recent losses. They're lucky that they're not in the Western Division and that Fort Worth has been on a skid as well. But Sioux Falls is rallying and may wind up on top of the standings in a few days. Hopefully the Wizards have good luck against Arkansas, since they play them like a million times this month. They need to watch out for Clay Tucker and Roger Powell though. It's possible that they could combine to score 100 points in a game (highly unlikely, but possible). I want to see some victories again!!!!

The Wizards should waive Santos until he gets his face mask, since it sounds like it could take two weeks for it to be made. They could bring in another guy and have a full roster, which would help. Maybe Shawn Daniels. I was really looking forward to his return when Bakersfield was here, but they waived him before coming here. I'll admit, he's not the most talented player in the world, but he'd feel right at home with Coach Joerger, Maurice Baker, and the fans. He showed great improvement in 2004-2005 with the Wizards; Bakersfield just wasn't the team for him.

I guess I'm not too worried about the Wizards missing the play-offs. What I'm concerned about is whether or not they'll be the top seed. It'd be nice if they were #1 in the Division so they wouldn't have to play in the first-round series. It would also be nice if the games could be played at the Civic Center because I would hate to have them make it to the championship game and not be at home. I don't want to go to Boise or Broomfield (or as far as that goes, LOS ANGELES!!!!!). I'd estimate that a bus ride to those two cities would be somewhere between 14 and 16 hours (and last year, a few days after the CBA season was over, I actually experienced a 33-hour bus ride from Bismarck to the Anaheim/Los Angeles area and back). It's very difficult to sleep on a bus and I really doubt I'd have the money for it around that time. And I really hope the play-off games don't fall on April 22-23 because I'll be in Fargo for some writing competition (which I'll probably do poorly in unless I get lucky). So, Wizards! Start winning some games and stay in first place!!!!!!!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I know what you mean about having a special player. Renaldo seems to get the crowd into it sometimes and same with Rod Benson a lil bit. We just really don't have anyone who does it all of the time.

If the Wizards don't win the championship, I'm going for the Skyforce just because they've been my 2nd favorite team for awhile now for no reason at all. If somehow the Toros snuck past us and into the playoffs, I'd go for them, but I don't see that happening.

I don't see how we can be in first either. If we lose tonight, we aren't though. It would be a shame losing these upcoming games vs. Arkansas since they are 2nd worst in the league. If we can stop Powell and Tucker and actully get some points on the board, we should be fine.

If we'd waive Santos for a couple weeks, would we still be able to pick him up though? Couldn't some other team pick them up if they lost a big man and they decided he could be the replacement? I'd enjoy having someone like Shawn back, but I don't think we'd be guaranteed Santos then.

I'm definitely not very worried about making the playoffs either, but I really think now that we'll be getting that #3 seed and none of the games will be at home. And there's no way I'll be going to a road game even if it was in Sioux Falls. Hopefully the playoffs aren't on those days or Wednesdays either since my brother has CCD on Wednesday nights. And Tuesdays aren't good days either because he often has basketball practice. The only nights that will work for sure are Saturdays and Sundays.

[USBasket_EricE]

From what it sounds like, Dos Santos might be playing tomorrow. At least that's what they were saying on Wizards Watch with Greer and Major. Arkansas doesn't appear to be that big of a problem for the Wizards, but Roger Powell hadn't played that night because, even though doctors cleared him, he still didn't want to risk making his apparent injury worse.

I'm surprised they have games on Wednesday nights since so many people have church that night. The league is small enough to eliminate at least one night of play, so I don't know why they don't. I can understand why the NBA plays games every night since there are twice as many games and more than twice as many teams. But I guess that's the way it is.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, I heard that too. I hope he does play. I'm not exactly sure what to expect from him. His 3 blocks a game in Brazil sounds extremely impressive, but will that carry over to the D-League? Who knows. Plus, the language barrier could be a problem, but like Renaldo and Quemont said, communication in basketball isn't just talking so maybe it'll work out.

I'm assuming that means Powell will be ready for tomorrow then. It'll be harder tomorrow if we have to stop both Powell and Tucker. And plus, our team has a tendency to let another team's not-so-good player become a star (for example, Lance Allred).

I think it's stupid that they have games on Wednesdays. That's the worst day of the week for a game. I prefer weekends, but I know it wouldn't be possible to play all weekend games. A better job could be done with the schedule though. Hopefully my dad will be able to get away from work and take me. I normally could go with my mom on Wednesday nights, but it's parent night so she'll have to go with Ro. And hopefully, he doesn't have practice tomorrow or I might not be going. There's a chance I'll miss my first two games of the season and even worse, on two consecutive nights.

[USBasket_EricE]

Did you notice that Dos Santos' jersey has "Morro" on it? I thought that was his nickname! He must be doing something similar to Nene Hilario by using his "first name" on the uniform. I still don't know what to consider his first name or his last name. There are 5 different parts to it, plus a nickname. Also, I like the #88! That's gotta be the highest number to ever appear on a Wizards jersey!

I missed one game this season (against Los Angeles) and it was the last one before the month-long road trip. It was frustrating because I wasn't the one who had the bad cold and cough. I couldn't find anyone to go with me so I stayed home. Last season, I missed the home season finale because I really didn't care to see another loss (but of course they won it). Aside from those two games, I hadn't missed one since early 2002. But, I should probably get used to it because I'm not getting season tickets next year. I'll have college work to worry about and hopefully a decent job as well. All good things come to an end. But I'll definitely try to make it to a few games. The past 5-6 years have been the best ever and I've got the Dakota Wizards to thank!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, I noticed that. But really what else would he do? Di Pacce Dos Santos? Or just Dos Santos I guess. I'd say just Leonardo is his first name and Di Pacce Dos Santos is his last name. I like the fact that he has such a high number too. I wonder why 88 though, that seems quite random.

I know the feeling of having no one to go with you. I have no one to go to a game with except my family. If my brother can't go with me, then my last resort is my dad because my mom wouldn't go most likely. Plus, my dad is very busy with work so that can be a problem. So far, I've made it to every game and I have a good chance of not missing one this season (hopefully...)

Ah, that really stinks. It'll probably be worse for me because I don't really plan on staying in ND for college. I just really have no desire to. Speaking of college, did you fill out a NCAA bracket this year?

Well, see you at Carpet World tomorrow maybe..

[bballfan007]

What's the word out on Chris McCray. What do you guys think of him? Rate his skills.

[USBasket_EricE]

I didn't fill out an NCAA bracket. I really don't follow college ball too often. I couldn't even tell you who the #1 team is! If I had to, I'd pick Nevada. I don't even know where they rank or how good they are, I just like the state because Las Vegas is there!

I didn't go to Carpet World. I just haven't really done much with meeting the players this year. I only stayed for one session of autographs and that was back when Brandon Armstrong was here. He, Dontell Jefferson, and M. Andriuskevicius are the only three players that I got signatures from this year. I'll try to make it to at least one event before the season's over.

And while I'm on the subject of autographs, I have a long list of players and coaches from other teams to thank for taking time to sign some NBA cards before the games at the Civic Center. Whether or not they read this, at least I'll have said something: Idaho - Ricky Sanchez, Eddie Robinson, Peter John Ramos, and Luke Jackson. Colorado - Julius Hodge. Bakersfield - Yuta Tabuse and Qyntel Woods. Fort Worth - Luke Schenscher and Coach Sidney Moncrief. Tulsa - John Edwards. Austin - Coach Dennis Johnson (RIP).

To answer your question on McCray, bballfan007, I really haven't gotten to see him play that much. He had the flu during the two games with Arkansas. Before that, he did well on the month-long road trip. But I'd rather have James Maye here to be honest. Maybe Bri can evaluate him better? Hopefully he's ready to go for tonight's game against Tulsa.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

What's the word out on Chris McCray. What do you guys think of him? Rate his skills.

Well, Chris McCray was player of the game tonight so I'd say he's pretty good. He's our best free throw shooter this season at 30-31 (96.8%)

I keep track of about every stat imaginable and the one I use to judge players is the Efficiency Per 48 Minutes stat and before this game, Chris McCray was 8th on the team with it. I'm not so sure why he ranks so low. Probably because he hasn't been shooting well (before tonight) and because he doesn't get many rebounds.

I was impressed with him tonight and hopefully he'll continue putting up good numbers because we need him to.

I hope that answers your question.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I didn't fill out an NCAA bracket. I really don't follow college ball too often. I couldn't even tell you who the #1 team is! If I had to, I'd pick Nevada. I don't even know where they rank or how good they are, I just like the state because Las Vegas is there!

I didn't go to Carpet World. I just haven't really done much with meeting the players this year. I only stayed for one session of autographs and that was back when Brandon Armstrong was here. He, Dontell Jefferson, and M. Andriuskevicius are the only three players that I got signatures from this year. I'll try to make it to at least one event before the season's over.

And while I'm on the subject of autographs, I have a long list of players and coaches from other teams to thank for taking time to sign some NBA cards before the games at the Civic Center. Whether or not they read this, at least I'll have said something: Idaho - Ricky Sanchez, Eddie Robinson, Peter John Ramos, and Luke Jackson. Colorado - Julius Hodge. Bakersfield - Yuta Tabuse and Qyntel Woods. Fort Worth - Luke Schenscher and Coach Sidney Moncrief. Tulsa - John Edwards. Austin - Coach Dennis Johnson (RIP).

To answer your question on McCray, bballfan007, I really haven't gotten to see him play that much. He had the flu during the two games with Arkansas. Before that, he did well on the month-long road trip. But I'd rather have James Maye here to be honest. Maybe Bri can evaluate him better? Hopefully he's ready to go for tonight's game against Tulsa.

Well, Nevada was a #7 seed, but they were beat by Memphis today so they're out. I had Texas making the Final Four or Elite Eight (I forgot which), but they lost. Same with Wisconsin. My two finalists are still in the tournament though.

You got Marty's!! I didn't even get him and I had a card for him to sign. LUCKY!! I got everyone else except for Jameel Pugh and Tremaine Fowlkes.

I have Randy Livingston's autograph and Ro got Corsley Edwards and Majic Dorsey. That's all we have from other teams and we just got them because the players came out to the Wizards autograph table.

I still don't know why we got rid of James Maye. Yes, he is better than Chris McCray on a normal night. The thing with it though is that Maye actully played, but he got waived for a guy playing less than 10 minutes a game (Morro). And the only thing I've been impressed with him for is his blocking. That one block was insane!

By the way, here's a team picture I took at Carpet World:

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o304/MajorSkillz7/Mar%2017%20at%20Carpet%20World/CarpetWorld_Quemont_Chris_Morro_Rod.jpg

[bballfan007]

Nice picture. I was at the game too very impressed by his number, he's quite nice too

[DakotaWiz]

How can you not like Morro? For the minutes he gets, he does what's needed to be done. He rarely is passed the ball, but on defense, he's phenomenal. I don't know how close you watch, but he changes a lot of shots, and his blocks get the whole crowd fired up. For a 10th guy, you couldn't ask for much more.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

If I sounded like I said that I don't like Morro, then I just misstated what I was trying to say. I think Morro is a terrific player. My problem is his offense and I can't fairly judge that because like you said, he rarely gets the ball.

All I was trying to say was that I'm not sure why we got rid of James Maye for him. I meant no disrespect to Morro by any means. He's a good player. Hopefully, he'll get some points on the board soon.

And more importantly, hopefully our team will start another win streak. There's a three-way tie for first. And if we get the 3 seed, the only way (I think) to get a game at home would be if we made it to the championship, the 3 seed from the other conference made it to the championship, and we had a better record than the other 3 seed.

[DakotaWiz]

Sorry, I just get defensive with some of the players. Morro definitely can bring some excitement to the team, even if it is on the defensive end. What I heard was that James got an offer to go overseas, and then it was revoked or something, and he never really had his heart in the D-League since. Understandable, since he has had good numbers and not really gotten his chance to make the NBA... I'd probably want to play for the money too. This would also explain why no one else has picked him up. He's probably looking at his overseas options.
From what I've read, he's not very polished offensively, and he doesn't really play down low, more of the European big man style. Lately, we've had enough offense out of our guys anyway, besides last nights game, and I think that comes down to something else.
I'm pretty sure that we need a 1 or 2 seed to get a home game as well, which isn't as big of a deal anymore because of the smaller crowds this year. We used to have huge crowds, I don't know what happened this year... We've got a decent schedule besides Easter weekend anyway, so hopefully we can win a large portion of the rest of our games..

[DakotaWizardsFan]

It's okay. I just didn't want my thoughts to be perceived in the wrong way. As long as Morro keeps playing good D and he doesn't mess us up offensively, I'm completely fine with him. We've got tons of scorers on our team anyway like you said (Rod, Renaldo, Quemont, Darius, Corey, and Chris all average in double-figures and both Kevin and Dontell are very close to doing so also).

What I wasn't sure about was if there would be any series in the playoffs. I was almost sure it was single-elimination, but I got confirmation on that only yesterday. In the lastest "Feel The Magic" newsletter (I don't know if any of you get it), it said that the tentative dates for playoff games if they were to be played here would be:

Divisional Semi-Finals (#3 seed at #2 seed) – Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Divisional Finals (Semi-Final winner at #1 seed) – Saturday, April 21, 2007
D-League Finals (Eastern Winner at Western Winner) – Sunday, April 29, 2007

So it is single-elimination.

Our crowds may be smaller than they used to be, but they are so much better than almost every other team. I think we're either 2nd or 3rd in average attendance and we're the smallest city with a team. My thing about home-court is not home-court advantage as much as it is I NEED to go to the games and if they are not in Bismarck, I can't go. Plus, we've historically been a very bad road team.

I don't understand why they scheduled games on the Easter weekend. It's just stupid. Attendance will be horrible. I'll still be going I'm sure, but still.
Besides a few games, we've got an "easy" schedule the rest of the way. But we NEED to win our two games versus Sioux Falls and the one versus Fort Worth.

Hopefully we can pull off a "W" tonight. We've just got to stop Clay Tucker and Roger Powell. And hopefully Mo can have a good game for once. I really feel bad for him. He's playing so hard, but the stats sheet just doesn't show it. I think he should've waited a couple of months before he came back.

Two more things and I'm done:

1. What ever happened to Maurice Carter? Wasn't he supposed to join the team early this year? I was looking forward to his return.

2. If that's why James left, then I understand completely. The NBA just really hasn't given him a look and he is a very good player. He could still make it, but for now, the thing to do is probably to go overseas.

[USBasket_EricE]

Whoa, I haven't been around here for a week. Lots of new posts!

I guess I was completely wrong about Chris McCray. He stepped it up in that last home game. As long as he stays consistent, I hope he stays with the team.

And yeah, my choice for the NCAA champion was once again a flop, even though I didn't really fill out a bracket. I guess I should stick with the good teams (Kansas, Florida). I'll try to watch the championship game this year since I missed it last year because I was somewhere in the Southwest on a bus waiting for the next stop so I could buy some cough drops to sooth the painful sore throat I had. I ended up reading about Florida's victory the next day at like 6:30 am at some Burger King in Idaho Falls. I'd rather be watching it this time! You're a Kansas fan, aren't you Bri? I'll probably be hoping for them, I guess.

Nice team picture, by the way. I still wish I would have gone to that. Oh, and yeah, I had gotten Marty to sign some cards the first game he was here. I went over to the Wizards bench and caught him shortly after Dennis Johnson had signed some Celtics cards. That was the same game against the Toros that Jay Williams refused to sign the Sports Illustrated cover I had of him. You know, eBay might be the place to find some cards that Marty signed. I know I've seen some on there, and they aren't all that expensive (maybe a couple bucks). I bought an already-signed Jerome Beasley card at the beginning of the season and when the Wizards signed Awvee Storey, I bought one of his cards too. The sad thing about it is that the Storey card arrived the day of the fight, so there went my chances of ever getting it signed! (Thankfully Marty has been able to recover and might be ready to play basketball again)

I hope I don't ever go over the edge with the autographs. I know it's not really something the players care to do when they're warming up and focusing on the game. But I'm usually there early enough when they likely aren't all that focused yet. It's usually the visiting teams whose players I have cards of anyway, so maybe it helps to get them to lose their concentration! Naw, I'm joking! I'd never do that on purpose. A lot of times I think they're shocked and thrilled that a fan of a different team is down there wanting their autograph. It's a hobby that will never get old for me. I'm still waiting for the Thunderbirds to come to Bismarck! I've been waiting for Dijon Thompson all season!

And I couldn't be more excited that the play-offs likely won't fall on April 22-23! I'm looking forward to it now. I just hope the Wizards can get the #1 seed, and have a better record than Idaho or Colorado! Tonight's win in Arkansas has boosted my confidence in them again. Every game counts, even if it is against the worst team in the league!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, lots of new posts (and new people). I just really miss the old forum still though. Great times.

I never thought Chris McCray was bad, but he's sure surprised me the last few games.

My choice for the champion lost. I had Texas A&M (I probably said that already though). Two of my three teams are still in though. And yeah, I'm a KU fan. My other two teams are the Tar Heels and Wildcats (Arizona, not Kentucky or Villanova).

I'm sure I could find some on eBay. I've found quite a few Wizards with cards on there, but I've never gotten them because my family doesn't use eBay. At least I got Jerome Beasley to sign a card. Well, a third of a card. It was one with 3 different players on it. I should really go through my huge b-ball card selection because I could actully have one of the current players. And I really should get players from other teams to sign cards because I've come across tons of cards that I have.

Don't worry about going over the edge. I'm the one who does, even though I do it after the game. I know Rod Benson thinks I'm crazy. I love getting autographs too though. I need to start asking other teams' players to sign something, but I guess I'm just chicken. I've only gotten autographs if a player comes out to the Wizards autograph table area after the game.

I really doubt we'll finish better than Idaho, but I think finishing ahead of Colorado is possible. To finish ahead of Idaho, they'll have to actually lose for once. We can't just win since they've got 3 more wins and 2 less losses.

Last night boosted my confidence again, but it shouldn't have. I remember a few weeks back when we got a win (at home I think), I got very confident, but then we lost a couple. But if we keep getting great offensive numbers and playing solid defense, we're definitely in good shape. Now if only Sioux Falls would lose.

[USBasket_EricE]

I really wish the Wizards would bring back their own forum. It would bring more people back like Mark and Wizpimp. I miss those guys! It would be easier to make more threads too, since I really don't think people would like it if we made a bunch of Wizard-related threads on this D-League forum! This topic is getting pretty full as it is, but lets keep it going!

I think the first time I ever started getting visiting players' autographs was back when the Stampede had Jayson Williams. From there I think it spread to Matt Freije, Anthony Goldwire, and Ronny Turiaf and then into this season. It's usually only if I have one of their cards. I didn't have any of Jayson's or Ronny's at the time, so I just printed off sheets of paper with their names and team logos. I'd still have to say that Ronny is my favorite player to not wear a Wizards uniform. He was one of the most friendly players I'd ever met. He actually sat down and talked to me for a minute or two. The paper I made had his name printed down the middle, along with a watermark of a Gonzaga logo, a few Yakama Sun Kings logos, and a Lakers logo. It wasn't much, but he thought it was cool and wanted to know how I did it. I couldn't have been more excited for him when the Lakers called him up a few weeks later. He's really made an excellent comeback after the heart surgery. Now, if only Kobe Bryant would cool down on his scoring spree, maybe Ronny could have a chance to put some points on the board :D

I really wish I had tried for Lawrence Nelson's sig, since he's the most famous visitor to the Civic Center in pro-basketball history! He was in the CBA every year that the Wizards were and now that the Wizards are in the D-League, he decided not to join a CBA team this year. At least I don't think he has. I haven't checked the CBA website in ages. By the way, how many players usually come out to the table after the game? I'd like to be able to get an entire roster signed at once instead of just one at a time. And do you know if they've updated the rosters lately? I just have the one that I got at the first game.

I never did get to meet Jerome Beasley. He was only with the team for what, 7 games? I really wish he had stayed with the team for the season. It was fun to have a UND alum on the roster.

Tonight's game is really close at the moment, it's late in the fourth quarter and the Wizards have a one-point lead. Hopefully the outcome is good. It would also be nice if Albuquerque could beat Idaho tonight (sorry Stampede fans)!

(There are like 4 or 5 different topics in this post. We wouldn't have this problem if each team had their own forum *HINT HINT OURSPORTSCENTRAL*)

[DakotaWizardsFan]

If this were a Wizards forum, I'd have made a topic of every player. I don't think the T-Bird fans and whoever else has fans here wouldn't appreciate that one bit.

I wish I would've gotten Ronny's autograph. He was one of my favorite college players back when he was wiht Gonzaga. How about Kobe can still score alot but he has to actually pass the ball? I have no problem with him averaging over 30 points a game as long as his teammates actually get to contribute in the points category and not just steals, blocks, rebounds, and assists.

I miss Larry. I don't think he's on a CBA team this year, but I'm not sure. I haven't paid a whole lot of attention to the league. I've only checked how the Skyrockets are doing.

Two players usually come to the table, but one night the entire team came. They'll probably have an end-of-the-year thing again where you could get all of the players. The thing is, that would be somewhere other than the CC (Famous Dave's last year).

And no, as of last game, the rosters were not updated. They probably won't be the whole rest of the season. We've only had 2 or 3 different rosters this year and considering how much our team has changed, that's too few.

Time to check my stats.. Jerome played 9 games and started 7 of them.

Well, we won, no thanks to Quemont's free-throws at the end. Who made the winning shot? My parents listened on the radio and they aren't 100% sure, but they think it was Major. We didn't do a very good job with my keys of the game.

1. Clay Tucker- 32 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals
2. Roger Powell- 18 points, 2 assists, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks

How about our team though? Three guys with double-doubles and four guys with 16 or more points. Wow.

Morro's statline wasn't very good though. 6 1/2 minutes, 0-2 FG, 1 foul, 1 turnover, 1 block, and 0 points. Let's go Morro! SCORE! (Even though defense is his thing)

Yes, we need a separate team forum. It's probably not going to happen though. :(

[USBasket_EricE]

Ok, I'll try to describe it as best I can. With something like 28 seconds left, the Wizards had the ball and when they got it down to their end, they missed and then there were like 2 turnovers by both teams within 3 or 4 seconds. The Wizards eventually came up with the ball and Quemont was fouled with 9 seconds left. After missing the shots, Corey Williams came up with the rebound and put up a shot. It was blocked and went out of bounds with 7 second left. Then, after a timeout, I think it was Mo that inbounded it and Renaldo got it. With .4 seconds on the clock, he put up the shot and made it. The guy on the radio thought there should have been a foul in there somewhere, but there wasn't, thankfully. Then, Arkansas took a timeout and when they inbounded it (trying to do a catch-and-shoot), Renaldo stole it and the buzzer went off. Another win by the Wizards!!!!!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Ok, I'll try to describe it as best I can. With something like 28 seconds left, the Wizards had the ball and when they got it down to their end, they missed and then there were like 2 turnovers by both teams within 3 or 4 seconds. The Wizards eventually came up with the ball and Quemont was fouled with 9 seconds left. After missing the shots, Corey Williams came up with the rebound and put up a shot. It was blocked and went out of bounds with 7 second left. Then, after a timeout, I think it was Mo that inbounded it and Renaldo got it. With .4 seconds on the clock, he put up the shot and made it. The guy on the radio thought there should have been a foul in there somewhere, but there wasn't, thankfully. Then, Arkansas took a timeout and when they inbounded it (trying to do a catch-and-shoot), Renaldo stole it and the buzzer went off. Another win by the Wizards!!!!!

Oh okay, thanks Eric. That sounds exciting. Too bad it wasn't a home game.

No help from SF or FW tonight. Both won. :(

My KU Jayhawks lost :( At least that makes my bracket correct with UCLA coming out of that region, but still.

I've got the same thing happening tomorrow. I like the Tar Heels, but I predicted that the Hoyas would win.

[DakotaWiz]

Well, it looks like Fort Worth is giving us a little help, as they lost tonight. Too bad Sioux Falls doesn't do the same thing. The end of our last game did sound pretty crazy, I listened to it on the internet... Luckily Renaldo didn't get called for an elbow or something as he was shooting.. Don't know how that woulda happened, but that's what the ref wanted. Looking at our upcoming schedule, as long as we play to our ability, the most we should have is 2-3 losses, basically securing us 2nd place because Ft. Worth is 1.5 back and if we beat them, we'll gain an extra game on them too.

College basketball had some good games over the weekend. My bracket isn't looking that great, but I picked Ohio State to win it, and I had Georgetown and Florida in the final 4, but I thought Florida would lose to Kansas. I knew I shouldn't have trusted them.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Bad news for you Morro fans, but otherwise great news (especially for Eric):

Jerome is back! I saw that we reaquired him on our webpage, but until I clicked the article I was so worried that we lost Renaldo or Kevin or someone really good. Not that Morro wasn't; we all agree that he was excellent on defense, but I guess his offense just wasn't strong enough.

---

You're completely right DakotaWiz. Barring a complete collapse, we have a very good shot at second place and perhaps better. We have to win our 2 vs. SF and 1 vs. FW. We can't get a lose and give them a win at the same time.

I'm so mad at myself. When I first filled out my bracket, I had my Final Four 100% correct, but then I thought I put too much trust in 1's and 2's (based on recent years) so I moved Texas A&M into the Final Four and on to winning the championship. My original bracket had Ohio St. beating UCLA in the final, but I changed it to Texas A&M beating UCLA.

And I'm completely mad at my teams too. Not so much Kansas, but North Carolina. We gave the game to Georgetown. They didn't win it; the Heels lost it. What were they? Something like 1-23 at the end and then letting Georgetown go on a 14 (?) point run in overtime.

[USBasket_EricE]

So glad Jerome Beasley is back. When he left, I think that's when the Wizards started losing more and more games. He must be one of those good leaders to hold a team together.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Yeah, probably, him and Mo. Neither of those two have good stats (based on efficiency per 48 minutes), but they certainly help the team. I just wish Mo would have a really good game for once. He really deserves it.

By the way, did any of you guys go to the Season Ticket Holder Family Shoot-around tonight?

[DakotaWiz]

I will agree that Jerome is a VERY good player. Definitely better than Morro. Problem is, K-Lyde and Rod Benson are my 2 favorite Wizards. I always thought that Rod should start over Lyde, but now I doubt he's going to get his chance. He's showed what he can do with minutes.. Oh well, I guess if it improves our team, which it definitely does, I can't be opposed to it. I hope coach plays a bigger line up now though so Rod can still get his minutes. He's averaging more off the bench with the Wiz than Luke Schenscher was starting for Fort Worth, and he got called up!! I hope this doesn't affect the chemistry of the team...

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I will agree that Jerome is a VERY good player. Definitely better than Morro. Problem is, K-Lyde and Rod Benson are my 2 favorite Wizards. I always thought that Rod should start over Lyde, but now I doubt he's going to get his chance. He's showed what he can do with minutes.. Oh well, I guess if it improves our team, which it definitely does, I can't be opposed to it. I hope coach plays a bigger line up now though so Rod can still get his minutes. He's averaging more off the bench with the Wiz than Luke Schenscher was starting for Fort Worth, and he got called up!! I hope this doesn't affect the chemistry of the team...

I completely agree. My favorite Wizards are probably Darius Rice and Renaldo Major, but I'm starting to love Rod and Kevin. For most of the season, I didn't think Kevin was that good. I thought he was just a free-throw missing, fouling constantly big man, which is why I had been thinking that Rod should start over him. Now I'm not sure who deserves the spot more. I think we should have two big men starting since we have so much talent and size at that position. I don't want to take away minutes from our guards, but I think that could be smart.

Do any of you remember at the beginning of the season if both Lyde and Beasley would start? I'm almost sure they did and then when Jerome was able to leave, Quemont replaced him in the starting lineup. And that brings up another question, what about Quemont? If we start a combo of Jerome/Rod, Jerome/Kevin, and Kevin/Rod, then wouldn't Quemont be left out?

Talent-wise it's great having Jerome back, but I think the good chemistry we seemed to have found again could be in jeopardy now. Hopefully not.

---

Vote for Rod Benson:
http://www.usbasket.com/nbdl/nbdl.asp

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I have the right to remain silent about tonight's game. If I do not remain quiet, I will be banned from this board because that is how furious I am with the **** (certain four letter word; three of them are on the court at a time).

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Alright, now that I'm not so mad anymore I can actually talk about last night's game. Those refs just got me so terribly frustrated. There was no way that Kevin Lyde should have returned last night, but it was almost as if he had no choice. We had 5 players at the end of the game and if Lyde wouldn't have returned, those 5 would've played probably most of the second half.

It's really bad when your team gets 5 T's (well, 6 actually, but the one was a Defensive 3 Second) and the other team only gets 1. And Darius I thought was going to get his 2nd T, but luckilly he just walked away from everything.

http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/tbirds_wizards_08.jpg

I thought we played very well last night for only winning by 4. Imagine what the game would've been like without all the chaos. It could've been a blowout.

And Eric, I got another opposing player/coach's autograph. I got Coop to sign a piece of paper (It was all I had, but I found that I actually have a b-ball card of him at my house) and I'm going to frame it along with my ticket, my card, and a Sparks, Lakers, and T-Birds logo. And when I was looking through my cards, I also found Randy Livingston, who I had sign something when Idaho came here. I think I'm going to make a sort of database of my cards so I don't miss them when a player comes.

(Enough from me now. That's 3 straight posts.)

[USBasket_EricE]

Wow. Those had to have been some of the worst refs I've ever seen. In one night, they could have probably topped Ron Arthur, Mark Riggs, and Shannon Bone (if anyone remembers those three stooges from the CBA). Anyone could have done a better job than they did. I'd say there were even questionable calls to Albuquerque's disadvantage as well, but come on, three offensive foul calls in a row to start the game for the Wizards? And just one technical on the T-Birds compared to seven on the Wizards? At one point early in the game I heard Michael Cooper jumped in one of the ref's face and was shouting at him. I didn't see what happened, but I know he wasn't called for anything. They just flat-out sucked. Before the game, one of them ran up the steps in my section for some reason. Had I known how bad (t)he(y) was about to be I probably would have stuck my foot out. I'm only kidding of course! Well, at least the Wizards came out of there with a win.

Good for you Bri, getting Cooper's auto! I suppose you did it early in the game when he was still out there helping the players warm up? I wasn't there early enough to do anything (I have one of his cards too, Skybox 1990). I also had two of Dijon Thompson's cards and I was about to go down when I saw him sit down on the bench for a second during pregame warmup, but he got up before I could even move. When the T-Birds were being introduced, turns out it WASN'T Thompson that I saw sit down on the bench, it was Joe Shipp! I felt better then, since I didn't run down there like an idiot asking a player to sign a card that wasn't his! By the way, he and Shipp do look a little bit alike.

I didn't go to the shoot-around, obviously, or I'm sure that Cooper card would have ink on it right now. I forgot about it and I probably wouldn't have gone anyway.

Too bad Beasley fouled out, but at least he put some points on the board in his return. He just needs to find a niche again and everything will be fine. That is all from me, good luck in Sioux Falls, Wizards (if they even read this)!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I actually don't remember Ron Arthur, but I remember the other two. The refs I remember as being bad are Riggs, Bone, and Jesse Hall.

Actually I did it after the game. I'm done with getting autographs after the game, but I've got to give something to Mo so I go to the table anyway. So last night I'm standing with Ro by the Wizards' tunnel and my mom is on the stairs to get down to where we were standing. After a while, I see people leave the area of the autograph table and I thought there must not be autographs. Then, a moment later, my mom motioned at me and she told me that Michael Cooper was back behind the Wizards' tunnel. So of course, I had to go over there. It was too dark so my pictures really didn't show up, but other than that, it was an awesome experience. Coach Coop seemed really nice. He asked Ro and I a few questions and wrote a little message on our autographs. That is why you should come to the autograph table.
I've got a Dijon card too, but I don't have the guts to ask players before the game, only after.

Eastern Division Playoff Race (through 3/27/07)
http://www.nba.com/media/dleague/siouxfalls/Eastern_Division_Playoff_Race.pdf

I doubt they read this, but if they do, then they just know how even more obsessed I am because I'm not only that way at games, but at home also. Oh well.

Good luck Wizards! Go kick some Sioux Falls butt! I sure wish I could be there, but unfortunately I can't.

And one more thing:
Get more T's!
T= Trophy & Triumph, not Technical
(Aren't I just so creative)

That is all.

[USBasket_EricE]

I almost feel sorry for the Skyforce with their 5-game road trip to end the season. I'm not sure who I'd rather see the Wizards face in the play-offs. Sioux Falls always makes it a better rivalry, but then again Fort Worth has been falling apart since the departure of Pops Mensah-Bonsu and Jose Juan Barea (and didn't they lose J. Richardson and M. Ager too?). Luke Schenscher is gone too. They might be the easier team to play. Hard to say.

Ron Arthur wasn't really a common visitor to the Civic Center, but definitely not one I could forget. I'll never forget the 2003 Play-offs when the Wizards were playing Yakima. He was one of the refs in Game 2 (a loss), where the crowd started chanting "These refs suck" in the 4th quarter. He was also one of the refs officiating the first home game that the Wizards ever lost to the Skyforce (during the 03-04 season). And I think he was even the ref that threw Miles Simon out of the game when Flint's Justus Thigpen tackled him and threw some punches during a game in the 01-02 season. I admit, my memory is a little crazy, but I always knew the games wouldn't go well if that guy was in charge. (I remember Jesse Hall too)

I never thought it was possible to catch any of the other team's players (or coaches) after the games. Sometimes they tell me they'll do it after the game, but I never stick around. I did once, waiting for Jay Williams, but he walked right past me after the Toros lost. So I never tried again. But you're right, you never know who'll be at or near the table!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Current Flyers Roster:
Deji Akindele
Kevin Burleson
Chris Copeland
Ndudi Ebi
Walker Russell
Corey Santee
Curtis Stinson
Anthony Terrell
Terrance Thomas

I think Fort Worth would be easier, but I like playing Sioux Falls more. But I would obviously rather have a better shot at winning so I want to play Fort Worth (not that they are easy; plus Barea or Mensah-Bonsu could come back at any time).

I think I can somewhat remember that Miles-Justus thing just a little bit. Not sure who the ref was though.

And that's why I stay near the table. It's a lot easier than trying to ask players before the game, but it's a thing of chance and hardly ever does anyone come out, but when they do, it's worth it.

By the way, what's the third error in that sentence? I got is=are and errers=errors, but I'm obviously too blind to find the other.

EDIT: Could the third error possibly be that there is no third error, which would actually make there be a third error because the sentence said there is one, making the sentence then true. If that made sense..

[USBasket_EricE]

That's right, they've got Curtis Stinson. I almost forgot about him. I'm thinking Burleson is probably the best player they've got. I haven't really looked at their stats, but I remember him doing well against the Wizards. And they've got Ebi! What a disappointment he was for the Minnesota Timberwolves! Although during his last season with the team, I think he was third in scoring, since he only played two or three games -- two or three really good games. And Anthony Terrell. The last time the Flyers were in Bismarck, I was waiting on the sidelines for Luke Schenscher to sign a card when Terrell came up to me and gave me a high-five. I was wearing a blue sweatshirt so he might have thought that I was a Flyers fan! That was probably the highlight of the night for me since the Wizards lost.

You found the third error! It's the best paradox I know. It was taped on the wall in my physics class last year and I think I figured it out the first time I saw it. I know another one similar to it:

The below statement is false.
The above statement is true.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I'm almost 100% sure that Burleson is the best. I haven't looked at his stats for a long time, but I know that no matter what they say, he's probably the player with the most potential on the Flyers.

I actually got it! Amazing! I'll have to see if Ro can get it.

Ha, that's another good one.

By the way, I hate physics. I'm in Physical Science and we just finished chemistry so we are on to physics and it's weird to me so far. But I don't really like any science so I guess that would make sense.

[bectond]

With Jackson and Ramos gone it looks like the eastern winner now has a clear path to the title. The Skyforce seem to have the most talent for now but Blalock and Johnson are loaners from the Pistons. If they are recalled then Dakota could hold on in the east due to the fact that their bigs (Greer, Benson and now Beasley) are far superior to Sioux Falls.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

With Jackson and Ramos gone it looks like the eastern winner now has a clear path to the title. The Skyforce seem to have the most talent for now but Blalock and Johnson are loaners from the Pistons. However ,if they are recalled then Dakota could how on in the east due to the fact that their bigs (Greer, Benson and now Beasley) are far superior to Sioux Falls.

I also think the Wiz have a very good shot at it. The problem I have is the single-elimination part of the playoffs. If you screw up once, you're out. That sucks bigtime.

Also, don't forget Kevin Lyde with the big men. He's been spectacular as of late.

[bectond]

The season is a little long, there are pros and cons. For one young guys get more practice time in the D-League as opposed to other minor leagues but the season extends into April. The D-League playoffs can't be extended because the NBDL season would run into the Spring league season. Another good thing about the length of the season is the fact that the best ABA and CBA players get four weeks to show off their goods in the D-League after their seasons are done. Moon signed with the D-League last year after the CBA season and so far this year Eric Williams has made the switch. As a fan I like to compare the difference between a players stats in both leagues to gage which league is the toughest. Hopefully with NBDL expansion more CBA guys will make the jump after their season is over and better league strength comparisions can be made by stat guys like myself.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Maybe they could cut down the regular season a couple of weeks then. As long as you play around 40-some games, that's long enough.

THANK YOU RENALDO!!!
EDIT: Maurice (:D Finally), Corey, & Quemont too

Now it's
Dakota --
Sioux Falls 1.5
Fort Worth 3.5

Looking good!! :)

Anyone know why Rice didn't play? I can understand why Lyde didn't, but what happened to Rice? He didn't get hurt last game.

[DakotaWiz]

Renaldo "Mr. Clutch" Major?? I like the ring of it... Think it should be used. Anyway, I am not so against the addition of Beasley anymore. Although he hasn't played well, he's certainly been needed lately, as tonight he, Rod and Q (our only other "big" that played)all had 5 fouls. And, since Rod got the start, I'm happy. I also wonder why Darius didn't play, or Kevin for that matter. You'd think since everyone was in foul trouble, coach might have brought him in. He played in the 2nd half last game, when he got the injury. Oh well, I guess we didn't exactly need him to pull out the W. Hope we can stay hot, have Idaho keep cold, and win with the best overall record in the D-League.. I also hope that we don't have to worry about the 1 game rounds.. I'd like there to be more games, but it would make it a lot longer season.. If they could fit it into a week or something, that'd be alright if they just did a best of 3. Doesn't offer much help, but would be okay if a team had one terrible game...

EDIT: I see Fort Worth has Pops back, which could cause problems. I wonder what happened to Luke Schenscher down there as well... And Morro plays for Tulsa... WOW.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

"Mr Clutch", I'm liking that. I like calling him "The King" too because when I say Renaldo, it often sounds like Ray-Naldo and Ray is how the word for king sounds in Spanish (Rey).

I'm glad that Rod finally got a start. He definitely deserves it. Problem is, he got injured too. Our strength could easily become our weakness because of injuries and foul trouble.

I think it's good that Kevin sat. He really shouldn't have come back into the game after he got hurt, but he kinda had no choice. At least tonight, we didn't finish the game with only 5 players.

I think that Pops has actually been back with them for a while, but the weird thing is that transactions show that he was recalled by the Mavs on 2/24 and they never showed him being on assignment again.

And I guess Morro is with Tulsa. The transactions just made a mistake like I suspected. How can he get 8 points in 21 minutes with Tulsa and no points in 34 minutes with us? But hey, it helped beat the Flyers, so it's all good.

[USBasket_EricE]

What a win! Renaldo rules. He's definitely my choice for MVP. He always come through and he does it professionally. He deserves to be in the NBA and I hope he gets there next season.

CBA update: The Yakama Sun Kings are the 2007 CBA Champions. Players on their team include former Wizards Chris Alexander and Rocky Walls, and familiar names such as Ralphy Holmes, Leonard White, Elvin Mims, and Richard Dionne. 5-time champs. I can't believe it! In all honestly, I would have been shocked if they hadn't won it. They were really the only well-organized team. The CBA was so screwed up this year too. One team folded in midseason which messed up the entire CBA schedule. A few others postponed their season before the season started. The play-offs didn't happen as planned earlier in the season. The Albany coach doesn't know when to shut up. And, the CBA web site didn't update enough, which made me lose interest in writing for the league on USBasket (I pretty much quit writing on USBasket altogether anyway). I'm so glad the Wizards got out of there when they did.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

And if he doesn't make it to the NBA, he's welcome back here. :) But I definitely hope he makes it. He's absolutely amazing. This is not the same Renaldo that I remember seeing with the Skyforce and whatever other teams he was on.

I saw that they won too. Good for Chris & Rocky. They both had to put up with Bliss for a while last year so they deserve it.

Is the CBA starting to turn into an ABA-type league? From that info, it sure sounds like it.

[DakotaWiz]

That's good for Yakama. Sounds like they had a lot of talent on their team.. I didn't really follow the CBA at all this year. Ralphy Holmes was always a fun player to have in town.. He was annoying, but a guy I liked to hate. I think next weekend, the crowd should try getting an "M-V-P!" chant going for Renaldo when he comes out or something. I didn't hear Rod got hurt.. What happened to him? Any word on Darius yet? I wonder if he didn't have the flu like McCray did a little while ago... Since he didn't get hurt and has played well recently, that's what I'm assuming.

[Minor League Man]

So, with their win, did Dakota clinch a playoff berth? Because looking at the standings and schedule, it looks like they did!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I couldn't stand Ralphy, but it was sure fun when he came to town.

I'd love to get an "MVP" chant going. It was fun with that "Refs go home" chant and this would be even better because Renaldo is such a great player. I'd definitely join in the chant.

Well, I really wasn't listening to the game on the radio, but my mom was out in the kitchen and I think I overheard that he hurt his knee. I'm not sure what happened though. He came back in later in the game so he must be okay.

And Darius probably is sick. He didn't get hurt and there's no reason he shouldn't get minutes because we are short-handed and plus, he drains those three-pointers all night.

And yes, we clinched a playoff berth. And if we win just a couple more, we should clinch at least one home game.

[USBasket_EricE]

I really hope Pops Mensah-Bonsu is recalled before the play-offs start. That guy scares me. He's the most talented NBA assigned player in the league this year and his team always seems to snag a win if he's playing for them. Does anyone know if he'd be eligible for any of the awards that the league hands out next week? I'm sure if he was a regular D-Leaguer, he'd snatch up the MVP for sure. But I'm really hoping for Major. I could also see Randy Livingston as a possibility too, but if his team keeps losing like this, that may not happen.

I wonder how they decide the Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award? It must have to do with attitude and a low amount of technical fouls? Is there a veteran D-League fan on here that knows? By the way, I think it's great that they are honoring Collier and Dennis Johnson by naming two of the awards after them. It's a nice way to show respect for them.

Rookie of the Year would be another tough one to decide. Off the top of my head, I'm really not sure who the top rookies are the league. I know Rod Benson and Dontell Jefferson are the rookies with the Wizards, but they aren't always consistent. Someone with a better D-League mind should voice an opinion on this one as well.

And the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year Award! I really want Dave Joerger to take it. But there are 4 others that are almost as equally deserving of it as he is. Bryan Gates got the Stampede out of that 0-5 hole at the beginning of the season and they clawed their way to the top of the league for the most part of the season. Joe Wolf made a huge improvement in his coaching skills from the past few years in the CBA and have coached the 14ers to the play-offs in their first season. Mo McHone showed that he can still coach a team at any level by keeping the Skyforce at a competitive state. Sidney Moncrief has kept the Flyers at among the top of the league, like they were last year with a different coach. And Joerger has once again shown that he can coach at any level as well. Whether it's the IBA, CBA, USBL, or the D-League, his team always has a winning record and they always make it to the play-offs. He's got a bit of a pattern going, beginning in 2001. Title-Title-No Title-Title-Title-No Title... next up is TITLE!!! (I left out his season in the USBL, since he went there right after coaching the Wizards to the 2004 championship and I'm guessing he really didn't have a lot of time to prepare). Whoever takes the award, I'll be glad for them.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Barea scares me probably even more than Mensah-Bonsu, but I really hope that Pops is recalled anyway. He's a rebounding and scoring machine. I'm hoping that he can't take MVP. And good news, I don't think he can. I think you need to play 30 games and he's only played 22.

I'm assuming that's how the Sportsmanship Award is decided, but I've really got no clue. I don't really think the winner would be from our team, but who knows.

I was wondering if Rod Benson would be eligible for ROTY, but I think he is because again, I think the requirement is 30 games and he's played 29. I doubt he'll win. And if he wouldn't win, then Dontell definitely wouldn't. (Not that Dontell is bad; he's an excellent defender)

I'd love to have Joerger win COTY, but it's going to be Gates most likely since the Stampede have the best record. There are some very good coaches, though, so it might not be him. Like you said, Joerger, Gates, Wolf, McHone, or Moncrief are definitely contenders.

Nice pattern there.

And I didn't know that Joerger coached in the USBL. I'm not that smart I guess.

And now I'm off to see the Bobkitties. Sorry Eric. I know you can't stand them.

[USBasket_EricE]

Joerger coached the Cedar Rapids River Raiders during the spring of 2004. I think they had one more win than they did losses and I believe they finished in 3rd place in their division. Almost every team made the play-offs in their format and I think the Raiders were out early. I think it was a similar format to the D-League's with a one-game series at a time.

It's do or die for the Kitties tonight. And I probably shouldn't call them that anymore, one of their players was in my government class last semester, #8 Colton Derickson. He fell asleep a lot and whenever I lended him a pencil, he never gave it back, but it's all good. I've been following them in the standings. I really don't know how it works though. How many games have you gone to? I've never been to one.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Oh okay, thanks.

This was my first game this season and unfortunately, I picked the wrong one. We got down 3-1 early and we had to play catch-up the whole game.

(And I never get pencils back from anyone ever. I've lost like 2 pens and 2 pencils this year at least.)

[DakotaWizardsFan]

¡Es un milagro! (For you non-Spanish speaking people, "It's a miracle!")

We made ALL of our free throws. All 24 of them!

And Mo was one assist away from a triple-double. Maybe he's starting to play like the Mo we all know again, and right in time also.

And what was up with Darius tonight? 1-9 FG and 0-7 3PFG? I thought he was one of our best shooters. I guess not, unless it was just an off night. Hopefully that's the case.

Chris and Renaldo were awesome too.

Our team showed flashes of brilliance tonight, but quite a few times, we did not look like a play-off team.

Now hopefully the Force can lose to the Stampede and the Flyers can lose to the 14ers tonight. We don't really want the Stampede and the 14ers to win, but that would be better than the Force and Flyers winning.

And one more question.. what do you guys think of Quemont Greer right now? I've been noticing some things that I don't like lately.

[Minor League Man]

¡Es un milagro! (For you non-Spanish speaking people, "It's a miracle!")

We made ALL of our free throws. All 24 of them!

And Mo was one assist away from a triple-double. Maybe he's starting to play like the Mo we all know again, and right in time also.

And what was up with Darius tonight? 1-9 FG and 0-7 3PFG? I thought he was one of our best shooters. I guess not, unless it was just an off night. Hopefully that's the case.

Chris and Renaldo were awesome too.

Our team showed flashes of brilliance tonight, but quite a few times, we did not look like a play-off team.

Now hopefully the Force can lose to the Stampede and the Flyers can lose to the 14ers tonight. We don't really want the Stampede and the 14ers to win, but that would be better than the Force and Flyers winning.

And one more question.. what do you guys think of Quemont Greer right now? I've been noticing some things that I don't like lately.
Now that Fort Worth's in the playoffs (thus eliminating Austin), I assume that if the Skyforce and Flyers lose, the Wizards get home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs?

[USBasket_EricE]

Well, tonight's game was a close one. Moe Baker had his game of the season, just missing a triple-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists. Chris McCray was also on fire as he added 22 points. I'd say he's the reason the Wizards won tonight. His three-pointers always kept the Wizards alive and they were truly beneficial. I believe the Toros were eliminated from play-off contention tonight. I feel bad for them. I'm sure it's been a tough season for the players and the entire organization. Had they made the play-offs and the Wizards were to be defeated during the post-season, I would have been rooting for the Toros. But, everything happens for a reason.

From the looks of it right now, the Skyforce will be losing to the Stampede. I would have prefered the victory out of the Force tonight, just to get the Wizards over that peak that the Stampede have built in the West. But, I guess this gives the Wizards some breathing room over in their own division. Also, go 14ers... I think.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Now that Fort Worth's in the playoffs (thus eliminating Austin), I assume that if the Skyforce and Flyers lose, the Wizards get home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs?

Lose when? Tonight? Then the answer is no, but if we were to finish ahead of Fort Worth and Sioux Falls (which is quite possible), then we would. And if we'd finish ahead of all the Western teams, then we get home-court throughout the entire playoffs.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Well, tonight's game was a close one. Moe Baker had his game of the season, just missing a triple-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists. Chris McCray was also on fire as he added 22 points. I'd say he's the reason the Wizards won tonight. His three-pointers always kept the Wizards alive and they were truly beneficial. I believe the Toros were eliminated from play-off contention tonight. I feel bad for them. I'm sure it's been a tough season for the players and the entire organization. Had they made the play-offs and the Wizards were to be defeated during the post-season, I would have been rooting for the Toros. But, everything happens for a reason.

From the looks of it right now, the Skyforce will be losing to the Stampede. I would have prefered the victory out of the Force tonight, just to get the Wizards over that peak that the Stampede have built in the West. But, I guess this gives the Wizards some breathing room over in their own division. Also, go 14ers... I think.

I've been rooting for the Toros ever since they got off to that horrible start. I think they became my 2nd favorite team (with Sioux Falls at 3rd then).

Chris did win the game for us. I'm assuming most of his points were in the 4th quarter. Renaldo was alright down the stretch, but Chris got the spotlight instead.

And I'm kinda the same way with these games tonight. It's like Go Stampede and 14ers!!... oh wait, am I sure? What about the championship game then? Umm... Go Skyforce and Flyers!!... wait, we need to have home-court advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs... I'm confused.

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Update:
Stampede 105 Skyforce 97 Final
14ers 95 Flyers 91 4:48 4th Qtr

So standings look like this (I think):
Team W L GB
Dakota 30 16 0.0
Sioux Falls 28 18 2.0 (or 1.5, according to this site, 2.0, and according to the news and paper, 1.5)
Fort Worth 26 19 3.0

[USBasket_EricE]

Wait... NO! Go Flyers! I'm going to want Colorado to beat Idaho twice in a row, but I don't want them to wind up with a better record than the Wizards! I don't know what to think anymore!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Wait... NO! Go Flyers! I'm going to want Colorado to beat Idaho twice in a row, but I don't want them to wind up with a better record than the Wizards! I don't know what to think anymore!


Too bad I want the Flyers to lose, but that's not looking good. They were down 2 with 1:19 remaining, but now they are up 2 with 0:45 remaining.

[USBasket_EricE]

Ok, I did not see all those posts above mine tonight. We must have all submitted them at the same time! I'm going off as if I'm the only one writing anything (and talking to myself) and there are two other people talking! Sorry about that! Fort Worth is still far enough behind the Wizards, so their victory tonight did not bother me one bit. The power of the Wizards will be matched against the power of the Flyers on Friday. Should be a good match. Also, IT'S NBA JERSEY NIGHT!!!!

[DakotaWizardsFan]

Ok, I did not see all those posts above mine tonight. We must have all submitted them at the same time! I'm going off as if I'm the only one writing anything (and talking to myself) and there are two other people talking! Sorry about that! Fort Worth is still far enough behind the Wizards, so their victory tonight did not bother me one bit. The power of the Wizards will be matched against the power of the Flyers on Friday. Should be a good match. Also, IT'S NBA JERSEY NIGHT!!!!

I still didn't want Fort Worth to win because I'm not worrying so much about Colorado. I wish Pops would be recalled because if he does, he cannot be sent down again.

The crowd was quite small tonight. I wonder how much smaller even it will be on Friday and Saturday.

[USBasket_EricE]

I'd feel better if Pops was with the Mavs too. I just noticed that Jeremy Richardson is back with them also. How long has he been there? I could have sworn that he wasn't the other day.

I think the play-off picture will be much clearer after Friday and Saturday's games. Hopefully two Wizard wins come out of it and hopefully Colorado does a number on the Stampede. Then both the Stampede and the 14ers can lose from there on out! And now every Stampede and 14er fan hates me:redface:

[DakotaWizardsFan]

I'd feel better if Pops was with the Mavs too. I just noticed that Jeremy Richardson is back with them also. How long has he been there? I could have sworn that he wasn't the other day.

I think the play-off picture will be much clearer after Friday and Saturday's games. Hopefully two Wizard wins come out of it and hopefully Colorado does a number on the Stampede. Then both the Stampede and the 14ers can lose from there on out! And now every Stampede and 14er fan hates me:redface:

Jeremy has probably been back with them for about two weeks now. If he got two ten-days, that would end March 21st. And I checked the boxscore from that day and he played in that game. And actully, he only got one ten-day after a little more research. He played on the 13th also.

Well, the Stampede and 14ers fans (Flyers and Skyforce too) can hate me too. I'm scoreboard-watching and that means that I get very mad when those teams win so if they don't wa