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Explosion Preview- Defense Of Division Title

February 28, 2008 - International Basketball League (IBL)
Snohomish County Explosion News Release


The Snohomish County Explosion are excited about their chances in 2008. With nine returning players, the Explosion are confident in repeating as West Division Champions. "With the guys returning and the off-season acquisitions we have made, I am confident in defending the West," stated Explosion GM Brad Sturlaugson. IBL All-Star Donald Watts returns for the Explosion's sophomore season along with flashy point guard Jamaal Miller. Fellow All-Stars Rashaad Powell and Justin Murray are slated to return to the team in May. They are both currently playing in Dubai.

One of the new faces has some local ties. The number of UW Husky Alum has doubled on the Explosion roster. Former Husky Jamie Booker joins his former teammate (Watts) for the 2008 campaign. "With the success of our inaugural season, recruiting good talent to play in Snohomish County has been positive," Sturlaugson went on to say. Also joining the team this season is former Harlem Globetrotter Kyle Keyes. Keyes improves an already stellar point guard position. "It's like having your number one point guard out there all of the time," commented Owner Nathan Mumm. Keyes last played in the ABA and has tried out the last two seasons with the Seattle Supersonics and the San Antonio Spurs of the NBA. Keyes is also a youth skills coach. "We like to bring in good talent along with a good person," Mumm stated, "We do a number of things in the community, and want good role models out there representing the team."

The Explosion has fostered some great relationships in the community of Monroe. Explosion Director of Ticketing, Zack Mennie, developed "Boomer's Math Explosion" which debuted in the Monroe Elementary schools this winter. Teachers gave their students goals to 'shoot for' each week. The Explosion procured a prize for each week, with the final prize being a ticket to an Explosion game. "We have heard nothing but good feedback on the program and are looking to expand Boomer's Math Explosion to more area school districts next year," Mennie added. Along with the Math Program, the Explosion have fostered relationships with the Sky Valley Food Bank, the Monroe Boys & Girls Club, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, TCBA Fusion Basketball, and Monroe Select Basketball. "We are currently renewing a partnership with Monroe YMCA and finalizing a new partnership with the Monroe Library," Mennie concluded.

The Explosion begin defense of their IBL West Division Title versus the USA (Seattle) All-Stars on Saturday, March 1st. Tip-off is 7:15pm on McGough Court at the Monroe Sports Arena. Gates will open at 6pm. Tickets are still available for all 14 home games. To purchase, call 425-339-BALL. Visit the Explosion online at www.ExplosionBasketball.net.

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