Category: 1st Division

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Preview (D1, D2 Semifinals)

(2) NY DYNASTY vs (3) JUNKIES

D2 WN  Playoffs (Semifinals) – Tuesday, March 28, 6:45pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
The NY DYNASTY have a veteran roster with lots of interior size and perimeter scoring. They’re led by a veteran back court, who may not be as fast as they used to be, but still perfectly capable of carrying this team to victory. They attack you in a variety of ways and they’ll need to explore all options vs JUN.
DYN
5-2

58-55
JUN
4-3		 THE JUNKIES beat DYN in the reg season, but they didn’t have either of their big. Which is key, because JUN has a huge front-line. Now with DYN fully loaded, can JUN dominate in the paint like they did before. To that end, key adds (G) Chung Lee & (F) Mark Promax have since given them depth as well.
Key Player: Drew Chen

He won’t wow you with his scoring, but he does just about everything else for this team. He is the team’s best defender, and he can create his own shot if his team needs it. Chen will be a match-up problem for JUN.

 Pos: G
6.6 ppg
7.6 rpg
8.4 apg
Pos: F
13.8 ppg
12.3 rpg
3.2 apg		 Key Player: Allen Granowski

Granowski is maybe the biggest skill player in D2. He can shoot the 3 and is a willing passer, but his best asset is his ability to post big rebounding numbers. When his team dominates the paint, they win. 

(1) NY ROCKITS vs (5) NYC GRITTY COMMITTEE

D2 WN  Playoffs (Semifinals) – Tuesday, March 28, 7:45pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
What the NY ROCKITS lack in size and experience, they make up for in speed and all-out effort. This under-sized, small-ball squad just comes at you in waves. And when their hitting their 3FGs, they are nearly unbeatable. NGC will have the advantage iu the paint, but NYR’s pressure defense can force TOs and create easy points.
NYR
6-1

60-55
NGC
3-4		 The veteran NYC GRITTY COMM. did not look good in their first match up with NYR. They were sluggish and slow, and could not control the ball in key moments. They’ll have to do that here, especially early in the game. If they succumb to the Rockits pressure defense early on, they just don’t have enough offensive fire power to come from behind.
Key Player: Kyle Lew

Lew is the Rockits’ steadiest scorer, he can fill it up from 3, and take it off the bounce. When he and (G) Dennis Liew both have it going they are tough duo to wrangle. Both can attack you the same ways.

 Pos: G
14.3 ppg
1.7 rpg
3.3 apg
Pos: G
14.8 ppg
3.8 rpg
1.5 spg		 Key Player: Ace Watansuparp

The veteran Watanasuparp has been a bit streaky this season, but part of that has been due to his being in and out of the lineup. He’ll have to carry a big load today as NGC’s primary ball-handler and 1st option.

(1) NYK SPARTANS vs (5) OPTION A

D1 WN  Playoffs (Semifinals) – Tuesday, March 28, 8:45pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
If you don’t know by now, frankly, you don’t deserve to beat the NYK SPARTANS. You absolutely must mark (F) Young Song on every single play. Which is no small feat, he’s great rim-runner and is sneaky on the back line, finding open spots. And most of all, his teammates are always looking for him.
SPA
6-1

61-53
OPA
2-5		 OPTION A actually has the size to compete with SPA, but do they have the discipline? SPA (F) Young Song absolutely torched them in their first match-up because they kept losing track of him. If they can contain Song, and force the other Spartans to score, they can give themselves a chance in this game.
Key Player: Young Song

As mentioned above, the guy knows how to get open. But just as key is he has a knack of finishing around the rim. He’s not very athletic, or particularly strong, he just knows how to put the ball in the whole.

 Pos: F
30.1 ppg
10.6 rpg
1.0 bpg
Pos: F/C
15.0 ppg
8.6 rpg
1.9 spg		 Key Player: Haris Ahmed

Ahmed has a big load to carry here, he is OPA’s best scorer and best rim protector. But they shouldn’t have him guard Song 1-on-1, they need him help-side. Scoring-wise, he has to hit the 3 to open up the paint.

(2) HONEY BADGERS vs (3) ASPHALT NINJAS

D1 WN  Playoffs (Semifinals) – Tuesday, March 28, 9:45pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
HONEY BADGERS couldn’t get (F) Kanem Johnson eligible for the playoffs. And it was specifically for ASN that they needed him. They’ll have to beat them with grit and quickness now. Which is not out of the question, HON was just one overtime possession away from beating ASN in the semifinals just last season.
HON
6-1

55-54
ASN
5-2		 ASPHALT NINJAS couldn’t get their big man (C) Rigo Sargeant playoff eligible either, but as long as (G) Kev Chang on the floor, they have a chance. This is still a very deep roster with plenty of veteran savvy in (G) Wilson Lew and (G) Ian Yu. Count on this game going down to the wire again, if not for extra periods.
Key Player: Zach Moretti

Moretti started off quiet, but he has since picked up his play. He’s their best slasher and finisher. He is also, like teammate (G) Alex Tsay, and the team’s namesake, a relentless player. No back down here.

 Pos: F
14.7 ppg
6.0 rpg
1.7 apg
Pos: G
20.2 ppg
5.8 rpg
2.4 spg		 Key Player: Kev Chang

Chang may be the best wing scorer in D1 with a combo of crafty drives & 3-point range. And it always looks fairly easy, he’s as smooth they come. But HON has as tough a perimeter D as they come, too.

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Preview (All Sunday Divisions)

(2) SK WAR DOG vs (6) SHAWN KEMP’S KIDS

D1 Sun Playoffs (Semifinals) – Sunday, March 26, 1:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
At this point, just getting into the playoffs is enough for SK WAR DOG, the seeding isn’t. Their Big 3 back court is back, though not as efficient from the FT line as in some seasons past. Which may or may not come into the play this post-season. But this is a multi-time former champ with a roster full of veterans. Playoffs are their playground.
SKW
5-2

61-56
SKK
3-4		 SHAWN KEMP’S KIDS was able to dictate the tempo vs ADG and advance. But an uptempo style might do worse for them here as SKW invites it, and is better at it. But aggressive perimeter D can frustrate the aging SKW backcourt, which can mean forced shots, or an even more focused effort. It’s a gamble, but why not make them work for it.
Key Player: Kash Miah

The veteran gunner isn’t 100% yet, but he’s still the most dangerous player on the floor. You just can’t leave him by himself. He will never stop shooting, and if you let him get hot, you will lose the game.

 Pos: G
17.8 ppg
4.0 3pg
4.8 rpg
Pos: G/F
12.0 ppg
7.0 rpg
4.0 apg		 Key Player: Dan Linnane

Linnane was relatively quiet during the regular season, but in SKK’s 1st rd win over ADG, he showed his versatility off the wing. Able to score inside/out and setup his teammates, they’ll need plenty of that here. 

(2) NO FLY ZONE OG vs (7) TAP NY

D2 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Sunday, March 26, 2:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
It’s no secret, NO FLY ZONE OG was terrible before rookie (F) Phil Thomas joined as a free agent. He has lifted them to contender status, by not only putting up solid #s, but making every one of his teammates better. That should seal his MVP prospects this season. This is now a veteran team with plenty of guard play, shooting, defense, and a rare athlete in Thomas.
NFZ
5-2

62-58
TAP
3-4		 This is actually the deepest TAP NY team they’ve ever fielded. Having (F) Jin Bae Kim and (F) Dave Liu in the front court is the most formidable they have ever been at those positions. There just might not be enough basketball to keep everyone happy offensively. (G) Will Chu has given them a chance in every game, but they just haven’t closed as well this season as in the past.
Key Player: Phil Thomas

Thomas might be the most athletic player in D2 this season, and he is plenty versatile as well, leading his team in PPG, RPG, second in APG, and BPG. He is the hero that NFZ had been looking for.

 Pos: F
18.4 ppg
10.6 rpg
3.2 apg
Pos: G
20.6 ppg
4.4 3pg
4.4 apg		 Key Player: Will Chu

Should be no surprise, but Chu is carrying TAP offensively. And his 3.1 spg is his highest in years. If no one else steps up, they’ll need another big one from Chu to keep pace with NFZ’s fire power.

(3) SEX PANTHERS vs (6) WOLVERINES

D2 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Sunday, March 26, 2:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
With the most dangerous back court in D2, along with an MVP candidate in the front court in (F) Chris Di, the SEX PANTHERS are fully loaded for a title run. No team gets more scoring from their Top 3, which also means attendance can be an issue. But this is a multi-time former champ that can go down big and still comeback to win.
SXP
5-2

62-56
WOL
4-3		 The WOLVERINES offense has transitioned to (G) Nick Abrapour this season, which is fine. He’s the most capable scorer in the back court, but roster inconsistency has made this season a head-scratcher despite solid 3-pt shooting (which WOL needed). This is a defensive minded team that will be physical, but a lot hinges on Abrapour now.
Key Player: David Chu

Chu is not only a dangerous shooter that is capable of going for 30 in any game, the Panthers also work to get him as many touches as possible to get there. His shooting can wear even the toughest defenses thin.

 Pos: G
24.1 ppg
4.7 3pg
4.6 rpg
Pos: G
14.4 ppg
9 rpg
3.2 spg		 Key Player: Nick Abrapour

He’ll be the best athlete in this game, which means he can get any shot he wants. But he has stay disciplined on both sides of the ball. TOs, missed assignments and bad shot selection are his downfall. 

(4) GRITTY FOB CITY vs (5) NY BRICKS

D2 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Sunday, March 26, 3:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
It should no surprise that GRITTY FOB CITY is a contender again with (F) Chris Youn on the floor. Having him almost always means FOB is winning the chip. But they’re all a little older, and haven’t been quite as convincing this season. But if anyone can pick them up and carrying them, it’s Youn.
FOB
5-2

55-54
BRI
4-3		 Speed and aggressive transition is FOB’s weakness, and NY BRICKS have plenty of that. They don’t really have to worry about efficiency as much as keeping the attack going in waves. Eventually, FOB will tire. If the Bricks are hitting from the perimeter, and turning TOs into points, they can win this game.
Key Player: Chris Youn

He does it all, score, rebound, pass defend, and he is the only player seemingly in FOB history that can get the most out of this group. The team are underachievers without him, or he’s just that good.

 Pos: F
15.3 ppg
8.5 rpg
5.5 apg
Pos: G
9.7 ppg
5.1 apg
2.9 spg		 Key Player: Eric Kim

He hasn’t had a great season scoring wise, but Kim is still the catalyst for his team. He hasn’t looked great in his last few games, but he has to pick up his game and the tempo vs FOB. His speed can kill here. 

(1) BOMB SQUAD vs (9) SPAGHETTI RAMEN

D2 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Sunday, March 26, 3:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
BOMB SQUAD has easily been the most dominant team in D2 this season with the same core leading the way. Key adds in (G) Daniel Wolff & (C) Spencer Bartlebaugh have given them great depth, but this is still a team built on their defense and ability to score off rebounds and turnovers. This is championship caliber.
BOM
6-1

65-52
SPR
3-5		 SPAGHETTI RAMEN pulled of a miracle comeback win over GOA in the play-in game, but it’s a bit much to expect them to do the same here. Then again, in single-elimination, you just never know do you. You can count on one thing, Ramen will fight in every second of this game, and they will not quit. So if BOM is prone to sleep like GOA, look out.
Key Player: David Hsiung

The game was essentially a forfeit, but Hsiung scored 37 in it. Which means he is perfectly capable of lighting it up if you don’t pay very close attention to him. He is also their best perimeter defender.

 Pos: G/F
19.2 ppg
5.7 rpg
2.2 apg
Pos: G/F
16 ppg
8 rpg
7 spg		 Key Player: Matt Auerbach

The versatile Auerbach does a pretty good impression of (G) Leuis Ng in the #s when the latter is out of the lineup. But with a totally different approach. They’ll need another big game from him today. 

(1) YUNG NO FLY ZONE vs (4) THE LIZARDS

D1 Sun Playoffs (Semifinals) – Sunday, March 26, 4:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
YUNG NO FLY ZONE hasn’t been as dominant as past regular seasons, but that hasn’t necessarily led to titles either. But as they’ve shown this season, this veteran team finds ways to win. And key additions of (F) Sherwin Salar & (F) Phil Thomas have given them more depth than they’ve ever had. This is the team to beat right now.
NFZ
6-1

65-62
LIZ
5-3		 Solid 1st rd win for THE LIZARDS, the game was never in doubt. They got balanced scoring across the board, and moved the ball well, assisting on 17 of their 20 made FGs. They will have to keep up that kind of polished attack vs NFZ, a team that won’t take as many ill-advised shots as STM. The Lizards must dominate the glass to win this game.
Key Player: Michael Reding

They run the entire offense through Reding to give him as many chances as possible to see his trademark 3-pt streaks. When he goes off, NFZ gets big leads. And he’s also their most versatile defender.

 Pos: F
18.1 ppg
8.3 rpg
3.0 apg
Pos: F
11 ppg
7 rpg
5 apg		 Key Player: Nat Schacht

Add 3 blocks and you have Schacht’s all-around effort in their 1st rd win over STM. A versatile forward with great height & length, Schacht will be a match-up probably for NFZ if they can get him involved early. 

(4) POGI POINTS vs (5) NY FALCONS

D3 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Sunday, March 26, 4:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
POGI POINTS won’t beat you with great speed–outside of (F) Jin Bae Kim–but they have great size, and balanced scoring from all over the floor. They proved in their regular season win over NFU that they can win close games against a faster team. Well, they’ll have to do it again here, against that same tea, now with a scouting report.
POG
4-3

48-46
NFU
4-3		 Their last loss of the season came to POG, so this will be a revenge game for NY FALCONS U. But keeping composure will be key to that. This team has plenty of youth and speed, but making the right decisions vs a strong team like POG is a whole different thing altogether. Falcons have to keep going hard, but now in crunch time, they have to close.
Key Player: Jin Bae Kim

Kim may be the most athletic player in D3, and he has shown it this season by contributing across the board for his team. He is their best slasher, rebounder, passer, and defensive player. And he’ll need to do it all again in this one.

 Pos: F
15.6 ppg
11.8 rpg
4.2 apg
Pos: G/F
12.6 ppg
4.7 rpg
1.4 spg		 Key Player: Jeff Zheng

Like all the NFU scorers, Zheng is aggressive in attacking the defense whenever he gets the chance. The tricky part has always been staying under control. They have the talent to get the lead, now they have to figure out how to keep it.

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Previews (D1, D2, D3)

(4) THE LIZARDS vs (5) STRANGER TEAM

D1 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Saturday, March 25, 1pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
THE LIZARDS have been here before, though not with the all the same faces. But this is a calm and collected team with (G) Joe Zenz & (G) Adam Bottorf at the helm, with some streaky outside shooting from (G) Christian Jordan, who is very capable of creating his own shot. This is also a very big front-line, built for the playoffs.
LIZ
4-3

58-56
STM
3-4		 Young-ish and athletic, STRANGER TEAM is an enigma. Possibly D1’s most athletic team with (F) Pete Panos, (G) Dylan Rafferty, and in particular, (F) Chris Tsatsis, but more than 50% of their FGAs come from behind the 3-pt line, and not at a strong clip. When they get hot, they can beat anyone. But too often, bad shot selection does them in.
Key Player: Joe Zenz

Perennially a top PG in D1, Zenz might also be the best rebounder at the position we’ve ever seen. A pass-first setup man who can score if called upon, Zenz always gives his team a chance to win.

 Pos: G
12.8 ppg
7.8 rpg
4.5 apg
Pos: G
23.3 ppg
3.7 3pg
3.9 rpg		 Key Player: Dylan Rafferty

Young gunner Rafferty led D1 Sun in scoring this season, he’s one of those streaky shooters that just can’t miss when he gets hot. Barely even looks at the rim, ball barely touches the net. But he is a volume shooter. 

(2) JAPAN UNITED vs (7) THE CRUSTACEANS

D3 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Saturday, March 25, 2pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
There are really only two contenders in this season’s D3, STR and JAPAN UNITED. And United is the deeper team on offense, they just don’t have the defensive stoppers STR has. Which is to say, if you don’t put up a strong defensive effort right from the beginning, JPU will blow you right out of the water.
JPU
6-1

60-51
CRU
2-5		 Despite their reg season record, THE CRUSTACEANS had good showings against D3’s top teams. They did this with tough D, and streaky shooting. But in each of those games, they didn’t finish strong. So, here’s another chance to see if they can figure it out. Their superior size will help. If they can control the glass and give CRU second shots, they’ll have a chance.
Key Player: Daniel Mosley

Mosley is the steady anchor to all of JPU’s outside speed. he does all the dirty work, gets all the tough buckets for them. It’s his ability to create something out of nothing that puts JPU on the same level as STR above the rest.

 Pos: G/F
14.7 ppg
10.3 rpg
3.1 apg
Pos: G
16.1 ppg
7.3 rpg
3.1 apg		 Key Player: Jason Lai

Lai is a streaky shooter with a sneaky crossover. Also a willing rebounder and solid passer, he is CRU’s most versatile player and focal point. He can’t hesitate, CRU bigs need to give him as many chances as possible to get hot from 3.

(8) GOAT HERDERS vs (9) SPAGHETTI RAMEN

D2 Sun Play-In Game – Saturday, March 25, 2:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
The GOAT HERDERS have more than enough talent on the roster, but they needed to win 2 of their last 3 just to squeeze into this play-in game. (F) Pete Tsevdos and (F) Andrea Kormosis are finishers in the paint, and Tsevdos is even their best 3-pt shooter, but finding consistency in the backcourt is key.
GOA
3-4

61-52
SPR
2-5		 The veteran SPAGHETTI RAMEN will be missing a lot of key players in this play-in game, but if they have a key piece available in (G) Ryan Chong, they may have a chance. He hasn’t quite lived up to the PAAG Tourney MVP billing he earned last summer, but he is capable. Chances here will be slim regardless.
Key Player: Pete Tsevdos

The veteran Tsevdos has carried this GOA team for a long time now, and he always does so with a smile. Arguably the most formidable big man in D2, he will be called upon to carry a heavy load here again.

 Pos: F/C
19.8 ppg
12.6 rpg
1.6 spg
Pos: G
15.3 ppg
5.3 rpg
3.3 spg		 Key Player: Ryan Chong

Word on the street is (G) Leuis Ng will not be available. If so, Chong will need to carry a very heavy load. He is a streaky shooter with deep range but hasn’t found the stroke this season. They’ll need it today.

(3) THE BLOUSES vs (6) THE PANDAS

D3 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Saturday, March 25, 3pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
THE BLOUSES are suddenly hit with the injury bug. Key players (G) Roswell Lo, (G) Mark Feeney, and (C) Danius Giedraitis are all out for the playoffs. This leaves a huge whole in the offense that won’t be easily compensated. Veteran (G) Brent Morita will do his best to keep his team in play. They’ll need strong D and a little luck for the rest.
BLO
5-2

51-53
PAN
3-4		 They may consider themselves lucky, THE PANDAS just missed out on playing a powerhouse in BLO. They have had their own struggles this season. The new personnel hasn’t meshed as quickly as they’d hoped. So they’ll have a chance here to get it together. If they can get by BLO, maybe they turn that momentum into some team chemistry.
Key Player: Brent Morita

One of the best setup men in TDL history, Morita will have to pick up the scoring with Feeney and Lo out. Tough ask for a player who’s not used to shooting first, but there’s not much Morita can’t handle.

 Pos: G
5.2 ppg
5.2 apg
2.8 spg
Pos: G
16.7 ppg
5.5 rpg
2.8 apg		 Key Player: Eddie Tsao

Tsao may be the fastest player in D3 but not only are his numbers down this season, his overall impact has seemed to diminish as well. But it’s playoff time, and he is very capable of putting up a big game.

(1) STREET DREAMS vs (8) GOON SQUAD

D3 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Saturday, March 25, 3:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Led by reigning MVP (G) Miguel Melbourne,  STREET DREAMS is the odds on favorite to win it all. Last season’s best player stacked his roster this season in a bid to win it all. (F) Neil Dumadag is having a dominant season on D, the favorite to win Def MVP, as Melbourne is to win overall MVP. 
STR
7-0

60-48
GOO
2-5		 If GOON SQUAD has anything going for them, it’s that they can be very streaky shooters, and STR probably doesn’t know who those shooters are. If (G) Bob Zhang and (G) Charles Zheng get hot in this game, they can give GOO a chance. Outside of that, they need to control the boards to even smell a win.
Key Player: Miguel Melbourne

Unstoppable one-on-one, Melbourne is D3’s biggest match-up problem. He can be as dangerous on defense as he is on offense, too. The shot has not been as efficient this season, but the steals and easy transition points have made up for most of that.

 Pos: G
21.9 ppg
3.9 apg
3.9 spg
Pos: G
14.5 ppg
6 rpg
2 spg		 Key Player: Bob Zhang

Zhang is a streaky shooter who can carry an offense in stretches, and if he and Zheng are hitting, this is a team that can put up some points. So, GOO will let it fly and hope for the best in this one. In single-elim, you just never know.

(3) ADAM D GAMBLERS vs (6) SHAWN KEMP’S KIDS

D1 Sun Playoffs (1st Round) – Saturday, March 25, 4:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
If the playoffs were meant for big, defensive-minded teams, then the ADAM D GAMBLERS are built for success. With D1’s biggest (and heaviest) lineup, they were also the league’s top D, giving up a paltry 44.1 ppg. Their biggest short-coming has been 3-pt shooting, where they shoot 13%, a league low. 
ADG
4-3

44-43
SKK
3-4		 If ADG has a weakness, it’s speedy guards that can beat their man, and force TOs. And SHAWN KEMP’S KIDS have plenty of those. They also have some solid size with (C) Graham Diamond in the pivot. SKK’s back court was held at bay in their first meeting but if they play well, this one’s a toss up.
Key Player: Erik Jerrard

ADG (F) Rich Schuler is their most capable scorer, but Jerrard is their biggest mismatch. He doesn’t need plays called, he just waits at the box for his team to shoot and pushes any defender under the basket for an easy put-back. It’s all day.

 Pos: F/C
13.5 ppg
14.5 rpg
1.2 spg
Pos: G
17.7 ppg
5.8 rpg
3.0 apg		 Key Player: Donovan Walsh

Walsh at his best is like the Isaiah Thomas of D1. Undersized but able to finish tough acrobatic shots at the rim, and knock down big 3FGs in crunch time. He does, however, throw up some stinkers from time to time. SKK can’t afford that here.

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Preview (D1, D2, D3)

(1) SPAGHETTI RAMEN vs (5) NY DYNASTY

D1 WN Playoffs (Semifinals) – Thursday, March 23, 7pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
This is always the team to beat in D3 but SPAGHETTI RAMEN were short-handed last season in the title game when they lost their first D3 title game to SKL. They will short-handed again today, but (G) Leuis Ng will be there. And sometimes, that’s all they really need to win.
SPR
6-1

55-52
DYN
4-4		 NY DYNASTY is a team we knew would find a way to get back to the semis. They haven’t always looked great–SPR dismantled them in the reg season–but in tight games, they’ve found ways to win with some veteran savvy. Only this time, they’re playing a proven champion.
Key Player: Leuis Ng

He does it all, multi-time MVP, blah blah blah. At this point, you know what you’re gonna get from Ng, You should have the scouting report, but can you stop him? Probably not.

 Pos: G
13.4 ppg
7.6 rpg
6.4 apg
Pos: G
27.3 ppg
5.9 3pg
3.1 rpg		 Key Player: Quinn Hood

Chu is the most dangerous shooter in D3 and when he’s efficient, his team has found ways to win. This is not a team that will dominate on D. So, Chu’s shooting is a huge asset. 

(4) JUSTICE LEAGUE vs (5) OPTION A

D1 WN Playoffs (1st Round) – Thursday, March 23, 8pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
JUSTICE LEAGUE is the best of the second tier of teams in D1. And they have the best chance of keeping up with the contenders offensively. If this team gets hot from three, they can certainly beat any team from 4 down. And despite their size, they scrap pretty well on D, too.
JLA
3-4

56-55
OPA
2-5		 If JLA needs to make 3FGs to beat the Top 3, then OPTION A needs consistency in the paint. This team has plenty of size, and (F) Haris Ahmed is a great, versatile big. But with (C) Pablo Salcedo out to injury, Ahmed needs to dominate the paint more than he has..
Key Player: Maxwell Ruffin

Versatile on both ends of the court, Ruffin can do everything for JLA. But the key to their success is whether he is hitting his three. When he is, it makes him that much more effective off the bounce and setting up his teammates.

 Pos: G/F
14.7 ppg
10.3 rpg
3.1 apg
Pos: F/C
15 ppg
8.6 rpg
1.9 spg		 Key Player: Haris Ahmed

Ahmed is rangy, mobile defender that can shut down the paint on D, but tends to drift to the perimeter on offense. He can shoot the three, needs to use it as a supplementary instead of a primary weapon. OPA needs him in the paint.

(4) DON’T EVER PLAY YOURSELF vs (5) NYC GRITTY COMMITTEE

D2 WN Playoffs (1st Round) – Thursday, March 23, 9pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Great turnaround for DON’T EVER PLAY YOURSELF this season but now it’s playoff time and we’ll see just how much they’ve come along. This is a big, physical team that, if slow, plays with no lack of effort. Win or lose, you’ll get a full effort from this group.
DPY
5-2

58-56
NGC
3-4		 NYC GRITTY COMMITTEE is one of those veteran teams that’s always ready to turn it on the playoffs. But they’re also not getting any younger. This isn’t the same dominant Gritty of the past, but they can still get it done with savvy play and one hot shooter.
Key Player: Kali Pearson

Pearson has gotten better as the season has gone on. He is a physical play-maker that can do a little of everything for his team. His Achilles heel might be his FT shooting, but that’s the same for all of DPY.

 Pos: G/F
14.1 ppg
6.6 rpg
4.1 apg
Pos: G
13.9 ppg
3.1 3pg
3.1 apg		 Key Player: David Chu

Chu is perennially one of D2’s best 3-point threats, though NGC hasn’t quite figured out how to best use him so far this season. But he is the one player most capable of carrying NGC on offense.

TDL Fall 2016 End-of-Season Player Honors (D1)

1st Division (Sundays)

Position: G
Seasons: 4

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER

MATHEW JOSHY (LACE’O MY ASO)

Statistics: 26.8 ppg, 45% FGs, 2.8 rpg, 1.8 apg, 4.3 spg

Season Notes: There were a lot of outstanding players this season, but no one was more watchable, and more integral to his team’s success this season than Joshy. Responsible for what are destined to be some of the most memorable games in TDL history, this is a well-deserved MOP award.
 Runner-up: (F) Michael Reding (NFZ) 21.6 ppg, 14.8 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.6 spg
Position: F/C
Seasons: 11

Wat Misaka Defensive Most Outstanding Player

JORDAN CALHOUN (DORIS FROM REGO PARK)

Statistics: 12.8 rpg, 3 spg, 1.8 bpg, 1.8 fpg

Season Notes: We’re used to seeing Calhoun sweep up Sam Lo awards, a testament to his inextinguishable fire on the court. But they must’ve forgot about J, because they tested him this season. And he curved ’em all.
 Runner-up: (G/F) Zack Koerber (DOR) 6.3 rpg, 3 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.3 fpg
Position: G/F
Seasons: 6

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

MICHAEL REDING (YUNG NO FLY ZONE)

Statistics: 21.6 ppg, 14.8 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.6 spg

Season Notes: Reding lost the MVP vote by a hair. That’s because he’s asked to carry a very heavy load for his team, and he always comes through. In 6 seasons, Reding is a 3-time MVP, and now a two-time Sam Lo winner.
 Runner-up: (F/C) Jordan Calhoun (DOR) 11.8 ppg, 12.8 rpg, 3 spg, 1.8 bpg
Position: C
Seasons: R

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

HET SUN (SESAME CHICKEN)

Statistics: 12 ppg, 50% FGs, 9.3 rpg, 1 apg, 1.3 bpg

Season Notes: Sun was one of the biggest players in D1 this season, and he threw his weight around pretty decently for a rook. The SES big man played with plenty of attitude and could be a force for seasons to come.
 Runner-up: (G) Dustin Ramos (STM) 14 ppg, 40% FGs, 7.5 rpg, 2 apg

All-Dynasty First Team

(G) Miguel Melbourne (RAR) 21.7 ppg, 5 rpg, 4.3 apg, 1.8 spg
(G) Mathew Joshy (LMA) 26.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.8 apg, 4.3 spg
(F) Zack Koerber (DOR) 18.8 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 2.2 apg, 3 spg
(F) Michael Reding (NFZ) 21.6 ppg, 14.8 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.6 spg
(C) Jordan Calhoun (DOR) 11.8 ppg, 12.8 rpg, 3 spg, 1.8 bpg

All-Dynasty Second Team

(G) Will Chu (DOR) 18.8 ppg, 4 3pg, 3 rpg, 3.6 apg, 1 spg
(G) Vegas Dave Wong (SKW) 20 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.5 spg
(F) David Farnham (NFZ) 35 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 4 apg, 1.3 spg
(F) Richard Sun (SES) 18.6 ppg, 3.6 3pg, 2.8 rpg, 0.6 spg
(C) Kevin Cheddie (LMA) 17 ppg, 10 rpg, 1.5 apg, 2 spg

All-Defensive Team

(G) Chung Lee (LMA) 6.7 rpg, 4.2 spg, 0.8 bpg, 3.7 fpg
(G) Mathew Joshy (LMA) 2.8 rpg, 4.3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 1.8 fpg
(F) Zack Koerber (DOR) 6.3 rpg, 3 spg, 0.5 bpg, 2.3 fpg
(F) Pete Panos (STM) 11.3 rpg, 1.9 spg, 1.4 bpg, 3.9 fpg
(C) Jordan Calhoun (DOR) 12.8 rpg, 3 spg, 1.8 bpg, 2.6 fpg

All-Hustle Team

(G) Chung Lee (LMA) 5.2 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.5 apg, 4.2 spg, 0.8 bpg
(G) Tyler Wells (SKW) 11.3 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 3.5 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.8 bpg
(F) Pete Panos (SES) 13.9 ppg, 11.3 rpg, 4.1 apg, 1.9 spg, 1.4 bpg
(F) Michael Reding (NFZ) 21.6 ppg, 14.8 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.6 spg
(C) Jordan Calhoun (DOR) 11.8 ppg, 12.8 rpg, 3 spg, 1.8 bpg

All-Rookie Team

(G) Dustin Ramos (STM) 14 ppg, 2.8 3pg, 7.5 rpg, 2 apg
(G) Michael Look (SES) 9 ppg, 2.8 3pg, 1.3 rpg, 0.3 spg
(F) Eric Fang (SES) 5.2 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.8 apg, 1 bpg
(F) Dwayne Jordan (STM) 11.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1 spg
(C) Het Sun (SES) 12 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 1 apg, 1.3 bpg

1st Division (Weeknights)

Position: G/F
Seasons: 5

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER

WILL HAILE (NY DYNASTY)

Statistics: 17.4 ppg, 13.8 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg

Season Notes: It was a close vote, due perhaps to no one particular team standing out as a favorite this season. But when you put together everything that Haile brings to the table for his team, it’s hard to go another direction. This is Haile’s 2nd career MOP award in D1.
 Runner-up: (C) Quinn Hood (TOP) 17.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 2 spg, 1.2 bpg
Position: C
Seasons: 1

Wat Misaka Defensive Most Outstanding Player

RIGO SARGEANT (AQUA BEST NINJAS)

Statistics: 12.7 rpg, 1 spg, 2 bpg, 3.3 fpg

Season Notes: Sargeant pretty much didn’t play a 1st quarter this season, so his defensive numbers come in limited minutes. This can’t even account for the shots he changed, he was simply a massive presence in the paint.
 Runner-up: (F) Will Haile (DYN) 13.8 rpg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg, 2.2 fpg
Position: G
Seasons: 17

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

ALEX TSAY (HONEY BADGERS)

Statistics: 6.3 ppg, 6 rpg, 5 apg, 3.5 spg, 0.8 bpg

Season Notes: The veteran Tsay has put up gaudier numbers in the past, but if you want to talk about the eye test, there is nobody who leaves it all out on the floor more than the “Honey Badger” himself.
 Runner-up: (F) Will Haile (DYN) 17.4 ppg, 13.8 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg
Position: G
Seasons: R

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

DAIN SCHEIBEL (PWC IIII) 

Statistics: 22.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.2 spg

Season Notes: Scheibel got out to a fast start, scoring virtually at will in the 1st half of the season. Unfortunately, PWC didn’t finish as strong as they had hoped, but Scheibel was the best point guard in D1 WN this season.
 Runner-up: (F/C) Quinn Hood (TOP) 17.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 2 spg, 1.2 bpg

All-Dynasty First Team

(G) Dain Scheibel (PWC) 22.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.2 spg
(G) Will Haile (DYN) 17.4 ppg, 13.8 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg
(F) Zach Moretti (HON) 17.3 ppg, 12 rpg, 2 spg, 1.3 bpg
(F) Quinn Hood (TOP) 17.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 2 spg, 1.2 bpg
(C) Martin Brusewitz (70S) 20.8 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1.2 bpg

All-Dynasty Second Team

(G) Shaun Crummy (70S) 15 ppg, 11 rpg, 2.5 apg, 2.5 spg
(G) Michael Reding (DYN) 20 ppg, 4 3pg, 9.7 rpg, 1.7 apg
(F) Ben Perkins (TOP) 17 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 3 apg, 1.5 spg
(F) Matt Modrick (PWC) 16 ppg, 7 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 spg, 1.2 bpg
(C) Rigo Sargeant (ABN) 14.3 ppg, 50% FGs, 12.7 rpg, 1 spg, 2 bpg

All-Defensive Team

(G) Alex Tsay (HON) 6 rpg, 3.5 spg, 0.8 bpg, 2.8 fpg
(G) Will Haile (DYN) 13.8 rpg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg, 2.2 fpg
(F) Zach Moretti (HON) 12 rpg, 2 spg, 1.3 bpg, 1.7 fpg
(F) Matt Modrick (PWC) 7 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1.2 bpg, 1.2 fpg
(C) Rigo Sargeant (ABN) 12.7 rpg, 1 spg, 2 bpg, 3.3 fpg

All-Hustle Team

(G) Alex Tsay (HON) 6.3 ppg, 6 rpg, 5 apg, 3.5 spg, 0.8 bpg
(G) Shaun Crummy (70S) 15 ppg, 11 rpg, 2.5 apg, 2.5 spg
(F) Will Haile (DYN) 17.4 ppg, 13.8 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.2 spg, 1.6 bpg
(F) Zach Moretti (HON) 17.3 ppg, 12 rpg, 2 spg, 1.3 bpg
(F) James Reingruber (PWC) 6 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 2.2 apg, 2.4 spg

All-Rookie Team

(G) Dain Scheibel (PWC) 22.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.6 apg, 2.2 spg
(G) Fedrick Lundegardh (70S) 5.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.2 spg
(F) Dave Albright (PWC) 8.7 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 3.7 apg, 1.3 spg
(F) Matt Modrick (PWC) 16 ppg, 7 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 spg, 1.2 bpg
(C) Quinn Hood (TOP) 17.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 2 spg, 1.2 bpg

TDL Fall 2016 Championship Preview (D1 WN)

(5) AQUA BEST NINJAS vs (6) TOP STARS

Championship – Wednesday (12/6) 9pm at Murry Bergtraum HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
These are the two lowest seeds TDL has ever seen in a title game, but it’s more a testament to how close the field really was. There was no stand out favorite to win it all. Aqua Best Ninjas are sparked by a deep roster of (G)s, anchored by D1’s biggest player (C) Rigo Sargeant. But if (F) Jason Wu remains out with an ankle injury suffered in the semis, this team will be short a scorer they can’t really afford to lose.
ABN
4-4

48-44
TOP
3-5		 As mentioned in the semis preview, the Top Stars took awhile to get here but they’re the hottest team in the league right now. They have a big, physical line-up that can score in transition, and in the half-court. They can take in the paint, and hurt you from the perimeter. What they don’t have is depth and a bona fide PG. With the pressure D ABN is capable of (and will) put on, ball-handling will be the difference in this ball game.
Key Player: Rigo Sargeant

As mentioned, Sargeant is easily the biggest player in D1, and when he chooses to assert himself, there isn’t much stopping him in the paint. Can’t say much for his jumper as we haven’t seen it used very much, but this man is a singular force.

X-Factor: Ian Yu

Yu is a crafty veteran guard that can put up numbers all across the board for ABN. But he’ll need to pick up the scoring in this one if Wu cannot go. The paint be crowded, which doesn’t make it any easier. 

 Pos: C
14.3 ppg
12.7 rpg
2 bpg 

Pos: G
11 ppg
6.3 rpg
5 apg
Pos: F
17 ppg
5.5 rpg
3 apg 


Pos: C
17.6 ppg
8.6 rpg
1.2 bpg

 Key Player: Ben Perkins

For awhile, Perkins been this team’s spiritual leader. He brings a fire and competitiveness to the game that has sparked his team during this playoff run. Perkins can score all over the court, but his biggest strength might be his offensive rebounding.

X-Factor: Quinn Hood

The rookie (C) is a major factor to TOP’s surprising run this season. He brings a versatile game, scoring in the paint and with the J. And he’s as adept at passing the ball as he is at finding open spots on the floor.

TDL Fall 2016 Semifinals Playoff Preview (D1 Sun)

(1) YUNG NO FLY ZONE vs (4) LACE’O MY ASO

Semifinals – Saturday (12/3) 2:15pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Yung No Fly Zone finished 7-0 but they weren’t necessarily the most dominant team all season. They are just a deep, veteran unit that knows how to win games. And they’re hungrier than ever after 4 seasons of disappointment following a debut title as a unit. Their wing scorers are their strengths, but NFZ relies heavily on 3-pt shooting, so whether they’re hot or cold will be key to whether LMA has a shot.
NFZ
7-0

63-60
LMA
5-3		 Lace’o My Aso has come a long way, finally knocking off arch-rivals SKW, coming in as a true contender. They’ve found a way to win games with opportunistic D and clutch shooting, even when it looked like they had lost all momentum. Much of that has to do with (G) Mathew Joshy‘s ability to score from any spot on the floor. LMA isn’t very deep, but they have a sparkle about them. It could be their season. 
Key Player: Michael Reding

Do-it-all Reding has been the most dominant player in D1 for the past year, with 3 MVPs to show for it. But his team relies on him so much that he has no margin for let up in the post season. They’ll need his A game to win it all.

X-Factor: David Farnham

Since his first season, Farnham has fit in well with NFZ’s run & gun style. He can put up huge #s, as he did this season with 35 ppg in 3 gms. If he hasn’t cooled in the layoff, NFZ might be unbeatable.

 Pos: G
21.6 ppg
14.8 rpg
4.6 apg 

Pos: G/F
35 ppg
8.3 rpg
4 apg
Pos: G
26.8 ppg
2.8 rpg
4.3 spg 


Pos: F
17 ppg
10 rpg
2 spg

 Key Player: Mathew Joshy

Joshy has been a killer all season, not only leading his team in scoring, but leading the league in steals. He can create his own shot, and knock down 3s with anyone off the pass. He must be the focal point of any defense. 

X-Factor: Kevin Cheddie

Cheddie is often overlooked, but he is one of D1’s most versatile players. He is a big who can score off the dribble, and if the shot is going, he creates match-up problems. LMA needs a goodie from Cheddie. 

(2) DORIS FROM REGO PARK vs (6) SESAME CHICKEN

Semifinals – Saturday (12/3) 3:15pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
They didn’t finish undefeated, but in their wins, Doris From Rego Park looked the most dominant. Mostly due to a suffocating defense that has them attacking opposing guards to force defenders while also making it hard to finish in the paint. You have to be able to make 3FGs against Doris and well, SES is not a great 3-pt shooting team. This one could be a blowout.
DOR
7-1

62-51
SES
3-5		 Sesame Chicken didn’t look good this season, but they snuck into the playoffs and caught a short-handed RAR in the 1st rd. They’ll need to play a perfect game to beat DOR, a team that feeds on TOs. SES will have to protect the ball better than their 13.3 TOpg and maybe get it in to (C) Het Sun a little more. DOR can sometimes be susceptible to bigger scorers in the paint.
Key Player: Zack Koerber

Arguably the best two-way player in D1, Koerber is a big, physical defender and scores the same kind of way. He loves to sneak up on you out in transition, going hard into the paint to finish or go to the FT line.

X-Factor: Jordan Calhoun

We’d put (G) Will Chu here, too, because if he gets hot from 3, DOR is nearly unbeatable. But Calhoun gets the nod because it’s his ability to protect the paint that allows the DOR guards to attack on D.

 Pos: G
22.7 ppg
6.3 rpg
3 spg 

Pos: F/C
11.8 ppg
12.8 3pg
1.8 bpg
Pos: F
18.6 ppg
2.8 rpg
0.6 spg 


P: G/F/C
7.8 ppg
6.3 rpg
4.8 apg

 Key Player: Richard Sun

Sun is SES’s best scorer, he can post, he can hit the 3, he can take it off the bounce. But he tends to leak out and his rebounding rate is poor. They’ll need his presence on the glass in this one.

Key Player: James Zhang

Zhang is maybe the most versatile player in D1, but he isn’t always tuned in, especially on offense. But when he can get out on the break and is focused, he can finish tough shots and create mismatches.

TDL Fall 2016 First Round Playoff Preview (D1 Sun)

(3) RAINING ROSEBUDS vs (6) SESAME CHICKEN

First Round – Sunday (11/20) 12:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
It’s been awhile since the Rosebuds were a powerhouse, yet here they are at 5-2 and a 3 seed. They don’t seem to have the same talent at first glance as those previous teams, but what they do have is (G) Miguel Melbourne playing as well as anyone in the league right now. And the ball has really fallen their way this season. Will be interesting to see how far they can take it.
RAR
5-2

61-55
SES
2-5		 Sesame Chicken is kind of all over the place. They have obvious talent and (C) Het Sun can be a force in the paint. But they too often get caught up in little things, distracted by the moment and losing sight of the bigger picture: winning. But they have a ton of depth and if they can strong some plays together, RAR miay be susceptible to upset. But it doesn’t seem like it.
Key Player: Miguel Melbourne

The veteran guard has never had any shortage of confidence and this season he has elevated his game to a level of consistency that has put RAR in this position as a favorite to move into the semifinals. But if RAR struggles with fielding a full roster, Melbourne will have to shoulder a big load. Can he hold up?

 Pos: G
21.7 ppg
5 rpg
4.3 apg
Pos: F
7.8 ppg
6.3 rpg
4.8 apg		 Key Player: James Zhang

His numbers don’t blow you away, (F) Richard Sun is the scorer, but Zhang is the only who can keep this team sane. If he’s up for it. There are times where he completely dominates a game with intangibles, and then there’s some when he just disappears. The success of this team is reliant on him appearing.

(4) LACE’O MY ASO vs (5) SK WAR DOG

First Round – Sunday (11/20) 1:30pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
It’s taken a number of seasons but finally Lace’O My Aso comes in as the legit favorite over arch-rivals SKW. In the past SKW has shamed LMA out of the playoffs, but they have a chance now to prove once and for all it’s a changing of the guard now.  LMA lost a few games with key players out, but at full strength, this is a contender.
LMA
4-3

64-61
SKW
4-3		 The defending champs are missing their starting backcourt of back to back titles, but it’s a testament of their depth that this team could very well defend that title with veteran (G) Dave Wong and key addition (G) John Hsu, as crafty a guard as you can find. Five players on SKW score in double-digits, and they’ll need that balance in this one.
Key Player: Mathew Joshy

There were a lot of great MVP caliber players this season, but Joshy rose to another level by not only dominating on both sides of the ball, but playing clutch ball all season, making big plays to get big wins. His play will be key here, SKW doesn’t have a good match-up.

 Pos: G
26.8 ppg
2.8 rpg
4.3 spg
Pos: G
20 ppg
2.5 rpg
1.5 spg		 Key Player: Vegas Dave Wong

Even at 40 years old, “Vegas Dave” is asked to one thing in this game, and that’s to score the rock. He can still do it with anyone in D1, scoring 38 in the regular season finale. If he gets hot, there’s really no stopping him. Well, there’s no stopping him from putting up shots regardless.