Category: Premier Division

TDL Spring 2017 End-of-Season Awards (Premier)

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER

MICHAEL SPRINGER

Team: We Had Game
Position: PG
Statistics: 21.3 ppg, 39% FGs, 7.6 rpg, 6 apg, 2.6 spg
 Runner-up: (G) James Wang (SIX) 32.7 ppg, 54% FGs, 5.3 rpg, 1.3 apg, 2 spg

Wat Misaka Defensive Most Outstanding Player

CHAZ THOMAS

Team: Metta World War
Position: G/F
Statistics: 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1 bpg, 1.3 fpg
 Runner-up: N/A

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

SEAMUS MCKIERNAN

Team: Peace & Love
Position: F/C
Statistics: 16.5 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.3 bpg
 Runner-up: (F) Nick Pelletier (MWW) 12 ppg, 10 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.3 spg

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

JAMES WANG

Team: Team Six
Position: G
Statistics: 32.7 ppg, 54% FGs, 5.3 rpg, 2 spg
 Runner-up: (G) Josh Hyon (SPA) 21.5 ppg, 53% FGs, 3.8 rpg, 1 apg

All-Dynasty First Team

(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 21.3 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 6 apg, 2.6 spg
(G) James Wang (SIX) 32.7 ppg, 54% FGs, 5.3 rpg, 2 spg
(F) Michael Reding (DYN) 22 ppg, 53% FGs, 8 rpg, 3.3 apg
(F) Young Song (SPA) 15.5 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 spg
(C) Stedford McCleod (MWW) 20.2 ppg, 47% FGs, 3.8 rpg, 1.8 spg

All-Dynasty Second Team

(G) Shamel Arasmo (MWW) 22.4 ppg, 47% FGs, 3.8 rpg, 1.8 spg
(G) Josh Hyon (SPA) 21.5 ppg, 53% FGs, 3.8 rpg, 1 apg
(F) Zack Simmons (WHG) 17.9 ppg, 50% FGs, 8 rpg, 1.5 spg
(F) Sam Marshall (SIX) 15.8 ppg, 54% FGs, 9.8 rpg, 1.5 spg
(C) Seamus McKiernan (PNL) 16.5 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.3 bpg

Honorable Mention: Morgan Blakely (PNL), Martin Brusewitz (STM)

All-Defensive Team

(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 7.6 rpg, 2.6 spg, 0.1 bpg, 2.6 fpg
(G) Landon Glover (DYN) 8.4 rpg, 2.2 spg, 0.6 bpg, 1.2 fpg
(F) Chaz Thomas (MWW) 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1 bpg, 1.3 fpg
(F) Kareem Merrick (MWW) 8.4 rpg, 0.8 spg, 1 bpg, 3.2 fpg
(C) Seamus McKiernan (PNL) 10.3 rpg, 1.3 spg, 1.3 bpg, 2.3 fpg

Honorable mention: Jin Hong (SPA), Oz Omokaro (DYN)

All-Hustle Team

(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 21.3 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 6 apg, 2.6 spg
(G) Landon Glover (DYN) 13.8 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 5 apg, 2.2 spg
(F) Young Song (SPA) 15.5 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 spg
(F) Nick Pelletier (MWW) 12 ppg, 10 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.3 spg
(C) Seamus McKiernan (PNL) 16.5 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 1.3 spg, 1.3 bpg

Honorable mention: Garrett James (DYN), Jeremy Kaplan-Lyman (WHG)

All-Rookie Team

(G) James Wang (SIX) 32.7 ppg, 54% FGs, 5.3 rpg, 2 spg
(G) Josh Hyon (SPA) 21.5 ppg, 53% FGs, 3.8 rpg, 1 apg
(G) Daniel Ortiz (PNL) 11.4 ppg, 62% FGs, 4.4 rpg, 2.2 apg
(F) Immanuel Thomas (STM) 16.7 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.7 bpg
(F) Noah Leime (MWW) 11.7 ppg, 9 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1 spg

Honorable mention: Bo McKinley (WHG)g

TDL Spring 2017 Playoff Previews (1st Round)

(4) NY DYNASTY vs (5) NYK SPARTANS

Premier Division Playoffs (1st Rd) – Wednesday, June 14, 8pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
During the regular season, the NY DYNASTY came from behind to beat SPA, barely holding on in the final seconds. But they did not have (F) Michael Reding in the line up for that one, the team’s top scorer. The addition of (C) Ezra Hoover has been huge, bolstering their back line defense, and giving them an athleticism they lacked. 
DYN
4-3

63-61
SPA
3-4		 When (G) Josh Hyon joined the NYK SPARTANS, he brought new life to an aging back court. Now he is one of the Premier’s most exciting guards to watch. With his addition, (F) Young Song‘s numbers have declined, but the Spartans needed the additional scoring option for a more versatile attack. If they get hot, this team can win it all.
Key Player: Michael Reding

Reding has been hit or miss on WNs in the past, but this season he’s been red hot, making a career-best 6.3 3pg for 22 ppg. Contributing across the stat sheet, he’s been DYN’s best player this season.

 Pos: F
22 ppg
6.3 rpg
8 rpg
Pos: G
21.5 ppg
2.8 3pg
3.8 rpg		 Key Player: Josh Hyon

The rookie Hyon has a knock down mid-range jumper and is a nifty ball-handler, able to find his way to the hoop for easy buckets. He is an efficient scorer that will need the focus of the opposing D.

(3) METTA WORLD WAR vs (6) PEACE & LOVE

Premier Division Playoffs (1st Rd) – Wednesday, June 14, 9pm at MLK HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
METTA WORLD WAR‘s defense hasn’t been as airtight as in the past, but they still have the league’s top defensive player in veteran (F) Chaz Thomas. Offensively, they’ve been solid. Despite total team ppg being down, (G) Shamel Arasmo & (C) Stedford McCleod have steadily score 20+ ppg. And they have three other double-digit scorers who can break out any time. 
MWW
5-2

65-60
PNL
2-5		 PEACE & LOVE has a whopping five double-digit scorers led by (G) Morgan Blakely and (F) Seamus McKiernan. Defense has been the issue, giving up 67 ppg while scoring just 65 ppg. But they have kept most games relatively close with an efficient offense, and if they can pick up their defense late in this one, they might have a shot at upsetting the former champs.
Key Player: Shamel Arasmo

Arasmo has long been one of TDL’s best scorers. He doesn’t beat you with outright speed, he is crafty at getting to the rim and has unlimited range from behind the arc. If he’s shooting well from three, MWW is almost bulletproof.

 Pos: G
22.4 ppg
3.8 apg
1.8 spg
Pos: G
20 ppg
6.2 rpg
2.8 apg		 Key Player: Morgan Blakely

The veteran guard has been a work horse, consistently leading his team in scoring and hustle plays. Blakely is a big, physical guard who isn’t afraid of the dirty work. His team just needs to get over this hump and find a way to upset.

TDL Winter 2017 End-of-Season Awards (Premier)

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER

TOM KILLIAM

Team: F.K.A.L.J.s
Position: SG/SF
Statistics: 25.3 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.3 apg, 0.8 spg
 Runner-up: (G/F) Ezra Ritchin (WHG) 27.3 ppg, 2.7 3pg, 5 rpg, 2 apg

Wat Misaka Defensive Most Outstanding Player

MICHAEL HICKMAN

Team: Team Coliseum
Position: PF/C
Statistics: 10.8 rpg, 0.3 spg, 2.5 spg, 2.5 fpg
 Runner-up: (G/F) Will Haile (DYN) 10.2 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1 bpg, 1.5 fpg

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

WILL HAILE

Team: NY Dynasty
Position: SG/SF
Statistics: 15 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1 bpg
 Runner-up: (G) Landon Glover (COL) 18.4 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 3.4 apg, 1.4 spg

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

DAVID KALEMA

Team: F.K.A.L.J.s
Position: PG/SG
Statistics: 25.3 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.3 apg, 0.8 spg
 Runner-up: (G/F) Jordan Schultz (WHG) 18.7 ppg, 4 3pg, 3 rpg, 5 apg

All-Dynasty First Team

(G) Landon Glover (COL) 18.4 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 3.4 apg, 1.4 spg
(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 16.8 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 7.2 apg, 3 spg
(G) David Kalema (FKA) 21.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1 spg
(F) Ezra Ritchin (WHG) 27.3 ppg, 2.7 3pg, 5 rpg, 2 apg
(F) Tom Killiam (FKA) 25.3 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.3 apg, 0.8 spg

All-Dynasty Second Team

(G) Garrett James (DYN) 18 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 3.3 apg, 2 spg
(G) Shamel Arasmo (MWW) 17.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 3.3 apg, 3 spg
(F) Parker McClelland (SIX) 15.4 ppg, 3 3pg, 4.8 rpg, 0.6 bpg
(F) Will Haile (DYN) 15 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1 bpg
(C) Stedford McCleod (MWW) 14.4 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 2 apg, 0.8 spg 

All-Defensive Team

(G) Landon Glover (COL) 10.6 rpg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg, 2 fpg
(G) Will Haile (DYN) 10.2 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1 bpg, 1.5 fpg
(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 6.8 rpg, 3 spg, 0.2 bpg, 1.2 fpg
(F) Mike Holsey (FKA) 8.8 rpg, 1.3 spg, 1.8 bpg, 2.3 fpg
(C) Michael Hickman (COL) 10.8 rpg, 0.3 spg, 2.5 spg, 2.5 fpg

All-Hustle Team

(G) Landon Glover (COL) 18.4 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg
(G) Will Haile (DYN) 15 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 2.5 spg, 1 bpg
(G) Jason Crowell (GMM) 16.3 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 2 spg, 1 bpg
(F) Seamus McKiernan (DYN) 10 ppg, 10.8 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.6 bpg
(C) Michael Hickman (COL) 11 ppg, 10.8 rpg, 0.3 spg, 2.5 bpg

All-Rookie Team

(G) Donnell Mitchell (GMM) 20.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 4.3 apg, 2.2 spg
(G) David Kalema (FKA) 21.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1 spg
(F) Jordan Schultz (WHG) 18.7 ppg, 4 3pg, 3 rpg, 5 apg
(F) Tom Killiam(FKA) 25.3 ppg, 7 rpg, 3.3 apg, 0.8 spg
(C) Michael Hickman (COL) 11 ppg, 10.8 rpg, 0.3 spg, 2.5 bpg

TDL Winter 2017 Championship Preview (Premier, D3)

(2) SKILLSHARE vs (5) NY DYNASTY

D3 WN Championship – Thursday, March 30, 7:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Defending champs SKILLSHARE are back in the chip. And so long as they didn’t have to face SPR before now, it seemed like an inevitability. (G) Elliott Curtis and (F) Scott Sullivan will put up big #s, and (C) Anthony Hull is easily the biggest player on the floor, and (G) Mike Hamane will lead SKL’s physical D. DYN won’t have the size or depth to match-up with SKL, but to close them out, SKL will have to make sure they don’t hot from three.
SKL
5-3

62-58
DYN
5-4		 Skillshare may have two of the Top 5 players in the league this season, but the NY DYNASTY might have two more. (G) Ren Hsieh & (G) David Chu are arguably the best back court in D3. And in the playoffs, they are scoring a combined 46 ppg on 52% FGs, incl 58% from 3. Veteran role players are key for DYN. When everyone is on the same page, and the shots are falling, this is a very tough team to beat in single-elim.
Key Player: Scott Sullivan

There are really no other players in this division that have Sullivan’s combination of size, physicality and mobility. He is a relentless attacker on offense and on the glass. If DYN can’t stay in front of him, he will dismantle their D, one that’s not great a foot speed to begin with.

 Pos: F
23.0 ppg
7.0 rpg
2.0 apg
Pos: G
28.0 ppg
6.0 3pg
2.5 spg		 Key Player: David Chu

At the D3 level, you can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him. It helps that his team does everything it can to get him as many touches as he needs to get it going. Chu is, however, nursing a back injury, so it will be interesting to see how that affect his range.
X-Factor: Michael Hamane

Starting PG Elliott Curtis will get his, but the x-factor for SKL is Hamane. Very capable of putting up a 20-pt game, if his 3-pointer is falling, then DYN is in for a long-time night. They can shift their D to guard Curtis and Sullivan, maybe Hull, but Hamane, too? That’s too much for any team.

 Pos: F
21.5 ppg
5.0 rpg
3.5 apg
Pos: F
9.0 ppg
5.5 rpg
2.0 spg		 X-Factor: Brian Yang

In their first match-up with SKL, the veteran Yang gave DYN some much needed points in the paint with crafty moves and some tough finishes around the rim. He is an undersized post player, but his heady play will be a major factor in whether or not DYN can pull off this upset. 

(3) F.K.A.L.J.S vs (4) TEAM SIX

Premier Championship – Thursday, March 30, 8:45pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
You’d have to say it’s destiny at this point. F.K.A.L.J.S capt (G) Mike Salerno once helmed for their opponent Team Six until he left the team unceremoniously before they won their first title. This FKA team is the new girlfriend, so to speak, and they are fully loaded. (F) Tom Killiam and (G) David Kalema are as lethal a duo as any in this division, and they’re surrounded by shooters. FKA’s been the best team in Premier for the past month.
FKA
6-3

65-62
SIX
6-3		 It wasn’t there strongest reg season, but TEAM SIX just needed to make the playoffs. They know what it takes to get back to the title game, this is their third straight appearance. (G) Brett Swanson found the range in the Rd 1 to help them get past WHG. (G) BJ Davis used his speed to help SIX beat reigning champs MWW in the semis. It’s been a team effort all season with players stepping up just when SIX needs them most. No reason that should change now.
Key Player: Tom Killiam

We’ve reviewed Killiam ad nauseum at this point: athletic and he’ll score. Try to stop him, good luck. But don’t sleep on Kalema, who is crafty in the paint. He won’t beat you with the Killiams’ athleticism, but he finds a way to get into the paint to score.

 Pos: G
21.7 ppg
3.8 rpg
2.7 apg
Pos: G
8.8 ppg
4.7 rpg
3.3 apg		 Key Player: B.J. Davis

The rookie Davis showed off his speed in their semifinal win over MWW in a way we hadn’t really seen all season. But if he’s found niche in the rotation now, it’s great timing. He will be the fastest player on the floor and SIX will need him.
X-Factor: Mike Holsey

When available, Holsey is the paint defender that ties the whole team together. The other FKA forwards are big, and rebound well, but aren’t fast. Holsey makes up for that by challenging everything at the rim.

 Pos: C
4.8 ppg
8.8 rpg
1.8 bpg
Pos: G
10.2 ppg
3.4 rpg
3.0 apg		 X-Factor: Brent Swanson

Swanson is a heady veteran player who will always make a contribution whether he’s hitting his jumper or not, but man, when that 3-pointer is falling, it falls in waves. If Swanson is hot, this one’s a barn-burner. 

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Preview (Premier, D1)

(3) ASPHALT NINJAS vs (6) TOP STARS

D1 WN Playoffs (1st Round) – Wednesday, March 22, 7:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
The ASPHALT NINJAS have been a low-key contender this season. They are actually better than the team that made the title game last season, but it’s been a quiet run. This team has all the pieces it needs to not only go back to the chip, but this time to win it.
ASN
5-2

63-59
TOP
2-5		 One of the wins the TOP STARS needed to get here was vs a Premier division team, one that is a 3 seed in that division. They got it. Last year TOP made one of the most improbable playoff runs in league history. They’ll try it again, as if they have catching lightning figured out.
Key Player: Kev Chang

The veteran Chang led all guards in scoring this season is D1 WN. And he has been all the difference for ASN. With a bona fide scorer on the wing, his slashing ability has created open shots for all his teammates.

 Pos: G
20.2 ppg
5.8 rpg
2.4 spg
Pos: F/C
15.1 ppg
8 rpg
2 apg		 Key Player: Quinn Hood

Hood was the best player in the D1 WN playoffs last season. One-on-one he was the toughest match-up all the way through to the chip. He hasn’t had the same impact this season, but it’s playoff time now. 

(2) NY DYNASTY vs (3) F.K.A.L.J.S

Premier Playoffs (Semifinals) – Wednesday, March 22, 8:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Injuries have hit NY DYNASTY at the most inopportune time. (F) Ian McBride has a gimpy hamstring, (C) Reid Wittman, having his best all around season, is out for the season with a bad back. 38 y.o. (G) Ren Hsieh is the walking dead. They have survived every win, and they’ll have to do it again.
DYN
5-2

61-60
FKA
4-3		 F.K.A.L.J.S. just barely lost an OT game to a then healthier DYN in the regular season. They could very well be in upset mode tonight. (G) David Kalema and (F) Tom Killiam will be the focal points on offense, but (C) Mike Holsey is key to their D. And if FKA’s wings hits some 3s, it opens up everything.
Key Player: Garrett James

James has carried the load for DYN for several seasons now. He is their Mr. Reliable, maybe the best in the League at getting into the paint. This season hasn’t been his most efficient, but if he’s hitting his jumper, he can take over a game.

 Pos: G
18 ppg
4.8 rpg
3.3 apg
Pos: F
25.3 ppg
7 rpg
3.3 apg		 Key Player: Tom Killiam

With no Chaz Thomas this season, FKA’s Killiam may be the Premier’s most athletic player. It gives him the ability to get any shot he wants. And he makes them at an impressive clip. Killiam will be a tough match up for DYN’s undersized wings.

(1) METTA WORLD WAR vs (4) TEAM SIX

Premier Playoffs (Semifinals) – Wednesday, March 22, 9:30pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
It’s almost as if doesn’t matter who they’re missing METTA WORLD WAR is always the favorite to win it all. With (G) Shamel Arasmo at the helm, and their commitment to D, MWW still has the pieces to defend their title. But they’ll need to shoot better to better their odds.
MWW
5-2

65-59
SIX
4-3		 TEAM SIX still has never beaten MWW in the post-season. And this roster isn’t as stacked as past teams, but they still beat a very good WHG team to get here. And guess what, (G) Brett Swanson is heating up, something we’re used to seeing from him in the playoffs now.
Key Player: Shamel Arasmo 

Arasmo is the most nimble player in Premier, able to get to any spot he wants to on the floor. The question is always whether he’s on or off. If he’s on, MWW is pretty unbeatable. If he’s off, he can still find a way.

 Pos: G
17.5 ppg
4.5 rpg
3.3 apg
Pos: G
21 ppg
6 3pg
5 rpg		 Key Player: Brett Swanson

Sometimes it looks like Swanson is coasting through the regular season, but when the games start counting, all of a sudden that jumper is knock down. They’ll need more of this as SIX tries to upset MWW tonight.

TDL Winter 2017 Playoff Preview (D3 & Premier)

(3) NYCE vs (6) GAME OF ZONES

D3 Playoffs (1st Round) – Wednesday, March 15, 7pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
NYCE has a big, tough, and physical front court that can dominate a game on the defensive end. What they can get offensively from their guards is usually what determines if they can win the game. If NYCE can slow the pace down and use their advantage in the paint, they are the favorites to advance to the semis. 
NYE
4-3

46-42
GOZ
2-5		 In their regular season meeting, it looked like GAME OF ZONES had it won until NYE’s late comeback to steal it. That was one of GOZ’s best games as a team, and (G) Tommy Zheng wasn’t even on the floor. This is a scrappy team that will put up the effort, and Zheng gives them the dynamic scorer they need.
Key Player: D. Cunningham

NYE (F) DaVaughn Cunningham is the team’s best defensive player, and he controls the game on that end. He can also score, and has made some big shots this season in crunch time. NYCE’s chances start with his all-around play.

 Pos: F
10.1 ppg
8.3 rpg
2.1 bpg
Pos: G
18.5 ppg
4.0 rpg
1.5 spg		 Key Player: Tommy Zheng

It took awhile for Zheng to join the GOZ roster as he recovered from an early season injury, but he was a perfect fit as soon as he stepped on the floor. He’s the play-maker they have need all season. His speed and shooting can force big mismatches. 

(3) F.K.A.L.J.S vs (6) TEAM COLISEUM

Premier Playoffs (1st Round) – Wednesday, March 15, 8pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
F.K.A.L.J.S. just played COL last week and it went to the last shot. They survived, despite not playing well in their last 2 gms. That tends to fluctuate with their roster, which is always short-handed. If (G) David Kalema and (F) Tom Killiam are there, FKA has serious firepower. And (C) Mike Holsey‘s defensive presence is key. If any of these guys are missing, it might be 50/50 here.
FKA
4-3

66-61
COL
2-5		 The record is not strong, but TEAM COLISEUM has played better as of late. (F/C) Michael Hickman is a defensive force in the paint, and their offense has picked up with (F) Jimmy Noel and (G) Kashean Allston giving (G) Landon Glover some support on the wings. If they keep up their strong play, this might be a case of a team getting hot at just the right time.
Key Player: Tom Killiam

Killiam is an athletic forward who is as adept at finishing in transition as he is elevating to hit the jumper. It’s his athleticism that gets him open shots, they’re mostly indefensible. If he gets hot, he can put up a lot of points in this game.

 Pos: F
25.3 ppg
7.0 rpg
3.3 apg
Pos: G
18.4 ppg
10.6 rpg
3.4 apg		 Key Player: Landon Glover

The veteran Glover is arguably the Premier’s most versatile guard, but the 3’s & FTs haven’t been going in as much this season, both of which are go-tos for Glover late in games. This could be fatigue for doing so much, but it’s all or nothing now.

(4) TEAM SIX vs (5) WE HAD GAME

Premier Playoffs (1st Round) – Wednesday, March 15, 9pm at Fashion HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
This hasn’t been TEAM SIX‘s most focused season. The former champs and perennial contenders seem to have been looking ahead to playoffs all season. Now they’re here, and it’s now or never to start opening it up. They certainly have the roster to do it. (G) Brett Swanson can heat up at any moment and rookie (G) BJ Davis has given them a player with an extra gear this season.
SIX
4-3

65-66
WHG
4-3		 This is a demonstrably better team, but nevertheless, WE HAD GAME is back in the 5 seed. Part of that has to do with key players being out, their top 2 scorers have played only 3 games each. But, at full strength, WHG is still a serious contender. New faces (G) Jordan Schultz and (G) Zack Simmons add knock down range and savvy to a team that was already solid on that front.
Key Player: P. McClelland

McClelland has had some games in which he has looked unstoppable this season, but like his team overall, it just hasn’t been very consistent. Still, the match-ups should bend in his favor, so if he can heat up in this game, it could be his world.

 Pos: F
15.4 ppg
4.8 rpg
0.6 spg
Pos: F
27.3 ppg
5.0 rpg
2.0 apg		 Key Player: Ezra Ritchin

You wouldn’t know it to look at him, but Ritchin is the most relentless scorer in the Premier. He just keeps attacking you in the paint and he can also hit the 3. Ritchin’s FG efficiency is through the roof, and to top it all off, he’s a feisty defender, too.

TDL Winter 2017 Week 5 Player Awards (Premier & 1st Division)

PREMIER DIVISION

Premier Division Player of the Week

(G/F) WILL HAILE (NY DYNASTY)

28 points, 4 3FGs, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, 1 block
Runner-up: (F) Ezra Ritchin (WHG) 37 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block

Wat Misaka Defensive Player of the Week

(G/F) WILL HAILE (NY DYNASTY)

5 rebounds, 4 steals, 1 block
Runner-up: (G) Michael Springer (WHG) 7 rebounds, 4 steals

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

(G) MICHAEL SPRINGER (WE HAD GAME)

11 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, 4 steals
Runner-up: (G/F) Zack Simmons (WHG) 11 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

(F) IAN MCBRIDE (NY DYNASTY)

14 points, 3 3FGs, 4 assists, 1 block
Runner-up: (G) BJ Davis (SIX) 11 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block

The High-5 Club

Will Haile (DYN) 28-5-1-4-1
Max Shillalies (SIX) 4-4-1-2-2

Weekly League Leaders 

PTS: Ezra Ritchin (WHG) 37, Will Haile (DYN) 28
3FG: Will Haile (DYN), Ezra Ritchin (WHG) 4
REB: Jacob Bratman (WHG), Reid Wittman (DYN) 10
AST: Michael Springer (WHG) 8, Pat Armstrong (DYN) 6
STL: [4 players] 4, [2 players] 2
BLK: Max Shillalies (SIX) 2, [7 players] 1

1ST DIVISION (WEEKNIGHTS)

1st Division (WN) Player of the Week

(G/F) MAXWELL RUFFIN (JUSTICE LEAGUE)

23 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 1 block
Runner-up: (F) Zach Moretti (HON) 24 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals

Wat Misaka Defensive Player of the Week

(G) ALEX TSAY (HONEY BADGERS)

7 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block
Runner-up: (G/F) Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 15 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

(G/F) MAXWELL RUFFIN (JUSTICE LEAGUE)

23 points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 1 block
Runner-up: (G) Alex Tsay (HON) 12 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals, 1 block

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

(F) GAUTAM KAPUR (TOP STARS)

12 points, 6 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 blocks
Runner-up: (C) Jason Canidate (ALL)  11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks

The High-5 Club

Kasime Cole (JLA) 11-11-1-1-1
Anderson Garcia (JLA) 2-5-1-2-1
Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 23-15-5-2-1
Alex Tsay (HON) 12-7-6-3-1

Weekly League Leaders 

PTS: Zach Moretti (HON) 24, Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 23
3FG: Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 3, [5 players] 2
REB: Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 15, Kasime Cole (JLA) 11
AST: Alex Tsay (HON) 6, Maxwell Ruffin (JLA) 5
STL: Jerrell Lawrence, Polo Mendez (ALL) 4
BLK: Jason Canidate (ALL), Gautam Kapur (TOP) 2

TDL Fall 2016 End-of-Season Player Honors

Position: G/F
Seasons: 7

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER

CHAZ THOMAS (METTA WORLD WAR)

Statistics: 17.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.8 apg, 3.7 spg, 1.7 bpg

Season Notes: Now with multiple MOP awards, this season was a testament to Thomas’ ability to fill in to any role his team needs. Thomas was able to dominate on both sides of the ball all season, and always seemed to make just the right play when his team needed it most. He was MWW’s closer this season.
 Runner-up: (G) Scott Weisfeld (SIX) 18.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 7.3 apg, 2 spg
Position: G/F
Seasons: 7

Wat Misaka Defensive Most Outstanding Player

CHAZ THOMAS (METTA WORLD WAR)

Statistics: 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1.7 bpg, 0.7 fpg

Season Notes: And this here is why Thomas is so good. Not only did he fit in seamlessly to MWW’s high-octane offense, he was also the league’s most dominant defender. Tasked every game with guarding the other team’s best scorer while also flying in protect the rim from the perimeter.
 Runner-up: (F/C) Osazee Omokaro (DYN) 9.8 rpg, 1 spg, 2.2 bpg, 3 fpg 
Position: F/C
Seasons: 2

The Sam Lo Hustle Award

OSAZEE OMOKARO (NY DYNASTY)

Statistics: 11.6 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1 spg, 2.2 bpg

Season Notes: It wasn’t a great season for the Dynasty, but not for lack of effort from Omokaro. Often playing every position on the court (and defending every position), Omokaro laid it all on the floor every game.
 Runner-up: ()
Position: F
Seasons: R

Spot Dessert Bar Most Outstanding Rookie

JASON GRAFFAM (WE HAD GAME)

Statistics: 16.3 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.5 bpg

Season Notes: Graffam started the season as knockdown shooter, able to also score around the basket in a variety of ways. As the season progressed, the offense shifted away from Graffam, but he was always a solid option.
 Runner-up: (G) O.J. Samples (BOO) 15.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1 apg, 1 spg

All-Dynasty First Team

(G) Scott Weisfeld (SIX) 18.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 7.3 apg, 2 spg
(G) Garrett James (DYN) 22.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.7 spg
(G) Morgan Blakely (FC2) 18.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 4.3 apg, 1.7 spg
(F) Chaz Thomas (MWW) 17.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1.7 bpg
(F) Nick Annacone (MWW) 16.8 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1 bpg

All-Dynasty Second Team

(G) Landon Glover (GMM) 17 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.8 apg, 0.8 bpg
(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 17.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 7.2 apg, 2.2 spg
(F) Nate Jones (BOO) 20.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1 spg
(F) Tyson Hartnett (FC2) 16.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 1.4 apg, 0.4 bpg
(F) Askia Davis (GMM) 15.4 ppg, 8.8 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.8 bpg

All-Defensive Team

(G) Scott Weisfeld (SIX) 4.3 rpg, 2 spg, 0.3 bpg, 1 fpg
(G) Chaz Thomas (MWW) 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1.7 bpg, 0.7 fpg
(F) Oz Omokaro (DYN) 9.8 rpg, 1 spg, 2.2 bpg, 3 fpg
(F) Kareem Merrick (MWW) 7 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1.3 bpg, 2.8 fpg
(C) Kyle Clark (WHG) 6 rpg, 0.3 spg, 1.7 bpg, 2 fpg

All-Hustle Team

(G) Gus Gauntlett (FC2) 4.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 8.6 apg, 2.8 spg, 0.2 bpg
(G) Michael Springer (WHG) 17.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 7.2 apg, 2.2 spg
(F) Will Haile (DYN) 7.3 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.3 spg, 1 bpg
(F) Chaz Thomas (MWW) 17.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.7 spg, 1.7 bpg
(C) Osazee Omokaro (DYN) 11.6 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1 spg, 2.2 bpg

All-Rookie Team

(G) O.J. Samples (BOO) 15.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1 apg, 1 spg
(G) Ryan Mulligan (BOO) 6.3 ppg, 7 rpg, 3 apg, 0.8 spg
(F) Jason Graffam (WHG) 16.3 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 bpg
(F) Kyle Clark (WHG) 10.7 ppg, 2.3 apg, 6 rpg, 1.7 bpg
(C) Jeremy Kaplan-Lyman (WHG) 8.3 ppg, 8 rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 bpg

TDL Fall 2016 Championship Preview (Premier)

(1) METTA WORLD WAR vs (2) TEAM SIX

Championship – Wednesday (12/6) 8pm at Murry Bergtraum HS

Team Notes Team Score Team Team Notes
Guess who’s back? In four seasons now, Metta World War has reached the championship game three times. They have never lost a title game, and they have never lost to SIX in any game. The Mettas are here to pick up some black & gold snapbacks. Their only weakness all season, if you can call it that, was depth. Often playing short-handed, it hasn’t mattered yet, but with SIX’s deep roster, it just might.
MWW
7-0

65-63
SIX
6-1		 As much as MWW is looking to reassert their dynasty, Team Six is looking to build onto theirs. They are the defending champs after all, and they want those gold snapbacks just as badly, if not more. They have the deepest roster in the league, and a clutch PG at the helm who makes all the right plays at the end of games. They’ve never been more evenly matched with MWW, this one is virtually a toss-up.
Key Player: Chaz Thomas

Easily the best two-way player that TDL has ever seen. Thomas is an MVP candidate every season, and this was one of his best, leading the team in scoring, steals and blocks. In the semis, he was 100% tuned in. If that holds up, can’t lose.

X-Factor: Shamel Arasmo

Arasmo is also a former MVP, which attests to how much talent is on the MWW roster. This hasn’t been his strongest season, but he is more than capable of a dominant final game to close out another title. 

 Pos: G/F
17.8 ppg
3.7 spg
1.7 bpg

 

Pos: G
14.7 ppg
3.5 apg
3.2 spg
Pos: G
18.7 ppg
4.3 rpg
7.3 apg

 


Pos: F
19.5 ppg
12.5 rpg
3 apg

 Key Player: Scott Weisfeld

If Thomas is the MVP for MWW then Weisfeld stakes that claim for SIX, that’s because both are not only counted on for big #s, but they’re also the catalyst on both ends of the ball teams. Never mind his size, Weisfeld is a huge competitor.

X-Factor: Marcus Brown

Brown hasn’t been present for quite some time, but he is still eligible for the playoffs. When he was on the floor for SIX this season, he was a dominant force. He can be the game changer if he’s available.