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Saturday, October 16
15 years ago
Yo from RoPo!
NEWS: (From 
steviemaxwell)
Hopes for the Future: Inside the 2010 FBA Draft
Oh What A Night - by Patrick Suarez
In a large auditorium at FBA Headquarters, the remains of a lavish buffet are being cleared away, with a couple scavengers picking at some of the more tasty leftovers. An intricate display module is being disassembled and inspected by nervous engineers, hoping to troubleshoot and improve the expensive system for the next broadcast. Security guards are strolling through the area to escort the last few stragglers from the tables, most with looks of exhaustion or disappointment on their faces.
Several hours earlier, this room was brimming with furs full of confidence and of food, all buzzing with excitement and anticipation as FBA Commissioner Sterne Davids welcomed one and all to the 2010 FBA Draft ceremony.
Before the draft started, Avery Wells (Donkey, C) was recognized by the front office for his 20 years in the league as his retirement was officially announced. The trio of Fred Kimteech (Cheetah), Stevie Maxwell (Giant Panda), and Sal Muller (Mole) were also recognized for their 10 years of service as FBA officials. Lastly, a special Annual FBA Contributors Award was announced for a presentation to its recipient at the FurFright convention prior to the Howlereen game that weekend.
The first three picks of the night held no surprises, with Williamsburg and Des Moines and Montana picking the top three rated players of the draft in order. But when Kansas City chose Ezra Rosenbaum (Lioness, G) instead of the higher-rated Wescot Yobia (Binturong, F/C), Santa Ana scooped up the Underwood College graduate with their first pick and chose a street baller with their late second-round pick. When asked about the Spectrums' draft choices and roster issues, head coach and former FBA MVP Jackson Price remarked: "We got exactly who we came out to get.... we've still got our eyes on several players, and we will be approaching them shortly."
The Arctics managed to score a second first-round pick in the top 8 with an off-season trade, choosing Mark Ferramin (Ferret, C) with the #6 pick and Ione Estrada (Chameleon, G/F) with the #8 pick. The Sand Dollars also managed to secure a second first-round pick in the top 16 from an off-season trade, selecting Joshua Koda (White Tiger, C) and Ana Azara (Snow Leopard, G) with the #13 and #16 picks respectively. When the Whips chose Leo Seppala (Wolfdog, G) with their #18 pick and N!xau Xamseb (Lion, F) with their #42 pick, a three-team trade sent Flyswatter down to Galveston and The Artist into Santa Fe while The Arctic Storm was packaged with Adolfa Girau Girau (Otorongo, G/F) and shipped up to Alaska.
After Wendy Brown (Saber-toothed Tiger, G) and Krystal Bunny (Rabbit, G) were chosen by the Bantams and the Mounties, Albany was on the clock for their #10 pick. Unfortunately, the Alphas table was deserted and no one in the front office had any word from team management. Dreysanius Acrutar, owner of the Rocky Mountain Royals, shared this comment on Albany's absence: "I'm rather disappointed. My lovely wife gets to annoy Foo-Foo (owner of the Stanislaus Thrust), but it seems Frump the Grump's hiding from me." Commissioner Davids skipped the Alphas to continue the draft, and the Royals chose Dirk Von Stryker (German Giant Rabbit, C) with their #11 pick, as well as fellow lapine Harry Redford (Hare, C) with their second-round pick. "If there was anything this team needed, it was height, and I believe these picks will add that much-needed asset," remarked Mr. Acrutar. "We need good centers. [Angus] MacColl (Brown Bear, C) may be retiring after this season, and we'd like to have good jumpers if he does."
Last year, the Huntsville Mayors gave up their #2 pick Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) and both of their draft picks for this year to the Montana Howlers for Charles Yotechuk (Coyote, F). However, transactions during this past season got City Hall two picks anyway, and both in the first round. Bailey Brisbane (Catahoula Leopard Hound, G) was the eighth-highest rated player, and Huntsville scooped up the Underwood College graduate with their #12 pick. Later in the evening the Mayors would select Nicky Brown (Cockatoo, F) with their #20 pick.
The Mudpuppies were on the clock for the #14 pick, and tapped Devon Kellendyne (Cacomistle, G) to come to Mississippi. Silas Rand (Squirrel, G), another Underwood College graduate, was also chosen by Biloxi with their second-round pick. Mudpuppies GM Pharaoh Redd seemed very satisfied with his team's choices, even though that puts seven guards in his roster. "Devon will serve as a backup to Barton [Rouge] (Fox, G). We needed a decent backup, as we found the hard way last season. Si serves our purposes because we need a fast shooting guard, and he is, indeed, fast. He got overshadowed at UDub because of Wescot and Jarrod [Frola] (Cat, F) and Bailey, but we all knew he was a good one, so I don't really regret our choices. I suppose down the road, our next goal will have to be a forward.... Someone to study under Redneck Bill."
At #15 were the Rapids with their lone pick of the night. For the beginning of the draft, Spokane GM Nightfire Kitsura was heard talking to his secretary about how things were all going according to plan. A couple of the picks seemed to catch him off-guard, as his secretary was sent to the commissioner with "Plan D", which apparently meant drafting Blanc Mange (White Wolf, F) out of France. "I am quite happy with whom I picked. It wasn't originally my first choice, mind you, but in a sense we got a blessing in disguise. I really was expecting that Blanc would have been taken in the top 10," said Mr. Kitsura. "This year I am looking to build a good team... too long the Rapids relied on one player, [John] Stoat (Stoat, G), until we got [Alan] Chesuk (Moose, C). Now that Stoat is out for a while we are back down to one star. We can't allow ourselves to fall in that same mess."
With the #17 pick of the draft, the Pride skipped higher-rated players to select Jarrod Frola out of Underwood College, while in the second round Newark's #41 pick was Gordon Reilly (Moose, F/C) from Vancouver, BC. While it's often said that you don't draft out of need, Pride GM Darren Zeraus admitted that he did just that. "We did that last year, hopefully we come out as well as we had last time.... Reilly's there to fill a hole we've had in bench for some time, giving Lance [Freewell] (Clouded Leopard, C) a chance to breath. We've been pushing our center hard and needed someone to support him from the bench. Though should Sheila [Andrews] (Grizzy Bear, F/C) not re-sign I suppose he could put a bandaid on that wound."
The Lorain Firestorm chose Serhan Tevetoglu (Turkish Angora Cat, F/C) with their #19 in the first round, and followed it up with Moki Ixtlahuac (Buck Deer, F) with their #43 pick in the second round. The FBA Champion Dakota Bikers selected Fritz Jansen (Paint Horse, G) with their #21 pick and Dan Ira (Armadillo, F/C) with their #45 pick, though the graphic to announce Boulderdash's selection was "hacked" to show Sterne Davids (Weasel, W) of Street Cred, NY as Dakota's second round choice. The Plymouth Taproots drafted Gerrit-Jan Pretorius (Lion, F) and Xander Ori (Raccoon, G) with their #22 and #46 picks, respectively.
The Pittsburgh Keystones, formerly the Springfield Fusion, traded away their early first round draft pick for the second-to-last pick in the top 24. The fourteenth-highest rated player was still available, however, so the league's newest team picked up Gilbert Exen (Anole, G)... who rushed the podium while Commissioner Davids was still up there and proceeded to express his gratitude and excitement at being drafted. Four picks later at #27, Pittsburgh would also draft Doug Day (Golden Retriever, C) who played with The Factor in his last year before going pro. Before making an early exit after his second-round pick, Keystones GM Terry McMasters remarked on his draft choices: "The team did great for its late picks. We have full confidence in Gilbert to take the 'Stones to the next level, and Doug will be a solid center and can fill in at power if need be. We are 100% confident in the roster we have and we're going to make sure the world knows later this month when the season starts."
With the best record of last season and no trades to change their position, the Stanislaus Thrust would have the final selections in both rounds. Pick #24 would be Blythe Nacht (Silver-phase Red Fox, G) of Nebraska while pick #48 would be Susan Kruegar (Raccoon, F/C) out of Massachusetts. Before the second round of picks began, though, Commissioner Davids received word out of the Albany offices. While his expression was fairly neutral, the weasel's tone indicated that the news was not good. Thankfully, their first round choice was still left on the board, as Jack Hinks (Landseer Dog, C) became the "#10" pick of the draft.
Williamsburg's dismal finish last season earned them the first overall pick and the first second round pick of the draft. With Vera La Tierra (Vixen, G) already chosen, Minutemen GM Samuel Gwosdz was looking quite despondent and seemed to be praying each time a forward's name was called. When the second round began with the #25 pick, the Virginia team quickly selected Damien Nathaniel (Hyena, F). "I was starting to freak out.... I had lost all perspective for a while there," Mr. Gwosdz said after the draft. "Fortunately for me and all those who saw me at the table there, I ended up going with the first plan I had devised.
Both the Moonshiners and the Typhoons has one pick from the draft in the second round, the Tennessee team selecting Aragon Fisher (Otter, G) with the #26 pick while the Tallahassee team chose Archi Redd (Tibetan Terrier, C) with the #36 pick. Typhoons GM and head coach Carter Clausen was available for a brief comment regarding his selection: "We felt we needed a little bit more size on the team after making the big trade [for Yotechuk]. Though it was the second round we felt there was a lot of talent still available. Archi is everything we wanted in a pick that was so late in the draft: size, skill, and maybe most important smarts. A guy who could pick things up quickly. He'll be a big help on defense and hopefully keep others from attacking Yotechuk."
With their third pick of the night at #28, the Sand Dollars chose Alex Merced (Lynx, G) out of Los Angeles, CA. Galveston GM Owen Michaels believes he did well with his three picks, and explained his perspective on the draft floor trade: "We had to do a bit of adjusting though, as our best plan before the draft wasn't necessarily the best plan as the draft went on. We liked Koda in workouts, and Tiggie [Jtigerclaw] (Tiger, G) seemed to take a quick liking to him, but we really need a solid guard or forward with defensive skills. Basically... we had a surplus of quality centers. That's why the move was made. I wish I could have them all on the team."
In another draft floor trade, the Mounties shipped off Joey Cox (Roadrunner, G) to the Spirits in exchange for Victor Vos (Red Fox, G) and the #40 pick of the draft. That pick was Jorge Vilata (Cat, G) while Ricky Beltran (Rabbit, F) became their #29 pick. Both of Baltimore's remaining picks were in the second round, with Clyde Moerke (Black Footed Ferret, F) and Brittany Jamestown (Lemur, G/F) being the #37 and #39 picks, respectively.
After Kansas City chose Okeya Dickinson (Cat, G) with their #30 pick, Alaska and Bradford were next. A slightly-inebriated Boris Petrov, owner of the Arctics, chose to do a favor for the British club and submit their draft choice along with his own. However, his circuitous route to the front podium delayed the process, and the assistants to the commissioner impatiently handed Mr. Davids the wrong card. When Kortni Whitelatch (Border Collie, F) was announced as the #31 pick for the Arctics, both Bantams management and the rest of Alaska's contingent stood up in shock and surprise. Rather than go through the trading process, the commissioner simply corrected the error by announcing Olya Gala (Siberian Husky, G) as the correct draft choice of the Arctics, while K-dub became the #32 pick for the Bantams.
Des Moines had the #33 pick and chose Uma Tapia (Stellar Sea Lion, F/C) of Naikoon, BC and formerly of the RCMP. When asked about the acquisitions of his team, Blanks GM O'dell Stapleton had this to say: "[Kenny] Henderson (Raccoon, F) and Tapia will both be beneficial to our roster and we're delighted to have them both! As for Telki Holland (Chinchilla, G), she and Halbert Lamar (Raccoon, G) will battle for the backup point guard role behind Les Moore (Rabbit, G)."
Near the end of the night, Montana had the penultimate draft choice as a result of Huntsville's second-best record last season. The Howlers selected Sam Wilson (Jackal, F) out of Hartford, CT, bringing their roster up to 15 players with a contract extension offer to their veteran point Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G). Montana GM Torsten Lynx felt his picks tonight satisfyingly met expectations. "We got our point guard and filled a forward spot that was up for grabs. We sincerely hope we get Rufus. I mean, he's now the face of our franchise and I can't possibly see him leave.... We signed most of our squad from last year, which we were aiming for, so we'll see what happens."
Indeed. We'll definitely see what happens.
Patrick Suarez is a reporter for FBA News and a correspondent for Furballer magazine.
NEWS: (From
Sam-Gwosdz)
WILLIAMSBURG (Va.) - The Minutemen held a large press conference to welcome back their two returning free agents, introduce their two new draft picks and welcome a new face to the Minutemen.
The Minutemen re-signed two veterans who have spent their entire careers with the team. Shooting guard Reggie Mackenzie (Bloodhound, G) was signed to a three-year, $9 million contract, while center Nick Nwabudike (Elephant, C) agreed to a four-year, $36 million deal.
"I'm so happy to be back with the Minutemen," Nwabudike said, a big smile on his face. "It's a real honor to play here and under Coach Roosevelt," he added. His slight accent was rather charming.
Reggie had the same outlook. "I'm glad that the Minnies still have interest in me," he said, which drew a laugh. "It's been a pleaure to play here, and I hope we can get a title in the next few years. I'll do whatever I can to help out."
Next, Vera La Tiérra (Red Vixen, G) and Damien Nathaniel (Hyena, G), the #1 and #25 picks in Sunday's draft, were welcomed to the team. The vixen and hyena were presented with brand-new Minutemen jerseys with their name and new number. Vera, who usually wears 10, was issued a different number (1). However, rumor had it that she might negotiate with Liam Orwell, the current owner of the number, for the right to wear it.
"I'm very excited for the season to begin; I hope my career in the FBA is just as successful as it was back home," Vera said with a charming Spanish accent and smile. Her first professional years were spent with the Estrellas de San Juan (San Juan Stars) of the Liga Baloncesto de Puerto Rico, where she won one championship. Last season, she led the PRBL with a whopping 25.1 points per game. Her per game totals of assists (8.5) and blocks (2.4) were also among the league leaders.
Nathaniel had a huge grin on his face during the entire conference. He sported the Minutemen cap he was given at the draft by general manager Sam Gwosdz before the conference.
Nathaniel was known for his shooting touch while playing at the University of Arkansas, averaging 16.2 points per game his senior year. He is also very good at the free throw line, averaging 84% at the stripe. "I'm absolutely stoked, I'm living the dream; I feel like I could go out and play right now," he barked.
After the two draft picks finished their interview, the flash bulbs really started to pop when Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) came out to the table. The coydog was followed by general manager Sam Gwosdz and owner Jack Tarman. The Minutemen had signed Big Country to a seven-year, $95 million deal.
Hicks shook Gwosdz's and Tarman's paws for the cameras and was presented by Sam with a new Minutemen home jersey with his name and number. He showed that to the cameras, then sat down to answer questions.
The coydog reiterated what he had told Furballer Magazine in their recently published issue: he was looking for success and to get noticed. "I said 'show me the money', and Williamsburg certainly did that. Gwosdz told me my starting position is secure and that's great. I think I can definitely get more press helping the Minutemen."
Coach Roosevelt released a statement after the conference praising the signings and that he was looking forward to working with the rookies and the new veteran.
(Check out http://www.furaffinity.net/view/4624351/ )
NEWS: (From
Tobu)
Seems one of the newest rookies for the Idaho Mounties has been keeping a good blog about his first introduction to the FBA.
Jorge Vilata, a promising talent from overseas, is ready to prove he has got what it takes to make the transistion to the FBA and be a contributor on his new team.
Jorge Vilata’s Blog
Monday, 15:00
Arriving in the hotel where I will live until I can find a house. McCall is a charming place. Now I feel bad I sold my snowboard when I left Italy. Oh, well.
Monday, 18:00
Q&A with local media, coach Nekka and Krystal Bunny. Mounties PR guy said I needed to improve my English and he would fine me in ten dollars for each time I start answering with a “well, for sure” from now on.
Monday, 19:30
Meeting with Adidas folks, and other suppliers. I tried on half dozen different basketball sleeves. The supplier said they could give me more confidence on distance shots. In my opinion, they just feel weird, uncomfortable, and look even worse. Thanks, but no thanks, I will play without those, like I’m used to.
Monday, 20:00
Signing cards with Krystal. DOZENS of cards. The guy from the card company said something about a “special FBA rookies deck”, and that, after the second quarter of the first game, Krystal and me will gave him our used jerseys to be shredded and a small piece of the fabric will be glued in these cards. You know, FBA world can be strange at times.
Tuesday, 06:30
Quick breakfast and photo session around beautiful Payette Lake. Hope to find a house around here, it’s a breathtaking view
Tuesday, 08:00
Physical testing. In Brazil and Italy, they give you some time from one test to another. Here, it’s another rhythm. Electrodes in your fur, air mask on your muzzle, and “let’s go”. No use to try and explain that half of your organs are still on a different timezone. It’s let’s go and don’t stop “let’s-going” until they say so.
Tuesday, 10:00
Finally on court. Lots of warming-up and stretches, some ball shooting, passing and other basics.
Tuesday, 11:30
Met photographer of Furballer magazine, seems the guy is almost a celebrity in the business. Shot lots of pictures of the boys and girls in actions. Asked me if I could wear a medical scrub he brought for a photo. I mean, what on Earth?!
Tuesday, 12:30
Brazil, Italy, USA… no matter the place, the food they give to the players have the same (lack of) taste pattern. Pasta lacking spices for carbs and energy, lots of greenies, one or other tomato, pressed chicken. Pheh.
Tuesday, 15:00
First tactical training. The guys changed the starting line/bench vests hundreds of times. Coach Nekka is trying all the variables to get the best balanced team right from the start. I can see lots of teams will suffer. There are plenty of key players yet to decide their contracts, and just two weeks for the start of the season. There will be teams playing the first month without strategy. Since we’re waiting only for Umaechi decision, we can have a tactical advantage on the first month. We’ll see.
Tuesday, 19:30
Playing H.O.R.S.E. with Victor Vos. Nice guy. I lost, but managed to do my old funny routine:
Me: “Next shot, behind the 3rd line”
Victor: “You mean, behind the 3-point line?”
Me: “Of course not. I mean behind the 3rd line of seats of the audience”
I won that particular letter.
Wednesday, 21:30
Hotel, sweet hotel. Today we had a closed day, no press, no fans, just practicing. Practicing hard. I just want a shower and a bed, not necessarily in that order.
Thursday, 7:00
We started today with a light cross-country running. It was re-energizing, to breath that pure mountain air, surrounded by the great landscape around here.
Thursday, 19:30
End-of-day press-conference. Lost 10 bucks to the PR guy. One… journalist was expelled by the security. He was, in fact, a Playbunny rep, trying to arrange a centerfold with Krystal. Did I mention that FBA world can be strange at times?
Friday, 20:00
Found a Package from Penalty shoes waiting for me in the hotel. Boy, they worked fast. It’s a beauty, very similar to regular utah models, but with a dark red and gold sole, to match Mounties’ colors, and a small brazilian flag in the heels. Now I will look good at the court. "
NEWS: (From
MongooseInk)
SANTA ANA (Ca.) -- A series of contract offer rejections was a hard blow to the Spectrums, and the team is currently left in a state of uncertainty. Following the draft, head coach Jackson Price (Fisher) was called into a closed-door meeting at OMEN Technologies, the team’s new owners. Ten hours later Price emerged appearing as grim as he had on entry, and denied comment to reporters.
Alan Foster (Dingo), the team’s new announcer, had also been in on the meeting, where he was given authority to act as spokesperson for media relations. Trying to smile, the dingo said, “Don’t worry, we’ve got a solid team and some great talent, we just need to use it more effectively than Kitfox did, that’s all.” He declined any further questions after that point.
At this point, the new direction of the team has been under heavy speculation, with several names of possible free-agency pick-ups being tossed around, but no one either on the team nor associated with OMEN is saying anything. The only confirmed piece of news spawned from the rumor mill is the addition of Randall Yoster (Border Collie), to the team’s management. Randy-Yo has announced that he will be coming out of retirement after five years of rest to take the position of assistant coach on the Spectrums, at Price’s request. Yoster is best known for his long stint as assistant coach for the Huntsville Mayors, and had presided over Jackson Price back when he was a player, himself. When asked in a phone interview what his thoughts were for the team, Yoster laughed and gave his customary reply, “The team will handle itself, as long as they play together.”
But in terms of playing together, the Spectrums might have more of a challenge than they had bargained for with the addition of Lance Cheval (Stallion, C) and his ego, and the second round draft pick, N’duk Hunter (Mongoose, SG). Cheval’s ego nearly ruined his career on the Thrust, but after a dismal go at acting, My Big Pony has decided to return to his basketball roots, but it is unclear at this time how much effort he will truly put into his game. N’duk Hunter also has some history with the Thrust, having been picked up by Buck Hopper and pulled into their training camp for the summer. However, while the street baler was apparently good enough to go head to head with the Thrust in the off-season, he was described by the trainers as, “Skilled and driven, but one of the scariest players I’ve ever seen. Brutal form, no style, no finesse. It’s like watching 300 out there on the court.” With such a lack of form, the Spectrums may have difficulty shaping their new, backup shooting guard into the style of play they have in mind.
Though, with Lance Cheval’s performance in question, Jackson Price made a smart move on draft night, snatching up Wescot Yobias (Binturong, F/C), whose talents have already made him a standout player, and who could easily step in and shine should Cheval not pan out.
When asked last week about the rest of his team, Price had this to say,
“It’s quite a diverse group of players, but they’ve all got heart and commitment to the team. I don’t want to let them down the way their past management did; I need to pay attention, learn what they need, and help give it to them. I’ve picked Omar Pink (Saluki, F) to succeed Karl Gruber as team captain. Omar and I have had our differences in the past, but after a good talk, I know he’s the right man for this, and here’s no one else I could see taking the helm like he can. He’s got the experience, but more than that, he’s got the passion, and I know it was him who was really keeping the team together over the past few years.
“I was very glad that Milton Dianna (Mink, F) chose to stay with us, despite the team’s last few seasons. I know he wants to succeed, and he believes in the team. I only hope I can do well enough to deserve the loyalty he’s shown. He’s a class act, and we at the Spectrums are very fortunate to have him.
“And Phinneas Jackson (Crocodile, F), man, what a guy. He might appear big and scaly, but he’s really a teddy bear. Always ready with a smile, he’s the life of the team, and he’s got some serious skill to back it up with, too.
“I feel very fortunate to also have Barton Bados on the team, (Ram, G), as his professionalism is so rare in a player, and he’s already taken a shine to our young Stripes Quinn (Tiger, G) who he’s taken under his wing, even without being asked. Bados and Quinn are going to be key for us this season in planning our strategy, and I foresee great things coming from each of them.
“As for Sandy DiTullio (Golden Retreiver, G), I hope I can get her the backup she needs. So far she’s the lone female on the team, and I know that can be hard, but she’s a big girl, and she’s told me that I’d better not get some wimp to be her backup, she’s up for a challenge. So, I plan on getting her just that; a challenge, because I know competition brings out the best in her.”
“Jefferson Adams (Lion, C)… I think it might just be a matter of digging down and seeing what really inspires him. I’ve seen his college tapes, the guy was a master on the court, but sometimes college ball doesn’t always translate well to the pros. It’s not his fault, it’s just a different type of game. I think that if we can really work with him, we can bring out what I know is still hiding in there.”
As the interview was prior to the draft, new players Wescot Yobia and N’duk hunter were missing from his list, as well as new signings Aaron Murray (Ram, F/C) and Crosby Sutters (Genet, F). Aaron Murray brings more experience to the team, which should help with a roster of so many rookies, and Crosby Sutters was chosen as he can play both small and power forward positions equally well, and was captain of his team at Butler. Yobia should bring balance to any uncertainty with Cheval, with Murray there to offer guidance, or step in in a pinch as well, and it seems that Hunter was the choice Price made to give DiTullio the challenge she was looking for.
However, it is rumored that the tight-lippedness about anything after the draft may be just standard operating procedure from OMEN, whose secrecy has often baffled the press, even when they knew they had a hit on their paws. Only time will tell if Jackson Price has inherited a fool’s team, or if he’s about to make fools of us all for doubting him.
NEWS: (From
PaulShep)
Getting out of trouble - Montana free agency
GM Torsten Lynx couldn't believe what he saw when he noticed that he had signed too many players, and after the incident of Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G) complaining in the office, something had to be done.
According to multiple sources, the Alphas were in quite some trouble as well, with roughly only 8 players signed, the team needed some good blood, and the Howlers had that. A source tells us that the Howlers have traded 2 players to the Howlers for a 2011 draft pick, but it needs to be confirmed by the commissioner first.
GM Torsten Lynx had this to say: "The Alphas looked like a freaking AA high school team with that many players signed. And we have too many. We HAD to help each other out." He tells the media. Crossing their fingers, the Howlers hope to keep Shane in their line-up, wanting to ease the pressure on their first round pick Paul Shepherd (German Shepherd, G). "He can't handle the immediate shift from international to FBA style play that quickly. He told us that he'd prefer to be back-up for the first season or so, just to get himself used to North American play."
P-Dog confirmed that notion. "I'm not like that Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) guy. Sure, I'd love to play starter, but I just finished another season back in Germany, so that quick shift is a hard piece of work. Though I hope that I get used to everything quickly."
NEWS: (From
MrInitialMan)
Bryn Mastiffson has announced his full recovery by embarking on a two-album project. The first Album will be entitled "Sing To This Fantastic Life", and will be a concept album dedicated to joy. He states that it seems only proper after having come so close to dying.
The other will be "Far From Dead", and was suggested by the younger members of the Mastiffson Brass, who want to take a shot at hard rock.
When asked about the Rabble Rousers, Bryn Mastiffson reportedly said that the band was no longer in existance, having died with the Rocky Mountain Rabble.
NEWS: (From MrInitialMan)
When asked about not being signed by the thrust, Alex Mastiffson (Dog, F) shocked some reporters by his responce: a shrug (evidently they wanted a guaranteed spot in Furballer by writing about an emotional breakdown). He says his Dad believe Alex was likely too vocal about wanting to play alongside Buck Hopper and ended up hurting his chances.
NEWS: (From
DarrenZeraus)
NEWARK (Nj.) -- With two new drafted players and the Pride having secured their start PG and their 'Mama Bear' PF, introductions were made and soon the newbies Jarrod Frola (Cat, F) and Gordon Reilly (Moose, F/C) were quickly run to drills with the rest of the team. With Val finally back from her cross country trip Pride is back in full force and training for the new season.
Last year the Pride kicked off the season with the Montana Howler's, Howlereen Invitational. This year Pride will be sitting out this invitational match in favor of incorporating their new prospects into their plays. Jarrod was quickly paired off with a noticeably bulkier Theodore Sanftner (Prairie Dog, G) and quickly was surprised by the size of the, then 'Silent Ted'. Theodore was quickly bombarded with compliments about the additional bulk he'd managed to add on during the off season and sent the prairie dog into his own blushing fit again until Head Coach Raymond Page Leddy broke up the pair and quickly put them to work in shooting drills. Theo quickly lighting up the points, dropping threes from all across the arc and putting Jarrod's shots to shame which he was quickly reprimanded for and rather cheerfully put in double effort after being told that he’d be pushed as a shooter for bench small forward, bringing shots to Riccardo Vega’s (Maned Wolf, F) power penetration.
Meanwhile Gordon made it clear that he was there for practice ‘like any player should be’ as he’d stated, and while drills went off without a hitch. When the skirmish mixing bench and starters was put in to see how well the newbies gel’d together it was obvious that trouble would be following the Pride in the second half when Gordon would be depended on to give fresh legs to the Center position, letting Lance Freewell (Clouded Leopard, C) the rest he very rarely gets during a game. The trouble in the game started six minutes in during a brilliant pop from Theodore Snafter showing that his bulk wasn’t just for show, as he drove his new 185 lbs. frame in against Captain Allen Sharp (Hyena, G/F), getting the ball in Valencia Zeraus' (Lioness, G) paws who drove fiercely into ‘enemy’ territory, pulling a spin/fake/reverse against bench SG Lucinda Washington (Himalayan Wolf, G), getting by and into the paint where she quickly stepped and doubled back spinning back towards the basket away from Gordon getting out of the wide screen player’s way and was promptly shoved by the aggressive moose, sending her sprawling dangerously on her side.
Luckily Pride’s star PG was only slightly bruised, but it was obvious she was miffed as she quickly popped back up from the ground and got into the newbie’s face, “You could’ve wrecked my shoulder shoving me like that, newbie. Do that again I’ll make sure you don’t make it outta bed tomorrow.” To which Gordon would only reply, “You were in my space, and when someone’s in my space… I move them, you’re no different, princess.” Val left practice with a sour taste in her mouth for the first time from team practice, quickly after it was over and when pressed by reporters about what happened during practice she simply stated, ‘Just what the FBA needed… an [Julio] Onca (Black Panther, F/C) with antlers.’
NEWS: (From
ZephyrSkunk)
Alex Merced (Lynx, G) was overjoyed at getting drafted. She had hoped for a team in a warm climate, and the Sand Dollars fit that bill. She'd heard good things about JTigerclaw (Tiger, C), too.
NEWS: (From
BaddWill)
William Badd (Black Leopard, G, BDF) had the following statement regarding Wendy Brown's (Saber-Toothed Tiger, G, BDF) earlier comments.
"I had no idea that Wendy was a possible headcase. We can maybe change that on this team, we pride ourselves with being humble and close and we plan on continuing it on the next level especially with this rare opportunity of playing together again. How else would we have won the 2007 FCAA championship with [L. V.] McDyess (Black Panther, G), the Macon brothers [Donell Macon (Siberian Tiger, C) and Desmond Macon (Siberian Tiger, F)] and the rest of the Lower Cal State Stingers squad? I feel that Bradford is getting a great squad this year that's capable of great things, l plan to not disappoint Bradford this year, l hope that she's planning the same."
STORY: (From
Rourkie)
The rabbit watched the screen nervously.
It was bad enough that he couldn't afford to fly out there, but then, his chances weren't great to begin with. The glow from the television left his fur, and the poster of his idol behind him, a ghostly blue. He struggled to stay awake until the end, even as the pick numbers increased one by one, watching because he knew that if he made it, it wouldn't be until the second round. He watched and waited, knowing where his heart belonged, despite the odds against him.
And when the last name was called, he turned the television off and curled up to sleep, knowing what it was like to feel his dream start to slip just a little farther away from him, after it had finally seemed so close.
FREE AGENCY UPDATE (Part 1)
Lance Wildfyre (Rabbit, G) has been signed out of free agency to a league minimum 1 year / $1 million contract with the Albany Alphas. The undersized, overweight lapine was an unlikely candidate when he submitted his name into the 2010 FBA Draft right out of high school, and predictably did not get drafted-- but post-draft interest in the young athlete led to him joining the rest of the FBA in the coming season on Albany's roster.
STORY: (From Rourkie)
Note from Lance Wildfyre:
First of all, thank you for accepting me to your team! I am excited to be joining the longstanding legacy the Alphas have had with the FBA.
I started playing basketball when we moved to Massachusetts in my sophomore year, and was selected for the Junior Varsity team because of my speed. My coach transferred me to the Varsity team halfway through the season when one of our school's point guards hurt his ankle on the court, and a spot on the team opened up. We won 9 of our 12 games during that second half of the season, compared to only 2 out of 11 in the first half. I continued on the Varsity team through the end of high school.
I averaged 26.2 points, 11.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists as a junior; and in my senior year I averaged 30.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 4.6 steals, and 4.3 blocked shots per game. This year I led my team in a 23-1 season, and set a new record for my high school's record for points in a single season. I was named Naismith High School Player of the Year, I earned the 2009–10 Gatorade Player of the Year award for Massachusetts, and was named named a 2010 McDonald's High School All-American.
I am fast and I am small, but this works to my advantage, because I can also jump high. This means that when I steal, I'm lower to the ground, so it's harder to get the ball back, but my natural ability to jump allows me to compete with furs who are much taller than I am. I can push my weight around, as my lower center of gravity makes it harder to knock me back or to stop me when I have momentum going.
I am willing to work harder than anyone on your team has ever worked - and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to be great, and to help make the Alphas better than they've ever been before.
Thank you again for reading through this letter and for writing to me! I'll be happy to send you anything else you need from me before the season starts.
Sincerely,
Lance Wildfyre
TRANSACTIONS UPDATE
TRADE: The Baltimore Spirits have traded aging center Leo Tang (Lion, C) to the Des Moines Blanks for free agency pickup Inga Hertegurd (Reindeer, C) and the Blanks' 2011 2nd round draft pick.
TRADE: The Howlers have resolved their money issues by shipping out Nick Cruz (Caiman, G) and Kelvin Lennon (Cocker Spaniel, F) to the Albany Alphas for their 2011 first round pick. The trade will help the Howlers clear out their over-stocked roster and cap space for signing the highly valued Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G).
TRADE: The Alaska Arctics have come to the rescue for the Huntsville Mayors and their roster trouble. They've sent Ulric Hastings (White Seal, G/F) and Arthur Jackson (Wolf, F) to Alabama for their 2011 2nd round pick.
TRADE: The Idaho Mounties have traded the #29 overall draft pick Ricky Beltran (Rabbit, F) to the Bradford Bantams for the #32 overall draft pick Kortni Whitelatch (Border Collie, F).
TRADE: In one of the biggest trades so far this season, the Idaho Mounties have sent Lola Richard (Cream Rabbit, G), Lenny Graham (Wolf, G) and Thurl Sparhawk (Bobcat, G/F) to the Baltimore Spirits for Inga Hertegurd (Reindeer, C) in her 2nd trade in the same day, Forrest Stanley (Wolf, F/C) and Daniel Lincoln (Antelope, F).
TRADE: The Idaho Mounties are very busy this off-season. They traded Grontalis von Dallius (Wolf-Fox, G) to the Lorain Firestorm for their 2011 2nd Round pick.
TRADE: The Spokane Rapids now want to see some trading action. They sent Wally Wald (Wallaby, G) and Blake Adrian (Zebra, G/F) to the Albany Alphas for Victoria Ling (Panda, F).
FREE AGENCY UPDATE (Part 2)
Hector Sanchez (Kangaroo Rat, G) has been signed to a one-year / $2.5 million contract by the Santa Ana Spectrums. The veteran will begin his 8th season in the FBA playing in SoCal after the Moonshiners chose not to resign the rodent at the end of his 5-year contract. After spending a month in open free agency, Speedy Gonzalez expressed not only thanks for being given another season to play in the league, but also for a chance to return to Southern California, not far from his hometown of El Centro.
Dat Mongoste (Mongoose, G) has decided to take a 3 year / $35 million contract with the Dakota Bikers. Like Dat, who won a ring with the 2008-2009 Huntsville Mayors, was highly sought after in this free agency period, with contracts coming from the Moonshiners, the Rapids and his own Mayors. In the end, his choice came down to the opportunity to win another ring-- which no one can doubt is best with the current world champion Bikers.
Ryota Akanishi (Siberian Tiger, F) has accepted a 5 year / $27 million contract with the Spokane Rapids. Curiously, even though the Spokane contract was valued higher than the 5 year / $24 million offer he got to stay with the Mounties, the contract will pay only $3 million in the first year compared to Idaho's $4.5 million. This seems to indicate that the young tiger is looking long term in his FBA career.
Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G) had many Montana fans worried, but he put those worries to rest when he finally settled on a 6 year / $71 million contract to remain with the Howlers. The big wolf had been cagey in the off-season, most noticeably refusing to commit to any team during an interview with T. Matt Latrans for the furry radio program Beneath the Hide: Stories of the FBA. Reports of him snarling at Howlers management about promised contract money seemed to ensure the big wolf would be putting his foot paws on another court for next season, but a last-ditch effort to clear cap and roster space seemed to do the trick as Fang was convinced to ignore offers from the Alphas and Whips to stay with his club.
Billy Joe James (Mule, F/C) looked close to jumping ship, but in the end, decided to stay with the Baltimore Spirits, accepting a fat 7 year / $83.5 million contract. The big mule had looked like he might join Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) in leaving his club to start up the new Pittsburgh Keystones, but in the end, it seemed he couldn't ignore the money. The Backhoe will likely slide to the center position, which is where he played back in Stanislaus during their stellar 2008-2009 season, with newly acquired Brax Trenor (Grey Hare, F) moving to the PF position.
Eleanor Rigby (Deer, G) might have been tempted earlier by an offer from the Santa Fe Whips, but after that club acquired Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) from the Howlers, the decision was clear-- Rigby has re-signed with the Williamsburg Minutemen on a 7 year / $31.5 million deal. She will likely lose her starting role to the #1 2010 draft pick Vera La Tiérra (Red Vixen, G), but with new team acquisitions Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) and Leonard Mack (Red Fox, C), the club is expected to improve this season. Certainly, after last season's performance, there's nowhere to go but up.
Georgette Hawyer (Fennec Fox, G) has decided to come stateside. She's leaving the Bantams to accept a 5 year / $41 million contract with the Spokane Rapids, where she'll join Alan Chesuk (Moose, C) and potentially superstar John Stoat (Stoat, G) later in the season.
Cedric Sellers (Cougar, C) may have missed getting picked up in the draft, but he was pulled out of free agency by the Idaho Mounties to play in the 2010-2011 season. He will receive a league minimum 1 year / $1 million contract.
steviemaxwell)Hopes for the Future: Inside the 2010 FBA Draft
Oh What A Night - by Patrick Suarez
In a large auditorium at FBA Headquarters, the remains of a lavish buffet are being cleared away, with a couple scavengers picking at some of the more tasty leftovers. An intricate display module is being disassembled and inspected by nervous engineers, hoping to troubleshoot and improve the expensive system for the next broadcast. Security guards are strolling through the area to escort the last few stragglers from the tables, most with looks of exhaustion or disappointment on their faces.
Several hours earlier, this room was brimming with furs full of confidence and of food, all buzzing with excitement and anticipation as FBA Commissioner Sterne Davids welcomed one and all to the 2010 FBA Draft ceremony.
Before the draft started, Avery Wells (Donkey, C) was recognized by the front office for his 20 years in the league as his retirement was officially announced. The trio of Fred Kimteech (Cheetah), Stevie Maxwell (Giant Panda), and Sal Muller (Mole) were also recognized for their 10 years of service as FBA officials. Lastly, a special Annual FBA Contributors Award was announced for a presentation to its recipient at the FurFright convention prior to the Howlereen game that weekend.
The first three picks of the night held no surprises, with Williamsburg and Des Moines and Montana picking the top three rated players of the draft in order. But when Kansas City chose Ezra Rosenbaum (Lioness, G) instead of the higher-rated Wescot Yobia (Binturong, F/C), Santa Ana scooped up the Underwood College graduate with their first pick and chose a street baller with their late second-round pick. When asked about the Spectrums' draft choices and roster issues, head coach and former FBA MVP Jackson Price remarked: "We got exactly who we came out to get.... we've still got our eyes on several players, and we will be approaching them shortly."
The Arctics managed to score a second first-round pick in the top 8 with an off-season trade, choosing Mark Ferramin (Ferret, C) with the #6 pick and Ione Estrada (Chameleon, G/F) with the #8 pick. The Sand Dollars also managed to secure a second first-round pick in the top 16 from an off-season trade, selecting Joshua Koda (White Tiger, C) and Ana Azara (Snow Leopard, G) with the #13 and #16 picks respectively. When the Whips chose Leo Seppala (Wolfdog, G) with their #18 pick and N!xau Xamseb (Lion, F) with their #42 pick, a three-team trade sent Flyswatter down to Galveston and The Artist into Santa Fe while The Arctic Storm was packaged with Adolfa Girau Girau (Otorongo, G/F) and shipped up to Alaska.
After Wendy Brown (Saber-toothed Tiger, G) and Krystal Bunny (Rabbit, G) were chosen by the Bantams and the Mounties, Albany was on the clock for their #10 pick. Unfortunately, the Alphas table was deserted and no one in the front office had any word from team management. Dreysanius Acrutar, owner of the Rocky Mountain Royals, shared this comment on Albany's absence: "I'm rather disappointed. My lovely wife gets to annoy Foo-Foo (owner of the Stanislaus Thrust), but it seems Frump the Grump's hiding from me." Commissioner Davids skipped the Alphas to continue the draft, and the Royals chose Dirk Von Stryker (German Giant Rabbit, C) with their #11 pick, as well as fellow lapine Harry Redford (Hare, C) with their second-round pick. "If there was anything this team needed, it was height, and I believe these picks will add that much-needed asset," remarked Mr. Acrutar. "We need good centers. [Angus] MacColl (Brown Bear, C) may be retiring after this season, and we'd like to have good jumpers if he does."
Last year, the Huntsville Mayors gave up their #2 pick Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) and both of their draft picks for this year to the Montana Howlers for Charles Yotechuk (Coyote, F). However, transactions during this past season got City Hall two picks anyway, and both in the first round. Bailey Brisbane (Catahoula Leopard Hound, G) was the eighth-highest rated player, and Huntsville scooped up the Underwood College graduate with their #12 pick. Later in the evening the Mayors would select Nicky Brown (Cockatoo, F) with their #20 pick.
The Mudpuppies were on the clock for the #14 pick, and tapped Devon Kellendyne (Cacomistle, G) to come to Mississippi. Silas Rand (Squirrel, G), another Underwood College graduate, was also chosen by Biloxi with their second-round pick. Mudpuppies GM Pharaoh Redd seemed very satisfied with his team's choices, even though that puts seven guards in his roster. "Devon will serve as a backup to Barton [Rouge] (Fox, G). We needed a decent backup, as we found the hard way last season. Si serves our purposes because we need a fast shooting guard, and he is, indeed, fast. He got overshadowed at UDub because of Wescot and Jarrod [Frola] (Cat, F) and Bailey, but we all knew he was a good one, so I don't really regret our choices. I suppose down the road, our next goal will have to be a forward.... Someone to study under Redneck Bill."
At #15 were the Rapids with their lone pick of the night. For the beginning of the draft, Spokane GM Nightfire Kitsura was heard talking to his secretary about how things were all going according to plan. A couple of the picks seemed to catch him off-guard, as his secretary was sent to the commissioner with "Plan D", which apparently meant drafting Blanc Mange (White Wolf, F) out of France. "I am quite happy with whom I picked. It wasn't originally my first choice, mind you, but in a sense we got a blessing in disguise. I really was expecting that Blanc would have been taken in the top 10," said Mr. Kitsura. "This year I am looking to build a good team... too long the Rapids relied on one player, [John] Stoat (Stoat, G), until we got [Alan] Chesuk (Moose, C). Now that Stoat is out for a while we are back down to one star. We can't allow ourselves to fall in that same mess."
With the #17 pick of the draft, the Pride skipped higher-rated players to select Jarrod Frola out of Underwood College, while in the second round Newark's #41 pick was Gordon Reilly (Moose, F/C) from Vancouver, BC. While it's often said that you don't draft out of need, Pride GM Darren Zeraus admitted that he did just that. "We did that last year, hopefully we come out as well as we had last time.... Reilly's there to fill a hole we've had in bench for some time, giving Lance [Freewell] (Clouded Leopard, C) a chance to breath. We've been pushing our center hard and needed someone to support him from the bench. Though should Sheila [Andrews] (Grizzy Bear, F/C) not re-sign I suppose he could put a bandaid on that wound."
The Lorain Firestorm chose Serhan Tevetoglu (Turkish Angora Cat, F/C) with their #19 in the first round, and followed it up with Moki Ixtlahuac (Buck Deer, F) with their #43 pick in the second round. The FBA Champion Dakota Bikers selected Fritz Jansen (Paint Horse, G) with their #21 pick and Dan Ira (Armadillo, F/C) with their #45 pick, though the graphic to announce Boulderdash's selection was "hacked" to show Sterne Davids (Weasel, W) of Street Cred, NY as Dakota's second round choice. The Plymouth Taproots drafted Gerrit-Jan Pretorius (Lion, F) and Xander Ori (Raccoon, G) with their #22 and #46 picks, respectively.
The Pittsburgh Keystones, formerly the Springfield Fusion, traded away their early first round draft pick for the second-to-last pick in the top 24. The fourteenth-highest rated player was still available, however, so the league's newest team picked up Gilbert Exen (Anole, G)... who rushed the podium while Commissioner Davids was still up there and proceeded to express his gratitude and excitement at being drafted. Four picks later at #27, Pittsburgh would also draft Doug Day (Golden Retriever, C) who played with The Factor in his last year before going pro. Before making an early exit after his second-round pick, Keystones GM Terry McMasters remarked on his draft choices: "The team did great for its late picks. We have full confidence in Gilbert to take the 'Stones to the next level, and Doug will be a solid center and can fill in at power if need be. We are 100% confident in the roster we have and we're going to make sure the world knows later this month when the season starts."
With the best record of last season and no trades to change their position, the Stanislaus Thrust would have the final selections in both rounds. Pick #24 would be Blythe Nacht (Silver-phase Red Fox, G) of Nebraska while pick #48 would be Susan Kruegar (Raccoon, F/C) out of Massachusetts. Before the second round of picks began, though, Commissioner Davids received word out of the Albany offices. While his expression was fairly neutral, the weasel's tone indicated that the news was not good. Thankfully, their first round choice was still left on the board, as Jack Hinks (Landseer Dog, C) became the "#10" pick of the draft.
Williamsburg's dismal finish last season earned them the first overall pick and the first second round pick of the draft. With Vera La Tierra (Vixen, G) already chosen, Minutemen GM Samuel Gwosdz was looking quite despondent and seemed to be praying each time a forward's name was called. When the second round began with the #25 pick, the Virginia team quickly selected Damien Nathaniel (Hyena, F). "I was starting to freak out.... I had lost all perspective for a while there," Mr. Gwosdz said after the draft. "Fortunately for me and all those who saw me at the table there, I ended up going with the first plan I had devised.
Both the Moonshiners and the Typhoons has one pick from the draft in the second round, the Tennessee team selecting Aragon Fisher (Otter, G) with the #26 pick while the Tallahassee team chose Archi Redd (Tibetan Terrier, C) with the #36 pick. Typhoons GM and head coach Carter Clausen was available for a brief comment regarding his selection: "We felt we needed a little bit more size on the team after making the big trade [for Yotechuk]. Though it was the second round we felt there was a lot of talent still available. Archi is everything we wanted in a pick that was so late in the draft: size, skill, and maybe most important smarts. A guy who could pick things up quickly. He'll be a big help on defense and hopefully keep others from attacking Yotechuk."
With their third pick of the night at #28, the Sand Dollars chose Alex Merced (Lynx, G) out of Los Angeles, CA. Galveston GM Owen Michaels believes he did well with his three picks, and explained his perspective on the draft floor trade: "We had to do a bit of adjusting though, as our best plan before the draft wasn't necessarily the best plan as the draft went on. We liked Koda in workouts, and Tiggie [Jtigerclaw] (Tiger, G) seemed to take a quick liking to him, but we really need a solid guard or forward with defensive skills. Basically... we had a surplus of quality centers. That's why the move was made. I wish I could have them all on the team."
In another draft floor trade, the Mounties shipped off Joey Cox (Roadrunner, G) to the Spirits in exchange for Victor Vos (Red Fox, G) and the #40 pick of the draft. That pick was Jorge Vilata (Cat, G) while Ricky Beltran (Rabbit, F) became their #29 pick. Both of Baltimore's remaining picks were in the second round, with Clyde Moerke (Black Footed Ferret, F) and Brittany Jamestown (Lemur, G/F) being the #37 and #39 picks, respectively.
After Kansas City chose Okeya Dickinson (Cat, G) with their #30 pick, Alaska and Bradford were next. A slightly-inebriated Boris Petrov, owner of the Arctics, chose to do a favor for the British club and submit their draft choice along with his own. However, his circuitous route to the front podium delayed the process, and the assistants to the commissioner impatiently handed Mr. Davids the wrong card. When Kortni Whitelatch (Border Collie, F) was announced as the #31 pick for the Arctics, both Bantams management and the rest of Alaska's contingent stood up in shock and surprise. Rather than go through the trading process, the commissioner simply corrected the error by announcing Olya Gala (Siberian Husky, G) as the correct draft choice of the Arctics, while K-dub became the #32 pick for the Bantams.
Des Moines had the #33 pick and chose Uma Tapia (Stellar Sea Lion, F/C) of Naikoon, BC and formerly of the RCMP. When asked about the acquisitions of his team, Blanks GM O'dell Stapleton had this to say: "[Kenny] Henderson (Raccoon, F) and Tapia will both be beneficial to our roster and we're delighted to have them both! As for Telki Holland (Chinchilla, G), she and Halbert Lamar (Raccoon, G) will battle for the backup point guard role behind Les Moore (Rabbit, G)."
Near the end of the night, Montana had the penultimate draft choice as a result of Huntsville's second-best record last season. The Howlers selected Sam Wilson (Jackal, F) out of Hartford, CT, bringing their roster up to 15 players with a contract extension offer to their veteran point Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G). Montana GM Torsten Lynx felt his picks tonight satisfyingly met expectations. "We got our point guard and filled a forward spot that was up for grabs. We sincerely hope we get Rufus. I mean, he's now the face of our franchise and I can't possibly see him leave.... We signed most of our squad from last year, which we were aiming for, so we'll see what happens."
Indeed. We'll definitely see what happens.
Patrick Suarez is a reporter for FBA News and a correspondent for Furballer magazine.
NEWS: (From
Sam-Gwosdz)WILLIAMSBURG (Va.) - The Minutemen held a large press conference to welcome back their two returning free agents, introduce their two new draft picks and welcome a new face to the Minutemen.
The Minutemen re-signed two veterans who have spent their entire careers with the team. Shooting guard Reggie Mackenzie (Bloodhound, G) was signed to a three-year, $9 million contract, while center Nick Nwabudike (Elephant, C) agreed to a four-year, $36 million deal.
"I'm so happy to be back with the Minutemen," Nwabudike said, a big smile on his face. "It's a real honor to play here and under Coach Roosevelt," he added. His slight accent was rather charming.
Reggie had the same outlook. "I'm glad that the Minnies still have interest in me," he said, which drew a laugh. "It's been a pleaure to play here, and I hope we can get a title in the next few years. I'll do whatever I can to help out."
Next, Vera La Tiérra (Red Vixen, G) and Damien Nathaniel (Hyena, G), the #1 and #25 picks in Sunday's draft, were welcomed to the team. The vixen and hyena were presented with brand-new Minutemen jerseys with their name and new number. Vera, who usually wears 10, was issued a different number (1). However, rumor had it that she might negotiate with Liam Orwell, the current owner of the number, for the right to wear it.
"I'm very excited for the season to begin; I hope my career in the FBA is just as successful as it was back home," Vera said with a charming Spanish accent and smile. Her first professional years were spent with the Estrellas de San Juan (San Juan Stars) of the Liga Baloncesto de Puerto Rico, where she won one championship. Last season, she led the PRBL with a whopping 25.1 points per game. Her per game totals of assists (8.5) and blocks (2.4) were also among the league leaders.
Nathaniel had a huge grin on his face during the entire conference. He sported the Minutemen cap he was given at the draft by general manager Sam Gwosdz before the conference.
Nathaniel was known for his shooting touch while playing at the University of Arkansas, averaging 16.2 points per game his senior year. He is also very good at the free throw line, averaging 84% at the stripe. "I'm absolutely stoked, I'm living the dream; I feel like I could go out and play right now," he barked.
After the two draft picks finished their interview, the flash bulbs really started to pop when Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) came out to the table. The coydog was followed by general manager Sam Gwosdz and owner Jack Tarman. The Minutemen had signed Big Country to a seven-year, $95 million deal.
Hicks shook Gwosdz's and Tarman's paws for the cameras and was presented by Sam with a new Minutemen home jersey with his name and number. He showed that to the cameras, then sat down to answer questions.
The coydog reiterated what he had told Furballer Magazine in their recently published issue: he was looking for success and to get noticed. "I said 'show me the money', and Williamsburg certainly did that. Gwosdz told me my starting position is secure and that's great. I think I can definitely get more press helping the Minutemen."
Coach Roosevelt released a statement after the conference praising the signings and that he was looking forward to working with the rookies and the new veteran.
(Check out http://www.furaffinity.net/view/4624351/ )
NEWS: (From
Tobu)Seems one of the newest rookies for the Idaho Mounties has been keeping a good blog about his first introduction to the FBA.
Jorge Vilata, a promising talent from overseas, is ready to prove he has got what it takes to make the transistion to the FBA and be a contributor on his new team.
Jorge Vilata’s Blog
Monday, 15:00
Arriving in the hotel where I will live until I can find a house. McCall is a charming place. Now I feel bad I sold my snowboard when I left Italy. Oh, well.
Monday, 18:00
Q&A with local media, coach Nekka and Krystal Bunny. Mounties PR guy said I needed to improve my English and he would fine me in ten dollars for each time I start answering with a “well, for sure” from now on.
Monday, 19:30
Meeting with Adidas folks, and other suppliers. I tried on half dozen different basketball sleeves. The supplier said they could give me more confidence on distance shots. In my opinion, they just feel weird, uncomfortable, and look even worse. Thanks, but no thanks, I will play without those, like I’m used to.
Monday, 20:00
Signing cards with Krystal. DOZENS of cards. The guy from the card company said something about a “special FBA rookies deck”, and that, after the second quarter of the first game, Krystal and me will gave him our used jerseys to be shredded and a small piece of the fabric will be glued in these cards. You know, FBA world can be strange at times.
Tuesday, 06:30
Quick breakfast and photo session around beautiful Payette Lake. Hope to find a house around here, it’s a breathtaking view
Tuesday, 08:00
Physical testing. In Brazil and Italy, they give you some time from one test to another. Here, it’s another rhythm. Electrodes in your fur, air mask on your muzzle, and “let’s go”. No use to try and explain that half of your organs are still on a different timezone. It’s let’s go and don’t stop “let’s-going” until they say so.
Tuesday, 10:00
Finally on court. Lots of warming-up and stretches, some ball shooting, passing and other basics.
Tuesday, 11:30
Met photographer of Furballer magazine, seems the guy is almost a celebrity in the business. Shot lots of pictures of the boys and girls in actions. Asked me if I could wear a medical scrub he brought for a photo. I mean, what on Earth?!
Tuesday, 12:30
Brazil, Italy, USA… no matter the place, the food they give to the players have the same (lack of) taste pattern. Pasta lacking spices for carbs and energy, lots of greenies, one or other tomato, pressed chicken. Pheh.
Tuesday, 15:00
First tactical training. The guys changed the starting line/bench vests hundreds of times. Coach Nekka is trying all the variables to get the best balanced team right from the start. I can see lots of teams will suffer. There are plenty of key players yet to decide their contracts, and just two weeks for the start of the season. There will be teams playing the first month without strategy. Since we’re waiting only for Umaechi decision, we can have a tactical advantage on the first month. We’ll see.
Tuesday, 19:30
Playing H.O.R.S.E. with Victor Vos. Nice guy. I lost, but managed to do my old funny routine:
Me: “Next shot, behind the 3rd line”
Victor: “You mean, behind the 3-point line?”
Me: “Of course not. I mean behind the 3rd line of seats of the audience”
I won that particular letter.
Wednesday, 21:30
Hotel, sweet hotel. Today we had a closed day, no press, no fans, just practicing. Practicing hard. I just want a shower and a bed, not necessarily in that order.
Thursday, 7:00
We started today with a light cross-country running. It was re-energizing, to breath that pure mountain air, surrounded by the great landscape around here.
Thursday, 19:30
End-of-day press-conference. Lost 10 bucks to the PR guy. One… journalist was expelled by the security. He was, in fact, a Playbunny rep, trying to arrange a centerfold with Krystal. Did I mention that FBA world can be strange at times?
Friday, 20:00
Found a Package from Penalty shoes waiting for me in the hotel. Boy, they worked fast. It’s a beauty, very similar to regular utah models, but with a dark red and gold sole, to match Mounties’ colors, and a small brazilian flag in the heels. Now I will look good at the court. "
NEWS: (From
MongooseInk)SANTA ANA (Ca.) -- A series of contract offer rejections was a hard blow to the Spectrums, and the team is currently left in a state of uncertainty. Following the draft, head coach Jackson Price (Fisher) was called into a closed-door meeting at OMEN Technologies, the team’s new owners. Ten hours later Price emerged appearing as grim as he had on entry, and denied comment to reporters.
Alan Foster (Dingo), the team’s new announcer, had also been in on the meeting, where he was given authority to act as spokesperson for media relations. Trying to smile, the dingo said, “Don’t worry, we’ve got a solid team and some great talent, we just need to use it more effectively than Kitfox did, that’s all.” He declined any further questions after that point.
At this point, the new direction of the team has been under heavy speculation, with several names of possible free-agency pick-ups being tossed around, but no one either on the team nor associated with OMEN is saying anything. The only confirmed piece of news spawned from the rumor mill is the addition of Randall Yoster (Border Collie), to the team’s management. Randy-Yo has announced that he will be coming out of retirement after five years of rest to take the position of assistant coach on the Spectrums, at Price’s request. Yoster is best known for his long stint as assistant coach for the Huntsville Mayors, and had presided over Jackson Price back when he was a player, himself. When asked in a phone interview what his thoughts were for the team, Yoster laughed and gave his customary reply, “The team will handle itself, as long as they play together.”
But in terms of playing together, the Spectrums might have more of a challenge than they had bargained for with the addition of Lance Cheval (Stallion, C) and his ego, and the second round draft pick, N’duk Hunter (Mongoose, SG). Cheval’s ego nearly ruined his career on the Thrust, but after a dismal go at acting, My Big Pony has decided to return to his basketball roots, but it is unclear at this time how much effort he will truly put into his game. N’duk Hunter also has some history with the Thrust, having been picked up by Buck Hopper and pulled into their training camp for the summer. However, while the street baler was apparently good enough to go head to head with the Thrust in the off-season, he was described by the trainers as, “Skilled and driven, but one of the scariest players I’ve ever seen. Brutal form, no style, no finesse. It’s like watching 300 out there on the court.” With such a lack of form, the Spectrums may have difficulty shaping their new, backup shooting guard into the style of play they have in mind.
Though, with Lance Cheval’s performance in question, Jackson Price made a smart move on draft night, snatching up Wescot Yobias (Binturong, F/C), whose talents have already made him a standout player, and who could easily step in and shine should Cheval not pan out.
When asked last week about the rest of his team, Price had this to say,
“It’s quite a diverse group of players, but they’ve all got heart and commitment to the team. I don’t want to let them down the way their past management did; I need to pay attention, learn what they need, and help give it to them. I’ve picked Omar Pink (Saluki, F) to succeed Karl Gruber as team captain. Omar and I have had our differences in the past, but after a good talk, I know he’s the right man for this, and here’s no one else I could see taking the helm like he can. He’s got the experience, but more than that, he’s got the passion, and I know it was him who was really keeping the team together over the past few years.
“I was very glad that Milton Dianna (Mink, F) chose to stay with us, despite the team’s last few seasons. I know he wants to succeed, and he believes in the team. I only hope I can do well enough to deserve the loyalty he’s shown. He’s a class act, and we at the Spectrums are very fortunate to have him.
“And Phinneas Jackson (Crocodile, F), man, what a guy. He might appear big and scaly, but he’s really a teddy bear. Always ready with a smile, he’s the life of the team, and he’s got some serious skill to back it up with, too.
“I feel very fortunate to also have Barton Bados on the team, (Ram, G), as his professionalism is so rare in a player, and he’s already taken a shine to our young Stripes Quinn (Tiger, G) who he’s taken under his wing, even without being asked. Bados and Quinn are going to be key for us this season in planning our strategy, and I foresee great things coming from each of them.
“As for Sandy DiTullio (Golden Retreiver, G), I hope I can get her the backup she needs. So far she’s the lone female on the team, and I know that can be hard, but she’s a big girl, and she’s told me that I’d better not get some wimp to be her backup, she’s up for a challenge. So, I plan on getting her just that; a challenge, because I know competition brings out the best in her.”
“Jefferson Adams (Lion, C)… I think it might just be a matter of digging down and seeing what really inspires him. I’ve seen his college tapes, the guy was a master on the court, but sometimes college ball doesn’t always translate well to the pros. It’s not his fault, it’s just a different type of game. I think that if we can really work with him, we can bring out what I know is still hiding in there.”
As the interview was prior to the draft, new players Wescot Yobia and N’duk hunter were missing from his list, as well as new signings Aaron Murray (Ram, F/C) and Crosby Sutters (Genet, F). Aaron Murray brings more experience to the team, which should help with a roster of so many rookies, and Crosby Sutters was chosen as he can play both small and power forward positions equally well, and was captain of his team at Butler. Yobia should bring balance to any uncertainty with Cheval, with Murray there to offer guidance, or step in in a pinch as well, and it seems that Hunter was the choice Price made to give DiTullio the challenge she was looking for.
However, it is rumored that the tight-lippedness about anything after the draft may be just standard operating procedure from OMEN, whose secrecy has often baffled the press, even when they knew they had a hit on their paws. Only time will tell if Jackson Price has inherited a fool’s team, or if he’s about to make fools of us all for doubting him.
NEWS: (From
PaulShep)Getting out of trouble - Montana free agency
GM Torsten Lynx couldn't believe what he saw when he noticed that he had signed too many players, and after the incident of Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G) complaining in the office, something had to be done.
According to multiple sources, the Alphas were in quite some trouble as well, with roughly only 8 players signed, the team needed some good blood, and the Howlers had that. A source tells us that the Howlers have traded 2 players to the Howlers for a 2011 draft pick, but it needs to be confirmed by the commissioner first.
GM Torsten Lynx had this to say: "The Alphas looked like a freaking AA high school team with that many players signed. And we have too many. We HAD to help each other out." He tells the media. Crossing their fingers, the Howlers hope to keep Shane in their line-up, wanting to ease the pressure on their first round pick Paul Shepherd (German Shepherd, G). "He can't handle the immediate shift from international to FBA style play that quickly. He told us that he'd prefer to be back-up for the first season or so, just to get himself used to North American play."
P-Dog confirmed that notion. "I'm not like that Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) guy. Sure, I'd love to play starter, but I just finished another season back in Germany, so that quick shift is a hard piece of work. Though I hope that I get used to everything quickly."
NEWS: (From
MrInitialMan)Bryn Mastiffson has announced his full recovery by embarking on a two-album project. The first Album will be entitled "Sing To This Fantastic Life", and will be a concept album dedicated to joy. He states that it seems only proper after having come so close to dying.
The other will be "Far From Dead", and was suggested by the younger members of the Mastiffson Brass, who want to take a shot at hard rock.
When asked about the Rabble Rousers, Bryn Mastiffson reportedly said that the band was no longer in existance, having died with the Rocky Mountain Rabble.
NEWS: (From
MrInitialMan)When asked about not being signed by the thrust, Alex Mastiffson (Dog, F) shocked some reporters by his responce: a shrug (evidently they wanted a guaranteed spot in Furballer by writing about an emotional breakdown). He says his Dad believe Alex was likely too vocal about wanting to play alongside Buck Hopper and ended up hurting his chances.
NEWS: (From
DarrenZeraus)NEWARK (Nj.) -- With two new drafted players and the Pride having secured their start PG and their 'Mama Bear' PF, introductions were made and soon the newbies Jarrod Frola (Cat, F) and Gordon Reilly (Moose, F/C) were quickly run to drills with the rest of the team. With Val finally back from her cross country trip Pride is back in full force and training for the new season.
Last year the Pride kicked off the season with the Montana Howler's, Howlereen Invitational. This year Pride will be sitting out this invitational match in favor of incorporating their new prospects into their plays. Jarrod was quickly paired off with a noticeably bulkier Theodore Sanftner (Prairie Dog, G) and quickly was surprised by the size of the, then 'Silent Ted'. Theodore was quickly bombarded with compliments about the additional bulk he'd managed to add on during the off season and sent the prairie dog into his own blushing fit again until Head Coach Raymond Page Leddy broke up the pair and quickly put them to work in shooting drills. Theo quickly lighting up the points, dropping threes from all across the arc and putting Jarrod's shots to shame which he was quickly reprimanded for and rather cheerfully put in double effort after being told that he’d be pushed as a shooter for bench small forward, bringing shots to Riccardo Vega’s (Maned Wolf, F) power penetration.
Meanwhile Gordon made it clear that he was there for practice ‘like any player should be’ as he’d stated, and while drills went off without a hitch. When the skirmish mixing bench and starters was put in to see how well the newbies gel’d together it was obvious that trouble would be following the Pride in the second half when Gordon would be depended on to give fresh legs to the Center position, letting Lance Freewell (Clouded Leopard, C) the rest he very rarely gets during a game. The trouble in the game started six minutes in during a brilliant pop from Theodore Snafter showing that his bulk wasn’t just for show, as he drove his new 185 lbs. frame in against Captain Allen Sharp (Hyena, G/F), getting the ball in Valencia Zeraus' (Lioness, G) paws who drove fiercely into ‘enemy’ territory, pulling a spin/fake/reverse against bench SG Lucinda Washington (Himalayan Wolf, G), getting by and into the paint where she quickly stepped and doubled back spinning back towards the basket away from Gordon getting out of the wide screen player’s way and was promptly shoved by the aggressive moose, sending her sprawling dangerously on her side.
Luckily Pride’s star PG was only slightly bruised, but it was obvious she was miffed as she quickly popped back up from the ground and got into the newbie’s face, “You could’ve wrecked my shoulder shoving me like that, newbie. Do that again I’ll make sure you don’t make it outta bed tomorrow.” To which Gordon would only reply, “You were in my space, and when someone’s in my space… I move them, you’re no different, princess.” Val left practice with a sour taste in her mouth for the first time from team practice, quickly after it was over and when pressed by reporters about what happened during practice she simply stated, ‘Just what the FBA needed… an [Julio] Onca (Black Panther, F/C) with antlers.’
NEWS: (From
ZephyrSkunk)Alex Merced (Lynx, G) was overjoyed at getting drafted. She had hoped for a team in a warm climate, and the Sand Dollars fit that bill. She'd heard good things about JTigerclaw (Tiger, C), too.
NEWS: (From
BaddWill)William Badd (Black Leopard, G, BDF) had the following statement regarding Wendy Brown's (Saber-Toothed Tiger, G, BDF) earlier comments.
"I had no idea that Wendy was a possible headcase. We can maybe change that on this team, we pride ourselves with being humble and close and we plan on continuing it on the next level especially with this rare opportunity of playing together again. How else would we have won the 2007 FCAA championship with [L. V.] McDyess (Black Panther, G), the Macon brothers [Donell Macon (Siberian Tiger, C) and Desmond Macon (Siberian Tiger, F)] and the rest of the Lower Cal State Stingers squad? I feel that Bradford is getting a great squad this year that's capable of great things, l plan to not disappoint Bradford this year, l hope that she's planning the same."
STORY: (From
Rourkie)The rabbit watched the screen nervously.
It was bad enough that he couldn't afford to fly out there, but then, his chances weren't great to begin with. The glow from the television left his fur, and the poster of his idol behind him, a ghostly blue. He struggled to stay awake until the end, even as the pick numbers increased one by one, watching because he knew that if he made it, it wouldn't be until the second round. He watched and waited, knowing where his heart belonged, despite the odds against him.
And when the last name was called, he turned the television off and curled up to sleep, knowing what it was like to feel his dream start to slip just a little farther away from him, after it had finally seemed so close.
FREE AGENCY UPDATE (Part 1)
Lance Wildfyre (Rabbit, G) has been signed out of free agency to a league minimum 1 year / $1 million contract with the Albany Alphas. The undersized, overweight lapine was an unlikely candidate when he submitted his name into the 2010 FBA Draft right out of high school, and predictably did not get drafted-- but post-draft interest in the young athlete led to him joining the rest of the FBA in the coming season on Albany's roster.
STORY: (From
Rourkie)Note from Lance Wildfyre:
First of all, thank you for accepting me to your team! I am excited to be joining the longstanding legacy the Alphas have had with the FBA.
I started playing basketball when we moved to Massachusetts in my sophomore year, and was selected for the Junior Varsity team because of my speed. My coach transferred me to the Varsity team halfway through the season when one of our school's point guards hurt his ankle on the court, and a spot on the team opened up. We won 9 of our 12 games during that second half of the season, compared to only 2 out of 11 in the first half. I continued on the Varsity team through the end of high school.
I averaged 26.2 points, 11.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists as a junior; and in my senior year I averaged 30.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 4.6 steals, and 4.3 blocked shots per game. This year I led my team in a 23-1 season, and set a new record for my high school's record for points in a single season. I was named Naismith High School Player of the Year, I earned the 2009–10 Gatorade Player of the Year award for Massachusetts, and was named named a 2010 McDonald's High School All-American.
I am fast and I am small, but this works to my advantage, because I can also jump high. This means that when I steal, I'm lower to the ground, so it's harder to get the ball back, but my natural ability to jump allows me to compete with furs who are much taller than I am. I can push my weight around, as my lower center of gravity makes it harder to knock me back or to stop me when I have momentum going.
I am willing to work harder than anyone on your team has ever worked - and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to be great, and to help make the Alphas better than they've ever been before.
Thank you again for reading through this letter and for writing to me! I'll be happy to send you anything else you need from me before the season starts.
Sincerely,
Lance Wildfyre
TRANSACTIONS UPDATE
TRADE: The Baltimore Spirits have traded aging center Leo Tang (Lion, C) to the Des Moines Blanks for free agency pickup Inga Hertegurd (Reindeer, C) and the Blanks' 2011 2nd round draft pick.
TRADE: The Howlers have resolved their money issues by shipping out Nick Cruz (Caiman, G) and Kelvin Lennon (Cocker Spaniel, F) to the Albany Alphas for their 2011 first round pick. The trade will help the Howlers clear out their over-stocked roster and cap space for signing the highly valued Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G).
TRADE: The Alaska Arctics have come to the rescue for the Huntsville Mayors and their roster trouble. They've sent Ulric Hastings (White Seal, G/F) and Arthur Jackson (Wolf, F) to Alabama for their 2011 2nd round pick.
TRADE: The Idaho Mounties have traded the #29 overall draft pick Ricky Beltran (Rabbit, F) to the Bradford Bantams for the #32 overall draft pick Kortni Whitelatch (Border Collie, F).
TRADE: In one of the biggest trades so far this season, the Idaho Mounties have sent Lola Richard (Cream Rabbit, G), Lenny Graham (Wolf, G) and Thurl Sparhawk (Bobcat, G/F) to the Baltimore Spirits for Inga Hertegurd (Reindeer, C) in her 2nd trade in the same day, Forrest Stanley (Wolf, F/C) and Daniel Lincoln (Antelope, F).
TRADE: The Idaho Mounties are very busy this off-season. They traded Grontalis von Dallius (Wolf-Fox, G) to the Lorain Firestorm for their 2011 2nd Round pick.
TRADE: The Spokane Rapids now want to see some trading action. They sent Wally Wald (Wallaby, G) and Blake Adrian (Zebra, G/F) to the Albany Alphas for Victoria Ling (Panda, F).
FREE AGENCY UPDATE (Part 2)
Hector Sanchez (Kangaroo Rat, G) has been signed to a one-year / $2.5 million contract by the Santa Ana Spectrums. The veteran will begin his 8th season in the FBA playing in SoCal after the Moonshiners chose not to resign the rodent at the end of his 5-year contract. After spending a month in open free agency, Speedy Gonzalez expressed not only thanks for being given another season to play in the league, but also for a chance to return to Southern California, not far from his hometown of El Centro.
Dat Mongoste (Mongoose, G) has decided to take a 3 year / $35 million contract with the Dakota Bikers. Like Dat, who won a ring with the 2008-2009 Huntsville Mayors, was highly sought after in this free agency period, with contracts coming from the Moonshiners, the Rapids and his own Mayors. In the end, his choice came down to the opportunity to win another ring-- which no one can doubt is best with the current world champion Bikers.
Ryota Akanishi (Siberian Tiger, F) has accepted a 5 year / $27 million contract with the Spokane Rapids. Curiously, even though the Spokane contract was valued higher than the 5 year / $24 million offer he got to stay with the Mounties, the contract will pay only $3 million in the first year compared to Idaho's $4.5 million. This seems to indicate that the young tiger is looking long term in his FBA career.
Shane Rufus (Red Wolf, G) had many Montana fans worried, but he put those worries to rest when he finally settled on a 6 year / $71 million contract to remain with the Howlers. The big wolf had been cagey in the off-season, most noticeably refusing to commit to any team during an interview with T. Matt Latrans for the furry radio program Beneath the Hide: Stories of the FBA. Reports of him snarling at Howlers management about promised contract money seemed to ensure the big wolf would be putting his foot paws on another court for next season, but a last-ditch effort to clear cap and roster space seemed to do the trick as Fang was convinced to ignore offers from the Alphas and Whips to stay with his club.
Billy Joe James (Mule, F/C) looked close to jumping ship, but in the end, decided to stay with the Baltimore Spirits, accepting a fat 7 year / $83.5 million contract. The big mule had looked like he might join Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) in leaving his club to start up the new Pittsburgh Keystones, but in the end, it seemed he couldn't ignore the money. The Backhoe will likely slide to the center position, which is where he played back in Stanislaus during their stellar 2008-2009 season, with newly acquired Brax Trenor (Grey Hare, F) moving to the PF position.
Eleanor Rigby (Deer, G) might have been tempted earlier by an offer from the Santa Fe Whips, but after that club acquired Jeff Random (Pit Bull, G) from the Howlers, the decision was clear-- Rigby has re-signed with the Williamsburg Minutemen on a 7 year / $31.5 million deal. She will likely lose her starting role to the #1 2010 draft pick Vera La Tiérra (Red Vixen, G), but with new team acquisitions Lenny Hicks (Coydog, F) and Leonard Mack (Red Fox, C), the club is expected to improve this season. Certainly, after last season's performance, there's nowhere to go but up.
Georgette Hawyer (Fennec Fox, G) has decided to come stateside. She's leaving the Bantams to accept a 5 year / $41 million contract with the Spokane Rapids, where she'll join Alan Chesuk (Moose, C) and potentially superstar John Stoat (Stoat, G) later in the season.
Cedric Sellers (Cougar, C) may have missed getting picked up in the draft, but he was pulled out of free agency by the Idaho Mounties to play in the 2010-2011 season. He will receive a league minimum 1 year / $1 million contract.
Excellent reporting by
I was adjusting all the lineups to look about how they may look before the season starts. I think the player guide should be open to the public in the couple of weeks before the season starts so that final adjustments can be made to the lineups. And jersey numbers established (a little obsessive compulsive thing of mine, hehe).
Also, Typhoons need one more player to make 12, I believe. Everyone else falls between 12-14. The teams that were failing that took care of it today I think.
Exciting additions! Good players changing zipcodes, that's something I like to hear about! Dat Mongoste is going to make a very strong Bikers squad even stronger and more despised! They're going to be quite a team to tangle with this year. Even their draft picks are perfect for the team!
Georgette Hawyer will hopefully be just what the Rapids need. She's a steady pass-first point guard with a nice shooter's touch. She should compliment John Stoat very well when he comes back. Then they might be a scary team. Right now, what's scary is that other than Stoat, Chesuk and Lobochevski, every single player is new! The Rapids already underwent a full transformation last year!
Now there are only... 2 Free Agents left to sign! Rodger Umaechi and Doral! I can't wait to hear where they go! :D
The Mayors and Moonshiners were both at $69mil with 12 players signed, while the Bikers were at $61mil with 13 players signed. Since Huntsville is the only team that can use their hard cap to sign Mongoste, wouldn't both Dakota's and Tennessee's offers of $10mil in the first year put them over the soft cap limit? Not that I don't want to see the Goose with the world champs, but to reunite him with the Frost Giant in Spokane because they're the only remaining team with roster and salary space would make for a very interesting season.
I'm not surprised to see nine teams are dangerously close to the soft cap and still have roster slots to fill, but I'm rather shocked that Tallahassee still only has 11 players on their roster. As for Stanislaus: they've survived with 12 players before, they can do it again, though hopefully Doral does sign with them. And Dasher needs to make up his mind quick -- two weeks in training camp is quite the crunch!
Did Inga Hertegurd inherit Joey Cox's moving truck during the draft or something? Or maybe she's just going to get his locker in Idaho. Well, hopefully nobody this season will forget which future draft picks they've traded away to which teams.
Say for instance, I'm the fictional team the Roswell Aliens, and I want to sign fictional player Kirk Picard to my team. I'm at $68 million so far, and his contract will push me to $75. If he is the last player I plan to sign, that's okay, and I'll sign him, pushing me over my soft cap limit, but not beyond the hard cap space. So, now that I've spent $75 million, I can no longer sign any new players.
Do I have that right? That make sense, everyone?
If one cannot sign a free agent from another team if it puts them over the soft cap of 70 mil, then I guess one $1mil player wouldn't be that hard to ship somewhere to bring it down to 70mil again. Maybe sending Mbadinuju or Ira to the Spectrums would make up for them being shunned by the Bikers' free agents a while ago. ;)
:3
And thank you again for the quick interview on draft night!
I mean, if she has, she could consider it a vacation on the company's dime, but still...
And hooray, Eleanor's staying! ^_____^ My scheme is almost to complete fruition!
Things seem to be lookin' up for ya.
Also, great journal! Looooots of info! ^^
Q: So, how are you feeling right now?
A: I can't *remember* parts of last night. I mean, I remember bein' picked, 'cause Big Sue gave me a baller hug that lifted me up off the ground. It was a blast. I haven't been f***ed up like that in a long time. I'm good now, though.
Q: How does it feel to be drafted by the Taproots, your local New England squad?
A: Oh, man, I feel like...This is what I've been working for all this time. I've been ballin' since I was a kit. Sometimes it was all I thought about. I mean, when I learned how to sew, I *made* these like boxers that had basketballs on 'em! So...When I first became aware of the Taproots, it's like, they're *local* to me. It's like they're your tribe, yanno? You wanna be just like them. I *wore out* a Taproots shirt when I was about fifteen or sixteen. So now to be drafted by them, it's like, it's *somethin'*. It's *more* than somethin'!
Q: Are you looking forward to playing with a few other Underwood grads on your team, like Sly, Teeson and Twaddle?
A: Heh. Well, I *know* Marko an' San. I grew up with 'em. "Ow, my foot!" Name droppin'. (chuckles) Anyway, I was like a little younger than they were, but we were part of...OK, there were two big groups where I was. The ballers and the surf rats. I was all about surfing and playin' basketball. An' so were they. So I played streetball with those guys all the time. We even formed teams! An' when I wasn't doin' that, I was surfin' with 'em.
Q: So do they seem like celebrities to you?
A: Yes an' no. Yes, 'cause they went on to Underwood, an' then to the FBA, they were huge. An' it's like "I *knew* those guys! I have a 'Roots Sanford shirt! But on the other hand, no. 'Cause it's not like I'm on the wrong side of the velvet rope, yanno? I mean, I'm starstruck 'cause of the life they get to *live*. They took me to f***in' Ibiza coupla months ago, for cryin' out loud! Them an' *Hal*, who I also knew - he's in the Blanks now - an' Wanda, who's San's mate now, an' they just like *whisk* me away to like *London*, then f***kin' *Barcelona*, an' then *Ibiza*, an' they're just takin' me to the most *ridiculous* clubs, an' these beaches that are just *off* the *charts*! An' they're treatin' me to all this cool s***. Yanno, *me*. Xan. Forest critter, yanno? I'd never been outta the *state*! My world was *this big*. (makes a space between his forefinger and thumb about an inch apart).
So, yeah, that aspect of it's kind of a trip to me. But still, they're like the same guys I knew, right? I mean, I remember the lean-to Marko lived in. San's den was like the equivalent of half a block away. Though to me, li'l' Xan, I thought they lived like kings even than. (chuckles again).
Q: What do you expect for your rookie season?
A: Oh, man, I got no idea. (laughs) I mean, anything could happen, right? All I know is I've been handed this opportunity - this thing I've been dreamin' about for so long. An' I wanna make somethin' of it. I know I'm gonna be studyin' under some real hot dogs, an' I'mma keep my ears open. 'Cause I'm still a wee 21. I gotta remind myself "You're just gettin' started. No slackin' off now, got it?" School's in now.
Q: How do you feel about the Taproots chances of winning the championship?
A: Oh, when they went to the Finals last year, I was *so* psyched! It's like...I know we're back to square one 'cause it's a new season, so we got our work cut out for us. But The Committee's still there, an' that guy Gerrit they brought in - he's a cool dude - I *know* he's gonna do well. An' that's in *addition* to Hassan, who came in last year. So it's like, we're pretty stacked. On one hand, it's like "We'll see how it goes". But on the other hand, it's like "We're ready for ya!" I go back an' forth like that. (chuckles)
Q: What's the thing you're looking forward to the most?
A: Bein' part of the 'Roots, an' even better, bein' on the same team as San an' Marko an' Wiley.
Q: So how do you feel about the prospect of being on the same team as them?
A: Well, Wiley's my homie. He's my dawg. He's from a similar background as me. Except he's from Iowa an' he grew his own vegetables an' s*** like that. But we're both baller nerds of the highest order. At UDub, we'd just hang out an' rant for hours about that s***. We got turned on to video games at the same time, so when we got a taste of the FBA shit - what is it, the 2K? An' the one before that? It was all over. I mean, we both sucked at it 'cause we were both noobs at it, so we'd stay up til stupid-o-clock obsessing over gettin' good at the thing. An' sometimes we'd go to the court at like six AM - 'cause we were still pretty raw, we never played high school ball, yanno - an' Pops would already be there an' he'd let us in an' we'd just hone our skills, yanno? So it's like beyond cool that I get to play with him again!
An' as for San an' Marko? (shakes head, amazed) They'd just graduated when I went to UDub, so I missed them. But they stayed in touch with me the whole time. So now,...it's just like a *trip*, man. (trails off)
Q: It seems like you've had quite a journey going from "there" to "here".
A: (thinks) Yeah, but we all have, in a way. I've got my journey, Si's had his, Widescreen's got his. I'm sure you've heard Pops's story by now. All of us. So yeah, I do feel that way. We all do. An' in a way, I've arrived. But in another way, it's still goin' on. An' I hope it continues to be as cool as it has.
Going to to have a some more stories soon.
It'd take me all day to finish comment on each one, so all I can say is: "That's a lot of news!" XD
Well, more like "Good luck to all the draftees for the coming season!".