tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90701162475068618382024-02-22T06:54:17.680-05:00Blog Talk BayHawkBlog Talk BayHawk is an unofficial Erie BayHawks blog covering the NBA D-League. It features opinions and information about the NBADL and the Erie BayHawks. Blog Talk BayHawk is written from a basketball fan’s perspective to fill In the gaps left by professional journalists’ coverage of BayHawks basketball and the Erie professional basketball scene.Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12186778891943365572noreply@blogger.comBlogger259125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-84859317825313916652010-06-21T15:26:00.004-04:002010-06-21T15:37:17.169-04:00Talking D-League With Blog Talk BayHawkCheck out the <a href="http://www.projectspurs.com/podcasts/episodes/spurscast-210-talking-austin-toros.html">Project Spurs podcast</a> today, featuring yours truly! You may recall I spoke with the guys at Project Spurs months ago when Cedric Jackson was called up to San Antonio. Well, they called me back again last week to talk Austin Toros and D-League matters as they pertain to the Spurs. Much thanks to Jeff Garcia and Michael De Leon for inviting me on for the interview.<br /><br />Things have been quiet around here lately, and it will stay that way for most of the D-League's offseason, but I'll be back with more regular posts as we draw nearer to the season. I may also write an occasional post regarding NBA Summer League action, particularly if there is noteworthy information about Erie BayHawks players.<br /><br />In the meantime, you can catch me every Thursday at D-League Digest, where I am maintaining my presence with a weekly posting to supplement the great work Steve Weinman does there on a regular basis. Check out my recent articles with the links below:<br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/06/17/will-game-7-be-jordan-farmars-last-as-a-laker"><span class="status-body"><span class="entry-content">Will Game 7 Be Jordan Farmar’s Last as a Laker?</span></span></a></li><li><a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/06/10/forget-mike-d-leaguers-should-dream-to-be-like-luke"><span class="status-body"><span class="entry-content">Forget Mike, D-Leaguers Should Dream to Be Like Luke</span></span></a></li><li><a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/06/03/oliver-lafayette-nba-champion"><span class="status-body"><span class="entry-content">Oliver Lafayette: NBA Champion?</span></span></a></li><li><span class="status-body"> <span class="actions"><div><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" id="status_star_14832468225" class="fav-action fav" title="un-favorite this tweet"></a></div></span><a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/05/27/drafting-latavious-williams"><span class="entry-content">Drafting Latavious Williams</span></a></span></li><li><a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/05/20/the-nba-where-shanwow-happens"><span class="status-body"><span class="entry-content">The NBA: Where ShanWOW Happens</span></span></a></li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-89582824796722771922010-06-03T13:23:00.000-04:002010-06-03T13:24:18.463-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Michael SweetneyThe addition of Michael Sweetney gave the BayHawks in mid-March provided an interesting stretch run of games. Teamed with the 300-pound John Bryant, Sweetney—listed at a very generous 260—gave Erie another low-post scoring option.<br /><br />The former NBA lottery pick showed he still has a formidable offensive skill set, including deft footwork in the post and a feathery touch on his 15-18 foot jumper. In 9 games with the BayHawks, Sweetney averaged 13.2 points and 6.9 rebounds in 25.4 minutes per game while shooting a team-best 63.6 percent over that stretch.<br /><br />He scored in double figures in 7 of his 9 appearances and made it clear that he knows how to handle himself on the offensive end. The problem is simply weight and conditioning. He did not look comfortable in his own jersey. It was tough watching him get up and down the court. And defensively, he really struggled to guard anyone outside of the lane, particularly when teams dragged him out in high pick ‘n rolls.<br /><br />The bottom line for Sweetney is that if he’s serious about his basketball future, he will spend this summer getting into shape. He could come back as is and put up decent stats for a year in the D-League, but in order to get a look from the NBA, he’s going to have to display a serious work ethic to go with his skill set.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-38906389578430255352010-05-31T10:49:00.003-04:002010-05-31T11:04:41.601-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Jarvis GunterJarvis Gunter averaged 13.6 minutes per game in 44 appearances with the BayHawks this season. Although he didn't score a lot, he led the team (among those who played at least 10 games) in field goal percentage at 61.2 percent.<br /><br />Gunter was Erie's most athletic big man, a solid post defender, shot blocker and rebounder. His best game of the year came March 9 against Sioux Falls as he recorded season highs in both points (15) and rebounds (13) in helping Erie to a 116-93 victory.<br /><br />Offensively is where his game has the most room for growth. He's a great finisher at the rim, but he has questionable hands and lacks a refined post-up game, which prevents him from seeing more playing time.<br /><br />That said, Gunter brings energy and effort every time he sets foot on the court. Hustle, determination, grit–whatever you want to call it–Gunter has it. His all-out attitude on the court is what earned him minutes on a BayHawks team that started out with a loaded front court and later added the likes of Michael Sweetney. Gunter showed improvements from his rookie to sophomore season in the D-League, but the array of bigs on the BayHawks roster limited his opportunities to make a regular impact.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-14256277168833196472010-05-27T13:33:00.002-04:002010-05-27T13:52:39.282-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Kyle GoldcampIf there was a team award for most improved player from the beginning to the end of the season, the BayHawks' Kyle Goldcamp would likely be named the winner. As the local kid–Goldcamp is from Pittsburgh but played his college ball at Division II Gannon University in Erie–there was a lot of added pressure and attention on Goldcamp during his rookie season with the BayHawks.<br /><br />Many people thought just making the team was an accomplishment, and early in the season, it appeared like the coaches agreed as Goldcamp saw very little playing time. Then, just as Goldcamp seemed to be gaining some traction and earning some minutes, he was released from the team due to injury on Feb. 5. He was then reacquired Feb. 25, and he went on to log 20-plus minutes in eight of the team's final 12 games, including a season-high 36 minutes in the home finale against Springfield on April 2. In that game, Goldcamp tied his career highs in points (12) and blocks (2) while setting a new personal best with 3 steals. He also contributed with 8 rebounds as Erie won the game 107-90.<br /><br />Goldcamp started each of the final five games for Erie and made 10 starts in his 32 appearances for the season. He finished the year averaging 3.3 points in 13.4 minutes per game on 50.4 percent shooting from the field.<br /><br />The biggest takeaway from Goldcamp this season was his hustle and effort. He was a tenacious defender, the type of player that always got under the skin of whomever he was defending. Although he had his trouble with fouls (his 7.3 fouls per 48 minutes was the most among the BayHawks), he brought energy and effort every time he set foot on the court. He was also the best screener on the team, setting ferocious picks to free open his teammates.<br /><br />Offensively, Goldcamp could benefit from a more polished post game and a better touch a la John Bryant from mid-range. He scored most of his points on put-backs, dunks, and layups. To be fair, though, the team didn't run many plays for him either.<br /><br />All in all, I think it's safe to say that Goldcamp had a better-than-expected rookie campaign. The transition from D2 to the D-League is not an easy one to make, but after a slow start, Goldcamp adjusted well and made himself into a solid big man for the BayHawks capable of contributing on a regular basis. With the Erie connection, I know there are a lot of local fans hoping Goldcamp returns for a second season with the BayHawks. If he opts to return, I'm willing to bet the team would love to have him back.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04001674741336985831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-27340197858279855372010-05-21T15:22:00.002-04:002010-05-21T15:38:19.154-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Cliff ClinkscalesClinkscales is a solid backup point guard. He joined the BayHawks in late December and helped sure up a shaky backcourt. Clinkscales is an excellent decision maker. In fact, he led the league in assist-to-turnover ratio (4.23).<br /><br />He's a poor shooter (42.4 percent from the field, 1-9 from 3 for the season), and he lacks an explosive first step and the ability to finish strong at the rim. But he knows his role, and he does it well.<br /><br />Clinkscales is a facilitator first and foremost. In a three-game stretch starting January 27, Clinkscales amassed 38 assists with just 7 turnovers. His smart play in December caught the eye of D-League Digest's Steve Weinman, causing him to write this <a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2009/12/28/eyes-on-clinkscales/">high praise</a> article, which inspired an entertaining dialogue in the comments section and throughout the season from other D-League bloggers (Hi Scott).<br /><br />In truth, Clinkscales' ability level is somewhere between the way it's portrayed in Weinman's article and being the butt of jokes over at Ridicukous Upside. He is a solid backup point guard in the D-League. He won't make a lot of highlight reels, but he will make a lot of smart passes. He doesn't shoot like Blake Ahearn or drive like Cedric Jackson, but he's dependable, consistent performer capabale of giving some quality minutes and setting up a team's scorers in positions where they can be most effective.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-81824471972944923052010-05-18T13:15:00.002-04:002010-05-18T13:35:35.408-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Ivan HarrisIvan Harris tied with John Bryant for the most games played as a BayHawk this season with 49. Harris started 29 of those and served as the sixth man in many of his other appearances. His final season numbers were 12.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 32.2 minutes per game.<br /><br />He finished first in 3-point attempts (183) and makes (66) among BayHawks. (Mike Gansey and Blake Ahearn exceeded his totals, but their numbers were split among two teams.) That works out to 36.1 percent from beyond the arc, which puts him 12th in the league among forwards who had at least 75 attempts. He also shot 55-64 (85.9 percent) from the free throw line, which was second on the team behind Blake Ahearn.<br /><br />Harris' biggest problem was one of my biggest pet peeves all season long. He has a bad habit of stepping on the line and shooting a long two-pointer. I wish I had kept track of how many times this happened, but even if it was only once per game–and I'm pretty confident it happened more often than–that's 49 points he cost the team.<br /><br />Foot position aside, Harris is a solid, if streaky, outside shooter. When he gets on a hot streak, he can be a really dangerous offensive weapon. He's a bit of a tweener at the forward position, not quite big enough to be a true power forward and not really quick enough to be a small forward, so that can be problematic at the defensive end.<br /><br />I don't know if Harris will look to return for a third season with the BayHawks, especially if the role calls for him to come off the bench again. But I think that's what the team would expect of him if he chose to return. He's a good scoring forward, effective coming off the bench when the team needs a spark.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-52282254346981082922010-05-14T13:04:00.003-04:002010-05-14T13:27:52.249-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Blake AhearnAlthough he played just 13 games as a BayHawk after arriving in a late-season trade from the Bakersfield Jam in exchange for Alade Aminu, Blake Ahearn was one of the most entertaining and productive players the team had this season.<br /><br />The change of scenery obviously came as a blessing for Ahearn, a former D-League all-star. In 17 games with the Jam, he averaged just 14.3 points per game on 36.7 percent shooting from the field and 27.7 percent shooting from 3. In Erie, all of those numbers improved dramatically. As a BayHawk, Ahearn averaged 25.7 points per game, the most of any BayHawk who played at least 10 games. And his shooting percentages were much better: 43.3 percent shooting from the field and 44 percent from 3.<br /><br />He also upped his assists from 4.1 to 6.7 per game and became a real workhorse, averaging a staggering 45 minutes per game during his time with the BayHawks.<br /><br />Ahearn really went off during the month of March. Four times he played the full 48 minutes. Four times he hit at least four 3-pointers. On March 15, he set a BayHawks franchise record with 38 points in a win over the Utah Flash. He followed that up with another 38-point effort that included seven made 3s against his former team, the Dakota Wizards, albeit in a losing effort.<br /><br />More than anything, Ahearn is a shooter. But he's in a class all by himself when it comes to free throw percentage. Ahearn showed why he is the NCAA's all-time free throw percentage leader. He made all but nine of his 176 free throw attempt (94.9 percent) s this season, including an 11-game stretch when he connected on 54 in a row. The league's second-best free throw shooter, Kevin Kruger, finished at 91.4 percent.<br /><br />Ahearn and Mike Gansey, affectionately dubbed the Rockers by Ridiculous Upside's Scott Shroeder formed one of the most explosive and entertaining backcourts in the D-League when they were healthy as exemplified by their season-best five-game winning streak in early March.<br /><br />The future of the BayHawks backcourt is one of the most interesting questions heading into next season. They played well at times with Cedric Jackson at the point. They played well with Blake Ahearn at the point. They did not fair particularly well when the two had to share the backcourt. If Jackson, who earned three call-ups this season, lands on an NBA team to start next season, maybe that issue resolves itself. I know Erie would love to have Ahearn and Gansey together for a full season. But there are a lot of questions that need to be answered before that can happen, namely if Ahearn and Gansey both want to return to the D-League for another season. Consider me squarely in the camp rooting against a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCljiGVZ5fE">Barber Shop moment for this duo of Rockers</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-55778484733259851932010-05-10T12:40:00.003-04:002010-05-10T13:09:22.065-04:002009-10 Players in Review: John BryantJohn Bryant was one of the top rookie big men in the D-League this season. The 2009 WCC Player of the Year, Bryant averaged 13.4 points per game. He was even more effective on the boards. His 9.5 rebounds per game led the team and placed him eighth in the league. And at 7.4 defensive rebounds per game, Bryant ranked third.<br /><br />Bryant also finished seventh in the league in double-doubles with 20 and seventh in blocks at 1.49 per game.<br /><br />Offensively, Bryant has great touch for a big man. One of Erie's go-to plays was the pick and pop with Cedric Jackson and John Bryant. Big Bad John consistently nailed the jumper from the foul line or top of the key. He shot 49.6 percent from the field for the season. The one area of his offensive game that could use more work is down low on the block, where he often takes too long to initiate his move and looks indecisive or slow.<br /><br />Conditioning is another question mark for the 300-pound Bryant. If he could shed some weight and get into better shape, he could get a look from an NBA team. He played just under 30 minutes per game, so it's not like he's unable to play long stretches, but it's visible to anyone watching that he doesn't have the prototypical NBA body, and he struggled against quicker, more athletic centers.<br /><br />Defensively, Bryant was a key cog in Erie's defense, which ranked first in the league in defensive field goal percentage at 44.7 percent (thanks to Bob Chaikin for providing that stat.) In addition to the blocked shots, Bryant did a great job of altering countless others. On top of that, the mere presence of a 6'11", 300-pounder in the middle worked as a deterrent to keep players out of the paint in the first place, forcing tougher shots.<br /><br />Bryant's future will be interesting to monitor. His combination of size and skill makes him one worth watching. As a rookie, he showed flashes of NBA potential. He also seemed overwhelmed at times by the speed of the game against certain opponents. I think if he returns to the D-League next season, Bryant could position himself for a call-up next season, but it will take a serious commitment on his part to improve not just his game but his conditioning and weight as well.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04001674741336985831noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-42850843819345104862010-05-04T15:25:00.002-04:002010-05-04T15:52:24.502-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Jackie ManuelJackie Manuel is the player every coach wants on his team. He hustles, plays great defense, and rarely plays beyond his ability. His fourth season in the D-League and second as a BayHawk featured career high averages in minutes (41.7) and points (13.9) per game. Manuel also started more games as a BayHawk this season (43) than any other player.<br /><br />Manuel missed a few games due to a death in the family, but he was Erie's Iron Man. He didn't just lead the team in minutes per game, he was second in the entire league, trailing only Iowa's Curtis Stinson. In addition to a spike in his scoring, Manuel boosted his assist numbers by almost a full point from 1.8 per game to 2.7.<br /><br />Of course, Manuel's most valuable attribute on the court remains his defense. He was the defensive stopper when North Carolina won the 2005 NCAA championship, and he was the defensive stopper with the BayHawks this season, regularly accepting the challenge of guarding the other team's best perimeter player. His defensive range shows in the defensive stat categories as well. He was 25th in the league in steals (1.48) per game and 24th in blocks (0.91) per game.<br /><br />Manuel is one of the most experienced D-League players. With that in mind, he'll have a tough decision on his hands next season. Does he return for a fifth D-League season? Does he test the overseas market? It's tough to say.<br /><br />Despite enhancing his offensive game and adding some bulk last offseason, Manuel's improvements were not enough to earn him the NBA call-up he's worked so hard for. Aside from the issue of body size, the biggest question mark with Manuel is on the offensive end, specifically his jumpshot. It went from suspect to streaky this season. His 3-point percentage and free throw percentage both showed marginal gains from last season, but neither is where he needs them to be if he wants to catch the eyes of NBA scouts.Also, his overall field goal percentage dipped from 47.9 to 44.2 percent.<br /><br />That said, Manuel has one of the most consistent performers for the BayHawks this season, scoring in double figures in 36 of his 44 games. He also probably had more highlight reel plays than any other player, mixing in a fair share of posterizing dunks and big time blocked shots. If Manuel doesn't return to Erie, it won't be because of a lack of interest from the BayHawks.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-51524892251420673112010-04-27T23:11:00.003-04:002010-04-27T23:32:10.323-04:00Frustrated Incorporated -or- Why I'm Not a Betting ManOK, so this is a personal rant. Read at your own discretion. The Rio Grande Valley Vipers just won the 2010 D-League championship. Congratulations to them, but they just drove a stake through my heart as well.<br /><br />I entered the NBA D-League's 2010 "choose your own" Twitter contest. The rules were simple. Prior to the start of the playoffs, you had to tweet your picks for the D-League finals, who would win and the score of the decisive game. I had <a href="http://twitter.com/BlogTalkBayHawk/status/11703252109">Rio Grande Valley over Tulsa in a 221-point finale</a>.<br /><br />As it turned out, <a href="http://twitter.com/nbadleague/status/12641052283">only one other person</a> had RGV vs. Tulsa in the finals. He or she had a final score of just <a href="http://twitter.com/nbadleague/status/12647087778">167 points</a>. I'm not yet sure who that other person was, but I wonder if they were glued to the computer screen as I was, stuck watching a periodically updating box score with the game only being broadcast on tape delay on Versus and not streamed live via FutureCast.<br /><br />If you do the math between our predictions, I needed the total to be 189 points or greater. The other person needed 187 or less. I was feeling pretty confident heading into the game, <a href="http://twitter.com/BlogTalkBayHawk/status/12980798593">but the fluke was on</a>. These were the same two teams that combined for 231 points in Game 1. Yet somehow, they had just 131 heading into the fourth, leaving me to root for <a href="http://twitter.com/BlogTalkBayHawk/status/12981478644">one of these three outcomes</a>.<br /><br />Down the stretch it looked like they might actually make a run at the 189-point mark, but defenses stiffened down the stretch and the game was tied at 91 with 8 seconds left, Vipers ball. A stop from Tulsa and the game goes into overtime where all I would have needed was 9 combined points to cross the threshold. As fate would have it, Vipers guard Craig Winder beat the buzzer with a 3-pointer that won the D-league championship for Rio Grande Valley while simultaneously losing the contest for me...BY A MERE FOUR POINTS.<br /><br />To put that into perspective, these teams combined to miss 96 shots in the game. Ninety-six! If they would've made two of those 96 and shot just 44.7 percent from the field, I would have won the contest. The teams combined to miss eight free throws. Convert on just half of those misses and I'd be in the winner's circle. Or, if Winder's shot misses and the game goes into overtime, I'm sitting pretty for a prize with an RGV win or a retry if Tulsa were to win.<br /><br />Instead, I'm left to write this blathering blog post pining about what coulda-shoulda-woulda been had there just been a few more points. Four points to be exact. Of course, had I just predicted a 106-101 finale, this post never would have had to happen. Bummer.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04001674741336985831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-6488113150288871772010-04-27T13:52:00.003-04:002010-04-27T14:52:07.555-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Mike GanseyGansey was acquired by the BayHawks in a Dec. 31 trade that sent Erie's number one draft pick, Donell Taylor, to the Idaho Stampede. At the time of the trade, <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/bayhawks-trade-donell-taylor-to-idaho.html">I was a bit skeptical</a> since Taylor was a focal point of Erie's offense and Gansey was a sixth round pick by Idaho.<br /><br />Fortunately, Gansey's arrival in Erie unleashed the player that helped West Virginia make an Elite Eight and Sweet 16 appearance in back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2005 and 2006. In 27 games as a BayHawk, Gansey averaged 18.4 points per game, highest among those who played at least 15 games with the team. He hit 59-181 3s (32.6 percent) and shot 83.1 percent from the line. But beyond the stats, what he gave Erie was the outside shooting <span style="font-style: italic;">threat </span>that they did not have before acquiring him.<br /><br />For the season, Gansey's 7.1 rebounds per game ranked him second in the D-League among guards. He actually averaged even better rebounding numbers with the BayHawks (8.2).<br /><br />Gansey's best stretch of play came early in March. In six games, he averaged 26.2 points while shooting 18-37 from 3-point range, 10.5 rebounds, and 2 steals and led the BayHawks to a 5-1 record. He also <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/performer_100201.html">earned D-League Performer of the Week honors</a> for the week of Jan. 25, which was highlighted by the game against Springfield when he hit the game winning layup with just 8 seconds remaining.<br /><br />Unfortunately, Gansey's time with the BayHawks was limited due to injury and illness. He missed 10 games in all.<br /><br />Still, Gansey was one of the most valuable BayHawks this season and that's before you factor in <a href="http://www.ridiculousupside.com/section/player-posts">the entertaining and informative blog he wrote over at Ridiculous Upside</a>. After spurning the BayHawks in their inaugural season and choosing to play overseas after they made him their number one pick, Gansey won over the fans and organization with strong play on the court and great personality off it.<br /><br />He showed glimpses of being NBA-caliber this season. Hopefully he's back in Erie next season to put together that same type of performance on a game-to-game basis and earn a shot at the next level.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-35166627713103049642010-04-26T11:18:00.003-04:002010-04-26T11:58:24.149-04:002009-10 Players in Review: Cedric JacksonRookie Cedric Jackson probably improved more than any BayHawks player from the beginning to the end of the season. His development was duly noted by scouts at the NBA level, too, as he earned call-ups from three NBA teams (Cleveland, San Antonio, and Washington).<br /><br />At the D-League level, Jackson was one of the league's best point guards. He finished the season third in the league in assists (7.4), 12th in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.25), and fifth in steals (2.06) per game. Jackson was also a force attacking the rim. Using his lightning quick first step to get past his defender, Jackson earned a team-high 249 free throw attempts in his 34 games as a BayHawk while converting at a 72.3 percent clip. His 7.3 free throw attempts per game ranked ninth in the league. His nine double-doubles were also tied for sixth most among D-League guards.<br /><br />The weak link of Jackson's game was his outside shooting. For the season, he shot 42.6 percent from the field and hit just 27 of 100 3-point attempts.<br /><br />His best stretch of the season came in mid-January just prior to his first NBA call-up to the Cavs. In five games from January 10-19, Jackson averaged 36.8 minutes, 27 points, 9 assists, and 2 steals per game, and shot 47-55 from the free throw line. The BayHawks went 4-1 over that stretch. They proceeded to go 2-7 after he was called up to Cleveland.<br /><br />Later in the season, team chemistry wasn't quite the same with Jackson and newly acquired Blake Ahearn in the backcourt, but that should not overshadow Jackson's development as a first-year pro. After three separate stints in the NBA, Jackson has his sights set on making an NBA roster to start the 2010-11 season. Despite limited minutes at the NBA level, I think the odds are at least 50/50 if not better that Jackson does land an NBA gig, possibly in Washington, where <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/cedric-jackson-finishes-nba-season-on.html">he finished the season on a high note</a>.<br /><br />He has NBA quickness. And at 6'3" he has good length for a point guard. Defensively he has a lot to offer. He was the Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year at Cleveland State and was one of the best on-ball perimeter defenders in the D-League. Spending time in San Antonio under Gregg Popovich and in Cleveland under Mike Brown likely helped him learn some more about playing defense at the NBA level and defending the pick 'n roll.<br /><br />If he doesn't make it, the reason will be shooting. Jackson should be spending hours every day this summer with a shooting coach, working to improve his outside jumper. If he can develop a respectable perimeter game to keep defenses honest, there will be nothing stopping him from earning a backup point guard role. If he remains the player he is today, he may still catch on somewhere in a niche role or he may wind up back in the D-League or playing overseas. It would be somewhat surprising to see him back with the BayHawks next season. He has NBA athleticism. If he can augment the skills he has and continue to work hard to refine his offensive game, he'll have an NBA contract as well.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-78566374219194891902010-04-16T20:57:00.003-04:002010-04-16T21:24:04.472-04:00Filling Out My NBA Playoff BracketMarch Madness left me wounded (thanks a lot, Syracuse!) But the D-League playoffs have me on the rebound with my predictions after <a href="http://dleaguedigest.com/2010/04/07/big-man-call-ups-could-spell-chaos-in-d-leagues-opening-round/">going 4-0 in the first round</a>. So, I thought I'd take a stab at the NBA playoffs while I'm at it.<br /><br />For what it's worth, I hit on six of the eight playoff teams in both my <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/10/my-twitter-friendly-2009-nba-preview.html">East</a> and <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/10/my-twitter-friendly-nba-preview-part-2.html">West</a> preseason predictions. I narrowly missed on the Thunder (9th) and seriously underestimated Milwaukee, who I picked to finish dead last in the East.<br /><br />The biggest difference is between the NBA playoffs and NCAA Tournament is that March Madness is one-and-done, which, as we all witnessed this year, opens the door to plenty of unpredictable upsets. In the D-League, the playoffs expanded to a best-of-3 series this season, so upsets are still possible, but it can't happen with just one fluke performance. The NBA model of best-of-7 means the best team usually wins. With that in mind, here are my picks:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1st Round</span><br />1. Cleveland Cavaliers over 8. Chicago Bulls in 4<br />4. Boston Celtics over 5. Miami Heat in 7<br />3. Atlanta Hawks over 6. Milwaukee Bucks in 6<br />2. Orlando Magic over 7. Charlotte Bobcats in 6<br /><br />1. Los Angeles Lakers over 8. Oklahoma City Thunder in 5<br />4. Denver Nuggets over 5. Utah Jazz in 7<br />3. Phoenix Suns over Portland Trail Blazers in 6<br />2. Dallas Mavericks over San Antonio Spurs in 6<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2nd Round</span><br />1. Cleveland Cavaliers over 4. Boston Celtics in 5<br />2. Orlando Magic over 3. Atlanta Hawks in 6<br /><br />1. Los Angeles Lakers over 4. Denver Nuggets in 7<br />2. Dallas Mavericks over 3. Phoenix Suns in 6<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Conference Finals</span><br />1. Cleveland Cavaliers over 2. Orlando Magic in 6<br /><br />1. Los Angeles Lakers over 2. Dallas Mavericks in 6<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2010 NBA Finals</span><br />Los Angeles Lakers over Cleveland Cavaliers in 7<br /><br />I know the Lakers are entering the playoffs with several question marks. Their play has tapered off down the stretch. Andrew Bynum hasn't played in weeks. Kobe Bryant is showing signs of wear and tear. Plus, LeBron James has been a force all year long and seems hell bent on winning the title this year before becoming a free agent this summer.<br /><br />Still, I picked the Lakers over the Cavs way back in October, and I'm a Lakers fan, so I'm sticking with the pick. It's almost impossible for a defending NBA champion to come in under the radar, but this Lakers team is not expected to win. People are talking about them like they're a lost cause. If anyone can perform an instant playoff turnaround, it's Phil Jackson. And if they do advance to the Finals to meet the Cavs, the Phil Jackson vs. Mike Brown coaching dynamic favors the Lakers. And although Kobe-LeBron is no longer a question in terms of athletic talent, LeBron still hasn't gotten it done in the postseason. There is no doubt that Kobe's competitive fire will be at an all-time high if this series materializes because he wants no part of being a torch passer. Not now. Not yet. Lakers in a memorable seven games is my prediction.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-20697956261169778082010-04-16T20:26:00.006-04:002010-04-16T20:55:21.998-04:00All NBA D-League Teams AnnouncedThe official 2009-10 All D-League teams were announced today as follows:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1st Team</span><br />Guard: Curtis Stinson, Iowa Energy<br />Guard: Reggie Williams, Sioux Falls Skyforce<br />Forward: Mike Harris, Rio Grande Valley Vipers<br />Forward: Cartier Martin, Iowa Energy<br />Center: Dwayne Jones, Austin Toros<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2nd Team</span><br />Guard: Will Conroy, Rio Grande Valley Vipers<br />Guard: Mustafa Shakur, Tulsa 66ers<br />Forward: Alonzo Gee, Austin Toros<br />Forward: Rob Kurz, Fort Wayne Mad Ants<br />Center: Brian Butch, Bakersfield Jam<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3rd Team</span><br />Guard: Antonio Anderson, Rio Grande Valley Vipers<br />Guard: Curtis Jerrells, Austin Toros<br />Forward: Alade Aminu, Bakersfield Jam<br />Forward: Larry Owens, Tulsa 66ers<br />Center: Earl Barron, Iowa Energy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Honorable Mentions</span><br />Guard: Morris Almond, Maine Red Claws<br />Guard: Desmon Farmer, Reno Bighorns<br />Guard: Orien Greene, Utah Flash<br />Guard: Cedric Jackson, Erie BayHawks<br />Guard: Coby Karl, daho Stampede<br />Guard: Keith McLeod, Albuquerque Thunderbirds<br />Guard: Garrett Temple, Rio Grande Valley Vipers<br />Forward: Romel Beck, Dakota Wizards<br />Forward: Rod Benson, Reno Bighorns<br />Forward: Bennett Davis, Utah Flash<br />Forward: Trey Gilder, Albuquerque Thunderbirds<br />Forward: Donell Taylor, Idaho Stampede<br />Center: John Bryant, Erie BayHawks<br />Center: Byron Mullens, Tulsa 66ers<br />Center: Greg Stiemsma, Sioux Falls Skyforce<br /><br />Today also marked the release of the <a href="http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/4/16/1426580/nba-d-league-and-its-blogosphere">D-League blogosphere's All-D-League selections</a> over at Ridiculous Upside, which included a vote from yours truly. The results can be seen below.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1st Team</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Guard: Curtis Stinson, Iowa Energy</span><br />Guard: Reggie Williams, Sioux Falls Skyforce <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Morris Almond)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Forward: Mike Harris, Rio Grande Valley Vipers</span><br />Forward: Cartier Martin, Iowa Energy <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Rob Kurz)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Center: Dwayne Jones, Austin Toros</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2nd team</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Guard: Will Conroy, Rio Grande Valley Vipers</span><br />Guard: Morris Almond, Maine Red Claws <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Mustafa Shakur)</span><br />Forward: Carlos Powell, Albuquerque Thunderbirds <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Rod Benson)</span><br />Forward: Rob Kurz, Fort Wayne Mad Ants <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Reggie Williams)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Center: Earl Barron, Iowa Energy</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3rd Team</span><br />Guard: Mustafa Shakur, Tulsa 66ers <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Curtis Jerrells)</span><br />Guard: Alonzo Gee, Austin Toros <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Orien Greene)</span><br />Forward: Cartier Martin, Iowa Energy <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Romel Beck)</span><br />Forward: Larry Owens, Tulsa 66ers <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Carlos Powell)</span><br />Center: Rod Benson, Reno Bighorns <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Brian Butch)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Honorable Mentions</span><br />Guard: Curtis Jerrells, Austin Toros<br />Guard: Donell Taylor, Idaho Stampede<br />Guard: Blake Ahearn, Erie BayHawks<br />Guard: Orien Greene, Utah Flash<br />Guard: Coby Karl, Idaho Stampede<br />Forward: Romel Beck, Dakota Wizards<br />Forward: Diamon Simpson, Los Angeles D-Fenders<br />Center: John Bryant, Erie BayHawks<br />Center: Brian Butch, Bakersfield Jam<br />Center: Greg Stiemsma, Sioux Falls Skyforce<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04001674741336985831noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-84400965709489696612010-04-15T14:43:00.000-04:002010-04-15T14:45:27.959-04:00Cedric Jackson Finishes NBA Season on a High Note<!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1107304683 0 0 159 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> It took three teams, four contracts, and 12 appearances, but Cedric Jackson finally got a chance to put his talent on display in the NBA last night in the Washington Wizards’ season finale, a 98-97 win over the Indiana Pacers.<br /><br />In the game, Jackson set season highs for minutes played (19) and points (8). Granted the game was between two teams long eliminated from playoff contention, and Jackson did commit 5 turnovers to go along with his 4 assists. Still, the rookie point guard made plays down the stretch of an NBA game and scored all 8 of his points in the fourth quarter, including the game-winning 3-pointer, the first 3 of Jackson’s NBA career, with 1:31 left to play.<br /><br />The game was just his fourth as a Wizard and only the third all year in which he played at least 10 minutes. His previous highs of 15 minutes and 6 points each came during games he played as a member of the San Antonio Spurs back on March 13 and 12, respectively. <br /><br />Jackson, who earned his first call-up from the Cleveland Cavaliers, saw both his minutes per game and points per game increase with each subsequent call-up. He finished his rookie NBA season (12 games played) with averages of 6.3 minutes, 1.7 points, 1.2 assists, 0.9 turnovers, 0.7 rebounds, 0.2 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game. It’s a small sample size, but the fact that three different teams chose to take a look at him is proof that there is interest in the lightning quick point guard heading into next season. The biggest detriment of Jackson’s game is probably his shooting touch. He finished just 6-20 (30 percent) from the field, 1-6 (16.7 percent) from 3, and 7-12 (58.3 percent) from the free throw line. <br /><br />After spending most of his call-up time with Cleveland and San Antonio riding the bench for playoff-bound teams, it was nice to see Jackson get an opportunity to finally play some legitimate minutes in the season finale for a Wizards team that has some serious questions to answer and holes to plug in its roster as it looks forward to the 2010-11 season.<br /><br />An 8-point fourth quarter and game-winning 3? As Herm Edwards would say, he can build on this! If Jackson can put together a strong summer—especially if he can find a shooting coach and improve his outside jumper—then I’d say there’s no reason why Jackson shouldn’t be competing for a backup point guard spot in the NBA next fall, possibly even in Washington.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-3269471737054534202010-04-14T08:00:00.000-04:002010-04-14T08:00:09.201-04:002009-10 Erie BayHawks Season in Review, Part 3: March/AprilThis is the third part of my three-part month-by-month review of the BayHawks’ 2009-10 season. Be sure to also read parts <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/2009-10-erie-bayhawks-season-in-review.html">one (November/December)</a> and <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/2009-10-erie-bayhawks-season-in-review_09.html">two (January/February)</a>. Today's post focuses on the months of March and April as Erie made one final push for the postseason only to come up short.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MARCH<br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 6-5 (3-5 Home, 3-0 Road)</span><br />Iowa 116, Erie 111 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900278">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-iowa-energy-116-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Iowa 120, Erie 127 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900284">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-iowa-energy-120-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Sioux Falls 93, Erie 116 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900293">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-sioux-falls-skyforce-93.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 101, Albuquerque 97 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900301">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/bayhawks-thunderbirds-review-bayhawks.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 116, Idaho 102 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900307">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-erie-bayhawks-116-idaho.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 111, Utah 101 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900315">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-erie-bayhawks-111-utah.html">review</a>)<br />Dakota 109, Erie 105 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900325">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-dakota-wizards-109-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Dakota 101, Erie 100 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900331">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-dakota-wizards-101-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 90, Erie 86 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900220">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-fort-wayne-mad-ants-90-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 82, Erie 95 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900347">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/weekend-games-review-fort-wayne-mad.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 114, Erie 108 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900359">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/weekend-games-review-fort-wayne-mad.html">review</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />March 2: Acquired Blake Ahearn in a trade with Bakersfield Jam for Alade Aminu.<br />March 10: Cedric Jackson called up by San Antonio Spurs<br />March 11: Acquired Mike Sweetney<br />March 20: Darnell Jackson re-assigned by Cleveland Cavaliers<br />March 21: Darnell Jackson recalled by Cleveland Cavaliers<br />March 31: Cedric Jackson called up by Washington Wizards<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks C0-Players of the Month<br /></span>Mike Gansey: 44.3 mpg, 21.3 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 48.9 percent shooting, 45.2 percent 3-point shooting, 2.1 spg<br />Blake Ahearn: 45.1 mpg, 24.6 ppg, 6.1 apg, 97.7 percent free throw shooting (85-87), 41.2 percent 3-point shooting<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />March was perhaps the most interesting month of the season for the BayHawks. Despite losing their all-star forward Alade Aminu, the BayHawks started the month strong, including a season-high five straight games behind the amazing guard play of Blake Ahearn and Mike Gansey. When Cedric Jackson returned to the lineup, the team suddenly seemed to have too much talent at guard and the team chemistry appeared affected. Mike Gansey then came down with an illness that cost him about two weeks worth of games, and the team ultimately came up short of the playoffs. Still, the team that played for much of the month of March looked like a team that could've been a playoff team had they played the full season together.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">APRIL</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 2-0 (1-0 Home, 1-0 Road)</span><br />Springfield 90, Erie 107 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900371">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/springfield-game-review-season-finale.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 105, Maine 97 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900378">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/final-game-highlights-erie-bayhawks-105.html">review</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks Player of the Month</span><br />Blake Ahearn: 45 mpg, 31.5 ppg, 10 apg, 54.1 percent (13-24) 3-point shooting<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />The BayHawks closed the season on a high note, winning both of their games in April. The first game was a game they almost had to win, the Fan Appreciation Night home finale against league worst Springfield. The follow-up was much more telling of this team's character. The night after the Springfield game, Erie had to play in Maine in a televised game that the Red Claws needed to win to get into the playoffs. Erie was playing for pride, and yet they prevailed on the strength of Blake Ahearn's hot shooting.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-83668069661213035172010-04-12T20:05:00.001-04:002010-04-12T20:06:20.895-04:00Gansey Part of NBA Contingent Headed to ChinaStraight press release from me today:<br /><br />Erie BayHawks guard Mike Gansey is part of a contingent of NBA Legends and NBA Development League players headed to the Sichuan Province to participate in NBA Cares events and play two games in support of Beijing Aoshen basketball team charity efforts April 16-18. The activities are part of the NBA’s continued commitment to support rebuilding efforts in the earthquake stricken Sichuan Province.<br /><br />Gansey was one of several D-League players that was asked to participate in the events and jumped at the opportunity to travel abroad. “I’ll represent Erie in the best way I can,” said Gansey. “As soon as I was asked I said ‘of course I want to go.’ I’ve been overseas before but never to China. I’m really looking forward to playing and hanging out with guys like Chris Mullin and Robert Horry and the rest of the D-League players,” he added.<br /><br />Gansey departs Wednesday morning for the weeklong trip. The rest of the roster is still being finalized due to the ongoing D-League playoffs.<br /><br />On April 17 and 18, Gansey and his teammates through an invitation from Beijing Aoshen basketball team, will participate in two exhibition games to celebrate the successful completion of the Chengdu International Basketball Invitation Tournament. The Chengdu NBA Aoshen Legends Game will be two friendly games that will see the NBA Legends switch sides and play for Aoshen at halftime of each game. The New Jersey Nets Dance Team and Mascot, SLY the fox will also make the trip.<br /><br />Preceding the games, on April 16, Mullin, NBA D-League players and the New Jersey Nets dance team and mascot will join NBA Cares, the league’s global social responsibility program, to unveil four refurbished courts at the Dujiangyan Qingcheng Mountain Advanced Secondary School. Following the unveiling, the former NBA stars will host a basketball clinic for the students.<br /><br />One hundred selected students and earthquake orphans from the Dujiangyan School will also be invited to attend the exhibition game on April 17 and 18 and will be recognized on court during the game.<br /><br />Fans can watch for updates of Gansey’s trip on the team’s website at <a href="http://www.eriebayhawks.com">www.eriebayhawks.com</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-10840292400907464412010-04-09T09:00:00.001-04:002010-04-12T15:57:22.952-04:002009-10 Erie BayHawks Season in Review, Part 2: January/FebruaryIf you missed it, I looked back at November and December yesterday in <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/04/2009-10-erie-bayhawks-season-in-review.html">part one of my 2009-10 season review</a>.<br /><br />Here now is part two of my three-part month-by-month review of the BayHawks’ 2009-10 season. Today's post focuses on the months of January and February when Erie continued to retool and reshape itself on the fly in an attempt to turn its fortunes around.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">JANUARY<br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 8-7 (3-3 Home, 3-4 Road, 2-0 Neutral)</span><br />Erie 86, Maine 94 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900101">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-year-same-old-struggles-for.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 75, Springfield 97 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900104">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/new-year-same-old-struggles-for.html">review</a>)<br />*Reno 88, Erie 92 OT (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900393">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-erie-bayhawks-92-reno.html">review</a>)<br />*Erie 102, Los Angeles 89 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900398">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-erie-bayhawks-102-los.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 89, Erie 87 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900116">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-fort-wayne-mad-ants-89-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 70, Erie 100 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900121">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-erie-bayhawks-100-fort.html">review</a>)<br />Fort Wayne 97, Erie 109 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900128">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100113/FWNERI/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Erie 91, Tulsa 91 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900141">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-reviews-yes-plural-bayhawks.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 102, Tulsa 97 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900146">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-reviews-yes-plural-bayhawks.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 113, Austin 121 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900149">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-austin-toros-121-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Rio Grande Valley 110, Erie 88 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900156">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100122/RGVERI/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Rio Grande Valley 100, Erie 94 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900163">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100123/RGVERI/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Springfield 94, Erie 95 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900170">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-springfield-armor-94-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 78, Maine 82 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900176">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/weekend-games-review-erie-loses-to.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 93, Springfield 91 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900182">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/weekend-games-review-erie-loses-to.html">review</a>)<br /><br />*D-League Showcase<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />Jan. 4: Acquired Booker Woodfox. Waived Martin Zeno.<br />Jan. 11: Acquired Frank Tolbert. Waived Booker Woodfox.<br />Jan. 23: Cedric Jackson called up by Cleveland Cavaliers<br />Jan. 29: Acquired Tychicus Snow.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks C0-Players of the Month<br /></span>Alade Aminu: 33.4 mpg, 16.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1 bpg<br />Cedric Jackson: 35 mpg, 21.5 ppg, 7.8 apg, 4.7 rpg, 2.4 spg<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />January was the month where Alade Aminu flashed his all-star potential with a 30-point, 23-rebound effort in front of NBA scouts in Erie's first game of the D-League Showcase. Unfortunately, the month ended with Aminu playing just 38 minutes combined in two games, foreshadowing the eventual deal that would send him out of Erie. On a positive note, January was the BayHawks' first winning month of the season, highlighted by a 2-0 performance in the Showcase, back-to-back road wins in Tulsa, and Mike Gansey's clutch free throws against Springfield that helped earn him <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/performer_100201.html">D-League Performer of the Week honors</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">FEBRUARY</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 1-8 (1-2 Home, 0-6 Road)</span><br />Iowa 101, Erie 87 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900194">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-iowa-energy-101-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 94, Iowa 97 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900200">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-erie-bayhawks-94-iowa.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 78, Iowa 102 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900206">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-erie-bayhawks-78-iowa.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 82, Iowa 85 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900215">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-erie-bayhawks-82-iowa.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 84, Fort Wayne 105 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900236">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100220/ERIFWN/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Erie 80, Fort Wayne 91 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900241">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20100221/ERIFWN/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Dakota 108, Erie 114 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900250">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-erie-bayhawks-114-dakota.html">review</a>)<br />Dakota 108, Erie 103 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900254">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/02/game-review-erie-bayhawks-114-dakota_27.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 95, Maine 102 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900254">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/03/game-review-erie-bayhawks-95-maine-red.html">review</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />Feb. 5: Waived Kyle Goldcamp due to injury.<br />Feb. 16: Re-acquired Cedric Jackson.<br />Feb. 24: Danny Green adn Darnell Jackson assigned by the Cleveland Cavaliers.<br />Feb. 25: Re-acquired Kyle Goldcamp<br />Feb. 25: Waived Tychicus Snow<br />Feb. 26: Darnell Jackson recalled by Cavaliers<br />Feb. 28: Danny Green recalled by Cavaliers.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks Player of the Month</span><br />Mike Gansey: 39.4 mpg, 14.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />February was a month to forget for the BayHawks, featuring a season-long six game losing streak and just one win, which happened to be the night Cleveland assigned both Darnell Jackson and Danny Green. Alade Aminu earned an all-star selection only to regress in his performance and see his playing time diminish. Cedric Jackson earned a call-up that left the team void of ballhandling and movement on offense. Mike Gansey earned my nod for player of the month over the likes of Ivan Harris, John Bryant, and Jackie Manuel, even though February was Gansey's worst shooting month as a BayHawk at 39.3 percent from the field. That about sums it up. February was an ugly month for Erie as game after game they reinvented ways to lose.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-6320595545560626002010-04-08T11:16:00.006-04:002010-04-08T13:01:18.092-04:002009-10 Erie BayHawks Season in Review, Part 1: November/DecemberThe Erie BayHawks set the bar high by posting a 27-23 record and qualifying for the postseason in their inaugural season last year. The team had high hopes for the 2009-10 season despite an opening day roster that returned just three players from last year’s team. In fact, they were ranked fourth in the <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/power_rankings_091113.html">initial D-League power rankings</a>.<br /><br />But after winning the season opener on the road against Fort Wayne, Erie lost seven of their next eight games and never again rose above the .500 mark. The midseason trade that brought in Mike Gansey and late-season trade that brought in Blake Ahearn provided small boosts, but the team was unable to find a consistent winning formula, finishing the season 21-29, sixth in the East Conference and six games back of the eighth playoff spot.<br /><br />Here now is part one of three of my month-by-month review of the BayHawks’ 2009-10 season, a season that was ultimately disappointing but not without its share of memorable moments.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NOVEMBER<br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 1-1 (0-0 Home, 1-1 Road)</span><br />Erie 85, Fort Wayne 77 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900002">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/11/erie-bayhawks-vs-fort-wayne-mad-ants.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 82, Fort Wayne 93 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900013">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/11/game-review-erie-bayhawks-82-fort-wayne.html">review</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />Nov. 6: Acquired Alade Aminu from Fort Wayne for rights to Rob Kurz.<br />Nov. 16: Waived Derrick Mercer, Raheem Moss, Jeff Skemp, and Ryan Troutman.<br />Nov. 18: Waived Joe Jones.<br />Nov. 25: Waived Oliver Lafayette and Rod Wilmont.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks Player of the Month<span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /></span>John Bryant: 37 mpg, 15 ppg, 14 rpg, 2 bpg<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />Lafayette and Wilmont both signed with the Mad Ants soon after Erie cut them. Both would factor into Fort Wayne victories over Erie later in the season. Kurz pushed for a trade and had little or no interest in playing for the BayHawks, but I can't help but wonder how the season would've played out differently had he been on the roster all season in place of Aminu, who was himself eventually traded to Bakersfield.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DECEMBER</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Record: 3-8 (1-5 Home, 2-3 Road)</span><br />Erie 101, Sioux Falls 110 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900024">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-erie-bayhawks-101-sious.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 109, Sioux Falls 107 OT (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900029">box</a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20091205/ERISXF/recap.html">review</a> via D-League)<br />Maine 116, Erie 90 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900047">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-maine-red-claws-116-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Maine 81, Erie 77 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900060">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-maine-red-claws-81-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Maine 96, Erie 75 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900061">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-maine-red-claws-96-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 88, Iowa 95 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900068">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/bayhawks-losing-streak-grows-to-five.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 89, Iowa 99 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900072">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/bayhawks-losing-streak-grows-to-five.html">review</a>)<br />Erie 108, Springfield 94 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900077">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-erie-bayhawks-108.html">review</a>)<br />Iowa 99, Erie 90 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900080">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-iowa-energy-99-erie.html">review</a>)<br />Iowa 100, Erie 95 OT (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900087">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/iowa-energy-100-erie-bayhawks-95-ot.html">review</a>)<br />Bakersfield 78, Erie 91 (<a href="http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/boxscore.jsp?gameId=2020900092">box</a> | <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2009/12/game-review-erie-bayhawks-91.html">review</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Transactions</span><br />Dec. 18: Acquired Cliff Clinkscales. Waived Zach Sowers.<br />Dec. 31: Acquired Mike Gansey in a trade with Idaho for Donell Taylor.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">BayHawks Player of the Month</span><br />Jackie Manuel: 42 mpg, 14.2 ppg, 6 rpg, 1.9 stocks (steals+blocks) per game<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">20/20 Hindsight</span><br />This wasthe month the train got off track. Erie lost its first five home games and sputtered offensively, failing to score 95 points seven times in 11 games. Fairly or not, Erie's offensive disarray was traced back to the failed experiment to play Donell Taylor at point guard. As a result, Taylor was shipped to Idaho for Mike Gansey, which also allowed rookie Cedric Jackson to take over the role of point guard. The Dec. 27 loss at home to Iowa was among the worst of the season for the BayHawks as they blew a 30-point lead before bowing out in overtime.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-62819231901182488312010-04-06T00:39:00.003-04:002010-04-06T00:44:41.384-04:00Final Game Highlights: Erie BayHawks 105, Maine Red Claws 97Erie wrapped up the season with a 105-97 win over the Maine Red Claws. It was their first win in seven tries against the Red Claws this season. The Red Claws finished the season with six straight losses and missed out on the playoffs at 27-23. Erie finished the year 21-29 by winning their last two games.<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/w_otv51o1Uc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/w_otv51o1Uc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br />The 2010 D-League Playoffs will begin on Wednesday. The Erie BayHawks season is now over, but that doesn't mean Blog Talk BayHawk will shut down. We'll be transitioning into off-season mode, but not before recapping all of the ups and downs from the 2009-10 season.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12186778891943365572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-52566813588229601072010-04-03T12:10:00.002-04:002010-04-03T12:36:41.979-04:00Springfield Game Review + Season Finale Game Preview: Erie BayHawks (20-29) vs. Maine Red Claws (27-22)The BayHawks closed out their home schedule yesterday with a 107-90 victory over the Springfield Armor. Tonight, they finish the season on the road against the Maine Red Claws in a game that will be televised on Versus tonight at 11 p.m.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Erie coming in:</span> Yesterday's win was the second in three games for the BayHawks and their 10th home win of the season (10-15). Blake Ahearn led the way with 31 points, including 6-14 from 3, and 11 assists. Mike Gansey also made a splash in his return to the lineup, shooting 7-12 from the field for 16 points to go along with 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Ivan Harris and John Bryant each chipped in with 15 points, and Mike Sweetney and Kyle Goldcamp each had 12. Abdulai Jalloh was a one-man wrecking crew for the Armor, scoring a game-high 35 points in a losing effort.<br /><br />Check out the highlights below:<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8W-Ynurexs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8W-Ynurexs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maine coming in: </span>After sporting one of the top records in the league earlier this season, the Red Claws have fallen off down the stretch. They've lost five straight, including a 102-95 loss at home last night against Fort Wayne, and currently sit in eighth place in the D-League standings at 27-22.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What's at stake tonight?</span><br />For Maine, the stakes couldn't be much higher. They need a win plus a loss by Reno in one of the Bighorns' final two games in order to make the playoffs because Reno (26-22) owns the tiebreaker by virtue of going 2-0 against the Red Claws this season.<br /><br />For Erie, they have a chance to play the role of spoiler in a game that will be on national TV. This is also their final opportunity to break through and get a victory against Maine. The BayHawks are 0-6 against the Red Claws so far this season, but this is the first time Erie has played Maine since acquiring Blake Ahearn and Michael Sweetney. It should be a fun backcourt matchup with Maine's Russell Robinson and Maurice Ager going head-to-head against Ahearn and Mike Gansey.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12186778891943365572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-21096641602769299372010-04-02T11:36:00.003-04:002010-04-02T13:54:33.832-04:00Home Finale Game Preview: Springfield Armor (7-42) vs. Erie BayHawks (19-29)It's been a rocky season for the Erie BayHawks. Inconsistent play has led to a disappointing season that will see the team finish with a losing record and miss the playoffs after qualifying for the postseason as an expansion team last year. The season wraps up tomorrow night in Maine in a game that can be seen on Versus (tune in after the Final Four finishes!).<br /><br />Tonight marks the final home game for the BayHawks. The friendly confines of Tullio Arena have been a bit too friendly for visiting squads this season. Erie is 9-15 at home. The good news is that their home finale opponent is the league's worst team, the Springfield Armor, who are just 7-42 this year. It's Fan Appreciation Night, and I have courtside seats, so here's hoping the BayHawks close out the home slate on a high note!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Game 49 Preview: Springfield Armor (7-42) vs. Erie BayHawks (19-29)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Springfield coming in</span>: The Armor haven't won a game since March 16 when they defeated Albuquerque 108-104. They're currently on an eight-game losing streak. Worse yet, the Armor are 0-24 on the road this season. With tonight being their last game of the season, Springfield is going to be determined to break through and avoid the embarrassment of the 0-fer. It doesn't hurt that the Armor did defeat the BayHawks once earlier this season either, although both rosters are considerably different than they were back then.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Erie coming in: </span>After winning five of their first six games in March, Erie closed the month by losing four of five and being eliminated from playoff contention. Point guard Cedric Jackson was called up by the Washington Wizards and thus will not be with the BayHawks for the final two games. Jackson's departure will shift Blake Ahearn back into the role as the primary ballhandler. The good news for Erie is that Mike Gansey is slated to return to the lineup tonight after missing the past three games recovering from the flu.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BayHawks keys to success:</span> Honestly, there's not a whole lot new to say at this point in the season. Both teams are playing for pride, so I'm not going to get into the X's and O's for this one. But there are three storylines worth following tonight.<br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rockers Reunion</span><br />Ridiculous Upside's Scott Schroeder dubbed Ahearn and Gansey as the Rockers. I'm not sure if <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAU6uadl_Sg#t=0m56s">the Armor is more Iron Mike Sharpe or The Intruder</a>, but you get the idea. When Cedric Jackson was with the Spurs, Ahearn and Gansey were really clicking in the BayHawks backcourt. Jackson returned, Gansey got sick, and production dropped off, but the tandem gets one last chance to shine in Erie tonight, and there will be no <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCljiGVZ5fE">Barber Shop Incident</a> that breaks up this team<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fan Appreciation Night</span><br />A large crowd is expected tonight in Erie as it is the final game of the season and Fan Appreciation Night. I don't know how much of a difference a packed crowd can make on a game, but I think it's safe to say the BayHawks would like to give their fans a good showing to close out the home schedule.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Springfield's Last Hope</span><br />As I mentioned earlier, the Armor has not won a road game all season long. However, one of the Armor's closest calls came during their only other trip to Erie. Springfield led by 8 points with just over four minutes remaining before the BayHawks mounted a late surge, <a href="http://eriebayhawks.blogspot.com/2010/01/game-review-springfield-armor-94-erie.html">eventually winning 95-94</a> thanks to two clutch three throws from Gansey. If Springfield loses again tonight, that 0-25 mark is going to stick with them for a long time. On the flip side, Erie doesn't want to be the team that ended that streak, especially in the home finale.<br /></li></ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12186778891943365572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-28478945923761725862010-03-31T12:16:00.002-04:002010-03-31T12:44:18.435-04:00Cedric Jackson to the NBA, Version 3.0Yesterday, <a href="http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/3/30/1398022/washington-wizards-sign-cedric">Scott Schroeder broke the news</a> at Ridiculous Upside that Cedric Jackson is headed back to the NBA for the third time this season. His newest team is the Washington Wizards.<br /><br />After playing out two 10-day contracts after a call-up by Erie's affiliate, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jackson was more recently called up by the San Antonio Spurs where he spent another 10-day contract. He didn't receive <a href="http://www.nba.com/playerfile/cedric_jackson/index.html">a whole lot of playing time</a> in either stop, but he did have the opportunity to team with the likes of LeBron James, Shaquille O'Neal, and Tim Ducan, not to mention learn from the coaching staffs of two of the league's premiere franchises.<br /><br />Unlike Cleveland and San Antonio, Washington is not a championship contender. Heck, they're not even sniffing the playoffs. They spent this season breaking up the core of their team after the Gilbert Arenas incident. That's good and bad for Jackson. The bad is that there aren't as many people in place to learn from with the Wizards. The good news is, Washington is a place where he could actually play this season or, at least, a place where he could latch on for a longer-than-10-day future.<br /><br />I spoke at length with ProjectSpurs.com when Jackson was brought in by San Antonio, and not much has changed about his game or my opinion of him since then. Listen to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0KlGvmHtBA">part one</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoMolWlR-lI">part two</a> of my interview for more on what Jackson brings to the table.<br /><br />There are only two weeks left in the NBA season, so I'm not sure how great of an impact Jackson can make now, but if Washington holds onto his rights, they can get a better look at him over the summer, bring him into camp, and maybe find him a spot on the roster at the start of next season.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-39761605132476206592010-03-29T11:19:00.003-04:002010-03-29T11:45:38.330-04:00Weekend Games Review: Fort Wayne Mad Ants vs. Erie BayHawksThe Fort Wayne Mad Ants and Erie BayHawks finished their 10-game season series this weekend. Erie won Friday's meeting 95-82, but Fort Wayne claimed the series finale on Sunday, 114-110, to win the season series 6-4.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Highlights from Friday:</span><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/MuwGfOdpeO8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/MuwGfOdpeO8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Highlights from Sunday:</span><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FzS-MCKaugM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FzS-MCKaugM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br />Both teams have been eliminated from playoff contention and currently sit fifth and sixth in the East Conference, respectively. Fort Wayne is 19-28. Next they have two games at Springfield before finishing the season at Maine on Friday. Erie hosts Springfield on Friday before also finishing the season out at Maine on Saturday, a game that will also be shown on Versus.<br /><br />There's not a whole lot to take from this weekend other than the fact that the BayHawks continue to be plagued by inconsistency.<br /><br />Jackie Manuel looked good, scoring 22 and 20 points, respectively, but the team missed the shooting presence of Mike Gansey.<br /><br />Neither Michael Sweetney nor John Bryant had much of an impact on the two games.<br /><br />Blake Ahearn thrived with 29 points in Friday's win, and Cedric Jackson starred with 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists in Sunday's loss. Unfortunately, both players seem more comfortable playing with the ball in their hand, which neutralizes their effectiveness when they play together in the backcourt.<br /><br />I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the performances of the former BayHawks in Friday's win for Fort Wayne. Oliver Lafayette torched Erie for 33 points and 8 assists (with 4 turnovers). He also hit a clutch jumper over the outstretched arms of Jackie Manuel with 44 seconds left to put the Mad Ants up 3 after Cedric Jackson had cut the lead to 1.<br /><br />After Jackson scored again to cut it to one, Erie nearly stole the ball. But after a scramble for the loose ball, Rod Wilmont drained a 3 with 8.3 seconds left to put Fort Wayne up 4. Wilmont, who was one of the final preseason cuts by the BayHawks along with Wilmont, scored 16 points and added 8 rebounds for the Mad Ants. After Wilmont's 3, Michael Sweetney scored a quick bucket to trim the deficit back to 2. Erie fouled Lafayette, and he responded by calmly sinking two free throws to ice the game for Fort Wayne.<br /><br />Short of a playoff berth, this had to be a great feeling for Lafayette and Wilmont to finish out the season with clutch performances against the team that let them loose to start the season.<br /><br />For Erie, it was another in a long line of tough/disappointing losses on the season. The BayHawks are now just 9-15 at home this season with one home game remaining. That game comes against Springfield, the team with the worst record in the D-League. However, before Erie starts chalking up a victory, they should remember that the Armor did claim one of their seven wins against the BayHawks earlier this season.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9070116247506861838.post-58905478659224328712010-03-25T15:02:00.002-04:002010-03-25T15:19:14.296-04:00Game Review: Fort Wayne Mad Ants 90, Erie BayHawks 86OK, so this is pretty skimpy as far as my reviews go, but I'm pressed for time, I didn't get to watch any of the game, and the BayHawks lost (again). Still, it's better than nothing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Five sentence recap: </span>Fort Wayne scored only 10 points in the first quarter. Following a Mad Ants comeback, the BayHawks rebuilt their lead to as much as 10 with just eight minutes left. The Mad Ants won the star player battle. Rob Kurz scored a team-high 23 points and added 15 rebounds to lead Fort Wayne. Cedric Jackson had 23 points for Erie, but he missed two shots in the final minute that would've given Erie the lead, and had 6 turnovers to go along with just 6 assists.<br /><br /><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YaT91GzMmOk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YaT91GzMmOk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Player notes</span><br /><ul><li>Jackie Manuel started at small forward after missing the past three games for family reasons. He scored 8 points on 3-8 shooting in 39 minutes.<br /></li><li>Mike Gansey missed the game with an illness and remains questionable for this weekend's games against Fort Wayne.</li><li>Aside from Jackson, Blake Ahearn and Ivan Harris were the only other BayHawks in double figures.</li></ul>Erie's 86 points were the lowest the team had scored in more than a month and the first time the team hadn't eclipsed the 100-point mark in March. With the loss, the BayHawks fall to 18-28, half a game behind the Mad Ants (18-27). Fort Wayne now leads the season series 5-3 with two games remaining. Those games are the next two on the schedule with the Mad Ants and BayHawks meeting in Erie again tomorrow night at 7 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For full blog content, please visit eriebayhawks.blogspot.com</div>Matt Huberthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03476377423759121203noreply@blogger.com0