This past weekend Centrecourt hosted its sixth annual summer run, HOOPFEST TWENTY TEN and it was an event of many firsts.  After five years of calling Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary home, the tournament moved on up like George and Weezy to the penthouse that is the Langley Events Centre.  Running twenty four games over the course of two days on two courts, HOOPFEST TWENTY TEN welcomed ten teams and a combination of over three hundred people through the doors during the hot August weekend.

With an eclectic mix of fresh faced rookies and cagey veterans, the tournament featured such notable names as Brent Malish and Kamar Burke (Birds), Roopi Clair (NWO), Jacob Doerksen (The School), Joey Haywood and Nick Toews (Runnin’ Rebels), Gurj Jhaj and Aman Heran (Athelite), Richard Anderson and Matt Rachar (Assault) and Kyle Grewal (Herbalex).  While many of those names have been around the summer circuit for a few years, one player that stepped into the spotlight in a huge way and will most certainly use his play during the tournament was The School’s Tonner Jackson.  The 6’7” hybrid from Trinity Western University teamed up with the tournament’s MVP Jacob Doerksen to help lead The School back to the winners circle after a one year hiatus.  Rewinding back to 2004 and the run that Doerksen had in his first year of the HOOPFEST tournament mirrored that of the weekend Jackson put together as both players gave little appearance of being out of place against a number of older and more experienced players.  Filling the stat sheet with thirty points a game in their semi final meeting with Athelite and the championship game, Jackson gave his running mate a battle for the MVP crown.

Sunday afternoon’s semi finals featured the top four teams in the tournament, with one court hosting The Birds (4-0) against the Runnin’ Rebels (3-1) while The School (4-0) squared off against Athelite (2-2).  Holding a 57-39 halftime lead, the Rebels knew better than to look ahead to the championship game, as The Birds launched themselves back into the game with a 12-0 run early in the second half.  Hitting for 20 of his team high 29 points in the second half, Haywood put the Rebels into a position to claim their second straight championship.  The other semi final broke down to a two on two battle between Athelite and The School as Jackson and Doerksen teamed up against the backcourt duo of Heran and Jhaj.  Hitting for 66 of the team total 91 points, Heran and Jhaj needed a bit more help from the other members of the Athelite squad to advance them to the title game, falling short by nine points in the end.  Jackson and Doerksen combined for a total 59 of the 100 School points.

After five gruelling games, HOOPFEST TWENTY TEN capped off with the only two teams ever to claim a championship as The School and Runnin’ Rebels took to the floor for their sixth game in forty eight hours.  Not only looking to silence the critics who place an asterisk next to their 2009 chip, the Rebels were seeking to gain redemption for a four point loss in the round robin schedule, a game which itself could have been title worthy.  Opening with a 17-6 lead, the Rebels looked to set the tone against their opponents from the Fraser Valley, knowing full well that at some point the deficit would be cut.  Little by little the double digit advantage was chipped away, slowly turning into a four point lead favouring The School, 44-40.  At that point it was like the Rebels whole weekend came to a crashing halt, as a lid was put on their basket, defensive assignments were missed and their pilot (Haywood) fell into severe foul trouble with four in the first half leading to a game changing 18-0 run that put all but one nail in the coffin for the Rebels.  Down twenty two points at halftime, the Rebels made one final comeback attempt, closing to within eleven points, but The School already had their sights set on the title as Doerksen and Jackson dropped thirty points apiece to pace The School’s scoring on route to a 116-91 title clenching victory, their fifth in six years.

HOOPFEST TWENTY TEN AWARDS

CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM ($350 Keg Gift Certificate & Ten Vancouver Giants Game Passes) – The School

HOOPFEST MVP ($125 Morgan Creek Keg Gift Certificate, “B-on-the-Ball” Souvenir Basketball, Bitmoreimage Canvas Print, Baden Elite Basketball, Baden Game Binder) – Jacob Doerksen (The School)

HOOPFEST ALL-STARS ($25 Morgan Creek Keg Gift Certificate, $10 Blockbuster Gift Certificate, Baden Elite Basketball, Baden Game Binder) – Tonner Jackson (The School). Joey Haywood and Nick Toews (Runnin’ Rebels), Brent Malish (Birds), Aman Heran (Athelite)

HOOPFEST Honorable Mention All-Star (Fitness World VIP Pass) – Kyle Grewal (Herbalex)

Player of the Game Awards (McDonalds Meal Certificate)

Team Packages provided by Langley Jugo Juice and UBC Thunderbirds

HOOPFEST TWENTY TEN PARTICIPATING TEAMS:  The School, Runnin’ Rebels, Birds, Athelite, Herbalex, Assault, Vancouver United, NWO, Bearcats, Monstars

On Thursday evening, the lives of 60 young “hoop dreamers” will be altered forever. And while some will receive a guaranteed cheque in an amount worthy of one similar to the oversized 6-49 lottery cheques, others will be selected by teams late in the evening and even then still have to prove their worth. From recent busts like Olowokandi, Darko and Kwame to second round gems such as Manu, Agent Zero and Rashard Lewis, who was cemented in the green room in tears as thirty one teams passed him by, the NBA Draft will open up new chapters to the lives of many. As fans eagerly await the “kingpin” of the NBA to take to the mic and announce, “With the number one pick, the Washington Wizards select…..”, the balance of the league may once again change for better or worse with the addition of one of these professional hopefuls. And while for the most part, as with last year, the number one pick has pretty much been in the bag since the end of March Madness, the anticipation of the other 59 individuals and fans league wide remains. So without further adieu, I bring to you my breakdown of tonight’s events from 1-13 (and minus the ever popular “WE HAVE A TRADE!”)

1 – WASHINGTON WIZARDS: JOHN WALL
As with Blake Griffen last year, Wall was tabbed as the first pick even before he declared. Hopefully that is as far as the similarities will go in terms of their first year (Blake will officially still be a rookie this year!). Wall’s arrival in DC will move Arenas over to the two, where he feel free to shoot as much as he wants without worry of shunning his teammates. With Wall running the show, look for Mike Miller to slide to the three spot and for young big man JaVale McGee to have a career year.

2- PHILADELPHIA 76′ers: EVAN TURNER
The Sixers are an enjoyable mess. They have Lou Williams and Jrue Holiday at point, both of which can start. They have AI versions one and two at the two spot (all reports point to Iverson wanting to make another comeback), Thad Young mans the small forward spot, while big money no show Brand holds down the paint with Speights and newly acquired Spencer Hawes. So where does that place Turner? As the second best player in the draft, the Sixers have to take him and hope that they can either trade Brand or play him at the pivot position as he did during his early years in Chicago. Turner has the size and ability to play either the two or three spot and should pay dividends for the team either way.

3 – NEW JERSEY NETS: WESLEY JOHNSON
The Nets are in need of a couple of pieces to help complete the puzzle of their promising young team. While both forward positions are lacking star power, this summers free agent crop is full of talent at the four spot. IF the Nets do decide to go big, look for them to pick up Derrick Favors and then try to grab a Matt Barnes or Josh Howard off the market. In the mold of a Phoenix Suns Shawn Marion, Johnson has the ability to finish in the open court with flash, but unlike Marion, his jumper has a lot more finesse and grace.

4 – MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES: DERRICK FAVORS
The T-pups are a mess. After last years drafting of two pg’s AND picking up Ramon Sessions it is clear that some purple haze is floating around the front office. If Johnson goes to the Nets, look for ‘Sota to take Favors and vice versa. Picking up Favors gives the Wolves a log jam of big men, as Kevin Love and Al Jefferson already occupy the paint. Although you could attempt to slide Favors to the three spot periodically, look for Jefferson to be placed on the trade block in order to bring in a shooter or small forward.

* In a perfect utopia, the Nets would select Favors and the Wolves take Johnson.

5 – SACRAMENTO KINGS: DeMARCUS COUSINS
While watching Cousins and Nellie battle it out in the “Yay” (a’la Cwebb) would make for amusing conversation and tabloid type news, Cousins would fit nicely with the Kings and make a great pick n roll combo with Ty Evans. The addition of Sammy D at the five will allow the trio of Cousins, Dalembert and Jason Thompson to interchange between the pivot and high post and create a wall on the defensive end.
* Cousins is also my pick to wear the suit of the night, although nothing will ever top my man Jalen Rose’s pin stripe attire*

6 – GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS: GREG MONROE
Aside from the Nets/Wolves issue, everything at this point in my draft seems to be fitting into place nicely. Monroe gives the Warriors fresh legs at the five spot and also an offensive threat, something they currently lack with Biedrins and Turiaf. With a great set of hands and passing ability (reminds me of Vlade Divac, minus the 5 o’clock shadow and the cigarette hanging out of his mouth), the Warriors may find themselves only one player away (Anthony Randolph?) from heading back to the playoffs……in two years.

7 – DETROIT PISTONS: EKPE UDOH
The Pistons are rebuilding and the first place they need to start is in the paint. Udoh may not be the household name that fans are hoping for, but at 6’10 with a 7 foot plus wingspan, chances are more than a few shots will be altered next season. A Ben Wallace clone sans fro, Udoh will have the ability to learn from Wallace what it takes to get the job done on the glass, which shouldn’t be a problem after averaging 10 boards for Baylor this year. The only downside to Udoh’s game is that it resembles Wallace’s offensive inabilities as well.

8 – LA CLIPPERS: GORDON HAYWARD
Maybe it is just me but the Clippers don’t really need to find a starter out of this draft. With B.Davis and Eric Gordon in the backcourt and Travis Outlaw, Blake Griff and Hulk Hogan in the frontcourt, they put out a pretty solid lineup. What they really need out of this draft is depth and a frontcourt shooter……enter Hayward. At 6’9, Hayward will provide the Clips with a great outside threat that has been missing since the departure of the Polish Rifle.

9 – UTAH JAZZ: AL-FAROUQ AMINU
Chances are Boozer and the Jazz will be ending their relationship this summer, which will push Paul Milsap into the starting four spot, and while Okur has given the Jazz a unique big man who prefers to step out to the three spot, size is a necessity for the Jazz and Aminu fits what Sloan is looking for. Able to play both the forward spots, the Jazz can go small with Aminu at the four and move Milsap to the five in order to run with the rest of the West.

10 – INDIANA PACERS: XAVIER HENRY
The Pacers backcourt is a mess, and without much depth at the point in the 2010 draft, Indiana may as well fill at least one gap. There are a ton of forwards that can be had, but Granger, Murph and Hibbert have those three spots locked down. Henry has the size and strength to be the Pacers shooting guard of the future, despite not being the best at creating his own shot. A lockdown defender during his time as a Jayhawk, Henry’s 6’6, 220 frame will provide him with a NBA ready body.

11 – NEW ORLEANS HORNETS: PAUL GEORGE
The Hornets found a gem drafting Marcus Thornton last year, and are lacking at the small forward position, as Peja, MoPete and Julian Wright are more suitable coming off the bench. George will give the Hornets another component to run with Paul/Collison and Thornton. In the mold of Danny Granger (6’8, 220) George will give the Hornets what they need from a starting small forward in the ability to knock down the three ball and run the court on the break.

12 – MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES: AVERY BRADLEY
Yes, there are a lot more talented players still on the board, but many of them are better situated in the front court, a place which the Grizz have enough depth. The lead guard spot has yet to be locked down by Mike Conley and the addition of Bradley allows the Grizz to part with unused Marcus Williams and Mel Mel the Destroyer.

13 – TORONTO RAPTORS: ED DAVIS
Bosh is on his way out after seven years of not being able to lead the Raps to anything significant in the playoffs, the Raps bring in a Bosh clone in Davis. While Davis does not have the range that Bosh gave the team, he does have the ability to finish strong inside and provides the team with a shot blocking presence on the defensive end. The Raps team is in the crapper with their one superstar wanting out, and a high priced Euro bust on the books, so another year of rebuilding is in the works for Canada’s only NBA squad.

Capturing their first KOC title last year, the Riders returned looking to claim the tag of “back to back champions”, and they did so with a convincing 44-36 victory over the surprising 72nd St. Shooters.  After knocking off the top seeded BU team in the semi finals, the kids from 72nd St. fell behind early and although they managed to make the score respectable in the end, the Riders squad was just too strong and focused on defending their title.

While the Novi Sad junior team may have fell short to the BU juniors, the meeting between the senior teams flipped the script 54-49 in an exhilarating overtime classic.  Tied at forty-five after regulation, BU struggled to finish on the offensive end, with Novi Sad outscoring them 9-4 in the three minute overtime period.

The Jr. Consolation game pitted Novi Sad against the young inexperienced Basketball U squad, who although they had gone winless to this point, had made positive steps throughout the season.  Bursting out of the gate with a quick 12-0 lead, Basketball U continued to hold court for the duration, capturing their first victory of the season for a very well played 52-42 “W”.

CENTRECOURT proudly kicked off the 4th season of the KOC on May 6th with a couple of new faces and a slight makeover to the program. After three seasons in South Surrey, the league has taken to the road, hosted by Delview Secondary in North Delta on Thursday evenings, not the traditional double header Saturdays. With both the Junior and Senior Divisions welcoming a fresh set of hoopheads looking to improve their individual and team skills as we head into the summer season.

JUNIOR DIVISION RESULTS: The regular season was dominated by the Athelite team, who finished on top of the standings with an undefeated season, capped off by a convincing victory over Basketball U.  Heading into the final week, ND Reign and Novi Sad sat with identical 1-1 records and squared off in the last game of the schedule.  While the “W” gave the Reign the second overall seed, the two teams will once again face each other in the first round of the playoffs.  Basketball U, while posting a winless record this season, proved in their last game against Athelite that they can compete (as they closed the gap to within two points) and are primed to post an upset in their playoff matchup.

SENIOR DIVISION RESULTS: Basketball U may have overlooked their final regular season opponent, as the kids from 72nd Street gave the top seeded BU a run for their money.  Despite the close game, BU ran the schedule and are looking primed to return to the title round.  The Riders, who dropped their only game to BU have shown constant signs of improvement and hinted at picking up the full court “D” throughout the playoffs.  Novi Sad has fallen short of expectations this season, but if the team can come together as a unit, they may be able to sneak into the championship game.  Although they are sitting without a regular season victory, the 72nd St. Shooters have given all their opponents a battle and with although they are not favored to win their first round matchup, a victory would not be that much of a surprise.

EASTERN CONFERENCE
(Round 1 Predictions = 4 correct teams, 1 correct series total)

Cavs vs. Celtics = Cavs in 7
In the battle of “That was then, this is now”, the Cavs are channeling the pre championship Bulls who just could not get over the hump, despite having Jordan. For the past three years the Cavs have been listed as one of the contenders for the title, yet have fallen short. The Celtics of course won the chip two years ago, but injuries and Father Time have jumped on the Shamrock faster than expected…..but that isn’t an excuse for Rashweed to play like a bag of dirty diapers. Lebron is on a mission this year (as commanded by David Stern) to get to the title game, the Celtics have one final opportunity before their window completely closes and they rebuild around Rondo.

Magic vs. Hawks = Magic in 6
The Magic went to the top of the mountain last year after knocking off the favored Cavs, and this year they once again have taken a back seat to the team from Ohio. This will be a battle of two similar teams, as both love to run the floor and launch the longball. Athleticism should be at a premium in this series as Smith, Crawford, Williams and Johnson can attack you in a variety of ways (just keep JSmoove away from the three point line), while Carter, Lewis, Pietrus and Howard will have no problem matching their opponent move for move. After sticking with the Hawks as they built their roster from a pretender to contender, Joe Johnson needs to get out of his first round funk in order for the Hawks to have a chance.

WESTERN CONFERENCE
Round 1 Predictions = 2 correct teams, 2 correct series)

Lakers vs. Jazz = Lakers in 6
People laughed and mocked the Purple and Gold when they dropped two games to OKC and struggled to drop the hammer in three of the other four. OKC is a team on the rise, and the Lakers at this point are not a team meant for the run and gun. The Jazz surprised most with a series over the Nuggets, but will struggle to match the Lakers inside game, especially with the loss of AK47 and Okur. D. Williams will have a field day with Fisher, that should not come as a surprise to anyone who has witnessed the Lakers lead guard struggle to keep up with the quicker pg’s in the league. With the Lakers holding such a size advantage in the paint, Kobe doesn’t have to dominate in this series as he may have or had to in others, which will serve better for the Lakers down the road.

Suns vs. Spurs = Suns in 6
This is a series about redemption for one team and potentially one last kick at the can for both. With a couple of aging but can still get it done superstars in TD and Nash, both the Spurs and Suns exceeded expectations since the start of the season. The Spurs will struggle trying to keep up with the Phoenix tempo, while the Suns will have their hands full with the battle tested team from the Alamo. Look for the Suns to take the series in six and kickstart the Tim Duncan retirement tour.

EASTERN CONFERENCE ROUND 1

Cavs vs. Bulls = Cavs 5
The Bulls squeaked into the playoffs by a single game (thanks in large part to CB4′s blown layup against GSW!) and while they have nothing to lose and everything to gain, they just don’t have the horses to keep up with the Cavs. Derek Rose will put up a solid series of numbers and the Varejao/Noah battle of bad hair and ugly mugs will be epic, but in the end the Bulls have a former Dukie on their roster and that as we all know leads to failure in the NBA.

Celtics vs. Heat = Celtics 7
Depending on which basket Rasheed decides to shoot on, this series could go either way, but i would like to think that the Celts have at least one series left in them. Built for a championship two years ago, the aging, injuries and ego have all taken their toll on Boston. If the Heat has any hope of winning, DWade is going to have to drop 35+ each night, as aside from BEasy, he really doesn’t have much help…….yet.

Magic vs. Bobcats = Magic 5
The man in the middle will dominate this series for the Magic, as D12 will have his way in the paint. Even Gortat will give the Bobcats big men some problems. And when the ball doesn’t go inside, the three ball will also favor the team from Orlando. Charlotte will be looking to impress their new owner and that motivation might be enough to steal a game at home, but nothing more.

Hawks vs. Bucks = Hawks 6
At the beginning of the season, few believed “Young Money” could thrive in the “L” after his one year stint across the pond. And even more fans had the Bucks penciled in for the lottery draft, rather than the post season. However Jennings and his “ROY” season has brought the Bucks back to the playoffs for the first time since 2006. The Hawks were my “dark horse” team to follow at the start of the season and the addition of Jamal Crawford made them even more enjoyable to watch. This series will be the most exciting and competitive in the Eastern Conference first round, but in the end the Hawks have too much firepower for the young Bucks.

WESTERN CONFERENCE ROUND 1

Lakers vs. Thunder = Lakers 5
Mind games and experience will give the Lakers a victory before the series even starts, and having Kobe will guarantee one more. However the other two “W’s” will be hard fought battles for the Purple and Gold. Look for KD to push his name into the spotlight even more during this series as ABC and TNT adore the underdog hero. The Thunder will grab one at home and will force Buss and Kupchak to reassess their point guard situation in July.

Nuggets vs. Jazz = Nuggets 6
This series is going to come down to the battle between Earl Smith and Kyle Korver. Yes, the respective stars will have an impact but ultimately it will be the role players who will decide the series. Smith can go 1-12 and then drop four straight bombs, while Korver is less flashy but a bit more steady. The Nuggets will be playing for Uncle George, who should be back for the second round, while the Jazz may still be impacted by Boozer (another Dukie) who has already expressed his desire to relocate (then said no, then yes, then no).

Mavs vs. Spurs = Mavs 7
This may be the most competitive series in round one of the Wild West. Counting out TD, Manu and Pop would not be wise, regardless of their seventh seed. The Mavs loaded up their roster with the addition of Butler and Haywood, who have helped give Dallas the depth that they need to get by the veteran Spurs. The Diggler has yet to make up for that horrendous Finals series of 2006, and this might be his best chance yet.

Suns vs. Blazers = Suns 6
Having Nash totally makes up for having a Dukie on the roster, and Amare apparently has not been affected in a negative manner by not being moved by the trade deadline. They may not be running under seven seconds, but ten to thirteen and a stronger focus on defense has led the Suns to a great regular season and primed for a strong playoff run. Further west, the Blazers have been not just bitten, but more like totally devoured by the injury bug, to the point in which they should just be playing in protective bubbles. The loss of BRoy for two weeks opens up minutes for Webster, Rudy and Bayless, but without their main man, the chance of me heading down to the Rose Garden to see a Lakers/Blazers game is pretty much out the window.

About twelve years ago at Vancouver’s Kits Beach courts, I had the opportunity to meet an energetic, tempo pushing point guard named Joey “King Handles” Haywood. Although younger and smaller than anyone on the court, King Handles had a blend of confidence and arrogance that would serve him well throughout his future. Inspired by his older brother Gary and a ball handling wizard from volume 1 of the AND1 mixtape series by the name of Skip To My Lou, Haywood learned to play the game with a passion and flare. After trailblazing through the US and Japan as part of NOTIC, AND1 and YPA ball crews during the early part of the decade, I recently had the chance to catch up with the BC point guard who is currently averaging 25ppg and 6apg in approximately 37 minutes of floor time for the Saint Mary’s Huskies.

Fast forwarding to his rookie year at Langara College, a young Handles found himself in a different type of hoops battle, as his style and attitude clashed with his coach. Leaving the program halfway through the season, because of the conflict, Haywood looks back now and believes that everything happened for a reason, one which lead him to the opportunity to grow as a person and travel the world, learning about different people and cultures that would have an impact on who is he today.

SL – Hitting the streetball scene at an early age, you created quite a stir for a city that wasn’t ready for that style. Why was the streetball game not as accepted in Vancouver as it was in the US and overseas?

JH – It wasn’t accepted in masses right away. The younger crowd enjoyed it, but the older guys kept wanting us to stick to the fundamentals. HOOP IT UP gave us a big crowd, whether they liked us or not, we still got a crowd, which in the end gave us our name and status in the city. Vancouver wasn’t ready for us at the time, which was too bad because we (NOTIC) were a group of kids trying to stay out of trouble and just do our own thing with basketball. It was funny because while we had a large following of youth and young adults cheering us on for our tricks, at the same time we had people trying to knock us down because we weren’t fundamental enough for them. Unfortunately most of the guys don’t play a lot of ball anymore, but it was crazy while it lasted, we were celebrities to some people, doing more than what other kids our ages were doing. It was cool, but some of the Notic crew didn’t really grow from it basketball wise. Vancouver is more of a fundamental basketball culture and it was a huge change that we brought to the city.

It was the same streetball fame that brought a cloud of darkness to the young pg’s “kingdom” as comments were made in a SLAM magazine piece, outlining his feelings on the streetball circuit, basketball race and how the game was viewed in Vancouver. Looking back on the article now, Haywood admits that he was just really mad at basketball in general and the city he lived in. Despite all his hard work and efforts, he felt that his style wasn’t accepted by the coaches and fans. After trying out for numerous “elite” and “provincial” teams and in his opinion not only handling (excuse the pun) his own, but dominating others, he was left off rosters.

Being a self described “hothead”, Haywood looks back at the fact that a number of people offered to help him on his basketball path, but never came through with their promises, leaving him to create something of himself on his own. In his early twenty’s Haywood started to understand the importance of increasing his fundamental skills, but as a 17-18 year old, some positive direction would have been appreciated. Although as he says “he did not intend to piss anyone off with the article”, even today Haywood doesn’t really regret stating his opinion as he, like many, believe that things happen for a reason and that maybe if he didn’t speak his mind at the time, it wouldn’t have opened not only other people’s eyes towards him, but more importantly his eyes towards what would be best for his future.

Taking advantage of the both the moment and his abilities, King Handles hit the larger scale streetball circuit with the YPA and AND1, along with a tour of Japan. Brought over by the P-Players crew, the different opportunity to check out different cultures and talent was something too good to pass up, and something that may not have been available had he not left Langara. In an environment described as far more advanced than North America, be it through academics, technology and what was even more surprising on the basketball scene with players laced head to toe in all the freshest gear.

SL – Did you ever see yourself playing a starting (and staring) role for a university team, averaging 25ppg and 5 apg, after your struggles at Langara?

JH – Honestly, I didn’t think that it would happen, but because I didn’t see a financial future with the streetball circuit, I needed to make a decision. AND1 wanted me to sign in 2008, but I really wanted to go to school and get my future set. Whether I have a future with basketball professionally down the road or not, I needed to make sure that I had something to fall back on for myself and my family. It’s funny though because right now I’m doing some of the same things that I was at Langara, just on a smaller scale. I am still playing with the same energy and passion, from time to time you might see a couple of quick crosses, but this time I’m nailing the jumper, whereas before sometimes people thought I just wanted to clown someone.

Over the past couple of years, Haywood has parlayed his talent and opportunity at St. Mary’s into becoming one of the country’s elite floor generals and would like to pursue his goal of playing at the professional level, however this time around he knows that there is still some work left to do. I asked Joey to give his thoughts on some of the doors that may have been opened to him.

Overseas – If the money was right, I might go, but it would need to be a situation that would help me be financially secure for a while. I could go back to school after I am finished or take summer courses, but if it wasn’t something that would give me security, I would rather finish my time here at St. Mary’s and get my psychology degree.

Globetrotters – I don’t know about joining the Globetrotters, they are cool and everything, but I want to move on completely from the streetball style to play legit, professional ball. The Trotters are a great squad, but that time has passed me.

Canadian National Team – Any opportunity to play for my country is a good thing. I had a chance once in 2008, but at the time my focus was elsewhere. Again, I don’t regret it, but if I am given another opportunity, I will definitely not pass it up. It is one of the reasons why I went back to school. It certainly help me get some exposure for my game to the professional leagues, as well as helping the team get to that next level. As of now I haven’t heard anything official from Team Canada, but I did have a chance to speak with the team from Trinidad and Tobago, which I would love to go play for if I can’t get on with the Canadian program. It would be an honor to represent for my parents home country.

While many hoop fans were introduced to “King Handles”, few have met Joey Haywood. Although focused on his future, Haywood has not forgotten his past or what has gotten him to this point. ” It’s a new Joey Haywood, I think King Handles is the old me, and while you might see a glimpse of him every now and then, I have a better understanding of what it takes for me and my team to be successful”. ” I want people to see me for the all the hard work that I have put in and that I am proving that I can do more than just streetball”. About five or six years ago, one might have walked into Bonsor Community Centre, or strolled along Kits Beach, and found Haywood working on tricks to better his chances of getting on with YPA or AND1, but over the past couple of years, Haywood has traded those tricks in and has focused on working on knocking down pull ups and three pointers on a consistent basis. “I don’t think I’m satisfied with where I am at right now, I don’t think that I am ever really going to be satisfied with my game”. While many have spoken those same words, few have worked as hard to change their game and live up to the statement.

During that one sunny day at Kits Beach, I met “King Handles” and over time I watched him from a distance, at times baffled by some of his decisions, but a fan of his ability. Last year, I had the honor of playing with the man, the myth, the legend, however this time it wasn’t “King Handles”…..this time I was introduced to Joey Haywood.

2009-2010 WCBL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

FALCONS 87 vs. RUNNIN’ REBELS 74

On Wednesday evening, the Runnin’ Rebels managed to hold 7/8ths of the Falcons lineup to 32 points over the course of the forty minute WCBL Championship game.  The 1/8th that they didn’t contain dropped in a title game record 55 points, as Aman Heran led his squad to their third straight championship and fourth in five years.  Grabbing a fourteen point lead early in the first half, the Falcons managed to contain the Rebels offense with a strategic 3-2 zone, however once the Rebels started to break the defense the score was cut in half before the teams entered the break with the defending champs holding a 39-31 lead.

Closing the difference to within four at about the thirteen minute mark of the second half, the Rebels offensive consistency was similar to that of a Brett Farve retirement.  Just as quickly as they tightened the gap, the Falcons (read, Heran) pulled it back in their favor.  With the scoreclock hitting single digit minutes, the Rebels once again were but a point away from taking control of the game as Nick Lafleur hit back to back threes.  Four straight Falcon three pointers later the double digit lead was once again intact.  With less than two minutes left on the board, the Rebels were already mentally defeated as the Falcons snuffed out any chance for a desperation comeback attempt, holding on for the 87-74 victory. Heran’s record 55 points included twelve three pointers, while Pardeep Sunner and Dalbir Dosanjh were the only other Falcon members to hit for double digits with 12 and 11 respectively.  Lafleur led the Rebels offense with Mio Kovacevic and Steve Lee chipped in with 13 points apiece.  The Falcons victory puts them in company with the Meralomas as the only two teams to have their name etched in four WCBL titles, and along with the Nielsen Golgis as three-peat champions.

On behalf of all the participants of the 2009-10 season, a special thanks goes out to the game officials and the Southridge student scorekeepers for all their time and effort, to Delview Secondary for once again providing the home court for the WCBL, to the administrative and custodial staff at Delta School Board Facility Rentals and to the generous CENTRECOURT program sponsors for providing the Championship and Individual Awards.

AWARDS: (Individual awards are based upon nomination from league participants)

2009-2010 WCBL CHAMPIONS: Falcons ($400 Keg Gift Certificate)

2009-2010 WCBL MVP: Randy Nohr, Nielsen Golgis ($125 SportChek Gift Certificate, $50 Morgan Creek Keg Steakhouse Gift Certificate, Baden Official WCBL Game Ball, Nike Shorts and Shirt, K1X Sling Bag, Gatorade Water Bottle)

2009-2010 WCBL ALL-STARS: Andy Khaira, Falcons; Neb Aleksic, Runnin’ Rebels, Steve Lee, Runnin’ Rebels; Jason Leslie, Nielsen Golgis; Hunter Jordan, Nevermore ($25 Morgan Creek Keg Steakhouse Gift Certificate, $25 SportChek Gift Certificate, $25 Cineplex Gift Certificate, Baden Official WCBL Game Ball, Nike Shorts and Shirt, K1X Sling Bag, Gatorade Water Bottle)

2009-2010 WCBL MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: Randip Singh, Assault (Baden Official WCBL Game Ball, K1X Sling Bag, Nike Shirt, Gatorade Water Bottle)

2009-2010 WCBL LEADING SCORER: Randy Nohr, Nielsen Golgis 33.0 ppg ($25 Morgan Creek Keg Steakhouse Gift Certificate)

With three convincing victories over Nevermore in their back pockets, it was assumed that a fourth would come along on Sunday morning for the Runnin’ Rebels in first game of the WCBL Semi-Final weekend.  Trading baskets for the first three minutes, the Rebels showed early signs of rust after having a two week hiatus since their last game, whereas Nevermore appeared confident and well balanced in their attack.  Breaking the ten point deadlock with a 16-6 run, Nevermore created a ten point buffer for themselves and extended to a thirteen point halftime lead.  Frustration boiled over for the Rebels as the deficit mounted to as many as twenty-six points midway through the final twenty minutes.  After a poor start and a struggle for almost thirty minutes not only with their opponent, but with themselves, the Rebels managed to get on the same page and picked up the intensity with a full court press that baffled Nevermore.  With an incredible 32-10 run, the Rebels tied the game at 83 points, before closing the match out and completing an amazing comeback effort, 91-85.  With only five active members, all of which hitting for double digits, the Rebels return to the championship game for the first time since the 2000-01 season.  Steve Lee and Mio Kovacevic led the Rebels offense with 31 and 25 points respectively and combined for 19 rebounds.  Hunter Jordan and Jim Taylor finished off their impressive rookie season’s with 19 points apiece to go along with 14 points from both Dexter McKnight and Tom Selak.

Redemption.  That was the sole goal on the minds of many of the Nielsen Golgis in their Semi-Final meeting with the Falcons, a team that defeated the Golgis 106-102 in the 08/09 WCBL Championship Game.  Jumping out to a controlling 12-2 run to start the game, the Golgis were able to attack the Falcons in transition and from the free throw line, during a first half in which both teams were in desperate need for a secondary scoring source.  Highlighted by another battle between two of BC’s finest pg’s, the Golgis Randy Nohr and Aman Heran added another chapter to their epic battles.  With 24 first half points, Nohr led the Golgis to a slight 40-37 advantage at the break, while Heran countered with 13 points.  The script flipped in the second half as the Falcons used a 16-10 run to gain their first lead of the game 53-50 before the two teams see-sawed the scoreboard back and forth for the remainder of the second half.  Just as the Falcons chased the Golgis towards the end of the first, the Golgis found themselves down six with under two minutes on the clock.  A trio of free throws and a basket latter, the Golgis were able to close the game to within a single point before falling short 76-75.  Whereas Nohr was on fire in the first half, he cooled in the second hitting 14 of his team high 38 points, while Heran returned the first half favor with 25 second half points to match the 38 point effort.  Dalbir Dosanjh and Jason Leslie provided that required secondary scoring role with 16 points and 2 blocks for the Falcons forward and 11 points, 13 boards for the Golgis big man.

WCBL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

MARCH 17th 7:30pm – (2) Runnin’ Rebels vs. (5) Falcons

Regular Season:  Runnin’ Rebels 14-3, Falcons 8-9 (seeding based on defaults)

Head to Head:  Runnin’ Rebels 4-0

Preview – The semi-final games proved that the head to head regular season has very little impact on the result of a do or die playoff game as the Rebels needed a spectacular comeback and the Falcons upset the number one seed.  Both teams have the ability to work the ball inside, or hit from deep for a three ball, so it will come down to defense and a lot of what if’s.  The Rebels will need to keep their composure and consistency, while making sure that there is a hand up on the Falcons guards once they cross the halfcourt line.  On the other hand, the Falcons will need to control the boards and have someone step up to provide an inside scoring source to counter the Rebels inside attack.  After a long season, fatigue, injuries and mental errors have started to take their toll, but all will have to be put aside for forty more minutes on Wednesday evening as the Falcons look to “threepeat” (thanks Mr. Riley) and join the Golgis and Meralomas as four time champs, while the Rebels (Planet Fitness 98-01), who have been to the final three times, hope to stake their claim as the WCBL Champions.