International Basketball Championship 31 (IC Thread)

by **Kohnhead** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 9:46 am

Kohnhead suffer a hard fought loss against world number 3 in Quebec

The Royal Kingdom of Quebec, the reigning bronze medalists at the 30th International Basketball Championship were the first team we had to play this tournament. While many expected us to get blown out or fail to keep it competitive as the 41st ranked team we managed to keep it decently close, fighting hard while on the road in Quebec. The final score a 91-75 loss sums up the game pretty well actually as Kohnhead just couldn't keep pace with such a talented squad.

While Kohnhead always go with a mixed squad, Quebec who have both a men's and a women's team would send their women's starting V out first and they attempted to bully us both physically and mentally. While on their first possession Yim Se-Ryeong was successfully able to get Nicholls out of the way, Marilyn Molina did what she does best and put her body in the way to force Quebec out from under the basket where Nathalie D'Agostini missed a contested three point shot.

During the first quarter, defense was the name of the game and while the Quebec women's team is known for playing a very physical style and attempting to use their height to their advantage it was very scrappy to say the least. However a couple of clutch shots from Darren Summers including a fadeaway three as the shot clock expired gave us a very surprising one point lead 19-18 heading into the second quarter. For us Summers had been the best player offensively with 10 points and two assists while Francis McCall had a poor quarter with three turnovers and only two points. Heo Myeong-Yoon had done a very good job locking up McCall.

While Summers had done a very good job offensively, he had done less well on the defensive side of the ball with Hazel Hanson-Conavacio beating him multiple times to put up eight points in the quarter leading all RKQ players. Audrey Nicholls not known for her defense along with Marilyn Molina (as expected) had done a very good job limiting the frontcourt of Yim Se-Ryeong and Yi Hye-Ryeong from doing too much damage only getting a combined six points. And while they had yet to capitalize off of the many offensive rebounds they were getting, it would only be a matter of time before Quebec started hitting the second chance points.

In the second quarter it would be the men's starting V who we had to go up against and what had worked in the first quarter would be very difficult to replicate against a very different side. While we would keep the same hard fought style of play we had sustained in the first quarter, Quebec would try to up the tempo against us leading to a very different quarter as more scoring occured. We'd try to keep pace with Joseph King and Patrick Ali out there as part of the second unit but near the end of the first half they'd go on a run and never look back.

With 2:02 remaining in the half, Taylor Emerson would put up a three for us and it would go in off of a brilliant Sammy Winters pass. This would make the game 39-37 in favor of the opposition as we had been playing a very good game of basketball so far. Quebec would respond with a run that completely changed the course of the game and it started with a corner three from Bahng Se-Woong, a backup point guard. A missed shot from Nicholls along with baseline would give the ball back and while a quick transition three from Ben Rawlyk bounced out, the rebound from Matthieu Kabengele and ensuing and 1 play as he was fouled by Parker Moon would bring the run up to 6-0 Quebec and make the score 45-37 a very different ballgame.

That wasn't it though as a Joseph King turnover and a jumper from Zamani Siwele would it an 8-0 run. After the timeout McCall would get fouled while shooting a deep 2 and go 2-2 from the line, Quebec wasn't finished yet scoring four more points in the half to make the score 51-39 heading into the half a very different game from the one two minutes earlier. This was very frusterating for us to know that we had been right in the match for most of the half and had played a very good game.

Any hopes of a resurgence in the third quarter were dispelled with the women's starters back in the game and playing some more stifling defense on us while we hit a decent amount of lucky threes we had no real shot of getting through to the paint with Yim Se-Ryeong and Yi Hye-Ryeong patrolling the inside and McCall not able to get by Heo Myeong-Yoon off of the drive. Sammy Winters had a very good quarter recording 11 of our 20 points to put us at 59 heading into the final quarter but the had managed 25 in the quarter to make it a 76-59 game.

While both sides put out their starters (the men's starters for Quebec) to start the final quarter with Kohnhead failing to pick up any ground in the first couple of minutes, the decision was made on both sides to pull the starters with the minutes dwindling. While the game hadn't been closely competitive since late in the first half we had managed to stick with a top three nation in the World on the road and had played a hard fought game.

McCall had practically disappeared for most of the game only putting up 7 points and we need her to play better in the future if we want to win games. Summers and Winters played the best offensively putting up a combined 43 points and while both had some struggles defensively they outperformed what was expected of them and picked up the slack left by McCall. Audrey Nicholls played well offensively and played above average on defense which is very good especially going up against a stacked frontcourt for half of the game, Molina was as good as advertised defensively and while offensively she somewhat disappeared that should have been expected.

On the bench unit, Joseph King and Patrick Ali provided the best sparks offensively with Ali getting 9 points and King picking up 6 assists in the game. King also was actually able to drive and get around defenders something McCall showed great hesitancy in doing for some reason. In our next match we take on unranked Crilland at home who are coming off of a 14 point loss to Vangaziland in their opener which was better than some expected them to do. Hopefully we manage to pull out the win building off some of the things we were able to do against Quebec. In the other game Chromatika whipped unranked East Lemyone 100-57 in a performance of sheer dominance and they look to be a squad to watch moving forward.

by **Graintfjall** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 9:47 am

Posted on the In Brief section of the GTV Sports website.

Less-than-super: Super Wolves flat in loss to HUElavia

by **Saint-Domingues** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 10:34 am

Most Likely To... with Eustace, David, and Mama
Q: Welcome to our video today. We've got Eustace Eustace Naudé, Mama Auclair, and David Bain here with us today to play a game of most likely to.

EN: Hello.

MA: Hi.

DB: Every answer will be Mama. *laughs*

Q: The first question before we start properly is going to be for Mama specifically. Mama, you've moved from the Corsairs to the Captains not too long ago now - how are you finding it? Are you missing your teammates?

MA: Why would I miss these guys? *laughs* Why, why?

DB: He's a big softie really. Get the camera off and he'll be bawling his eyes out and talking about how much he misses all the boys in Les Cayes!

MA: No, but in seriousness. When we were at the Corsairs together it was a really close group. We were all such good friends. They were the team I started my career at so I got to know so many of the guys as I got older. Moving away has felt like growing up, really. It's been a big learning experience and that was why I did want to move. Get out my comfort zone and improve myself as a player, it's all about setting new challenges.

DB: Fair.

Q: OK, let us begin. Who is the most likely to... miss a wide open layup?

EN: Me.

MA: Eustace.

DB: Mama.

MA: No way! I'm lethal.

DB: Yeah way! I remember when you did it twice in that game.

MA: Never happened. Never.

DB: It did, it was against the Chevaliers.

MA: No.

EN: I remember that too.

MA: Did not happen, next question.

Q: Who do you think is the most likely to... score from the edge of the court?

EN: Me.

MA: Me.

DB: Me!

*all three of them laugh*

Q: Very conclusive, we'll have to do that for a challenge. Who is the most to... score the most shots in 60 seconds?

EN: David.

MA: Me.

DB: Me.

EN: Mama, why are you looking at me like that?

MA: Because you know it would be me.

EN: You'd go too fast, you would just chuck them anywhere. David is more accurate.

DB: I am.

MA: Also wrong. And I am faster.

DB: Mama, you've lost this! Next question, next question.

Most Likely To... will continue with a part two soon!

by **Valladares** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 11:19 am

Team Valladares Roster
International Basketball Championships 31 - Team Info
Presented by the Valladar Basketball Association

About Valladar Basketball:

Basketball is Valladares' second most popular sport by number of players and registered clubs, behind association football which is the most popular sport by far. Even though there is such a massive gap between both in terms of exposure and marketing, basketball has slowly gained momentum, especially between the young population, and has started receiving more attention from both the media and sponsors, which has helped reduce that gap. The establishment and consolidation of the Liga Superior de Baloncesto as Valladares' professional basketball league has also helped to the growth of the sport in the nation as the league's top clubs have established the Valladar league as one of the leading basketball leagues in the multiverse with their outstanding international performances. The sport is overseen by the Valladar Basketball Association (Asociación Valladar de Baloncesto or AVB in Spanish), which is sending its national team to this IBC edition in the hopes that it will make a decent showing and will take a new step towards establishing Valladares as a powerhouse of international basketball, just like it is at club level already.

Team Nickname: Jaguares Azules (Blue Jaguars)
Coach: Daniel Toro (Age: 58)
Assistant Coach: Anthony Romero (Age: 57)

STARTERS:

PG: Lucas Souza (26, 6'4'') - #1 - Tigres de Chiquito
SG: Ronald Ríos (25, 6'4'') - #5 - Lanceros de Colón
SF: Robert Romano (27, 6'6'') - #3 - Carloburgo Knights
PF: Marcelo Romero (26, 6'8'') - #8 - Arrieros de Antioquia
C: Henry Brüning (26, 6'11'') - #4 - Carloburgo Knights

BENCH:

G: Freddy Roberts (26, 6'3'') - #2 - Eterna Galaxy
G: Jacob Ellis (25, 6'3'') - #10 - Metropolis Eagles
G: Geoffrey Brosque (25, 6'4'') - #6 - Lions de Bezieres
F: Andrés Barrera (26, 6'7'') - #7 - Slateport Stallions
F: Thiago Santana (27, 6'6'') - #11 - Universitario de Maldonado
F: Carlos Almirón (25, 6'8'') - #13 - Guerreros de Arma
C: Pablo Ospino (24, 6'10'') - #9 - Arrieros de Antioquia
C: Jonathan Marrero (24, 6'11'') - #12 - Lanceros de Colón

RP Permissions:

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Yes, but contact me first. Also, expect retaliation.
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Foul my players out: Yes, but contact me first.
Eject my players/staff: Yes, but contact me first.
Godmod Other Events: Yes, however, this excludes any and all kind of pandemics.

Uniforms:

Home Court:

All group stage home matches for the Blue Jaguars will be played at the home arena of multiple IUBC champions Carloburgo Knights: Abbey Court, in Carloburgo (Capacity: 19,500).

by **Delaclava** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 12:20 pm

DSGN.com Basketball

IBC31 Qualifying: Phoenixes grind down Hebitaka in home opener
Harris amazes in world debut; collegiates also shine in second half

Santa Lourdes, STR -- Omar Harris tallied 21 points and 15 rebounds, all within the first three quarters, and the Delaclava national basketball team rolled to an 82-62 victory over Hebitaka to open play at the International Basketball Championship.

The Phoenixes dominated their opponents in the full-court game, as expected, but also were able to overpower and out-grind in half-court setups with Harris, who is in his third year with the Salem Wizards. They had a comfortable lead of 50-37 at the half and grew the margin to 65-48 after three quarters, after which the team's collegiate players and reserves largely took over.

"Tonight was an ideal way for us to start the tournament," said Rick Jones, who added 15 points, six rebounds, and seven assists. "We pushed the pace early to open up the lead, and it gave us room to try different looks and get some of our newer guys battle-tested... We weren't going to get ahead of ourselves tonight, but we knew if we had the opportunity, we would start investing in our long-term success in this competition."

Đorđe Zubić had a relatively quiet night, with ten points and nine rebounds, and he did not play the second half. Neither Zubić nor coach Jim Levins was available for comment after the game, but Jones stated it was a precautionary measure, adding, "When we need him, he'll be 100% good to go."

In any case, the half-time cushion gave Levins the freedom to rely more heavily on Lorenzo Austin (Catherina) and Sifiso Ntenga (Laurelum), both of whom are expected to contribute significant minutes in the Phoenixes' rotation, but did not have the opportunity to see much action in a competitive AOBC schedule. Austin was highly effective in the mobile power forward role of Zubić, contributing 11 points and seven rebounds, while Ntenga demonstrated great versatility on both ends of the floor - eight points, four rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks. It was also a big opportunity for Jordan George (St. James) and Jay Francis (Arana State), who took the places of Harris and Jones, respectively, and a warm homecoming for former Straka State standout Obdulio Herrera at the 13,513-seat StrakaBanc Center; the home of the Blue Flash was filled to capacity and providing high energy for all forty minutes.

Kumar Deshmukh led the Hebitaka squad with 15 points and seven assists, and Gabriel Robert added 11 points and 12 rebounds.

In looking around the opening games of IBC31, most of the top teams similarly survived any major slips, including fellow Group A member Valanora, who took down unranked Saint-Domingues 79-67. The most shocking victim was 10th-ranked TJUN-ia, who suffered a 75-73 loss against Smosh games; meanwhile, eighth-ranked Lisander came out worse in a battle against 15th-ranked Qasden at home, losing 76-69 to become the highest-ranked side to begin 0-1. While AOBC champions and World #1 Banija continued to roll, 94-58 against Mytanija, 2nd-ranked Newmanistan were perhaps lucky to escape Mapletish with a victory, 80-75.

Jones noted the upsets and close calls that other teams suffered: "We knew anything was possible today. We were locked in because we wanted to send the right message immediately, and not have any bad surprises. We've gotten to know each other as a team during the regional championships and in training camp since then, which I think has been so good for us.

"There's no court rust on this team. We're ready."

20th-ranked Delaclava (1-0) next faces unranked Saint-Domingues (0-1) at the 23,000-seat Morrison Court in Quinniville. Morrison Court notably hosted several games in the previous IBC hosted by Delaclava, the 7th edition; in fact, Morrison Court twice hosted the Delaclava team in the final group stage. While the venue does not have any permanent tenants currently, it is used frequently for significant games by Stenrick State, Quinniville Institute of Technology, and US Quinniville, as well as Stenrick high school postseason games.

"We're looking forward to playing somewhere so historic, a place that holds this game sacred," stated point guard Simon Rybakov. "They'll love having us there and we look forward to giving them a good performance... We absolutely have the speed and pace advantage in this matchup. I think we're going to put on a show."

by **Mytanija** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 1:41 pm

ALPHABET HOOP - THOUGHTS ON MYTANAR BASKETBALL
by Almedina Radovanovic

IBC OPENER A SOBERING REMINDER OF MYTANIJA'S LEVEL

Well if the question was 'how do you solve a problem like Banija' then the answer must be that you don't on the basis of Mytanija's performance last night. The Hoops were on the receiving end of a 94-58 drubbing at the NacZat Arena in what can only be described as a disappointing start to the team's IBC campaign. Banijan power forward Labanzi Nabongo was in stunning form, leading the game in points scored with his 34, clearly relishing the match-up with Stepan Bychkov and dominating him for much of the game. He scored 24 of those points in the first-half before having his minutes restricted as Banija rested key players with a solid lead going into the second-half of the game. It will be back to the drawing board for Mirko Lazetic, particularly on the defensive end where Mytanija could not find solutions to the Banijan team's physicality. There's no shame in losing to a team that is as good as Banija, but this was a real sound beating and will serve as a sobering reminder to the Mytanar team that this level of basketball is a real step-up from the MKA Liga back home.

In the opening minutes it looked like some of the team's younger players were alarmed by Banija's physicality, Ateljevic in particular had a quiet first quarter. Lazetic tried to combat this by introducing some more experienced heads in the form of Dragomir Marusic and Teodor Mitrovski but this made the Hoops seem a little stale on the offensive end. Mitrovski was impressive when rebounding though, collecting 4 in the opening quarter alone and he finished the game leading the team for the night with 8. In truth, Banija dominated Mytanija in all facets of the game and rebounding was a big part of that. Sadio Bartaba had an excellent night and every time there was a loose ball it seemed like the big man was there to collect it, his 14 rebounds demonstrating his tenacity and evident ability. Mytanija's best spell in the game came in the second quarter and Zelimir Ateljevic seemed to have grown into the game as he got rotated into the line-up. He scored a couple of threes and a demonstrated his hops with a nice dunk over Kizza Alonso. Ateljevic led the team in scoring with 18 and it did feel a little like Mytanija were relying on his ability to drive and unsettle the 1-3-1 zone. Lazetic will have to find a way to get Fomin involved in the creation of scoring opportunities, the BK Magevskaya big was practically anonymous in this game.

In short, a tough start for Mytanija. They have no time to rest up with a tough trip across Rushmore to Græntfjall where they will meet the group's number two seed. Coming off the back of such a resounding defeat will only serve to make the game tougher, with the physical attributes of our friends from Græntfjall being one of those regional stereotypes which seem to have passed into common knowledge. Lazetic will hope that his team can engage in the physical battle more than they did against Banija, but on last night's evidence this IBC could be a tough competition for a Mytanar national basketball team which is largely bereft of experience at international level.

by **Cassadaigua** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 2:29 pm

After legal settlement, players return,
by Chelsea Dufresne, Concord Heights Times

The Cassadagan Association For Basketball had a lot of explaining to do following the team's failure to signup for the last International Basketball Championships. We have all heard the stories of how it happened, and scratched our heads about how such a mistake could ever happen. This led to firings within the organization and a complete overhaul of its personnel. The end result is that the governing body should be paying more attention to detail, even the most trivial ones.

However, this did not mean that all was okay with the players. The young basketball team put together a lawsuit, seeking damages from the organization's negligence in how the failure to participate in IBC 30 cost them money in endorsements. Ericka Kinney, a graduate of the University of Concord Heights, was the one who put together the lawsuit on behalf of the team. In total, the players sought $5,000,000 each from the organization. Additionally, coach Kelsey Jackson was a part of the litigation, and sought $2,500,000. In total, this was a $62,500,000 lawsuit that the members of the Cassadagan Association for Basketball had in front of them. Erica Kinney said at the time that, "It was certainly gross negligence on their part. They acknowledged the error, but it was still inexcusable that the error ever happened. We lost out. I personally had a sponsorship agreement with Dagan Airways concerning the IBC, and I could not fulfill my agreement with them due to this negligence. I lost money as a result." Kaitlin Benson, the outspoken New Lakeland University graduate said that, "It was absolute disgrace what happened. I am glad all of the right people got fired and I hope they are all making subs at SubHouse. Check that, I wouldn't want that for the sake of SubHouse. They're a great place. Absolutely, we are entitled to be compensated for their failures."

Some business organizations filed their own lawsuits towards the Cassadagan Association for Basketball, but the governing body was quick to resolve those. As for the players, they simply felt that they were asking too much, and that any damages should be awarded on an individual basis. Therefore, they were willing to fight this out in court. Eventually, they gave in and accepted a settlement which awarded each player $3,750,000 in damages and coach Jackson $1,500,000. Also part of the agreement is that the body had to allow every single player to play in IBC 31, regardless of whether or not they were the best fit. In most cases, they still are, but it was put in the settlement to ensure that no grudges were in place over the legal filing. In their first game, the team struggled, and it was a reminder that we were still growing in the IBC, and how costly the failure to play in IBC 30 actually was.

by **Srednjaci** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 3:26 pm

WORLD ARENA SPORT - CHANEL 2

Dear spectators, our men's basketball team suffered a defeat in the first game of the IBC.
Our basketball players were guests in Zeta Reka and Hügeltald.
The result in the end was Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom 88–66 Srednjaci!
With us in the studio is the president of the Srednjaci basketball association Damir Kurjak and selector of the junior men's team Ivan Vezmar.
Here we had a chance to see our guys in action but it didn’t go against a much better team.
Mr. Kurjak, how do you see this result?

KURJAK: We expected a defeat, maybe the result is too big but we have to go further, this is only the first game.

REPORTER: Did our people show everything they can?

KURJAK: No, far from it, we see that the shot stopped and there was a heavy defeat. The outside lines didn’t work well.

REPORTER: We hope that our team will play better in the next game.
Dear viewers, follow the matches with IBC on our programs. So many of us for today.
Thank you for your attention and stay with our program.

REPORTER: What is the situation in our basketball?

KURJAK: It's a great situation. This is our first big national team performance. I believe the pressure and the first performance did their thing.

REPORTER: Mr. Vezmar, you are the coach of our youth team, two players from your team received an invitation what you think about this match.

VEZMAR: I agree with Mr. Kurjak, we are a young team, we are not appointed, we are gaining experience.

REPORTER: Would you change anything unlike a coach?

VEZMAR: he wouldn't change anything, he set up the game well, called time-out on time and gave great instructions.
our shot percentage was bad. I believe the second game will be much better.

REPORTER: difficult on, is the group but do we have a chance to pass?

VEZMAR: hard, when you are unplaced then it is hard to break through.
We have to do our best and start winning.

REPORTER: let's look at other results in our group.

Group C
Nova Anglicana 97–69 Squidroidia
Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom 88–66 Srednjaci
Smosh games 75–73 TJUN-ia

REPORTER: here is the hall where we welcome our opponents, ticket sales are going well ...

KURJAK: yes, the hall is ready, the new basketball hall "Dom Košarke" accommodates 10,560 spectators and tickets are selling great.
Srednjaciand Katanija love basketball.

REPORTER: We hope that our team will play better in the next game.
Dear viewers, follow the matches with IBC on our programs. So many of us for today.
Thank you for your attention and stay with our program.

by **Chromatika** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 3:37 pm

Chromatika in IBC 31
Part 2: First Stanza - Victorious Opening

The First:

With the first game done
An absolute great blowout!
There is momentum.

The Second:

Jung-Hyuk is the heart
With twenty-three and fifteen
More double-doubles?

The Third:

Due to Quebec's win
The Penguins' test on the road
Will be a tough one.

by **Xanneria** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 5:33 pm

Maroon Hoopsters break bank against Rwekwazaland
Excerptfrom http://www.ballislife.xan/gamereports.html

Xanneria 80–63 Rwekazaland

XANNERIA - In a matchup of two teams, one the Maroons and the other not the Maroons, the Maroons dominated the boards, the paint, and the arch to a solid 80 point showing for the day, lead by solid contributions from Hakeem Wassad and Tyson McHicks as the pair dazzeled and stupified the Rwekwazalandi defense scoring 45 of the Maroons 80 point total. A through defensive showing was helped by poor shooting as the no-name Rwwekazaland offense couldn't shoot if they had a gun up to their head. Tyson McHicks on the other hand could do no wrong, the 6'3'' guard was running amuck on defenders with a solid 21 points on 8/13 shooting and 5/9 from the free throw line despite only playing really the second half after some quick foul trouble early . McHicks is really coming to his own for the the Dominica City Senetors. He's been leading the Senetors in Scoring with 27.5 per game and could easily pull off more in the IBC, if he doesn't keep having fouls issues. On the flip side, there was also his running mate at guard Hakeem Wassad. Wassad was a torture for the Rwkazaland team, as the man was on fire for 24 points including 5/9 from three point range. in fact he only took four additional shots from the paint as he continued to show why he is the three point threat in Xannerian Basketball

XANNERIAN LEAD SCORERS
H Wassad - 24pts 7rbs 2stls
T McHicks - 21pts 5rbs 5ast
L Faraday - 11 pts 7 rbs 1stl

Meet the Stadium: Fantasy Pizza - McClung Arena Middlebrook, Bearden

MIDDLEBROOK - "The ol' hole" as it is called by locals to Middlebrook, is one of the few things the can united fans of the towns two notoriously bickering football clubs, Bearden FC and West Hills FC. THe Bearden Sky play here and are known as one of the best teams in the nation. Lead by two National team members, Lorenzon Faraday and Tomas Bryar, the Sky's potent rebounding machine. THe Bearden Sky was formed in 1971 as the Bearden Bullets, but would later change that name after a controversial shooting that took place outside the old downtown Bearden Arena arena in 1992. The Sky would soon move a few miles out closer toward the uptown side of town when the built McClung arena in 2007. McCLung is named after the Bearden Sky's founder Harold McClung. THe sponsorship comes from Fantasy Pizza, a popular, Bearden based, national pizza chain. The "ol' Hole nickname is derived from the stadium being builty in a large hole on purpose. It seats 12'000.

by **Valanora** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 6:54 pm

Nothing is ever easy, if it was, then it would not be worth striving for. The Dragons were always in control in their first game of the tournament but the result was never quite out of reach for the home side, as they kept the game close for the entirety of the game, as the Dragons only ran out as ten point winners. It was a night of win and survive when one looks at the scoreboard though and see a number of games that were far closer than what was predicted going into the result and even a handful of upsets that have a few of the top two seeds needing to sort themselves out after just the first game of the tournament, a far from enviable position to be in at such an early juncture in the competition. While the Dragons might have liked to have a more dominant performance against their unranked foes in the opening match, winning on the road seems to be a small victory in of itself given what has transpired with the rest of the competition on that first matchday and is a far better result than the alternative. Getting a bit of momentum to roll into the rest of the tournament can never be underestimated.

There is talk that the Dragons are perhaps one of the weaker first seeds by foreign opposition and media, with a lot of that speculation coming as a direct result of the Dragons bypassing the AOBC. There are questions as to why the Dragons and Calcuttas do bypass the regional competitions, when the Marauders are known for taking the AOCAF very seriously, usually sending the full team or a mixture of the first and reserve team to the competition. The truth of the matter is a lack of interest by the fans as well as a lack of funding for the respective programs compared to that of the Marauders and football. The fan interest in the regional competitions outside of the AOCAF is quite negligible, as viewership for these regional competitions are among the lowest of any sports programming that is aired in the Eternal Empire. When you compare that with the AOCAF or even the AOCL, which are among the top five competitions watched in the Empire, it does not make the VSC seriously consider sending teams to either of these competitions when compared to the actual world championships.

Would entering the AOBC and doing well strengthen the Dragons' standing in the rest of the international community? Maybe, it is hard to tell, especially when you consider just how good Banija is right now, being the current holders of both the world and regional championship in the sport, it could be a competition of futility and one where the outcome is all but determined before it has even began. There are issues that are in the way of the Dragons but it is currently very difficult to make the case that not entering the regional championship is one, as much as some of the others in the region would argue otherwise, perhaps wanting another one of the good teams in the region in the competition. From a competitive outlook, it is easy to understand that desire to want to be playing against the best teams, but for the Dragons, it would be more beneficial to try and address the issue of the team not playing domestically than dealing with the headache of the regional competition right now. Perhaps it will happen in the future, but it is far from a priority for the VSC and will take a lot of convincing to change their minds.

by **Delaclava** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 8:42 pm

Alright, one game is in the books! Now that you remember what it's like to be back on the courts, there's no time to waste. Find your best game and let's get down to business. Let's dance.

Day 2 cutoff!

Group A
Hebitaka 75–64 Pemecutan
Valanora 64–42 Equestrian States of Poland
Delaclava 101–75 Saint-Domingues

Group A                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Delaclava                              2    2   0   183  137  +46
2 Valanora                               2    2   0   143  109  +34
3 Hebitaka                               2    1   1   137  146   −9
4 Pemecutan                              2    1   1   156  154   +2
5 Equestrian States of Poland            2    0   2   121  156  −35
6 Saint-Domingues                        2    0   2   142  180  −38

Group B
Equestria 81–60 Crystal Empire
United Vietussia 76–79 Cassadaigua
Silvedania 66–77 Kriegiersien

Group B                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Equestria                              2    2   0   157  117  +40
2 Kriegiersien                           2    2   0   154  130  +24
3 Crystal Empire                         2    1   1   150  157   −7
4 Cassadaigua                            2    1   1   155  166  −11
5 United Vietussia                       2    0   2   140  156  −16
6 Silvedania                             2    0   2   123  153  −30

Group C
Squidroidia 65–76 TJUN-ia
Srednjaci 75–56 Smosh games
Nova Anglicana 74–75 Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom

Group C                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom              2    2   0   163  140  +23
2 Srednjaci                              2    1   1   141  144   −3
3 Smosh games                            2    1   1   131  148  −17
4 Nova Anglicana                         2    1   1   171  144  +27
5 TJUN-ia                                2    1   1   149  140   +9
6 Squidroidia                            2    0   2   134  173  −39

Group D
Kohnhead 69–61 Crilland
East Lemyone 66–84 Vangaziland
Royal Kingdom of Quebec 77–77 Chromatika (100–96 OT)

Group D                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Vangaziland                            2    2   0   159  127  +32
2 Royal Kingdom of Quebec                2    2   0   191  171  +20
3 Chromatika                             2    1   1   196  157  +39
4 Kohnhead                               2    1   1   144  152   −8
5 Crilland                               2    0   2   122  144  −22
6 East Lemyone                           2    0   2   123  184  −61

Group E
Southwest Eastnorth 84–76 United Volcano Isles
Oscioru 63–65 Drawkland
Omerica 75–80 Juvencus

Group E                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Drawkland                              2    2   0   167  129  +38
2 Juvencus                               2    2   0   172  148  +24
3 Omerica                                2    1   1   154  141  +13
4 Southwest Eastnorth                    2    1   1   145  155  −10
5 Oscioru                                2    0   2   136  157  −21
6 United Volcano Isles                   2    0   2   142  186  −44

Group F
Ethane 53–75 Nateros Sill
Hannasea 61–96 Sarzonia
Valladares 92–74 Filindostan

Group F                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Sarzonia                               2    2   0   175  118  +57
2 Valladares                             2    2   0   167  142  +25
3 Nateros Sill                           2    1   1   132  132    0
4 Filindostan                            2    1   1   151  167  −16
5 Ethane                                 2    0   2   121  150  −29
6 Hannasea                               2    0   2   136  173  −37

Group G
Rwekazaland 79–61 Khytonya
Newmanistan 101–57 Trolleborg
Xanneria 69–68 Mapletish

Group G                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Newmanistan                            2    2   0   181  132  +49
2 Xanneria                               2    2   0   149  131  +18
3 Rwekazaland                            2    1   1   142  141   +1
4 Khytonya                               2    1   1   138  155  −17
5 Mapletish                              2    0   2   143  149   −6
6 Trolleborg                             2    0   2   133  178  −45

Group H
Banija 82–61 Maccian
HUElavia 80–61 Baker Park
Mytanija 62–87 Græntfjall

Group H                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                                 2    2   0   176  119  +57
2 HUElavia                               2    2   0   157  127  +30
3 Græntfjall                             2    1   1   153  139  +14
4 Maccian                                2    1   1   156  173  −17
5 Baker Park                             2    0   2   152  175  −23
6 Mytanija                               2    0   2   120  181  −61

Group I
United States of the Adirondacks 60–66 Acastanha
Lisander 93–76 Marigred
Hispinas 81–103 Qasden

Group I                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Qasden                                 2    2   0   179  150  +29
2 Acastanha                              2    2   0   152  136  +16
3 Lisander                               2    1   1   162  152  +10
4 Hispinas                               2    1   1   163  171   −8
5 United States of the Adirondacks       2    0   2   128  148  −20
6 Marigred                               2    0   2   152  179  −27

Group J
Abanhfleft 91–55 Sannyamathland
Indusse 94–66 Wizcity
Northwest Kalactin 80–61 Savigliane

Group J                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Abanhfleft                             2    2   0   172  122  +50
2 Indusse                                2    2   0   179  140  +39
3 Northwest Kalactin                     2    1   1   147  142   +5
4 Sannyamathland                         2    1   1   131  159  −28
5 Savigliane                             2    0   2   135  165  −30
6 Wizcity                                2    0   2   134  170  −36

by **Indusse** » Sun Feb 07, 2021 11:51 pm

Loophole.net
Victory!

Group J
Abanhfleft 91–55 Sannyamathland
Indusse 94–66 Wizcity
Northwest Kalactin 80–61 Savigliane

Group J                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Abanhfleft                             2    2   0   172  122  +50
2 Indusse                                2    2   0   179  140  +39
3 Northwest Kalactin                     2    1   1   147  142   +5
4 Sannyamathland                         2    1   1   131  159  −28
5 Savigliane                             2    0   2   135  165  −30
6 Wizcity                                2    0   2   134  170  −36

That was a easy win! Indusse defeats Wizcity for the score of ninety four against sixty six. The game was easily taken up by Indusse for a margin of twenty eight points. The fans at Indusse is getting confused whether they should watch the match or save themselves. The recent Maoist attacks are Creating confusion in the nation. After the one in the forest of Wayanadu, the maoist federation blasted another bombing in the hilly southern region. In the recent attacks, over fifteen were killed and sixty injured. The police have decided to take more charges but it seems like the Maoist Federation has decided to move to Madhyarashtra again for the bombings. The Attack of Maha Ambapuram is still waiting Aftermaths. Recently, the Rajiya Sabha Member of Madhyarashtra Sri. Ambapuram Venkiteshwara Iyengar was attacked by the Maoist Federation and he had escaped from the hands of the dead with luck. He has been send to the ICU and is currently under ventilation. The doctors say that he was hit with a iron rod in the back which resulted in internal bleeding and loss of consciousness. The Hospital Authorities are trying their best to get the parliamentarian back to life. Venkiteshwara Iyengar was a former citizen of Indusse and he left for Madhyarashtra at the age of 21 looking for a job. He first found himself in a factory and worked there as a employee till the age of twenty five. He completed his Diploma in the colleges in Madhyarashtra and at the age of thirty go himself enrolled as a guest lecturer in one of the colleges in Urban Madhyarashtra. He was known for his educational based movements and later after his retirement at the age of forty nine, he started to participate in the politics of Madhyarashtra. He is currently a RS Member with the Hindu Dharmicist Party (HDP) Ticket and serves the nation as the Minister of External Affairs.

by **Delaclava** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 12:44 am

DSGN.com Basketball

IBC31 Qualifying: Saint-Domingues, Morrison Court scoreboard can't keep pace with Phoenixes
Ranta's shooting, Rybakov's speed on display as Delaclava torches newcomers

Quinniville, STN -- Pekko Ranta made an international breakout performance with 32 points, Simon Rybakov announced himself as a bona fide starter by adding 13 points and 15 assists, and 20th-ranked Delaclava blew out debutants Saint-Domingues 101-75 in front of a standing-room only crowd at Morrison Court.

While the Phoenixes were more deliberate and methodical in the latter stages of their 82-62 opening win over Hebitaka, coach Jim Levins had made it clear that he now wanted to see what would happen if the team pushed the pace for 40 minutes.

"We played well the other night, but we didn't really need to get out of first gear to get it done," Ranta said. "But we knew they played Valanora close and thought they could be a tough test if we weren't careful. We're a fast-paced team and Coach wanted to see where our cardio, where our speed was at. So tonight was a pedal to the medal kind of game."

The result was that the Phoenixes were brilliant from the get-go, many thanks to the speed and urgency that Rybakov brought to the offense. The Delaclav team has long been searching for consistently excellent guard play, but former starters Evgeny Golubkin and Evan Galliano often looked pedestrian at the worst times, and Carly Davis never became what many had hoped. Rybakov is now suiting up for his third IBC, having matured from a scrappy freshman out of Chisholm College to a standout rookie with the Manchester Lions, yet many pundits still wondered if Rybakov had the capabilities to quarterback the Delaclav offense.

Unquestionably, Rybakov showed his best tonight, making himself readily available as the outlet and finding Ranta on the wing or Zubić down the middle for a quick basket. And with just two turnovers against his 15 assists, along with five steals, Rybakov never gave the Saint-Dominguan defenders a chance to slow him down.

Asked if he felt vindicated after his performance tonight in the face of doubts and criticism, Rybakov graciously said, "I think anyone who's been harsh to us is just a bit impatient, but they're hopeful about what we can accomplish. And I know they'll see that we're starting to get there."

While Rybakov was instrumental in implementing the fast-break style, that tactic has been known to backfire when the shooters can't find the range. Enter Ranta, who at one point in the second quarter sunk four consecutive threes, both in transition and in the half-court set, and was as precise as could be throughout the night. Ranta finished 10-of-16 from the field, including 6-of-9 from beyond the arc, and rounded out his performance by making all six of his free throws.

Ranta credited the general style of play and the team's numerous offensive weapons, explaining: "I got so many open looks tonight because Simon would be coming down the court so fast, or they'd crowd on Đorđe or collapse on Omar. We have so many ways we can beat the opposing teams. It was just my turn to get set up and make my shots."

The Phoenixes started off strong but relatively steady, leading 23-17 after one frame, but turned on the gas in the second quarter, increasing the lead to as much as 25 before finishing the half at a score of 59-41. That included a 12-0 run that came from Ranta's four consecutive treys, along with a missed Saint-Dominguan shot, a block by Omar Harris, and a steal by Rybakov.

Saint-Domingue got more comfortable in their own half-court setup in the third quarter, and Alphonse Ancel brought the deficit back to 10 points with some effective mid-range shooting; Ancel finished with 20 points, and Charles Duverger added 13 points and eight assists. But the Dominguan frontcourt was neutralised by Zubić, Harris, and Rick Jones for nearly the entire game, and Lorenzo Austin and Zachary Bates rounded out a complete defensive performance in those positions. The Phoenixes then closed the third quarter with a 9-0 run, as a part of Zubić's last stand before exiting - he finished with two transition layups, two defensive rebounds, a kick-out to Rybakov on the wing, then a block before converting a put-back dunk off a missed Ranta shot at the buzzer.

While the game was another opportunity for the bench players to see increased action, Đorđe Zubić still played 21 minutes through three quarters and assuaged concerns about his health. Zubić played just 11 minutes against Hebitaka, all in the first half, and there have been rumors of an unspecified injury, but the BC Athens MVP forward had a solid night with 15 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, and showed no obvious physical limitations. Nevertheless, neither Zubić nor Jim Levins was available for post-game interviews.

The Phoenixes delighted the standing-room only crowd of 26,142 at Morrison Court. The former permanent and still occasional home of Quinniville Institute of Technology has retained the same name for its entire history, and is internationally notable for hosting several games in IBC7, including two final group stage matches for the Phoenixes. The fans never stopped cheering and offering their support, yet it was the gym itself which was perhaps the only letdown for the Phoenixes on the night.

While Morrison Court is a jewel of Delaclav basketball history, it has been wanting of late for a few renovations. The floorboards seemed to creak with the torrid pace the Phoenixes were putting on, and the old scoreboard provided a brief moment of levity as a three-pointer from Jay Francis with 1:01 left, bringing the Delaclav score past 99 to 101, actually caused the board to turn off.

"I shot really well tonight," Ranta laughed, "but Jay shot the lights out."

The Phoenixes surely enjoyed themselves, with a near-flawless performance in front of a raucous crowd, yet it was nevertheless a crucial victory in the IBC landscape. Group A top seed Valanora remained perfect with a slightly stale yet still comprehensive 64-42 victory over Equestrian States of Poland, but top-20 teams Nova Anglicana, Omerica, and Trolleborg all suffered losses in their second game, and top-five powers Drawkland and Quebec were lucky to barely escape with victories.

"We're having a lot of fun out there," Rick Jones admitted, "but you'll never see us fail to take a matchup seriously. We take care of business, and then we smile when we see how well we're doing that."

That next business to attend to is a road game against Equestrian States of Poland. Nothing is known about them - who or what they are, who plays for them, where to go for the game - but Jones and company aren't worried. The captain said, "When we have nothing to look at for our opponents, we can still take a look at ourselves. When we get to wherever, we'll be ready to impose our will once again."

The Phoenixes will then look forward to returning home for a tougher test - 25th-ranked Pemecutan, the most likely stumbling block on Delaclava's path to the IBC Finals. Delaclava will host at the new North Beach Arena on Laurelum, the island just off the southwestern coast near Ojstiz. Even in the early stages of the tournament, Jones recognises the importance of building momentum at home for this tournament in particular.

"We're building up to playing the most crucial games of the tournament in front of our own fans... the more games we win at home early, the more excited they'll be to keep coming back, getting their friends, families, our communities behind us. If we get far enough along, it won't just be us out there - it'll be everyone who's along for the ride.

"That's what we have in mind when we show up and work hard every single day. The championship starts now."

by **Graintfjall** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 6:54 am

Posted on the In Brief section of the GTV Sports website.

Offensive rebound: Super Wolves take out on frustrations on Rushmori rivals

by **Sarzonia** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 7:06 am

The concern Sarzonian national basketball team manager Thomas Manningham had when he saw the schedule the Incorporated Basketball Federation placed in front of him and his team was fatigue.

The Stars would not only compete in the Atlantian Oceania Basketball Championships in the weeks building up to their appearance in the 31st International Basketball Championships, hosted by southern neighbours Delaclava, but they would travel to Athens to face the Phoenixes in their brand new arena in the second edition of the Cyanea Tipoff Classic.

The Stars went 2-1 in the group stage of the AOBC, winning the group because of overall point differential in the two matches against the other two teams they were level with, then survived a multi-overtime classic against Qasden before crushing hosts Equestria. They then battled rivals Banija in a fierce contest that came down to the final minutes of the fourth quarter before the Stars fell just short of capturing a title.

After two easy victories over the unranked sides in the IBC, Manningham didn't have much to worry about. The Stars defeated Nateros Sill and Hannasea by wide margins to improve to 2-0 ahead of a matchup against the highest-ranked rival in Group F, Valladares. The 12th ranked team in the multiverse will pay a visit to the Stars at The Palestra in Woodstock, where a sold out crowd is expected to cheer on the Stars.

The Valladars are also 2-0 after their 92-74 victory over Filindostan on their home court. They opened the tournament with a hard-fought 75-68 victory over Ethane. The match against Sarzonia will be their first away fixture. With the depth players getting so much playing time in the previous two matches, Manningham is expected to shorten his rotation for the Valladares match.

"If it remains close, we're going to test our match fitness for sure," Manningham said. "It was a good thing that we had some close battles leading up to this tournament. We had to learn to handle adversity before this tournament began. It should help us in what I expect to be a very close contest."

In the first match, a crowd of 15,837 saw the Stars dominate Nateros Sill 79–57 behind a game-high 21 points from Mike West in only 24 minutes. Point guard Ben Thomas continued the experiment Manningham utilised against the Phoenixes by playing the two with reserve guard Jayne Cruz playing the point. He scored 14 points to go along with eight assists and five steals. Against Hannasea, the Stars won on the visitors' home court to the tune of a 96-61 triumph that saw West lead the way with 20 points before he sat out from midway through the third quarter on.

"I just wanted to give our depth players a chance," Manningham told the assembled media after the match in Lake Took. "We had a couple of matches where we played well ahead of a critical home match against Valladares, and I wanted our players to be sharp and well rested considering how difficult our schedule leading up to this tournament has been."

Manningham saw when his Stars put up a 26-point halftime lead over Hannasea that he didn't have to warn his team about "trap matches." They already knew.

"Actually, I was getting ready to address the team in the dressing room after we played Nateros Sill and before I entered the room, I heard Mike telling the team to guard against Hannasea being a trap match," Manningham said. "It was great to hear that."

Though not surprising. After all, Manningham pointed out, Mike West is the son of legendary Sarzonian basketball coach Henry West, who led the Stars to their four IBC titles in the early days of the tournament. In fact, West managed the Stars to seven consecutive finals, a feat seldom seen in any major sport in the multiverse.

"Mike's the son of a legend, and he may well be a legend in his own right when it's all said and done," Cruz said. "He knows his shit, that's for sure."

by **Southwest Eastnorth** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 7:08 am

Southwest Eastnorth 84–76 United Volcano Isles

The Frontiersmen of the Southwest Eastnorth national men's basketball team took on the United Volcano Islands in a victory of two teams in need of points, while the Frontiersmen were able to pull it out, it wasn't as easy as the clear path to victory the scoreboard may have indicated. Ivory Jay-Lucas had 28 points but got in foul trouble late and the United Volcano Islands took advantage of the scoring presence, lack of presence. The United Volcano team went from being down by a score of 70-55 to 74-69, going on a 14-4 run at one point. But in the end forward Steve Deagle took two clutch three pointers with two minutes and change left to put the team back up 80-69. While the United Volcano team tried their best with a 7-4 run, most of that was in the end where intentional fouling is the prime strategy. In the end Ivory Jay Lucas lead the team with 28 points, and had 4 fouls, while Steven Deagle had 17 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double to help the Frontiersmen in the time of need and stop the United Volcano Islands run. Blitz Carmicheal lead all bench players with 13 points and 8 rebounds as the back up center also came in clutch with some offensive assists to Deagle on those clutch three point shots. For the United Volcano Islands, Lapa Kana scored 20 points and had 11 assist, giving him a double-double too. Most of Kana's assist were for the Hinano Kimo explosion that propelled the 14-4 run. Kimo finished with 15 points and Keao Nakaneaela grabbed 11. Next game will be played versus Juvencus.

Leading Scorers
Southwest Eastnorth 84
1.) I. Jay-Lucas 28pts 6rbs 5ast
2.) S. Deagle 17pts 10rbs 4ast
3.) B Carmicheal 13 pts 4rbs 3ast

United Volcano Islands 76
1.) L Kana 20 pts 5rbs 11ast
2.) H Kimo 15pts 7rbs 2stls
3.) K Nakaneaela 11pts 9rbs 2ast

by **Mapletish** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 7:18 am

The Sour Kind
"I only know one thing, that is I know nothing"

Commentaries| Timothy Jozua

Dragons optimistic with 2 narrow misses

Box Score

	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Xanneria	19	25	13	12	69
Mapletish	18	20	15	15	68

It wasn't the most fulfilling or most exciting of results as the Dragons missed out on a narrow game against Xanneria, or the Maroons as they are called back at Xanneria's home arena. The Dragons were edged out 69-68, in another replica of the close loss to multiverse number, Newmanistan in the opening match day. The Rockets continued to pick up another W for matchday 2 as they steamrolled bottom of the group, Trolleborg, 101-57 back at home. That left the Rockets at the top of table following a close 80-75 victory over the Dragons previously. The Dragons, despite facing the defeat remained optimistic ahead of their game against Xanneria.

Xanneria, 34th in the multiverse, were also ready to school the young non-professionals of the Dragons side right from the start. They were more eager, and got ahead with a slew of individual brilliance. They outscored and outpaced the Dragons right from the first quarter, picking up a narrow 19-18 scoreline in the first period. Following a brilliant tip off, the Maroons were first to take on the possession and to mount the pressure on the Dragons. The Dragons were not those to bow under the pressure though as it was the back court who were racking up the points. 5 2-pointers and 1 3-pointer rounded up the first period for the Dragons. Point Guard, Gregory Rice was responsible for 9 points in the first period, with a solid 3-pointer and 3 2-pointer, with an impressive layup for one of the 2-pointer attempts. Fellow guard, Kevin Nichols and Power Forward Manuel Ray managed a 2-pointer each.

The 2nd period was intense but the Dragons kept it up. 25-20, that was how the scoreline for the 2nd period ended up. The Dragons however, were still behind. The Dragons though persisted with whatever they have got. The Dragons picked up 8 2-pointers, 1 3-pointer and an and-one to end off the 1st half of the match. Gregory Rice continued with his scoring run bagging 5 of the 8 2-pointers, scoring 10 pointers for the quarter, putting his tally to 19 for the match while Nichols, Bridges and Quinn each bagged a 2-pointer each with a layup, dunk and mid-range shot respectively. The three pointer was converted by Manuel Ray from the far right corner while Bridges converted an and-one from a charging foul when he attempted his dunk.

The 3rd period was a closely matched encounter but it was the Dragons who kept hold of the possession early. The third quarter saw the Dragons lead a period for the first time in the match with a 15-13 lead over the Maroons, but it did little to close the gap between the two teams. The Dragons bagged 3 2-pointers and 3 3-pointers in this period with Bert Waters taking on the scoring responsibility, bagging 2 of the 2-pointers and all 3 of the 3-pointers putting the points getting to 13 points in the third period. The other sole 2-pointer came from Derek Ross for his impressive ankle breaker and a jump shot just inches away from the three point line in the arc.

The last period was taken by the Dragons as they got ahead 15-12, but it was not enough for the Dragons as they failed to overcome the Maroons. The Dragons clocked an impressive 6 2-pointers and 1 3-pointer to round up the encounter. It was Manuel Ray who clocked the sole 3-pointer while Nichols and Rice shared 3 of the 2-pointers each enroute for a 4th period victory for the Dragons a mini victory for the Dragons. Rice was impressive with 3 straight layups in the paint while Nichols opted to dunk one of his 2-pointers while opting for 2 mid range shots to finish up the scoring.

Despite picking up another L in the 2nd match day, head coach Kerry Poole remained optimistic of the Dragons' performance, he explained, "I look forward to all of these matches because of the desire and hunger that the guys are displaying. Despite picking up a loss, it was a close one and we can only improve from here."

The Dragons faced 66th ranked Rwekazaland next at the Rosten Centre, see you then.

by **Xanneria** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 7:53 am

Clutch win? More like lucky Win!
excerpt from http://www.ballislife.xan/gamereports.html

XANNERIA - Despite the team having a clear home advantage, the pesky, pesky Mapletish Dragons. The Dragons are from a wonderful sporting nations but have not competed in basketball in a long time so their ranking and pot level as much lower than the teams talent level was. Mapletish nearly got a clutch three pointer at the end when Cedric Quinn lobbed a bomb of a shot but as it came down, it was clear the trajectory was off and the Maroons would win. It was a bit controversial of a shot in it's own right, if it had gone in it would have been a mute point but noticeably an open Manuel Ray could have made a better shot as he had a clutch 3 point shot late and was open from three point range. Quinn had been a bit better at shooting for the team, and probably had a clearer shot at the basket too. Alas it he didn't and the Maroons took the victory on a nice double double by Hakeem Wassad as him and McHicks were unstoppable, though McHicks missed time with a rolled up ankle that should see him miss a game. In the end it was the Maroons pulling of the squeeker and will now travel to Trolleborg, whose been a bit underwhelming this tourniment.

LEADING SCORERS
Xanneria 69
1.) H Wassad 22pts 5rbs 10ast
2.) L Faraday 14pts 7rbs 2stls
3.) T McHicks 12pts 3rbs 3ast (INJURED - Ankle - out 1week)

Mapletish 68*
1.) B Waters 20pts
2.) M Ray 18pts
3.) G Rice 15pts

Meet the Stadium: WITA Bus Service Wagner Diamond, Wagner

Built in 1988, the WITA Wagner Diamond is home to Wagners only top level prosport team. In fact, Wagner didn't have a FLOX team till a few years ago with the expansion of the FLOX to four fully pro tiers of football, the Wagner Islanders only had the Monarchs as a Pro Sport option. Wagner isn't isolated though, the Diamond as it is called is only a 5 minute drive to the ferry that takes you 15 minutes to get to Xannerias thrid largest city, Alexandria. Wagner is located on Wagner Island just north of the city and the stadium can host 8,000 local screaming fans each game.

*Mapletish pulled off his RP while I was typing mine up so I may edit this later.

by **Srednjaci** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 8:17 am

WORLD ARENA SPORT CHANEL 1

REPORTER DARKO IVIĆ: Dear viewers, welcome to Studio 2, Channel 1 on WAS TV.
Today we are back with basketball and IBC.
After watching the live broadcast of our national team last night, it is time to analyze and present the second game of ours.
With us in the studio is the president of the Srednjaci basketball association, Mr. Kurjak, the captain of our national team Davor Paradinović and the team manager Paolo Vitasović.
Guys, welcome.
First of all congratulations on a great party portiv Smosh Games. Smosh Games is the team that surprised TJUN in the first round.

VITASOVIC: Thank you.

REPORTER: Mr. Vitasovic, we saw two different editions of our team in two days. First a heavy defeat and then a big victory. What happened in the first round?

VITASOVIC: First we have to say that it was the first international basketball game in the history of Srednjak in a competition. There was a lot of pressure on the players, especially because we are one of the youngest teams ...

Kurjak interjected

KURJAK: and we are not carriers ...

VITASOVIĆ: That's right, we are not holders and we played against an objectively stronger team.

REPORTER: then came this second game and victory.

VITASOVIC: That's right. We knew nothing about the opponent, we filmed their game and saw where they were strong, where they were weak and how they surprised TJUN.

REPORTER: Davor, the atmosphere in the national team is certainly different now, unlike two days ago.

DAVOR: yes, we know our quality and we were in a convulsion in the first game, but we won this second one convincingly and now the atmosphere is very good. We all jumped self-confidence and we are very satisfied.

REPORTER: Let's look at the results and the situation in our group.

Group C
Squidroidia 65–76 TJUN-ia
SREDNJACI 75–56 Smosh games
Nova Anglicana 74–75 Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom

Group C                              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom              2    2   0   163  140  +23
2 Nova Anglicana                         2    1   1   171  144  +27
3 TJUN-ia                                2    1   1   149  140   +9
4 Srednjaci                              2    1   1   141  144   −3
5 Smosh games                            2    1   1   131  148  −17
6 Squidroidia                            2    0   2   134  173  −39

REPORTER: we see that [nation]Zeta Reka and Hügeltald[/nation] are the only team with two victories so far, we are fourth so far.
Have you studied our next opponent?

VITASOVIC: Yes, we are, it's a great team. In the first round they were braked like us but here we see that they are back on track.

REPORTER: Davor, what do you think about our next opponent?

DAVOR: uh, they are really great, in my opinion the favorites to win our group, I think it will be difficult for us but we also believe in their quality.

REPORTER: Mr. Kurjak, great atmosphere at the game yesterday.

KURJAK: yes it was fantastic, over 10,000 spectators and fans, really spectacular. Your viewers could see through the TV screen but to be there at that moment and be a part of that whole fan voice, really indescribable.

REPORTER: It is impossible to lose in such an environment.

KURJAK: Exactly.

REPORTER: let's look at part of that ambience.

DAVOR: Really fantastic.

REPORTER: Mr. Vitasovic, where is the greatest danger to us from TJUN-ia?

VITASOVIĆ: their shooters are the strongest side, they have a high percentage of shots and the creation of the game. We have to disrupt the flow of the ball and stop the shooters.

REPORTER: I hope you will achieve that.
When you see here at this championship as big favorites.

VITASOVIC: Well, Banija and Delaclava stand out, but there are other great teams. Somehow, according to the game shown so far, these two teams have shown the most.

REPORTER: Thank you for your visit, we believe that there will be a positive outcome in the next game and I wish you good luck.
Dear viewers, stay with us still, there will be a show related to the Winter Olympics and you can watch basketball on channel 4 and broadcast the game.

by **Hannasea** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 8:32 am

From the rolling news channel SuperBusiness.

Sabrina tries to bring up the Nateros Sill teamsheet but her electronic screen momentarily goes blank.

The name ‘Ethane’ flickers onto the screen – which then goes dead again.

The screen cycles on to Valladares as it flickers back to life.

the Hannasean national basketball team

by **TJUN-ia** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 9:22 am

After the mother of all upsets against Smosh games on opening day, you can understand the frustration Bao Zhou was feeling entering this contest in Squidroidia's opening day at the Mako Arena. He really tried to hammer into his players how they made fools out of themselves against an unranked team, so he expected much better ending this contest in Inkopolis (no, not our Inkopolis from one of the universes connected to U2. I don't think these inklings have ever heard of Panama or want to represent them).

As it turned out, this contest would certainly be better despite the crowd here trying their best to make life difficult for our Hoops-Jags. The Inklings certainly put up a good fight in this contest, with Ulisse McGovern especially being a pest to deal with at times, but the start power of the Top 10 Jags was just too much to handle for the 35th ranked team. Travarius Okuramangawa was on the hunt once again, shooting 14 by the first half and basically a man on fire. It was 34-26 to the Jags at half time, to Zhou allowed some more flexibility on the court by allowing more rotation from the bench. This saw some good play from players we rarely see get big minutes on the court, like Mickey Leach and Marco Smith and all the others. In the end, the Jags would come out the victors by 11 points, 76-65, and put the Zhou Dynasty back on track for the Finals in Deleclava.

TJUN-ia actually lost group position today as our defeat on MD1 really hurt us in terms of the H2H tiebreaker. Down the 5th, the best news I can produce is that one of the teams we are tied with, unranked Srednjaci, is up next at the Unity Centre, marking the first time in 4 years that the Jaguars have played in Riverside. Our international standing between there and now has certainly changed, so expect a raucous atmosphere for this homecoming of the ages. GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Group C)
MD1: @Smosh games (UR) L 73-75 (4th)
MD2: @Squidroidia (35) - Mako Arena, Inkopolis W 76-65 (5th)
MD3: vs Srednjaci (UR) - Unity Centre, Riverside
MD4: @Nova Anglicana (21) - National Arena, Londinium
MD5: vs Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (41) - Unity Centre, Riverside
----------------------------Break----------------------------
MD6: vs Smosh games (UR) - Unity Centre, Riverside
MD7: vs Squidroidia (35) - Unity Centre, Riverside
MD8: @Srednjaci (UR)
MD9: vs Nova Anglicana (21) - Unity Centre, Riverside
MD10: @Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (41)

by **Banija** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 9:32 am

Isaiah Lavaga walked up to the podium. It was time for pre-game press conferences here in Græntfjall before the Banijans would take on the IBC 30 hosts and their Group H rivals, the Super Wolves, here at IceBank New Park. It was Lavaga's first time in the country since, of course, their world title earned at IBC 30.

All-Banija Sports Magazine: "Coach Lavaga, how does it feel to come back to Græntfjall after you found so much success here last time? What does it mean to you?"

Isaiah Lavaga: "Well, of course, we do not want to spend all of our time dwelling on the past. But of course, after IBC 30, this is a very special place to me. That championship was fantastic. We came so close many times, and yet, had come up just short at basically every endeavor. An undefeated group stage on home soil at IBC 25, only to get curb stomped by Drawkland in the Round of 16. A great run at IBC 27 to the semifinals, only to get crushed by the machine that was Vangaziland. IBC 29, being tied in the final 20 seconds, but losing on a stunning four point play. And lost in the gold medal match of the Summer Olympics at home."

"Last year in Græntfjall, all of those losses were put behind us by us being able to overcome Newmanistan in the final. We had a lot of struggle- particularly in a 4 overtime game against Kriegiersien. But we played at an elite level for so much of that tournament, and when push came to shove in our closest games, we were able to make just enough plays on both ends to come out with a trophy. So yea, a lot of emotions were let out that night. Very fond memories in this country."

All-Banija Sports Magazine: "Coach Lavaga, what kind of challenge do the Super Wolves offer you today?"

Isaiah Lavaga: "This is a team that probably has more confidence now than they did in IBC 30. Even though they were playing on home soil then- they were still fresh and green to the scene. They've got plenty of potential to break into the upper tier of IBC nations. That tier, at least right now, is fairly obvious- Banija, Drawkland, Sarzonia, Quebec, Valanora, and Newmanistan. I expect their offense to run through Noel Skíðisson, as it usually does. He's a supremely talented player, with a great combination of size, skill, and defensive fundamentals. Our zone defense is designed to negate any sort of size disadvantage. But it can be a serious problem on the offensive end. Akabueze is four inches shorter than the man guarding him, Tom Farmansson. They will be tough to score on, and it will be a challenge to get our offense going."

All-Banija Sports Magazine: "Coach Lavaga, what is our path to improve our record to 15-0 in this country?"

Isaiah Lavaga: "Well, of course, like I said. They play sound, fundamental basketball- great defensive, smart at switching, and they can shoot. Fortunately, our defense is designed to play them off of the three point line. Force them into long, contested twos. And be aggressive against Noel Skíðisson. He is their offensive focal point, and it will surprise nobody to say that he will be our defensive focus. He'll get his points one way or another- but make him score them inefficiently, make our opponents take the focus of the 1-3-1 and put it on somebody else.

On offense, of course, our main man will be Ezekiel Bullo. They've got a size advantage at every position except for one, which is small forward. Bullo will have a 5 inch advantage on the man guarding him, who is Elias Karstensson. It'll be a tight game of adjustments and re-adjustments. That's a matchup we like. We're going to get him the basketball in all sorts of positions- on the block, on the perimeter, moving towards the basket. And if they switch up, get Bullo the ball in other positions. His combination of size and speed is tough for anybody to guard one on one. Just like Nabongo was nearly unstoppable against Mytanija, Bullo having a big game will be key to our chances here at IceNew Bank Arena. Bullo has the athleticism of a superstar and plays like one, and he will be the crucial factor to our offense."

Istria Eagle: "Coach Lavaga, you're a regent at the University of Loyola. You've heard about Bishop Thomas Young's retirement as University system President- do you have any comments on that?"

Isaiah Lavaga: "What is left to say? Bishop Thomas Young is a great man, who has done so much for Banija's premier University. I'm not a fan of the timing, of course- it will be a busy few weeks for me, helping the University lead a Presidential search while leading this team on the court. Normally, the two jobs do not interfere- as a Regent, I'm usually only called upon during the basketball offseason except for emergency circumstances. I will do my best here to coach the Banijan national team while staying involved in the Presidential search. I won't lead it, of course- but let's just say that I'll probably lose quite a few hours of sleep over the next few weeks, at minimum."

by **Saint-Domingues** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 9:58 am

Most Likely To... with Eustace, David, and Mama - Part 2
Q: Welcome back our most likely to, for the second part of the series. We've got Eustace Naudé, Mama Auclair, and David Bain here with us today to continue our game.

Q: Here's a popular question with fans. Who is the most likely to become a coach later in their career?

EN: Hm... David.

MA: David.

DB: I was going to say Mama! *laughs*

MA: No way!

DB: But no, it probably is me. I have been a bit of a coach's pet at times, I like to learn about how we play and improve my own understanding of how to play in order to improve. I was talking to Charles Duverger recently about being a leader and motivating people, we're both reading this book on motivational speaking now and trying to get better in how we communicate with people.

EN: I think you're the most studious of the game. You're the one who knows best with the tactics, which is why the coaches have always relied on you to pass the messages across the court for when we make changes.

DB: Yes, that is true. And Mama barely understands tactics so I think it does have to be me. I think you lads have convinced me, that will have to be my next career move.

Q: You've actually kind of answered the next question too, which is who is most likely to be called the coach's pet.

DB: Definitely me.

EN: Definitely.

MA: Anyone is compared to me.

Q: Who is the most likely to... have their music shut off in the dressing room?

MA: *sighs*

DB: He's doing that because it happened last game!

EN: It happens all the time.

MA: It really does...

EN: I sit next to him, and when he has headphones on, I can hear all kinds of sounds coming out of there. French, Spanish, English - do you even understand some of the stuff you listen to?!

MA: I like the sounds, man. I like a lot of sounds.

DB: Yeah, never a quiet moment with you. You've never been in the car with him, Eustace.

EN: You have?

DB: *shakes head* Never again. Never again.

MA: It wasn't so bad.

DB: It was so! First off, we almost died.

MA: *covers face*

DB: He drives so fast, I can't believe you still have your license. This lad has been a boy racer all his life. Then the music, man. It's all so loud, and a weird mix. One minute it's like Edith Piaf or something, then it's like the most loud EDM I've ever heard, then there was what I can only call white noise, then there was some... what do you call it? Waving-something?

MA: Vaporwave.

DB: I felt physically ill spinning around in the car listening to all that. And as you might guess we were late anyway. Drives so fast and never gets anywhere!

Most Likely To... will continue with a part three soon!

by **Juvencus** » Mon Feb 08, 2021 12:29 pm

THIS IS NOT A DAMN NEWSPAPER
By: Diego Bortelli

IMPRESSIVE SHOWING AS I CAVALLI RISE ABOVE RIVALS OSCIORU AND HUMBLE 2ND-SEEDS OMERICA

Crushing brethren in Oscioru and parking Omerica back to their line bring i Cavalli in first place alongside sports pals Drawkland

JUVENCUS 92-73 OSCIORU

We jumped straight in to competition on matchday one as i Cavalli and i Tauri faced each other once again. The deciding factor of this game was in fact confidence versus cockiness and the mainland Juvencus side showed its southerly brothers how the sport is meant to be played.

First period and Osci players decide to forget that basketball is a team sport, lots of misplaced passes, or showboating even, with loads of dunks and an early advantadge over the first 5 minutes. However weaknesses in the defensive backling of i Tauri was exactly what the Juven side was looking for. In fact the fire ignited after a foul to Pagani from Nascimbeni when he was about to dunk the ball in that caused a major havoc on the pitch. Reports say Nascimbeni said that "I am no Juven, get up p*ssy." to which Pagani responded with scoring both shots given to him and immediately intercepting the ball from him on the subsequent counter to score a new dunk and increase the difference. A humbling reply, but the first period ended in favor of the Juven side, 19-16.

Second period, i Cavalli put their pace to good use and increased the scoreline in their favor. Fans were on edge the entire time, in the stadium with very divided stands purposefully by the Delaclavan security people, the whole draw had -unbeknownst to Delaclavan officials- ignited a rivalry that has been running since the teams sent a united delegation to the winter olympics. Back to the game though, Eladio Accursio's 3-pointer ability had reached a level that could easily be described as Kobe-like, by certain humans on a planet called Earth. 3 out of 4 of his 3-pointer attempts went in and gave the Juven side a much clearer advantadge. Half time sees Juvencus lead good over loud-mouthed neighbours, 43-31.

The third and fourth periods were the same story essentially. Loads of quickly plays, loads of three-pointers. By the end Osci players got frustrated and started fighting the Juven side's players with managers and substitutions joining alike. Thankfully no fans invaded the pitch and the fighting was stopped by Delaclavan officials and security people before it got too serious. The final scoreline? 92-73, crushing.

Back in the divided city of Aguajú, riots have not calmed down since the Winter Olympics and this particular matchup has been enough to stir up so much worse. We heard reports of a small, yet violent skirmish near the heavily-guarded borderline check. Militant paramilitary groups have been going at it for god knows how long, so let's hope for a quick ending to this adversity and unnecessary division. The death toll has increased to 100 people and has been dubbed the Aguajú Conflict.

OMERICA 75-80 JUVENCUS

As far as I am concerned. We entered the pitch with our egos to heaven, I mean it. Like when has any Juven national team not been overconfident after a first victory? This match is no exception, out of all matches needed to be played, this would be very important in establishing a safe distance from the rest of the teams in the group and you see what happened?

Those Omericans and their wack French-speaking players got in a very heated and very French argument with our own side's players, and to be fair, Constantinescu had no business to cuss the entire team after a beautiful 3-pointer. He said and I quote "Your mothers won't be happy with this one." this of course enraged the Omericans, thank goodness they weren't Osci as this would've been massacre, great collectiveness from them, but goddamn, this could have been worse. But of course sh*t went down a bit after when Omericans started to magically increase the difference slowly but surely. First period and the scoreline was 16-10. Not exactly what you'd call a magic start.

Second period, same result. Constantino Mutu must have been frustrated. Off-position legitimately on every second of the game, no substitution seemed to fix that. Support was abysmal in the start too by the few fans that actually managed to support the team. The engine did not seem to get picked up. Omericans, did seem to pick up on that and increased the difference to a comfortable 36-29 by the end of the half-time. Said Omericans decided to be super insulting towards Constantinescu, who did manage to be Omerica's most hated basketball player in a metter of seconds. Omerican fans made a chant that goes like "Allez allez, go to hell Cesar Constantineeeee!!" which players did seem to support.

Mutu's half-time speech did seem to be inspiring, or maybe this spirit of adversity that somehow ignites the fire to every Juven spirit for some dumb reason. Whatever it was, it was as if the first half did not happen at all. Mutu let his players get used to the game and used much less substitutions in the third period. Constantinescu rose above all adversity so did Xoel Maradona, with each carrying the team a significant amount of the third period. Each basket scored was met by even louder reactions from Juven fans each time. Fired up as they are managed to somehow light up flares and the herbs within the closed stadium. Not sure which genius came up with that idea, but luckily it was not disruptive to the game. 56-55, difference reduced to the point, much to the delight of the fans and especially myself, as I have to write those articles.

Last period, wow... was that back and forth that we just witnessed? Do not look for the answer elsewhere, I have it ready for you. It was and it was a damn good 10-minute window to watch too. Maradona and Constantinescu almost getting in a fist fight with Xanthopoulos and Linville after collectively making fun of -you guessed it- their mothers once again. If those officials were not there, then the most hated team in the entire tournament would probably be the most beat too. But this fun mind-playing is what really gives Juven sides the advantadge over other sides. The last minute it all seemed that it would go on extra time. 75-75. 10 seconds pass, Barella finds an opening, he is fouled outside the 6-meter zone. Ball goes to the side, Gage to Barella, Barella to Maradona for the 3-pointer and Jesus Christ that curve was cartoonish, but it went in regardless. 75-78, defensive game really starts to go on, Omericans really want to counter-attack, they find no space, i Cavalli are all placed too well. 24 seconds wasted. We are approaching the end of the game, and just as the fire started, it ended the same way, Constantinescu goes through the entire Omerican defensive line and shatters the glass on the basket. He goes in front of Xanthopoulos very provocatively, reportedly saying "Our mothers are proud fucker, unlike yours!"

No idea how he did not get suspended, but with the scoreline 75-80 in favor of our side, this is a good sign. We move up to first place in conjunction to our Sonnel sports buddies, Drawkland from the other side of the pond. Next matchday is against Southwest Eastnorth, god bless our side, reports say that we have no idea who they are, but they seem alright, so our eyes better be focused on scoring a lot points to celebrate victory once again.

International Basketball Championship 31 (IC Thread)

FIRST DEFEAT OF SREDNJACI

FIRST WINN FOR SREDNJACI

DROP IT DOWN!: Back On Track In Not-Panama!

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