International Basketball Championships 23 (IC Thread)

by **Abaja** » Mon Mar 27, 2017 4:07 pm

Welcome to the 23rd International Basketball Championships!
Hosted By: Qasden and Abaja

USEFUL LINKS

Host Bid • IBC 23 Sign-Ups • IBC 22 • OOC Thread • Rankings

CUTOFFS: Cut-offs will be between the times of 100 UTC (9:00 PM EST) and 300 UTC (11:00 PM EST)
SCORINATORS: Xkoranate 0.3.3 Basketball Scorinator will be used for this event
GROUPS: Once Groups are set up, Qasden will be scorinating Groups A-D (Held in Abaja), and Abaja will be scorinating Groups E-H (Held in Qasden). Top Two teams in each group advance.
RP PERMISSIONS:

Code: Select all: My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following: Choose my Scorers: Yes/No Choose Scoring Events: Yes/No Godmod Scoring Events: Yes/No RP Injuries to my Players: Yes/No Godmod Injuries to my Players: Yes/No Godmod Other Events: Yes/No Style Modifier:

GROUPS

Group A
Abaja - Host [11]
Drawkland [17]
New Lusitania and the Algarves [UR]
Soltsteed [UR]
Nova Anglicana [30]

Group B
Free Republics [59]
Saint Kanye [1]
Nueva Celta [UR]
Cosumar [15]
PandaClaws [UR]

Group C
A Couple of People [UR]
West Saintland [13]
Flardania [28]
Ceni [8]
Corcra and Tir Trodaithe [UR]

Group D
Vettrera [10]
Kecrazia [UR]
Purple Rabbits [69]
The Iron Syndicate [UR]
Valanora [6]

Group E
Musterfield [UR]
Greater Churchill [UR]
Frenline Delpha [19]
Vangaziland [4]
Nueva Andalusia [33]

Group F
United States of Devonta [12]
Abahnfleft [2]
Adab [UR]
Empire of Cats [UR]
West Phoenicia [32]

Group G
Ethane [3]
Foodporn [UR]
Unified Sunrise Islands [18]
Newmanistan [UR]
Natanians and Nosts [47]

Group H
Qasden - Host [16]
Spaam [UR]
Jeckland [20]
Valladares [9]
Addled Braintopia [UR]

SCHEDULE

Monday, March 27 - Thread Posted
Tuesday, March 28 - Group Draw!
Thursday, March 30 - Match Day 1 - [2v5, 3v4]
Friday, March 31 - Match Day 2 - [5v3, 1v2]
Saturday, April 1 - Match Day 3 - [3v1, 4v5]
Sunday, April 2 - Match Day 4 - [1v4, 2v3]
Monday, April 3 - Match Day 5 - [4v2, 5v1]

Tuesday, April 4 - Break

Wednesday, April 5 - Match Day 6 - [5v2, 4v3]
Thursday, April 6 - Match Day 7 - [3v5, 2v1]
Friday, April 7 - MATCH DAY 8 DELAY
Saturday, April 8 - Match Day 8 - [1v3, 5v4]
Sunday, April 9 - Match Day 9 - [4v1, 3v2]
Monday, April 10 - Match Day 10 - [2v4, 1v5]

Wednesday, April 12 - Round of Sixteen (Game 1)
Thursday, April 13 - Round of Sixteen (Game 2)
Friday, April 14 - Round of Sixteen (Game 3, if needed)

Sunday, April 16 - Quarter Finals (Game 1)
Monday, April 17 - Quarter Finals (Game 2)
Tuesday, April 18 - Quarter Finals (Game 3, if needed)

Thursday, April 20 - Semi Finals (Game 1)
Friday, April 21 - Semi Finals (Game 2)
Saturday, April 22 - Semi Finals (Game 3 if needed)

Monday, April 24 - Finals/Third Place (Game 1)
Tuesday, April 25 - Finals/Third Place (Game 2)
Wednesday, April 26 - Finals/Third Place (Game 3 - if needed for 3rd Place)
Thursday, April 27 - Finals (Game 4, if needed)
Friday, April 28 - Finals (Game 5, if needed)

IBC 23 is now underway!

by **Abaja** » Mon Mar 27, 2017 4:08 pm

All About Abaja

Overview
Abaja, officially the Federal Republic of Abaja, is a large, devout nation found in the West Pacific. The some-what corrupt yet strong economic nation composes of 8 states, with a population of over 88.99 million people (2017). Though the nation doesn't focus so much on Political Freedom, they do have a pretty stable economy. With Abaja still being a developing country, there are many crimes that take place in the nation. The Northeast is considered one of the more poorer areas in the nation. That's why no city in the Northeast is hosting any games (l0l).

Geography
The land area of Abaja is 317,510 mile² and majority of Abaja's land is a flat, savanna type of landscape. Jagi Falls, Mountain Ranges stretch from Northwest Abaja to Southwest Abaja. Mount Kimpachi, with a height of 18,034 ft, is the highest point on Abajan soil. Lake Deszinma is the largest lake in Abaja and has a size of 26,564 mi² and stretches from west to near central Abaja. Then there is the Abaja City River. The Abaja City River stretches from Kingston all the way to the east coastline. Sandy beaches and crystal clear waters bring millions to the east coast beaches near Queens and Jabola, along with even more people to visit Jagi Falls in southwest Kingston, near Lake Deszinma.

Languages and Religion
Majority of Abajans are Christians, with a large amount of Muslims in the population. Together, they make up a whopping 97.3% of the population (73.1% Christianity, 24.2% Islam), which would be pretty scary for non-religious people, who only make up a tiny 0.3% of the population. No need to worry though. Religious Abajans know better to attack another person because of their belief/unbelief. Just as long as you are nice to them, they will be nice back.
The Federal Republic of Abaja has five national languages. English is the most common and used language in the country. Many people in Northern Abaja speak Arabic. Combined, Abajan English and Arabic speakers make up 72% of the population. What are the other languages? Those are: Swahili, Guanda, and Abaji (AH-BAHJ). Swahili is commonly spoken in villages and small towns such as Al-Qawi, a small city of 13,000 found in the northeast part of the country. Guanda and Abaji (I made those up) together only make up 14% of the population, but the amount of Guanda/Abaji speakers have steadily increased since 2013.

Foods, Weather, Transportation
Foods and dishes in Abaja can range from white rice and stew, a variety of soups, meatpies, an salads. Food restaurants flood the country, filled with many types of meals and desserts that every customer is bound to like. The most famous restaurant, called "Isum's Cuisine" serves shrimp and fried rice with veggies, mushroom soup, kebabs, fufu, and many other mouth watering foods. Want to watch the IBC 23 live? Go to any bar around the block. Invite your friends. It's always better that way.

Weather is the eastern part of Abaja is typically cooler than the western part, with an average temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, while the western half typically get 72-73 degrees Fahrenheit. Though the east has more enjoyable temperatures than the west, it has a much higher amount of rainfall, which means lots of floods. Floods normally occur during the summer times and early fall times and the greatest chance for floods in the country would be around the Queens-Jabola area, located near the east coast. We aren't exactly in the summer yet, so you don't have to worry about that.

Walking, taking the city bus, taking the subway, getting a taxi, riding a bike, or riding an airplane are all different types of transportation found in Abaja. Many people in Abaja are walkers, meaning the sidewalks can be packed, along with the roads. Having a "not-so-big" country being packed with almost 89 million, it can be tough to get around. On a bad day, people can spend hours in the same spot due to extreme traffic. Athletes coming into the country don't have to worry about that, though. If roads are congested, there are airplanes to ride to get from place to place. If you want to drive a car to get to Kingston, there is a special bridge called the "Interstate Bridge" that branches off from Jazzville to Kingston. Using this bridge is encouraged because it would take a much shorter time going through the bridge instead of having to drive around the giant Lake Deszinma just to get to the same destination.

ZorgadiAir Arena

Capacity: 18,480
Built: 2016
City: Olulawi, Abaja
Sponsor: ZorgadiAir (Foreign Company)
Home Team: Olulawi Fireflames (ANBL)

Olulawi is the Capital of Abaja and is also the third most populous city in the country with 3.9 million residents. The city is well known for it's Capitol building, found just east of the city. Olulawi, being one of the oldest and most historical cities in Abaja, the city is no stranger to sports - especially basketball. Almost every game, this Arena is filled with at least 16,000 people from inside and outside the city. Olulawi's involvement of the ZorgadiAir Corporation has benefited greatly on the city's transportation system, meaning cheaper, more consistent flights. This soon led to the construction of the "ZorgadiAir Arena" in 2015. By August 2016, the ZorgadiAir Arena was officially opened. This arena is currently the second newest basketball arena in Abaja

Groups: Group B Leg 2, Group D Leg 1,

Wallis Center

Capacity: 20,100
Built: 1965
City: Abaja City, Abaja
Sponsor: Wallis Bank (Banking Company)
Home Team: Abaja City Eagles (ANBL)

Abaja City, AKA "ABJ City" is the second most populous city in Abaja with a population of 4.6 million. The Abaja City River flows through the light-filled city with a 1,211 mile stretch. Abaja City is the largest and one of the safest cities to live in Abaja, along with having the highest minimum wage in the country. Cool temperatures range from 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and a warm 75-90 degrees in the summer. H.R Wallis (1898-1976) was the founder of the "Wallis Bank" which was established in Abaja City in 1954. Even to today, this bank is still the most used bank in Abaja. This is what inspired the city to name the Eagle's court after Wallis, called the "Wallis Center", which is the second oldest ANBL basketball arena in the country. Abaja City is also known for 2 major Universities (University of Ugaji and Abaja City University). Abaja City University, filled with 44,281 students, has the most successful basketball programs in Abaja. The "Abaja City Panthers" won their 16th championship in 2016, led by Small Forward Malik al-Zalahwi, who currently plays for the the Morano Flood for the San Llera basketball league.

Groups: Group B Leg 1, Group D Leg 2

Crown Center

Capacity: 17,830
Built: 1964
City: Queens, Abaja
Sponsor: Crown (Electronic Company)
Home Team: Queens Bullets (ANBL)

Queens is currently the sixth most populous city in Abaja with 2.8 million inhabitants. Queens is located near the Abajan east coast and receives the highest amount of rainfall. About 5-6 times a year, floods of up to 3-4 feet occur in the southeastern part of the city. These excessive floods can cause a hindrance for people moving in and out of the city, which is why watching the weather channel is highly recommended before wanting to move. The history of Queens was filled with royalty from Britonisea. When Abaja was colonized by Britonisea in 1855, when the Royal Family of Anglorebrit ruled. The Britonish colonized the area so that they can gather up natural resources and merchandise. They first named the city "Queensland", after the Queen of Britonisea who first went through the land of the city, but then changed the name to "Queens" three years later. Until 1913, the family ruled.

Groups: Group A Leg 2, Group C Leg 1

Eyeugbé Arena

Capacity: 16,400
Built: 1968
City: Kingston, Abaja
Sponsor: Eyeugbé (Car)
Home Team: Kingston Falcons (ANBL)

Kingston is the most populous and third largest city in the Country. With approximately 8.8 million inhabitants, there are tons of new people to meet any many more places to visit. The Kingston Beach, also called the "Crystal Beach" attracts a total of 3 million people a year! Kingston also has the third smallest poor-rich gap in the country. Basketball in Kingston has sprouted significantly since 2005, and the amount of basketball fans exploded in 2013, when the Kingston Falcons won their second ANBL Championship (The first one was in 1984). Harrison Eyeugbé, a Kingston citizen and inventor, founded "Eyeugbé", a car company, in 1953. Eyeugbé was the most used car in Abaja from 1954 to 1977, until new foreign cars came in.

Groups: Group C Leg 2, Group A Leg 1

Alkón Arena

Capacity: 19,460
Built: 1974
City: Menusa, Abaja
Sponsor: Alkón (Delivery Service)
Home Team: Menusa Blues (ANBL)

Menusa is filled with many who speak a variety of languages and is the most diverse city in Abaja. With a population of 3.6 million residents, Menusa currently has the highest population growth rate with an increase of over 200,000 people in the past year alone. Menusa's weather is quite low compared to the average "Western type" weather, with an average temperature of 66 degrees Fahrenheit, 7 degrees cooler than it's neighboring western cities. Menusa is also said to have the second highest high school graduation percentage (behind Ikeland). Basketball in Menusa sprouted when Armani Welch (who currently plays on the national team) was drafted in 2004 to the Menusa Blues of the ANBL.
Since then he has won 2 championships with the Blues (2010 and 2016). We hope the Ro16'ers and 3PPO'ers enjoy playing in the famous Alkón Arena.

Games:3PPO games 1&3

ABAJAN NATIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM

RP Permissions

Choose my point scorers: YES
Gmod Scoring Events: NO
Give my players fouls: YES
Foul my players:YES
Give my players technical/flagrant fouls: YES
Eject my players: YES (No more than 2)
Give injuries to my players: YES (But no killing or career ending injuries)
Godmod injuries to my players: NO
Godmod other events: NO

INFO
Country Name: The Federal Republic of Abaja
Nickname: Lions
Trigramme: ABJ
Style Mod: -3.0
Demonym: Abajan
Past Appearances: IBC 17, IBC 20, IBC 21, IBC 22
Head Coach: Yuhan Anekwe (Since IBC 17)
Captain: Jacob Nessal

ROSTER

PG: #7 Armani Welch (Age 31, 6'2'', 190 lbs) -Team: Menusa Blues (ABJ)
SG: #12 Jacob Nessal (Age 26, 6'4'', 209 lbs) -Team: Queens Bullets (ABJ)
SF: #10 Pápá Mouyre (Age 29, 6'8'', 243 lbs) -Team: Ikeland Speed (ABJ)
PF: #31 Alanye R'Andi (Age 32, 6'10'', 248 lbs) -Team: Kingston Falcons (ABJ)
C: #27 Joseph Olu (Age 23, 7'2'', 270 lbs) -Team: Abaja City Eagles (ABJ)

BENCH

PG: #3 Stephen Érénshé (Age 26, 6'2'', 188 lbs) -Team: Coopalo Nets (ABJ)
SG: #22 Calvin Anelé (Age 25, 6'5'', 220 lbs) -Team: Olulawi Fireflames (ABJ)
SG: #13 Damian Marakwo (Age 20, 6'4, 201 lbs) -Team: (QAD)
SF: #48 Mathew Ojeije (Age 29, 6'7'', 235 lbs) -Team: Menusa Blues (ABJ)
SF: #23 Michael Dísung (Age 31, 6'8'', 227 lbs) -Team: Abaja City Eagles (ABJ)
PF: #42 Jola Nicholson (Age 22, 6'10'' 265 lbs) -Team: Coopalo Nets (ABJ)
PF: #35 Vincent Osu (Age 32, 6'9'' 250 lbs) -Team: (QAD)
C: #20 Mbade Grette (Age 25, 7'0'' 270 lbs -Team: Banasi Bulldogs (ABJ)

by **Qasden** » Mon Mar 27, 2017 4:08 pm

WELCOME TO QASDEN!

Such quality resolution. Very map.

The Principality of Qasden is a small but loud landlocked nation located on the Azeurian continent of Atlantian Oceania, bordering Geisenfried to the southwest and the tip of Milchama, also in the southwest. Home to approximate 20 million Qads, the country is a haven when it comes to sports enthusiasts. With 97% of the 'pality's population being perpetually involved in some kind of contest, the nation ranks as possibly one of the most sport-loving and competitive countries in southwestern Atlantian Oceania, most likely behind Valanora and Farfadillis. Soccer, basketball, and tennis come in as the 3 most popular sports in Qasden, followed quickly behind by handball, table tennis, and ice hockey.

The People

As noted above, the citizens of Qasden are highly competitive and highly obsessed with sporting events and contests. Despite these initial personalities (most commonly found in shamrock pubs and stadiums), the Qad people are truly kind, always willing to help foreigners cope the fact that they're stuck with a bunch of crazy cat people for the next few weeks. 85% of Qasdonians (or Qad, for short) live within the urban/suburban vicinities of Qasden's largest cities by the river that makes up the country's "coastline". With that being said, 91% have at least 1 cat in their household at anytime, so beware to those with feline allergies!

The Touristy Stuff

Visitors of Qasden will be welcomed from the moment they touch down in T.V. City International Airport to the moment they leave, wallets emptied and hands full with Qad clutter they will surely trash within the next week. Walking around Turkish Van City, the nation's capital, tourists can expect to see sights such as the Royal Qasdonian Palace, residence of Prince FP, the infamous Royal T.V. Stadium, the Astrix Market/Bazaar, and cats as far as the eye can see. Each of Qasden's 5 host cities each have their own collectibles, ranging from the fine china in the pristine capital to the rusty cat tail-shaped fish hooks of Port Harston. Heck, you can even get a generic shirt if you want! The Qad currency can be converted as $1 = $1.33 NSD.

The Cuisine and Weather

Qasden's dining experience, like it's collectibles, vary from city to city. In T.V. City, fine dining is the way to go in the expensive and elegant "Southern Quarters" neighborhood (or "haven", as neighborhoods are referred as in Qasden). However, on the city's outskirts, such as the Adamant Borough haven, you can expect to find delicious pig-out buffets and the best dang bar-food this side of AO. Most notable, however, are Pritzy's Reed Sticks in Port Harston, made with cat tails and all that good plant stuff. Weatherwise, the nation suffers from a very bipolar system, with some days being dismal and sunny and others being happy and stormy. Snow can only be found in the mountainous border regions of the southwest, but has reportedly fell as far north as Taxson and Elder before.

The Venues

The catergory you are all waiting for. The principality of Qasden is home to over 150 different stadiums for a variety of sports, ranging in importance. For the International Basketball Champiobships, 5 stadia in 5 different cities have been chosen to represent the hosting country. The following go in order of: Group E, F, G, H, and KO—

Port Harston - Wharf Center 1 (19,500)

Located in the uptown Heart haven of Port Harston, WC1 serves as the largest and most internationally recognized of the 5 Wharf Centers of the city. Complete with air conditioning, a swimming pool, an arcade, a mini food court, and the crown basketball court itself, "The King of the Wharf" takes the cake a step Harston's best indoor stadium. Fans of group E shall enjoy the game from the martini bar.

Destiny - Korbov Arena (22,750)

Oh what? How did Destiny make the venues list?! Oh well. The Korbov Arena is the third largest venue in the city of Destiny, behind the stadia of Destiny FC and Opal United. Home of the Destiny Demons, "Korbovia" can house a maximum occupancy of 40,000 at a time, and as host of group F, this may be the arena's big moment. Visitors can enjoy the scenery surrounding Korbovia through its massive glass panes, complete with a nice bite to eat at Korbov's Parodysian-Arioslavian Cuisine. Enjoy the mountains, Group F'ers .

Fyre - Centre de Solis (27,000)

The better half of the mountainous duo of Fyre-Destiny, Fyre is the "Denver of Qasden". Not sure what or where this "Denver" is, but we'll just take that as a compliment. Anyways, the Centre de Solis takes shape in the Red Light haven of the winter wonderland. Home to the Fyre IceKings and Lunas, SdS is the most internationally recognized stadium of the Qad portion, having hosted a few games and a semifinal at the 26th World Lacrosse Championships. Fans can enjoy the glorious culture of PIS-like wonders across the metropolitan vicinity. The centre itself comes equipped with multiple restaurants and stores, and don't be surprised to see random Geisenfried fans in the crowd waving their home flags no matter what. Here will host the group G games.

Qad City - The Snake Pit (40,00)

One of the crown victorias of the nation's 2nd largest city, TSP is home to the ever-so famous Qad City Mambas, one of QIBA's most prestigious teams. Not to mention the superior Real Qad City, the beautiful and ironically named "Ghost Town" haven is Qad City's economic and sports epicenter. Fans of Group H teams (including that of one of the host nations) can enjoy the accommodations of the Pit, including tons of club levels and restaurants. So, who's gonna strike rich in Q-town?

T.V. City - MaxCap Stadium (68,000)

If you thought the last stadium was cool. "The Cap" is the largest fully-indoor arena in all of Qasden. The beloved home to the T.V. City Blues and Monarchs, as well as the second home to millions of basketball fanatics, MaxCap supplies attendees with multiple amenities, most notably being the only permanent Feasties' restaurant in the entire multiverse. While no groups will play here in specific. MaxCap will however host 1 Round of 16 series and either the final or 3PPO.

by **Drawkland** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 6:27 am

DRAWKLAND NET CORPS
Basketball is an avid sport in Drawkland, with huge cheering crowds and near-constantly playing pep bands the norm. If you've never been to a basketball game in Drawkland, you may want to bring a pair of earplugs. Or two. You'll need them. We get hyped, ~~maybe too much so~~.

As you may notice, the Drawkian team is sorta massive, as far as height goes. This is perfectly natural for Drawkians, as the national height average is 7'5" (they're not related to humans evolutionarily besides the shape and proportions and such). They also may seem like they're "middle-aged," but that's wrong. In fact, most professional Drawkian athletes are between the ages of 20 and 50. Again, this is perfectly natural, as the average lifespan is about 150 and the body doesn't "peak" until about 50 or 60.

After a rather close group stage last edition and getting squashed in the Round of 16 for the twice edition in a row (once by Royal Kingdom of Quebec, once by Vangaziland, and once by now co-host Abaja), the Net Corps is ready to bring some heavy firepower and get even further this edition, for once.

This time, instead of going the basic "All-Star team" route, the Drawkian International Sporting Council (DISC) hand-picked team members, some high performers from last edition, a couple different all-star club players, and even a few collegiate players who REALLY shined in the NSCAA. This same team will go to the Olympic Games.
The team is Co-Ed, and coaches were selected from the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion team's head coaches from last year's championships. The 3rd coach is the head coach of the current champion collegiate team. Same squad as always. We dunno what's gonna happen here, but hopefully we break the Round of 16 this time.

Also, you may notice a lot of the players are way younger than they were listed in the previous editions. This is because the paperwork sent in to the IBC the last 3 editions was actually erroneously recorded several decades older than they actually are (except for the new college students). We don't know why that happened, but that guy probably got fired by now. We hope.

Many thanks to Saint Kanye for these kits!

INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 23; DRAWKLAND NET CORP ROSTER

Head Coach:  Cody Morgan     54   ^Metropolon Towers
Asst. Coach: Sally Hardin    49   *Corinth City Burners
Asst. Coach: Tom Chalk       58   ^Drawk Corps University

STARTERS

#   Pos.  Player             Height     Age    National Club
00   C    Gerald Madison     7’6”       32     ^Drawk Corps
10   F    Darren Roser       7’2”       23     ^Jabola Boom  [ABJ]
11   F    Brian Campbell     7’7”       27     ^Metropolon Towers
20   G    Taveon Holland     7’6”       27     ^Drawk Corps
21   G    Autumn Trallen     7’11”      30     *Corinth City Burners

RESERVES

#   Pos.  Player             Height     Age    National Club
01   C    Hailey Rider       7’5”       26     *Cove Port Icebreakers
02   C    Jazmin Madison     8’0”       23     *Drawk Corps University
13   F    Will Accursio      7’8”       23     ^Cemmendy Tech
14   F    Clara Vandertrump  6’11”      33     *Krakon Blacksmiths
22   G    Lillya Restici     7’2”       29     *Katrafore Wolves
23   G    Alex Jensen        7’9”       29     ^Clerandon Rackets
24   G    Anne Russell       7’5”       33     *Endertown Pearls
25   G    Roxanna Abel       7’4”       31     *Ducentu Sailors
30   G    Erik Antonise      7’1”       25     ^Elmanden District College
33   G    Mary Herriford     7’9”       39     *Rejaka Wildcats


^ = Denotes Male
* = Denotes Female
Collegiate Players in Italics

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Nothing tourney-ending.
Godmod Injuries to my Players: Probably, but TG first.
Godmod Other Events: Yeah, go ahead.

Style Modifier: +3

I'm always up for plotlines, TG me.

by **Newmanistan** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 9:39 am

NEWMANISTAN ROCKETS- IBC 23

“Two Time IBC Champions”

Basketball in Newmanistan: Basketball has a solid following in Newmanistan, though the fans are drawn to the college level a little moreso then the pros. It’s popularity is regional in nature, with the Loudon area in northeast Newmanistan being the most fanatical towards the sport and that is the reason the Emperor has chosen Loudon to be home base for the team and not the traditional spots of Tundra Falls and Pocono City. This is a competition that Newmanistan had success in back in the day, winning both IBC 4 and 5. That was a long time ago, but the Empire is hoping to re-assert itself in the competition.

Basketball is played differently in Newmanistan. There is an additional line behind the three-point line that serves as a four-point line. Shots behind the half-court line are worth six points. Players are taught how to shoot from longer then expected distances at a young age, so they will have a level of success at these shots. Be aware of this in the IBC, because while the four-point line will not exist in the tournament, our players are comfortable putting up shots from distances that you’re team might not be used to having to tightly defend. They are unlikely to put up shots from beyond the half court line, though, in this tournament. Within the halfcourt, be expecting a shot from anywhere.

Coach: James Parsons, 58 (Loudon Leopards)
Home Area: “The Jungle” (Loudon Stadium), Loudon. Capacity: 19,441
Uniforms: Envision the uniforms of the University of North Carolina as the best comparison.

Starting Five:

SF: Daquan Wilson, 28 (6'9", Putnam Lake Eagles) (#34)
PF: Jaylon Wright, 26 (6'10", Southport Tigers) (#33)
C: Travis Brown, 29 (7'4", Tundra Falls Saints) (#50)
SG: Kenny Atwood, 25 (6'2", Loudon Leopards) (#11)
PG: Quinton Fayne, 26 (6'5", Loudon Leopards) (#3)

– Atwood and Fayne are the playmakers of the lineup. In particular, Fayne will put up a shot from anywhere on the court at home, and in this tournament he is the one that will have to be closely guarded at all times. Atwood will put up the long shot as well, as will Wilson if you forget about him. Brown is more then just a giant in the paint. He will camp out there and look to grab rebounds, and is often successful, at both ends of the court. Defensively, he is a star, and tactically smart, making him tough to beat. Wright is good on the boards as well.

Bench:
F: Jake Kenwood, 29 (6'7", Centralia Cougars) (#44)
F: Carnell Larribee, 28 (6'9", Pocono City Capitals) (#32)
F/C: Byron Storm, 23 (7'2", Olympia Gladiators) (#55)
C: Tiberius Connelly, 24 (6'11", Springfield Thoroughbreds) (#45)
G: Rick Dunne, 28 (6'1", Dover City Mountaineers) (#23)
G: Dwayne Murray, 21 (6'4", Brighton Bulls) (#4)
Utility: Sheik Mohammed, 25 (6'7", South Charlotte Condors) (#21)

All of these players are stars at home, therefore Newmanistan will not hesitate to put any of them in when necessary. Murray is blossoming into an amazing shooters, and leads the Empire in 4-point and 6-point shooting percentage.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Yes, but only say they are hurt. I will determine the severity.
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Other Events: No
Style Modifier: +4 if the max is +5, please. If the max is +3, then set us at +2.

by **Ceni** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 10:45 am

CENIAN NATIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM - IBC 23
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CENTER - ORION DARKSTAR - 24 years old - DNS United
Playing for Southpoint Technical College in the NSCAA, Orion Darkstar, and his school, were left out of most pundits' early predictions, but the school surprised all the commentators, with Darkstar at the heart of the team's effort, with an overall excellent point differential, indicating Darkstar's ability not only to shoot well, but also to defend well. After the Technicall College stopped funding its basketball program, Darkstar was poached by defending champions the University of Cenial and had another successful season of college basketball before being selected for professional team DNS United upon his graduation.

POWER FORWARD - ASHUR EL-AMIN - 22 years old - New Oxford Mercury
Ashur El-Amin may be one of the most prolific scorers for his team but also led the University of New Oxford (and, now, the New Oxford Mercury) in the defense as well, the very model of an all-around player who excels on both ends of the court. He is of somewhat average height, like many Cenians, but makes up for that with an with an excellent lay-up and three-point shot; his rebound is actually his best basketball move. He has worked well with his team both in the NSCAA and in the CeniHoops, and might be getting reliable playing time, especially considering how well his team has done both in CeniHoops and the NSCAA, with New Oxford reaching the Final Four four years ago, only losing in a tight game against Sadeg State.

SMALL FORWARD - WES JARIK - 30 years old - New Oxford Mercury
Wes Jarik is a very accurate foul-shooter and three-point shooter that tries to get fouls called on him pretty easily; he is one of the smaller players in the game, and is versatile on the defense, using that small height to his advantage to guard players of different heights and abilities. He serves as a pivot between a lot of the different parts of the Cenian basketball game; passing, shooting, rebounding, and blocking are all part of his responsibilities for the team. He played extremely well for the New Oxford Mercury, a team which achieved second place, in the new CeniHoops basketball league.

SHOOTING GUARD - ACE STARGAZER - 29 years old - Whitehaven Storm
Ace Stargazer is a bit of an unusual name for an unusual man. He's one of the tallest players on the Cenian team, and can play with the best of the best in the defense and the offense. He is a good ball handler and passes well; additionally, he has a good guarding motion due to his height. He also switches with Wes Jarik as small forward and is instrumental in creating lots of plays with his passing ability. Most importantly, Stargazer is responsible for scoring, and that he does with a vengeance, with an extremely accurate jump shot and dunk, both due to his height.

POINT GUARD - NEIL HALCYON - 27 years old - Cenial Phoenix
Neil Halcyon is perhaps the savior of the Cenian team in this tournament. He is a good all-around player, but as the point guard, he specializes in creating plays and assists for his teammates. Known as a leader on the court, Halcyon is an excellent reader of other players and has a strategy and sticks to it. However, with this in mind, he has the capacity to surprise a defense by either driving in for a basket or hitting a three-pointer; he is extremely versatile in this regard, but mostly known for hitting great three pointers at a high accuracy rate. He led Cenial Phoenix to the title in the new CeniHoops league, and their first international title, showing off his calm demeanor and his basketball skills.

CENTER - ARALUS MAR-SHAYAL - 22 years old - Endemian College at Whitehaven
Mar-Shayal, the older brother of fellow basketball talent Kel, broke onto the stage with his wonderful performance at the Endemian College at Whitehaven, leading his team to a respectable showing in the NSCAA tournament overall. Tall and thin, Mar-Shayal is definitely capable of using his height to project power across the court; he excels with three-point shots and dunks, and is surprisingly quick for such a tall player. Not only can he score, though, he can defend as well, with an excellent rebound statistic and a good performance at blocking shots as well. Overall, Mar-Shayal makes an excellent center because of his combination of offensive and defensive skills, quickness, and hight, which allows him to effectively keep the team going.

POWER FORWARD - JAVIER AIZA - 22 years old - Huracán Norteño
Aiza takes quite a lot of initiative on the court and has a good passing and rebounding game. He often serves as a link between the offense and the defense on his team but says he has a better defensive game, working well to harry the opposition team and getting them to make mistakes. Aiza is in the mid-height wing for a basketball player, only around six foot four, but still manages to get into his rebounding role with quite a bit of creativity to make up for his lack of height. He was the guiding force for both his CeniHoops team, Huracán Norteño, and for the University of Ceni-Santiago, which was the surprise fourth seed in the entire NSCAA.

SMALL FORWARD - PHILLIP LOMAX - 26 years old - Cenial Phoenix
Although the University of Ceni underperformed in their conference, getting only 4th in the regular season, they won their conference championship to get into the Ultra 64. Lomax was one of the better players in his school and one of the better small forwards throughout the Cenian schools in NSCAA. As a small forward, he leads the team on offense and dunks while working in the man-to-man defense to deny the opposition shots. As a player, he works well with coaches who have a fast style of play, as he likes to be aggressive and shoot the ball a lot.

SHOOTING GUARD - ERIC ELGIN - 24 years old - Cenial Phoenix
Although Elgin was overlooked for the national team after conference play with the University of Cenial, where the team had to sneak in the Ultra 64 by way of at-large seeding, Elgin - and the team - had a renaissance in the Ultra 64 itself, going undefeated to win the NSCAA 7 title, defeating both the number 2 and 1 seeds (Corinth City and Sadeg State, both from Drawkland) along the way. Quite successful in the tournament, Elgin is a quintessential combo guard or tweener player in basketball; he swaps around positions and has quite a fluid style of play, on the offense and the defense. On the offense, he has a nice three-point shot and a good dunk, due to his height, and he's a very good team player, working with others to pass and score as it allows. He somewhat doubles as a center as well, despite his nominal position of shooting guard, due to his height and ability to rebound, dunk, and score. It takes a lot to get past Elgin in the defense as well as he likes to maintain a monopoly on the ball to prevent the offense from scoring, and he has an excellent hook shot to boot.

POINT GUARD - KIANA KE'SAHNDRHAN - 26 years old - Whitehaven Storm
The only woman on this team, Ke'Sahndrhan has the misfortune of being a point guard with the eminent Cenian Neil Halcyon occupying the starting spot on the national team. Playing for Whitehaven Naval Academy in the NSCAA, she outshone some of the more touted pre-season players as her team won their conference and did fairly well in the NSCAA Ultra 64 tournament. The navy believed in teamwork and Ke'Sahndrhan was no exception; as the point guard for her team, she is responsible for much of the passing going on with her team and excels in that regard, and as the point guard for her team, she's an excellent leader on the pitch.

by **The Iron Syndicate** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 11:07 am

THE IRON SYNDICATE NATIONAL TEAM

The Black Arrows

The Iron Syndicate is a massive and futuristic country located in the Sea of Iron, between Rushmore and Esportiva and Atlantian Oceania, and that country is unique in that it's run by a large coalition of corporations that have banded together to bring a higher standard of life to their islands and to advance technological progress and prosperity. The country itself is made up of dozens of islands with varying climates, with the northern ones generally being warm, the southern ones generally being cool, and the middle ones being temperate. The nation has been self declared to be the Most Decadent Place On Earth, and is ruled by the Executive Board, an elected group of leaders that is responsible for all national decisions. The official leader of the country is the Chief Executive, and for now, that position is held by Augustus Darkstar, who is on his third term.

Basketball is a well liked sport around the islands because of its marketability. The stars of the game are highly marketed, the game itself is easy to rig to create popular and marketable narratives, and overall, basketball is a huge corporate machine on the islands. There are plenty of rumors that the Syndicate Basketball League, or SBL, is as rigged as wrestling and that the player personalities are all fake personas created to get money from advertisers and merchandise sales, but the league has stated multiple times that it's all conjecture and that nobody has proved this. Regardless, the game is still growing at a rapid pace and that growth is accelerated by the social media platforms growing too, and giving players a new voice to become superstars in the most individualistic sport that there is.

TEAM INFO
Nickname: The Black Arrows
Colors: Blue, white, and black
Style Modifier: +5
Home Arena: Ceres Motors Arena at Portus(30,000)
Fan Group: The Iron Guard is the number one supporter group for Syndicate sports, and can be spotted by the rowdy atmosphere they bring to every home and away game as well as their black and gold banners.

ROSTER
Note: Some players will not have full names and will instead have shortform names with a first name and a one letter surname, that take the place of their longform ID designations. Most of these players come from the Syndicate's space territories.
STAFF

Head Coach - Robin Hechevaria - 53 - Red Hill Lions: The one who stepped up to lead the new basketball team is the head coach of the Red Hill Lions, one of the moderately successful teams of the SBL that hasn't had a great track record when it comes to winning championships but that has given us many great players and exciting prospects. Player development is his specialty, meaning that we should expect to see the players grow in different areas as his tenure gets longer. Additionally, the Lions are known for their free flowing offense that leaves a lot of decisions in the hands of the players and allows the stars of the team to take over the game plan and use their skills to the fullest. At the very least, his tactics will be exciting to see for the national team.

Assistant Coach - Jake Rossi - 44 - Portus Pirates: Assisting Robin Hechevaria is Jake Rossi, the head coach of the Portus Pirates, the beloved team from the capital that's one of the most successful in national history. This isn't their first time together; Jake was an assistant for Robin's team in Red Hill years ago, and now that he's in charge of a team of his own, he's installed the all out attacking game plan of his mentor, making him a good fit to help put that plan into action with the national team.

STARTERS

#8 PG - Sol Star - 21 - 6'8 - Unattached: Who is this kid? Sol Star was included on the team mysteriously, and nobody recognizes his face or has seen him play. He hasn't played pro basketball, or even college basketball, and he might not have even played in high school. There's video of him playing street ball in the parks in the big cities, and he has amazing skills, though. His court vision is nothing short of incredible, he moves like someone far smaller, and his passing is second to none. He has shooting mechanics that have been described as broken, but they work out well for him anyway, and he takes the ball to the basket directly more often than he shoots jumpers. But still, nobody knows who he actually is or why he was included on the team. He just appeared on the street ball scene one day and was called into the team weeks later, causing some to consider the possibility that he's a government plant or some kind of experiment.

#11 SG - Javon Butler - 25 - 6'6 - Portus Pirates: Taking up the second spot in the highly skilled backcourt is Javon Butler, the slashing shooting guard that acts as a foil to the playmaking Sol Star. While Star is a playmaker, Butler is a pure attacker and defender that brings a lot of grit to the team and excels at driving to the rim and keeping the opponent from doing the same. He's the all time leading scorer in the history of the University of Portum, and carried on his legacy of being a star for his hometown with strong performances in the seasons after he was drafted to the Pirates. Expect to see many passes from Sol to him, and expect to see him getting plenty of highlight reel dunks with his drives inside.

#35 SF - Dustin Durant - 28 - 6'9 - Luxus Dolphins: The player that named himself after a famous foreign basketball player was able to get his own skills high enough to make it on the national team, and he brings an all around impact to the team despite lacking some defensive prowess. But like the rest of the starting five, he can make an offensive impact from multiple areas. He's one of the best spot up shooters on the team and can take the ball inside in pick and roll situations, and his size allows him to play the part of either the pick man or the role man on those plays. If the backcourt doesn't provide the scoring, expect it to come from him. Off of the court, he's somewhat disliked for his decision to join the already successful Luxus Dolphins in free agency.

#50 PF - Rubi Isla - 23 - 6'10 - Luxus Dolphins: Some wonder if Rubi Isla was included on the starting lineup simply to shoehorn a female into the team to increase viewership and popularity with women, because she doesn't have the shot that the others in the starting five do, but she does make up for it with rebounding and hustle in addition to interior defense. She's a grinder that made it in through her hustle plays and high motor rather than slick passing or sharp shooting, and rather than the center, she's the one you'll most likely see shoring up the middle of the defense and keeping opponents out of the paint. The fans are reluctant of her because of her tendency to focus more on defense and rebounding than scoring, but they'll come to love her when they see her impact the team in other ways.

#10 C - Gabriel Galic - 26 - 7'3 - Red Hill Lions: Spreading the floor from the center position is Gabriel Galic, who is the main star of the same team that gave us the national team head coach. Don't let his size fool you. He's more than just a rim protector and a rebounder, he has a good three point shot that means leaving him open in the corner is a mistake. Additionally, he's a threat to score on cuts to the inside from the wing, despite being quite slim for a seven footer and not being the type of player to get a lot of points in the post.

THE 'BENCH MOB'

#1 G - Bryce Falcon - 28 - 6'5 - Ceres Goats: From the star studded city of Ceres is Bryce Falcon, the guard who was expected to be the starter coming into the tournament. The arrival of Sol Star displaced him, but that doesn't mean he's going to see some playing time off of the bench. He doesn't have the court vision that Sol has but he makes up for it with his deadly three point shot that makes him a classic scoring guard.

#21 G - Deon Pierce - 31 - 6'8 - Portus Pirates: Joining the bench is an older veteran looking to hold down a spot and some solid minutes based on his defensive game. Like Falcon, he's a good spot up shooter, but most of his impact comes from being a lockdown defender that knows the ins and outs of attacking guard play and is good at shutting down the opposing team's leading scorer.

#30 F - DeJohn Bold - 22 - 6'6 - Portus Ramblers: Represenring the other side of Portus is DeJohn Bold, the nephew of racer Carsen Bold and a member of one of the better sporting families. He's not just here based on name, though, he's a gritty forward that can switch between both forward spots despite being small for a power forward, and he can rebound very well for a player of his size. Expect him to push Dustin Durant for the small forward spot because of his better hustle.

#12 F - Mara Horacek - 34 - 6'8 - Metrus Metros: The heart and soul of the Metros, Mara Horacek, is a surprise selection for the national team but brings tremendous strength to the forward position and also brings a post scoring presence. While most of this team is based on finesse and technique, Mara is able to push her way into the post and score against even larger opponents. That means her playing time off the bench should be significant.

#45 C - Charles Kaspar - 27 - 6'11 - Ceres Goats: The top rim protector on the team will be coming off of the bench in favor of three point shooting, but when he is in the game, expect to see plenty of blocks and plenty of tough rebounding on both ends. A very physical player, Charles Kaspar doesn't shy away from contact and doesn't shy away from picking up fouls. Definitely one of the better hustle players on the team.

PERMISSIONS

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes - but remember that Sol Star is the leader of the team and the leading scorer
Choose Scoring Events: Yes 
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Yes - but not the length of the injury
Godmod Injuries to my Players: Yes
Godmod Other Events: Yes 
Style Modifier: +5

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 11:50 am

Cosumar National Basketball Team -- IBC 23

Information

Nation - The Fiefdom of Cosumar is a constitutional monarchy renowned for its civil rights, stunning landscapes, space exploration, technological innovation and passionate sporting culture.

Region - Atlantian Oceania (far northeast)

Demonym - Cosumarite

Team Nickname - Stallions

Domestic League - The Cosumar Basketball Association (CBA). Following the NBA model, the CBA consists of 32 teams with 16 in each conference (Eastern and Western). After a season of 62 games, the top eight teams in each conference advance to a playoff for the CBA Title. Best-of-5 series are used in the playoffs until the conference finals, after which point Best-of-7 is used. Six editions have been completed under the modern structure, with Gundar Basket winning the most recent RPed edition for their first ever title. The IBC takes place every two domestic seasons. The Cosumarite delegation typically resembles the CBA All-Star Team from the latest season.

History - This is Cosumar's thirteenth International Basketball Championships, having participated in all but two editions since IBC 9 in Mytannion. The Stallions have always been moderately successful in the tournament, but their first major achievement came in IBC 15, when they made a run to the Quarterfinals, knocked out by #1 Saintland by the slimmest of margins. After further success in IBC 16 and 17, Cosumar finally reached the pinnacle of basketball by winning IBC 18 over Ko-oren in a historic comeback from 2-0 down. Now, as former champions and among the top-ranked teams in the world, expectations are high. They were eliminated early in the playoffs by Saint Kanye, Abanhfleft and Valladares in the last three editions, however, which convinced legendary coach Karl Dupree to finally retire. Will a new coach inspire Cosumar to bounce back and win its second IBC?

Team Style - +4

Roster

Starting 5

PG - WARREN CROSS - (6'3", 190 lbs, 26 yrs) - Goldstaff Lightning
In the last two seasons, Warren Cross has cemented himself as a bona-fide superstar in Cosumar. He is the prototypical point guard. He has the ridiculous handles. He has the beautiful passing touch (known for his creative bounce-passes). He has the floor-general gene too, a high-IQ leader who knows how to run an offense. Led the CBA with 14.5 assists per game last season. His one flaw is that he's a rather poor shooter, but he can finish in the lane and make free-throws. Appearance: pale skin, short curly reddish hair, lean build, arm tattoos.

SG - TARRAN SKANNENDEV - (6'5", 215 lbs, 22 yrs) - Gundar Basket
The rookie out of Tamarskand Fief University has big shoes to fill. He is replacing Na'Zupito, the face of the Cosumarite basketball for the last ten years, in the starting line-up. Skannendev, though young, is no ordinary rookie. He was the best Cosumarite player in NSCAA 8, and went on to average 21 points and 6 rebounds per game in his first CBA season this year - already among the best two-way guards in the league. The kid can shoot. Few can match his pure stroke from anywhere on the floor. But you can't play him too close either because of his devastating athleticism and ability to finish with authority at the rim. A long, versatile attacking weapon, Skannendev is being groomed as the next go-to player for Cosumar. He also plays with equal effort on both ends of the floor, an effective defender in the backcourt. Coach Breckenridge would like to see him become more consistent, however, and develop his shaky passing and decision-making abilities in this IBC. It will be a learning experience, but he just might take to the international game as easily as he did the CBA. Na'Gono, an elite defensive guard, and Na'Zupito, now primarily used as a three-point specialist, are there on the bench whenever situation calls for a more seasoned hand at the position. Appearance: medium-length light brown hair, muscular build, boyish face.

SF - JUDAS STANTON - (6'9", 235 lbs, 27 yrs) - Altamirano Artillery
Stanton is the pure athlete of the starting line-up. With his supreme speed and power, he's fearsome to behold flying down the court. He's also the best wing defender on the team, quick enough to stay in front of guards, with the length to challenge any shot. Stanton is not the most polished player on offense, but he can posterize you in the open floor (1008 Dunk Contest Champion) or knock down a three if left open. Overall, his skillset is ideal for a "3 and D" player, with a bit of extra athleticism. Appearance: Light brown skin, short black hair, substantial goatee.

PF - SEVERIN SOHOLT - (6'11", 245 lbs, 33 yrs) - OAS Ocelots
Soholt has a staggering sweet touch for someone of his size. His shot is lethal from anywhere on the floor, from any angle. A prototypical stretch-four a la Nowitzki, his presence will be critical for the Stallions' spacing. When he's not burying acrobatic midrange shots, he is a great screen-setter who will do a lot of the dirty work in unclogging the lane for Cross's drives. He is just an average defender for his position, however. Appearance: shoulder-length blonde hair, headband.

C - TOZIN SUMMATA - (7'2", 235 lbs, 25 yrs) - Mallox Mavericks
In IBC 21 and 22, Tozin was included in the Cosumarite bench for his obvious size and potential, but he was very raw as a player and didn't see much playing time. That is about to change. Now entering his prime, Tozin has shown signs with the Mavericks that he has become a more polished center who can be relied upon at the international level. His positioning, defensive discipline, toughness and even a limited offensive repertoire have developed handsomely since IBC 21. He's still a bit slow to react sometimes and will never score from outside 10 feet, but he has come a long way. Tozin's best attributes, however, remain his 7"2 frame and incredibly long arms - which he uses to protect the rim to devastating effect. He will give Cosumar sheer size in the middle that we've never had before. Summata leads the CBA in blocks over the last three seasons. Appearance: dark brown skin, small afro, lanky build, goggles.

Bench

PG - Rugian Na'Rel - (6'2", 190 lbs, 29 yrs) - Dusk Wolfpack
SG - Gonzalo Na'Zupito - (6'4", 215 lbs, 36 yrs) - Altamirano Artillery
PG/SG - Mosim Na'Gono - (6'3", 190 lbs, 32 yrs) - Zakhoro Porcupines
SF - Alvin Kuhn - (6'5", 220 lbs, 25 yrs) - Crawford Cormorants
PF - Case Scanlon - (6'9", 245 lbs, 24 yrs) - Goldstaff Lightning
SF/PF - Amanda Inyuta - (6'9", 225 lbs, 25 yrs) - Helfin Heathens
C - Samu Rudnevs - (6'11", 275 lbs, 31 yrs) - Pirankoper Kings
C - Ovu Va'Devu - (7'0", 240, 22 yrs) - Na'Malsille Pestilence

A balanced bench, with high-potential young guns in their early 20s (Va'Devu, Scanlon) as well as experienced former-starters like Rudnevs and Na'Zupito. This very much feels like the optimal window for these two generations to achieve something together before one fully displaces the other. From the slashing drives and famous floater of Rugian Na'Rel to the powerful midrange game of burly forward Alvin Kuhn, it is a diverse and talented group that Coach Dupree has at his disposal on the sidelines. Combo forward Amanda Inyuta, meanwhile, became the first female to play for Cosumar Basketball in IBC 22.

Staff

Head Coach - Douglas Breckenridge

Assistant Coach - Michael Kramer
Assistant Coach - Novak Ansar
Assistant Coach - Seth Halfin
Fitness Trainer - Oleg Lucic
Doctor - Rinne Solen
Team Captain - Severin Soholt

Uniforms

Blue - Away
Grey - Alternate
White - Home

by **Qasden** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 4:31 pm

Qasden @ IBC 23 (Hey, that's us!)

Moons ago, Qasden competed in basketball for the first time ever at IBC21 in RK Quebec and Drawkland. They were complete debutants, never to have seen baskeball in other countries before. They were the underdogs of their group, which consisted of giants such as Quebec and Electrum. Somehow, the Vans snuck past West Phoenicia and Electrum to make a surprise appearance in the knockout stages. Against the then-#1 multiversal team, Ko-oren, TQ took them the full 3 games before making a historic victory over the dragonflies. Afterwards, the Qads rematched the Québécois reapers, whom ultimately ended the glorious run.

Since then, the once-newbies had strengthened to a powerful 16th place. At IBC22 in Ethane, the Qads slipped by newcomers Bendicion to make their second-straight knockout appearance, falling to the eventual champions Saint Kanye in the Round of 16. With some players aging, Llamer being fired, and a surge of inspiration following the soccer team's success in the cycle, can the Vans be able to pick off the competition for glory in their home stadia? Or will Qasden descend further into the epitome of shame?

Nickname- The Vans (Turkish Vans)
Offense- One Four High
Defense- Zone
Style: +3

Coach- Dravin Starks
Assistant Coach- Vacant

0- Justen Hocks;24;G (PG)
5- Tzayne Porter;29;G
10- Larry Trepel;27;G

1- Rebecca Tazel;24;G (SG)
6- Icarus Rybrett;25;G [Bokona Cobras ]
11- Samuel Aksen;28;G

2- Andrew Markins;27;F/C (C)
7- Wendi Frosts;19;F/C

3- Ryu Okasayo;23;F (PF) [Menusa Blues ]
8- Rory Pobbs;32;F

4- Louis Boxton;33;G/F (SF)
9- Matt Ulemar;30;G/F

Green = Starting 5

In honor of the Qasden International Shamrock Festival, which occurred only a week or two ago, half of Qasden's home and away games will be played in special clover jerseys.

RP Permissions– all but killing or career-ending injuries are fine, though I highly recommend TGing me first on any other injuries or fouls. Cheers!

by **Empire of Cats** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 7:02 pm

Ready to Roar: The Empire of Catsian Feral Felines

Unlike many of our competitors, the Allied States of the Empire of Cats can hardly claim to be a three-point sinking, layup-making, kick-rear, take-names basketball powerhouse. But we have two things in abundance: a desire to do well and the drive to propel us (hopefully) to achieve that goal. Sports have only recently become a major draw for many Empire of Catsians, which explains the lack of involvement in the sporting arena. But we are quick learners. And we intend to learn. Without further ado, I am excited to present the Empire of Catsian Feral Felines basketball team, their name a witty play on words of our national animal, the cat, as a 'feral feline' would be a wildcat. New we may be, but we're ready to play to learn, and to learn to play. May the twenty-third IBC be a good one for all!

Uniform

Thanks to Saint Kanye for the provision of the uniforms!

INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 23: THE ROSTER RUNDOWN

Head Coach:  Alexander Bell   44   ^Catstantinople Praetorians
Asst. Coach: Katie Snyder    39   *Foresttown Anacondas
Asst. Coach:  Felicity Dodd      31   *Northern Felinistan College at Catstantinople

STARTERS

#   Pos.  Player             Height     Age    National Club
03   C    Patrick Morris     7’4”       29     ^Harrison Messengers
10   F    William Tull       7’2”       23     ^ San Juan Sunbeams
23   F    Scott McDouglas     7’7”       25     ^Kittsville Hunters
14   G    Ray'shon Young     7’6”       27     ^Catstantinople Praetorians
21   G    Teresa Rolde     7’11”      23    *Koïngsberg Kaisers

RESERVES

#   Pos.  Player             Height     Age    National Club
01   C    Kaylee Matson       7’5”       26     *Koïngsberg Kaisers
02   C    Lauren Thomas     8’0”       23     *Southern Rochelle University
13   F    Lionel Oldingham      7’8”       23     ^Lyrizxistan A&M
14   F    Annie VanDiver  6’11”      33     *San Juan Sunbeams
22   G    Denise Fredericks     7’2”       29     *Tarrytown Ironworkers
28   G    Alex Thorkalson        7’9”       29     ^Catstantinople Praetorians
24   G    Avery Rayholm       7’5”       33     *Foresttown Anacondas
25   G    Felicia Abrams       7’4”       24    *Southernham Prairie Fire
30   G    Ernest Grant      7’1”       25     ^Emperor's Own College
33   G    Jenny Newman     7’9”       39     *Southern Isles Hawks


^ = Denotes Male
* = Denotes Female
Collegiate Players in Italics

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Nothing serious.
Godmod Injuries to my Players: Within reason, please.
Godmod Other Events: OK by me.
Style Modifier (if applicable): + 3.00

by **Saint Kanye** » Tue Mar 28, 2017 8:19 pm

IBC 23: SURGE GUN FOR TITLE NO. 3
Do the Kanyeans have what it takes to win in Abaja?

by Claude Harlan

KARDASHIA - The St. Kanye Surge have reached the top, of the world national hoops team rankings and of last season's International Basketball Championships, but that doesn't mean that the journey has ended. The boys in purple and lime are hoping to take things even further, with their goal being a back-to-back IBC title and third championship overall (after IBC 20 and 22).

Minimal changes have been made to the roster for IBC 23, jointly hosted by the Federal Republic of Abaja and the Principality of Qasden, with the coaching staff and starting five still being intact. Streetball standout Dave Samson and noted pass interceptor Johnathan Schneider have been added to the mix to replace injured players Oliver Lopez (calf) and Andre Andams (hand). The returnees include team captain Josh Jackson, IBC 22's Finals MVP Victor McLain, as well as other starters Michael Porter, Brock Dotson and Joel Pond.

The Glorious Free Republic was drawn into Group B, which means that their games will be held in Abaja. Their opponents will be the world #15 and IBC 18 champion Cosumar Stallions, 59th-ranked Free Republics, and undranked nations Nueva Celta and PandaClaws. Surge power forward Dotson said, "Cosumar will likely present the biggest challenge, they started strong in last season's group stages just like us. We're not the same team who beat them twice [in the IBC 20's Round of 16], that was the original team, so this will be new to us." Head coach Anton Spoletto added "But of course no one will be counted out, Pittopi showed us last season that unranked nations are never to be taken lightly, neither are lower-ranked teams like the Free Republics." The massive Surge fanbase has started trickling into Abaja, ready to don the national colors of purple and lime to show their support for the team.

St. Kanye (STK) Surge Roster - IBC 23

Anton Spoletto | Head Coach | 64 yo
Coach Spoletto has collected 24 titles in 34 years of coaching high school, college, and the amateur and pro leagues, not to mention the IBC 22 trophy last season. He's a master strategist who's fond of surprising his opponents by mixing up his plays and lineups a lot. He will give everyone a chance to play, put up stats, and prove themselves.

Bernard Foley | Assistant Coach | 36 yo
Assistant Coach Foley provides a defensive mindset to the team to complement Coach Brewster's preference for offense.

#56 | Michael Porter | PG (Starter) | 23 yo | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) | 188 lb (85 kg)
Michael (never Mike) lost both parents in a skiing accident when he was 14, which forced him out of high school, where he was the captain of the basketball team. He turned to the sport as a way to support himself and his five younger siblings, playing in the street courts of Jalton City for money. A scout from Upper Middle Lowlands State University saw his skills and offered him money to finish high school, and a full athletic scholarship to UMLSU afterwards. Today Michael showcases his fancy footwork, trick shots, and immense passing ability as the starting point guard of the UMLSU Dogs, and now, the Surge.

#18 | Victor McLain | SG (Starter) | 22 yo | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) | 200 lb (91 kg)
Many sportswriters from all around the Glorious Free Republic have hailed the Kanyean National Institute of Technology's Victor McLain as "the three-pointer, personified" and fully expected him to take his long-distance prowess to the national hoops team one day. A baller since grade school, McLain practiced and perfected his three-point shot, doing it from a variety of distances, angles, and even number of defenders, breaking many school basketball scoring records in the process. He's also quite good at closer shots, including free throws, although his defending abilities are just at average, and his rebounding well below it.

#00 | Josh Jackson | SF (Starter, Captain) | 26 yo | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) | 213 lb (97 kg)
Josh led the Bernard Foley-coached South Central University Skulls to the first of its back-to-back titles in his senior year, and was crowned MVP for his efforts (30.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists per game). After graduation, Josh became an amateur league standout (he wanted some experience before joining the pros), and eventually became a solid choice to be the new Surge's team captain. Josh is an all-around player - more than able both to shoot and pass, rebound and defend. He's more likely to layup than dunk, but he'd gladly do the latter if pumped up enough.

#13 | Brock Dotson | PF (Starter) | 23 yo | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) | 262 lb (119 kg)
Brock, Michael Porter's second-in-command at UMLSU, possesses height, long arms, quick reflexes and a keen eye regarding the basketball, which makes him useful for rebounding, blocking, stealing and diving for loose balls. Brock is also good at drawing fouls from defenders, though not at sinking those charities after. His field goal abilities, including threes, are above average. Aside from basketball, Brock is rather fond of 7ball, the Drawkian sport, which he plays to pick up new moves and improve his athleticism. He also acts as a "playing scout" and is the on most often analyzing games of teams and players they will face next.

#28 | Joel Pond | C (Starter) | 26 yo | 7 ft (2.13 m) | 293 lb (133 kg)
Seven feet and two hundred and ninety-three pounds of pure energy, Pond overwhelms and tires out his defenders in the amateur league on a regular basis. He's also one of the most ferocious dunkers and blockers around - truly a beast out of other team's nightmares. Pond is a "gentle giant" away from the court, friendly to young fans and preferring to listen to classical music on the team bus to and from games.

#19 | Norman Walker | PG (Bench) | 22 yo | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) | 175 lb (79 kg)
All you need to know about Norman is in his nickname: "The Fly". "Fly" as in the insect - small, fast, hard to get rid of (as a defender). And "fly" as in soaring - who says people below six feet can't dunk?

#7 | Jayvon Duff | SG (Bench) | 23 yo | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) | 193 lb (88 kg)
If Victor McLain is the president of Rainbow Country, Duff could well be his vice president. While also a master of the long shot, Duff takes longer to heat up, and so he's at his best during late game situations, knocking back go-ahead baskets or game-winning buzzer-beaters.

#11 | Zack Coyle | SF (6th Man) | 22 yo | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) | 235 lb (107 kg)
Coyle, of Kardashia A&M, is the Surge's sixth man and its most capable defender. His output does not reflect much on the scoreboard (2.7 points per game), but only because he mostly focuses on D (7.6 steals, 3.1 blocks, 8.8 forced turnovers).

#8 | Dave Samson | PF (Bench) | 20 yo | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) | 256 lb (116 kg)
Dave is from the Jalton City projects and was discovered by Michael Porter during one of the latter's streetball games, mostly impressed by the difficulty defenders have getting past him, his speed in getting to them, and his close and mid-range shooting.

#26 | DeAngelo Norris | C (Bench) | 20 yo | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)| 289 lb (131 kg)
Quick as he is tall (no slow big men for the purple and lime), hard-working (first to practice, last to leave) and a jokester in the locker room. This former high school star, now with Northwest Tech, is the second youngest player in the national team after the addition of Dave Samson.

#6 | Johnathan Schneider | SF (Bench) | 21 yo | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) | 218 lb (99 kg)
A patient player who prefers safe, sure shots, cool under pressure, but is more known for intercepting opponents' passes. A last-minute addition after Andre Adams broke his hand in practice three months before IBC 23.

#10 | Joey Levy | PF (Bench) | 24 yo | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) | 257 lb (117 kg)
Joey puts the "power" in "power forward". He's a very physical player, not afraid to force his way past opposing players to throw down shots. Hopefully his hot temper and knack for picking fights doesn't get the better of him.

Game Schedule - Group B

Matchday 1: Purple Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR*)
Matchday 2: White Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 3: BREAK
Matchday 4: Purple Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 5: White Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Matchday 6: White Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR)
Matchday 7: Purple Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 8: BREAK
Matchday 9: White Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 10: Purple Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Playoffs

*Unranked.

All games televised live through SKYNET (Saint KanYe NETwork) Sports Channel 12 and streamed on ibc-tv.stk.

In the next issue: More news about your Surge, including Group B team spotlights!

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: TG me
RP Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Other Events: No
Style Modifier: +1

by **Spaam** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 1:06 am

"You know, instead of choosing our best players, we could always..."

"Stop. Just stop."

"What? I was just going to say..."

"Stop. I know what you were going to say, and the answer is no."

"How do you know what I was going to say?"

"Because you have been going on about how well the cloning experiment is going for the past three months. You haven't talked about anything else!"

"That is so not true! I've talked about plenty of things!"

"No, you really haven't. And its a moot point anyway. We are not going to clone a team of basketball players from our best players!"

"Oh no, I wasn't going to say that."

"Oh really, you weren't?"

"No, honest!"

"Frankly, I don't believe you. That is exactly the sort of thing you would say."

"No, no, really! I don't think cloning a team of basketball players from our best would be the best idea."

"Oh. Well. That's okay, then. Sorry for interrupting you."

"Don't worry about it!"

"Okay then, what was your idea?"

"As I was saying, we could always clone a team of basketball players from some other nation's best. That would be the best idea, as they probably have better players than us anyway!"

"..."

Spaamanian National Basketball Team

Nickname: The Dollys
Offense: Wheel
Defense: Person-To-Person
Style: +5

Coach: Nandee Elaavaris
Nandee was roped in to this job by the Ministry of Sport to manage the clones.  
A former national champion point-guard, she currently coaches the Paatukar Penguins basketball team.

Starting Five
3       PG      Justen Hocks Three (c)     
The oldest surviving clone, Three has been honing his skills since maturity and leads the team.
4       SG      Justen Hocks Four
Four has been practising shooting three-pointers since maturity and can now land them from anywhere.
5       SF      Justen Hocks Five
Five is the primary free-throw shooter and is now on a streak of 97.
7       PF      Justen Hocks Seven
Six failed to respond to the growth hormones, but Seven is one of the tallest clones, making him perfect for this position.
8       C       Justen Hocks Eight
Eight was accidentally given too much growth hormones, and now stands at 7'11".

Bench
9       C       Justen Hocks Nine
They got the mix right for Nine, but who doesn't want a 7'11" centre?
10      PF      Justen Hocks Ten
Ten is just as tall as Nine, but more versatile in his shooting options.
11      PG      Justine Hocks Eleven
Eleven somehow ended up as a female, and is the shortest player at 6'1".
12      SG      Justen Hocks Twelve
Twelve isn't really that good at basketball, but can somehow make half-court shots with regularity.    
13      SF      Justen Hocks Thirteen   
Unlucky for some, Thirteen has bright red hair and is nicknamed Ranga.  He hates that.

Uniform

Code: Select all: RP Permissions My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following: Yes.

by **Flardania** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 5:47 am

霧島国立バスケットボール隊
Kirishima National Basketball Team

Team Name: The Lightspeed
Rank:
Style Modifier (if applicable): +3.13
Head Coach: Riko Aida(f)
Assistant Coaches: Arata Okino, Satsuki Momoi(f), Clément Bachelet

Roster

Starters
G #11 Tetsuya Kuroko
G #5   Kyou Tsukishima (f)
F #21   Nagi Tokunaga
F #10  Taiga Kagami
C #17  Man Sang Tae

Reserves
G #7   Yuna Akashi (f)
G #6 Don Yeong Hak
G #4 Suruga Kanbaru(f)
F #2 Marie Aisaka(f)
F #15 Igor Yankonovich
C #34 Takuma Iida

Uniforms

Thanks to Saint Kanye

The Kirishinan basketball club has hit a rough patch. After bursting onto the sporting scene in Basketball, baseball and football (soccer), Kirishima saw a surge in ranks among all three sports. However despite basketball being the most successful of the Kirishinan sports their seems to be not as much dedication as seen in football. One could say that the last time the Lightspeed truly put in any real effort was IBC 18 where they were ranked 52nd. With the Lightspeed ranked 13th in IBC 19 the Kirishinan Basketball Association simply fielded the same team and hoped for the best while Kirishinan's at home barely paying attention to the coverage. Now things have considerably fallen since those times for the Kitsunes and one got to wonder if the Lightspeed have any chance of bringing some excitement to Kirishima.

RP Permissions

I give my opponent permission to:
Choose my pointscorers: Y
Godmod scoring events: Y as long as you TG
Give my players foul: Y (ask for technicals)
Foul my players out: Y
Give injuries to my players: Y (only minor ones, miss one game or less)
Godmod injuries to my players: N
Godmod other events: N

works? · by **Abanhfleft** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 7:45 am

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF ABANHFLEFT
NATIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM

This will be Abanhfleft's ninth time participating in the International Basketball Championships. Abanhfleft finally, finally won the IBC after many years and seasons of nearly theres and almost made its in the 21st edition but immediately slipped against Saint Kanye once again in the 22nd edition. Now the job is to regain the title with the same players who won Abanhfleft's first title in basketball in so many years, but do they still have what it takes? Can their new coach lead them to a second title? There's only one way to find out, and it's by going to Qasden and Abaja and seeing how things unfold...

BASIC INFORMATION
Name of nation: Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft
Demonym: Fleftic
Team colors: Blue, orange, green
Style modifier: +3
Offense: Run And Gun
Defense: Man To Man
Foul Trouble: Let Them Play
Head Coach: Ivan Opanasenko (42 y/o, 6'9", Pridnestrovia)

STARTERS
Center: Dylan Kapowski (#5, 30 y/o, 5'9.5")
Power Forward: Newton Isaacs (#4, 30 y/o, 5'10", team co-captain)
Small Forward: Boris Barry (#3, 30 y/o, 5'9")
Shooting Guard: Jan Harris (#2, 30 y/o, 5'11")
Point Guard: Leonidas "Leo" Baxter (#1, 30 y/o, 5'7, team captain)

SUBSTITUTES
Center: Jazz Higgs (#50, 20 y/o, 7'5", half-Drawk half-Yeezie player born in Abanhfleft)
Center: Giorgio "George" Katatonoios (#12, 30 y/o, 6'0")
Power Forward: Nathaniel Simboro (#46, 20 y/o, 6'10")
Power Forward: Daniel Querubin (#23, 23 y/o, 6'7")
Small Forward: Vassilis Malaganas (#15, 36 y/o, 6'4")
Small Forward: Gregory Mankiller (#18, 28 y/o, 6'1")
Shooting Guard: Reginald Vidal (#40, 23 y/o, 6'10")
Shooting Guard: Marius Rosenkrantz (#33, 24 y/o, 6'7", natural point guard being played out of position)
Point Guard: Clyde Guiloreza (#28, 21 y/o, 6'0")
Point Guard: Silverio Estoya (#43, 22 y/o, 6'6")

UNIFORMS (Kindly provided by Saint Kanye)

RP PERMISSIONS
Everything except killing my players and staff is okay.

by **Purple Rabbits** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 3:32 pm

Staff

Head Coach: George Neilheim
Assistant Coach: Drew Rathburgh

Team

Starters

#37 Mason Dorham
Center - 6'11"

#28 Haji Naples
Power Forward - 6'9"

#29 Jordan Naples
Small Forward - 6'8"

#4 Alex Baldford
Shooting Guard - 6'2"

#5 Jake Balfo
Point Guard - 6'4"

Guard Substitutes
#1 Lee Brenton - 6'3"
#38 Cort Illyck - 6'4"
#10 Kent Haber - 6'3"
#13 Isaac Unis - 6'6"

Post Substitutes
#12 Hagard Ihan - 6'6"
#19 Olin Garda - 6'8"
#20 Yahna Yuri - 6'9"
#11 Udo Ian - 6'5"
#16 Habib Isa - 6'11"
#2 Gadi Wilson - 7'1"

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: No
RP Injuries to my Players: Yes
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Other Events: Yes
Style Modifier: +3 (Idk, this is my first)

by **Empire of Cats** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 4:58 pm

A Familiar Foe: First Look at the Competition

Catstantinople - Well, the show is about to start. The Twenty-Third edition of the International Basketball Classic is about to open, with forty different and widely dissimilar politics and looks on life coming out of the gate and into the court. Every team will have to bring their A-game going into this tournament. Some, however, are better prepared than others. Take Saint Kanye, for example. The defending champs, they have their work cut out as they have the eyes of the sporting world upon them and are one of the favorites. And then there are the unranked teams, who are overshadowed by their opponents but much like "the mouse that roared" can stand up and hang with the best as many times as they prove to be in need of experience and the next tourney to prove themselves.

Group F is peppered with the basketball elite. We've got nations from the United States of Devonta to West Phoenicia to Abanhfleft. The latter we know all too well. In Francine Delpha, our battle in the thirty-ninth WBC has placed us one game under them (for now) for third place in our group. We tip our caps in salute to Abanhfleft, a worthy opponent deserving of praise. West Phoenicia we also know, in a separate group of the same WBC. If their baseball skills are any indication of their basketball skills (and it certainly looks like it) they'll be just as good if not better.

May this classic be recorded as the best one yet and be remembered in the annals of history as truly epic. - Excerpts from the Catstantinople Dispatch, Harry Davis reporting.

by **Saint Kanye** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 8:21 pm

IBC 23 TEAM SPOTLIGHT: THE POWERHOUSES

We take a look at the most elite of the squads battling for basketball supremacy

by the Kibitzer Research Department

Welcome to Abaja. Or Qasden, as the case may be. It's time for the 23rd International Basketball Championships. Eight groups of five nations slug it out over ten matchdays, after which only the top sixteen remain. These are then reduced to eight, then four, then two, then a champion is crowned. Some teams want that glory for the first time. Some want it back. Of course, like in any other competition, there are those who are respected and feared, those seen by others to be major threats to their own campaigns. Today we discuss some of these such teams. The numbers preceding their names are their spot in the international basketball rankings, correct as of the end of the previous IBC.

#1 ST. KANYE

That's us! One of the youngest teams in the IBC, and also one of the fastest climbing in rank (10th after IBC 19, 3rd after IBC 20 and 21, and now first after IBC 22). The purple and lime will carry over most of the players who scored the second most points, and gave up the fewest, in IBC 22 en route to a second title and third podium finish overall in just four seasons of existence. Will the Surge again surge and hold on to the title for one more season?

#2 ABANHFLEFT

Ah, the Rebolusyonaryos. Considered by some Kanyeans as the Surge's chief rival in international basketball. The Kanyeans hold a 3-0 series lead and 5-1 game lead over the Fleftics, but then again, the blue, orange and green shed its "always falling short" image in an IBC 21 playoffs that did not feature the Surge. The Rebs decided to bring back the small but powerful starting five that got them IBC 21; also returning is Jazz Higgs, the 7'5" beast who's half Kanyean, half Drawkian, all Fleftic (he was born there).

#3 ETHANE

Interest for basketball exploded in Ethane as they, as hosts of IBC 22, took their national team all the way to the finals, where they would eventually lose to the Surge. Despite this the Ethanese team quickly jumped from 19th to 3rd in the world rankings, and they're back here to show that their miracle run wasn't just a fluke, or fed by the energy of a rabid home crowd.

#4 VANGAZILAND

Vangaziland's main weapon has always been their potent offense, which has advanced them out of many a group stage. Their most recent finish is fourth, in IBC 22, being beaten by Abanhfleft in the bronze medal match. Vangaziland will of course be looking to improve on this.

#6 VALANORA

Still the IBC's oldest squad, and still expected to make the playoffs. They're also looking to improve on their finish, the best so far being second behind Abanhfleft in IBC 21.

Game Schedule - Group B

Matchday 1: Purple Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR*)
Matchday 2: White Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 3: BREAK
Matchday 4: Purple Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 5: White Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Matchday 6: White Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR)
Matchday 7: Purple Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 8: BREAK
Matchday 9: White Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 10: Purple Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Playoffs

*Unranked.

All games televised live through SKYNET (Saint KanYe NETwork) Sports Channel 12 and streamed on ibc-tv.stk.

Next issue: The Contenders!

by **Valanora** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 8:37 pm

Valanora Roster
For IBC 23

My oppenents if they RP first
May RP slight injuries
May choose my scorers

Denonym: Vanorian

Staff
Manager: Adanion Kianthor, age 10,290
Assistant: Darminaitan Gwamin, age 9,015

Modifier: +2

Starters
PF: Aemaeron Malithlhûn, age 734
C: Tûrancon Kevatathian, age 657
SG: Úthlanna Culothdal, age 789 (F)
PG: Útírminail Wernarta, age 813
SG: Emeraran Mithglinalhûn, age 645

Reserves
C: Maraphadon Yrauloth, age 619
PG: Aranthoniel Laevanthir, age 843 (F)
SG: Raiiel Landhriniel, age 556 (F)
PG: Aeyangion Elertaur, age 581
PF: Glenlaeril Nardilinion, age 915
PF: Bersidhion Undoethm age 639
SG: Talaya Aldamiel, age 751 (F)

by **Spaam** » Wed Mar 29, 2017 11:14 pm

"Justen! JUSTEN! Can I have your autograph!?"

Three turned around, smiling, at the female fan in the Qasden shamrock jersey and an autograph pen. "Wow, I had no idea we were famous here, Seven!"

Seven, Four and Twelve all turned around, causing the fan to do a double-take as four copies of her idol's face smiled at her.

"I... I..." The fan was speechless, before turning around and scuttling off, sans autograph.

"Well, that was quite rude!" exclaimed Seven.

"These Qads are weird, if you ask me," replied Twelve. "They keep on giving us funny looks!"

"It's like they've never seen a Spaamanian before!" said Four indignantly. "I thought we looked just like any other Qad..."

"I think we do," agreed Three. "I'd even go far as saying we look more like a Qad than a Spaamanian, if that were at all possible!"

"Maybe our father was from Qasden?" Seven hypothesised.

"That could be it!" said Three. "We should ask coach. C'mon, we need to get to the stadium to warm up anyway. Who are we playing anyway?"

"I think it's Addled Braintopia," replied Twelve.

"Addled Braintopia? What a funny name for a nation!" laughed Four.

"Never heard of them," stated Seven. "Do you think they're any good?"

Twelve shrugged. "They're unranked as far as I know, so probably not. We should definitely bring our A-game though."

"Don't you mean, J-game, Twelve," Four ribbed.

"No, Four. Just, no."

The four clones continued their way towards the Qasden basketball stadium, blissfully unaware of the stares everyone was giving them on the way.

by **Natanians and Nosts** » Thu Mar 30, 2017 4:46 pm

Starters:

# 	Name 	age	 position 	height
4 	Mihai Márius Silva 	22 	point guard 	1,80
6 	Ion Carolus César 	21 	shooting guard 	1,98
8 	Públius Márcus Varro 	23 	small forward 	1,98
5 	Ion Victor Molnár 	20 	power forward 	2,51
7 	Mihai Gabriel Souza 	21 	centre 	2,00

Captain's name is in blue

Bench:

#	 Name	 age	 position	 height
9	Patrick Mihai Álvares 	23 	point guard 	1,70
10	 Cáius Júnio Fostar 	32 	point guard 	1,75
11	 Mihai Ion Alekhine 	25 	winger 	1,95
12	 Ion José Capablanca 	27 	power forward 	1,96
13	 Alexander Márius Botvinnik	29 	power forward 	1,89
14	 Mihai Caeso Enderssen 	23 	centre 	2,01
15	 Mihai Márius Fischer 	22 	winger 	1,85

Starting positions:

RP Permissions:

Chose my scorers:No
godmod scoring events:Yes
RP injuries to my palyers:No
godmod injuries to my players:No
godmod other events:No

by **The Iron Syndicate** » Thu Mar 30, 2017 5:35 pm

Enigma

Chapter One

Who in the hell is Sol Star? The fans were asking that because this player showed up on the IBC roster for the new national team with no experience other than playing and dominating in the parks, against amateur players. The highlights from those park games had made him a viral online hit within a week of him being named to the roster, but were far from explaining why he was here over a seasoned professional or even a college player who was showing great promise. It especially didn't explain why he was listed as being the starting point guard according to the team’s preliminary depth chart.

The staff were asking that, because head coach Robin Hechevaria hadn't selected Star. Rather, he'd received a mysterious phone call from Syndicate Basketball that informed him that he would have to take this new player into his roster and that he would have to play him enough minutes to make him the effective starting point guard. When he asked for further clarification, Robin was told that Star was necessary to the future of the team and was given no further explanation to justify starting a twenty one year old who had come out of nowhere. That is, if he really even was his listed age. Star hadn't played in college, and had no record of playing in high school either. Or any kind of record playing anywhere, really. If one ran searches on him, they would find nothing. They'd find people similarly named, and a few people with the same name, but they wouldn't find anyone that resembled him and they wouldn't find anything about him beyond the highlights of his games in the street and articles that were speculating over what his identity was.

Bloggers were asking who he was because no matter how much they looked at his face, they couldn't come up with someone that resembled him enough to actually be him, and no matter how much research they did into him, they found nothing of his background. Some said that Sol Star was an anagram for Lass Rot, the great Portus Pirates guard that now served as the head of Syndicate Basketball, but the two didn't resemble each other enough to suggest a resemblance. Rot had dark brown hair, Star had blonde hair that was at his shoulders in terms of length. Rot had green eyes and fair skin, Star had dark grey eyes and skin that was slightly lighter than the former’s. Fans had compared faces, and after lining them up with a chart, they'd determined that there was no relation between the two.

Other players were asking who Sol Star was because he suddenly appeared on their scouting reports as an opponent to watch for. It wasn't that they were afraid of his skills, because he was unproven and hadn't even played a single high school game as far as anyone knew, but the fact that the Syndicate was starting a twenty one year old with no game experience whatsoever meant that they knew something that everyone else didn't know. Opponents were left trying to figure out what they were missing before it cost them the game when they had to play Star’s team, and while there was a chance that the Syndicate had just gone mad, everyone seemed to know that a country that was smart in everything else wouldn't make a decision like this without having a very good reason for it. Even his own teammates were looking him up and asking questions to him about his background, which he always laughed off or joked about. He'd say that his background was classified, and then he would laugh charmingly and change the subject to something easier. Eventually the players accepted it, but it was still strange for them to be accompanied by a player that none of them had ever seen before national team camps began.

Teams were asking who he was because they were interested in signing him to play for them. Even if he turned out to have no skills and if he washed out of the Black Arrows, they'd be able to sell jerseys and get fans in the stands based on the allure of having the mystery player who hadn't yet had his story told for real. If he did have enough skills to compete with the world’s best, then the team's back home would be in a rush to get their hands on him while he was still out of a contract. After all, top players could usually only be gained by recruiting in free agency or by drafting, and this was a chance to grab someone for free who was good enough apparently to start at point guard for the national team. If he lived up to the hype at all, it would be a good deal for any team to sign him, and the Portus Pirates and Luxus Dolphins were already gearing up to go to war with each other to recruit him and make him a franchise centerpiece if he could live up to or exceed the hype.

Other athletes in other sports were asking who he was because he was rising to celebrity status and threatening to overtake them, without even playing a single game. The hype machine that was attached to basketball and the social media game around it had already made him a major star, and his Iron Net profile that had plenty of outspoken posts was gaining more and more followers by the hour. He had already shown that he was becoming a part of the sports community when he was spotted driving around tennis players Adrian Goldstone and Diamond Heart in his Ceres Motors sports car, and he had also been seen hanging out with Formula S driver Zhen Estrella and her mother, Ella.

So, who was Sol Star? As he stepped out onto the court and pulled his blue and white jersey on, stepping into the cheering stadium and putting both arms up to acknowledge the crowd that was asking all of the questions that everyone else had asked about him, he chuckled to himself. It was true, they had no idea who he was or why he was on this team. But even though they didn't know who he was right now, and they had to speculate over his identity… They soon enough wouldn't be able to forget him.

by **Qasden** » Thu Mar 30, 2017 7:33 pm

Guess what? It's time for the first CUTOFF of IBC23! RRRR y'all ready to get this party started? For the Abajan side, at least

Group A

Drawkland 86-79 Nova Anglicana
New Lusitania and the Algarves 90-84 Soltsteed

Group B

Saint Kanye 106-88 PandaClaws
Nueva Celta 93-96 Cosumar

Group C

West Saintland 80-64 Corcra and Tir Trodaithe
Flardania 88-96 Ceni

Group D

Kecrazia 76-92 Valanora
Purple Rabbits 78-84 The Iron Syndicate

EDIT: Whoops, forgot to add the last group.

by **Abaja** » Thu Mar 30, 2017 7:52 pm

MATCHDAY 1 CUT-OFF
Qasdonian Side

Make it happen, E-H. MD1 is here!

Group E
Greater Churchill 90–89 Nueva Andalusia
Frenline Delpha 52–126 Vangaziland

Group E
                        Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
1 Vangaziland             1    1   0   126   52  +74     3
2 Greater Churchill       1    1   0    90   89   +1     3
3 Nueva Andalusia         1    0   1    89   90   −1     0
4 Frenline Delpha         1    0   1    52  126  −74     0

Group F
Abanhfleft 87–55 West Phoenicia
Adab 68–72 Empire of Cats

Group F
                            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 
1 Abanhfleft                  1    1   0    87   55  +32     3
2 Empire of Cats              1    1   0    72   68   +4     3
3 Adab                        1    0   1    68   72   −4     0
4 West Phoenicia              1    0   1    55   87  −32     0

Group G
Foodporn 68–73 Natanians and Nosts
Unified Sunrise Islands 72–67 Newmanistan

Group G
                           Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts                                
1 Natanians and Nosts        1    1   0    73   68   +5     3              
2 Unified Sunrise Islands    1    1   0    72   67   +5     3           
3 Foodporn                   1    0   1    68   73   −5     0          
4 Newmanistan                1    0   1    67   72   −5     0

Group H
Spaam 74–74 Addled Braintopia (83–81 OT)
Jeckland 81–91 Valladares

Group H
                       Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD  Pts 
1 Valladares             1   1  0   91  81 +10    3
2 Spaam                  1   1  0   83  81  +2    3
3 Addled Braintopia      1   0  1   81  83  −2    0
4 Jeckland               1   0  1   81  91 −10    0

by **Saint Kanye** » Thu Mar 30, 2017 8:09 pm

IBC 23 TEAM SPOTLIGHT: THE CONTENDERS

Slightly lower in the rankings, but no less equipped for the title hunt

by the Kibitzer Research Department

We continue our analysis of IBC 23 competitors with some of the nations in the top 20 who have made splashes in previous IBCs, both as upstarts aiming to be the next big thing, and as veterans toughened by years of competition. Both IBC 23 hosts, Abaja and Qasden, fall into this category. The numbers preceding their names are their spot in the international basketball rankings, correct as of the end of the previous IBC.

#11 ABAJA

Lions head coach Yuhan Anekwe saved himself from getting fired last season by advancing past the Round of 16 with a 76-74 edging of Drawkland. This newfound job security might be a motivation to him and his players, not to mention the fact that the black and green will be playing in front of their home fans as co-hosts of IBC 23. Hey, that worked out well for Ethane. Why not them?

#13 WEST SAINTLAND

Once an undisputed powerhouse, with a three-peat (IBCs 14-16) under their belt, the decline of the red and white could be mainly attributed to the players' age. Prince Ioannes is still scary efficient, though, and if he can get some help from his crew and show the other teams not to mess with the hardened veterans, then all the better.

#15 COSUMAR

Another IBC old-timer, now playing for thirteen seasons. Winner of IBC 18. The Surge have faced and defeated the blue and gray in the IBC 20's Round of 16, but those boys in purple and lime are not the same that are playing for the Glorious Free Republic now. Cosumar is a primarily offensive team, so this means that the Surge must rely on their excellent defense to take these guys down during their two Group B matches.

#16 QASDEN

The blue and red are the other 50% of the IBC 23 hosting tandem, and one for the "upstart" category. If one of Abaja's motivations come with retaining their coach, the Vans' could likely come from the removal of the pessimistic Angela Llamer from the assistant spot. That, and they don't want to get overshadowed by their association football team's recent successes.

#17 DRAWKLAND

The Net Corp are blessed with more height than they could ever know what to do with, but other teams just end up finding ways to get past that. As such, the big guys still hasn't found their big break yet. Fans of the black and red want that to change, and they want that to change now.

Game Schedule - Group B

Matchday 1: Purple Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR*)
Matchday 2: White Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 3: BREAK
Matchday 4: Purple Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 5: White Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Matchday 6: White Jerseys vs. PandaClaws (UR)
Matchday 7: Purple Jerseys vs. Free Republics (59)
Matchday 8: BREAK
Matchday 9: White Jerseys vs. Nueva Celta (UR)
Matchday 10: Purple Jerseys vs. Cosumar (15)
BREAK
Playoffs

*Unranked.

All games televised live through SKYNET (Saint KanYe NETwork) Sports Channel 12 and streamed on ibc-tv.stk.

Next issue: The Notable Newbies!

by **Adab** » Fri Mar 31, 2017 3:47 am

The 23rd iteration of the International Basketball Championships marks the emergence of Adabian basketball on the international scene. Although Adabians are generally enthusiastic and supportive of their basketball players, and the Adab Basketball League has seen a rapid increase in attendance and revenues over the last decade and a half, the country could not help but notice that their basketball team was handpicked and sent off to these championships under bizarre circumstances. Just a week before the commencement of the championships, their coach, Walid Hashami, was named as a suspect in the murder, by poison, of his gardener. Despite proclaiming his innocence in this matter, Hashami ended up fleeing his Adab City residence, driving all the way to Baghdad, after which he reportedly went around and around the city in a confused state before getting off the car in the middle of a highway and surrendering to authorities. The entire team, loyal to their fierce and charismatic coach, promptly refused to play and left the team, with small forward Darius al-Khalbu declaring that Hashami had been "a victim of this vast conspiracy perpetrated by the Adab City Police Department."

Nevertheless, Emperor Tizqar III and Chancellor Ebmarah were determined that "the show must go on", for the sake of international prestige, and promptly ordered the Adab Basketball Association to assemble a whole new team under the direction of a new coach. with time running out, and several prominent candidates unable to be contacted, the association turned to veteran coach Inimabakesh Jariyah, who reluctantly accepted the job for the duration of the championships. Jariyah immediately contacted all teams in the league, demanding that they send their "best men" to "national service." With the season still ongoing, though, the teams were unwilling to heed Jariyah's orders, leaving the old coach to turn to the men that he knew best from his glory days. Thus was the new team assembled, hastily and haphazardly according to pretty much everyone, and sent off to Qasden to meet their fate, whatever it is.

STAFF

HEAD COACH - Inimabakesh Jariyah (88 years old): Jariyah was the coach of the Adab City Rollers from 1973 to 1997, during which they won the Adab Basketball League a record ten times. Several of Adab's greatest basketball stars, such as Rudi al-Ulmann, Sargon al-Baghdadi, Jubair al-Maliki, and Mahmud Hussein, rose to prominence under Jariyah's direction. By the time he was appointed to his current post, Jariyah had been retired for twenty years - he was reportedly the Basketball Association's last option, picked merely because all other candidates were, for various reasons, unavailable - and there are doubts whether, in his advanced age, he would be able to replicate the successes of the past. There are rumors that Jariyah may have been suffering from early-stage Alzheimer's disease, although he and his family have vehemently denied this.

ASSISTANT COACH - Haris Mahmud (77 years old): Inimabakesh Jariyah's loyal assistant coach at the Adab City Rollers during Jariyah's entire 24-year tenure, Mahmud is known for his lively personality and sometimes explosive public statements, but is also widely respected for the occasionally audacious, yet wildly succession, tactics and team selection that he helped Jariyah devise. He is also known to be kind and considerate in private and maintains friendly, if not necessarily close, relations with many of the players and staff members there. Indeed, Jariyah sometimes trusted him to talk to certain players that were showing signs of rebelling against Jariyah's authority. On this occasion, it is expected that Mahmud will assume a larger role in creating the tactics and strategy necessary for Adab to succeed, considering Jariyah's advanced age and rumored senility (obviously Mahmud himself is a bit old, but compared to Jariyah he's still a little young).

PLAYERS

POINT GUARD - #01 - 6'4'' (193 cm) - Ahmad Jariyah (58 years old): Inimabakesh Jariyah's son played basketball for the Baghdad Winds from 1977 until his retirement in 1989, although he spent more time on the bench than he actually did on the court and was often regarded as a second-rate player. The younger Jariyah's decision to play for the Adab City Rollers' longtime rivals enraged his father and caused a rift in the relationship between father and son; they would only start to grow close again upon Ahmad's retirement. After bowing out from the sport, Ahmad became manager of a local munitions factory and remains there today. When his father invited Ahmad to play in the newly-assembled team, the son promptly accepted in a fit of nostalgia. Ahmad denied that he was pursuing a Basketball League return (which, at his age, would have been more or less impossible anyway); IBC 23 is merely a one-off comeback.

SHOOTING GUARD - #02 - 6'5" (195 cm) - Thamur Mahmud (50 years old): Seeing that the elder Jariyah had allowed his son a place in the team, Haris Mahmud promptly demanded that the coach provide a spot for his son as well. After a whole hour of arguing, Jariyah relented and freed up a spot in the team for his assistant coach's son. Thus came Thamur Mahmud into the team. Thamur only briefly played basketball at a professional level, for the Kuwait City Sailors from 1987 to 1990. It has been alleged that Haris, with the help of his friends in the sport, coerced the Sailors into signing Thamur and intended for his son to gain some experience in the "subpar" team before "upgrading" to the Rollers. In any case, Thamur retired after only three years, amid heavy criticism of his basketball skills (or lack thereof). Following the debacle, Thamur gained a degree in accounting and started working for a firm in Adab City, where he remains today. Like Ahmad Jariyah, he has denied accusations that he was pursuing a league comeback, saying that his age would not allow it.

SMALL FORWARD - #03 - 6'6" (198 cm) - Iltasadum Bursuen (49 years old): A long-time business associate of Ahmad Jariyah and former member of the Privy Council, Bursuen hopes that his participation here will bring more good publicity, domestically and internationally, for him and his newly-established Adabian Rights Party. Despite having not fielded a single candidate and participated in a single election, the party has already generated massive controversy stemming from allegations of racism and xenophobia (Bursuen has denied all allegations, calling them "silly" and "unfounded"). Bursuen himself is known to be a basketball fan and plays the sport occasionally for fun.

POWER FORWARD - #04 - 6'9" (205 cm) - Markus Musa (20 years old): Musa is one of the five members of the prominent boy band Two Directions, which gained massive popularity across Adab over the last six years. With Two Directions currently on a hiatus, Musa decided to spend the time by recording a few songs of his own and playing basketball, which happens to be his favorite sport. Musa's addition into the team resulted from a combination of both Musa's insistence and Inimabakesh Jariyah's desire for some "star power" to increase the ratings for this team's games back in their home country. Musa is enthusiastic regarding the team, declaring that, "We will conquer the world."

CENTER - #05 - 7'1" (216 cm) - Yisrael Amun (90 years old): The mysterious, reclusive head of the Nation of Amun (NOA), Yisrael Amun, scion of one of the wealthiest families in the Governorate of Israel, claims that he saw "the true essence of the Almighty, that is Elohim and Amun united" and that the Almighty appointed him as "the last messenger" at the age of 14. Amun gained thousands of followers across the country, even as an increasing number of critics accused him of being a fraud and possibly schizophrenic. Amun lives in seclusion in his vast mansion on the slopes of Mount Ebal, where critics allege he and his cabal conduct animal sacrifices and perform "satanic" rites at an almost-regular basis. His joining this team is, according to the Nation of Amun, intended to put an end to rumors that he is long-dead and produce some good publicity for the NOA; by this point he has not been seen in public for forty-five years.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Injuries to my Players: Yes
Godmod Injuries to my Players: Yes
Godmod Other Events: Yes
Style Modifier: +5

International Basketball Championships 23 (IC Thread)

International Basketball Championships 23 (IC Thread)

Net Corps: Hoping to Hit QFs

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