IBC30 [rosters/RPs/results]

by **Chromatika** » Sun Nov 08, 2020 9:40 pm

Chromatika in IBC 30
In Haiku Form!
Matchday the Ninth: vs. Valladares

And with one game left
There is an outside chance for them
Can miracles be?

by **Vykta** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 4:18 am

EyeRC v2.1.4 - #sports - irc.dargonz.vkt - en-MV - ryzenup
Topic: Y'all ever seen The Idiot Project? That Jaffacake dude's one smooth operator. BTW we went 3-6 but we're in BoF 74

ryzenup: ah nuts, i frikkin hibernated again, did we get any better in IBC?
stuckinSBURBia: nah dude, we went 3-6 with negative 13. tbf the pd was promising tho
ryzenup: ah, i guess that means sportsball is done then
ronaldosoxer: dude we're gonna be in the Baptism of FIre... and you know what that means?
ryzenup: world cup 87 folks!
ronaldosoxer: oh ye, and BoF 64, which is amazing
ryzenup: of course you'd say that ron, your name doesn't work without 64, but it's 74 man.
ronaldosoxer: hey, I typo'd... and the 64 is coming soon(tm), i'm just waiting for my old nickserv to expire, not my fault some kekhead hacked me
ryzenup: i mean... it kind of is considering you were reusing passwords, don't you watch vydio lately? they can't shut up about VPN this, Password manager that, PAID CASINO LEGENDS...
though that last one's just an IRLstates meme
ronaldosoxer: dude you love your irlstates man, and yeah, I watch them, but skip the ads. the only disadvantage of adblockers is there's no autoskip sponsors.
stuckinSBURBia: ron, there's extensions for that, there's an extension for everything.
ronaldosoxer: but i have no time to do those sorts of things, my workflow works ok?
gerobarf: hey y'all done research into this weird universe? looks like a nigh-exact replica of IRLstates but with like read-only permissions. It's MV-code F.
ryzenup: F? sis... everyone knows F, the best memes come from there, it's read only because it's a simulation of pure entropy according to the MV-admin's preferences. Some research realm.
Apparently it has tons of the multiverse as creative fiction with blanks almost everywhere though, heck most of our immediate neighbours are in it and the whole sports results and stuff are
like simulated using their entropy and yet they happen in our universe, some people thing that universe controls ours as the seed of all entropy, and honestly we're all in a simulation anyway
and all possible universes exist and yadda yadda yadda quantum mechanical string theory
gerobarf: why F tho?
ryzenup: it's how our portal worked it, nothing really referenced directly, though the portal admins think it might be a reference to some video game item
ChanServ: Server Maintenance in 5 minutes. Estimated time is 15 minutes. Type is "Scheduled Weekly Downtime: RAM fix"
ryzenup: jeez has glory still not fixed that?
gloryglory: dude i've been on vacation, i just got back in the country after we got KO'd from IBC and you pinged me just as roaming turned off...
ryzenup: damn, good timing
gloryglory: yeah but now i've gotta start dealing with backlog fomo before i even get out the damn airport, i was hoping to get home at least man.
ryzenup: oh sorry glory, how's your sister btw?
gloryglory: fine, but mum's still a bit... rough after the whole airport thing, Graintfjall were a little confused by the whole "X" gender on my passport.
ryzenup: they still let you in tho
gloryglory: dude i hadn't come out to mum yet, she isn't really dealing well, you know how she is
[ryzenup: fair. good luck tho, takes a lot to come out as enby in that sorta situation
gloryglory: not by choice, that's the thing ryzen.
gloryglory: anyway, luwu's streaming, so I'mma go watch her for a while, see ya folx later
ryzenup: fair
Chanserv: Server Maintenance in 2 minutes. All channels will become read-only in 30 seconds.
ryzenup: I'd better get chores done, see y'all later
stuckinSBURBia: yeah fair
ChanServ: All channels are now read-only. Server maintenance will commence in 1 minute 30 seconds.

(OOC: I've been busy with IRL (yay mental health/us election/aunt dying) but have another RP to further explain my RP skills. I might not RP often, but when I do, it's quality. IRC style RP may be a key feature, and you will see a few of the same users pop up. This is the slice of life aspect of the nation's story.)

by **Graintfjall** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 5:01 am

Final GS cutoff.

Red Group
Equestria 84–79 Sannyamathaland
Juvencus 84–96 Northwest Kalactin
Hispinas 70–68 Nagore

  Red Group                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northwest Kalactin             10    7   3   774  718  +56
2 Equestria                      10    7   3   861  710 +151
3 Hispinas                       10    6   4   721  737  −16
4 Juvencus                       10    6   4   797  790   +7
5 Nagore                         10    2   8   725  853 −128
6 Sannyamathaland                10    2   8   720  790  −70

Northwest Kalactin ranked above Equestria on H2H.

Orange Group
Pemecutan 59–70 Omerica
Terre Septentrionale 72–86 The Jovannic
Lisander 91–69 Megistos

  Orange Group                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Lisander                       10    8   2   818  698 +120
2 Omerica                        10    8   2   756  695  +61
3 Terre Septentrionale           10    6   4   787  769  +18
4 Pemecutan                      10    5   5   786  751  +35
5 The Jovannic                   10    2   8   713  789  −76
6 Megistos                       10    1   9   703  861 −158

Lisander ranked above Omerica on H2H.

Yellow Group
Indusse 66–82 Chromatika
Valladares 75–68 Kohnhead
Ethane 58–91 Abanhfleft

  Yellow Group                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Valladares                     10    8   2   787  694  +93
2 Abanhfleft                     10    7   3   802  696 +106
3 Chromatika                     10    7   3   735  733   +2
4 Indusse                        10    4   6   739  747   −8
5 Kohnhead                       10    3   7   719  746  −27
6 Ethane                         10    1   9   649  815 −166

Abanhfleft ranked above Chromatika on H2H.

Green Group
Sarzonia 67–112 Royal Kingdom of Quebec
ZSeparatists 77–87 Central Shaneville
Sylestone 73–75 The Grearish Union

  Green Group                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Royal Kingdom of Quebec        10    9   1   877  725 +152
2 Sarzonia                       10    8   2   834  794  +40
3 Central Shaneville             10    7   3   880  801  +79
4 ZSeparatists                   10    3   7   761  789  −28
5 The Grearish Union             10    2   8   707  810 −103
6 Sylestone                      10    1   9   756  896 −140

Blue Group
Hebitaka 58–100 Ottomeme
Delaclava 56–116 Kriegiersien
Drawkland 118–58 Tikariot

  Blue Group                    Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Drawkland                      10    9   1   927  655 +272
2 Kriegiersien                   10    8   2   835  733 +102
3 Delaclava                      10    6   4   755  778  −23
4 Hebitaka                       10    4   6   764  822  −58
5 Tikariot                       10    2   8   648  864 −216
6 Ottomeme                       10    1   9   681  758  −77

Indigo Group
Banija 89–80 Græntfjall
Qasden 82–70 Rwekazaland
Southwest Eastnorth 72–70 Vykta

  Indigo Group                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                         10   10   0   981  681 +300
2 Græntfjall                     10    7   3   776  736  +40
3 Qasden                         10    5   5   735  770  −35
4 Southwest Eastnorth            10    4   6   697  851 −154
5 Vykta                          10    3   7   739  754  −15
6 Rwekazaland                    10    1   9   721  857 −136

Violet Group
Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom 66–74 Trolleborg
Greater Kamilistan 95–78 West Phoenicia
Valanora 73–83 TJUN-ia

  Violet Group                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Valanora                       10    9   1   859  704 +155
2 TJUN-ia                        10    8   2   802  691 +111
3 Trolleborg                     10    7   3   798  721  +77
4 Zeta Reka and Hügeltaldom      10    3   7   714  797  −83
5 West Phoenicia                 10    2   8   686  823 −137
6 Greater Kamilistan             10    1   9   720  843 −123

Octarine Group
Newmanistan 103–76 Maccian
Lochario 67–92 Nova Anglicana
HUElavia 79–76 Squidroidia

  Octarine Group                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Newmanistan                    10    9   1   992  651 +341
2 Nova Anglicana                 10    6   4   766  782  −16
3 Lochario                       10    5   5   734  818  −84
4 Squidroidia                    10    4   6   698  752  −54
5 Maccian                        10    3   7   701  796  −95
6 HUElavia                       10    3   7   705  797  −92

Knockout seedings:

                                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
 1 Banija                         10   10   0   981  681 +300
 2 Newmanistan                    10    9   1   992  651 +341
 3 Drawkland                      10    9   1   927  655 +272
 4 Valanora                       10    9   1   859  704 +155
 5 Royal Kingdom of Quebec        10    9   1   877  725 +152
 6 Lisander                       10    8   2   818  698 +120
 7 TJUN-ia                        10    8   2   802  691 +111
 8 Kriegiersien                   10    8   2   835  733 +102
 9 Valladares                     10    8   2   787  694  +93
10 Omerica                        10    8   2   756  695  +61
11 Sarzonia                       10    8   2   834  794  +40
12 Abanhfleft                     10    7   3   802  696 +106
13 Northwest Kalactin             10    7   3   774  718  +56*
14 Equestria                      10    7   3   861  710 +151*
15 Græntfjall                     10    7   3   776  736  +40
16 Nova Anglicana                 10    6   4   766  782  −16

Northwest Kalactin ranked above Equestria on H2H. No re-seedings to avoid immediate group stage re-matches were necessary. Group stage re-matches will not be re-seeded from the quarterfinals.

Bracket:

A: (1) Banija v Nova Anglicana (16) @ Grand National Arena, Háttmark
B: (2) Newmanistan v Græntfjall (15) @ Grander International Arena, Háttmark
C: (3) Drawkland v Equestria (14) @ TeleGræ Arena, Háttmark
D: (4) Valanora v Northwest Kalactin (13) @ Central National University Arena, Háttmark
E: (5) Royal Kingdom of Quebec v Abanhfleft (12) @ ArchWANK Arena, Háttmark
F: (6) Lisander v Sarzonia (11) @ Arena of November 21st, Háttmark
G: (7) TJUN-ia v Omerica (10) @ BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark
H: (8) Kriegiersien v Valladares (9) @ WhaleWhileUGo Arena, Háttmark

I: Winner A v Winner H @ Central National University Arena, Háttmark
J: Winner B v Winner G @ WhaleWhileUGo Arena, Háttmark
K: Winner C v Winner F @ BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark
L: Winner D v Winner E @ TeleGræ Arena, Háttmark

M: Winner I v Winner L @ Grand National Arena, Háttmark
N: Winner J v Winner K @ Arena of November 21st, Háttmark

O: Loser M v Loser N @ Grander International Arena, Háttmark
P: Winner M v Winner N @ Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark

Tomorrow is an off-day. The Super Skills Contests will be hosted at the Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark.

by **Sarzonia** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 7:22 am

For all the build up of the match between No. 4 Royal Kingdom of Quebec and the No. 10 Sarzonian national basketball team in their final match of the group stage of the 30th International Basketball Championships in front of a sold out crowd at The Palestra in Woodstock, the match itself proved to be a complete dud for the home side.

Quebec officially won the Green Group by throttling Sarzonia 112-67 as boos cascaded down on the Stars as they jogged into the dressing room at halftime down 65-30. It caused point guard Ben Thomas to lash out at one fan who had been getting on his case after he committed his fifth turnover of the match. He would end up with eight on the day to go with two points and four assists. After the match, Thomas apologised for his actions during the match.

"It was heat of the moment," he said. "That's still no excuse. We've got to be better than that. I've got to be better. I'm sorry that I said something that's completely out of my character. I'm sorry I let my anger and frustration about my play and the team's play get the better of me. The fans pay a lot of money to sit in those seats, buy the merchandise, and live or die with teams like us. We let them down. I let us down. I let myself down."

When the final whistle sounded, Stars coach Thomas Manningham jogged directly to the dressing room, not waiting to congratulate Quebecois manager Jean-Gabriel Watt after the match.

"I know I would have said something I'd regret later," Manningham said. "They came in here to prove a point that they're a top-five team in the multiverse and they made a statement tonight. We're just going to have to pick up the pieces before we play Lisander."

The Stars (8-2) will face the sixth seeded Lisander, which also comes into their match with the Stars owning an 8-2 record as Orange Group champions. They put the finishing touches on their group stage with an easy 91-69 victory over bottom of table Megistos. They earned the head-to-head tiebreaker over Omerica to qualify as group winners. Manningham said the Stars haven't yet had much of a chance to scout Lisander.

"We're going to do that tonight," Manningham said. "We're going to watch our players in the skills competition as well, but we're also going to have to be ready to tip off against Lisander."

Mike West led the Stars with 14 points. He fouled out with six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

by **Nova Anglicana** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 7:26 am

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Part 10
Part 11

Anthem changes spark controversy

John McAvoy, Political Columnist, Londinium Courier

The national anthem isn't something most Nova Anglicans think about every day. It's played at international sporting events, which is probably where most people get their exposure to it. However, it's also played at most government functions and voluntarily by various groups and associations at their events when they choose. But when you think of the national anthem, what do you think of? Jesus Shall Reign? Or God Save the Queen? Either?

According to the new People's Party-National-Libertarian government, there's only one right answer. At a press conference earlier today, People's Party leader Michael Ramsey announced that at all official government events and international sporting events, the government was using its executive authority to require the playing of "Jesus Shall Reign". According to Ramsey, "No other country has two national anthems or has as their national anthem a paean to someone who doesn't even live there. 'God Save the Queen' is all very well for state visits or perhaps for the Governor-General, but in all other instances, we need a true Nova Anglican anthem." Ramsey went on to remark that "Jesus Shall Reign" points to Nova Anglicana's heritage as a Christian nation and its message of praise for God and blessings upon Christian nations was incredibly appropriate in an age of increasing secularism. He also announced the government's intention to propose legislation requiring patriotic education, including respect for the national anthem, in all public schools. Ramsey further encouraged "organs of civil society", including professional sports teams, volunteer groups, churches, and other groups to play "Jesus Shall Reign" at appropriate times as well. "With these actions, we believe that we will instill a true sense of national pride in our citizens and remove any lingering spectre of disunity or separatism," Ramsey concluded.

Now why is the government doing this? Isn't "Jesus Shall Reign" already the national anthem? Well, when Nova Anglicana was first founded, we adopted both songs as "suitable for use as the national anthem." However, since "God Save the Queen" was designated also as a royal anthem, "Jesus Shall Reign" was considered the "truer" national anthem and was played much more often. However, as Nova Anglicana grew and became somewhat more religiously diverse (currently 6-7% non-Christian), the government issued guidelines that allowed for local discretion in which anthem to play and said that "in cases where a significant minority may find 'Jesus Shall Reign' objectionable or it is believed that 'God Save the Queen' may promote greater unity, the latter is preferred." So, especially among younger people, "God Save the Queen" may be what they think of when they think of the national anthem. This move by the Ramsey government is a clear attempt to reclaim Nova Anglicana's heritage as a Christian nation and to reverse the policies of previous PJP governments.

The move garnered praise from civil society groups such as Mos Maiorum and NAVA (Nova Anglican Veterans' Association), the largest organized group of Nova Anglican veterans, as well as positive comments from right-leaning media organizations such as the Londinium Democrat and Orville News. King Voss, Leader of the National Party, also praised the move, saying, "This is a common-sense move. The vast majority of our citizens are Christians, this nation was founded on the principles of Christianity, and it's only right that our anthem reflects that. Those who oppose this oppose our heritage and would privilege a tiny minority over the rights of most Nova Anglicans to have their nation and anthem reflect their beliefs."

Meanwhile, the PJP, Stewardship Party, and Liberal Secularists all issued statements against the new government's policy. The Liberal Secularists, as one might expect, were the most strident in opposition, calling it "an attack on our nation's history of diversity and refuge. The right to freedom of religion includes freedom from religion, and the fact that a minority of citizens are non-Christian makes no difference. We must protect the rights of all, and only a truly secular government can do that, not one that privileges one religion over another or no religion." The PJP and Stewardship statements were more restrained, saying that it was "irresponsible to make this change unilaterally" and that "deference should be given to local authorities and civil society groups to choose which anthem they feel best reflects their community." Meanwhile, the left-leaning government in the NAAZE, sure to be a major centre of opposition to the Ramsey government, said that "While we respect and cherish 'Jesus Shall Reign' for its importance to the history of this nation, its lyrics are simply incompatible with a modern nation that defends freedom of religion. We believe that citizens' councils should be convened to discuss a new national anthem that acknowledges our Christian heritage and reflects our contemporary values of tolerance and diversity, but that for now, 'God Save the Queen' is an acceptable anthem."

As for religious groups, the Anglican Church of Nova Anglicana demurred when asked for comment, saying only, "We believe 'Jesus Shall Reign' to be an appropriate hymn in any number of situations, but we neither endorse nor reject it as the only 'national anthem.' This issue ought best to solved through dialogue." The Roman Catholic Diocese of Nova Anglicana and the Orthodox Church of Nova Anglicana had similar responses. However, the United Church of Nova Anglicana's head, Moderator Glenda Murray, denounced the change, saying, "While 'Jesus Shall Reign' is a wonderful hymn, to say that it should be the only national anthem is deeply disrespectful to our brothers and sisters of other faiths. Our government should be a government for all, not just Christians." Representatives of other religions in Nova Anglicana issued a joint statement, saying, "Freedom of religion is a core human right, and the state should not cause individuals to feel as though their beliefs are invalid or do not matter, simply because they do not match those held by the majority. We support the freedom to use either 'Jesus Shall Reign' or 'God Save the Queen' in situations where the national anthem is appropriate."

How will this all shake out? It's unknown. Many Nova Anglicans don't think about the national anthem, and may be ambivalent to the change, or it may mobilize opposition among those who didn't consider themselves politically active. Only time will tell, but we definitely know that the Ramsey government is different than any that came before.

by **TJUN-ia** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 11:13 am

After securing playoff basketball for the first time ever with victory over Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom, some people thought that TJUN-ia didn't need to play aggressive against Valanora on the final day. But Bao Zhou thought differently. This may be the final time that the Jaguars and the Dragons play each other in IBC play for a while and currently, Valanora leads the head-to-head series 2-1. Bao didn't want to just qualify on a tiebreaker over Trolleborg, oh no. He wanted to make it on merit and record alone. So, in a game that would decide playoff seeding alone, the 9-0 Dragons took on the 7-2 Jaguars at the North Wolf Bay Park in Hofvinger, Graintfjall.

Just like the MD5 meeting between these two teams, this one would be tight from the off. Bao Zhou was fighting for the biggest win of his tenure so far while August Andreasson was fighting for the right to be 10-0 heading into the playoffs, a feat only Banija had achieved thus far. It was a very tight first half of basketball with little room for error, and some players thrived in the scenario. Travarius Okuramangawa and Amelia Norberg were having a duel to see who could hit the most threes and it was a delight to watch. It was backwards and forwards basketball until the half arrived, with the Dragons leading by 2 points (44-42).

But Bao really wanted this win, to prove all the doubters wrong, and so he rallied his men for the 2nd half. They certainly delivered. DeMarcus Winston was the man who helped get it done, with 13 points in the 4th Quarter alone. The defence was turned up to 11, but the offence was too. When the final buzzer sounded, Bao's wildest dreams came true: the TJUN-ia Jaguars had beaten the Valanora Dragons 83-73. The Dragons were undefeated no more and, like last time, it was TJUN-ia who beat them by double digits.

The Zhou Dynasty begins at 8-2 - a great campaign by all involved and the BFT knows this for a fact. Now, another break with the Super Skills Contests and all playoff games taking place in the capital of Háttmark. Okuramangawa will be in the 3-point contest, Adamo Zamenhofo in the skills and Winston in the slam dunk contest. Then it's off across town to the BQZ 9-Bank Arena as your 7th seeded Jaguars take on the unranked 10th seeds from Omerica. The Gryphons have shocked many by making it this far, going 8-2 in the Orange Group and only behind Lisnader on a tiebreaker, but TJUN-ia will know this nation well. The last time TJUN-ia and Omerica met in international competition was the final day of group play at IACX when the Jags scored an 89th minute winner to not only qualify for the knockouts but to send Omerica packing in their home tournament. The "Miracle of Falconbarrow" will give any TJUN-ian football fan a sense of pride and unfounded patriotism while Omerica has certainly not forgotten about that game either. It may be a different sport, but Omerica wants revenge. In TJUN-ia's first playoff appearance, Bao Zhou will be looking to take down the Gryphons no matter the cost. We will see in a few days time how well everyone does in playoff basketball. GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Violet Group - All Games @North Wolf Bay Park, Hofvinger)
MD1: @Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 79-78 (3rd)
MD2: vs Trolleborg (=15) L 66-74 (4th)
MD3: @West Phoenicia (UR) W 81-74 (3rd)
MD4: @Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 98-65 (3rd)
MD5: vs Valanora (5) L 69-73 (3rd/3-2/+29PD)
--------------------Break--------------------
MD6: vs Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 84-64 (3rd)
MD7: @Trolleborg (=15) W 78-64 (2nd)
MD8: vs West Phoenicia (UR) W 77-53 (2nd)
MD9: vs Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 87-73 (2nd/OFFICIALLY QUALIFIED)
MD10: @Valanora (5) W 83-73 (2nd/8-2/+111PD)
---------------Super Skill Contest---------------
Ro16: vs Omerica (UR/8-2) @BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark

by **Kriegiersien** » Mon Nov 09, 2020 4:17 pm

The final Blue group news

Delaclava 56–116 Kriegiersien

With a clear win the group stage ended and Kriegiersien is in the round of 16.

Valladares awaits in the first round of the play offs. After all the matches in the blue group the first opponent plays.. in blue jerseys. So the circle seems to be complete. Hopefully not for us, because we want to get into the next round.

But for now the most prestigious contest awaits. The Super Skill Contests!

The training will now completely be focused on this three contests.

Three Point Shooting:

Skills:

and Slam Dunk:

"We are now excercising with our specialists hard for that. After that we can concentrate on the next round, but in my oppinion we abandoned the focus on this competition too much”, said Coach Wedgehog.

by **Graintfjall** » Tue Nov 10, 2020 5:47 am

The Super Skills Contests will be hosted at the Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark. Owing to excellent signups in all three competitions, no reserve players were needed. All the contests are purely for fun and entertainment and have no official IBC standing.

Skills

Each player has 30 seconds to:

Make a corner shot
Pass a slalom through 4 cones while dribbling
Make a straight pass into a target
Pass another slalom with 2 balls forward and then backwards
Make another straight pass into a target
Dribble through a slalom and score the basket

The top 8 qualify for the final.

1 Adamo Zamenhofo (TJU)          25.14
 2 Kevin Hansen (CSH)             26.03
 3 Anakoni Corbinian (KRG)        26.03
 4 Ibezimako Akabueze (BNJ)       26.06
 5 Ulisse McGovern (SQD)          26.08
 6 Mike West (SRZ)                26.28
 7 Jaeden Martines (VYK)          26.43
 8 Franck Briere-Bourque (QUE)    26.45
-----------------------------------------
 9 Joe Green (NWK)                27.18
10 Jung-Hyuk Park (CMT)           27.27
11 Matty Stewart (NOV)            27.43
 — Flemming Christensen (TKT)       DNF
   Francis McCall (KND)             DNF
   Gurkeerat Singh (IND)            DNF
   Haiden Webber (RWE)              DNF
   Kasper Hendrix (TRO)             DNF
   Krister Mariasson (GRÆ)          DNF
   Marcelo Picazo (HIS)             DNF
   Mariano Donner (LIS)             DNF
   Shabazz Christmas (TER)          DNF
   Taveon Holland (DRW)             DNF

1 Ibezimako Akabueze (BNJ)       25.16
2 Mike West (SRZ)                25.94
3 Anakoni Corbinian (KRG)        26.26
4 Franck Briere-Bourque (QUE)    26.42
5 Ulisse McGovern (SQD)          27.10
— Adamo Zamenhofo (TJU)            DNF
  Kevin Hansen (CSH)               DNF
  Jaeden Martines (VYK)            DNF

3 Point Shooting

Each player has 45 seconds to make shots alternating from 45° wing angles. The top 8 qualify for the final, which is staged in two runs.

1 Autumn Trallen (DRW)               20
 2 Chiranjeevi S.G. (IND)             19
   Torfinn Timden (TRO)               19
 4 Yoo Bo-Rahm (QUE)                  18
   Hahry Kydnret (VYK)                18
   Jayne Cruz (SRZ)                   18
   Noel Skíðisson (GRÆ)               18
 8 Travarius Okuramangawa (TJU)       17
-----------------------------------------
 9 Jimmy Haynes (NOV)                 15
   Marie Peyton (SQD)                 15
11 Rick Abbott (NWK)                  14
   Mattias Garcia (CSH)               14
   Labanzi Nabongo (BNJ)              14
   LaToya Hawkins-Kimbrough (TER)     14
   Johnathon Val (KRG)                14
   Dewi Malone (RWE)                  14
   Alex Drancy (LIS)                  14
18 Lia Xiu (CMT)                      13
19 Taylor Emerson (KND)               11
   Cergio Arebalo (HIS)               11
21 Sebastian Johansson (TKT)           7

1 Autumn Trallen (DRW)                 20     21       41
2 Chiranjeevi S.G. (IND)               19     21       40
3 Hahry Kydnret (VYK)                  18     19       37
4 Torfinn Timden (TRO)                 19     12       31
  Yoo Bo-Rahm (QUE)                    18     13       31
6 Travarius Okuramangawa (TJU)         17     13       30
7 Jayne Cruz (SRZ)                     18     11       29
8 Noel Skíðisson (GRÆ)                 18      9       27

Slam dunk

Each player has three attempts at making a dunk. Failing to make the dunk scores 0; any successful dunk receives a score from 5 to 10 (and can go up to 11 at the jury's discretion). The top 8 qualify for the final.

1 Noh Seung-Hoon (QUE)         10   10   11     31
 2 Ezekiel Bullo (BNJ)          10   11    8     29
 3 Martin Ogtrop (TRO)          10    6   10     26
 4 Michael Hughes (NWK)          7   10    9     26
 5 DeMarcus Winston (TJU)       10    6    9     25
   Ivana Condor (KRG)            9   10    6     25
 7 Gerald Madison (DRW)          7    8   10     25
 8 Trent Klatt (SRZ)             9    9    7     25
----------------------------------------------------
 9 Dustin Potts (RWE)            9    8    7     24
   Galatina Robinson (IND)       9    8    7     24
11 Colin Klein (NOV)             7    6    9     22
12 Darren Summers (KND)          8    6    7     21
14 Zlatan Ekstrom (CSH)          6    7    7     20
15 Aelan Wahlka (VYK)            8   10    0     18
16 Artavious McKnight (TER)     11    0    6     17
17 Adrian Reynolds (TKT)        10    0    7     17
   Annabelle Britt (CMT)        10    0    7     17
18 Alessandro Hartins (LIS)      9    0    6     15
19 Cecilio Casias (HIS)          0    9    0      9
20 Ogmund Terjesson (GRÆ)        8    0    0      8

1 DeMarcus Winston (TJU)      9    7   11     27
2 Martin Ogtrop (TRO)         6   10   10     26
3 Ivana Condor (KRG)          9    7   10     26
4 Trent Klatt (SRZ)          10    8    5     23
5 Noh Seung-Hoon (QUE)        8    9    6     23
6 Ezekiel Bullo (BNJ)         5   10    7     22
7 Gerald Madison (DRW)        6    0   10     16
8 Michael Hughes (NWK)        7    0    8     15

Scorination resumes tomorrow with the Ro16.

by **Kriegiersien** » Tue Nov 10, 2020 2:24 pm

Super Skill Contest Medal Table

Nation         G S B 
TJUN-ia        1 0 0
Banija         1 0 0
Drawkland      1 0 0
Sarzonia       0 1 0
Indusse        0 1 0
Trolleborg     0 1 0
Kriegiersien   0 0 2
Vykta          0 0 1

The Kriegiersien team (abbreviated here with KRG, what is funny enough also the abbreviation for Krieselgnome, a popular drug in the country) didn’t win any of the three contests, but at least came third in two of them.
With 2 medals Kriegiersien is obviously the most successful nation here, even though there were no medals, Corbinian got a bouquet and Ivan Condor a table setting for the third places.
Sadly Jonathan Val failed totally in the 3 Point contest, only making 14 successful shots in 45 seconds. With that his nomination for the play-offs is in danger.

Still the motivation is now huge to not leave more success to the other nations in front.
“Now we have to win the tournament to distance TJUN-ia, Banija and Drawkland. To beat Valladares must be the first step. They showed nothing at the skill contest. Literally. We have to beat them”, demanded coach Wedgehog with grim face.

by **Banija** » Tue Nov 10, 2020 3:40 pm

SUBJECT: EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITY

POL SCI 220 - INTRO TO COMPARATIVE POLITICS

"Hey young scholars!

I do hope you are enjoying this Intro to Comparative Politics Course! We are about one third of the way through the semester, and I have just finished grading your papers on the first subject, Comparing Banija's politics pre and post colonization. I guess many of you should have needed to read just a bit more- the averages for this paper are below where I would like to them to be.

But there is no harm in that! That can happen. This is University- we are built to help our students succeed. And fortunately for all of you, I am a basketball fan, at what many would call a basketball school. I'm sure you heard about one of our school's most famous alumni, Ibezimako Akabueze, winning the Super Skills contest at IBC 30 in Háttmark? It inspired me- many of you could use the points, and giving an earned extra credit opportunity for all of you would be a good idea.

Banija will be playing in the IBC 30 knockout stages, as the #1 seed for being the only team to be 10-0. What does that have to do with this history class? Well, Nova Anglicana, Banija's opponent, has just had an election and formed a new government. There is plenty of recent resources available on their political system, all freshly in the news. I want those of you who are willing to deliver me an outline on Comparisons between Nova Anglicana and Banija politics.

Give me comparisons, and outline what you think is better about their system, and things that you think Banija should adopt. To be fitting, the outline will be due on my desk on Monday. And remember, I will engage all opinions! There are no right answers or wrong answers- in politics there is fact and fiction, and then there is your opinion. Remember to separate those!

Professor Allan Davison Jr.
University of Moravica History Department

P.S. And of course, I'd never forget, our favorite Golden Bear alumnus should lead us to victory tomorrow night. Go Lions!

A University of Moravica student, Kevyn Bastumbi, received the email from his professor. He nodded- he would do the assignment. It'd be an interesting one to do- he liked politics, and hey, who didn't love basketball? It was almost a requirement here- University of Moravica is a huge basketball school.

Comparative Political Systems Outline- Nova Anglicana v. Banija

Core Constitutional System- Executive Branch
Nova Anglicana- Constitutional Monarchy with a stand-in Governor-General. Queen Elizabeth II, of a country called the "United Kingdom of Great Kingdom(which, Professor, isn't on any map that I've seen)", is the head of state and her own right the Queen of Nova Anglicana. She rules from a foreign city called London. In her place stands a Governor-General, a named Nova Anglicana citizen, who does all the functions of the monarch. The monarch and her Governor-General in the country have no real power, all executive power is vested in the Prime Minister, or poewrs that the Governor-General has can only be used at the advice of the Prime Minister.

Banija- Semi-Constitutional Monarchy, where the Kabaka(King) has power in foreign affairs and the Katikkiro(Prime Minister) and his Cabinet have power over domestic affairs.

Judgement- Similar or Different?: Different

Legislative Branch Makeup
Nova Anglicana- Bicameral elected legislature. Lower House, the House of Deputies, has 100 seats, half of whom are elected in 50 constituencies, while the other 50 are elected by Proportional Representation. Governments are formed based off of whatever coalition of parties can gain confidence in the House of Deputies. The upper chamber, the Senate is elected as well, but there are only 30 seats in that chamber.

Banija- Unicameral elected legislature, called the Lukiiko. It holds 500 seats. 250 seats are constituencies, while the other 250 seats are elected by proportional representation. Whatever coalition of parties can form a governing coalition and gain the confidence of the chamber is swept into power.

Judgement- Similar or Different?: Nearly similar. The lower Chambers in both countries are elected in exactly the same way(half constituency, half PR), but Nova Anglicana also has an upper chamber.

Current Governmental Makeup
Nova Anglicana- Center-right coalition government. The People's Party, the National Party, and the Liberterian Party formed a government as they together hold the keys to power, with the People's Party as the leading party in the coalition. Pursuing measures engaging fossil fuels, cutting taxes, supporting their Christian Heritage, playing a Christian national anthem, etc...

Banija- Center-right coalition government. The People's Protection Movement and the Christian Patriots League forming a coalition majority, with the the PPM as the leading party in the coalition. Kobe Azizi as Katikkiro(Prime Minister). Pursuing measures to cut taxes, strengthen Christianity within the country.

Judgement- Similar or Different?: Very similar.

Role of Religion
Nova Anglicana- Legally a secular state. Their monarch, however, holds the title Defender of the Faith, although by my understanding that title only applies to her role in her original Queendom, the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Controversy over national anthem, as present government wants to encourage preferred national anthem song that is A. more explicitly Christian, and B. Doesn't mention their foreign Queen. It's unclear which anthem, "Jesus Shall Reign" or "God Save the Queen", their national basketball team will choose to play before their knockout stage match with Banija.

Banija- Legally a Mormon Nation, with the dominant faith, the Puritan Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints(informally known as Banijan or Puritan Mormonism) having an official role in functions of state. The state is charged, among many other things, with protecting the role of the church in the state and culture. The national anthem of this country has always been "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory", although there are some who want a domestic written song that explicitly mentions Banija by name.

Judgement- Similar or Different?: Very different.

by **Drawkland** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 1:19 am

The Three Point Contest

Fortunately for the three Net Corps entrants to the skill contests of IBC 30, they only had to travel across town in Háttmark to the venue that would host the festivities. The lack of a need to spend most of the day traveling gave them extra time to practice as well as have fun on the break day with their fellow teammates.

Taveon Holland, Gerald Madison, and Autumn Trallen had been stars of the Net Corps for many years, and now they were all in the twilight of their careers. Many were expecting at least on them to call it a career, at least in the IBC, following this tournament. Obviously, the goal is a third ring with the team, but with these skill contests, each of the three had a chance to prove why they and the Net Corps were considered so dominant.

Unfortunately for them and all the Drawkian fans watching, Taveon Holland and Gerald Madison had less-than-stellar runs. Holland did not finish the skills course, citing a nagging ankle issue and old age. This didn't prevent his teammates nor Corps fans from clowning him for the poor showing, but it was the excuse nonetheless.

Madison in the dunk contest had a solid starting outing, nailing all three dunks and even earning a 10 on his final try. The Drawkian height advantage proved to be a boon for Madison, who had to worry less about getting up to the basket and more about pulling off something flashy. His 7, 8, and 10 were enough to send him on to the final round, albeit in the 7th position (though some fanatics would insist he did it on purpose). Unfortunately, his form would not improve in the final round, with his first dunk being his worst score, and his second one actually missing the mark. He had a great finale of a 10, but the missed dunk on try #2 set him too far back, and he was stuck in 7th. At least he wasn't someone like Quebec's Noh Seung-Hoon, who scored two perfect dunks and one super perfect dunk in the first round, only to falter in the final round and not even finish with a medal.

With the disappointment of Holland and Madison, it was up to Autumn Trallen to try and save face to prove that Drawkland really does have good players. Trallen is an interesting player, to say the least. While basketball is not divided by gender in Drawkland, it's usually men that top depth charts and have the most star power. Trallen is the exception to this rule, being the only female on the Net Corps' starting lineup, as well as being one of the DBO's household names. She "only" stands at 7'2", also the shortest on the Corps' starting line.

Even ignoring her skill on the court, she's an oddball. Her last name, Trallen, is a rare surname in Drawkland as it is. Trallena is the name of Sonnel's sun, and the name is descended from that. Her hair, which is always held in a ponytail on the court, is such a light blonde it's nearly white, and that's the natural color as well. Her fair complexion stands out in a crowd, and makes her instantly recognizable on the court (especially in Drawkland's standard black uniforms, which serve as a stark contrast).

For the Net Corps, she's been the sharpshooter that the Corps has needed on many occasions, with pointscoring and dominant abilities that rival even a superstar like Holland. She was the natural choice for the three point contest, and everybody hoped that she would deliver. But, as with the other two entrants, her age has started to show a bit, and nobody was holding their breath. Perhaps they were right to do that, because it just made what happened next so much more exhilarating.

"And now we're going to see the veteran sharpshooter from Drawkland, Autumn Trallen, take up the court. The other Drawkian entrants have not impressed so far, so Trallen will be the last hope of the Net Corps coming home with a little extra silverware. She has the most three-pointers in Net Corps history, so it's easy to say she's used to shooting from here. She's done some of her best work on the court when getting on a hot streak, so if she gets hot in here she may be able to run away with the competition!

"Autumn Trallen is in the spot now, waiting for the whistle to start. Remember, there's 5 locations to shoot from on the arc, with 5 balls at each. The last ball at each spot is worth double. Most of the entrants so far have been getting in the 14-18 point range, so she should try to score more than 15 to have a good shot at making the final round. And here's the whistle!

"She gets off to a good start, hits the first shot, the second, and misses the third. Fourth goes off the rim, but she sinks the fifth to put her at 4 points. On to the 45 degree spot, she misses the first, hits the second, and third, and fourth! She misses the bonus ball though, so she's at 7 points going to the middle position. She's onto a better start here, hits the first, second, and third. Fourth is a miss, but here's the bonus ball drained to make it 12 points!

"On to the other 45 position, and she's back in business again, hitting the first two, three, four, wow! She's got them all! She's at 18 points and sure to advance now going into the final corner. Let's see what kind of lead she can build - oh. Three straight misses, make that four, but she sinks the final ball to put her at 20. Despite the rather lackluster ending, Autumn Trallen has just set the bar for all the remaining competitors. We still have a handful of players left to shoot, but her mark of 20 is two over the current second best in Quebec's Yoo Bo-Rahm. Hopefully these players can come back strong for the finals!"

"And that's how you do a skills contest!" Autumn gloated when she returned to the group of Net Corps players present courtside for the contest. Holland and Madison playfully groaned while the other Corps members gave Autumn high fives and back pats.

"Hey, don't make my mistake! You still have the final round to go." Gerald Madison cautioned her, only half joking.

"The difference between you and me is that you barely made the cut, and I'm out here wrecking the curve!" She shot back, giving him a knock on the shoulder.

"Careful there Trallen, wouldn't want to break your wrist jerking yourself off right before final round ..." Holland retorted.

"I'd have a hard time talking shit if I couldn't even make a single shot to finish my round. Gimme a break!" Trallen waved dismissively at him, and went to grab a bottle of water.

"I think she has no right to talk shit this early." Madison huffed as she walked off. "There's still a round to go."

"You would know, wouldn't you?" Holland laughed, and the two engaged in friendly fisticuffs as the present Corps members moved back to their seats.

The final round of the three point contest pitted only the top 8 from the first round against each other. It proceeded in reverse placement order from the first round results, so Autumn was set to go last of all the competitors. This is exactly where she wanted to be, considering she would just need to match whoever had the best sum without having to worry about setting a high enough bar for another competitor to come.

For the bottom half of the final competitors, their second round outing would be much more lackluster. Travarius Okuramangawa, the TJUN-ian entry, barely squeaked in with a 17 point first round. Their second round would only be a decrease in output, only managing 13 points and pretty much sealing their fate outside of the podium with a 30 point ending. A few of the first round 18-pointers managed to fall to even lower depths, with Sarzonia's Jayne Cruz and the home nation's Noel Skíðisson getting point totals that would've put them in the basement of the first round.

To buck the depressing trend, newcomers Vykta's Hahry Kydnret actually managed to improve upon their first round showing, getting a 19 point round to up their sum to 37. At this point, halfway through the final round, this put them at a surprising 7 point lead above those that had already gone. This lead would only drop to 6 after the next two entrants, Trolleborg's Torfinn Timden and Quebec's Bo-Rahm both had dud rounds like the earlier final round showings.

This is where the competition would heat up, though. With only two players left to go, the bar was only at 37 points. For Autumn, this placed the bar at a relatively easy 17 points. A solid but not showstopping round could see her through as a champion, and anything better than a total collapse would guarantee her a podium position. This situation would not not last long, however. Indusse's Chiranjeevi S.G., who was tied with Timden for second place after the first round, came out to play. Like Kydnret, he actually managed to come away with improvement in the final round, earning an astounding 21 points. Not only did that put him firmly in the top spot, but it was also the best round out of any player yet.

"Well, Drawkland's Autumn Trallen certainly has her work cut out for her now! She managed to come away with the top scoring round in the first round, but here in the final round she's been upstaged so far by Indusse's veteran starting small forward, Chiranjeevi S.G. Now Trallen is the final player to go here in the IBC 30 three point contest. If she can equal her impressive 20-point stand from the first round, she'll be able to match Chiranjeevi, but will likely lose on a tiebreaker due to his contest-best 21 point round in the finals.

"She's coming to the line now in the corner and awaiting the whistle. It all comes down to this folks - she'll need a 21 point round to come away with a sure win. Only two players have actually improved from their first round performance, so it's anyone's guess as to how Trallen will fare here. The crowd is quiet and everybody's waiting for the whistle."

*tweet*

"And off she goes! Once again she makes her first and second shot, and the third as well. She gets her first miss on the fourth, but makes it up with the bonus ball. Five points to start, and now on to the first 45 degree. She banks this first one off the rim for a miss, but she's got the second. Hits the third, fourth, and finishes it with the bonus! She's at 10 going into the middle row.

"She's got the first one here, and the second, and the third, and the fourth - aw, but she misses the last one. So close to a perfect row but she couldn't capitalize. She's now at 14 with 12 points still left to play for. Lots of room for error, but it looks like she may not need it as she hits the first one here from the 45 degree. She's slowed down a bit now, but there's plenty of time left on the clock. Oh, now she's missed her second and third shots, and now the fourth ... oh dear, she's missed four of five from this one.

"Trallen's got 15 points and needs 21 to win the contest, with only six points to go. She has to hit every shot from the corner to win this ... first one is in! Second one is ... in! Third one ... in! Time starting to wane, the fourth shot ... in! One more to go for the win ... AND IT'S IN! Autumn Trallen has just won the IBC 30 three point contest for Drawkland!"

The crowd in Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena went wild. As Autumn took her final shot, she turned and looked away from the basket before the ball had even hit the net. She knew it was going in, and kept her shooting hand up as she looked at her teammates, now going wild on the sideline. It was a beautiful ending to the contest, and perhaps the most exciting, depending on how you felt about the close margins and packed podium of the dunk contest.

The three point contest podium was a step above the rest, with Trallen at the top getting the gold and the valiant efforts of Chiranjeevi S.G. earning them a silver medal. Hahry Kydnret, despite only getting bronze, had a great silver lining ending to a tournament that saw him on the bench for a team that went 3-7 and missed the playoffs. Nobody could say these players didn't deserve their spots, as every one of them had taken a good first round and followed it up with an even better final.

Of these three sharpshooters though, only one had to stay in Græntfjall. Autumn Trallen may have gotten a little bit of silverware for Drawkland, but her and the rest of the team still have their sights set on something greater. And as the third seed in the playoffs, it's not hard to imagine that the IBC may see Drawkland competing for a title once again.

There's still lots of ball to be played, though. Only time will tell if the final ride for many of Drawkland's IBC icons will end up on the top.

by **Graintfjall** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 5:10 am

(OOC: Drawkland, you are correct about the 3P contest format, sorry for the confusion!)

Ro16 cutoff. I have found a 3P scorinator for my game and will post the result as soon as I can.

Banija 98–66 Nova Anglicana
Drawkland 77–69 Equestria
Valanora 86–57 Northwest Kalactin
Royal Kingdom of Quebec 82–62 Abanhfleft
Lisander 79–79 Sarzonia (87–89 OT)
TJUN-ia 81–78 Omerica
Kriegiersien 124–47 Valladares

Thank you to Hispinas for scorinating my match:

Newmanistan 69–62 Græntfjall

Remaining schedule:

I: Banija v Kriegiersien @ Central National University Arena, Háttmark
J: Newmanistan v TJUN-ia @ WhaleWhileUGo Arena, Háttmark
K: Drawkland v Sarzonia @ BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark
L: Valanora v Royal Kingdom of Quebec @ TeleGræ Arena, Háttmark

M: Winner I v Winner L @ Grand National Arena, Háttmark
N: Winner J v Winner K @ Arena of November 21st, Háttmark

O: Loser M v Loser N @ Grander International Arena, Háttmark
P: Winner M v Winner N @ Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark

by **Sarzonia** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 8:44 am

Mike West saved the season for the Sarzonian national basketball team not once, but twice during the Round of 16 match against Lisander. With time running out toward the end of regulation and the match level, he stole an inbounds pass to prevent the sixth seeds from firing a potential match-winning shot.

With the clock at just over 1 second left in overtime and the Stars down one, he launched a 3-pointer that rattled in as the horn sounded and gave Sarzonia an 89-87 upset victory that resulted in the Stars piling on top of each other at centre court.

Sarzonia coach Thomas Manningham raised his arms in triumph and hugged associate head coach Mario Bengsten before he walked over to shake hands with his Lisander counterpart Helder Machado.

"I had a tough day up until the end of regulation," West said, "but I wasn't going to let that keep me from contributing." West was held to five points during regulation before he scored eight during overtime. He committed five turnovers and only added four assists and three rebounds. However, his father, legendary Stars coach Henry West, said all that would be forgotten.

"If they lost, people would have talked about his struggles, " Henry West said. "But because he came up big in the biggest moments, that will be what people remember."

The victory by the Stars was the only upset of the Round of 16 as all the other higher seeds won. In the matchup expected to be the closest, eighth seeded Kriegiersien walloped Valladares 124-47, whilst the other match that was closest to being an upset was seventh seeded TJUN-ia edging Omerica 81-78.

Sarzonia's reward for their dramatic victory will be third seeded and recent former world champions Drawkland. It promises to be a difficult matchup for the Stars, but Mike West said the team was used to overcoming adversity.

"We've been tested a lot, especially in the second half of qualifying," he said. "Drawkland are a great team and we're going to have our work cut out for us, but we're giving to be ready to put up a fight."

by **TJUN-ia** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 10:31 am

After a statement win to stop the undefeated run of Valanora on the final day of group play and a good showing in the Super Skill Contests (with all players making the final and DeMarcus Winston taking the gold in the Slam Duck event), TJUN-ia arrived in the capital of Graintfjall, Háttmark, with one goal in mind: going as far as they could in their first-ever playoffs. To the BFT, this tournament was already a success no matter what happened from here, but a good run could show the world that the Hoops-Jags can play ball with the best of them. With a potential match-up against either the hosts or the defending camps Newmanistan the prize for winning at the BZQ 9-Bank Arena, TJUN-ia looked to make history against the unranked Gryphons from Omerica. They had shocked a lot of people bay making the playoffs on debut and with them probably still hurt from the "Miracle of Falconbarrow" in IACX, everyone knew this would be a big game.

This game will go down as the game that gave many people across the multiverse heart problems. It was tight from the off in the first half, with both teams playing ping-pong with the scoreboard. When one team scored, the other would score themselves and this back and forth would define the entire game. Both Bao Zhou and Alain Desjardins wanted this game badly and the players were the same, the 10 starters playing out of their shoes for the glory of reaching the quarterfinals for the first time. At the half, it was 44-44, a true testament to how badly both teams wanted this win.

The 2nd would be just as tight but with the clock running out, the pressure mounted on all on the court. Travarius Okuramangawa and José Peñalez were trying to score as many points as they could, but Jasmine Rier and Gaultier Linville were doing the same. Kirsty Breckenridge and Nicéphore Stavros were weaving their way to buckets as much as they could, but so were "Slam Dunk King" Winston and Mindaugas Karnišovas. Jean-Jacques Mpolando played both attack and defence brilliantly, but so did Sy Donati. With such good play from both sides and with both coaches giving it all, it was a shame that one of these team had to fall.

But one did. 5.2 seconds on the clock, scores tied at 78, a throw-in by Karnišovas is picked up by José Antonio Rodríguez - a player we rarely see on the court. He heaved a 3 into the basket, to the sheer delight of the bench. 81-78, 1.5 on the clock. Omerica tries a hail mary, but the ball hits the rim and falls onto the court. Epic scenes ensue. TJUN-ia were going to the Quarter Finals. TJUN-ia had broken Omerican hearts once again.

The Zhou Dynasty is still alive but by a whisker. Omerica were great opponents but TJUN-ia somehow prevailed, making the Quarters for the first time ever in this already-historic campaign. But after events across town, they knew the next opponent and it was a big one. TJUN-ia will play the defending champs. TJUN-ia will play the team whose only loss was to Nova Anglicana. TJUN-ia will play the number 1 team in all of basketball, who just took down the hosts in a tight game. TJUN-ia, the Jaguars, will play the Rockets of Newmainstan at the WhaleAsYouGo Arena. My God. May Margaret have mercy on our souls. GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Violet Group - All Games @North Wolf Bay Park, Hofvinger)
MD1: @Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 79-78 (3rd)
MD2: vs Trolleborg (=15) L 66-74 (4th)
MD3: @West Phoenicia (UR) W 81-74 (3rd)
MD4: @Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 98-65 (3rd)
MD5: vs Valanora (5) L 69-73 (3rd/3-2/+29PD)
--------------------Break--------------------
MD6: vs Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 84-64 (3rd)
MD7: @Trolleborg (=15) W 78-64 (2nd)
MD8: vs West Phoenicia (UR) W 77-53 (2nd)
MD9: vs Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 87-73 (2nd/OFFICIALLY QUALIFIED)
MD10: @Valanora (5) W 83-73 (2nd/8-2/+111PD)
---------------Super Skill Contest---------------
Ro16: vs Omerica (UR) @BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark W 81-77 (2nd)
QF: vs Newmanistan (1) @WhaleWhileUGo Arena, Háttmark

by **Kriegiersien** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 12:05 pm

The changing room of the Kriegiersien team. Coach Larissa Dewy put away a pinboard.

„So much to the offense. This is not our problem. No one can stop us if we have the ball. Our problem is the defense. And for that we have Dr. Jack Ill, who will help you to perform better. Dr. Ill?”

The addressed doctor pushed up his glasses and began to muster the players while peeling an orange.

“We must play more efficient in the defense. For that I have special orders for some of you. Ivory, you are a great playmaker…”
“Thank you”, hummed the pony, smiling.
“And so no one will expect you to guard your opponent like an angry wolf, this will be your focus.”
“But I am not that much of a defense player..”
“And so no one will expect that. They will think what a cute nice pony you are…”
“Thank you.”
“But you will not be tomorrow! This is the guy you will guard with all your hate!”
He showed her a photo of Ibezimako Akabueze, Point Guard from Banija.
„But I don’t hate him, he is a great player…“
„Do you know what he said? He said he hates muffins. And that’s what he did to a muffin.“
He showed her a photo of a muffin, smashed by a basketball.
„He didin‘t“, gasped Ivory.
„He did. And he laughed about it. So what will you do to him?“
„I will end him. I will destroy him!“, Ivory shouted with foam at her mouth.

„Very good. Bugezog“, he turned to the orcish center.
„I will smash anyone.“
„No, no you won‘t. See, that only leads to fouls and that isn‘t that helpful, you need to focus on the real enemy.“
He showed him the Basketball, letting it move around the room.

„This is what you will attack. This is what you want to get. This what you want and not give it back until you have stuffed it into the opponents basket. Do you understand?”
Bugezog starred at the Basketball, following its movement and nodded. The doctor snapped with his fingers.

“And for the rest of you I have further pictures and .. something to peel”, he said, giving out photos and oranges.
"Tomorrow you will take out Banija."

by **Chromatika** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 3:32 pm

Chromatika in IBC 30
In Haiku Form!
Outtro

In their first foray
Penguins go seven and three
Damn you, tiebreakers!

Many thanks to Graintfjall for putting up with my horrible haikus.

by **Banija** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 3:51 pm

"This is a heavyweight fight" Coach Lavaga declares as Banija prepares to face Kriegiersien in the IBC 30 Quarterfinals

Coach Lavaga looks on during Banija's 32 point victory in the Round of 16 of IBC 30

Háttmark, GRAENTJFALL- Ezekiel Bullo led the way with 24 points and 7 rebounds, as Banija jumped out to an early 13-3 lead and never looked back against the other Lions, downing Nova Anglicana by a 32 point margin to open the knockout stages. Banija entered the knockout stages as the #1 overall seed, being the only team to finish the group stages undefeated here in North Rushmore. Of course, that means nothing. Veteran leader and team captain Saihou Uster said as much in a press conference before the Nova Anglicana. "Who cares what our record was in the group stages? We know our goals here. Once we get to the knockout stages of this tournament, we know what we face- it's either four and won, or one and done. And we, like everyone else, want to be the lone team in the former category."

The team's focus level and drive stayed at a high level throughout the match, something that Coach Lavaga remarked upon. "The nice thing about being the #1 overall seed, compared to us being the #9 overall seed last time around, is that it puts you in a better spot to succeed. And we mean no disrespect to Nova Anglicana- they've got an excellent team, with excellent players. But you don't want to be playing a team like Sarzonia, or Quebec, or whomever, in the first or second round. Doing well in the group stages prepares us for success later on, and that is why I was so proud that we fought our way to a 10-0 record. This is where it really gets big though. Throw your records out every single game- each game is a do or die."

Banija and Newmanistan are the co-favorites to reach the championships game for the second straight tournament. Coach Lavaga, when asked about it, quickly poured water on the notion of the team thinking about Newmanistan. "Look, they're the defending champions. The road to glory goes through them. But if we're spending all of our time spent on the last tournament, or we are wasting our energy thinking about a matchup with Newmanistan this tournament, I can guarantee you that the only chance we'll have at facing Newmanistan will be at IBC 31." And he's right. There are plenty of elite squads who can go toe to toe with Banija, and certainly a number who fancy themselves as good as, if not better than, this Lions squad. Valanora, the Royal Kingdom of Quebec, Drawkland, Newmanistan, and Sarzonia would all not be scared of facing off against us.

And Banija's next opponent certainly fears nothing. Kriegiersien. The #9 seed- the same seeding we were in the last tournament, when we made our run to the final. Coach Lavaga talked about Kriegiersien. "This matchup is a true heavyweight fight. The way their team has been playing the past few weeks, they are certainly good enough to lift the trophy. Just look at their wins in their last two games. Winning by 60 points on Matchday 10, to silence all doubters. And then, taking an even greater step. They dropped Valladares by 77 points. They won a knockout stage game by 77 points? Valladares has a strong squad with a lot of good players, and are well coached. But Kriegiersien just blew the doors off of them."

"A win like that gives you confidence. We remember when Banija were young upstarts, trying to knock doors down in the world of international basketball. And now, the roles are reversed. We're the #1 seed. They are trying to beat squads like us to get to the semifinals. And they are certainly capable of it. They've won their last two games by an average of 68 and a half points. We expect and will prepare for a tight, physical battle the entire way through. The time for blowouts is past- all of the tournament's pretenders have been sent home, only legitimate contenders remain."

It is indeed going to be a tight game. And it is one of four mouthwatering quarterfinals. The gaps in basketball might be the largest in all international sports- even the Round of 16 can regularly see massive blowouts. But when only the elite remain, you will watch something beautiful. While Newmanistan are heavy favorites against TJUN-ia, the all-AO quarterfinal of Valanora v. Royal Kingdom of Quebec looks to be a highlight, as those two look to duke it out. On the other side of the bracket, Sarzonia and Drawkland both have elite programs, and will duel for a place in the semifinals, most likely to play Newmanistan.

So what does Banija have to do against Kriegiersien? Of course, Kriegiersien's confidence is sky high. They have all the skill in the world. But they lack the experience. It's hard to say how much playoff experience matters, but this Banija national team has plenty. Making runs to the Gold medal game of the Olympiad, as well as the Final of IBC 29, we know that Banija won't get rattled when the going gets tough. But will Kriegiersien? Will the lights be too bright? We'll have to force them to answer that question. IT's going to be a tight game all the way through the end. We'll have to keep the pressure up. Frequent traps. Push in transition. Always remind them of the stage they are playing on.

Banija are slight favorites- the Lions are 6.5 point favorites to advance to our 4th ever IBC semifinal in the past seven tournaments, but Kriegiersien is going to be right. I would take Banija straight up, but Kriegiersien on the points. We believe that it'll have to come down to the final possession. There is no luck in Kriegiersien's run, it is all skill- we can't wait for the clock to strike Midnight. We have to take off the glass slipper ourselves. But we'll see what happens. As always, go Banija!

by **Drawkland** » Wed Nov 11, 2020 11:56 pm

IBC 30: QUARTERFINALS AWAIT
Written By: Emily Jackson and Chuck Paul

The playoffs for IBC 30 are in session, and much to nobody's surprise, Drawkland has made it there. Even with the loss to Kriegiersien in the early half of the group stage, our advancement to the playoffs was never really in question. Our performance in said playoffs, however, was a little more dicey. After all, a team that can drop a game to a midmajor squad like Kriegiersien can easily drop one to a similar or even better opponent.

There's more to talk about before we get into the playoff picture, though. Let's discuss the second half of that group stage!

GROUP STAGE SECOND HALF
When you're a Pot 1 team, especially one that's at the upper echelons of a tournament's ranks, the group stage is less of a fight and more of a warmup to the real tests. A place for your team to cut their teeth, maybe treat a few teething problems with personnel changes, make a few mistakes when they aren't as important. Of course, the importance of a strong group stage shouldn't be discounted, but for better or worse, a top team doesn't have to sweat it as much. Just go in and execute.

This is exactly what the Net Corps did in the first half, minus the hiccup against Kriegiersien. Going into the second half, the gameplan was the same, but now the team already had a game under their belt against each of their upcoming opponents. No drastic changes were necessary, except against Kriegiersien of course, where they'd need to stay tight in the beginning of the game. This plan went smoothly with the rematch against Hebitaka. While the Hebitakan defense wasn't able to do much against the Net Corps once again, their offense was much improved and a lot more confident, which resulted in plenty more baskets and a more respectable 73-91 loss. Respectable compared to the 37 point margin in the first leg, anyway.

The first leg against Delaclava was expected to be a tough matchup, but ended up being a cupcake win. It seemed that with another 5 games under their belt, the Delaclavan team had barely kept their form intact. Despite still being in the playoff race at this time, everybody knew that the Blue Group playoff race going between Drawkland and Kriegiersien trying to grab the better spot. Unfortunately, the Delaclavans themselves seemed to play like they knew they didn't have a chance at the playoffs. All hope was nearly lost, and the 62-94 Drawkian win only solidified that. Not only did Drawkland manage to not shit the bed against a ranked squad again, but Kriegiersien lost their first match of the campaign, a 12-point loss to the improving Hebitaka team.

With Kriegiersien now level on wins, it would become crucial that Drawkland hold serve and manage to beat them on the return leg. The unranked and now-eliminated Ottomeme was in the way first, however. This squad had yet to win a game and had been in quite poor form, so Coach Morgan heavily rotated in the bench for this match to get them more minutes on the floor. The 76 point output was not ideal, but it showed that the Corps backups still have some bite and could perform in a pinch. Reportedly, Morgan didn't tell the bench of the gameplan, so they were relatively unprepared for the long playing time. Even playing on short notice, they performed.

All eyes would be on this match though. With Drawkland and Kriegiersien even on wins, this match would essentially decide the group title. Either Kriegiersien would win (or lose by less than 3) and be ahead of Drawkland by head to head and a one game lead. A Drawkland win by 3 or more would put Drawkland on top by point differential and a win. And no matter who won, they'd be up by a win, so even a final matchday loss would keep them ahead on head-to-head (the only exception being Drawkland by winning by less than 3, but that's a fringe case anyway).

The last IBC group stage featured a similar situation, with Drawkland dropping the first leg in close fashion to Kriegiersien. The second leg was a 30-point blowout in Drawkland's favor, and most Drawkian fans hope we'd experience deja vu. This time, it wasn't deja vu, because the Drawkian dominance wasn't in the 30 point range ... it was actually a 40-point crushing of the eager Kriegiersien team. Once again, the Net Corps just had to buckle down and actually do their jobs against a tough opponent. This game was close for about a quarter and a half, but the deep rotation and experience of the Corps had seemingly limitless stamina to keep their feet on the gas, and the Kriegiersien squad simply couldn't keep up. It's really an unfair scoreline, because the Kriegiersien team really is a powerful squad ... they just didn't have the power to take on Drawkland twice and win. In a tournament or two? I could see the squad hold their own ... but this time, the Corps comes clutch again.

The final match of the group stage was merely a formality, as the win over Kriegiersien had guaranteed Drawkland a playoff spot and likely the top seed. Delaclava had a last chance to make the playoffs by directly facing Kriegiersien ... both team's playoffs started a game early. Win, or go home. For the Net Corps, they had a game free of real stakes, though they couldn't slack too hard. A loss here could turn their playoff path from punching down to punching up. The floundering squad of Tikariot basketball would be the final group target, and the determined Drawkian war machine had to leave no doubt. With playoff seedings depending on point differential, the win needed to be convincing and impressive. There would be no high bench rotation, because with the break days coming up, there was no need to hold back. No holding back you say? That's a 60-point Drawkland win.

vs EQUESTRIA
With the playoff ticket punched and a #3 seed in the playoffs secured, the group stage had gone pretty much according to plan. The first round opponent would be the anomalous Equestria basketball team. The basketball league in the Equestrian States is horrifically underfunded and you'd expect the play to be borderline amateur, yet their squads consistently kick ass in the IUBC spheres. Yet in the same vein, their national team has been devoid of any success until last IBC, where they made a shock run to the semifinals on home court.

Even being ranked #8 in this tournament, they didn't exactly have a convincing group stage. The Red Group was entirely in question until the final matchday, with Equestria, Northwest Kalactin, and Juvencus (forza!!!) all still in a position to make the playoffs ... at 6-3 apiece. Luckily for the Equestrians, they were scheduled to play bottom-feeders Sannyamathaland, while Kalactin and Juvencus would have to play each other to decide the other playoff spot. Only a crazy upset would send them packing, and took care of business with an unconvincing 5-point win.

They were definitely a team to take seriously, but there's a reason they were slotted to play the 3rd seed in the first round of the playoffs. Just like any of their tougher group stage opponents, all the Net Corps had to do was play their signature ball and not make mistakes. Things almost went to plan.

The Equestrian defense proved to be more stringent than expected. While the Net Corps had been consistently scoring 90 points or more in the group stage while the starting five were getting the majority of playing time, this time they were held to under 80. The game itself was quite close for the first three quarters of play. There were flashes of that IBC 29 squad that made a semifinal run and awed fans in front of a home crowd. Here though, in Rushmore and neutral territory, they didn't have as much of an edge. The Net Corps, which has a massive following and tends to travel well, had the crowd edge. Plus, the Corps had conquered their Round of 16 blues a half dozen tournaments ago. The Equestrians had only escaped these doldrums once before, and there was not that innate confidence or endurance.

Simply put, the Net Corps outlasted the Weavers, and pulled away to a sizable multi-score lead in the fourth quarter to cement their place. Akio Yoshida made a late run, scoring 4 or 5 from the floor in the final 5 minutes, but the Net Corps offense refused to miss in that timeframe, including three straight three-pointers by IBC 30 three-point champion Autumn Trallen to really drive the dagger in. Once again, Drawkland was on to the next round.

QF vs SARZONIA
The upcoming quarterfinal matchup for Drawkland is really quite a treat. If all the higher seeds won their first round games, Lisander would be the opponent for this quarterfinal tilt. However, Lisander was the only higher ranked seed to lose their first round matchup, against the rising returners of Sarzonia. It was by no means an easy win, though, as it was left tied at 79 after the final whistle. Team hero Mike West had to make a buzzer-beating three to wrestle the win away from Lisander in overtime, and send Sarzonia to the quarterfinals for the first time in decades.

Things will not be easy for the Stars though, because now they have to face us. The #2 ranked, #3 seeded Net Corps, on the warpath to make a sixth straight semifinal (God willing). Being ranked #15, not even three full cycles into their return, and being the furthest into the playoffs that this new squad has been to, it's a recipe for disaster. And yet ... this seems to have "trap game" written all over it. Sure, they're not even in the Top 10 of the IBC rankings, but they're the best team remaining that isn't. Hell, Kriegiersien came into this tournament tied for 29th, and they've been playing like a Top 3 squad for the past few games (not counting when they played us).

What I'm saying is that logically, mathematically, and hopefully, Drawkland should wipe the floor with Sarzonia and go on to try and play for a title. I think we all know, deep down, that it's not going to happen. Drawkland may be undefeated in IBC quarterfinals, but there's a first time for everything. The Grid Corps suffered their first Round of 16 loss in ages just a few months ago, and I think that was the wakeup call that we're never a true juggernaut. Look out around the bend, my friends, and don't be fooled. This is going to be a tough matchup, and the Corps will need to fight hard to come away with a win against the Stars.

As far as the rest of the playoffs go, we have several interesting matchups. The 29-ranked TJUN-ia and Kriegiersien are going to be facing the top seeds in Banija and Newmanistan. For better or worse, it's time for these worldbeaters to prove they actually can beat the world ... if not, they'll go home with a rank boost and a silver lining - they've won a playoff game. Even if they (likely) get smashed by the Banijan Buzzsaw and Newmanistani ... Hard-To-Beat Guys, they'll definitely be teams to fear next time around.

The biggest marquee match for this quarterfinals is the #5 vs #7 ranked Royal Kingdom of Quebec vs Valanora: two teams who've been hovering in the IBC top five and top ten for almost a dozen cycles but never being able to truly break through to a title. In this tournament, they're the 4th and 5th seed, neck and neck, with a lot to prove. A semifinal berth in this tournament would go a long way to prove their worth as a truly viable squad, and with a bit of luck, maybe even prove their worth as a champion. It all starts with this match, though, and in my opinion, it's a complete toss-up. Their group stage performances were nearly identical, and both teams have what it takes. It's just a question over who will have the greater performance over 40 (or more) minutes. I fully expect this game to go to overtime, maybe even multiple overtimes.

In my opinion, the IBC Top Three are simply too good right now!_{oh god oh fuck I jinxed it} I expect yet another Banija-Newmanistan-Drawkland semifinal, with a special guest appearance from whoever wins the cutthroat Valanora vs Quebec matchup. The efforts of the lower quarterfinal squads have been valiant though, and I wouldn't be surprised if one of them slips in to be dominated in the semis. Let's just hope it's not Sarzonia taking up this mantle, eh?

Assuming a BNJ-NEW-DRK-(VAL/QUE) semifinal, the end result is entirely random. There is no telling who will come out on top, because each of these squads, especially the top three, have been absolutely laying waste to everything in their path. This would imply a renewal of the Drawkland-Newmanistan basketball rivalry in the semifinals (again), and Banija facing off against a fellow AO nation. It will be must-watch television, once against assuming things go this route. If not, you'll have a cinderella team or two to root for and pray to not get steamrolled on international TV. I can only hope that, in this situation, the Corps comes out on top once again, especially in what seems to be the core squad's sunset season.

If you're a stickler for trends, you may say the Net Corps isn't due for a title yet! After all, we won IBC 25 and 28, which means we'll be winning 31 next. To that I say, shut the hell up trend stickler, did you even watch this World Bowl? Yikes! Drawkland can win this IBC as easily as anybody else at the top, but only time will tell who truly has the blood of champions in them. There is only one thing left to say now. On Corps.

by **The Royal Kingdom of Quebec** » Thu Nov 12, 2020 2:55 am

Running Up That Hill

PART 8 (2/2) (36 and 2/2) - Graveyard

Quebec City, 2023

‘It was a quiet Monday mid-term evening at Hebdomadaire Gashouse, but the pub was extremely packed with mourners. Dr. Heo, with his longcoat wet and cold, was doing his best not to fall into a particular state of grief mid-conversation with Gavin de Ramaut, an older student of his supervisor living out on a rural Acadiee state. Unlike the young assistant professor who returned to his alma mater three years ago on a tenure-track offer, Mr. de Ramaut was dressed quite simply so with lose jacket and old, crumpled dressed shirt, and his distressed demeanour had only suggested that his quiet, routine-filled mode of life, was thoroughly disturbed by the news that came from Quebec City three days ago.

'Well, good to see you, Monsieur.' said Dr. Heo, as he quietly gathered his thoughts, trying his best to ignore the temptation of alcohol that was flowing like usual. ‘Your latest book...I admit, was a good reflection of your time, when you were unsure about everything...madly in love, yet was unsure on how and what-’

'Thanks, the same goes to you, boy.' said Gavin de Ramaut, his body still slumbering from the weight that dropped on his shoulders as the casket went down earlier. 'Poor old doc. He always told us to live like a maverick, and so he went, down and away, like one.' Gavin de Ramaut, just one of many ecrivains who had gone past Dr. Kim Sang-Doh's modules at St. Croix over the past two decades, was present at the front row of the ceremony and had barely any emotional energy out of him. Dr. Heo remembered reading about how the young man, who lost his wife and mother of two ten years ago, has since married and have had two young children at Coxwell Park.

Good ole Lauzons, the clan of many but not the plenty, Dr. Heo still remembered how Dr. Kim once commented about his friend and Gavin's father-in-law, Douglas-Gabriel Lauzon, the 12th Baron Lauzon, on a casual conversation over coffee. There is a common saying that the Quebecois nobility, whether old or new, all knew each other to some degree, and he knew that. The Heos, the Ahns and the Lauzons were three of the most historic houses in the Western half of Acadie, and at various points they came opposed to one another in the House of Lords. So perhaps there was no surprise that Dong-Soo knew whom to contact when it was time for him to decide on where to do his doctorate, and life has taken a long circle since then.

'Yes, sir. If anything, he did enjoy his cigarettes and the Bleu et Blanc sports, like every true adopted Capitolien would have. He was a provincial who truly loved Quebec City.' He nodded, his left hand slowly shaking on its own. As far as he's concerned, he was finding this conversation dreary, though the trip down the memory lane was nonetheless fun. He added, ‘Still, we all mourn for his untimely death and how the man who knew what it meant to be a true Capitolien with his promethean had passed into the earth.’

‘Well, you are absolutely right, but everything comes at a cost.’ Gavin de Ramaut responded, feeling misty on his eyes and chilly on his forehead. ‘Like you know, the Acadianan in him had meant that there was an eternal pit of fire in his soul and the edges that couldn’t be straightened….

‘Don’t get me wrong, Dong-Soo. Sometimes he could control the flames, and that’s usually the better version of him. When you had him as your supervisor, you had a much calmer, more lucid version of the man. That’s when he’s at the most ideal state, so I’d put forth. But the younger self of his, that’s another thing! You’ve been there before, if anything!’

‘Now, that’s why we need to travel to the times when he wasn’t, and was very much that creature of habit as I told you earlier. I guess this must have been the Year 1987, because Dr. Kim himself was still a Masters student. He was the usual self at Mount Ester, but only for lord knows how short the time flew on the first year there. There was another Acadianan whom he had eyed dearly, dating back to the times when academic exchanges weren’t so readily available, and she did have him realise the best and the worst, so to call.’

‘Sounds like the usual love story,’ said Dr. Heo, trying not to make much out of it. He knew the other Acadianan was a certain Prof. Pineau, his second wife. From what he had remembered, she was somewhere in the pub, but was hard to find - the lady, in her 50s, was probably too busy talking to other mourners, most likely the youths of the 80s.

‘But then thing with Dr. Kim was that he always needs...someone to calm his fuses down. Else he ends up burning down the whole house or just vow to destroy every person he opposes. So that Agnes-Leanne happened to be one, and if she only chatted at him, he used to weave stories of fire to those around him. I remember a young Magnus Challice-Yeo mentioning that, and couldn’t help but to wonder as well.

‘But she of course was taken, to the man back home, and she flew often, back and forth between Bathurst and her home. Often Dr. Kim had asked her to bring back gifts, and so did she. But he was a calculating man, and promised himself one day that if the luck binds, he’s going to find a way for divine miracle to work out. And then, one day, when he was entering the line for his professor and her mentor’s office hour (was it Dr. Belsen, I don’t remember) one January….he found her crying. She broke up with her ex-boyfriend because of distance over christmas, and needless to say that he was down over it as well.’

When he slowly slurred down, Dr. Heo added a line to lift up the mood. ‘But it, too, was an opportunity for him. I know that feeling, if anything- while injuries forced my retirement from fencing, it brought me Maureen out of blue.’

‘Certainly, boy. But that’s not how it exactly worked. Dr. Kim, perhaps the most demonstrative of positivist thinkers that half this nation’s historians are subscribed to the list, also believed that he had time until they reached Concord Heights. Him coming from Nyhavn, her Yzerberg. The intimate moment in middle of a Dagan capital, and all that...he thought it out thoroughly.

‘But the thought of a rendez-vous, so promising yet so deceiving, can be dangerous if you only think of the plans. As the term passed, he began looking more dead than alive like a bewitched huntsman, and his skin started to become as dry as a chip of wood. And then that’s when the worst struck, as he did not think of the otherwise.’

‘And what would that be? Would that be the famous Arnold-Jeong Rule that he used to mention on sidenote?’ Dr. Heo asked, feeling melancholy over the mention of a casual rule, where you always assume someone of romantic interest’s taken unless proven otherwise, that Dr. Kim was created when he was a teenager. That rule, which he used to use fairly often on the dining hall conversations with undergraduate students he monitored at Agrippa-le-Grand College and also home, was a famous term for those who read history or Russian at St. Croix.

‘No! No! No! No. I meant....The Plague.’

by **Graintfjall** » Thu Nov 12, 2020 5:09 am

Cutoff for the QFs.

Quarterfinals
Banija 77–77 Kriegiersien (127–126 OT)
Newmanistan 88–55 TJUN-ia
Drawkland 74–74 Sarzonia (82–84 OT)
Valanora 52–90 Royal Kingdom of Quebec

M: Banija v Royal Kingdom of Quebec @ Grand National Arena, Háttmark
N: Newmanistan v Sarzonia @ Arena of November 21st, Háttmark

O: Loser M v Loser N @ Grander International Arena, Háttmark
P: Winner M v Winner N @ Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark

by **Sarzonia** » Thu Nov 12, 2020 7:14 am

One of Sarzonian national basketball team coach Thomas Manningham's mantras in life is that it isn't adversity that matters; it's how you respond to it that counts.

After getting crushed in the group stage finale by Royal Kingdom of Quebec to be relegated to Green Group runners up in front of a disappointed crowd at The Palestra in Woodstock, the Stars became the only lower seed to win a Round of 16 match by defeating Lisander in overtime.

They did it again against one of the modern blue bloods in the sport, shocking the basketball multiverse and sending third seeded Drawkland home after yet another overtime victory, winning 84-82.

Drawkland fouled Stars centre Terry Rutledge with Sarzonia trailing 74-72 and four tenths of a second remaining in regulation, hoping the burly centre with a career 68 percent free throw shooting percentage would succumb to the pressure. Before Rutledge could take his first shot, Net Corps coach Cody Morgan called his team's final timeout, likely intending to ice Rutledge and make him think about the enormity of his task.

After the timeout, Rutledge took a deep breath before the official handed him the ball, then dribbled six times before he launched the ball. Swish. Now the Stars were only down one. He high-fived a couple of teammates, then drew in his breath and exhaled after the referee again handed him the rock. He dribbled six times, then fired. Swish. The match was level, and after a desperation heave by Autumn Callen fell way short, the Stars and the Net Corps were headed to overtime.

From there, it was the Mike West show as he scored six of his team high 26 points in the extra session. He hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key that gave the Stars a two-point lead and then Rutledge harassed Callen to force the abnormally tall guard to fire a terrible shot in an effort to wrest victory back for the Net Corps.

Following the match, Manningham had some choice words for Morgan and stadium security had to separate them. The tension at the post match handshake line was also palpable as the two teams looked for all the worlds like they weren't just random opponents, but bitter rivals.

"We didn't like the comments they made about us in their media," Manningham said. "Everything from using the wrong demonym for Delaclava [Delaclavs] to their arrogant projection that they would advance to the semifinals." Morgan "said 'hey, I don't control the media' and I wanted to deck him."

"I didn't like the suggestion that we might be cannon fodder in the semifinals," West said. He decided not to participate in the handshake line, adding, "what was I going to say to them?"

The Stars will play their semifinals match and it will be a matchup that recalls many epic battles from the early days of the International Basketball Championships itself: Newmanistan. The Rockets stopped sending teams to the IBC around the time of Sarzonia's own Long Isolation but returned and became a modern power.

This match marks the first meeting between the Stars and the Rockets since the two teams battled it out for IBC supremacy, but Manningham dismissed the hype.

"Chris Draden and Henry West aren't walking through that door," he said. "We're a vastly different team and so are they."

by **TJUN-ia** » Thu Nov 12, 2020 8:28 am

Final: Newmanistan (1) 88-55 TJUN-ia (=15)

Yep, that was that. The Rockets torched the Jags, as expected, and finally, the opening act of the Zhou Dynasty closes with curtain fall. But what journey it was, one seemed unlikely to some after going 3-2 in the first 5 games. But Bao Zhou rallied his men to go undefeated in the final 5, including big wins over both teams that beat them in the first 5: Trolleborg and Valanora. Making our first playoffs was an achievement within itself but to then beat Omerica to share the court with the defending champions was truly something else.

All in all, IBC 30 will be considered a success by the BFT and by many fans back in TJUN-ia. But now the aim is simple: keep up the good work. The BFT knows it doesn't want to fall into the same trap the GFA has in that it's become good, but not good enough to break into the elite. Maybe, like the GFA, the collegiate game may hold the keys to power in this sport...GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Violet Group - All Games @North Wolf Bay Park, Hofvinger)
MD1: @Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 79-78 (3rd)
MD2: vs Trolleborg (=15) L 66-74 (4th)
MD3: @West Phoenicia (UR) W 81-74 (3rd)
MD4: @Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 98-65 (3rd)
MD5: vs Valanora (5) L 69-73 (3rd/3-2/+29PD)
--------------------Break--------------------
MD6: vs Greater Kamilistan (UR) W 84-64 (3rd)
MD7: @Trolleborg (=15) W 78-64 (2nd)
MD8: vs West Phoenicia (UR) W 77-53 (2nd)
MD9: vs Zeta Reka and Hugeltaldom (UR) W 87-73 (2nd/OFFICIALLY QUALIFIED)
MD10: @Valanora (5) W 83-73 (2nd/8-2/+111PD)
---------------Super Skill Contest---------------
Ro16: vs Omerica (UR) @BQZ 9-Bank Arena, Háttmark W 81-77 (2nd)
QF: vs Newmanistan (1) @WhaleWhileUGo Arena, Háttmark L 55-88

by **Banija** » Thu Nov 12, 2020 2:46 pm

Banija survives four overtime thriller against Kriegiersien as pundits wonder if they have anything left against Quebec

A Banijan player celebrates as the buzzer sounds at the end of the fourth overtime

Háttmark, GRAENTJFALL- Banija walked into this game as 6.5 point favorites. Coach Lavaga said that the gap between the two sides was much closer than that, almost nil. Many Banijan pundits were saying that this was a game that could come down to the final possesion. We were one of those pundits. But boy, nobody was ready for the type of battle that these two teams had. This is going to go down as an all-time matchup- one for the ages. Both teams put it all on the floor, and refused to lose. Will the winning side have anything left, emotionally or physically, for the semifinal against the Royal Kingdom of Quebec in a few days? We'll talk about our Commonwealth rivals when that moment comes. But this one- game of the tournament so far? A game that will certainly be remembered by viewers for many years to come.

Let's get right to it then. What was Banija's early strategy- try to put their opponents in the hole quickly, and let the pressure, the stage, and the lights, alongside Banijan pressing, get inside their opponent's heads early. It was a failure of a strategy. Of course, it's a strategy you can quickly adjust away from, but it was not going to work. But here's the big problem that happened in the first half- Labanzi Nabongo picked up two fouls in the first four minutes, and Lavaga sat him for the rest of the half. Kriegiersien was always going to try and take advantage in the frontcourt.

And that they did. Without Nabongo to occupy Bugezog on the opposite end, Bugezog had a dominant game on the offensive end. Getting board after board, Bugezog had 12 rebounds by the half- 4 of them being offensive. He was there for the putbacks, as neither team had much space to operate on offense. And with Nabongo off the court, the pressure was put on Banija's best offensive players, particularly Akabueze and Ezekiel Bullo, to make up for him. But Akabueze was shut down entirely in the first half. Had 1 assist, was 0/6 from the field(although 2/2 from the free throw line), and 2 turnovers. Ivory Fire was sticking to him like glue. She played with so much energy, and so much fire, that he barely had space to operate. When she got a steal that she was able to take back for a dunk, the Kriegiersien fans in the building went wild.

This put the Banijans into a precarious position. We've won every one of our first 11 games at this tournament by double digits. Frequently putting opponents away with enough time to get rest for our starters in the fourth quarter, with an eye towards playing extra minutes in games like these. And it's a good thing we did- the halftime score, showing us trailing 42-32, showed Lavaga that this would be the moment where he'd need to shorten his rotation, likely for the rest of the tournament. Would they have the legs to do so? Kriegiersien has had massive blowout victories in their last two games, giving their starters plenty of opportunity to get fresh as well.

But this Banijan squad, especially during this tournament, was not used to having to comeback. But they would. Slowly, but surely. Making a stop here. Closing out better on opposing shooters. They clawed their way back into the game, and with just 5 minutes left in the fourth quarter, we made it a one point game, down 72-71. Our last substitution of the second half was with 8 minutes left in the fourth quarter, when Sadio Bartaba came back into the game for Oluwasegun Tionge. It showed there, Lavaga would ride his best 5 the rest of the way. At this point, of course, the defense of both teams was so tight, the intensity on both ends of the floor so high, you'd have to run an offensive set almost perfectly to try and get an open shot in the halfcourt.

The Banijans were able to do that, fortunately. A Saihou Uster corner 3 made it 74-72 in favor of Banija, our first lead since the first quarter. Uster had been struggling all day, going 0/8 from distance before that shot. But Kriegiersien came right back, and made the game 74-74. And then, on their next possesion, they got a lay-in plus a foul, and hit the free throw. So 77-74 with 3:30 remaining. Both teams traded defensive stops for 2.5 minutes, before Ezekiel Bullo ended the general scoring drought by blowing by a defender and throwing down a dunk on Kriegiersien's center. 77-76. Kriegiersien turned the ball over on the ensuing possesion, and Bartaba got a shot at the rim. The center was fouled. He hit the first free throw, and missed the second. Kriegiersien got the rebound. On regulation's final possesion, they dribbled the clock all the way down, and Pascal Donat had a contested fadeaway jumper to win the game. Uster got a hand on the ball, however, making it fall way short, technically getting a block, and forcing overtime.

The intensity levels of this game were dialed way up to an 11. The defense was skin to jersey. It was so fierce in the first overtime set, that the scoring was almost non-existent. Each team scored twice from the field. An Akabueze layup and a Nabongo three for the Banijans, while Latoya Moyses had a layup and a three pointer. Just 5 points for each team in the first overtime, neither scoring in the final 3 minutes of the 5 minute period. And then, came the second overtime. But with the second overtime came something else- weariness. Tired legs started to hit both teams. Both were well-rested, of course, going into this one, but this game was clearly taking a toll on its participants. And so, with the game tied at 82 points a piece, the energy levels fell on the defensive end first. Once again, neither team made any subsitutions in this period. But the offense exploded. The complete opposite of the first overtime, where nobody could score. Here, everybody was getting to the rim at will. Both teams scored 14 points in the period, and in this overtime's final play, it would be Banija who'd have a chance to win, as in a 96-96 game, Nabongo had a fadeaway opportunity from about 15 feet. He couldn't get a clean look, however, barely hitting the front of the rim and the teams looking at a third time.

Everybody had weary legs at this point. And players were in foul trouble. Nabongo had four fouls. Uster had 3. AKabueze had 4. Bartaba had 4. Bullo, somehow, only had one. Both coaches, once again, refusing to make a sub, staring each other down in this chess match, as it was a win-or-go-home quarterfinal. But in this period, players were able to get their legs behind the ball, and finally start hitting threes. Up on the final possession of the period, the Lions thought they had a chance to win it. Winning 117-114 with 8 seconds left, Kriegiersien had to travel the length of the court. Their point guard raced down the floor, and threw an overhead pass, a risky pass to the corner. But Johnathon Val, who participated in the three point contest, caught the ball in the corner with three seconds left. Nobody on him. Bullo desperately flying out to the corner to try and get something of a contest, but Val has ice in his veins. The ball went up and in, and he stared Bullo down as he forced the game's fourth overtime.

At this point, it was clear that nobody had legs. But once again, neither coach would make a move. Too much of a risk in too tense of a moment. But Lavaga would be forced to reach to his bench. Bartaba got his fifth foul in the first possesion of the overtime- he was gone. The first subsitute for Banija since the 8:00 mark in the 4th quarter, Antouman Ceesay came into the game. And it turned out well. He was energetic, chasing down loose balls against a tired Kriegiersien side. Kriegiersien's coach countered with finally making a subsittution, however, and was able to match Banija. Another player for Banija fouled out with about 1:15 left in the game when Saihou Uster committed his fourth personal foul on a tight call at the rim. His reaction- the veteran captain letting the tension get to him, screaming at the referee, saw him tossed for the technical. The IBO, thankfully, only issued him a fine for the incident, rather than a suspension.

Ebrahima Faye came into the game. Three players on the floor, 23 or younger, for Banija. And with 15 seconds left, when the Lions trailed, 126-124, it would be Faye that would rescue them. Running sideways across the baseline when Akabueze had the ball at the top of the key, he ran past a couple of screens set for him and got the ball with the defender hot on his back. Faye stepped back as Akabueze went to set a screen for him. Instead of taking the screen to his left, he faked left, stepped right to get a little bit of space, and bombed one. Is that the shot you want? Probably not. But sometimes, this game simply comes down to making one more play. And with 7 seconds left, the ball swished into the net. Kriegiersien would use their final tiemout of the period.

127-126 Banija. In the fourth overtime. Two starters already fouled out. Lavaga ran out with Akabueze at the 1, then Faye, then Bullo, then Ceesay at the 4, and the 7'4 Oluwasegun Tionge playing in the rim protector role at the 5. Anakoni Corbinian got the ball at halfcourt, tightly guarded by Ezekiel Bullo. He tried to bulldoze towards the rim, and then saw a cutting Ivory Fire. He zipped a pass to her, and she caught it, having half a step on Akabueze. About six feet away from the rim with the clock ticking down, she went to put up a floater. Tionge, however, having the awareness, closed on her. It's tough to get the ball over his 7'4 frame, and he rejected the basketball. The ball went to Faye, who simply threw it down the floor to see the remaining seconds tick off and have the buzzer sound. Banija won!

The team was exhausted and drained. But they were happy. Players hugged each other. Akabueze hit the ground. We spoke to the hero who hit the go-ahead three pointer, Ebrahima Faye. "You know, I just like that spot on the right side of the floor." He told us. "I'm just glad coach Lavaga had the faith in me to put the ball in my hands at the end of the game, and I'm so happy I was able to deliver." At this point, he got pied in the face by Janko Jawo, like he had hit a walkoff home run. We spoke to the man who made the game winning block, Tionge.

"Well, in our film study we've seen them run that play before." He told us. "I recognized her get a step, and the ball was whipped in there. I just tried to get as high as I could and get a hand on the shot, and fortunately, I was able to." And after that, of course, we got the coach's thoughts.

"One hell of a basketball team, one hell of a team." Coach Lavaga began. "See, I told you everybody that this would be a heavyweight fight, and it was. Four overtimes! I've been with this team since IBC 24, either as an assistant or as a head coach, and I have never had a game like this one. Full credit to Kriegiersien. We said they were a title contender, and this game came down to the final point. Of course, this tournament is not over. We are happy today. And tomorrow, this team will need ice baths- we played 60 minutes of physical, high intensity basketball- people's bodies may be drained."

We asked the coach if the team would have anything left to give after this draining match. "This is the damn IBCs!" He exclaimed. "It's the semifinals. Everybody's tired, everybody's banged up a little." When we pointed out that Quebec won handily by 38, while Banija had won by one after four overtimes, he dismissed those concerns. "Look, it's simple- we're going to have to dig deep. We will need to do some heavier recovery exercises. This tournament isn't over. Banija v. Quebec is a big rivalry game for us, and that alone should be enough for us to focus up. That'll be a fun, tight, heavyweight bout as well. Two Atlantian Oceania contenders, for a spot in the Final. What more could you wish for?"

This is Banija's third semifinal appearance in the last four IBCs, and fourth in the last 7. Banija will be looking to return to the title game for the second straight tournament, while Quebec will be looking for their first appearance since IBC 25. As always, go Lions!

by **The Royal Kingdom of Quebec** » Fri Nov 13, 2020 2:26 am

Running Up That Hill

PART 9 (1/3) (37 and 1/3) - Island Lights

'Mon dieu. Not the plague.' Asher said in response. lifted his eyeballs, as he slowly sipped a glass of gin, trying not to think too much about how he foresaw the fate's threads moving back and forth. 'The tragedy, and the lives lost.'

Here he was, slowly unnerving himself about the stories that weren't even related one bit to the authoritarian regime. Asher quickly turned around to make sure that nobody else was hearing their conversation - the Sicoutian state guards or intelligence agents whom would normally be with them, weren't around in an establishment set up by a former veteran of the Revolution, thankfully - in middle of this underground club. All he could hear were murmurs, hidden through the echoes that blew away all those others were talking about,, and Asher looked back at his angel again.

'I know right? It's quite tragic.' Eileen de Ramaut nodded as she looked at him, not trying to give off particularly secretive vibes to the situation. Of course there were enough for strangers to suggest that they weren't locals, especially with how the chromatic colours did not really match the 1920s ambience the rest of the club gave. 'And that's how he went away. Since he wasn't allowed to go home, while she did go back to Acadiane, they couldn't see each other for some time.' She responded, her voice trying its best to hold on.

'So they were on the opposing sides of Atlantian Oceania, and he did not get to see her for long time, is what you're saying.' Asher continued, feeling frustrated at how the tradition of romantic indecisiveness in Quebecois people seemed to transmit well above and beyond. Of course, that's not what anyone had imagined in terms of doses of imperialism, however guilty we should feel. He blurted out a thought to his mental archives. 'So what happened to them?'

'Well, he prepared and prepared and prepared for the moment, when all the Plague was going to be over,' Eileen noted, before slowly sipping a bottle of beer as a matter of guilty pleasure. 'But then he soon found out that she's of course, back with her beau and bae in Acadiana, all because of the opportunity that the Plague itself had brought upon the poor postgraduate children of February 1988. She accidentally went back while he, the prepared one, was still here, and you could guess the rest.'

'That's horrible!' he shouted, his mouth narrowly open to create a channel of its own.

‘I know right?’ she remarked, trying to keep her emotions in check. ‘And he eventually found out, on a November night, and that was even worse of a sight.’

'What could it have been?' Asher was feeling bewildered, having realised that this was going to the realm of fantasies. Of course, the nation was slowly filling up with the positive news, that of a possible return to international sporting stage, but most were staying quiet until Chairman Alphonse Pomeroy, their 'eternal leader' (eternal leader my ass, Asher thought to himself upon that quotation mark) would make a statemet on it. But that possibility of old sporting magic returning had meant little like a chance of purple and blue sprinkling again in the dreary streets of Lac-Drouin, and Asher couldn't help but to sigh before asking again. 'There's no way that he would have been able to bring anything like a de-'

‘-...and apparently that’s what happened on that May evening! It is said that Professor Woland, Koroviev, Behemoth, Azaello and Hella, went out into the city and brought themselves a feast, a magic show, and many flickering of lights during their week on the campus and le Quartier Calanien.

‘Nobody could figure out what it was, but it wasn’t normal. The late professor, still a student then, of course knew why he did it though. And it was to burn the city down.’

Asher looked at her, whose eyes were now filling up with fire, and then back at the waiter to suggest drinks with the special Audioslavian art of the ancient semaphore of eyebrow-waggling and head-nodding, and went back.

‘But did it do it? Quebec brûle-t-il?’

‘Non.’

by **Graintfjall** » Fri Nov 13, 2020 5:01 am

The IBC30 organisers announced a “Team of the Tournament” today, based on a poll conducted by readers of The Háttmark Harbinger’s website.

Guards:

Mike West (Sarzonia), Autumn Trallen (Drawkland)

Forwards:

Labanzi Nabongo (Banija), DeMarcus Winston (TJUN-ia)

Center:

Bugezog (Kriegiersien)

Of course, the only awards that really matter are winners’ medals, and two teams took a step closer to earning those today, while two teams will have to settle for a fight for third place. Let’s find out, as we post the penultimate cutoff…

Banija 103–61 Royal Kingdom of Quebec
Newmanistan 90–78 Sarzonia

3PPO: Sarzonia v Royal Kingdom of Quebec @ Grander International Arena, Háttmark

Final: Banija v Newmanistan @ Royal & Imperial Recreation Club Arena, Háttmark

IBC30 [rosters/RPs/results]

DROP IT DOWN!: Jags Halt 9-0 Dragons In Final Battle!

The Three Point Contest

DROP IT DOWN!: We Love To Make Omerica Cry!

IBC 30: Quarterfinals Await

DROP IT DOWN!: Rockets Are Legit. Water Is Wet.

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