Another season of rec ball in the books and as usual it did not disappoint. We saw multiple buzzer beaters, a full court prayer, one of the biggest letdowns in rec playoff history, the rise of a future stars and the end of past. As usual we saw passion mixed with sportsmanship and all but 10 dreams crushed. With the HS Varsity team losing 10 seniors much of this year's top rec talent will be playing on the big court next season opening the floor for some young bloods.
I've had a lot of fun on the rec courts these past 4 years and had even more fun running this blog this season. I hope everyone has had as much fun as me and continue to uphold the rec standards. I hope you all have enjoyed my work on this blog but if not then I have good news for you, this is it for me.
Congrats on the ring Team Ordemann! And remember, who needs varsity??
Monday, March 13, 2017
Finals MVP
This Finals MVP is Nick Poitras. Nick played excellent defense on the regular season MVP runner up Dean Tornaritis and he managed to put up 17 points on the offensive end. He was a solid team leader for Team Ordemann all season and he continued to be throughout the playoffs.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
REC BALL 2k17 FINALS
Ordemann 48 over Tornaritis 33
In a blowout no one saw coming, Team Ordemann took down the Tornaritis dynasty for the final time. Jake Gavel and Nick Poitras carried the load and with the supporting crew, Team Ordemann proved too much for Deano and company. The team defense of Team Ordemann held Team Tornaritis to an impressive 33 points although to be fair Team Tornaritis missed a lot of layups. Dean tried his best to keep the dream alive but the 3-game wasn't working for him and that proved costly. Team Ordemann was one of the most well rounded teams in the league and by winning this championship over the most top heavy teams in the league goes to show you that depth matters. Its a team sport and the best team, not player or players, in the league took home the hardware this season.
In a blowout no one saw coming, Team Ordemann took down the Tornaritis dynasty for the final time. Jake Gavel and Nick Poitras carried the load and with the supporting crew, Team Ordemann proved too much for Deano and company. The team defense of Team Ordemann held Team Tornaritis to an impressive 33 points although to be fair Team Tornaritis missed a lot of layups. Dean tried his best to keep the dream alive but the 3-game wasn't working for him and that proved costly. Team Ordemann was one of the most well rounded teams in the league and by winning this championship over the most top heavy teams in the league goes to show you that depth matters. Its a team sport and the best team, not player or players, in the league took home the hardware this season.
Baller of the Semi's
Sorry this is late, but Dean Tornaritis wins baller of the semi finals. He had another great game and has led his 8th seeded team all the way to the finals. There has been some controversy over the amount minutes Dean has played over the past few weeks but even with this you can't deny that what he is doing out on the floor.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
FINALS PREDICTION
Tornaritis 49 vs Ordemann 45
We think this is going to be a great championship game but when the dust settles we believe Dean and Team Tornaritis will be champions one more time. The Tornaritis franchise is not new to this type of pressure and with the talent that Dean and Justin bring to the table we think this will be enough. Team Ordemann also has some championship game experience. Jake Gavel lost in the finals last year as a part of Team Gavel and will not want to repeat the performance he gave in that game.
We believe this game will come down to boards. If Team Ordemann can keep Justin off the offensive glass and hit the boards themselves then they might have a chance to win the Cup, but if they let Justin grab the few misses Dean has, then they will certainly struggle to keep up with the amount of points Team Tornaritis can put up.
We think this is going to be a great championship game but when the dust settles we believe Dean and Team Tornaritis will be champions one more time. The Tornaritis franchise is not new to this type of pressure and with the talent that Dean and Justin bring to the table we think this will be enough. Team Ordemann also has some championship game experience. Jake Gavel lost in the finals last year as a part of Team Gavel and will not want to repeat the performance he gave in that game.
We believe this game will come down to boards. If Team Ordemann can keep Justin off the offensive glass and hit the boards themselves then they might have a chance to win the Cup, but if they let Justin grab the few misses Dean has, then they will certainly struggle to keep up with the amount of points Team Tornaritis can put up.
Semi- Finals Results
Tornaritis 45 over McNamara 40
This was a hard fought match but Dean was able to take the reigns of the game late and pull out the win. Team McNamara struggled from beyond the arc which was their main source of offensive production this season. Brian Scott did his best to keep them in it but he did not have enough support around him to get the win. Justin Flanagan had one of his best games of the season but still struggle to finish at the rim. In fact former varsity teammate Gavin Keough was seen shaking his head in disgrace after Flanagan missed a wide open transition layup. If Justin can figure it out for the last game of the season than we might as well call the finals now.
Ordemann 44 over Forbes 41
This was a back and forth, tight game throughout but in the end Team Ordemann was able to get to the free throw with the lead and close the deal. League MVP Will Manzi did not have a great game and his turnovers proved costly. Nate Forbes tried to pick up the slack and he kept Team Forbes in it but in the end he wasn't enough. Pat O'Reilly for Team Ordemann put his team over the top with his excellent post play. He will have to keep up this caliber of play if he wants to help Team Ordemann bring home the hardware.
This was a hard fought match but Dean was able to take the reigns of the game late and pull out the win. Team McNamara struggled from beyond the arc which was their main source of offensive production this season. Brian Scott did his best to keep them in it but he did not have enough support around him to get the win. Justin Flanagan had one of his best games of the season but still struggle to finish at the rim. In fact former varsity teammate Gavin Keough was seen shaking his head in disgrace after Flanagan missed a wide open transition layup. If Justin can figure it out for the last game of the season than we might as well call the finals now.
Ordemann 44 over Forbes 41
This was a back and forth, tight game throughout but in the end Team Ordemann was able to get to the free throw with the lead and close the deal. League MVP Will Manzi did not have a great game and his turnovers proved costly. Nate Forbes tried to pick up the slack and he kept Team Forbes in it but in the end he wasn't enough. Pat O'Reilly for Team Ordemann put his team over the top with his excellent post play. He will have to keep up this caliber of play if he wants to help Team Ordemann bring home the hardware.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Semi- Finals Predictions
Tornaritis 52 vs McNamara 45
McNamara has scrapped it's way into the semi finals but we believe the buck stops here. We don't see any favorable match for Team McNamara. Justin is too big for most of Team McNamara and he is more athletic than those who match his size. And Dean is just unstoppable no matter who you are. The only way we see McNamara stealing another one is if Brian Scott and Justin Kavalowskas drop 25 each. If they don't combine for around 50 then we can't see how Team McNamara gets enough points to match Dean. Jack Erickson may be able to provide some offensive relief but as long as Team Tornaritis covers his three ball he is practically useless.
Forbes 52 vs Ordemann 50
On paper Team Ordemann looks to be the superior team but last week they looked horrible and Team Forbes managed to hold onto a win despite having only 4 players on the floor. Manzi will be a handful for even senior leader Nick Poitras. And Forbes may be able to bully his way into the post depending on how aggressive Jake Gavel can be. We think this game will come down to the three point line. If Team Ordemann can keep up with Manzi (Team Forbes only real threat) from beyond the arc then they will have a good chance to advance to the finals. But if not, Manzi and Forbes should be able to lead their team to victory.
McNamara has scrapped it's way into the semi finals but we believe the buck stops here. We don't see any favorable match for Team McNamara. Justin is too big for most of Team McNamara and he is more athletic than those who match his size. And Dean is just unstoppable no matter who you are. The only way we see McNamara stealing another one is if Brian Scott and Justin Kavalowskas drop 25 each. If they don't combine for around 50 then we can't see how Team McNamara gets enough points to match Dean. Jack Erickson may be able to provide some offensive relief but as long as Team Tornaritis covers his three ball he is practically useless.
Forbes 52 vs Ordemann 50
On paper Team Ordemann looks to be the superior team but last week they looked horrible and Team Forbes managed to hold onto a win despite having only 4 players on the floor. Manzi will be a handful for even senior leader Nick Poitras. And Forbes may be able to bully his way into the post depending on how aggressive Jake Gavel can be. We think this game will come down to the three point line. If Team Ordemann can keep up with Manzi (Team Forbes only real threat) from beyond the arc then they will have a good chance to advance to the finals. But if not, Manzi and Forbes should be able to lead their team to victory.
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Rec Ball Times
Obituaries
Team Coveno
-This Team was the disappointment of the league. Their roster was set up for success but they could not figure out how to manufacture points. Their defense was the second best in the league which kept them in games but they could not hit enough shots to make a playoff run. May we pay our respects to the seniors on the team. As their rec careers come to a close let us pay our respects to what they brought to the game. Adam Scott for his vicious swats. Zack Gavel for his money shots. Liam Brown for his hustle and heart. Aidan Huff for his inability to dribble without carrying. And Zach Coveno for his coaching and his charge drawing ability.
Team Estes
-This Team was the biggest favorite in the league. They had shooters all over the court and atheletes throughout. They were known for their massive blowouts and deadly range. Without any seniors on the roster they all will have a chance to bring home some rec hardware next season, but for most of them this was probably their best shot.
Team Dawson
-This was the scrappiest team in the league. They didn't have a lot of superstars but they did what they needed to do to get wins. Coach Dawson is as sharp as they come and always gave her team the best chance at winning. May we pay our respects to the senior in the team, Mark Maloomian. As his rec career comes to a close let us remember him for his cellies, even on layups.
Team Booth
-This Team was the most underrated team all year. They fought hard, played as a team and got all the 50/50 balls. May we pay our respects to the seniors on the team; Jacob Hickman and Jack O'Neal. As their rec career come to a close let us remember them for their crazy finishes around the net (Hickman) and the intensity brought to every game (O'Neal).
Team Coveno
-This Team was the disappointment of the league. Their roster was set up for success but they could not figure out how to manufacture points. Their defense was the second best in the league which kept them in games but they could not hit enough shots to make a playoff run. May we pay our respects to the seniors on the team. As their rec careers come to a close let us pay our respects to what they brought to the game. Adam Scott for his vicious swats. Zack Gavel for his money shots. Liam Brown for his hustle and heart. Aidan Huff for his inability to dribble without carrying. And Zach Coveno for his coaching and his charge drawing ability.
Team Estes
-This Team was the biggest favorite in the league. They had shooters all over the court and atheletes throughout. They were known for their massive blowouts and deadly range. Without any seniors on the roster they all will have a chance to bring home some rec hardware next season, but for most of them this was probably their best shot.
Team Dawson
-This was the scrappiest team in the league. They didn't have a lot of superstars but they did what they needed to do to get wins. Coach Dawson is as sharp as they come and always gave her team the best chance at winning. May we pay our respects to the senior in the team, Mark Maloomian. As his rec career comes to a close let us remember him for his cellies, even on layups.
Team Booth
-This Team was the most underrated team all year. They fought hard, played as a team and got all the 50/50 balls. May we pay our respects to the seniors on the team; Jacob Hickman and Jack O'Neal. As their rec career come to a close let us remember them for their crazy finishes around the net (Hickman) and the intensity brought to every game (O'Neal).
Baller of Round 2
Dean Tornaritis wins Baller of the round once again. Dean put up 27 in his big win over Team Estes. Although we didn't get to see the game, knowing Dean he most likely handled the game on both ends of the court. He is making a strong case for playoff MVP but he still has two games to go before we can't guarantee anything.
Playoff Results- Round 2
McNamara 40 over Coveno 32
Team Coveno played good defense again but their offense well short on them again. Both Scott brothers fought back and forth and had good games but the range of Brian out lasted the drive of Adam. Team McNamara is putting together quite the cinderella story here. As the 12th seed, they have now reached the semis but they're up against Team Tornaritis next week and it will certainly be tough to continue the run.
Tornaritis 48 over Estes 37
DOWN GOES GOLIATH! Team Tornaritis has taken down the 1 seed in a major upset! After the game, players on Team Estes complained about the refereeing, but in this game they might have a case. Team Estes had 23 fouls to Team Tornaritis' 12 (or 8 depending on the source). Despite this, it's still on Team Estes to get the W. Just ask Team Forbes how it's done.
Ordemann 27 over Booth 22
In one of the ugliest games in rec ball history, Team Ordemann escaped Hickman and company. Team Booth missed too many shots late to hold onto the win. Team Ordemann will have to play better than this if they hope to beat Team Forbes on friday night.
Forbes 56 over Dawson 54
This game had one crazy finish. Nate Forbes and Will Manzi both fouled out with 4 minutes to go and a 7 point lead. And then Jake Scharn fouled out with about 2 minutes left. This left Team Forbes with 4 players on the court against Team Dawson's 5. But despite this obvious advantage, Team Dawson could not figure it out late and Team Forbes pulled out the W. Nick Perry played his roll getting a late technical foul for slamming the ball down after getting disagreeing with a foul call. This led to free throws and a 4 point lead for Team Forbes. AND THEN Cam Battles hit a late "and one" lay up giving Team Dawson life. Battles preceded to miss the rim in his attempt for a put back and Team Forbes was able to run out the clock on the following inbound play. Team Forbes will need to watch the foul trouble on Friday night because Team Ordemann will not hesitate to step on their throats given the opportunity.
Team Coveno played good defense again but their offense well short on them again. Both Scott brothers fought back and forth and had good games but the range of Brian out lasted the drive of Adam. Team McNamara is putting together quite the cinderella story here. As the 12th seed, they have now reached the semis but they're up against Team Tornaritis next week and it will certainly be tough to continue the run.
Tornaritis 48 over Estes 37
DOWN GOES GOLIATH! Team Tornaritis has taken down the 1 seed in a major upset! After the game, players on Team Estes complained about the refereeing, but in this game they might have a case. Team Estes had 23 fouls to Team Tornaritis' 12 (or 8 depending on the source). Despite this, it's still on Team Estes to get the W. Just ask Team Forbes how it's done.
Ordemann 27 over Booth 22
In one of the ugliest games in rec ball history, Team Ordemann escaped Hickman and company. Team Booth missed too many shots late to hold onto the win. Team Ordemann will have to play better than this if they hope to beat Team Forbes on friday night.
Forbes 56 over Dawson 54
This game had one crazy finish. Nate Forbes and Will Manzi both fouled out with 4 minutes to go and a 7 point lead. And then Jake Scharn fouled out with about 2 minutes left. This left Team Forbes with 4 players on the court against Team Dawson's 5. But despite this obvious advantage, Team Dawson could not figure it out late and Team Forbes pulled out the W. Nick Perry played his roll getting a late technical foul for slamming the ball down after getting disagreeing with a foul call. This led to free throws and a 4 point lead for Team Forbes. AND THEN Cam Battles hit a late "and one" lay up giving Team Dawson life. Battles preceded to miss the rim in his attempt for a put back and Team Forbes was able to run out the clock on the following inbound play. Team Forbes will need to watch the foul trouble on Friday night because Team Ordemann will not hesitate to step on their throats given the opportunity.
Baller of Round 1
Sorry this is late but Dean Tornaritis is the Baller of round 1. He carried his team to a win in a hard fought game. With his play they can beat anyone. Maybe he's a little upset for being snubbed as the leagues MVP.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Rec Ball Times
Obituaries
Team Gingras
-This was one of those teams that just couldn't get the season to work. They had the pieces in place to be a good team but struggled to get wins. They had bigs in the Battles Boys, hustle in the Townsend Boys and skill in Connor Keegan. Rerun this season 10 times and we'd wager 7 of them come out with a better record and finish than this one did. May we pay respects to the senior of this team Mitch Townsend. As his rec career comes to a close let's remember him as the floor general we all loved. RIP Mitch Townsend.
Team Hecht
-This was one of the hardest working team's in rec history. They scrapped there way out of the 12th seed despite starting the season insanely slow. They fought on the boards and hustled on defense. They simply didn't have enough raw talent to get the wins this season. May we pay respect to the seniors of this team: Justin Griffin, David Heffernan and Sam Bettencourt. As their rec careers come to a close let us all remember them for their work on the boards (Griffin and Heff) and their hot shooting streaks (Bettencourt)
Team Stark
-This was one of the youngest teams in rec ball history. They fought hard in every game and had some fiery shooting streaks but in the end they just didn't have enough. If Coaches Stark and Foster could franchise these boys than they would be a promising group for the future but unfortunately this is the end. None of these players are seniors so they will be able to come back and make another run at the rec title next season.
Team Meyers
-This was one of the laziest yet effective teams this season. They rarely played defense (aside from Boge and Meyers) and yet they still got the job down in a lot of games. Like so many teams this season they lived and dies on threes and in the playoffs.... They died. May we pay respects to the seniors of this team; Boge', Charlie Sebastyn, James Sampson and Lucas Sotille. As their rec careers come to a close let us remember them for their defensive abilities (Boge and Charlie), offensive explosiveness (Sampson) and rebounding madness (Sotille).
Team Gingras
-This was one of those teams that just couldn't get the season to work. They had the pieces in place to be a good team but struggled to get wins. They had bigs in the Battles Boys, hustle in the Townsend Boys and skill in Connor Keegan. Rerun this season 10 times and we'd wager 7 of them come out with a better record and finish than this one did. May we pay respects to the senior of this team Mitch Townsend. As his rec career comes to a close let's remember him as the floor general we all loved. RIP Mitch Townsend.
Team Hecht
-This was one of the hardest working team's in rec history. They scrapped there way out of the 12th seed despite starting the season insanely slow. They fought on the boards and hustled on defense. They simply didn't have enough raw talent to get the wins this season. May we pay respect to the seniors of this team: Justin Griffin, David Heffernan and Sam Bettencourt. As their rec careers come to a close let us all remember them for their work on the boards (Griffin and Heff) and their hot shooting streaks (Bettencourt)
Team Stark
-This was one of the youngest teams in rec ball history. They fought hard in every game and had some fiery shooting streaks but in the end they just didn't have enough. If Coaches Stark and Foster could franchise these boys than they would be a promising group for the future but unfortunately this is the end. None of these players are seniors so they will be able to come back and make another run at the rec title next season.
Team Meyers
-This was one of the laziest yet effective teams this season. They rarely played defense (aside from Boge and Meyers) and yet they still got the job down in a lot of games. Like so many teams this season they lived and dies on threes and in the playoffs.... They died. May we pay respects to the seniors of this team; Boge', Charlie Sebastyn, James Sampson and Lucas Sotille. As their rec careers come to a close let us remember them for their defensive abilities (Boge and Charlie), offensive explosiveness (Sampson) and rebounding madness (Sotille).
Playoff Predictions- Round 2
Estes 60 vs Tornaritis 58
This is a tough game to predict because Team Estes has been dominant all season but Team Tornaritis is one team best equipped to take them down. Dean is wild card especially in the playoffs and Flanagan has a huge size advantage in the paint. If these two are both on then Team Tornaritis will likely win, but with that said Flanny hasn't been on all season so we're going with Team Estes. Their depth and athleticism will be extremely important for them to take down the great Deano.
Coveno 46 vs McNamara 44
Team McNamara is coming off a hard fought round one victory over Team Meyers, but with that they also showed their hand. They're offense runs through only a handful of guys and with Team Coveno's solid defense we think they're can control them. With that said, it doesn't matter how good Team Coveno's defense is if they don't score and that has been a problem for this Team all season.
Ordemann 48 vs Booth 45
Team Booth escaped the first round from a short handed Team Stark but we think the run will stop here. Team Ordemann has much more depth and top tier talent than Team Stark so we think Team Booth will struggle. Team Booth's only hope is to reign the threes. If Hickman and company can out shoot Team Ordemann from beyond the ark than they may be able to steal another one but we are not going to bank on this, so we are picking Team Ordemann.
Forbes 52 vs Dawson 44
On paper Team Forbes should have it easy but based on the first round there is a chance for Team Dawson. They went off in the second half of their round one win over Team Hecht and other thank Forbes, they should match up well in the paint. Another concern for Team Forbes is their bench. Everyone shows up for the playoffs and this will cut into the star's laying time. Manzi and Forbes have had the luxury of playing for most of their games but this might not be the case for tomorrow. Despite these questions we are still picking the Forbes to move onto the next round.
This is a tough game to predict because Team Estes has been dominant all season but Team Tornaritis is one team best equipped to take them down. Dean is wild card especially in the playoffs and Flanagan has a huge size advantage in the paint. If these two are both on then Team Tornaritis will likely win, but with that said Flanny hasn't been on all season so we're going with Team Estes. Their depth and athleticism will be extremely important for them to take down the great Deano.
Coveno 46 vs McNamara 44
Team McNamara is coming off a hard fought round one victory over Team Meyers, but with that they also showed their hand. They're offense runs through only a handful of guys and with Team Coveno's solid defense we think they're can control them. With that said, it doesn't matter how good Team Coveno's defense is if they don't score and that has been a problem for this Team all season.
Ordemann 48 vs Booth 45
Team Booth escaped the first round from a short handed Team Stark but we think the run will stop here. Team Ordemann has much more depth and top tier talent than Team Stark so we think Team Booth will struggle. Team Booth's only hope is to reign the threes. If Hickman and company can out shoot Team Ordemann from beyond the ark than they may be able to steal another one but we are not going to bank on this, so we are picking Team Ordemann.
Forbes 52 vs Dawson 44
On paper Team Forbes should have it easy but based on the first round there is a chance for Team Dawson. They went off in the second half of their round one win over Team Hecht and other thank Forbes, they should match up well in the paint. Another concern for Team Forbes is their bench. Everyone shows up for the playoffs and this will cut into the star's laying time. Manzi and Forbes have had the luxury of playing for most of their games but this might not be the case for tomorrow. Despite these questions we are still picking the Forbes to move onto the next round.
Playoff Results- Round 1
Tornaritis 53 over Gingas 44
Team Gingras fought hard but Team Tornaritis had the game in hand throughout. Dean proved too much handle and when Team Gingras doubled him, he started feeding his teammates who took advantage of the open layups. This unselfish play is what makes Dean so tough stop and is no one wants to play this team in the playoffs.
Booth 45 over Stark 43
Without Tim Stark, Team Stark never really had a chance. They still put one hell of a run together in the second half behind Coach Stark's adjustments. Unfortunately, Jacob Hickman and Jack O'Neal combined to be too good. Andrew Dorr's late game put back layup ended up being the nail in the coffin for Team Stark.
McNamara 51 over Meyers 44
Team Meyers was cold all game but even so they were in it late. Nick Boge's late 3 brought the game to within 2 points but Team McNamara was able to free throw their way to victory in the final minute. Jack Erickson's surprise 3 three's turned out to be huge in this big win for the 12th seed.
Dawson 71 over Hecht 46
Team Hecht put a run together early in the second half and then everything fell apart. We can't specifically point to anything but for some reason they were unable to compete for the last 10 minutes. Jeremy Sickles played tight defense on Elias Jiser and he just couldn't get going.
Team Gingras fought hard but Team Tornaritis had the game in hand throughout. Dean proved too much handle and when Team Gingras doubled him, he started feeding his teammates who took advantage of the open layups. This unselfish play is what makes Dean so tough stop and is no one wants to play this team in the playoffs.
Booth 45 over Stark 43
Without Tim Stark, Team Stark never really had a chance. They still put one hell of a run together in the second half behind Coach Stark's adjustments. Unfortunately, Jacob Hickman and Jack O'Neal combined to be too good. Andrew Dorr's late game put back layup ended up being the nail in the coffin for Team Stark.
McNamara 51 over Meyers 44
Team Meyers was cold all game but even so they were in it late. Nick Boge's late 3 brought the game to within 2 points but Team McNamara was able to free throw their way to victory in the final minute. Jack Erickson's surprise 3 three's turned out to be huge in this big win for the 12th seed.
Dawson 71 over Hecht 46
Team Hecht put a run together early in the second half and then everything fell apart. We can't specifically point to anything but for some reason they were unable to compete for the last 10 minutes. Jeremy Sickles played tight defense on Elias Jiser and he just couldn't get going.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Playoff Predictions- Round 1
Tornaritis 52 vs Gingras 47
This matchup is interesting because Team Tornaritis is clearly more skilled, but Team Gingras matches up to counter everything they do. Team Gingras has immense size which clogs up the paint for Dean and Justin and Team Gingras has Nate Townsend who can keep up with Dean on the perimeter. Despite these advantages, we simple can't pick Dean to lose in the first round of the playoffs. It should be noted that the last and only time these teams played to went to triple OT with Team Tornaritis pulling it out in the end. We expect and hope for a game of this excitement come friday night.
Meyers 45 vs McNamara 44
This is a tough game to predict. On one hand, Team Meyers has far more depth and has played far better than Team McNamara over the past month or so. But on the other hand, Team McNamara beat Team Meyers by 50 points last time! Team Meyers was missing a lot of key players, but still 50 points is a lot to make up for. Brian Scott*, offensive star for Team McNamara is on record saying "It's gonna be a show friday night." and that Team McNamara has "a free path to the semis". Should be fun to watch as he tries to continue his "revenge tour".
Booth 48 vs Stark 43
These teams match up extremely well against each other. Hickman vs Stark as probable point leaders.
Foster vs Booth (elder) as support. And Eldredge vs Dorr/ Booth (younger) on boards. All of these match-ups could go either way so we would expect this game to be very good. We are going with Team Booth on this one because of Hickman's senior leadership and Starks questionable defense. We expect Hickman to pull away from Stark in the end to get his team to the next round.
Dawson 49 vs Hecht 48 (in OT)
Both these teams are always in close games so we are calling it as close as they get. We think Team Hecht will have a lead late but Team Dawson will battle back and send it to overtime. In the predicted overtime we think Team Hecht goes cold without Senior Justin Griffin (out for the playoffs due to injury) and Team Dawson is able to escape into the next round. This is a super specific prediction so don't be surprised if it's way off but we are still picking Team Dawson.
*Fun Fact about Brian Scott. In last year's rec championship and three on three championship games, Brian Scott scored a grand total of 0 points. He clearly cracks under the pressure of the playoffs so let's see if he can shake these nerves this postseason.
This matchup is interesting because Team Tornaritis is clearly more skilled, but Team Gingras matches up to counter everything they do. Team Gingras has immense size which clogs up the paint for Dean and Justin and Team Gingras has Nate Townsend who can keep up with Dean on the perimeter. Despite these advantages, we simple can't pick Dean to lose in the first round of the playoffs. It should be noted that the last and only time these teams played to went to triple OT with Team Tornaritis pulling it out in the end. We expect and hope for a game of this excitement come friday night.
Meyers 45 vs McNamara 44
This is a tough game to predict. On one hand, Team Meyers has far more depth and has played far better than Team McNamara over the past month or so. But on the other hand, Team McNamara beat Team Meyers by 50 points last time! Team Meyers was missing a lot of key players, but still 50 points is a lot to make up for. Brian Scott*, offensive star for Team McNamara is on record saying "It's gonna be a show friday night." and that Team McNamara has "a free path to the semis". Should be fun to watch as he tries to continue his "revenge tour".
Booth 48 vs Stark 43
These teams match up extremely well against each other. Hickman vs Stark as probable point leaders.
Foster vs Booth (elder) as support. And Eldredge vs Dorr/ Booth (younger) on boards. All of these match-ups could go either way so we would expect this game to be very good. We are going with Team Booth on this one because of Hickman's senior leadership and Starks questionable defense. We expect Hickman to pull away from Stark in the end to get his team to the next round.
Dawson 49 vs Hecht 48 (in OT)
Both these teams are always in close games so we are calling it as close as they get. We think Team Hecht will have a lead late but Team Dawson will battle back and send it to overtime. In the predicted overtime we think Team Hecht goes cold without Senior Justin Griffin (out for the playoffs due to injury) and Team Dawson is able to escape into the next round. This is a super specific prediction so don't be surprised if it's way off but we are still picking Team Dawson.
*Fun Fact about Brian Scott. In last year's rec championship and three on three championship games, Brian Scott scored a grand total of 0 points. He clearly cracks under the pressure of the playoffs so let's see if he can shake these nerves this postseason.
Regular Season Awards
League MVP- Will Manzi
Most people, including the board, were expecting Dean Tornaritis to win the MVP this year but in a 5 to 4 vote, Manzi beat him out. Manzi had not only played out of his mind this season, but he has also led his team to the 3 seed. Although Manzi's stats have been skewed by the increased playing time due to the lake of depth on Team Forbes, he has earned this reward.
Notable contenders this season were Dean Tornaritis, and Jacob Hickman.
Sleeper Pick- Alex Sellers
When people think of Sellers they don't think of a basketball star, but this season he has proven to be a prominent paint presence and this year's sleeper pick. Sellers was ranked way below his level of play this season. Coach Dawson picked him early and he still out shined that value.
Notable Contenders this season were Nick Antonopoulos, and Ryan Teduits.
Defensive Player of the Year- Nick Boge'
Boge' has been a consistant defensive player his entire rec ball career and he has proved it again this year. Boge' brings a level of defense that would be lacking on Team Meyers. Without him we highly doubt they would have gotten to the respectable 6-6 record. Although other players may be skeptical of Boge' because of his height and poor jump shot to say the least, this award is well deserved and we applaud Boge' for his defensive work.
Notable Contenders this season were Zach Coveno (Who averaged a charge drawn a game), Tristan Nabo, and Dean Tornaritis.
6 Man of the Year (Because there are not set starting line-ups in rec this is essentially the best roll player of the season)- The Teduits Twins
As rookies, no one in the league saw this storm coming. Playing behind their resurgent brother, Jeremy Keast, Connor Estes and Mathew Cota, Bradley and Colin are what makes Team Estes great. They typically draw weaker defenders and they take advantage. Without these two rising stars we are confident Team Estes would not be the powerhouse they are today.
Notable Contenders this season were Will Zimmon, Lucas Sotille, and Jonathan Purville.
Most Improved- Ryan Teduits
When he first returned from injury Teduits was horrendous at best. But he worked hard to recover from his injury and has now risen to be one of the league's best players. We were hard on Teduits because of his self confidence but he turned it around and is this year's Most Improved player.
Notable Contenders this season were Joey Madden, Andrew Dorr, and Peter Eldredge.
Coach of the Year- Coach Coveno
Coveno has crafted the second best defense in the league despite his star player (Zack Gavel) being a famously poor defender. The evolution of Patrick Sullivan, Tristan Chase and Liam Brown (a 2 year veteran under Coveno) is proof enough for Coveno's success as a coach.
Notable Contenders were Coach Dawson, and Hecht
Rookie of the Year- Tim Stark
Tim Stark is certainly the future of rec ball. He is already performing at a very high level as a freshmen. He led his subpar team to the 7th seed and they are now somewhat legitimate contenders for the championship. The only thing that could stop Stark from a future rec MVP run is his High School Basketball Career. Stark has a good chance to make the Varsity team in the coming years and as Dylan Dawson, Wiley Ordemann and Joey Femia and learning, you can't do both.
Notable Contenders this season were Jack Foster and Elias Jiser.
All Stars
Nick Poitras
Jacob Gavel
Mitch Townsend
Connor Keegan
Jacob Hickman
Jack O'Neil
Griffin Crowell
Jack Erickson
Zack Gavel
Adam Scott
Elias Jiser
Sam Bettencourt
Tim Stark
Jack Foster
Ben Wadden
Alex Sellers
Dean Tornaritis
Justin Flanagan
Will Manzi
Nate Forbes
Mathew Cota
Jeremy Keast
James Sampson
Mark DeBinder
Most people, including the board, were expecting Dean Tornaritis to win the MVP this year but in a 5 to 4 vote, Manzi beat him out. Manzi had not only played out of his mind this season, but he has also led his team to the 3 seed. Although Manzi's stats have been skewed by the increased playing time due to the lake of depth on Team Forbes, he has earned this reward.
Notable contenders this season were Dean Tornaritis, and Jacob Hickman.
Sleeper Pick- Alex Sellers
When people think of Sellers they don't think of a basketball star, but this season he has proven to be a prominent paint presence and this year's sleeper pick. Sellers was ranked way below his level of play this season. Coach Dawson picked him early and he still out shined that value.
Notable Contenders this season were Nick Antonopoulos, and Ryan Teduits.
Defensive Player of the Year- Nick Boge'
Boge' has been a consistant defensive player his entire rec ball career and he has proved it again this year. Boge' brings a level of defense that would be lacking on Team Meyers. Without him we highly doubt they would have gotten to the respectable 6-6 record. Although other players may be skeptical of Boge' because of his height and poor jump shot to say the least, this award is well deserved and we applaud Boge' for his defensive work.
Notable Contenders this season were Zach Coveno (Who averaged a charge drawn a game), Tristan Nabo, and Dean Tornaritis.
6 Man of the Year (Because there are not set starting line-ups in rec this is essentially the best roll player of the season)- The Teduits Twins
As rookies, no one in the league saw this storm coming. Playing behind their resurgent brother, Jeremy Keast, Connor Estes and Mathew Cota, Bradley and Colin are what makes Team Estes great. They typically draw weaker defenders and they take advantage. Without these two rising stars we are confident Team Estes would not be the powerhouse they are today.
Notable Contenders this season were Will Zimmon, Lucas Sotille, and Jonathan Purville.
Most Improved- Ryan Teduits
When he first returned from injury Teduits was horrendous at best. But he worked hard to recover from his injury and has now risen to be one of the league's best players. We were hard on Teduits because of his self confidence but he turned it around and is this year's Most Improved player.
Notable Contenders this season were Joey Madden, Andrew Dorr, and Peter Eldredge.
Coach of the Year- Coach Coveno
Coveno has crafted the second best defense in the league despite his star player (Zack Gavel) being a famously poor defender. The evolution of Patrick Sullivan, Tristan Chase and Liam Brown (a 2 year veteran under Coveno) is proof enough for Coveno's success as a coach.
Notable Contenders were Coach Dawson, and Hecht
Rookie of the Year- Tim Stark
Tim Stark is certainly the future of rec ball. He is already performing at a very high level as a freshmen. He led his subpar team to the 7th seed and they are now somewhat legitimate contenders for the championship. The only thing that could stop Stark from a future rec MVP run is his High School Basketball Career. Stark has a good chance to make the Varsity team in the coming years and as Dylan Dawson, Wiley Ordemann and Joey Femia and learning, you can't do both.
Notable Contenders this season were Jack Foster and Elias Jiser.
All Stars
Nick Poitras
Jacob Gavel
Mitch Townsend
Connor Keegan
Jacob Hickman
Jack O'Neil
Griffin Crowell
Jack Erickson
Zack Gavel
Adam Scott
Elias Jiser
Sam Bettencourt
Tim Stark
Jack Foster
Ben Wadden
Alex Sellers
Dean Tornaritis
Justin Flanagan
Will Manzi
Nate Forbes
Mathew Cota
Jeremy Keast
James Sampson
Mark DeBinder
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