Rainmen Hand Rochester Their First "L" of the Season - RAINMEN 102, RAZORSHARKS 99

RAINMEN 102, RAZORSHARKS 99
Rainmen Record:  6W-2L

The Halifax Rainmen made a statement Sunday afternoon by giving the undefeated Rochester Razorsharks their first defeat of the season.  Halifax put together one of the team's best performances against the defending champs and held off the pesky Razorsharks 102-99.  It was a truly physical matchup between the two teams, so much so, that both teams got a little chippy before halftime.   

The first half was all Rainmen as everything was just clicking for Halifax.  The Rainmen went on a roll, going on a 10-0 run midway through the second quarter to help build a 17-point lead.  By halftime, the Rainmen were up 52-39.

In the second half, the Razorsharks, as expected, didn't lay down and made a run with guys like Lincoln Smith and Jerice Crouch leading the way.  Rochester continued to chip away at the Rainmen lead when Randy Gill (a Halifax fan favourite.....sarcasm) made a three ball with 3:42 to play in the fourth to tie the game at 90.  But the Rainmen showed composure and closed out the game.  A big three from Ferguson, a Crookshank dunk along with some clutch free throws from Gary Ervin helped seal the win.  In the closing seconds, with the Rainmen up three, the Razorsharks had an opportunity to send the game to overtime but Jerice Crouch's three bounced off of the rim.

Desmond Ferguson led the Rainmen with 26 points and Eric Crookshank looked good in his return after missing the last game in Puerto Rico.  Crook had 21 points and worked the glass grabbing 14 rebounds.

For the Razorsharks, Lincoln Smith led the team with 18 pts and last season's MVP, Keith Friel finished with 12 points.  Former Rainmen, Glen Dandridge and David Bailey were in uniform for Rochester, Dandridge had 12 pts while Bailey had 6 pts and 5 boards.

Shaun "Mavs" Gillis and Ryan Dickison's Player of the Game
Eric Crookshank 21 pts (10-13 from the field), 14 rebounds, 5 swats and 2 steals

Romy Aquino's Player of the Game
Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson  26 pts (5 triples), 5/6 from the FT line

Hat-tip to the Razorsharks
Lincoln Smith 18 pts (8 of 10 from the field), 5 rebounds

Key Notes:

• Points in the Paint: 52-44 for Halifax
• Block Party:  Halifax played some great D, and had 10 blocks with 5 coming from Crookshank
• Rochester Perfect from FT:  Razorsharks made all their free throws as they were 17 for 17 from the line
• Heated Exchange:  Double technicals were issued to both Keith Friel and Tony Bennett as both had some heated words right before the halftime which caused both benches to clear as the referees had to separate the two teams
• Undefeated at Home:  Halifax continues to roll at home and now have a 4-0 home record
• Canadian Watch: Garry Gallimore 5 pts, 2 rebounds, Jevohn Shepherd 2 pts, 3 rebounds
• Hoops for Haiti: Halifax team owner, Andre Levingston went head to head against CEO of Eastlink, Lee Bragg in a free throw shootout with proceeds going towards Haiti disaster relief efforts. Hoops for Haiti raised $31,000 for the cause,  you can find out more at rainmenbasketball.ca
• Most interesting Rainmen intro:  "A man who grew up with the Donair......Halifax's own, Devon Norris"
• Watch the replay of Sunday's game here
• Great Home Crowd:  The Metro Centre had a good crowd with 4000+; Heckler's Row was in attendance in their bathrobes and Santa suits
• New Face to Halifax: Newly acquired Cameron Stanley was in uniform for the Rainmen but was a DNP in this one

I had the opportunity to talk to Scott from the D-League blog, Ridiculous Upside, to get a scouting report on Cameron Stanley.  Here's his scouting report on former D-Leaguer and newest member of the Halifax Rainmen:

"Cam Stanley's a left-handed wing that made the Dakota Wizards after showing up and playing well in an open-tryout in Washington, D.C. He probably would've made the Wizards, but was released because the Wizards had Romel Beck (the Mexican National Team's leading scorer) and Renaldo Major (former D-League defensive player of the year and D-League call-up) at his position. While he was in camp, he showed athleticism, a good basketball IQ and turned out he could defend pretty well. He also did a good job of getting to the hoop, but his jump shot mechanics looked a bit shaky.


Prior to the Wizards, I don't honestly know enough about him. He played three seasons at Wake Forest before transferring to Winthrop for his senior season."

Be sure to check out Scott's blog, Ridiculous Upside for all your NBA D-League news/updates.

The Halifax Rainmen take on the 2-5 Buffalo Stampede next Sunday at the Halifax Metro Centre (Game time 2pm AST)

Halifax has a favourable schedule in the month of February with three straight games against teams with losing records (Buffalo, Manchester and Maryland) before facing off against Puerto Rico on the 26th.  What's you prediction for the next three?  3-0? 2-1? Let us know your thoughts...

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Rainmen-Razorsharks Game Preview with Rochester Head Coach, Rod Baker

One of the reasons why the Rochester Razorsharks are two-time champions is because of the two-time PBL Coach of the Year, Rod Baker.  Baker has well over 30 years of coaching experience. He has coached everywhere from Seton Hall University to the US Men's Basketball team at the University Games to his head coaching duties with the Harlem Globetrotters.  This season, the Razorsharks continue this success as they are just one of two teams remaining with an unblemished record this season, with a record of 5-0. 

This Sunday, the Razorsharks face off against the Halifax Rainmen here in Halifax.  I had the opportunity to ask Rod his thoughts on Rochester's successful start, his thoughts on the upcoming matchup with the Rainmen and what it was like working with NBA superstars at the Nike Skills Academy this past summer.
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Romy (Haligonia.ca): The Rainmen have a tough test ahead of them facing off against the two-time PBL champs, your Rochester Razorsharks. Your Razorsharks currently hold a 5-0 record, what has been the key to the Razorsharks' success this season?

Rod Baker: We return a core of players who have been with us for awhile and that continuity helps our success. There is a level of understanding of me and what we do that doesn't happen overnight.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What's going to be the biggest challenge in your matchup with the Rainmen?

Rod Baker: The Rainmen are a team with a very high skill level and there is mixture of youth and experience that is tough to match. I am also sure that from what I have seen online your fans will be out in force to welcome us. Our fans in Rochester are the best but yours are a very close second in their support for the team.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): For those of us in Halifax who have yet to see the PBL's leading scorer Keith Friel play, what does Keith bring to the Razorsharks?

Rod Baker: Keith is a great long range shooter who also knows how to play the game. He has a tremendous feel for his teammates and vice versa. He can go on streaks that must be similar to what Ferguson has done for the Rainmen.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Former Halifax Rainmen player, Glen Dandridge, is currently on the Razorsharks roster, how has Dandridge fit in with the team?

Rod Baker: Glen has done a tremendous job for us to this point. He is a gifted athlete whose shooting ability complements Friel and makes it difficult for an opponent to shade to one side. Another former Rainman, David Bailey is also helping us firm up our interior play especially defensively. I am sure that your fans will welcome both of the young men back to the area.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You have over 30 years of coaching experience, what is your ultimate goal as a basketball coach? Do you ever see yourself as a coach in the NBA?

Rod Baker: I presently have the best job in minor league basketball and I am grateful for the success that we have had. My responsibility is to help Rochester put a quality product on the floor day in/day out. I enjoy the job that I have and that's where my aspirations lie.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You coached at a Nike Skills Academy this past summer working with the likes of NBA superstars, Lebron James, Vince Carter and Paul Pierce, how was that experience?

Rod Baker: I have worked for Nike for the last 5 summers I think and have had the opportunity to work with not only those guys but also Kobe Bryant and Amare Stoudemire. All of these guys spend a great deal of hands on time with the campers and staff so from that standpoint it is great. The athletes there are both HS and College level and to watch their development is the most rewarding. Almost every night when I turn on the TV to watch a game I see a guy who has come through our program.
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Rod and his Rochester Razorsharks face off against the Halifax Rainmen this Sunday (game time 2pm AST) at the Halifax Metro Centre.  You can also watch the game live online right here on Haligonia.ca  

A big thanks goes out to Rod Baker for participating in our game preview, be sure to check out Rod and the Rochester Razorsharks at Razorsharks.com

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Los R-R-R-R-R-Rainmen Lose To Puerto Rico - CAPITANES 108, RAINMEN 101

CAPITANES 108, RAINMEN 101
Rainmen record: 5W - 2L

Ok....I thought “Mavs” Gillis was energetic on Haligonia's Rainmen broadcasts but you have to check out the Puerto Rico Capitanes' games online. The Puerto Rico broadcast team may be some of the most exciting play-by-play guys online and what makes it even more enjoyable is the fact that it’s in Spanish. The rolling R's and the occasional "EN FUEGO!!" kept me entertained.  On top of that, the broadcast also has the NBA on NBC theme playing into the breaks.

The crappy part about last night's online feed? It died in the final minute of last night's game.

First off, the Rainmen were shorthanded in Puerto Rico. Eric Crookshank didn't make the trip as he and his girlfriend were expecting the birth of their first child. They were also short another body as Marlowe Currie did not travel with the team (and is no longer a member of the Rainmen due to passport issues).  As a result, John Strickland got the start at power forward.   And, for a shorthanded squad, Halifax put out an excellent effort against the undefeated Capitanes, but just came up short.

It was a tight matchup all the way down the stretch until a Gary Ervin turnover with 1:32 to play that led to a David Cortes basket to put the Capitanes up four. The Capitanes tightened down on defense in the final minute and went on a mini 7-1 run.

The bulk of the Capitanes's offense came from their starting five of Elias Ayuso, David Cortes, Jeffrion Aubry, Angelo Reyes and Andres Rodriguez. Two of the starters finished with double doubles, Aubry (18 pts, 14 rebounds) and PBL rebounding leader Reyes (14 pts, 19 rebounds). Puerto Rico guard, Andres Rodriguez ran the Puerto Rico offense and finished with a season-high 13 assists.

Halifax got excellent production from their reserves as Jevohn Shepherd and Adris DeLeon were sparks off of the bench.  Toronto native, Jevohn Sheperd, led the Rainmen in scoring with 24 points in just 18 minutes of play.  DeLeon followed Shepherd with 20 points in just 16 minutes of play.  Tony Bennett had his lowest point total of the season finishing with 11.

The Capitanes continue to roll over the competition and are an impressive 7-0.

Key Notes:

• Bench Production:  The Halifax bench scored 51 of the Rainmen's 101 points with Adris Deleon and Jevohn Shepherd combining for 44 of them 
• Crookshank was definitely missed:  Halifax was outrebounded 45-33, Crookshank, the Rainmen's leading rebounder, would have made an impact on the glass
• Sharing the Wealth:  Puerto Rico had 27 dimes to Halifax's 10
• Points in the Paint: 42-36 Puerto Rico
• Canadian Watch:  Jevohn Shepherd 24 pts, 6 rebounds, Garry Gallimore 2 pts, 3 rebounds, 2 assists

Post Game Links:

Chronicle Herald

"Like two heavyweights in the ring, the Halifax Rainmen and Puerto Rico Capitanes traded body blows and absorbed each other’s best shots Thursday night in the season’s first major showdown for first place in the Premier Basketball League."

Metro Halifax

"The Rainmen slugged it out with the best team in the Premier Basketball League on Thursday night in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, but saw their five-game winning streak come to an abrupt halt with a 108-101 loss to the unbeaten Capitanes."

PBL.com

"Then in the fourth quarter, Halifax managed to take the lead again 86-89. Then Puerto Rico got an offensive push from Jeff Aubry, which reached 8 points in a row, of the 16 he had on the quarter. With 1:36 left in the game, Andrés Rodríguez won a great defensive bout with Gary Ervin and manage to steal the ball, and David Cortés converted in a quick transition basket to extend the lead of the Capitanes and put the game in a safe place. On the next play Jeff Aubry hits two free throws and sealed the victory for Puerto Rico 108-101. "

The Rainmen are back home on Sunday to face off against two-time PBL champs, the Rochester Razorsharks...

Will the Rainmen remain undefeated at home this Sunday?  Let us know your thoughts!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Talkin' Hoops with the voice of the Halifax Rainmen, Shaun "Mavs" Gillis

(Shaun "Mavs" Gillis interviewing Halifax's Garry Gallimore)

The Halifax Rainmen and Haligonia are lucky to have a guy like Shaun "Mavs" Gillis call Rainmen games on Haligonia.ca. The guy is both energetic and enthusiastic when doing play-by-play and makes the Haligonia broadcast enjoyable for the online viewers. He is passionate about sports and in addition to doing the play by play for the Rainman games, he has a full time gig at Sports Direct Inc. I asked "Mavs" about his thoughts on this season's Rainmen, his opinion on the possibility of Halifax moving to the NBA D-League and his starting five of the decade.

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Romy (Haligonia.ca): You're in your second season calling Halifax Rainmen games, how did you get involved with the Halifax Rainmen play-by-play with Haligonia.ca?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: I’ve been involved with basketball for about ten years now, I started off as a public address announcer for the then UCCB, now CBU Capers in 2000. I was hoping to get a chance to become involved with the team in that position and thought it would have taken a year or two to get into a position like that. Two days after being on the campus I had the job thanks to my high school gym teacher Ron Shaw who was the assistant coach of the Capers at the time. After five amazing years there I learned a heck of a lot about basketball, got my education, and headed up to Halifax to get some more schooling. I took a year off from announcing basketball and I missed it so much that I got in touch with SMU about coming in and doing those games. SMU brought me on board and then the doors for doing some announcing around Halifax opened up and I was fortunate enough to have the Rainmen bring me in as their PA guy for the ABA season.

I was getting ready for the second season when Jenn Gillespe and Nancy Sheppherd asked if I would be willing to make the switch over to play by play for Haligonia. So far that move has worked out really well.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What's the meaning behind the nickname "Mavs"?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: The Mavs nickname started in grade 6 when I started to cheer for a team in Dallas called the Mavericks, you might have heard of them, well now you would have, but back in 93-94 the Mavericks weren’t a power-house they were more an outhouse. My reasoning for going for this team was because quite frankly, the 11-71 Mavericks seemed to have the same basketball skill level as me. Before I knew it I was started being called Mavericks for going for the team, it got shortened down to Mavs. Cut to scene two it’s been almost 15 years and I’m still called Mavs and the majority of people who know me don’t know my real name, and I still love the team.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You've had the opportunity to see the Rainmen play a few early games this season, who has impressed you the most from this team?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: I have to say I have been impressed with Crookshank as it seems he’s been a guy who seems to raise his game every time the Rainmen or the league steps it up a notch. Now the next few games against Puerto Rico and Rochester are going to be a big test for number 20 so I’m excited to see what he can do against this next level of competition.

As for newcomers I’ve liked Adris Deleon coming off the bench for a great spark of energy and Desmond Ferguson has really lived up to the hype as a three point specialist.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): In your opinion, what do you think will be the Rainmen's biggest weakness this season?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: Right now it’s been free throw shooting for the Rainmen that’s been just getting everyone in the building hair standing up. They have been leaving way too many points on the line.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Halifax has had its share of pro basketball with the Halifax Windjammers back in the 90's and now have the Rainmen into its third season. Why is Halifax such a good market for a pro basketball team? And do you think the Rainmen will ever move into the NBA D-League?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: Halifax is a great basketball city, we hosted the CIS nationals for 24 years, there’s an excellent tournament every May in the Black Basketball tournament, two university teams, a few college teams and a very competitive high school league. With such a great basketball structure in place a professional team that showcases the game at a very high level will always have a home in this city.

As for the D-League, I hope it happens, right now the team is in a great league in the PBL and we’re very fortunate to be in this league but the D-League would be amazing. When people talk about the D-League and Rainmen, I feel strongly that this team needs to pick the right NBA team to be affiliated with if we do make the jump. The team that does make the most sense in my mind is the New Jersey Nets, not the Raptors. I feel a Raptors affiliation would have the team in Southern Ontario sooner rather than later.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You're a big sports fan, who have been some of your favourite sports play-by-play guys?

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: Kevin Harlan has been a guy I’ve been really liking the last few years, now sure him and Marv Albert are very similar but that’s a good thing cause Marv is the best. I do listen to a lot of sports talk radio and I’m a fan of Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo as well as Scott Ferrall from the Howard Stern channels. Ferrall might not be the best guy for kids to listen to however he is entertaining for an older crowd.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Lastly, let's hear your 'Starting Five of the Decade' (2000-2010) for the NBA.

Shaun “Mavs” Gillis: Starting five for the decade at the point Steve Nash, two guard Kobe Bryant, the three Rasheed Wallace, at the four Ze German Dirk Nowitzki, and at centre Shaq. As well I’d put Mark Cuban as the owner, Don Nelson as the coach, sixth man Paul Pierce, announce team Marv Albert with Doug Collins, and Craig Sager on the sidelines. Half time entertainment will be provided by Todd MacCulloch playing pinball.

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A huge thanks to Shaun for taking part in our Q and A, be sure to check him out during the live online broadcasts of Halifax Rainmen home games on Haligonia.ca!

Check out previous Rainmen-related Q and A's:

• Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson
• Devon "Chuck" Norris
• Adris "2 Hard 2 Guard" DeLeon
• Halifax Rainmen DJ, RS Smooth

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Talkin' Hoops with Halifax Rainmen forward, Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson

If you've been to any of the Halifax Rainmen home games this season, the guy that's draining all the threes with ease is Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson.  The guy got the nickname back in the day from his old AAU teammates, Kevin Garnett and Robert "Tractor" Traylor.  Desmond, from Lansing, Michigan, which is also the home of Ervin "Magic" Johnson, played for the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers as well as other pro basketball leagues around the globe.  He played for the Manchester Millrats last season and was named to the PBL All-Playoff team.   What's more impressive is that Moneyball also owns his own clothing company named Moneyball Sportswear specializing in athletic apparel.

I got the chance to ask Desmond about his company, the biggest joker on the Rainmen squad and his favourite Michael Jackson tracks.
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Romy (Haligonia.ca): Judging from your hoops resume, you've played all over the world and you've even spent some time in the NBA, what's your opinion of the city of Halifax so far? Is this your first time playing for a Canadian team?

Desmond Ferguson: This is my first time playing in Canada. I played with the Manchester, NH team last year, so we came up here a couple times to play. But this is actually my first time playing for a team in Canada. The city of Halifax has been great thus far. I haven't been a whole lot of places, but so far, so good. I feel we have the best fans in minor league basketball and that played a part in me becoming a member of the Rainmen this season.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You've had stints in Europe, Asia, and throughout the US, what were some of your more interesting/unique playing experiences?

Desmond Ferguson: Really, they all were. I have been blessed to use basketball as a tool to experience living in different countries, different cultures, and different ways of life. I have stories for days about many of the places that I have been, good and bad, but that would take forever. I value all of those experiences because they help shape the person that I am today.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): The Rainmen have a new look this year with their new uniforms and your company, Moneyball Sportswear, designed the new unis. How did you get involved with running your own sportswear company?

Desmond Ferguson: I never really wanted to work for anyone else. I started off as the neighborhood barber at the age of 12, so I always had ambitions of being an entrepreneur. So, with the downtime that I had my first professional season playing in Holland, I came up with the idea of wanting to own a basketball uniform and apparel company. Many athletes play sports for years, but don't really prepare for when they can no longer play that sport and then they are stuck in no mans land. I've seen it first hand, so I don't want to fall victim to that. But after brainstorming about the potential business venture I just did my research and seen that I could make it work. I knew that I wanted to be involved with basketball in some shape, form, or fashion, because of my love for the game... and 7 years later, here we are.

Moneyball Sportswear, a small business that is growing year by year. Check out the website when you get a chance.

http://www.moneyballsportswear.com/ and on Facebook: Moneyball Sportswear

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You've played for Manchester last year who were in last season's playoffs, what do you think of this season's Rainmen roster? Do they have the right tools to make this season's playoffs?

Desmond Ferguson: Yes. I think Andre has done a good job of getting the right mix of players together to compete at a high level. My goal in coming here is to help get this team to the playoffs and bring a championship to Halifax. So, yes, with the team that we have, I feel that we can get it done. We just have to continue to improve as a team and everything else will take care of itself.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Who is the biggest jokester on the team?

Desmond Ferguson: Crook by farrrrrrrrr!

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Let's talk some NBA, who was your team as a kid? What current player do you like watching nowadays?

Desmond Ferguson: Well, I'm from Lansing, MI so growing up, I was a little bit torn. I obviously was a Detroit Pistons fan as they went on to win back to back NBA Championships in the late 80's. But at the same time, there was this guy that is the greatest point guard to ever play the game, that is from Lansing, MI, and that happened to play for the Los Angles Lakers. He goes by the name of Ervin "Magic" Johnson. lol. So, to make a long story short, I was a fan of both teams. I would say the hometown Detroit Pistons had the slight edge though..... As far as the current player that I like watching now, I would have to say Lebron James.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What's your take on this whole Gilbert Arenas situation? 

Desmond Ferguson: I think the whole Arenas situation is unfortunate. I wish that it could have been an in-house type of thing that didn't get out to the media. But sometimes when you make your bed, you have to lay in it. I don't wish bad on anyone. I hope that he is able to come out in the best situation possible under the current circumstances that he is faced with.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): I read on your blog that you were a big MJ fan (Michael Jackson, that is), let's hear your fave five MJ tracks.

Desmond Ferguson: My favorite five MJ tracks are (in no particular order):

• Thriller
• Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
• Man in The Mirror
• Rock With You
• Beat It

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What current artists are you into right now?

Desmond Ferguson: I listen mostly to Hip Hop and RnB. Nas is my favorite. The early to mid-90's era of Hip Hop is what I love. Wu Tang, Biggie, A Tribe Called Quest, Outkast, Dr. Dre and Snoop, etc. On the RnB tip Trey Songz is hot right now. I like Musiq Soulchild, Donnell Jones, John Legend, just to name a few.
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To find out more about Moneyball Sportswear, visit MoneyballSportswear.com and you can catch Desmond at the Halifax Rainmen home games.  Thanks again to Desmond for participating in our Q and A.

Check out previous Rainmen-related Q and A's:

• Devon "Chuck" Norris
• Adris "2 Hard 2 Guard" DeLeon
• Halifax Rainmen DJ, RS Smooth

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Breaking Down The Boxscore - RAINMEN 107, MILLRATS 99

RAINMEN 107, MILLRATS 99
Rainmen record: 5W - 1L

Make it five wins in a row.  Halifax rung up another win and this time it was on the road against the Manchester Millrats.  From the boxscore, it looked like it was tight knit battle until Halifax's Jevohn Shepherd made a few key baskets in the final quarter.  Shepherd scored 9 of his 14 points  in the fourth including a jumper that put the Rainmen up seven with 5:43 to play.  The Rainmen were down by one point at the end of the third until Halifax pulled out the win in the final quarter, 107-99.

Tony Bennett led the Rainmen with 25 pts, 5 boards, 3 assists and 3 steals.  Eric Crookshank finished with the double double with 12 pts and 12 rebounds.

For the Millrats, Anthony Anderson led all scorers with 27 points.

Let's break down the boxscore...

Key Notes:

• Glaring Stat of the Night:  The Rainmen had great bench production from guys like Shepherd, DeLeon and Gallimore.  Halifax's bench scored 44 of the Rainmen's 107 points.
• Big Three: Manchester had three players with 20+ pts: Anthony Anderson (27 pts), Dwight Brewington (24 pts) and Alexus Foyle (20 pts)
• Fourth Quarter:  Rainmen pulled away in the fourth, outscoring Manchester 26-17
• Offnight for Moneyball: Desmond Ferguson had an offnight against his former squad, only shooting 2 for 11, "Moneyball" finished with 9 pts
• Decent shooting night for Halifax - 59.8% from the field
• "Baby Strick": DeAndre Thomas was a DNP for this game
• Hat-tip to the Millrats:  Dwight Brewington 24 pts, 10 rebounds, 2 steals
• Canadian Watch:  Jevohn Shepherd 14 pts, 2 reb, Garry Gallimore 8 pts, 4 rebounds
• Movin' On Up: Halifax now sits second in the standings, right behind Puerto Rico who are 5-0

Post Game Links:

OurSportsCentral.com
RainmenBasketball.ca

"Both teams proved to be evenly matched with the score knotted at 24 after one. The Millrats relied mostly on their half court game to generate their offense in the first. In the half court, Manchester crashed the boards and took advantage of their second-chance opportunities. They were led by Alexus Foyle, who cleaned the glass with a couple of put-backs on his way to registering eight first-quarter points."

"The win improves the Rainmen to 5-1 on the season, lifts them into second place in the league, and puts them in a three-way battle for top spot in the league with two undefeated teams. The league-leading Puerto Rico Capitanes are 5-0 and the Rochester Razorsharks sit right behind the Rainmen at 4-0."

The Rainmen continue on the road as they play the Puerto Rico Capitanes in Puerto Rico this Thursday.  Will the Rainmen make it six straight?  Let us know and post your comments!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Rainmen-Millrats Game Preview with Manchester GM, Ian McCarthy

The 4-1 Halifax Rainmen are on the road today facing off against the 2-3 Manchester Millrats (Game Time 5:05 AST).  In their last matchup, the Rainmen defeated the Millrats in the preseason Holiday Classic 101-97 back in December.  Manchester currently has one of the top scorers in the PBL, Eric Gilchrese, who averages 23.5 points per game.  Also on this team, is Luke Bonner, younger brother of Matt Bonner of the San Antonio Spurs and former Toronto Raptor.

Ian McCarthy is the general manager and head assistant coach for the New Hampshire team.  He was named GM of the year in 2007-08 when the team was a member of the ABA.  After their one season in the ABA, the team made the move to the PBL along with the Halifax Rainmen.  I had the opportunity to ask Ian about the upcoming matchup with Halifax, the scouting report on Marlowe Currie and his best Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson story.

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Romy (Haligonia.ca): This will be the first regular season matchup between Manchester and Halifax. What will the Rainmen have to do to stop the Millrats this weekend?

Ian McCarthy: So far Halifax appears to be a very good defensive team. We feel we have four of the best guards in the league with Anthony Anderson, Al Stewart, Dwight Brewington, and Eric Gilchrese, so to slow down the Millrats you have to first stop our guards.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Who on Manchester will cause the biggest matchup problem for Halifax?

Ian McCarthy: I think Dwight Brewington, who's been moved from small forward to the point guard position. He's 6'5 and a great penetrator so if there's a small guard on him, it's a mismatch, and it'd be hard for Des to keep him in front as well.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Halifax acquired Marlowe Currie from Manchester in a trade earlier this week. What's the scouting report on Currie?

Ian McCarthy:  Currie's a poor man's Larry Bird. He's a great three point shooter, he can go in the post, and he does the dirty work as well.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Who on the Millrats' current roster has impressed you so far?

Ian McCarthy:  I have a great relationship with several players on our team which stretches back a couple years. Many of them have played with us in the summer, so I have alot of confidence in their abilities. The one guy who's really impressed me is Eric Gilchrese. I think I am a great judge of talent, but I had no idea Eric would be this good, this soon, when we drafted him. We weren't sure if we had a roster spot for him at the beginning of the season, but since then he's become the league's second leading scorer. What's funny is that I actually offered him to Vermont, Quebec, and Halifax just to help him, and got no interest. In his first couple games, he scored 26 against Quebec and 21 against Rochester, and suddenly everybody wanted him!

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  So when did you first get involved with the Manchester Millrats organization?

Ian McCarthy:  I founded the franchise in the summer of 2007. The basketball operations actually began in 2005 as the Boston Frenzy, then the Cape Cod Frenzy, and then the Manchester team was started in August of 2007.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  One of Halifax's biggest acquisitions this offseason was the addition of former Millrat, Desmond Ferguson, let's hear your best Desmond Ferguson story.

Ian McCarthy:  Preseason last year, Des had been in a little slump, and dealing with an injury. When we were playing Vermont in the Green Mountain Tip Off Tournament, we were down 3 or 4 points in the late 4th quarter, and Des caught a pass in transition in front of our bench and as the ball left his hands he shouted "that's what I doooooo!!". Of course the 30 footer was nothing but net and he hit two more in the waning minutes to win the game. For the rest of the season, whenever someone did something great in their area, we'd say "that's what I doooooo!" - even if I made a good signing Des would look at me and say "that's what you doooo!". It held special meaning cause it helped us beat our arch rival.

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Be sure to check out the Manchester Millrats website, manchestermillrats.com.  The Rainmen play the Millrats tonight in Manchester and both teams meet again on February 14th in Halifax.  Thanks again to Ian for participating in our game preview.

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

The Big Payback - RAINMEN 102, CAVALRY 92

RAINMEN 102, CAVALRY 92

Rainmen Record: 4W - 1L

4 in a row.

The Halifax Rainmen got their revenge on the Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry last night at the Halifax Metro Centre defeating the Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry 102-92.  Tony Bennett took over in the final quarter where he scored 12 of his 24 points as Halifax won their fourth game in a row since their lone loss against the Cavs back on January 3rd. 

Halifax came out strong and built a 12-point lead after the opening quarter but quickly went cold in the second as the Cavs got back into the game with a 14-2 run to start the second quarter.  By the half, the Cavs had knocked down the Rainmen's 12-point lead to just three points.  Halifax traded the lead with the Oklahoma team in the third quarter until Halifax closed it out in the final 12 minutes.

Gary "G-Smooth" Ervin, a former NBA D-Leaguer and starting point guard for Halifax, had an impressive performance for the Rainmen, scoring a season-high 18 pts but also pulled down a whopping 16 boards, which was another season-high for the guard.  Desmond Ferguson scored 22 points and drained 5 threes to help the Rainmen raise money for Haiti disaster relief (the team donated $300 for each Rainmen three-pointer from last night's contest).  Halifax made 13 threes which accounted for $3900 going toward the cause.

For the Cavs, Shaun Fountain led the team with 20 points followed by Tim Ellis who scored 17 points.  DeAnthony Bowden, who was the Cavs' leading scorer was held to just 11 points.

Cavs' Michael Ray Richardson was comical to watch from the sidelines as the animated coach made no attempt to ignore the Halifax hecklers.  Richardson kept the spectators entertained as he continued to talk to the crowd (and John Strickland, who played for Richardson with the Albany Patroons) throughout the game.

Shaun "Mavs" Gillis & Ryan Dickison Player of the Game:

Gary Ervin 18 pts, 16 rebounds, 3 assists

Romy Aquino's Player of the Game:

Tony Bennett 24 pts, 6 assists, 5 rebounds

Hat-tip to the Cavs:
Tim Ellis  17 pts, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks

Key Notes:

• Big Boards: With double digit rebounding games from both Ervin (16) and Crookshank (18), Halifax won the rebounding battle 57-40
• Off the Bench:  Halifax stuck mainly with their starters as the Rainmen bench scored just 15pts while the Cavs' bench scored 44 pts
• Droppin' Dimes: The Rainmen starters did a great job sharing the ball, accounting for 17 of the Rainmen's 20 assists
  
• New Faces:  Marc Mazur looks to be fitting in well with his new team, Mazur scored 10 pts as the Rainmen starting center.  DeAndre Thomas (aka "Baby Strick") on the other hand, has yet to make an impression with Halifax.  Thomas had 0 pts, 3 rebounds and 3 fouls in just three minutes of play.
  
• Canadian Watch:  Garry Gallimore scored 4 pts while Jevohn Shepherd dressed but was a DNP
  

Post Game Links:

The Chronicle Herald

"...But Friday night’s victory in front of 3,262 spectators at the Metro Centre was especially sweet, avenging a season-opening road loss to the Cavalry."

Metro Halifax

"Point guard Gary Ervin had another big game, hauling down a whopping 16 rebounds to go along with 18 points, while Eric Crookshank had yet another double-double with 13 points and 18 rebounds. Desmond Ferguson hit four of his five three-pointers in the first quarter en route to a 22-point outing and Marc Mazur logged some key minutes at centre and had 10 points."

PBL.com

"The team also struck 13 three-pointers, good for $300 a piece for Haiti disaster relief, for a total donation of $3,900 by Team Owner Andre Levingston."

Next up:  The Rainmen are on the road for two games.  Once against Manchester (this Sunday) and then again for a game against the undefeated Puerto Rico Capitanes (next Thursday) before returning back home Sunday to face off against Rochester. 

Will the Rainmen go 2-0 on the road? 1-1? 0-2? 

Post your thoughts in the comment section below!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Halifax Rainmen (3-1) vs. Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry (3-1) Game Preview

Halifax Rainmen (3-1) vs. Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry (3-1)

Halifax Metro Centre, Game Time 7:00 pm AST

Live online coverage here on Haligonia.ca!

The Rainmen have a tough test ahead of them, as they face off against the Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry Friday night in Halifax.  Halifax's lone loss came against the Cavalry when they faced off earlier in the season.  This will be the Rainmen's last home game before they head on the road for two games, one against the Manchester Millrats and another against the undefeated Puerto Rico Capitanes.

Halifax played the Cavalry in their home opener when Halifax lost 102-87 in Oklahoma.  The Rainmen struggled from three-point land in that game, where they shot a miserable 4 for 25 from three.  Brandon Dean scored 19 pts and Wayne Marshall scored 18 for the Cavs.

Halifax will look to win their fourth game in a row after defeating the Vermont Frost Heaves 119-109 last Saturday evening.  The Cavs on the other hand,  are fresh off of a loss as they blew their 20-point lead against Puerto Rico, losing 101-94.  It was their first loss of the season.

Keep an eye on...

• Leading scorer:  DeAnthony Bowden 17.2 ppg
• Leading rebounder:  Elvin Mims 6.8 rpg

OTHER RAINMEN NEWS:

• Well here comes more roster moves.... Halifax released centre Gordon Malone and point guard Antwan "Antifreeze" Dobie
• Andre Levington on Malone: “We decided to release Gordon Malone because we needed a more versatile player in that role”
• The Rainmen also traded a 2011 second round draft pick to the Manchester Millrats for 6'7" forward, Marlowe Currie
• Latest tweet on Currie:"Direct quote from Levingston on Currie: “He can step out and hit the three so he’s a mismatch for a lot of other forwards.” (via @metrorainmen)
• Currie was on the PBL All-Playoff Team last season with Halifax's Desmond Ferguson (formerly of Manchester)
• Also, check out Haligonia's Q and A with Halifax's own, Devon Norris
  

Can the Rainmen continue their hot streak against the Cavs?  What do you think of the latest roster changes?  Post your thoughts in the comment section below!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Talkin' Hoops with Halifax Rainmen guard, Devon "Chuck" Norris

Devon Norris is your lone Haligonian on this year's Halifax Rainmen roster.  The 6'3" guard out of Upper Tantallon impressed the Rainmen staff at the Halifax open tryouts back in October, which ultimately led to a Rainmen contract offer.  Norris played basketball for Sir John A. MacDonald in his high school days and then continued his basketball career into university as a Dalhousie Tiger.  I had the opportunity to ask Devon about his Rainmen experience, his thoughts on his teammate, John Strickland, and if he had the chance to introduce the rest of the team to a tasty Halifax favourite.
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Romy (Haligonia.ca): First of all, congratulations on becoming a member of the Halifax Rainmen this season. Up until this point, what has your experience with the team been like?

Devon Norris: Thanks Romy. So far, this whole experience has been very enjoyable. I’m learning so much everyday at practice, and playing at this level of basketball has improved my game so much. There’s a lot of different skills I had to develop quickly in order survive on the court. There’s a great group of guys that make up this team, so on and off the court it’s been a lot of fun, and playing in my home town with the Rainmen has been awesome.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): It must be a great learning experience playing with a bunch of guys who have played hoops over the world. What advice and/or tips have you received from these guys?

Devon Norris: Yeah, most definitely. Everyone on the team has a different story and where they’ve played, and they all have great basketball experience. It’s fun talking to them and hearing their stories from where they’ve played, and some of the experiences they had. I’m always listening to what they have to say in practice too, and trying to learn everyday, and keep pushing myself.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Are there any rookie duties with the Rainmen? Do you have to grab the team's lunch or carry around a Dora the Explorer backpack with the teams' socks?

Devon Norris: Rookie duties? Haha... I’ve been lucky, there hasn’t been anything too crazy happen. They’ll crack jokes here and there, but mostly it’s carrying the basketballs, or the medical bag. Hopefully the vets won’t read this and get some ideas!

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You've played with Sir John A., the Dal Tigers and now the Rainmen. What has been the most memorable moment from your basketball career?

Devon Norris: I have had many memorable moments that come to mind, and it’s hard to pick just one. I’ve met so many great people, and made my closest friends from playing basketball. Playing this game has opened many doors for myself, and I think the whole experience I’ve had has been memorable, and it keeps on getting better and better! After graduating from Dalhousie University I wasn’t sure I’d play any more competitive basketball. When I started thinking about playing again, I was determined to make this team. Being drafted by the Rainmen and getting through training camp and making this team has been memorable for me, as it’s been something I was focused on accomplishing throughout the summer leading up to training camp. (I'd like to win a championship this season with the Rainmen, which would be the most memorable!)

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Is John Strickland as comical in the locker room as he is on the court?

Devon Norris: John Strickland is a great guy. When the lights come on and the crowd is watching he likes to entertain. He’s a great motivator and leader in the locker room and on the bench, and really pushes everyone in practice, and keeps the competitiveness up. Aside from basketball, he is comical in the locker room, but we have a lot of jokers on the team, so there’s very few dull moments when we’re not playing basketball together.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What have been your impressions on the growth of the sport of basketball not only in Halifax but in Canada as a whole? What do you think has sparked this growth?

Devon Norris: I think there’s been many reasons why basketball keeps on getting bigger and bigger in Canada. Some of the most evident reasons which sparked this growth is probably having a Canadian NBA team like the Raptors, and Canadian, Steve Nash having a very successful NBA career. Also, I believe having pro teams like the Halifax Rainmen, and the Quebec Kebs gives Canadian basketball fans a chance to check out a high level of competitive/exciting basketball as well.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Important Question: Have you introduced any of the Rainmen to donairs yet??

Devon Norris: Haha, I actually haven’t had the chance to introduce them to a donair yet. I don’t think I will until we have a day-off, as I don’t think it would be the best pre-game meal!
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A big thanks goes out to Devon for taking a moment to respond to our questions, you can check Devon at the Metro Centre for Halifax Rainmen home games.

Check out previous Rainmen-related Q and A's:

• Adris "2 Hard 2 Guard" DeLeon
• Halifax Rainmen DJ, RS Smooth

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Talkin' Hoops with Halifax Rainmen guard, Adris "2 Hard 2 Guard" DeLeon

The city of Halifax may not know Adris DeLeon yet, but the city of New York already does.  Deleon, who plays the guard position for the Halifax Rainmen, has already established himself on the courts of New York.  Based out of Washington Heights, NY, Adris was originally born in the Dominican Republic and moved to NY as a youngster.  He got his name playing streetball in NY playing with the likes of Ron Artest (watch him put it through Ron Artest's legs), Rafer "Skip to My Lou" Alston and the Rainmen's own, John Strickland.  If you Google Adris DeLeon's name, it's not hard to see that he has earned a name for himself wherever he has played and continues to make his mark with the Halifax Rainmen.

Single ladies of Halifax....you can even win a date with this guy. 

In the Rainmen's home opener against the Quebec Kebs, DeLeon led all scorers with 23 points and did it all in just 17 minutes of play.  I had the chance to ask Adris about the origins of his nickname, his mentor as a young ball player and what music is currently on his iPod.
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Romy (Haligonia.ca): So, what have been your first impressions with the city of Halifax? 

Adris DeLeon:  The first impression that I have of Halifax is that it's crazy cold out here. But no, it seems like the people are good supporters of the sport and the team, and they are very friendly towards others.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): The team has had an impressive start to the season, why do you think the Rainmen have been so successful thus far?

Adris DeLeon:  It's still early to predict what's going to happen. But the good thing that's happening to us is that we are finding ourselves. I think we really improve each game we play because of the older guys helping the younger players.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Your nickname is "2 Hard 2 Guard", what's the story behind the nickname?

Adris DeLeon:  My nickname, huh? haha... It's a long story but I started playing street ball for a while and because of street ball I had a chance to go to college. I never played high school ball and they saw me play in the park and decided to help me with school even though I only played AAU basketball.  My nickname came from playing outside against a lot of big time players, and I played really well against them. For the last couple minutes of one game, I was playing at the highest level. Every shot was dropping, I was driving, I was passing, and the people were like "he's hard to guard" and from that day on "2 hard 2 guard" came along, and since that day I've made sure I represent that name everywhere I go.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Who has been the toughest player you've had to play against?

Adris DeLeon: I've played against a lot of great players from big colleges and big time NBA players. But I can say Ron Artest and Kyle Lowry from the Houston Rockets were crazy but I held my own. But there's been other players in New York that have been tough match ups too, but that people might not know.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  You were born in the Dominican Republic, how often do you go back to the D.R.?

Adris DeLeon: I was born out there and I came to New York when I was like 10 years old. So since then my family always goes, but most of the time I stay in NY because of summer ball or traveling for AAU and college ball. I've been out there to try out for the national team and it was a good experience for me to be picked to come try out. But I only go out there for basketball, but hopefully I can go soon and enjoy it and try to see my old friends and my family, especially my grandparents.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): How bad do you miss the hot weather when you're in places like New York and Halifax?

Adris DeLeon:  I miss it because I'm scared of the cold but that’s all.

Romy (Haligonia.ca):  Growing up in New York, who did you look up to when you were a young basketball player?

Adris DeLeon:  In New York, I looked up to my parents that raised me with manners and kept our family close. My father used to get on me to make sure I always do the right thing. My mom would get mad because she doesn’t like when people scream at me but I'm a momma's boy so yeah, lol... But I'm really proud of my parents and the job they did, and my brother and sister also did well following their lead . But towards basketball I really think I love watching Ray Allen play, even though he's a little older now, and Penny Hardaway. But a close friend that I've seen become successful with basketball has been Luis Flores. He played in college and went to the NBA and we're from the same neighborhood and I respect that man because I've seen him work hard for everything he has.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): What's songs/artists are on your iPod right now?

Adris DeLeon:  Song on my iPod...a lot of Spanish music, reggaeton, bachata and R and B, but you know you need to have Jay-Z to get you pumped up for the game...haha

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Shoutouts go out to Adris for taking the time out of his schedule to answer our questions, check out Adris' website adrisdeleon.com and also watch him live here in Halifax at the Halifax Rainmen home games.

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Big Buckets in the Final Minutes Lead to Halifax Win - RAINMEN 119, FROST HEAVES 109

RAINMEN 119, FROST HEAVES 109

Rainmen Record: 3W-1L

A big bucket from Gary "G Smooth" Ervin last night helped seal the tight game between the Halifax Rainmen and the Vermont Frost Heaves at the Halifax Metro Centre.  The arch rivals went bucket for bucket up until the last few minutes in regulation when leading scorer Tony Bennett and Gary Ervin made some clutch baskets.  Saturday was also the debut of Rainmen's newest faces, Marc Mazur, DeAndre Thomas and Antwan "Antifreeze" Dobie.  Marc Mazur got the start at centre and put up 14 pts and 5 rebounds in 32 minutes of play.

Both teams shot the ball well, shooting 55+% from the field.  Vermont's Troy Jackson and Jawan Bailey helped keep the game competitive and combined for 42 of Vermont's 109 points.

For the Rainmen, Tony Bennett had an impressive night, slashing to the basket at every opportunity he could.  Tony Bennett finished with 28 points on 10 of 20 shooting.  Desmond "Moneyball" Ferguson was money with the three ball as well, nailing six threes.

The Halifax Rainmen and Rogers (sponsor of the Halifax Rainmen) helped raise $23,800 for Haiti disaster relief efforts as the communications company donated $200 for each Rainmen point scored last night.

Shaun "Mavs" Gillis and Ryan Dickison's Player of the Game

Desmond Ferguson - 23 pts, 6 threes, 5 rebounds and 4 steals

Romy Aquino's Player of the Game

Eric Crookshank - 22 pts, 15 rebounds, 4 assists

Hat-tip to the Frost Heaves

Jawan Bailey - 23 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, 1 steal

Key Notes:

• Halifax shot an impressive 61.8% from the field
• Balanced scoring effort from the Frost Heaves as they had six players in double figures
• How the New Faces Performed: Mazur - 14 pts, Dobie - 2 pts, Thomas - 2 pts
• Vermont shot well from the FT line, shooting 82.8%
• The Bench: Vermont outscored the Halifax bench 53-17
• Vermont turned the ball over 16 times to Halifax's 12 turnovers
• New Nicknames: The Halifax crowd came up with a few nicknames for the new faces, there were chants of  "New White Guy" for Marc Mazur and "Baby Strick" for DeAndre Thomas
• The Halifax crowd also donned the nickname "Encino Man" to Ross DeMassi of Vermont due to his resemblance to Pauly Shore
• Canadian Watch:  Garry Gallimore was the only Canuck in action, he finished with 1 pt and 2 rebounds.

Next up, the Rainmen take on the Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry this Friday evening, tune in to Haligonia.ca for live online coverage!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Halifax Rainmen Add Three New Faces

Andre Levingston wasted no time in signing new players to the team. After releasing centers, Shagari Alleyne and Cory Underwood, three new players will join the Rainmen roster this week.  The Rainmen have signed centers, DeAndre Thomas and Marc Mazur along with point guard, Antwan “Antifreeze” Dobie and all three will make their Rainmen debut on Saturday against Vermont.

Here’s the mini scouting report on the new players (with information from the Halifax Rainmen):

Antwan “Antifreeze” Dobie

• 6’0” Point Guard
• NY, NY: Another New Yorker joining the team
• Dobie is a streetballer out of NY, he once put up 88 points in two games in the Nike Tournament of Champions in NY
• Recently played in Argentina for Club Lanus
• Cory Underwood (recently released Rainmen player) says that his cousin, Antwan, is a "great leader, quick, shoots the euro 3 very well, a true leader & has great court vision...he can score 30, 40 pts if needed..."
• Coach Les Berry says: “Dobie is a smart point guard who passes the ball very well and is good at finding the open man. We will activate him Saturday night to get a better look,”

DeAndre Thomas

• 6’8” Center, 320 lbs
• Hometown: Chicago, IL
• Played for the Indiana Hoosiers
• Recently played for the Chicago Steam of the ABA
• Good scorer down low
• Levingston: “Thomas, who currently is working hard on his physical conditioning, is a powerhouse who will make a big impact once he’s in top form. We feel he can be the best big man in the league,”

Marc Mazur

• 6’10” Center, 264 lbs
• Born in Pontiac, MI
• Only started playing ball at 19 years of age
• Good defender, rebounder and can shoot the ball
• Played for the Manchester Millrats last season
• Also, played with the Fayetteville Patriots of the NBA D-League and won a championship
• Levingston: “Mazur is just a very smart player who brings toughness and energy,”

Halifax faces off against the Vermont Frost Heaves on Saturday evening, be sure to check out Haligonia.ca for live online coverage!

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino

Rainmen-Frost Heaves Preview with Vermont Head Coach, Jeff Strohm

The 3-1 Halifax Rainmen face off against the 0-2 Vermont Frost Heaves this Saturday evening at the Metro Centre. The Frost Heaves are under the new head coach guidance of Jeff Strohm, who has replaced last year's head coach Will Voigt.   Strohm, who has a remarkable coaching resume has been an assistant at a few great NCAA schools including Northern Illinois, Utah, Marquette and Western Kentucky. 

Jeff's Frost Heaves squad have started their regular season schedule on the road and will not have their home opener until February 2nd when they face off against Manchester.  I had the opportunity to ask Jeff about his game plan for Saturday, his thoughts on his predecessor Will Voigt and his experience of coaching one of today's NBA All-Stars.
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Romy (Haligonia.ca): Vermont had the opportunity to play Halifax in the preseason back in December. Based on what you have seen from Halifax, what will be your game plan be for Saturday's matchup?

Jeff Strohm: They [Halifax] are really talented and deep at every position. We are currently putting together our game plan. The biggest thing is we hope we can slow down their tremendous transition.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Who on your Vermont team is going to cause the most problems for Halifax?

Jeff Strohm: Not really sure, due to the fact injuries have caused us to make many changes to our roster. Due to injuries, we had only 30 minutes of practice with our entire team present.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): Let's hear a little about the new faces on your team, Benson Callier and Josh Dollard. How are they going to help Vermont this season?

Jeff Strohm: Benson we hope provides experience and leadership. Josh we hope provides strength, rebounding and athletic play.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You replaced former Frost Heaves coach, Will Voigt, who made the move up to a coaching position with the NBA D-League. With Voigt's move up from the PBL to the D-League, in your opinion, how much of a positive impact will this have on the PBL?

Jeff Strohm: Anytime there is growth and progress it has to be great for the league. Knowing coach Voigt as a personal friend, I know he was and will continue to be a great ambassador for the league.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): You have had the opportunity to coach at some great NCAA Division I schools including Marquette, what was it like having worked with NBA all-star, Dwyane Wade?

Jeff Strohm: "DWade" as we called him was fun to coach, like the other 10+ guys I have coached who have or are currently playing in the NBA. He wanted to be coached and taught everyday and had a great love for the game.

Romy (Haligonia.ca): First impressions on the city of Halifax?

Jeff Strohm: We were only in town for a few hours so all we saw was the hotel and the gym but have heard it is a very good place.
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A huge thanks goes out to Jeff Strohm for taking the time to respond to our questions. He also encourages readers to check out http://www.nucdf.org/ which is a foundation for the National Urea Cycle Disorder. His two daughters suffer from the rare, life altering disorder.

Romy Aquino covers the pro basketball game (the Canadian Flavour of the NBA, the PBL's Halifax Rainmen) from a fan's perspective.  He also can be found at NBA hoops blogs, Hip Hoop Junkies (A Member of TheScore.com's Sports Federation) and Hoop Heads North.  Follow him on Twitter: @romyaquino