Wow! Who knew a government employee could be so busy? The past five months have flown by, although I recognize that I haven't posted on here since May.
Just got home from a great Rainmen victory, over previously undefeated Rochester Razor Sharks. What is a Razor Shark anyway?
The Rainmen have really developed into a great team this year. They are scoring and defending well, although there are lapses in their play that sometimes allow opponents to stay in the game.
Just a quick post, will add more later!
Showing posts with label Rainmen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rainmen. Show all posts
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Is Halifax ready for the D-League?
Some highlights from the Ridiculous Upside interview with Dan Reed, the president of the D-League:
D-League President Dan Reed: Well, if you go overseas you basically eliminate your chances of playing in the NBA that season, so if your goal is to make the NBA your odds are much better playing with us. I asked our folks to run these numbers for me, a - of the 107 players who have been called up to the NBA in a given season, 61% of them (65 players) received a guaranteed contract that season. I actually think these numbers are pretty compelling reasons to play in the NBA D-League, when you consider that: a) even one NBA 10-day contract is worth as much or more than a player can make in a month overseas, b) if you get one 10-day it’s highly likely you will double your money with at least one additional 10-day, and c) if you do get a 10-day there’s a 60% chance you’ll be with that team for the rest of the season, and d) you have a zero percent chance of being “called up” to the NBA if you play overseas.
…
DR: That’s why I think the best number to look at is the sheer number of NBA D-League alumni playing in the NBA, and by that metric, we clearly establish ourselves as the absolute best way to get to the NBA — we’ve produced five times more NBA players than any other professional basketball league in the world. We’re the most heavily scouted league in the world, and that is extremely valuable for our players. If you really want to look at odds, check out this stat: if you played in the NBA D-League last season you had a 1 in 4 chance of participating in an NBA team’s training camp the following season. I’d say those odds are pretty good. And even if after all that the NBA simply doesn’t work out for player, showing well in the NBA D-League allows you maximize your earning potential no matter where you decide to play.
…
RS: It seems to me that if each NBA team had their own D-League affiliate, and was able to call up, send down, and rehab players on their D-League teams, much like the farm system of Major League Baseball, that the NBA and the NBADL would both benefit tremendously. Are the leagues making any attempt toward moving in that direction?
DR: We took a major step towards that sort of system when we created the affiliation and assignment system back in 2005. Since then we’ve doubled the number of teams in the league, have seen 104 NBA players “sent down” and recalled to/from their NBA team, and have had 59 additional players called-up to the NBA. As a result we now have close to 80 former NBA D-League players on NBA rosters right now, which is getting close to 20% of the entire league!
…
D-League president Dan Reed’s checklist for prospective affiliates, from the RU interview:
- a great arena
- strong ownership
- a good market
- market size
- competition
- income levels
- size of corporate base
- basketball fan avidity
Can a PBL team move to the D-League? Looking at Dan Reed's checklist, I think Halifax qualifies.
- We play in a 10,000 seat arena, average about 2,800 fans this past season (1,800 in the first season in the ABA),
- population of 400,000 in the immediate area and draw from another 100,000+ within an hour of Halifax,
- we have 2 university teams in the city and another within 2 hours of Halifax that are usually nationally ranked so we are basketball fans,
- Halifax is a government town so income levels are good and steady,
- the only live pro sport competition is a major junior league hockey team that shares the arena with us.
As for the other current PBL teams, most of their markets are too small to support a D-League team, because of the $1,000,000 franchise fee, versus $10,000 or $20,000 for ABA, depending on your source. I don't know the cost of a franchise in the PBL, but I bet it is closer to $20,000 than a million.
Halifax is unique in that we are a good-size small city with a suitable arena to support a D-League team, rather than many PBL teams who play in much smaller venues. With Maine and Springfield in the NBADL, along with Erie, we could fit into a Northeast division quite easily, flying through Boston or Toronto.
D-League President Dan Reed: Well, if you go overseas you basically eliminate your chances of playing in the NBA that season, so if your goal is to make the NBA your odds are much better playing with us. I asked our folks to run these numbers for me, a - of the 107 players who have been called up to the NBA in a given season, 61% of them (65 players) received a guaranteed contract that season. I actually think these numbers are pretty compelling reasons to play in the NBA D-League, when you consider that: a) even one NBA 10-day contract is worth as much or more than a player can make in a month overseas, b) if you get one 10-day it’s highly likely you will double your money with at least one additional 10-day, and c) if you do get a 10-day there’s a 60% chance you’ll be with that team for the rest of the season, and d) you have a zero percent chance of being “called up” to the NBA if you play overseas.
…
DR: That’s why I think the best number to look at is the sheer number of NBA D-League alumni playing in the NBA, and by that metric, we clearly establish ourselves as the absolute best way to get to the NBA — we’ve produced five times more NBA players than any other professional basketball league in the world. We’re the most heavily scouted league in the world, and that is extremely valuable for our players. If you really want to look at odds, check out this stat: if you played in the NBA D-League last season you had a 1 in 4 chance of participating in an NBA team’s training camp the following season. I’d say those odds are pretty good. And even if after all that the NBA simply doesn’t work out for player, showing well in the NBA D-League allows you maximize your earning potential no matter where you decide to play.
…
RS: It seems to me that if each NBA team had their own D-League affiliate, and was able to call up, send down, and rehab players on their D-League teams, much like the farm system of Major League Baseball, that the NBA and the NBADL would both benefit tremendously. Are the leagues making any attempt toward moving in that direction?
DR: We took a major step towards that sort of system when we created the affiliation and assignment system back in 2005. Since then we’ve doubled the number of teams in the league, have seen 104 NBA players “sent down” and recalled to/from their NBA team, and have had 59 additional players called-up to the NBA. As a result we now have close to 80 former NBA D-League players on NBA rosters right now, which is getting close to 20% of the entire league!
…
D-League president Dan Reed’s checklist for prospective affiliates, from the RU interview:
- a great arena
- strong ownership
- a good market
- market size
- competition
- income levels
- size of corporate base
- basketball fan avidity
Can a PBL team move to the D-League? Looking at Dan Reed's checklist, I think Halifax qualifies.
- We play in a 10,000 seat arena, average about 2,800 fans this past season (1,800 in the first season in the ABA),
- population of 400,000 in the immediate area and draw from another 100,000+ within an hour of Halifax,
- we have 2 university teams in the city and another within 2 hours of Halifax that are usually nationally ranked so we are basketball fans,
- Halifax is a government town so income levels are good and steady,
- the only live pro sport competition is a major junior league hockey team that shares the arena with us.
As for the other current PBL teams, most of their markets are too small to support a D-League team, because of the $1,000,000 franchise fee, versus $10,000 or $20,000 for ABA, depending on your source. I don't know the cost of a franchise in the PBL, but I bet it is closer to $20,000 than a million.
Halifax is unique in that we are a good-size small city with a suitable arena to support a D-League team, rather than many PBL teams who play in much smaller venues. With Maine and Springfield in the NBADL, along with Erie, we could fit into a Northeast division quite easily, flying through Boston or Toronto.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Will Halifax Rainmen's AJ Milien Win MVP?
AJ Milien, a mid-season signing for the Rainmen, formerly of the August Groove, where he pretty much was the offence, must be in the running for Premier Basketball League MVP for the 2009 season. However, there is talk that he may not win it since he has not been the dominant power since joining the Rainmen. I say that being the MVP on a losing team does not mean you are better than a role player on a great team.
Here are the 10 most recent NBA MVP’s and their team records:
2007-08 Kobe Bryant L.A. Lakers - lost NBA finals
2006-07 Dirk Nowitzki Dallas Mavs - won division, top conf. record
2005-06 Steve Nash Phoenix Suns - West Conference runner-up
2004-05 Steve Nash Phoenix Suns - West Conference runner-up
2003-04 Kevin Garnett Minnesota T’Wolves - West Conference RU
2002-03 Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs - NBA Champs
2001-02 Tim Duncan Spurs - won div.,2nd-best record in NBA
2000-01 Allen Iverson Philadelphia 76′ers - lost NBA Finals
1999-00 Shaquille O’Neal L.A. Lakers - NBA Champs
1998-99 Karl Malone Utah Jazz - tied for div., best league record
As you can see, players who win the MVP do it on strong teams that either win their division with the best conference or league win-loss record, or they go deep in the playoffs. Augusta would not have accomplished either of those feats. Even with AJ, they were 5-4. As of today, they are 9-9.
For the MVP, I think AJ is still in the running, depending on how much time he gets and how well he performs during the last 3 games in Halifax.
AJ leads the league in points per game - even with Halifax games included, he sinks over 60% of his 2-pointers (which is good for a scorer in this league), over 80% from the FT line, averages 10 rebounds a game, and is 4th in the league in blocks (and the only player with more than 20 ppg with over 1 block per game - BTW, Eric and Bailey are #5 & 6 on the blocks list.)
Cedric McGinnis of the Sea Dawgs has to be in the consideration for MVP and so does White Chocolate, although he is kind of the guard version of AJ - outstanding player who gets crazy minutes on a so-so team.
Rochester and Battle Creek might each have a guy, but they seem to have a bunch of Steady Eddies on those teams, with no super-dominant player, just a good bunch of starters who get the job done.
Here are the 10 most recent NBA MVP’s and their team records:
2007-08 Kobe Bryant L.A. Lakers - lost NBA finals
2006-07 Dirk Nowitzki Dallas Mavs - won division, top conf. record
2005-06 Steve Nash Phoenix Suns - West Conference runner-up
2004-05 Steve Nash Phoenix Suns - West Conference runner-up
2003-04 Kevin Garnett Minnesota T’Wolves - West Conference RU
2002-03 Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs - NBA Champs
2001-02 Tim Duncan Spurs - won div.,2nd-best record in NBA
2000-01 Allen Iverson Philadelphia 76′ers - lost NBA Finals
1999-00 Shaquille O’Neal L.A. Lakers - NBA Champs
1998-99 Karl Malone Utah Jazz - tied for div., best league record
As you can see, players who win the MVP do it on strong teams that either win their division with the best conference or league win-loss record, or they go deep in the playoffs. Augusta would not have accomplished either of those feats. Even with AJ, they were 5-4. As of today, they are 9-9.
For the MVP, I think AJ is still in the running, depending on how much time he gets and how well he performs during the last 3 games in Halifax.
AJ leads the league in points per game - even with Halifax games included, he sinks over 60% of his 2-pointers (which is good for a scorer in this league), over 80% from the FT line, averages 10 rebounds a game, and is 4th in the league in blocks (and the only player with more than 20 ppg with over 1 block per game - BTW, Eric and Bailey are #5 & 6 on the blocks list.)
Cedric McGinnis of the Sea Dawgs has to be in the consideration for MVP and so does White Chocolate, although he is kind of the guard version of AJ - outstanding player who gets crazy minutes on a so-so team.
Rochester and Battle Creek might each have a guy, but they seem to have a bunch of Steady Eddies on those teams, with no super-dominant player, just a good bunch of starters who get the job done.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Rainmen lost a Heartbreaker to Vermont, 100-98
Strick was doing a passable impression of Rob Sanders, getting under the net and drawing fouls. Unfortunately, he was only 25% from the line.
Crook and Jeanty both had double-doubles, but Eric did not have a good night for free throws.
That is the story of the game: decent performances but not enough, especially from the line. Since Vermont was giving us lots of chances for charity points, maybe we should have sent AJ, Tony and Brian (who shot 14-18, including AJ's 5-5 from the line vs. Strick and Crook who were 3-18) to the hoop more to draw fouls. Just an amateur's opinion.
I am not sure why AJ only got 14 minutes, other than we are full of 4's and kinda 5's, so coach has to make a decision about who gets the minutes. Certainly, AJ was the best player on the Groove (which goes back to my thoughts about the best player on a poor team), but he should have a place here in Halifax. AJ was scoring 31 points a game while playing and average 37 minutes in Augusta, 10 more points average than Randy Gill, with the same playing time. AJ has talent, we need to fit him into the system.
Hammack must feel like the third person on a date, since Jimmy, Tony and Zach have been filling up the backcourt since Coach Berry's arrival. Once again, lots of talent at the 1 and 2, too many guys to fill the spots.
I wish our team was more balanced (so much for Lewis as a GM). I think the old way of recruiting for the Rainmen was, "He's good, let's sign him," with not a lot of thought about the existing make-up of the team. Look at the official website (which needs updating BTW. No mention of Berry and Sanders is still on the team): We are stacked with power forwards and what we really need are a centre who will mix it up and push his way around and a second shooter behind Silverhorn.
Either we need to work with the guys who are already on the roster at those positions (Tyronne and Glen) or we need to get replacements. At this point in the season, it is probably too late, but we need to address team balance next season.
Crook and Jeanty both had double-doubles, but Eric did not have a good night for free throws.
That is the story of the game: decent performances but not enough, especially from the line. Since Vermont was giving us lots of chances for charity points, maybe we should have sent AJ, Tony and Brian (who shot 14-18, including AJ's 5-5 from the line vs. Strick and Crook who were 3-18) to the hoop more to draw fouls. Just an amateur's opinion.
I am not sure why AJ only got 14 minutes, other than we are full of 4's and kinda 5's, so coach has to make a decision about who gets the minutes. Certainly, AJ was the best player on the Groove (which goes back to my thoughts about the best player on a poor team), but he should have a place here in Halifax. AJ was scoring 31 points a game while playing and average 37 minutes in Augusta, 10 more points average than Randy Gill, with the same playing time. AJ has talent, we need to fit him into the system.
Hammack must feel like the third person on a date, since Jimmy, Tony and Zach have been filling up the backcourt since Coach Berry's arrival. Once again, lots of talent at the 1 and 2, too many guys to fill the spots.
I wish our team was more balanced (so much for Lewis as a GM). I think the old way of recruiting for the Rainmen was, "He's good, let's sign him," with not a lot of thought about the existing make-up of the team. Look at the official website (which needs updating BTW. No mention of Berry and Sanders is still on the team): We are stacked with power forwards and what we really need are a centre who will mix it up and push his way around and a second shooter behind Silverhorn.
Either we need to work with the guys who are already on the roster at those positions (Tyronne and Glen) or we need to get replacements. At this point in the season, it is probably too late, but we need to address team balance next season.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Rainmen Ticket Prices
Interesting article in the March 2 issue of Canadian Business: “All Seats Must Go”. The subtitle is “Slashing ticket prices in the short term may attract more fans, but not in the long run.” The article by Andy Holloway is about the NHL, but I think it is relevant for all pro sports teams, especially in today’s economic climate. A lengthy excerpt:
“The NHL, unlike North America’s other three big sports leagues, doesn’t have a lucrative television deal. It’s still a ticket-driven business, with roughly 55% of revenue coming from getting paying bums in seats, so the temptation will be to cut prices if people stop going to the games. But while lowering prices midway through the season — or offering special deals, such as free concessions, parking or merchandise — might attract some, it could also adversely affect the team’s existing relationship with season ticket-holders or fans who bought tickets in advance. ‘You have to keep the integrity of season tickets’, says Doug MacLean, a former NHL general manager and currently an analyst on Sportsnet’s ‘Hockeycentral Tonight’.”
“Someone who has plunked down $25,000 for a pair of season tickets isn’t going to be happy when he starts to realize his seat neighbour is paying far less. The security of having tickets to the big games in advance only goes so far. Not only that, the number of annual paying customers is a key metric for improving other revenue streams. ‘The value of the ticket is very important in selling your franchise to corporate sponsors and radio and television,’ says MacLean.”
“Then again, if the number of empty seats continues to grow, concession sales suffer and corporate sponsors may start wondering why they’re spending any money at the arena at all.”
These are all points that have been brought up over the past season. Ticket price integrity is important to season ticket-holders. While the Rainmen front office has been responsive to some ideas, such as including season ticket-holders in BOGO, this article may give them some food for thought.
“The NHL, unlike North America’s other three big sports leagues, doesn’t have a lucrative television deal. It’s still a ticket-driven business, with roughly 55% of revenue coming from getting paying bums in seats, so the temptation will be to cut prices if people stop going to the games. But while lowering prices midway through the season — or offering special deals, such as free concessions, parking or merchandise — might attract some, it could also adversely affect the team’s existing relationship with season ticket-holders or fans who bought tickets in advance. ‘You have to keep the integrity of season tickets’, says Doug MacLean, a former NHL general manager and currently an analyst on Sportsnet’s ‘Hockeycentral Tonight’.”
“Someone who has plunked down $25,000 for a pair of season tickets isn’t going to be happy when he starts to realize his seat neighbour is paying far less. The security of having tickets to the big games in advance only goes so far. Not only that, the number of annual paying customers is a key metric for improving other revenue streams. ‘The value of the ticket is very important in selling your franchise to corporate sponsors and radio and television,’ says MacLean.”
“Then again, if the number of empty seats continues to grow, concession sales suffer and corporate sponsors may start wondering why they’re spending any money at the arena at all.”
These are all points that have been brought up over the past season. Ticket price integrity is important to season ticket-holders. While the Rainmen front office has been responsive to some ideas, such as including season ticket-holders in BOGO, this article may give them some food for thought.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Goodbye Rob, Hello AJ!
The Rainmen defeated the Detroit Panthers last night, 100-89. If not for us losing one of the best players in the PBL and Detroit snagging one of the other best players in the league, this would have been a 20-30 point win, not an 11-point win. As for Randy Gill (ex of the Montreal Sasquatch), this was one time where the fans actually got into his head and he started blowing it, as did his teammates. I use that term loosely, because they were yelling at each other in almost every huddle at the bench. Gill does not seem to be a happy person, maybe his sunshine-y spirit is catching and the team will spiral even further down from here. I suspect Gill will regret signing with that team. If he becomes available, please please please DO NOT SIGN GILL!
Another player who was the whole team, ex-Augusta Groove forward AJ Milien is another Patriots-inspired signing. He took us to school in the pre-season, so when he became available, we signed him. Well done, Andre!
I just hope we don’t end up with an embarrassment of riches. We are almost at that point anyway. What I mean is we have so many talented players that not all of them get the minutes they deserve and they would get the minutes if they were on a weaker team. The result can be player frustration as well as losing their edge. Coach Berry has more to teach these guys than just X’s-and-O’s.
The best Rainmen players are probably used to being the best guy on the floor with any previous team they were on, now they are part of an ensemble cast, and egos may take a bit of a beating. Unless the players take on the New England Patriot mindset that it’s all about winning a championship but not necessarily being the guy with the most minutes, then we may see some defections to other teams where they can be the star, with the hope of being discovered.
IMO, a player has a better chance of being discovered by playing on a good team than being the standout on a poor team. It’s easy to be the best player on a crap team. Who do you have more respect for: Randy Moss or Chad Ocho Cinco? Randy is on a great team (Patriots) and plays well for them. Chad is on a perennial stinker of a team (Bengals) and doesn’t play well, despite his talent, because his teammates aren’t up to the task of matching his play. Sorry for the football references, but I follow the NFL more than I do the NBA.
Another player who was the whole team, ex-Augusta Groove forward AJ Milien is another Patriots-inspired signing. He took us to school in the pre-season, so when he became available, we signed him. Well done, Andre!
I just hope we don’t end up with an embarrassment of riches. We are almost at that point anyway. What I mean is we have so many talented players that not all of them get the minutes they deserve and they would get the minutes if they were on a weaker team. The result can be player frustration as well as losing their edge. Coach Berry has more to teach these guys than just X’s-and-O’s.
The best Rainmen players are probably used to being the best guy on the floor with any previous team they were on, now they are part of an ensemble cast, and egos may take a bit of a beating. Unless the players take on the New England Patriot mindset that it’s all about winning a championship but not necessarily being the guy with the most minutes, then we may see some defections to other teams where they can be the star, with the hope of being discovered.
IMO, a player has a better chance of being discovered by playing on a good team than being the standout on a poor team. It’s easy to be the best player on a crap team. Who do you have more respect for: Randy Moss or Chad Ocho Cinco? Randy is on a great team (Patriots) and plays well for them. Chad is on a perennial stinker of a team (Bengals) and doesn’t play well, despite his talent, because his teammates aren’t up to the task of matching his play. Sorry for the football references, but I follow the NFL more than I do the NBA.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Thoughts on the Rainmen's Schedule and Venue
Some other fans have brought up a couple ideas for the Rainmen, namely more games (3 a week) and a change of venue (Halifax Forum or Dartmouth Sportsplex). While I like the idea of more games in the same time frame, 3 games a week is too many for me as a fan. I have a life to live and a family to raise (not to mention the activities my kids are in), so there is no way I could commit to going 3 times a week, every week. Besides the time commitment, the cost of my 4 season ticket seats 3 times a week would get very expensive and I can’t see anyone buying season tickets for that intense a schedule, for this level of basketball. Not meaning the level of play is not worth the ticket price, but for our family, $300+ per week would add up pretty quick. I think you would have a lot more fan turnover, which increases the chances of fans not returning. That is why most sports franchises give discounts plus a lot of perks to their season ticket holders, because they are guaranteed sales.
Last season’s schedule was great: 18 home games over a few months gives fans a chance to schedule the Rainmen into their lives. 10 games, with breaks of a few weeks in between home stands, is too short. Just think how successful the Rainmen business could have been if we would have another 8 home games this year, with average attendance up like 50% from last season?
As for Metro Centre vs. another venue, we have already talked about this in Section 22/23. The Metro Centre has got to be the place. We are doing well attendance-wise and this will only increase, with a solid coach and more player talent than last season. If the Rainmen could handle the venue costs through the hardest part of establishing the team’s identity, it would be a mistake to now go to a smaller venue.
The Forum and Sportsplex are a big step down, as venues go, not just in size but in appearance, amenities, and overall feel. If we want the Rainmen to fail, send them to either of these places. A lot of people in Halifax will not go to Dartmouth — don’t get me started on that issue — and the Forum is so decrepit that a lot of people wouldn’t go there either, especially at current ticket prices. I know the team would save money, but at what cost? If we had started in the Forum and moved up to the Metro Centre this year, that would be one thing, but I honestly cannot see the long-term benefits of moving to a smaller location, especially if the D-League is a real goal for the Rainmen. For a city of 400,000, we should be able to put 4,000+ people in the stands every game. That is the difference between us and most other PBL teams: we have the population base to be very successful, once the public learns about the Rainmen. With Coach Berry and this year’s crop of players, we have the capability to really grow.
Last season’s schedule was great: 18 home games over a few months gives fans a chance to schedule the Rainmen into their lives. 10 games, with breaks of a few weeks in between home stands, is too short. Just think how successful the Rainmen business could have been if we would have another 8 home games this year, with average attendance up like 50% from last season?
As for Metro Centre vs. another venue, we have already talked about this in Section 22/23. The Metro Centre has got to be the place. We are doing well attendance-wise and this will only increase, with a solid coach and more player talent than last season. If the Rainmen could handle the venue costs through the hardest part of establishing the team’s identity, it would be a mistake to now go to a smaller venue.
The Forum and Sportsplex are a big step down, as venues go, not just in size but in appearance, amenities, and overall feel. If we want the Rainmen to fail, send them to either of these places. A lot of people in Halifax will not go to Dartmouth — don’t get me started on that issue — and the Forum is so decrepit that a lot of people wouldn’t go there either, especially at current ticket prices. I know the team would save money, but at what cost? If we had started in the Forum and moved up to the Metro Centre this year, that would be one thing, but I honestly cannot see the long-term benefits of moving to a smaller location, especially if the D-League is a real goal for the Rainmen. For a city of 400,000, we should be able to put 4,000+ people in the stands every game. That is the difference between us and most other PBL teams: we have the population base to be very successful, once the public learns about the Rainmen. With Coach Berry and this year’s crop of players, we have the capability to really grow.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Rainmen Ticket Prices
Last Sunday's game features $5 tickets for children, resulting in an attendance of 4,012 -- the largest since our team's inaugural game. I think it is smart to have cheap seats for kids, say age 12 and under, because it gets them in the building. Once they are inside, they spend way more than the difference in the seat price in concessions and maybe even Rainmen gear. Plus, as cigarette advertisers know, get consumers’ loyalty while they are young and you have a better chance of keeping their loyalty for years.
One other thing, season ticket holders should not be paying 24% more than someone walking in off the street. I hope the front office looks into that for the coming season. I don’t mind paying as much as a single ticket buyer if there are benefits, but this is one area that the organization is a bit behind the curve. The meet & greet with the players before the season was a good start, but there needs to be more attention paid to this.
The Rainmen should offer cheaper season tickets and more meaningful benefits to faithful fans. The benefits don’t have to cost a lot.
A few ideas:
- Include season ticket holders in the 2-for-1 nights, or give them a free ticket near their season seats for one game to invite a friend and maybe get that new person to buy season tickets next year. I brought 2 friends last year who ended up buying 3 seats this year. It works.
- 1 free piece of Rainmen gear, either T-shirt or hat, or half-price hoodie, for every season ticket seat as well as discounts on additional purchases of Rainmen gear. This is probably the best way to increase the Rainmen’s visibility, especially among kids who would wear them to school, not to mention making the stands look Rainmen blue. Watch US college or major league sports and the stands that are full of fans wearing their team’s colours make a difference. It’s all about the fan’s sense of belonging to the team and building their loyalty, not to mention the psychological power it would have on the visiting teams.
- More season-ticket-holder-only events. These don’t have to be expensive, and if there was a cost to attend, keep it under $10/person and provide value for that money. Better options would be the “Season Ticket Holder Experience” events that don’t cost anything, like an afternoon with the Rainmen where kids would have some court time with the players. How cool would that be?
- A free program! I bought programs every game last year, despite having virtually no new information in each issue. This year, I can’t even find someone who sells them. I think a free program for season ticket holders is a cheap way to keep them informed during the games.
- Your seats guaranteed, available to buy for playoffs. This goes without saying.
- Ticket exchange privileges: if you can’t make a game, you can switch tickets for extras to a game you can attend.
- A ticket donation program to get unused tickets into the hands of deserving children and charities and give the season ticket holder a tax deduction. I have not used all of my tickets and it is a shame that the seats go unused.
- Discounts on purchases from team sponsors. This is a win-win situation, increasing visibility for companies as sponsors of the Rainmen and helping their corporate citizen image.
- How about free face painting for season ticket holders before the games? Let’s get creative here!
- A sit-in session with new Coach Les Berry, in a Chalk Talk event? I know a lot of people who post on here would love to get an “insider” appreciation for Coach Berry’s strategies.
- Honorary Ball Kid. Have a lottery to choose season ticket holding children to be able to rebound balls for the Rainmen during pre-game warmups.
Most of these are essentially free or very low cost to the team and would add significantly to the “Season Ticket Holder Experience.”
One other thing, season ticket holders should not be paying 24% more than someone walking in off the street. I hope the front office looks into that for the coming season. I don’t mind paying as much as a single ticket buyer if there are benefits, but this is one area that the organization is a bit behind the curve. The meet & greet with the players before the season was a good start, but there needs to be more attention paid to this.
The Rainmen should offer cheaper season tickets and more meaningful benefits to faithful fans. The benefits don’t have to cost a lot.
A few ideas:
- Include season ticket holders in the 2-for-1 nights, or give them a free ticket near their season seats for one game to invite a friend and maybe get that new person to buy season tickets next year. I brought 2 friends last year who ended up buying 3 seats this year. It works.
- 1 free piece of Rainmen gear, either T-shirt or hat, or half-price hoodie, for every season ticket seat as well as discounts on additional purchases of Rainmen gear. This is probably the best way to increase the Rainmen’s visibility, especially among kids who would wear them to school, not to mention making the stands look Rainmen blue. Watch US college or major league sports and the stands that are full of fans wearing their team’s colours make a difference. It’s all about the fan’s sense of belonging to the team and building their loyalty, not to mention the psychological power it would have on the visiting teams.
- More season-ticket-holder-only events. These don’t have to be expensive, and if there was a cost to attend, keep it under $10/person and provide value for that money. Better options would be the “Season Ticket Holder Experience” events that don’t cost anything, like an afternoon with the Rainmen where kids would have some court time with the players. How cool would that be?
- A free program! I bought programs every game last year, despite having virtually no new information in each issue. This year, I can’t even find someone who sells them. I think a free program for season ticket holders is a cheap way to keep them informed during the games.
- Your seats guaranteed, available to buy for playoffs. This goes without saying.
- Ticket exchange privileges: if you can’t make a game, you can switch tickets for extras to a game you can attend.
- A ticket donation program to get unused tickets into the hands of deserving children and charities and give the season ticket holder a tax deduction. I have not used all of my tickets and it is a shame that the seats go unused.
- Discounts on purchases from team sponsors. This is a win-win situation, increasing visibility for companies as sponsors of the Rainmen and helping their corporate citizen image.
- How about free face painting for season ticket holders before the games? Let’s get creative here!
- A sit-in session with new Coach Les Berry, in a Chalk Talk event? I know a lot of people who post on here would love to get an “insider” appreciation for Coach Berry’s strategies.
- Honorary Ball Kid. Have a lottery to choose season ticket holding children to be able to rebound balls for the Rainmen during pre-game warmups.
Most of these are essentially free or very low cost to the team and would add significantly to the “Season Ticket Holder Experience.”
Monday, February 9, 2009
It's The New Rainmen, Baby!
Last night's game was the most rewarding I have seen as a Rainmen fan. Halifax finally beat their nemesis, the Vermont Frost Heaves, 108-97. After a slow start under new coach Les Berry, the Rainmen pulled ahead in the first quarter and never relinquished the lead. There were are few mis-steps in the very early minutes, evidence of minimal practice time under Berry, who came in mid-week to replace outgoing coach Rick Lewis. The increased load of plays and different coaching style took a bit for the Rainmen to get used to, but once they did, Berry's leadership -- and the players' talent -- showed through.
As I said last night, this is The New Rainmen! Maybe PR should latch onto that, to wipe away the stain of the past little while.
If Berry takes a technical every game, I wouldn't mind, just don't get tossed.
Berry seemed to bring an assistant coach with him. I hope the Rainmen keep a place for Shannon Hansen, he is a super nice guy and he was very diplomatic when we were chatting after the game. He has said in an interview that he wants to be in Hali for a while, I hope he has a place at the New Rainmen table.
There is a new lineup that seems to be taking place, with almost no time for Lewis favourite Glenn Dandridge, Kevin Hammack or fan favourite John Strickland. Berry has favourites, and they appear to be David Bailey, Rob Sanders, Tony Bennett, and Brian Silverhorn. In my opinion, these guys deserve the increased time they got last night. Veterans like Eric Crookshank and Jimmy Twyman also played well, but their roles are being changed to fit into the new coach's system. I hope they recognize that team comes first, I am sure they will, since they have stuck with the Rainmen since last season.
Berry was losing his mind at the showoff plays that seem to be minor league ball's trademark: length-of-court Hail Mary passes for a break, no-look cross-court passes, and other flashy stuff that is great when it works and deflating when it doesn't. Unfortunately, the Rainmen's adrenaline seemed to be running a bit high and a few of their showy plays did not go well. I think Berry probably had a stern talk with them post-game. There is no need to give up possessions on stray no-look passes, especially against Vermont, who are no slouches.
Remember, gents, we are not the Globetrotters; more importantly, our opponents are not the Washington Generals who are paid to lose every time. While I enjoy huge dunks and no-looks as much as the next fan (which is obvious, since apparently, I am sitting close to the webcast microphone!), I would much rather see a W with good play and some showy stuff than an L with too much flash.
A note to congratulate the Heaves on having the most dedicated fans ever. It was good to see them, and impressive that they drove 19 hours straight from Buffalo, New York to watch their team. They logged a total of 41 hours of driving time to watch 96 minutes of basketball. That is commitment.
The BBC (Bailey's Brew Crew) will be meeting at the Elephant & Castle before Friday's game and after Sunday's game for some team spirit time. The E & C will have food and drink specials on for both those times, so it will be an affordable chance to get together with other fans and maybe even some players after Sunday's game. Wear your Rainmen gear!
Plus, the incomparable Dunc13 will be in Hali for these games, so fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the show from Section 23!
As I said last night, this is The New Rainmen! Maybe PR should latch onto that, to wipe away the stain of the past little while.
If Berry takes a technical every game, I wouldn't mind, just don't get tossed.
Berry seemed to bring an assistant coach with him. I hope the Rainmen keep a place for Shannon Hansen, he is a super nice guy and he was very diplomatic when we were chatting after the game. He has said in an interview that he wants to be in Hali for a while, I hope he has a place at the New Rainmen table.
There is a new lineup that seems to be taking place, with almost no time for Lewis favourite Glenn Dandridge, Kevin Hammack or fan favourite John Strickland. Berry has favourites, and they appear to be David Bailey, Rob Sanders, Tony Bennett, and Brian Silverhorn. In my opinion, these guys deserve the increased time they got last night. Veterans like Eric Crookshank and Jimmy Twyman also played well, but their roles are being changed to fit into the new coach's system. I hope they recognize that team comes first, I am sure they will, since they have stuck with the Rainmen since last season.
Berry was losing his mind at the showoff plays that seem to be minor league ball's trademark: length-of-court Hail Mary passes for a break, no-look cross-court passes, and other flashy stuff that is great when it works and deflating when it doesn't. Unfortunately, the Rainmen's adrenaline seemed to be running a bit high and a few of their showy plays did not go well. I think Berry probably had a stern talk with them post-game. There is no need to give up possessions on stray no-look passes, especially against Vermont, who are no slouches.
Remember, gents, we are not the Globetrotters; more importantly, our opponents are not the Washington Generals who are paid to lose every time. While I enjoy huge dunks and no-looks as much as the next fan (which is obvious, since apparently, I am sitting close to the webcast microphone!), I would much rather see a W with good play and some showy stuff than an L with too much flash.
A note to congratulate the Heaves on having the most dedicated fans ever. It was good to see them, and impressive that they drove 19 hours straight from Buffalo, New York to watch their team. They logged a total of 41 hours of driving time to watch 96 minutes of basketball. That is commitment.
The BBC (Bailey's Brew Crew) will be meeting at the Elephant & Castle before Friday's game and after Sunday's game for some team spirit time. The E & C will have food and drink specials on for both those times, so it will be an affordable chance to get together with other fans and maybe even some players after Sunday's game. Wear your Rainmen gear!
Plus, the incomparable Dunc13 will be in Hali for these games, so fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the show from Section 23!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The King Is Dead, Long Live The King!
Some pretty incredible news in the past couple days. Andre Levingston has fired coach Rick Lewis and is on the hunt for a coach who will prepare the team "to contend for a championship". Shannon Hanson, the Rainmen Assistant Coach since Day 1, is the interim head coach. After one and a half seasons as the Assistant Coach, I think Shannon deserves a chance. His patience at being Lewis’ subordinate for that long should be repaid. Best of luck Shannon, I look forward to seeing what you can do!
Andre made it plain that he wants a coach who will lead the Rainmen to a championship. Way to go, Andre!
Metro newspaper asks whether Eric Crookshank will be brought back into the active roster, now that Rick Lewis is gone. Eric should be brought back immediately. If, as Chad Lucas says, we need to finish 7-2 for a realistic chance at the playoffs, then why wouldn’t we plug EC in right away?
In other news, Rodney Mayes was let go from the team. I think the writing was on the wall for Mayes when he was given the #20 jersey. I feel bad for him that the notice about his release was tacked on the end of the story about Lewis being fired.
So will Andre take over as GM? Coach and GM are two different jobs and Lewis had both of them. If Andre can find a talented individual, could that guy wear both hats? Given the shortness of the season, he probably could.
One last thing: Part of me feels like this is an Obama Taking Office moment. Just as the TV pundits (Jon Stewart, Keith Olbermann, etc.) are scrambling for content after Bush left, with a new coach, what will this blog be like with no one to complain about?
Andre made it plain that he wants a coach who will lead the Rainmen to a championship. Way to go, Andre!
Metro newspaper asks whether Eric Crookshank will be brought back into the active roster, now that Rick Lewis is gone. Eric should be brought back immediately. If, as Chad Lucas says, we need to finish 7-2 for a realistic chance at the playoffs, then why wouldn’t we plug EC in right away?
In other news, Rodney Mayes was let go from the team. I think the writing was on the wall for Mayes when he was given the #20 jersey. I feel bad for him that the notice about his release was tacked on the end of the story about Lewis being fired.
So will Andre take over as GM? Coach and GM are two different jobs and Lewis had both of them. If Andre can find a talented individual, could that guy wear both hats? Given the shortness of the season, he probably could.
One last thing: Part of me feels like this is an Obama Taking Office moment. Just as the TV pundits (Jon Stewart, Keith Olbermann, etc.) are scrambling for content after Bush left, with a new coach, what will this blog be like with no one to complain about?
Monday, February 2, 2009
A Letter to Andre Levingston, Rainmen team owner
Dear Andre,
It pains me to have to write this letter to you. After reading about Cordell Jeanty's benching in the newspaper today, I have to wonder: How can the Rainmen front office continue to stick their heads in the sand? Andre, you are a successful businessman, aren't you? How can you not see that Lewis is messing up so much that this team, as a business, may not last long enough to make it to next season?
With only a handful of home games left, what the Rainmen need is a total transformation from a team with talent that can't win the tough games into a talented team that has a chance to win it all. The real answer is THE COACH HAS TO GO.
Andre, other professional sports teams fire their coaches all the time. When the talent on the field exceeds the talent on the sideline but the team still falters, it is obvious what part of the equation has to change.
Andre, do what is best for the business. Emotions are not part of it, look how negative emotions hurt the business with Lewis punishing talented players for daring to question his authority. The players are punished but it is the team, the fans, and ultimately your bottom line that will suffer.
As a player and coach myself, I used to give Lewis the benefit of the doubt. Sometimes players have to be reminded who is the coach and who is the player. However, in his parting comments to the newspaper, SirVal merely expressed what all of us fans have been saying for a long time now, in conversations with each other and on Section 23, Chris Parson's blog (which is the main source of news and opinion about the Rainmen). Lewis is the obstacle to the Rainmen's success. With all of the recent negative press about the Rainmen, people who are just learning about the Rainmen are getting a lot of reasons to decide against buying tickets, let alone buying any merchandise.
I personally had two friends buy season tickets this year, based on my bringing them to a couple games last year with my season tickets (which I renewed). One of these friends, a regular commenter on the Section 23 blog, has seriously wondered aloud to me about getting a refund. If he is thinking like that -- and he is a basketball fan, an athlete, and a coach -- imagine what a casual observer must think about the Rainmen and whether to even attend a single game or not. This all adds up to losses for the Rainmen and I am not just talking about the score at the end of each game.
How about next year? With Crookshank and Jeanty -- two talented and experienced players -- being benched over coaching disputes with Lewis, if the coach is still with the team next year, how many new recruits will you get?
Halifax has the potential to be the most successful team in the league. We have the population, the venue, and the talent on the court. What we don't have is the coach to bring success to the team. It would deeply sadden me as well as a lot of other fans in Halifax to see the Rainmen fail because of Rick Lewis.
Andre, if it has to be about the dollars and cents, then so be it. Lewis must go.
Thank you for bringing the Rainmen to Halifax. I sincerely hope you make the necessary decision to further the team's success and its future in Halifax.
Best regards,
Phil Kempton
It pains me to have to write this letter to you. After reading about Cordell Jeanty's benching in the newspaper today, I have to wonder: How can the Rainmen front office continue to stick their heads in the sand? Andre, you are a successful businessman, aren't you? How can you not see that Lewis is messing up so much that this team, as a business, may not last long enough to make it to next season?
With only a handful of home games left, what the Rainmen need is a total transformation from a team with talent that can't win the tough games into a talented team that has a chance to win it all. The real answer is THE COACH HAS TO GO.
Andre, other professional sports teams fire their coaches all the time. When the talent on the field exceeds the talent on the sideline but the team still falters, it is obvious what part of the equation has to change.
Andre, do what is best for the business. Emotions are not part of it, look how negative emotions hurt the business with Lewis punishing talented players for daring to question his authority. The players are punished but it is the team, the fans, and ultimately your bottom line that will suffer.
As a player and coach myself, I used to give Lewis the benefit of the doubt. Sometimes players have to be reminded who is the coach and who is the player. However, in his parting comments to the newspaper, SirVal merely expressed what all of us fans have been saying for a long time now, in conversations with each other and on Section 23, Chris Parson's blog (which is the main source of news and opinion about the Rainmen). Lewis is the obstacle to the Rainmen's success. With all of the recent negative press about the Rainmen, people who are just learning about the Rainmen are getting a lot of reasons to decide against buying tickets, let alone buying any merchandise.
I personally had two friends buy season tickets this year, based on my bringing them to a couple games last year with my season tickets (which I renewed). One of these friends, a regular commenter on the Section 23 blog, has seriously wondered aloud to me about getting a refund. If he is thinking like that -- and he is a basketball fan, an athlete, and a coach -- imagine what a casual observer must think about the Rainmen and whether to even attend a single game or not. This all adds up to losses for the Rainmen and I am not just talking about the score at the end of each game.
How about next year? With Crookshank and Jeanty -- two talented and experienced players -- being benched over coaching disputes with Lewis, if the coach is still with the team next year, how many new recruits will you get?
Halifax has the potential to be the most successful team in the league. We have the population, the venue, and the talent on the court. What we don't have is the coach to bring success to the team. It would deeply sadden me as well as a lot of other fans in Halifax to see the Rainmen fail because of Rick Lewis.
Andre, if it has to be about the dollars and cents, then so be it. Lewis must go.
Thank you for bringing the Rainmen to Halifax. I sincerely hope you make the necessary decision to further the team's success and its future in Halifax.
Best regards,
Phil Kempton
Rainmen Fall in Manchester and to Third in Division
Metro newspaper has a story about the game in which, once again, Lewis blames the recent losses to Vermont and Manchester on the players having “lapses”.
Here is Merriam-Webster’s definition of lapse, with my comments thrown in for free:
1 a: a slight error typically due to forgetfulness or inattention (Lewis' inattention during games is what is making them lose)
b: a temporary deviation or fall especially from a higher to a lower state (like from first in our division to third in two games?)
2: a becoming less : decline (we have certainly seen a decline since EC was benched)
3 a (1): the termination of a right or privilege through neglect to exercise it within some limit of time (Lewis has neglected to properly use the talent he has been given, time to terminate his rights and privileges as coach)
(2): termination of coverage for nonpayment of premiums b: interruption , discontinuance (benching two of your best players and giving the team to a mid-season replacement is a good was to INSURE that your players resent and mistrust you as a coach)
4: an abandonment of religious faith (there are definitely some fans who have lost their faith in the Rainmen, and some players too, so I hear)
5: a passage of time ; also : interval (everyone outside the Rainmen front office agree that Lewis' time has passed. Time for some new blood in coach and GM!)
Benching 2 of your strongest players and not really coaching during the games are the real reasons the Rainmen lose these types of matches.
At this point, I am waiting for players to start leaving of their own free will. We will see how attendance is for the rest of the home games. My guess is that semi-interested fans will give up on the Rainmen, if they read these news stories at all.
Hey Lewis, when you have a problem with everyone around you, it is probably not the others who are the problem.
Here is Merriam-Webster’s definition of lapse, with my comments thrown in for free:
1 a: a slight error typically due to forgetfulness or inattention (Lewis' inattention during games is what is making them lose)
b: a temporary deviation or fall especially from a higher to a lower state (like from first in our division to third in two games?)
2: a becoming less : decline (we have certainly seen a decline since EC was benched)
3 a (1): the termination of a right or privilege through neglect to exercise it within some limit of time (Lewis has neglected to properly use the talent he has been given, time to terminate his rights and privileges as coach)
(2): termination of coverage for nonpayment of premiums b: interruption , discontinuance (benching two of your best players and giving the team to a mid-season replacement is a good was to INSURE that your players resent and mistrust you as a coach)
4: an abandonment of religious faith (there are definitely some fans who have lost their faith in the Rainmen, and some players too, so I hear)
5: a passage of time ; also : interval (everyone outside the Rainmen front office agree that Lewis' time has passed. Time for some new blood in coach and GM!)
Benching 2 of your strongest players and not really coaching during the games are the real reasons the Rainmen lose these types of matches.
At this point, I am waiting for players to start leaving of their own free will. We will see how attendance is for the rest of the home games. My guess is that semi-interested fans will give up on the Rainmen, if they read these news stories at all.
Hey Lewis, when you have a problem with everyone around you, it is probably not the others who are the problem.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Rainmen drop a winnable game to Vermont, 122-110
Given Vermont inconsistency this year and despite our inconsistency (!), we could have beaten Vermont. From what I gather the officiating was so bad that the webcast announcers were commenting on it, the fact remains that Coach Rick Lewis cannot get the job done. Vermont's coach Will Voigt proved again that he is the superior coach, which isn't too hard. Rick Lewis has decided that the saviour of the team is a guy who flew in on Thursday. He is already Lewis' go-to guy in the crunch, despite having virtually no practice time with the Rainmen. With decent PGs like Hammack and Ramey already on the team, why do we have a new guy who is like Patrice O’Neal from our first season: hogging the ball and taking too many shots himself when all we need is a few more seconds to develop the play? Of course, that strategy only works when we have more than one play.
I gave Lewis the benefit of the doubt last year as a rookie coach with a first-year team, but with the talent on this year’s squad, his shortcomings as a coach are even more embarrassing, not to mention his miscues as a GM, tripling up on a certain position (PG) and leaving others (a true centre) woefully inadequate.
It’s almost like he is not yet finished reading the Basketball Coaching For Dummies book. I think he stopped at the page on PT where it says to make the players run up and down the court and to practice their verts. He needs to skip to the end of the book where it says how to win against teams that are as good as yours or better in order to actually make the playoffs. And eat humble pie and re-instate Eric Crookshank.
I gave Lewis the benefit of the doubt last year as a rookie coach with a first-year team, but with the talent on this year’s squad, his shortcomings as a coach are even more embarrassing, not to mention his miscues as a GM, tripling up on a certain position (PG) and leaving others (a true centre) woefully inadequate.
It’s almost like he is not yet finished reading the Basketball Coaching For Dummies book. I think he stopped at the page on PT where it says to make the players run up and down the court and to practice their verts. He needs to skip to the end of the book where it says how to win against teams that are as good as yours or better in order to actually make the playoffs. And eat humble pie and re-instate Eric Crookshank.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome John Strickland!
With the addition of the 36-year-old former Harlem Globetrotter, the Rainmen now have a new play: the Strick and Roll.
John Strickland is definitely an asset to the Rainmen.
1) His showmanship: his no-look passes (including making binoculars out of his hands on the way back down the court), his speech to the fans after the game, and how he reacted to our cheering for him by cheering himself on with a pat on his behind;
2 His outspokenness: during one shift, he didn’t stop talking on his way past the timekeeper table, to the referee, to the opposing coach, and finally to himself in mid-court — he talked to more people during the game than Lewis did;
3) His apparent spirituality (he crosses himself twice every time he is defending);
4) His obvious high basketball IQ and leadership on the floor, directing players to where they should be to score — and they did last night, thanks to his coaching during the game.
Welcome to Halifax, Strick!
In other news:
I saw a couple of possible reasons why SirVal has moved around so much during his career: (at least one) airball 3-point attempt that was an unnecessary shot and an instance where he lost his cool, complete with shouting expletives, at being called for a foul in the paint. Greed and Anger are two sins that no athlete can show on the playing field and survive. SirVal, please use your head and just show us your talent, not your temper.
EC Suspension Watch:
I stuck around for a bit after the game to see the start of the high school game. By the way, the Rainmen should really have promoted that there was a local high school game immediately after theirs last night. More people might have stuck around. Anyway, I observed Eric greet Lewis with a big brohug and there were smiles all around. They chatted for a couple of minutes, then Eric moved on to greet some Rainmen. It struck me as a bit odd to see them so chummy, considering Lewis ended Eric’s season and must have hurt Eric’s reputation around basketball circles. Anyway, just thought I would post it.
Free Big Mac? Yeah right!:
McDonald’s will never have to make good on their 15 three-pointer Big Mac offer. Never. We were 4 for 26 last night. At that rate, the Rainmen will have to attempt 98three-pointers to score 15 of them! McDonald’s is getting great free advertising from this one. As Chris902 said last night, maybe if the Rainmen score 15 three-pointers, each of the fans should get a car.
John Strickland is definitely an asset to the Rainmen.
1) His showmanship: his no-look passes (including making binoculars out of his hands on the way back down the court), his speech to the fans after the game, and how he reacted to our cheering for him by cheering himself on with a pat on his behind;
2 His outspokenness: during one shift, he didn’t stop talking on his way past the timekeeper table, to the referee, to the opposing coach, and finally to himself in mid-court — he talked to more people during the game than Lewis did;
3) His apparent spirituality (he crosses himself twice every time he is defending);
4) His obvious high basketball IQ and leadership on the floor, directing players to where they should be to score — and they did last night, thanks to his coaching during the game.
Welcome to Halifax, Strick!
In other news:
I saw a couple of possible reasons why SirVal has moved around so much during his career: (at least one) airball 3-point attempt that was an unnecessary shot and an instance where he lost his cool, complete with shouting expletives, at being called for a foul in the paint. Greed and Anger are two sins that no athlete can show on the playing field and survive. SirVal, please use your head and just show us your talent, not your temper.
EC Suspension Watch:
I stuck around for a bit after the game to see the start of the high school game. By the way, the Rainmen should really have promoted that there was a local high school game immediately after theirs last night. More people might have stuck around. Anyway, I observed Eric greet Lewis with a big brohug and there were smiles all around. They chatted for a couple of minutes, then Eric moved on to greet some Rainmen. It struck me as a bit odd to see them so chummy, considering Lewis ended Eric’s season and must have hurt Eric’s reputation around basketball circles. Anyway, just thought I would post it.
Free Big Mac? Yeah right!:
McDonald’s will never have to make good on their 15 three-pointer Big Mac offer. Never. We were 4 for 26 last night. At that rate, the Rainmen will have to attempt 98three-pointers to score 15 of them! McDonald’s is getting great free advertising from this one. As Chris902 said last night, maybe if the Rainmen score 15 three-pointers, each of the fans should get a car.
Friday, January 23, 2009
The truth finally comes out
From Chris Parsons' Section 23 blog:
"Apparently there was no physical confrontation between Eric and anyone else. It was 100% verbal. Eric was benched because he told Lewis during a timeout that he feels that they should be running the high pick and roll with Sanders, not him. Lewis blew up on him and told him to sit on the bench.
After the game in the locker room Crookshank said he thinks that they need to get their best guys on the floor and Lewis snapped on him. This goes along with what a lot of people have told me - no one feels like they can actually talk openly about the team in the locker room, on the bench, or in practice. Lewis has a feeling that he has to control everything and any discussion undermines his authority."
That certainly sounds more believable than the most recent story of Eric taking a swing at teammate Brian Silverhorn. Honestly, I had trouble thinking Eric would throw punches, especially at a second-year teammate.
If this is the case, I think the honourable thing for Lewis to do would be resign and let Shannon take over coaching the team. If Lewis doesn't resign, then Levingston must make the executive decision that is best for the organization and fire Lewis. If it eases front office feelings, make it a soft sell (leaving for personal commitments, whatever you want to say) to preserve Lewis' reputation (?!?) and try to salvage the remainder of the season.
IMO, Lewis doesn't deserve to stay with the Rainmen, after privately over-reacting and then publicly throwing Eric under the bus, but Andre has always come across as a gentleman and he would probably have a hard time openly humiliating the coach/GM.
If they act now, we can still do well this season, maybe even make the playoffs. And as anyone who has been watching this year's NFL playoffs will attest, any team can win in the playoffs. That is what is best for the players, best for the fans and best for the Rainmen organization.
"Apparently there was no physical confrontation between Eric and anyone else. It was 100% verbal. Eric was benched because he told Lewis during a timeout that he feels that they should be running the high pick and roll with Sanders, not him. Lewis blew up on him and told him to sit on the bench.
After the game in the locker room Crookshank said he thinks that they need to get their best guys on the floor and Lewis snapped on him. This goes along with what a lot of people have told me - no one feels like they can actually talk openly about the team in the locker room, on the bench, or in practice. Lewis has a feeling that he has to control everything and any discussion undermines his authority."
That certainly sounds more believable than the most recent story of Eric taking a swing at teammate Brian Silverhorn. Honestly, I had trouble thinking Eric would throw punches, especially at a second-year teammate.
If this is the case, I think the honourable thing for Lewis to do would be resign and let Shannon take over coaching the team. If Lewis doesn't resign, then Levingston must make the executive decision that is best for the organization and fire Lewis. If it eases front office feelings, make it a soft sell (leaving for personal commitments, whatever you want to say) to preserve Lewis' reputation (?!?) and try to salvage the remainder of the season.
IMO, Lewis doesn't deserve to stay with the Rainmen, after privately over-reacting and then publicly throwing Eric under the bus, but Andre has always come across as a gentleman and he would probably have a hard time openly humiliating the coach/GM.
If they act now, we can still do well this season, maybe even make the playoffs. And as anyone who has been watching this year's NFL playoffs will attest, any team can win in the playoffs. That is what is best for the players, best for the fans and best for the Rainmen organization.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Halifax Rainmen lose in Vermont 106-99
A few highlights: The Rainmen were within a few points for much of the game, especially at the end, but still lost; Eric Crookshank's #20 was worn by Rodney Mayes (uh oh); Dandridge continued his poor performance, with 40 minutes playing time, despite only shooting 33% and giving up 11 turnovers!
It looked to me like just about every game the Rainmen played last year - on the verge of winning, just keeping up, and then losing in the last minute despite being within a bucket or two. Sure sign of a coach who doesn’t know how to use the talent on the court.
Is Dandridge this season’s Booyer (except he is active) - a coach favourite but not living up to the hype?
I think re-assigning Eric’s number is a) in poor taste, since the suspension just happened, b) short-sighted, since the Rainmen want #20 to go to schools and talk to kids, c) a pretty good sign that Eric is toast with the Rainmen, d) stupid PR move since fans may still want to wear the jerseys they bought to show loyalty to Eric but still be Rainmen fans - those are not mutually exclusive, e) all of the above.
The correct answer is: e) all of the above.
Thanks for the great play-by-play Chris. Good for those of us who didn’t listen to the game.
It looked to me like just about every game the Rainmen played last year - on the verge of winning, just keeping up, and then losing in the last minute despite being within a bucket or two. Sure sign of a coach who doesn’t know how to use the talent on the court.
Is Dandridge this season’s Booyer (except he is active) - a coach favourite but not living up to the hype?
I think re-assigning Eric’s number is a) in poor taste, since the suspension just happened, b) short-sighted, since the Rainmen want #20 to go to schools and talk to kids, c) a pretty good sign that Eric is toast with the Rainmen, d) stupid PR move since fans may still want to wear the jerseys they bought to show loyalty to Eric but still be Rainmen fans - those are not mutually exclusive, e) all of the above.
The correct answer is: e) all of the above.
Thanks for the great play-by-play Chris. Good for those of us who didn’t listen to the game.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
"Like sands through the hourglass...
So go the players of our team." Apologies to Days of Our Lives. We are back on the roller coaster roster of last season.
So now that Eric Crookshank is suspended with no one from the Rainmen saying why, there has been furious speculation on Section 23 as to the real reasons behind the furor.
It seems like the real reason leaked out, through the many, many fan posts on Section 23. Eric had words (probably very strong words) with the coach and Boom Goes The Dynamite, he's suspended for the remaining 80% OF THE SEASON!
Wow, not bad! Less than a day and a half from Chris’ post to a fan solving the crime! By the way, I thought it was Rick Lewis in the Conservatory with the Lead Pipe.
Veteran fans will remember that The Lewis has favourites and there was a mole in the house last year. I don’t know what The Lewis has on Andre to stay on here at the expense of the team, but it had better be good.
On Section 23, Chris posted some true comedy:
"How on earth is he going to talk to kids about decision making and consequences if he can’t say what he did?
Eric: *after 20 minutes of talking* And that children is why no matter how well things are going for you, you always have to be accountable for your actions. Does anyone have any questions?
Child: ummm… but what did you do that you had to be accountable for?
Eric: That is an internal matter and will be dealt with inside the organization."
Satire -- I love it.
IMO, a baseball coach and PT expert does not a basketball coach make, no matter how close he is to the owner. So I guess that is my thought on what has to change to fix the Rainmen.
In terms of sacrifices of pay and time lost, Eric is still getting paid. The season is only 3 months long anyway, and Eric loves Hali. I believe he has called it his second home. Eric could very likely want to stay here for personal reasons, read girlfriend.
Either the real reason for the suspension is huge and the Rainmen are sheltering Eric as well as his reputation and career and Eric is standing up and being repentant for his mistake, in which case, hooray for everyone; OR Eric is taking one for the team, after standing up to an outclassed tyrant and he is toeing the party line for a longer-term deal with the team to stay in Hali, ’cause we’re so lovable. I don’t know who to cheer for in that scenario.
The hero in all of this is Rainmen PR head Nancy Sheppard, who has obviously coached the three men involved (Eric, The Lewis and Andre) in how to circle the wagons.
Unfortunately for the Rainmen, this blog (’cause it is truly so awesome) has perpetuated significant fan speculation. That cannot be good for the Rainmen. Somehow I think they are trying to save face (whose face, I am not sure as of yet) and in doing so, they remain inscrutable to the point of hurting the organization. At least, that is how I see it right now. I am sure that when the facts come to light — if they haven’t already on Section 23, thanks to Lila — everyone will wish it had been handled differently.
To replace Eric at centre, the Rainmen have signed 37 year old John Strickland, a journeyman if ever there was one. At 6'8" and 275 pounds, Strick will be a lot of man to move under the net. Let's just hope he has the fitness to keep up. That means that young Tyronne McNeal is gone. McNeal only played a handful of minutes and was never given much of a chance to get used to playing for the Rainmen.
So much for Lewis being able to develop young players. Remember that was the selling point for choosing him as coach before last season? Ask Derico Wigginton how well his player development went last year. Better yet, don't ask him, he probably wants to forget the whole thing ever happened.
Despite the touting of Lewis as a PT specialist who can develop young players, history has shown that if a player cannot fall into the Lewis program immediately, he rides the pines and/or is booted. To me, this is code for Lewis is bossy and doesn't take any argument from his players. It's his way or the highway. Older, more experienced players would do well to shut up, keep their heads down and hope for some scout to see them and whisk them away to a better-coached team. Eric finally had enough and look what it got him.
So now that Eric Crookshank is suspended with no one from the Rainmen saying why, there has been furious speculation on Section 23 as to the real reasons behind the furor.
It seems like the real reason leaked out, through the many, many fan posts on Section 23. Eric had words (probably very strong words) with the coach and Boom Goes The Dynamite, he's suspended for the remaining 80% OF THE SEASON!
Wow, not bad! Less than a day and a half from Chris’ post to a fan solving the crime! By the way, I thought it was Rick Lewis in the Conservatory with the Lead Pipe.
Veteran fans will remember that The Lewis has favourites and there was a mole in the house last year. I don’t know what The Lewis has on Andre to stay on here at the expense of the team, but it had better be good.
On Section 23, Chris posted some true comedy:
"How on earth is he going to talk to kids about decision making and consequences if he can’t say what he did?
Eric: *after 20 minutes of talking* And that children is why no matter how well things are going for you, you always have to be accountable for your actions. Does anyone have any questions?
Child: ummm… but what did you do that you had to be accountable for?
Eric: That is an internal matter and will be dealt with inside the organization."
Satire -- I love it.
IMO, a baseball coach and PT expert does not a basketball coach make, no matter how close he is to the owner. So I guess that is my thought on what has to change to fix the Rainmen.
In terms of sacrifices of pay and time lost, Eric is still getting paid. The season is only 3 months long anyway, and Eric loves Hali. I believe he has called it his second home. Eric could very likely want to stay here for personal reasons, read girlfriend.
Either the real reason for the suspension is huge and the Rainmen are sheltering Eric as well as his reputation and career and Eric is standing up and being repentant for his mistake, in which case, hooray for everyone; OR Eric is taking one for the team, after standing up to an outclassed tyrant and he is toeing the party line for a longer-term deal with the team to stay in Hali, ’cause we’re so lovable. I don’t know who to cheer for in that scenario.
The hero in all of this is Rainmen PR head Nancy Sheppard, who has obviously coached the three men involved (Eric, The Lewis and Andre) in how to circle the wagons.
Unfortunately for the Rainmen, this blog (’cause it is truly so awesome) has perpetuated significant fan speculation. That cannot be good for the Rainmen. Somehow I think they are trying to save face (whose face, I am not sure as of yet) and in doing so, they remain inscrutable to the point of hurting the organization. At least, that is how I see it right now. I am sure that when the facts come to light — if they haven’t already on Section 23, thanks to Lila — everyone will wish it had been handled differently.
To replace Eric at centre, the Rainmen have signed 37 year old John Strickland, a journeyman if ever there was one. At 6'8" and 275 pounds, Strick will be a lot of man to move under the net. Let's just hope he has the fitness to keep up. That means that young Tyronne McNeal is gone. McNeal only played a handful of minutes and was never given much of a chance to get used to playing for the Rainmen.
So much for Lewis being able to develop young players. Remember that was the selling point for choosing him as coach before last season? Ask Derico Wigginton how well his player development went last year. Better yet, don't ask him, he probably wants to forget the whole thing ever happened.
Despite the touting of Lewis as a PT specialist who can develop young players, history has shown that if a player cannot fall into the Lewis program immediately, he rides the pines and/or is booted. To me, this is code for Lewis is bossy and doesn't take any argument from his players. It's his way or the highway. Older, more experienced players would do well to shut up, keep their heads down and hope for some scout to see them and whisk them away to a better-coached team. Eric finally had enough and look what it got him.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Latest developments with the Rainmen
The Rainmen have started their season at 3-1, with the one loss happening last Sunday. All of the games have been close, with single digit differences in the final scores each time. The Rainmen's loss to Montreal was a direct result of Eric Crookshank, one of the Rainmen's leading players, being benched for about half the game.
On Monday, the Metro newspaper reported what seemed to be a disagreement between Coach Rick Lewis and Crookshank. It is hard to believe the team would want to air out its dirty laundry in public. Anyway, it seemed like a blip until today, when the same paper reported that Eric Crookshank is now suspended for the season, with pay! What?!?
Oh man. What a PR nightmare the Crookshank suspension will be. He is the face of the team, he is announced at the games as “Halifax’s own”, and he is a personable guy to boot.
If #20 isn’t on the court, expect new fans of this season to stay home in droves, especially kids.
Without Crookshank, I can see the Rainmen repeating last year’s record of 0.375, especially since Brian Silverhorn, the Rainmen's outside shooter, is out with a bad knee. Ugh.
Why do I feel like a Chicago Cubs fan all of a sudden?
On Monday, the Metro newspaper reported what seemed to be a disagreement between Coach Rick Lewis and Crookshank. It is hard to believe the team would want to air out its dirty laundry in public. Anyway, it seemed like a blip until today, when the same paper reported that Eric Crookshank is now suspended for the season, with pay! What?!?
Oh man. What a PR nightmare the Crookshank suspension will be. He is the face of the team, he is announced at the games as “Halifax’s own”, and he is a personable guy to boot.
If #20 isn’t on the court, expect new fans of this season to stay home in droves, especially kids.
Without Crookshank, I can see the Rainmen repeating last year’s record of 0.375, especially since Brian Silverhorn, the Rainmen's outside shooter, is out with a bad knee. Ugh.
Why do I feel like a Chicago Cubs fan all of a sudden?
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Rainmen beat Kebs in Home Opener, 124-112
It’s good to see the Rainmen dominate Quebec, who had our number last season. The fact that we beat the Kebs in almost every area of the game augers well for the coming year.
The PBL box score is fantastic! I liked the play-by-play and the stats on turnover, second chance and bench points. So that’s what a real league is like…
Good chemistry between most of the Rainmen, it seems like some of them are actually friends. Having a double-digit lead for much of the game also helps boost team spirit.
Eric: the most obvious game changer and team leader. When Coach put Eric back on to re-capture the energy on the floor, the game changed back to the Rainmen’s favour. After the game, Eric announced that they want to bring a championship to Halifax. I think they might do just that!
Rob Sanders/”Shoulders”: just about knocked a guy out driving to the net; once he lowers that shoulder, count on him scoring.
Jimmy: the most consistent point guard we have, who also happened to score 15 points.
Dandridge: not his best game, hopefully he gets back to his former three-point draining self for Sunday.
Silverhorn: was not in his usual shooter position, but mixed it up under the net and scored from the FT line. With Dandridge as an alternate shooter, I thought this role went alright for Brian.
SirVal: OK, maybe he isn’t the second-highest scoring athlete in NCAA anymore, but I was impressed with his athleticism, in particular the grab he made of a pass that was behind him as he crossed the floor. Let’s give him some space and see how he performs before we write him off.
Hammack: up and down game for him, impressive at times but 2 flubbed passes took the air out of our sails for a bit.
Cordell “Ce n’est pas” Jeanty: like Dandridge, seemed a bit off for this game.
David Bailey: probably going to be the player to be voted Most Like KD. He makes things happen, but isn’t the superstar. Also, he is a nice guy in person.
McNeal: who knew our 7-footer could sink the long shot? However, would like to see him mix it up more around the net and use his size to back other guys off.
Ramey and Mayes: didn’t see enough of them to make an impression, sorry.
Coaching: Certainly improved from last year. Subbed in the bench when we had the game in hand but were not afraid to replace them with starters to ensure the win.
Quebec Coach: Apparently selling Benz’s didn’t work out, he was sporting a Honda shirt. The Fit is Go! hahahaha
P.S. the Quebec assistant coach looked like an extra from the Godfather movies; nice tie, buddy!
Officials: Will the officials ever give a technical for coaches being on the court will play is on? Sure doesn’t seem like they will.
Production: At half-time, the electrical cord that rose to the rafters in front of my seat was moved, thank you to whoever made that happen in my absence.
Seemed like everyone was still feeling their way, production-wise and the Weather Girls (only one veteran from last year) were pretty disappointing. They need to either be a presence or be disbanded. Why are they not shaking their pompoms under the net when the opponents are shooting? I still think they should be leading some cheers and otherwise engaging with the audience, rather than simply walking in a group everywhere like the popular girls in high school.
There were 19 people sitting at the courtside tables (PR, game officials, media types), versus about half that number last year. It looked like they were having an economic summit to try and solve the credit crisis, or something. Just seemed like a lot of people.
Paul Palmeter is no Mavs Gillis.
The PBL box score is fantastic! I liked the play-by-play and the stats on turnover, second chance and bench points. So that’s what a real league is like…
Good chemistry between most of the Rainmen, it seems like some of them are actually friends. Having a double-digit lead for much of the game also helps boost team spirit.
Eric: the most obvious game changer and team leader. When Coach put Eric back on to re-capture the energy on the floor, the game changed back to the Rainmen’s favour. After the game, Eric announced that they want to bring a championship to Halifax. I think they might do just that!
Rob Sanders/”Shoulders”: just about knocked a guy out driving to the net; once he lowers that shoulder, count on him scoring.
Jimmy: the most consistent point guard we have, who also happened to score 15 points.
Dandridge: not his best game, hopefully he gets back to his former three-point draining self for Sunday.
Silverhorn: was not in his usual shooter position, but mixed it up under the net and scored from the FT line. With Dandridge as an alternate shooter, I thought this role went alright for Brian.
SirVal: OK, maybe he isn’t the second-highest scoring athlete in NCAA anymore, but I was impressed with his athleticism, in particular the grab he made of a pass that was behind him as he crossed the floor. Let’s give him some space and see how he performs before we write him off.
Hammack: up and down game for him, impressive at times but 2 flubbed passes took the air out of our sails for a bit.
Cordell “Ce n’est pas” Jeanty: like Dandridge, seemed a bit off for this game.
David Bailey: probably going to be the player to be voted Most Like KD. He makes things happen, but isn’t the superstar. Also, he is a nice guy in person.
McNeal: who knew our 7-footer could sink the long shot? However, would like to see him mix it up more around the net and use his size to back other guys off.
Ramey and Mayes: didn’t see enough of them to make an impression, sorry.
Coaching: Certainly improved from last year. Subbed in the bench when we had the game in hand but were not afraid to replace them with starters to ensure the win.
Quebec Coach: Apparently selling Benz’s didn’t work out, he was sporting a Honda shirt. The Fit is Go! hahahaha
P.S. the Quebec assistant coach looked like an extra from the Godfather movies; nice tie, buddy!
Officials: Will the officials ever give a technical for coaches being on the court will play is on? Sure doesn’t seem like they will.
Production: At half-time, the electrical cord that rose to the rafters in front of my seat was moved, thank you to whoever made that happen in my absence.
Seemed like everyone was still feeling their way, production-wise and the Weather Girls (only one veteran from last year) were pretty disappointing. They need to either be a presence or be disbanded. Why are they not shaking their pompoms under the net when the opponents are shooting? I still think they should be leading some cheers and otherwise engaging with the audience, rather than simply walking in a group everywhere like the popular girls in high school.
There were 19 people sitting at the courtside tables (PR, game officials, media types), versus about half that number last year. It looked like they were having an economic summit to try and solve the credit crisis, or something. Just seemed like a lot of people.
Paul Palmeter is no Mavs Gillis.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Rainmen join PBL but will we see any familiar faces?
The Rainmen have made some announcements lately regarding their league status as well as the whereabouts of some of the marquee players from last season.
As expected, we are now part of the Premier Basketball League (PBL). Unfortunately, none of the stars from last year will be returning.
Getting paid is a real issue with these guys. They really aren't paid a lot and they have bills just like the rest of us. Expecting someone to drop everything for a 3-month, 20-game season may prove difficult. At least with the 36-game season, there was a longer time frame to drop your life and move to Halifax.
I guess we should remember that minor leagues are stepping stones for athletes. Our team was in a league that is just like many other leagues around the world and I get the feeling that players tend to bounce around, depending on the schedules of the various leagues. They are just trying to make a living and have to go where the jobs are.
I would be surprised if we see anyone come back from last year's team and until we get into the D League (and maybe not even then), we probably won't have many returning players who aren't Maritimers.
Unfortunately, Lewis has proven that he cannot develop young players, so local talent may decide to go elsewhere rather than waste time sitting on the bench.
In my opinion, we need a local coach who has ties to the universities that will draw recent grads to our team. Once we get our version of "Coach K" who is a draw for athletes to play for him, then we might be able to count on having some consistency to the roster.
As expected, we are now part of the Premier Basketball League (PBL). Unfortunately, none of the stars from last year will be returning.
Getting paid is a real issue with these guys. They really aren't paid a lot and they have bills just like the rest of us. Expecting someone to drop everything for a 3-month, 20-game season may prove difficult. At least with the 36-game season, there was a longer time frame to drop your life and move to Halifax.
I guess we should remember that minor leagues are stepping stones for athletes. Our team was in a league that is just like many other leagues around the world and I get the feeling that players tend to bounce around, depending on the schedules of the various leagues. They are just trying to make a living and have to go where the jobs are.
I would be surprised if we see anyone come back from last year's team and until we get into the D League (and maybe not even then), we probably won't have many returning players who aren't Maritimers.
Unfortunately, Lewis has proven that he cannot develop young players, so local talent may decide to go elsewhere rather than waste time sitting on the bench.
In my opinion, we need a local coach who has ties to the universities that will draw recent grads to our team. Once we get our version of "Coach K" who is a draw for athletes to play for him, then we might be able to count on having some consistency to the roster.
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