Team Profiles of TWO of the VA SHOWDOWN CHALLENGERS!
BULLETS
The SHOWDOWN's only out of town team this year, the Bullets are definitely eager to make an appearance and that is something that the AABL squads should worry about. These Richmond representatives will get a warm welcome on the first day of play-- they are the only team to have four games on the first day, facing all four in-town teams.
The Bullets do have some AABL players on their squad that have made impressive impacts in the past 2008 Season. G Shinobu Nagata was the AABL's Asian Baller of the Year, displaying flashy yet steady ball handling, a consistent outside shot, and a flair for dramatic passing-- and he was getting better in the playoffs. Not as flashy but just as effective (if not more) G/F Scott Yun provided on-court leadership and a surprisingly explosive all-around game.
Not much more info we can offer here about the Bullets. Without disclosing too much info from a conversation I had with the team contact, this should be a very well rounded and experienced travel squad that has picked up some tough ballers from the Richmond area. It will be a great opportunity to add some new, talented competition to the mix and further promote the AABL format of play to the rest of VA. Some out of town teams have been hesitant on participating because they are unfamiliar with the rules and the competition level. Which is understandable because the AABL has developed some tough teams that have improved throughout the years. Big up to the Bullets for coming down and accepting the SHOWDOWN challenge! Good luck!
BULLETS ROSTER: Bashir Ammoury, Tarek Ammoury, Mike Anderson (N), Michael Chu, Cory Lail (N), Josh Lee, Jan-Michael Mayor, Viva Pham, Brian Tran, Shinobu Nagata, Scott Yun, Krizzio Washington
VENOM
Venom is known to have the most random roster of players from game to game during AABL league play. No matter what new players they suit up, the core group of this team always gets the job done with tough but intelligent basketball. With a good all around game and a lot of game experience, this squad could be a big surprise at the SHOWDOWN.
Venom prefers to play a more down-tempo team which prefers to run a half court offense, although they will take the opportunity to beat a lazy defense upcourt. They have big bodies that can bang and dominate the paint. F/C Nic Torres has a good post up game but can also face up and hit the three. F Jay Asnar crashes the boards effectively and has some surprising moves at times. G Art Ayson brings years of world class basketball experience to the gym. G Cocoy Marasigan and Mike Marasigan offer good court leadership, ball handling, and perimeter shooting. Venom usually plays a laid back zone defense until they feel the need to turn the pressure up. Venom is always physical in the paint and battle for every possession.
This is another team with plenty of basketball experience. Expect every game from Venom should be competitive from start to finish.