Rakeville Times: Center of Attention

Al Horford rises above defenders to pull down a rebound. He is one of three blue-collar centers who have propelled Rakeville to the top of the EHBA.




Center of Attention
By Aviator McShadeless, Rakeville Times

Their names rarely top the sports page, and their game is often overlooked by their opponents, but the trio of centers in the Crows front court have been anchoring Rakeville’s meteoric rise through the standings while the high scoring forwards and franchise point guard garner the praise.

In the wake of a 8-1 victory over fellow playoff contender Colorado, Samuel Dalembert, Andrew Bogut and Al Horford are finally getting the recognition they deserve. Taking on arguably the best front court in the EHBA, the Crows big men out blocked, out rebounded and out worked the star-studded lineup of Tim Duncan, Dwight Howard and Brad Miller.

“They are the workhorses of this team,” said Guard Steve Nash. “They allow us guards to play fast and loose on defense knowing that there is a defensive wall behind us. If you’re going to score on our front court, you’re going to earn it.”

Taken with the 90th pick in the draft, Dalembert has led the charge toward the postseason. He is fourth among all centers in blocks, and leads Rakeville in rebounding with his tenacious work in the paint.

“We knew we were getting a shot blocker in Dalembert, but the points and intangibles have been a huge bonus,” said team president Tim Legler. “It is why we are a playoff team, and championship contender.”

Those words couldn’t be said earlier in the season, but now Rakeville has locked up a playoff spot and are only 2.5 games out of a bye. With cellar dwellers Tijuana and Fitchburg remaining on their schedule, slipping past Boston and Dublin for the second spot may be a reality.

“People look at the schedule and think we have it in hand,” said Forward Rashard Lewis. “Nothing is guaranteed in this league. A lot of people though playing us was a sure win a few months ago. I don’t want to make that mistake too. The Foo Fighters can play, and the Madadors are tough. Much tougher than that other Tijuana team who are changing their name. Sissies.