Abrams fizzing for next year - Murray Hills 19/12/2011
Veteran forward Link Abrams reckons he has one more season of top level basketball in him.
The 38-year-old, who has signed up again with the Taranaki Mountain Airs for the 2012 National Basketball League season, wants it to be a good one.
"I want one last go," he said on Saturday. "I enjoyed last season and feel like I've got one more year in me."
Abrams, who left yesterday to visit family and friends in the United States, said his own form last season was mixed.
"I played well at times. At other times I felt I was just getting used to things again. Probably the two-year break, a little bit of rust."
The two-year break Abrams was referring to was because of injury – he ruptured the patellar tendon in his right knee in the opening game of the 2009 season, with the recovery taking longer than expected. "I'm still getting used to how the body feels after practices and games," he said.
"I know now how to rest my body and I know how to look after myself a bit better."
He didn't see age being a factor.
"I feel good and the desire is still there. My knee is fine."
Abrams, who teaches maths at New Plymouth's Spotswood College, said the Mountain Airs played some good basketball last season. "We had a really good group of guys, but I thought we could have performed a little better. We came right too late. Most of our games were exciting, but that's not what you're after ... you want wins."
Abrams said he was excited about the talent signed up for next year, with imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson both quality shooters and backed up by Aaron Bailey-Nowell and Chris Daniel.
"Jack, he's fantastic. He's a lot better than I thought he would be.
"He's a great team player and can shoot the ball. I enjoyed playing with him," Abrams said.
"Darryl, his stats speak for themselves. Aaron is Aaron, he works hard and Chris has always been an up-and-comer. He's hitting his straps now."
Abrams said things were looking good. "It's pretty exciting.
"If we give it our best shot, we'll have a good chance."
He was also impressed with first-year coach David Bublitz.
"It was a big step up for him from coaching schoolboys. But he was open to all the guys. He said he was learning and I think he learnt a lot," Abrams said. "He's very approachable and I think he could have an outstanding coaching career."
While basketball was his sport, Abrams said his real passion was NFL football. "That's what I love.
"It's my favourite sport, I just didn't grow big enough to play it," he said. "I'm from Arkansas and the closest state with a team is Dallas. I follow the Dallas Cowboys." Abrams said he had tickets to the Cowboys' game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Christmas Eve. "I've been to about 10 games but this one is in a new stadium in Dallas, the capacity is between 95,000 and 100,000. I can't wait, I'm ready to go."
Taranaki Basketball chairman John Kensington said he was stoked to have Abrams back for another season.
"When he came back last year he started on the bench and we thought if we could get five minutes out of him per game, it would be great. By the end of the season, he had played his way back into the starting five ... he's a competitor," Kensington said.
"The thing is, Link's a hungry player. Every time you go down the court, he'll take the ball. He wants to play. He says: give me the ball and I'll score for you."
Kensington said Abrams' experience was invaluable.
"The other guys can learn so much from him. He's got so much knowledge. I'm pretty excited about what's going to happen with this team in 2012."
- Taranaki Daily News
The 38-year-old, who has signed up again with the Taranaki Mountain Airs for the 2012 National Basketball League season, wants it to be a good one.
"I want one last go," he said on Saturday. "I enjoyed last season and feel like I've got one more year in me."
Abrams, who left yesterday to visit family and friends in the United States, said his own form last season was mixed.
"I played well at times. At other times I felt I was just getting used to things again. Probably the two-year break, a little bit of rust."
The two-year break Abrams was referring to was because of injury – he ruptured the patellar tendon in his right knee in the opening game of the 2009 season, with the recovery taking longer than expected. "I'm still getting used to how the body feels after practices and games," he said.
"I know now how to rest my body and I know how to look after myself a bit better."
He didn't see age being a factor.
"I feel good and the desire is still there. My knee is fine."
Abrams, who teaches maths at New Plymouth's Spotswood College, said the Mountain Airs played some good basketball last season. "We had a really good group of guys, but I thought we could have performed a little better. We came right too late. Most of our games were exciting, but that's not what you're after ... you want wins."
Abrams said he was excited about the talent signed up for next year, with imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson both quality shooters and backed up by Aaron Bailey-Nowell and Chris Daniel.
"Jack, he's fantastic. He's a lot better than I thought he would be.
"He's a great team player and can shoot the ball. I enjoyed playing with him," Abrams said.
"Darryl, his stats speak for themselves. Aaron is Aaron, he works hard and Chris has always been an up-and-comer. He's hitting his straps now."
Abrams said things were looking good. "It's pretty exciting.
"If we give it our best shot, we'll have a good chance."
He was also impressed with first-year coach David Bublitz.
"It was a big step up for him from coaching schoolboys. But he was open to all the guys. He said he was learning and I think he learnt a lot," Abrams said. "He's very approachable and I think he could have an outstanding coaching career."
While basketball was his sport, Abrams said his real passion was NFL football. "That's what I love.
"It's my favourite sport, I just didn't grow big enough to play it," he said. "I'm from Arkansas and the closest state with a team is Dallas. I follow the Dallas Cowboys." Abrams said he had tickets to the Cowboys' game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Christmas Eve. "I've been to about 10 games but this one is in a new stadium in Dallas, the capacity is between 95,000 and 100,000. I can't wait, I'm ready to go."
Taranaki Basketball chairman John Kensington said he was stoked to have Abrams back for another season.
"When he came back last year he started on the bench and we thought if we could get five minutes out of him per game, it would be great. By the end of the season, he had played his way back into the starting five ... he's a competitor," Kensington said.
"The thing is, Link's a hungry player. Every time you go down the court, he'll take the ball. He wants to play. He says: give me the ball and I'll score for you."
Kensington said Abrams' experience was invaluable.
"The other guys can learn so much from him. He's got so much knowledge. I'm pretty excited about what's going to happen with this team in 2012."
- Taranaki Daily News
Chris Daniel latest to sign for Taranaki in NBL - MURRAY HILLS 10/12/11
The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place for the Taranaki Mountain Airs ahead of next year's National Basketball League competition.
With imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson already signed along with captain Aaron Bailey-Nowell and big man Mada Adbelamid, Kiwi guard Chris Daniel has been added to the playing roster.
"It's a significant signing for Taranaki," said Mountain Airs coach David Bublitz yesterday. "Getting a New Zealander of that ability to come here sets things up nicely for next year."
Bublitz said having Daniel, a 1.97m guard, agree to terms with Taranaki gave his side more scoring power.
"Chris is a good perimeter shooter. He gives us shooting power. We've finally managed to address a problem New Plymouth sides have had in previous seasons. We've had no-one to back up Jack."
Bublitz said while the three-point shooting exploits of Leasure were well-known, Daniel and Hudson both added to the mix.
"It's going to be a nice combination. Chris, like Jack, is more an outside shooter who can knock down the three-ball. Darryl slashes and gets to the hoop. It's going to take the pressure off Jack."
Bublitz said a few other teams were chasing the 26-year-old Daniel.
"He's originally from Nelson where he played for the Giants and he's been with the Bay Hawks for a couple of seasons, starting for them in most games last year."
Bublitz said he was positive about Taranaki's chances in the league next year. "Things are going nicely with the players we have signed. Hopefully we can get the rest of the team sorted in the next few weeks," he said.
"We may be a bit smaller than this year without Marcus [big man American Marcus Campbell], but we'll look to run the ball a bit more and get up and down the court quicker. Hopefully we can play an attractive style of basketball the crowd likes."
Bublitz said he expected veteran forward Link Abrams to play again. "He's been coming along to practices and he's looking forward to next year."
With imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson already signed along with captain Aaron Bailey-Nowell and big man Mada Adbelamid, Kiwi guard Chris Daniel has been added to the playing roster.
"It's a significant signing for Taranaki," said Mountain Airs coach David Bublitz yesterday. "Getting a New Zealander of that ability to come here sets things up nicely for next year."
Bublitz said having Daniel, a 1.97m guard, agree to terms with Taranaki gave his side more scoring power.
"Chris is a good perimeter shooter. He gives us shooting power. We've finally managed to address a problem New Plymouth sides have had in previous seasons. We've had no-one to back up Jack."
Bublitz said while the three-point shooting exploits of Leasure were well-known, Daniel and Hudson both added to the mix.
"It's going to be a nice combination. Chris, like Jack, is more an outside shooter who can knock down the three-ball. Darryl slashes and gets to the hoop. It's going to take the pressure off Jack."
Bublitz said a few other teams were chasing the 26-year-old Daniel.
"He's originally from Nelson where he played for the Giants and he's been with the Bay Hawks for a couple of seasons, starting for them in most games last year."
Bublitz said he was positive about Taranaki's chances in the league next year. "Things are going nicely with the players we have signed. Hopefully we can get the rest of the team sorted in the next few weeks," he said.
"We may be a bit smaller than this year without Marcus [big man American Marcus Campbell], but we'll look to run the ball a bit more and get up and down the court quicker. Hopefully we can play an attractive style of basketball the crowd likes."
Bublitz said he expected veteran forward Link Abrams to play again. "He's been coming along to practices and he's looking forward to next year."
Open Trial
Taranaki Mountainairs are having an open trial this Saturday, 26 November 2011 at TSB Stadium, from 10am to 2pm. For further details contact John Kensington on 027 234 4460
Mada's back for Mountain Airs - Murray Hills
Mada Adbelamid is a confirmed starter for the Taranaki Mountain Airs in next year's National Basketball League.
"He's definitely coming back," said Mountain Airs coach David Bublitz yesterday. "He really came on as a player for us last season and made a massive difference at practices. His energy levels were outstanding and by the end of the year he commanded court time."
Bublitz said Adbelamid grabbed the opportunity on court.
"In one game, in a short period he scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds," Bublitz said.
"When Daryn (assistant coach Daryn Shaw) and I sat down at the end of the season, Mada was one of the first guys from out of town that we both wanted back. The good thing is, he wanted to come back."
With imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson already signed, Bublitz said things were shaping up well.
"Link (Abrams) has confirmed he wants to play but has yet to sign and Auntie (Aaron Bailey-Nowell) is pretty much a done deal."
One player who won't be with the Mountain Airs next season is point guard Zane Meehl.
"He's quite a loss. It was unexpected. After he said he was definitely coming back, he's signed with Manawatu. It's pretty disappointing."
The good news for Bublitz is the increased numbers turning up to informal practice sessions in New Plymouth.
"There's a few guys who have played for Taranaki in the past turning up for scrimmages and they have expressed an interest in playing next year," said Bublitz. "With more local guys showing interest, it could solve an issue or two for us."
Bublitz said the scrimmages – on Tuesdays and Thursdays – began this month and an open trial will be held on Saturday.
"Hopefully we'll get about 15 players along to the trial at the TSB Stadium on Saturday at 10am," he said.
"There maybe even a couple of guys who have played for Waikato coming down."
"He's definitely coming back," said Mountain Airs coach David Bublitz yesterday. "He really came on as a player for us last season and made a massive difference at practices. His energy levels were outstanding and by the end of the year he commanded court time."
Bublitz said Adbelamid grabbed the opportunity on court.
"In one game, in a short period he scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds," Bublitz said.
"When Daryn (assistant coach Daryn Shaw) and I sat down at the end of the season, Mada was one of the first guys from out of town that we both wanted back. The good thing is, he wanted to come back."
With imports Jack Leasure and Darryl Hudson already signed, Bublitz said things were shaping up well.
"Link (Abrams) has confirmed he wants to play but has yet to sign and Auntie (Aaron Bailey-Nowell) is pretty much a done deal."
One player who won't be with the Mountain Airs next season is point guard Zane Meehl.
"He's quite a loss. It was unexpected. After he said he was definitely coming back, he's signed with Manawatu. It's pretty disappointing."
The good news for Bublitz is the increased numbers turning up to informal practice sessions in New Plymouth.
"There's a few guys who have played for Taranaki in the past turning up for scrimmages and they have expressed an interest in playing next year," said Bublitz. "With more local guys showing interest, it could solve an issue or two for us."
Bublitz said the scrimmages – on Tuesdays and Thursdays – began this month and an open trial will be held on Saturday.
"Hopefully we'll get about 15 players along to the trial at the TSB Stadium on Saturday at 10am," he said.
"There maybe even a couple of guys who have played for Waikato coming down."
Mountain Airs pair to lead again - Murray Hills
David Bublitz and Daryn Shaw will combine again to lead the Taranaki Mountain Airs in next year's National Basketball League.
It will be the second year for the coaching duo, with Bublitz in the head coach role and Shaw as his assistant.
"We're stoked to have them on board for a second year," Taranaki Basketball chairman John Kensington said yesterday. "It's getting some continuity with our coaching staff."
Kensington said he was happy with the way the side performed this year.
"We started to make some headway towards the end of the year. If we can start how we finished, things look good."
Kensington said both were very approachable.
"David has a good relationship with the players and his style of play is one that people like.
"Daryn gets alongside the players. He's been there and knows the game," he said.
"Crowd support was fantastic and the crowd got behind the team."
Kensington said Taranaki was keen to play a fast game next year and that was one reason why popular import and big man Marcus Campbell was not signed for a second year.
"He was a very good player and the crowd loved him," Kensington said.
"But he wasn't quite quick enough for the game plan we wanted to implement."
Bublitz said he had really enjoyed his first year in charge.
"It's definitely been a learning curve. I've learnt a lot and still have a lot to learn," he said. "The things we put in place midseason helped us get better. I've really enjoyed the camaraderie in the team and enjoyed working with men ... most of my coaching has been with school teams. It's nice to have a change."
Bublitz said working with Shaw was easy.
"Daryn is outstanding. His knowledge of the game is excellent and he's a great communicator. When he says something, it's poignant. Both of us understand it's good to have a tight unit."
Taranaki Daily News
It will be the second year for the coaching duo, with Bublitz in the head coach role and Shaw as his assistant.
"We're stoked to have them on board for a second year," Taranaki Basketball chairman John Kensington said yesterday. "It's getting some continuity with our coaching staff."
Kensington said he was happy with the way the side performed this year.
"We started to make some headway towards the end of the year. If we can start how we finished, things look good."
Kensington said both were very approachable.
"David has a good relationship with the players and his style of play is one that people like.
"Daryn gets alongside the players. He's been there and knows the game," he said.
"Crowd support was fantastic and the crowd got behind the team."
Kensington said Taranaki was keen to play a fast game next year and that was one reason why popular import and big man Marcus Campbell was not signed for a second year.
"He was a very good player and the crowd loved him," Kensington said.
"But he wasn't quite quick enough for the game plan we wanted to implement."
Bublitz said he had really enjoyed his first year in charge.
"It's definitely been a learning curve. I've learnt a lot and still have a lot to learn," he said. "The things we put in place midseason helped us get better. I've really enjoyed the camaraderie in the team and enjoyed working with men ... most of my coaching has been with school teams. It's nice to have a change."
Bublitz said working with Shaw was easy.
"Daryn is outstanding. His knowledge of the game is excellent and he's a great communicator. When he says something, it's poignant. Both of us understand it's good to have a tight unit."
Taranaki Daily News
Hudson signs with Mountain Airs - by Murray Hills
Two players ejected for a midcourt stoush four months ago will team up for the Taranaki Mountain Airs in next year's National Basketball League.
Manawatu import Darryl Hudson and Taranaki captain Aaron Bailey-Nowell clashed when the sides met in New Plymouth and both were marched from the stadium.
Yesterday, Taranaki coach David Bublitz confirmed Hudson and sharpshooter Jack Leasure had signed for next season, as had Mada Adbelamid.
Bailey-Nowell said he was looking forward to teaming up with Hudson, a 26-year-old 1.96m guard.
"What happens on court, stays on court. I haven't spoken to Darryl since, but hopefully he'll forgive me and I will forgive him," he said.
"I can definitely see myself playing with him. He's a pro, one of the quickest guys around and a quality player. He's a tenacious defender and hopefully he will be a good fit for our side."
Bailey-Nowell said while he hadn't signed for next season, he was available.
"Fingers crossed we can get something sorted. I definitely want to play again. I've spoken to Dave and I'll keep the body in shape over summer. I want to win a championship with Taranaki ... we need something like that."
Bailey-Nowell said the aim now was to sign a big man to replace American 7-footer Marcus Campbell.
"Rebounding wins games and hopefully we can pick up a quality Kiwi big man to clean up the boards."
Bailey-Nowell said having Leasure back was a big plus.
"He can shoot the ball and he works so hard. I'm excited about next year."
Bublitz said Hudson brought both leadership and experience to the team.
"He's got a sound record in the league and brings some tenacity, as we saw this year with his scuffle with Auntie [Bailey-Nowell]. He doesn't like to lose, which is important," Bublitz said.
"He's also a good scorer and defends well."
Bublitz said the hunt was on for a Kiwi big man.
"We're going with two American guards. We've got Auntie and Mada and hopefully Link [Abrams]. We're after one more big man, someone who can defend the paint, get rebounds and be a role model for us."
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Manawatu import Darryl Hudson and Taranaki captain Aaron Bailey-Nowell clashed when the sides met in New Plymouth and both were marched from the stadium.
Yesterday, Taranaki coach David Bublitz confirmed Hudson and sharpshooter Jack Leasure had signed for next season, as had Mada Adbelamid.
Bailey-Nowell said he was looking forward to teaming up with Hudson, a 26-year-old 1.96m guard.
"What happens on court, stays on court. I haven't spoken to Darryl since, but hopefully he'll forgive me and I will forgive him," he said.
"I can definitely see myself playing with him. He's a pro, one of the quickest guys around and a quality player. He's a tenacious defender and hopefully he will be a good fit for our side."
Bailey-Nowell said while he hadn't signed for next season, he was available.
"Fingers crossed we can get something sorted. I definitely want to play again. I've spoken to Dave and I'll keep the body in shape over summer. I want to win a championship with Taranaki ... we need something like that."
Bailey-Nowell said the aim now was to sign a big man to replace American 7-footer Marcus Campbell.
"Rebounding wins games and hopefully we can pick up a quality Kiwi big man to clean up the boards."
Bailey-Nowell said having Leasure back was a big plus.
"He can shoot the ball and he works so hard. I'm excited about next year."
Bublitz said Hudson brought both leadership and experience to the team.
"He's got a sound record in the league and brings some tenacity, as we saw this year with his scuffle with Auntie [Bailey-Nowell]. He doesn't like to lose, which is important," Bublitz said.
"He's also a good scorer and defends well."
Bublitz said the hunt was on for a Kiwi big man.
"We're going with two American guards. We've got Auntie and Mada and hopefully Link [Abrams]. We're after one more big man, someone who can defend the paint, get rebounds and be a role model for us."
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