Deaf Toros Bull Rushes Tulsa Hawks 88-51

The Austin Deaf Toros took on an eagerly waiting Tulsa Hawks of Oklahoma who were looking to pry open the strangle hold the Deaf Toros have had on SWBAD. The Toros have won three straight since 2006 and as far back as 2004 an Austin team has won SWBAD.  The Toros refuse to let go of its reins.

 

Once again the Toros jumped out to a quick start. Anton Jackson went straight to work early on hitting a layup in the lane to start off the scoring. Tulsa was without their biggest star in Tracy Willis who is now fighting professionally with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Willis poses a massive threat around the basket which was definitely missing from this Tulsa team. Jackson kick started the Toros in the early going.  He had a hand in the Toros first 12 points. During the early stretch he was 3-3 from the three point line tallying 10 points including a four points play.

 

During the next spurt Darnell Woods got into the act. Initially Woods took a back seat as Jackson ran amok of the Hawks. Woods then streaked his way to an eight point burst of his own including a 25ft bank shot to start the run. The Toros built a quick 15 point lead with the Hawks needing a spark to keep them in the ball game but the Toros would continue to deny them.

 

The Hawks made a quick run of their own after the Toros built a 25 point lead with 10 minutes left in the first half. Edwin Alexander led the charge with consecutive three pointers in transition. The Hawks kept chomping at the bit but were no match for the Toros speed and depth. Termiea Bowers and Luendran Hubbard teamed up in the backcourt and pretty much hosted their own track meet. Both guards used their quickness to get easy baskets on fast breaks infusing a spark in the Toros. Between the two point guards they combined 15-19 from the field for the game. The Toros took a 45-26 lead into the half.

 

In the second half the Toros kept the pressure on. Woods became a distributor and repeatedly found Yo Moore and Jackson for a variety of baskets. Moore took advantage of his opportunities finishing 4-8 from the field including a couple of misses at the tin cup. Moore said “I was surprised by the many opportunities I got down there. Most of the time I’m down there to clean up and collect garbage points. The guys were finding me and I made the most of my opportunities.” Moore is the hometown boy playing in familiar surroundings.

 

The Toros placed four players in double figures. Jackson was 12-15 from the field including a perfect 5-5 from the three point line finishing with 29.  Hubbard was 9-10 from the field and 18 points. Bowers 6-9 laying in 13 and 5 assist and Woods finished with 11 points and 9 assist.  For the game the Toros shot 59 percent from the field on 38-64 shooting which included 25 assist.

 

The Toros will have a rematch of last year’s final against Mississippi who presented the Toros with a bit of a challenge last year in Shreveport, La.

Austin Deaf Toros Dismantle Texaz Blasterz, 78-26

In their opening round game the Deaf Toros left no doubt who the number one seed of the 62^nd Annual SWBAD regional tournament. The game started off with the Toros scoring the first 11 points of the contest before the Blasterz called a time out to regroup after the first three minutes of play. Darnell Woods scored 8 of the first 11 points.  Woods capped the early spurt with a three-pointer and prior to that he scored on a three point play and another layup in transition.

 

The Toros used its superior speed to topple the Blasterz of Dallas. Anton Jackson and Termiea Bowers repeatedly found themselves leading fast breaks and finding an open Woods for easy treys from outside. Woods finished the night shooting 5-8 from the arc while leading all scorers with 23 points. Two other Toros scored in double figures, Jackson and Yo Moore posting 10 points apiece.

 

The entire bench was cleared for the first time this season with every player for the Toros scoring at last one basket.  Coach Larry Smith continued to push his squad to maintain and control the tempo. The Toros second unit was led by first year guard, Luendran Hubbard. Also, Ty Hubbard returned to give a spark off the bench. Both the Hubbards showed their mettle and overall speed and quickness in the open floor giving the Toros much needed depth.

 

Tomorrow at 9:15 am the Toros will face a hungry Tulsa team who will try to put up a major fight to reach the finals in the afternoon. The Toros should hold their own and be well rested and ready for the championship match.

Deaf Toros Seek a Four-peat at SWBAD

Once again it’s that time of year. United States Deaf Basketball make their splash with their own version of March Madness.  Regional tournaments are underway or in some cases completed.  Southwest Basketball Association of the Deaf will tipoff its 62nd annual men’s and 16th women’s tournament in Dallas, TX. 

The Deaf Toros are returning as three time defending champions and are favored once again to win for their fourth time in a row.  The Toros have managed to keep their core intact since their first championship. Led by Deaflympian, 6′3 guard/forward Anton Jackson.  Jackson is also a three time MVP of SWBAD. He’s proven year in and year out that he is in a league of his own.  Jackson is expected to lead the Toros in all facets of the game, scoring, rebounding and assist.

Teamed with Jackson you will find veteran point guard Termiea Bowers. Bowers has been a main cog for the Toros since his first year. He’s been a revving engine and has developed a strong game. Each season he has improved and it’s has given the Toros more confidence to compete at the national level.

Wiley veteran Darnell Woods, continues to man the shooting guard position. Woods is the team’s vocal leader and gives the team a lethal second scorer. The veteran guard has gotten in superior shape this year and looks to make a major surge both regionally and nationally.

In the post cagey veterans will solidify the paint with brute strength and determination. Yo  Moore and Shannon Simon will team up to provide the Toros with much needed muscle around the basket. Both have been solid role players over the years for the Toros but will be asked to take on much bigger roles with the absence of RJ Kaufman.

The reserves will feature a couple of young players with plenty to prove. William ‘Ty” Hubbard returns to Austin after being away for the last few years. He will provide depth at both the guard and post positions.  He’s a multi-skilled players who isn’t afraid to mix it  up. Along with Hubbard there will be a second Hubbard, Luendran, no relation. Luendran will give the Toros much needed speed at the guard position. He’s a flat our burner on the floor.

Cary McKeller, a 6′7 big man, will provide support to Moore and Simon in the paint. You can’t teach size and McKeller has plenty of it.  He and veteran Geoff Moore will manage the minutes of the reserve post players.  With help from second year man John McMahon.

Two first year players, Jimmy Solesbee is expected to log in a number of minutes at various positions in the front court to utilize his 6′5 frame and soft shooting touch. Solesbee is a veteran player who spent most of his early playing days with Houston.  To round off the roster is Henry Prince who will provide his support off the bench whenever called on.

The Deaf Toros will be coached by Larry Smith in his fourth season as the head man of this team. Smith is eager to get to the regional and can’t wait for his team to take home their fourth title.

Austin Seize 3rd Place in Orlando at USADB National Tournament

The Austin Deaf Toros took another crack at the annual USADB National Tournament.  After finishing fourth in the last two tournaments the Toros captured their highest finish in club history, third place.  This task was not an easy one as they were tested in every game.  In the first game against a young pesty Denver team the Toros stuggled to ignite a run to put them away.  In fact, Denver led in the early going by as many as eight points.  Battling sloppy play on both ends of the floor the veteran team was able to find whatever means necessary to pull away to their first victory.  The game didn’t end without a little bit of melodrama. Denver overcame a 14 point deficit three times during the final six minutes.  Finally they pulled within two with 35 seconds left.

Using a full court pressure defense Denver caused key turnovers in the Toros backcourt.  During one possession and leading by 4 the Toros faltered on the inbound pass and was picked off and laid in by Rob Sims.  Both teams struggled from the field but when it counted most the Toros converted crucial free throws down the stretch. Veteran Darnell Woods having one of his worse shooting performances connected on 4-6 free throws in the last minute despite going 0-7 from the three point line during the game. The Toroswere led by Anton Jackson and Chris Hamilton with 16 points apiece.  Jackson only 1-6 at the charity stripe. Termiea Bowers turned in 14 points but only 4-9 from the free throw line for the game.

The Toros were happy to get out of the first round.  It was the most competitive first round game they’ve faced in three years of existence.  Next up for Austin was Bridgeport of Connecticut.  Bridgeport cruised to a 14 point win over Arizona Desert-Storm in their first round win.  In the early going th Toros jumped out to an early 9-2 lead only to see it deminish and lose the lead.  Led by Ben Demario and Clement Lovelace, BPT team managed to take a seven point lead at the half, 38-31.

Once again, Jackson led the charge. He scored on fast breaks, slashes, mid range, and three point baskets.  The Toros stormed back in the second half after making a defensive adjustment.  They utilized a 2-3 match up zone that would crowd the middle limiting Demario from getting comfortable at the free throw area.  The Toros finally regained the lead with 12 minutes left in the game and never turned back. Using timely substitutions and fresh bodies the Toros were able to cruise to a much deserved win and moving on to the semi finals for the third consecutive year.

Jackson led all scorers with 26 points and 12 rebounds, Bowers had 16, RJKaufman had 14 and Woods finished with 12.

In the much anticipated third round game against the defending champions, East Zone, the Toros were up to task.  In the opening minutes the Toros jumped out to a quick start 7-2. Before long the DC team started to impose their strength in the paint with Mike Kent who scored at will around the basket.  Austin’s big men were in early foul trouble trying to tussle with Kent.  The Toros used a variety of defenses hoping to hold off and slow down East Zone but to no avail were they able to stop the on slaught of balance scoring.

East Zone begin to work on the perimeters with Luther Weedon, Sekoe White, and David Farias in transition.  The Toros were slow to respond but one match up East Zone had no answer for was Jackson.  Playing as if possessed with a basketball demon, Jackson single handily kept the Toros in the game.  East Zone held a 46-33 margin at the half keeping a lid on all of the Toros scorers, namely Woods.

In the second half theToros kept the score as close as they could in order to make a run down the stretch. Jackson weaved, circled, and pranced through East Zone defense. He tallied easy baskets, put backs, long threes, and hustle points. With remarkable guile and determination he pulled the Toros within five points three times with under four minutes.  Down 10 with 3:50 to go Woods knocked down a three following a three by Farias.  On the next possession Weedon attempted a three with from the right corner. During the attempt he ended up on the floor.  Kaufman was the only Toros in vicinity and a whistle was blown giving Weedon three free shots at the charity stripe. It was Kaufman’s fifth foul and the Toros had no answer from this point on.

It was a valiant effort by the Toros. Jackson scored 38 points and 15 rebounds and 5 steals.  He was supported by Woods with 13 points but only 4-15 shooting. Kaufman chipped in 8 points and Bowers six on 2-10 from the field. 

In the third place game the Toros faced Arizona Desert Fire.  Looking to revenge two consecutive losses at the nationals to AZDF the Toros kept things close and played with a vengence.  Struggling to establish a quicker tempo the Toros remained patient keeping the game close.  As always AZDF seemed to be waiting on the Toros to break down mentally as they have done in the past. Only this time to find a team with more heart and conviction not to be turned away.

Only trailing by one point at the half the Toros and AZDF traded baskets and lead changes numerous times.  Finally at the five minute mark the Toros seized the lead for good with layups by Chris Hamilton, Bowers and three pointers by Jackson and Woods respectively.  This run ignited a lead for 10 unanswered points. To keep the lead the Toros got major contribution from Kaufman who rallied the crew down the stretch with timely short jumpers and rebounds.  He finished with just seven points but each one was critical in the closing moments.

Jackson received much more help in this game offensively. He led all scorers with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Woods ended a weekend long shooting slump scoring 20 points and Bowers turning up with 13.

The Deaf Toros proved to be battle tested and the future of this squad is bright.  With the continued veteran savvy and youth they hope to return to the nationals taking bigger strides.  Needing a couple of more pieces to the puzzle they’re likely to make a jump to the championship game sooner rather than later.

SWBAD is Just Around the Corner

The annual regional tournament is just about to heat up. There is already a buzz about the participating teams in the mix.  Who will step up out of the pack and challenge the repeat champions the Austin Deaf Toros?  There are speculations that a couple of teams are up for the task.  The Deaf Toros are still a hungry bunch of ballers who look to prove their mettle and solidify their place in history as a dynasty in SWBAD regional history. 

Also for the two straight seasons Tulsa Hawks have finished a strong second and are destined to take their shot at the crown.  The Tulsa team brings a bit of flare and moxy with their team. They’re likely to remain at the top of the heap for those “playing for second.”  Until anyone proves otherwise the tournament will end in the same results as the two previous years.

Let’s take a look at the rest of the bracket:

Archie Savannah has brought back the Doughboyz of Texas. There are few questions about this squad’s athleticsm. David Webster is expected to lead this team along with Lurendran Blackice.  Both these young guards are quick and fast and presents a formidble backcourt.  As they say “speed kills.”  Also playing with the Doughboyz is Reggie Green. He is capable of making plays on a team that is likely a running team. The are no real post threats in the paint so rebounding and post defense might be an obvious weakness amongst them.

Dallas Fort Worth Texas Boyz were once two teams. Now they have formed one unit.  We can’t say much right now about the chemistry on this team.  They most recently decided to conjoin the two clubs. It looks as if they’re attempting to put together a team for the sole purpose to beat the Toros. Hmmmm, possible? Highly unlikely.

The Southern New Orleans team brings a gutsy crew. Last year they scrapped their way back in to the tournament despite being a year removed from the catastrophic hurricane Katrina.  There might be a surprise or two with this team. As mentioned they’re a scrappy bunch and relentless when faced with similar talent.

A team that’s steadily rebuilding is Houston All Stars. Every since the Untouchables’ demise there has not been much hype in the big city.  One of the best things about them is they stick together and have a competitive attitude. Look for them to be active but nothing more than the latter saying.

Jackson, Mississippi team has boasted for the last few years that they’re ready to make their next move.  With renewed dedication and youth this could be a team to watch for in the future.  Young and athletic but lacking in experience all around the board, it will be a while before they can prove they’re worthy of some serious consideration as regional contenders.

The Tulsa Hawks, two time runner-up of SWBAD. Led by their big guy and bruiser yet agile big man, Tracy Willis. Willis is expected to continue to lead the team in scoring and rebounding. He hasn’t had much help when the competition became strong.  The guard play for the Hawks will be significant for them to keep their second place status.

Finally, the two time champion Deaf Toros. Look for them to be crowned once again. Nothing in the region suggest they will lose any ground on anything they have established to this point.  Expect no less from this veteran crew who aspire to make a strong run at the national tournament in Florida. Rest assure they know their first task is to put an end to any doubters out there that they have lost a step.  The Toros will maintain their reign and come away with their third straight title in as many attempts.

The Deaf Toros are Back and Eager

The Austin Deaf Toros are set to bull their way through the SWBAD regionals tournament in a couple weeks.  Poised to maintain dominance at the 61st annual event in Shreveport, LA. The Deaf Toros will bring the core group that has also finished 4th at the USADB national tournament the last two seasons.

 Coach Larry Smith in his third season at the helm of the team has assembled a team which might have more depth than the two prior years.  Leading Scorer Anton Jackson returns with another year of experience. Jackson has become an outstanding player on the circuit. This past summer Jackson helped lead the USA Men’s team to a bronze medal in Guangzhou, China at the World Deaf Basketball Championship. Coach of the national team Keith Westhoelter said “AJ was the most consistent contributor on the team last summer.”  This is definitely the same Anton Jackson the Deaf Toros are used to having. Jackson has been their best player and athlete since joining the organization.

Also returning is veteran guard Darnell Woods. The ageless wonder continues to make an impact despite aging. Woods will continue to give his all whenever he’s on the floor. He has led the team in three point shooting and fills in at the point guard when needed. His vocal leadership is irreplaceable considering the quiet personalities the Deaf Toros has amongst the unit. Sharing the backcourt with Woods will be point guard Termiea Bowers.  Bowers has trimmed down physically to gain some old foot quickness from years past. Bowers along with veteran Chris Hamilton have combined to lead the team in assist. Both are active in their own rights when commanding the floor.

RJ Kaufman who has contemplated retirement but appears to be on a year to year basis will be a force around the basket yet again. It’s known that when March arrives madness turns into a form of tranquility for Kaufman. He has been the most consistent scorer in the paint. With a knack for being in the right place at the right time his services are much needed especially in the rebounding department. 

Coupling with Kaufman in the front court is Shannon Simon. At the nationals in Indianapolis last April Simon played a significant role defensively and rebounding. Understanding his role has always been his forte. He’s the Deaf Toros most consummate team player on the roster.  The two big men will play a vital role as the team progresses.

The Toros will probably be without an Austin favorite player due to an achilles injury. Yo Moore has been a major part of the organzation through the years. His hustle and relentless ability around the basket will be missed until he is healthy again.  The Toros gritty play and toughness is centered around Moore’s ability to command the paint regardles of his deminiature size.

Another proven veteran returns to his reserve role, Kelvin Etkie.  He chips in wherever needed contributing in a variety of ways. His versitality allows the Toros to use him the front and backcourt. Etkie has also shown the ability to knock down timely three pointers and collect loose balls when in position. Also, in reserve for the Toros will be Geoff Moore. He’s a mainstay over the last couple of years participating in all team functions, practices and games. Moore is a reliable contributor when called upon. 

Newcomers are expected to make the Deaf Toros an even more formidable group than before. Former Deaflympian, Frank Jackson brings his gangly repertoire to the Toros. Frank, the older brother to Anton, is the most athletic of the two Jacksons. He plays above the rim and possesses a deadly outside shooting touch.  Standing at 6′4 gives the Toros that added third scorer that will free up Woods and Anton even more than before.  Frank won’t be available until the national tournament due to legal issues being resolved.

Other newcomers for the Toros are Chris Chanin, a former Gallaudet reserve, Mick Freeland of Fremont, CA.  Both will contribute as much as possible when minutes are available. Cast no doubt they’re two sleepers for the Toros that cannot be overlooked.

Two former Texas School for the Deaf standouts have joined this verteran group to round out the 14 man roster. John McMahon provides added size and rebounding. He’s officially the rookie on this squad looking to start his young career off on the right foot. Evidently McMahon chose the Toros which places him head and shoulders above the other rookies out there. 

Last but not least, William Spencer completes this team. Spencer was expected to be a major contributor, providing athleticsm and speed. Due to a motorcycle accident last summer Spencer is nursing a bum knee which has been slow to heal. When Spencer returns to full strength he will be a lethal addition to the team.

The Deaf Toros begin tournament action on Friday, February 29, at 5:30pm against a team to be determined. As the number one seed the Toros have a bye in the opening rounds. Keep an eye open for new post ups on this site. The Deaf Toros will be stampeding through once again.

Spring Fever or March Madness?

Yes, it’s that time. All the talk about basketball and the downright highs of the month of March which is all but here. I’m chomping at the bit to cook up something to haggle over.  You know that barbershop talk is where some of the most subjective not to mention objective debates occur in the world of sports.  For us deaf folks we make use of modern technology.  Let’s get to the heart of the notion here. 

 Starting in the Farwest, some of you don’t know what the story is but a group of mavericks have disassembled the former Farwest Athletics Asssociation for the Deaf.  Dynamingles will not be putting their title on the line.  The favorite will be Arizona Dessert Fire, featuring David Hamilton and Gerald Brown.  They have group of young followers hoping to return the old guards back to the top of the heap once again.  Riverside Club for the Deaf led by Mike “Doc” Torres.  Doc also has surrounded himself with youth.  The two teams look to finish as one and two in the new USADB-FW region.  My pick here is AZDF in a nail biter.

In the Northwest Basketball for the Deaf region there appears to be parity up there.  Last year Utah Glaziers had put together a bomb squad of elite players which included Robert Roth and Robin Johnson.  Both have been searching for the right team for years.  This year the Johnson, Roth and Cory Fletcher have jumped ship and joined (ARCD) of Sacramento.  Bay Area Club for the Deaf  is still one of the favorites.  The transition of the trio expects to weaken the Glazier.  Look for BACD to return to the top and everyone else vie for second place.

Midwest Athletic Association for the Deaf is another region where parity seems to be an issue.  Year in and year out Kansas City seems to win.  Led by Ron Wyatt and his clan. Robert Love has joined St. Louis along with Chris Woodside.  Omaha have lost the big kid in the middle, Eldin Dorn now with Indiana (GDIC).  The prediction here is KC will win it and St. Louis will place second.

Now that I mentioned Dorn I might as well jump to the Central Athletic Association for the Deaf (CAAD).  Indiana has been the perennial favorites for the last few years especially since the demise of the old Chicago team.   Chicago is back.  Only now they will suit up with WSAD-Orange.  Kevin Smith, Shawn Stringfellow, and Brenton Holliday take their numerous national championship experience and combine it with some hungry young bucks.  They’re hoping to remove the crown from GDIC. Prediction, Brian Bippus and his crew will roughshod through this region.  With the national title up for grabs the only thing on the minds of these Hoosiers is winning it all.

Let’s move down south.  In the Southwest Basketball Association for the Deaf (SWBAD),  Austin Deaf Toros have won the last two years.  Over in Dallas the youngsters have put together a strong group with thier sole purpose, end the Toros streak.  Okay, I’m in a biased state here.  The Toros and reigning MVP, Anton Jackson will win handidly.  Dallas and Tulsa will play for second place, no questions asked.

Over in the Southeast Athletics Association for the Deaf (SEAAD), Carolina will be given a run for their money. Another Carolina team, Wilson Athletic Association for the Deaf (WAAD), was put together to oust SEAAD’s greatest club ever.  Henry Dorsey and Howard Gilbert have joined forces to put an end to Carolina’s strangle hold on the title. Look for Orlando to play a role in this mix.  This will be a region to watch. Prediction, Fred Thompson, Tim Teeters, and Mark Hedrick will walk away with the crown once again.

In the East Athletic Association for the Deaf (EAAD), a new breed of ballers fresh out of college look to upend New Jersey with Dee Brown and Vernon Lane.  Washington, D.C., East Zone featuring Robert Haney, Cy Saunders and Matt Johnson.  This group went to Indiana and beat up on the old guys of GDIC.  Pulled out a close game, winning by 7.  This puts them in the forefront as national contenders.  Look for them to take the east but not without a fight. New Jersey has a group of veterans that expect to make East Zone earn everything.

Finally, in the Northeast Athletic Assocation for the Deaf (NEAAD), Bridgeport owns this region.  Led by Ben Demario and Justin Brooks, this duo will try to get them past the second round at the nationals. Their only competition will be either Vermont or Providence. Both teams don’t possess much firepower.  It will be pretty much be a cake walk for BPT. 

 There you have it.  Of course you probably think, “what does he know?” I’m just a measley old writer blogging about everything and anything.  It’s time to dance and the parties are about to get under way.  I’ve got my ticket to the dance.  Do you have yours?

A Taste of Southwest History

March is creeping up on us with each passing day.  For generations we have encountered some of the most thrilling moments during these times. No, I’m not going to pull any punches here. I’m itching to feel the madness. I’m not much of a history  buff myself but I do put things in persepective that requires some historical reflection.

You all know that the Southwest Basketball Association of the Deaf and other deaf club regions are about to push full throttle for regional superiority.  Down here in the southwest there’s a bit of history of how things once were.  The 60th Annual Regional Tournament for SWBAD has a long list of had-beens and used-to-be.  For instance, in the inaugural season of then known, Southwest Athletic Association of the Deaf (SWAAD), a team from Houston won the region decisively.  Defeating San Antonio 58-33 and Dallas 96-30.  I’m assuming the region only had a hand full of members.  After that year there was only one winner for the next 12 years, Little Rock.

Most definitely you can call this a dynasty.  Little Rock upended the Houston team in 38-36.  This had to be a thriller of a game. Not only did they win that game by two but in their opening game they pulled off another two point win over Dallas, 72-70.  One can only imagine the excitement in the gym that weekend.  The home team keeping their fans on the edge of their seats.  For the next 12 years there were only a few challenges amongst their dynasty. Little Rock held steadfast and stood upright.

During those 12 years six championship games were against Dallas and five versus Houston, respectively. Both those clubs for years ended up on the bitter end of defeat. You can only fathom what the deaf region felt like every year that Little Rock won another title. Like most clubs, people hate to see the “same” winner. The haters grow more and more against the dynasty. Fans start to get sick of it and want a new winner. While those players winning want to keep sticking it to their opponents and proving regardless they are indeed the team to beat. Ruthless, isn’t it?

 Again, I’m not a history buff but I assume from what little knowledge I do have the famous Clyde Nutt was on a majority of those teams. I’ve heard stories from the old-timers about Nutt. He was an all around athlete and always a winner.  He’s one of the most endeared deaf athletes during his day.  Clyde also had a deaf brother Houston who provided addition support during Little Rock’s hey days.

From 1949-1960 Little Rock dominated the southwest region. Over 60 years they were crowned champions 20 times, the most recent coming in 2003. I’m pretty sure Little Rock hopes to channel back through time and dig out some of those past victories.  No club has matched their dominance over the years. The closest to acheiving this feat is the Houston club with 14 Southwest titles. 

During the early ’80’s Houston won six straight and seven of eight during a stretch.  Still noone was able to match what Little Rock had done. Dallas did manage to win a hand full of titles and they too had their on stretch of wins. They won sparingly over the years but nothing like the aforementioned clubs.

Who will the next dynasty of the SWBAD?  Can history be repeated? Will any club match 12 straight titles? All of these questions are debatable but only can be answered one way, on the hardwood floors of the SWBAD Regionals Tournaments.  Bring on the MADNESS!

Austin Deaf Toros Basketball

 

 The Austin Deaf Toros basketball team resume their second season together under the name.  Coached by Austin’s own Lawrence Smith.  Smith helped put together a formidible group of ballers who won their respective region, Southwest Basketball Association for the Deaf (SWBAD), last year.  The Toros went on to place fourth at the national tournment held in St. Louis, MO. 

 The Toros are led by a mixture of young and old players.  Headed by 24 years old,  forward/guard Anton Jackson.  Jackson hit the national spotlight with a bang. With an array of skills, he was depended upon to carry the team.  He’s in his second year with the Toros and third season on the deaf club circuit.  Jackson is looking to continue his SWBAD most valuable player performance this year at the regionals.  Leading the team in scoring and rebounding was expected from the team’s best player. 

Complimenting the young stud Jackson is veteran shooter, Darnell Woods.  Woods is in his second stint with Austin, having won the SWBAD (SWAAD) MVP in 1995. Woods going into his 15th season carries a long list of accolades which include four national championships, a gold medal with Deaflympics in 2001, and a silver in the World Deaf Championships in 2002. Having played on the east coast for a majority of his career,  Woods has adapted to the southwest style of play.  Woods leadership is unmeasureable yet he still manages to keep up with the ages at the ripe age of 37 (38 in March).

Joining Woods in the backcourt is Chris Hamilton. Hamilton another veteran trying to capture another championship, having winning his first in 1996 for the Maryland Stars.  Hamilton brings a heady game.  A native of New York, he affords a great deal of hard nose play, possessing a knack for making open jumpers and finishing hard drives at the basket. 

Another backcourt mate for the two veteran guards is the quick and fiesty point guard, Termiea Bowers of Houston, TX.  Bowers has played on the circuit for 10 seasons, this is his second year with Austin.  Having led his Houston Untouchables for as many seasons, he made the change to make his nationals aspirations come true. Bowers attributes to the squad is constant energy and push.  He makes things happen when he’s on the floor.  He’s most dangerous in the open court when chances avail to create for himself and others running with him. Bowers has grown over the years and continue to improve with each opportunity.

In the front court there are a several key guys that are expected to carry the load around the rim.  RJ Kaufman is a key here. Near the basket he has the ability to make the game that much easier for other rebounders.  Along with Jackson, Kaufman has to the ability to score double-doubles in both scoring and rebounding on any given night.  Struggling with age Kaufman is reserved to the fact he no longer has the desire to play as often.  His play shows otherwise. He’s the once removed MVP of SWBAD, helped save a game into overtime at the nationals last year. Showing shot blocking ability in crucial a moment. With the game on the line Kaufman block the shot of Carolina’s giant, 6′9 Tim Teeters, from behind to seal the win in the waning moments.   When the moment arrives Kaufman will pull his end of the deal.

Also in the front court is a pure picture of toughness, “Yo” Moore. Moore not much of a scoring threat but the intangilbles he contribute are thankless works of bodily sacrifice.  Moore provides rebounding against all shapes and sizes. The diminutive foward only stands at 5′11 possesses a heart many men twice his size lacks.  Moore in his 13th season continues to search for that elusive first national championship.

 Alex Tyler of Mississippi is a well traveled players around the southwest region.  Formerly of East Memphis, Little Rock, Houston and now Austin. Tyler has been to the nationals with each of his former team. In his first stint with Austin, he hopes to make this the most extensive trip to the national tournament.  Listed at 6′4, the forward/center brings, rebounding, scoring, and shot blocking to a team in need of all three.  Tyler runs the floor well and plays above the rim. He’s a one time Deaflympian in 1997 and the reigning rebound and scoring champion for SWBAD.

Kelvin Etkie returns for another season with Austin. Etkie is a reserve guard. He possesses a lethal outside shooting touch.  Etkie brings a positive approach to the team and takes full advantage of his opportunities.  Another reserve returns to the his former mates, David Tomlinson.  Tomlinson is a dead eye shooter with gritty defensive skills.  He too will be a reserve for either of the guard slots.

 The most valuable reserve with the most credential to his resume, Shannon Simon.  Simon has played on five national championship teams.  He’s used in reserve role and his experience is always needed.

 Two othe reserves round off the squad, Geoff Moore and Archie Savannah. Both will be used sparingly.  These two guys are most commited to assisting the club in everyway possible. Moore stands at 6′5 has improved over time and expects to crack the playing rotation.  Savanah will vie for time on the court.  He’s a valued contributor in practice weekly. 

Look for the Toros to bring their best each time they touch the floor. They feel they can play with anyone. SWBAD is just around the corner like all other regional tournaments.  March is truly madness.