A Battle for Second?

TEMPE OPEN:  Fall 2018 Season Preview 

By Dakota Browning-Dudley | Tempe Media Associate

With the formation of Fine Wine, basketball’s newest super-team, it looks like Tempe’s Open league may just be a formality.  Much like the Warriors of the NBA, Fine Wine can only call this season a success with a dominating run to the championship.  However, they will definitely have to work for it, as there really aren’t any bad teams (Death Row wya?).  Lets take a look at some of the keys for this upcoming season.

“Resurre-X-on”

X-Over is back.  Fielding a strong lineup featuring an abundance of not only talent but also plenty of valuable experience/wisdom, X-Over will be no joke.  I X-pect a lot from this team, their week 1 matchup with Fine Wine could easily be a championship game preview.

Bertand is Back

It looks like Arizona’s most overrated player has decided the retirement life is getting old, just like him.   From the looks of things at the moment, only Lionel, JW, and Darycke have the size to hang with the big fella.  Steve teaming up with Juice and constant championship contender Christian Bower forms a pretty solid big 3. 

More than an Athlete

Unlike LeBron, this team wants to just Shut Up & Play.  I love the inside outside combo of Lionel with Zach, that combo should have any defense sounding the alarms.  Rob Armenta and old head Steven Wess should give this team a respectable backcourt as well.

Back-to-Back

Coach Tavi will be trying to do his best Drake impression on his quest for back-to-back banners. 

Award Predictions

MVP

Donté Medder: Coming off a championship last season, Donté will have to be on top of his game if we are going to see a Peanut Butter & Jelly repeat.

Defensive Player of the Year

Curtis Millage: 3 & D players are in high demand right now, and Curtis is one of the best.  He’ll be in his comfort zone with Fine Wine, clamping up and leaking out for transition 3s.