D-League All-Star Candidates: Centers
by Matthew Brennan, D-League.com
The inaugural Gillette D-League All-Star game takes place at NBA Jam Session on February 17, at 2 p.m. PT. Since there are a lot fewer centers to choose from than guards and forwards, there are only a few from each division who can be considered strong candidates. The All-Star starters will be announced on Tuesday, February 6th.
Eastern Division
Luke Schenscher, Fort Worth Flyers
Schenscher has started every game for the Flyers this season after finishing up 2006-07 as a member of the Chicago Bulls. The 7-1 Australian is having a solid season with 10.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. He is one of only two players who have played in all 23 games for Fort Worth this season, playing a major role in their league-best 16-7 record.
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Colorado 14ers Garrett Elwood/NBAE/Getty Images |
Reiner has been a mainstay in the post for the Skyforce, averaging 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks. The 6-11 center from Iowa's rebounding average places him fourth overall in the D-League. He is the only member of the Skyforce to start all 26 of their games this season, leading Sioux Falls to a solid 15-11 record. Like most of the D-League's center candidates, Reiner has NBA experience as a former member of the Chicago Bulls.
Western Division
Peter John Ramos, Idaho Stampede
The D-League's biggest player at 7-3, 287 lbs., Ramos has been a presence for the Stampede this season as they have surged to the top of the Western Division standings. The former Washington Wizard has contributed on both ends of the court, ranking fourth in the D-League with 1.4 blocks while also scoring 13.8 points (.545 shooting) and 6.6 rebounds. He has also been very durable for a big man, starting all 25 games for Idaho this season.Rick Rickert, Colorado 14ers
Rickert is one of the league's top sixth men, scoring 12.4 points with 6.4 rebounds off the bench for the 14ers. He is also an outstanding shooter, connecting at .513 (115-224) from the field and .848 (78-92) from the free-throw line. Rickert has only started five games this season, but his solid numbers compared to other Western Division centers should give him a shot to start in Las Vegas.
