OU Splits First 2 Games in 2010

Reading, MA - It's been an exciting off-season for Origins Unknown since they were last seen shuffling around the hardwood at the Burbank YMCA. Cap'n Mike and Doubleteam Dan Rasanen both added baby girls to their respective families. And, of course, the team enjoyed a six-week break where they tirelessly worked on their stamina and hoops skills.

In their return to the court, OU squared off against their recent nemesis - Kickin' Time. Not much about the teams had changed since KT ended OU's season last year with a 10 point win. In fact, that's pretty much exactly how this game went as well, as OU was downed once again by the well-rounded KT team.

OU played decently at times, and was always within 5 points - but was never able to quite get over the hump. Each OU player made key mistakes as the game wore on, and KT capitalized on some late turnovers to keep control and get the win. "We played pretty sloppy tonight," said Cap'n Mike. "But, the it's a long season and we'll continue to improve."

OU's second test came against Stiffler's Mom, who provides an interesting match-up for OU. Minus Big Dan, OU's front line looks a little meek compared to the 6'3", 6'5", 6'6" group that SM trots out. But, this deficiency is also an advantage in OU's case. While SM was able to abuse the good guys on the blocks from time to time, they also had a difficult time matching the speed and inside-outside game that OU threw at them.

Although the stats would show that OU gave up too many offensive rebounds, they also converted on many of the forced turnovers by their ball-handlerless opponents. SM's very capable big-man was kept in check by James "Stretch" Hogan IV, who played a possessed game on both ends and OU gained ground by trading threes for twos at certain points, also shooting well from the charity stripe. The game was physical and no picnic for the refs, as the teams seemed to take issue with many of the calls.

After building an eight point lead in the second half, and seeing it evaporate with less then 4 minutes remaining, OU dug in their heels and willed their way to victory. A key jumper at the top of the key by Danger Dan Fisher, followed by Brian Jonesy and Cap'n Mike going 4-4 from the line down the stretch, led to the three point win.

The split gives OU a 1-1 start in the league, which is stacked top to bottom yet again with talent.