2021 WBA Conference Finals predictions
by Timmy Frenchie
USA Conference
Brooklyn Rage vs California Fighting Cocks
(California won season series 4-0)
The Fighting Cocks haven’t lost a game yet in these playoffs. Even with the injury to Kurt Beck that left him out for the entire second round, California managed to sweep the Warriors. Thanks to Watt, Kincaide, and Szcygiel who all average 5 more points per game to pick up the slack in Beck’s absence. News is that Beck should be back to start the Conference Finals, as his sprained ankle is healing well. Unlike in previous rounds, his presence on the court is essential for this team to win the next series.
The Rage showed they are still elite in the second round, making fun of the Massacre. It was surprising and even unexpected to see how one-sided this series was. Even if Boston had won 3 out 4 regular-season meetings, Brooklyn showed no mercy winning all games by an average of 26 points. The Massacre had major trouble against the Rage defense, as they scored an average of only 91 points, 24 less than their season average of 115 points. Brooklyn just showed the entire WBA that they are not ready to give up the crown yet and that they can still shift the level of play to another gear when it matters.
While California dominated the regular-season meetings, winning all four by a combined 80 points, this must be taken with a grain of salt (See the previous paragraph). But California is not Boston. The Fighting Cocks have lots of savvy veteran experience, and this is their 3rd trip in the Conference Finals for the last 4 years. They also won all four games against Brooklyn this season, outscoring them by a total of 80 points. The Rage are a proud team and will battle until the last second, but the Fighting Cock will end this dynasty once and for all.
Prediction: California over Brooklyn in 7
World Conference
Paris Honeybees vs Albacete Burning Hell
(Paris won season series 3-1)
After furiously dispatching the Giants in game 1, the HoneyBees had to work harder in all other games of the series and even dropped one in Gabon land. Still, Paris was able to withstand all the opponent blows and stayed in control of the series from start to finish. Timmons was spectacular as usual, dishing 87 assists in only 5 games, including a career-high 27 assists gem in game 2. Eberle was somewhat effective but got banged around a lot by Giants’ twin towers. D-league MVP Kevin Whitlock had a great performance in game 5 to seal the deal, scoring 25 points in only 22 minutes.
The Snow Bears fought valiantly but they were still burned by Albacete firepower. Points are coming from so many directions for the Burning Hell, making it a nightmare for coaching staff to prepare an effective defensive gameplan. You must be aware of Jordan’s offensive prowess, but you cannot focus too much on him as his teammates will make you pay. It’s not unusual to see 7 Albacete players scoring in double-figures in a game.
The Burning hell management knew all season long that it would come down to this. A rematch of last year’s Conference finals where they got swept and shamed. They now have a chance at redemption. On the other hand, Paris is looking to get back to the big dance for another shot at the trophy. By looking at regular-season meetings, this should be closer than last year, but not that close either…
Prediction: Paris over Albacete in 5