Palm Beach Imperials Make Debut in ABA Power Rankings

In what has been an up and down season, the Palm Beach Imperials have battled back to make their first appearance the ABA's Top 24 Power Rankings.

[USPRwire, Tue Feb 20 2007] The Imperials, who are now ranked (24) in the league, have been gaining momentum since the departure of guards Bobby St. Preux and Anthony Hatcher.

"It was no secret; we had a big logjam at the guard position," commented Dan Mangru of the Imperials. "Although we were sad to see Bobby and Anthony leave, our team is playing much better basketball since their departure. All of our guys are getting consistent minutes and elevating their games."

Key to the resurgence of the Palm Beach Imperials, aside from the consistent play of Carl Jenkins (one of the ABA's top rebounders), has been guards Rolando Hall, Lamar Moore, and Chauncy Davis.

During the month of February, Hall has been posting All-Star numbers averaging 23 Points, 7 Assists, and 3 steals per game. Moore and Davis have also become consistent 20 point scorers.

Also helping lead the Imperials as of late, has been the play of center Badi Oliver and Lavasiyea Freeman.

"Badi and Lavasiyea have brought a real toughness to our team," said Mangru. "Just last game Badi Oliver had 6 blocks, most of which he sent into the stands. He and Lavasiyea have really stepped up our defensive intensity, which is something we weren't getting before."

The Imperials were riding a 3 game win streak going into last Saturday's game with rival Jacksonville Jam (Number 4 in the Power Rankings). Yet even with the loss at Jacksonville, the league has taken notice of the quality basketball being played by Palm Beach.

"It's good to see that we are getting some recognition," stated Mangru. "Our players are top level and we play in the toughest division in all of the ABA. When you look at the fact that the majority of our games have been against Top 5 ABA teams, you can see the difficulty of our schedule and the level that our guys have played at all year. Now with the playoffs coming soon, we are looking to take all of that experience from the regular season and make a strong run for the ABA championship."