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WEEK 2 PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Player Spotlight #2, Donyell Matrell of the Chicago Lightning.

17.0 RPG, 4.3 BPG, 19 PPG in 3 games of USIBL Season 2

BY: Sean Pratten

Donyell Matrell has been a beast since the beginning of the USIBL. He has dominated every team from rebounding to tellin them to "Get out of my house" on a daily basis. Losing to Buffalo last year in the East Finals has only fueled Matrell to kick major ass this year.
With the addition of Stee V. FranchiZe and Mick Domas to go along with superstar SG Magic Jordan, PG John Payton and Matrell Chicago looks to cause Buffalo major trouble come play-off time.
After 3 games, Matrell has continued his dominating presence, averaging 17.0 rpg and 4.3bpg. He is also a good scorer getting 19 ppg. Matrell is a fierce competitor and likes to bang inside and do he dirty work for the Chicago Lightning. He would be my 1st choice of a Defensive player because of his heart and determination. Chicago may be cold and be the "Windy City" but inside the Lightning Den lies one fierce lightning bolt.

Interview with Donyell Matrell

Spotlight: Great start, 3-0 who do you think has surprised you so far this year?

Matrell: In my opinion, Honolulu has put together some solid games from some virtually unknown players. If they keep improving like they are, they could do well and go far. Troy Hutson certainly has the Missiles ready to play ball.

Spotlight: Tell me your thoughts on Stee v. Franchize hes in the top 3 in ppg.

Matrell: Franchize played in the NBA for 5 years for the Rockets. He knows the game and is right up there as one of the best pure-shooters in the league. He would still be in the NBA except for his knee injuries, but I'll tell you, the Lightning are certainly happy to have Stee on the team. A great player and a great leader.

Sportlight: You have played extremely well leading everyone in rebounds per game, and in the top in blocks per game tell me what has kept you focused, if anything to keep working as hard as you do?

Matrell: My game centers around defense, it is my job to deny and harrass every player on the opposing team. This Chicago team has the offensive firepower that enables me to concentrate on what I do best, and that's defense and rebounding. I go into every game with the mind-set that, "this is my house, do not enter" hahaha

Spotlight: I know its early 3 games in but right now tell me your MVP and why of the USIBL

Matrell: Of course I'm partial to my boys, so I feel that Magic Jordan has got to be considered. However, Ja & Greg K. are having great years so far. I must say that Ja has carried the Freeze like Iverson carries the Sixers, and if he gets the help that he needs from the other players in Alaska, like he did today, then the Freeze will be extremely tough, and Ja will be a top consideration when the MVP is handed out.

Spotlight: The Buffalo Braves beat you last year in the East Finals, I know you have revenge on them, but you think this year will be your year?

Matrell: Coach Zack Zidane, has the team very focused and with Payton as the floor general, we have the opportunity in every single game to compete and to win. But, it's a long season, a lot can happen, and we will give it.

Spotlight: A little name association.

Spotlight: Just tell me 1st word that comes to mind.

Matrell: K

Spotlight: Magic Jordan

Matrell: Purely mr. basketball

Spotlight: J-LO

Matrell: sexy babe

Spotlight: Drake Nolurskin

Matrell: My friend and bro. dominant

Spotlight: Buffalo Braves

Matrell: rivals, competitors, sportsmanship

Spotlight: Chicago as a city

Matrell: it's COLD out there. haha

Spotlight: Alright last question......Give me your USIBL Playoff Predictions...you can be indepth if you want to

Matrell: WEST: St Louis, Alaska, Honolulu. The Crusaders are struggling without UZI being at the top of his game but they are still the best, while Ja is finally getting some help, and Troy is quietly making Honolulu into a respectable team. S_Mac can't carry San Diego by himself, and OJ isn't quite focused enough at this point in the season for Oklahoma. EAST: Chicago, Buffalo, New Jersey. NJ will be tough, but Chicago and Buffalo will fight it out again. Of course, just my opinion, and I wish the whole league the best of luck. Of course,the Lightning will win it all. They have "THE ENFORCER" hahahaha

Spotlight: Alright thanks Donyell and goodluck in the rest of the season

Matrell: Thank you