So, folks, ready for a descent into the “dark side of B-Ball”? Here we go! Let’s start from the beginning. Professor Cesare Lombroso, an Italian criminologist who had his time in late 19th century, tried to relate certain physical characteristics, such as jaw size, to criminal psychopathology, or the innate tendency of individuals toward sociopathic and criminal behaviour. Herein, I’m trying to apply this theory to crimes against the GAME.

 

So, I’m proud to introduce you to… "THE LOMBROSIANS”!

 

They come mainly from the Greek league, and have common characteristics--like prominent chests, monkeyish walks--but most of all they kill you when you least expect it. When a Lombrosian comes in, please, do not flip your lids, he ain’t no ghoul from a cheap horror b-movie, do not switch the TV channel… there’s no mistake…just keep watching the match.

 

As an opponent, you usually think, when watching a Lombrosian walk in, you’ll place a break and put victory on ice. Well, the Lombrosians will wake you up in cold sweat hitting 3 or 4 consecutive three pointers, making HIS side fly away… And you’ll consider seriously quitting playing basketball.

 

 

Following, you’ll find my personal All-Lombrosian Team… think of a butcher, who barely shaves once a month:

 

Nikos Vetoulas, Aris

A heck of a trashtalker… against his teammates! Can’t make a single left dribble, without kicking the ball off the court… The Master of all Lombrosians…

 

Giorgios Tsirigotakis, Irakleio

All his hopes to score a basket are in fast break layups (right handed, of course). His three-pointer comes out directly from the palm of his hand, since no finger never touches the ball… 90 percent in airballs…

 

Hristos Petropoulos, Panionios

The ultimate Lombrosian. Seen filling a gap of 15 points, all by himself, against powerhouse Panathinaikos…As I said, when you least expect it… When Petro throws a brick from three-point range, the referee raises three fingers to the sky, as usual, but just to point out something falling from the ceiling…

 

Hristos Liggos, Irakleio

Center… Could barely intimidate Barbie… career best 4 blocked shots… in the whole 2002-2003 season, including friendly matches and pickup games against his younger sisters… Has a 4-inch shooting range…

 

Dimitris Papanikolaou, Panathinaikos

The most  famous one. Could play thorough defence… but he won’t. Can’t shoot from outside… but he will…

‘Nuff said…