Tom Hersz

When you’re introduced to the NBA as a 6 year old in 1984, staying up late to watch Bird, Magic and Dr. J, it’s pretty hard not to fall in love with the game. I became consumed with the Association, and as my own game was developing, I tried to emulate as much as I could at an early age and learn how to play “the right way”. I have memories as a teenager of being glued to Saturday Basketball on TV and spending every spare cent I had on basketball cards and replica jerseys and so began my obsession with NBA knowledge and stats. I played my first season of Fantasy Hoops in 2002, as my serious playing days were slowing down. I now play in 5 or 6 leagues every year. To say I’m obsessed with Fantasy Hoops would be an understatement. To say I love nothing more than sharing my opinion on a player’s value would be entirely accurate, and I guess, the reason why I’m here.

Follow me on twitter: @tomhersz @downtownball

Boomers Look to Wrap up Group Stage with Win over Venezuela

Boomers Look to Wrap up Group Stage with Win over Venezuela

The Boomers’ resiliency this tournament has been nothing short of impressive. After suffering a disappointing loss to the U.S., you could have forgiven them for being slightly disinterested against China. It was a game Australia was expected to win easily and one they’d play without starting centre Andrew Bogut, who was being “managed” (a.k.a. rested) through some knee discomfort. “No… Read more →

Boomers Look to Roll Over China

Boomers Look to Roll Over China

It was the game that stopped a nation, as all eyes in Australia were fixated on a sparkling performance giving testament to just how far Australian basketball has come. The Boomers went toe-to-toe with Team USA, and if not for an all-world shooting night from Carmelo Anthony, might have just pulled out the win. Afterwards, there were mixed feelings. The… Read more →

Dare to Dream: Boomers vs. USA

Dare to Dream: Boomers vs. USA

Boomers vs. USA Preview The Boomers are in great shape on their quest for gold in Rio after two resounding wins against their biggest rivals for second place in Group A. Now comes the biggest test of exactly how far our boys can go. The Boomers will face the U.S. in group play at 8 a.m. AEST on Thursday. “Everyone… Read more →

Next Boomers Victim: Serbia

Next Boomers Victim: Serbia

After an amazing win against France in the opener, things will likely get a little tougher for the Boomers. In fact, this game may be the most important of the group stage as it could determine whether Australia finishes second or third in Group A. Another win and the Boomers are all but assured to avoid Spain in the quarter-final crossover…. Read more →

Boomers Open Olympic Campaign vs. France

Boomers Open Olympic Campaign vs. France

It’s no secret that the Boomers have only one thing on their minds in Rio: stepping onto that podium and winning the first ever Olympic medal for an Australian men’s team. On paper, we have our best team ever assembled, but that means little once the ball is tipped. Even after a less-than-ideal series of warmup games, largely without Andrew… Read more →

Getting a Reputation

Getting a Reputation

The NBL is a small league where everyone knows each other and teams have long memories. Make one mistake and it will be forgotten, but mess up again and you’ll have a harder time shaking a particular label. There are only so many chances in life and right now, BJ Anthony is out to prove that he deserves another in… Read more →

The Best (Pre-Cap Rise) Contracts in the NBA

The Best (Pre-Cap Rise) Contracts in the NBA

Head still spinning from the value of all these new NBA contracts? Still struggling to figure out how $16 million this July is the same as $10 million just a year ago? Imagine how the players who locked themselves up in the past year or two are feeling now. Like Malcolm Turnbull after calling for a double dissolution election nine… Read more →

Downtown’s 2016 NBA Mock Draft 3.0

Downtown’s 2016 NBA Mock Draft 3.0

If the NBA Finals left you wanting more, you’re not alone. It might take a while to come down from the high we got from that epic Game 7. For the third straight year, an Australian has walked away with a ring, giving us reason to be proud and Delly an excuse to celebrate. It’s also fuelled the debate on… Read more →