Redfield-Umaechi smack talk builds into ASG

Redfield-Umaechi smack talk builds into ASG

By Rich Smith | FSPN

ALBANY, NY -- Frump Coliseum - After the Albany Alphas' Tuesday loss to the Pittsburgh Keystones- Albany’s reporters caught up with Rodger Umaechi (Husky, F) and asked what he thought about Dylan Redfield (Red Deer, F) ‘calling him’ out for the All-Star game. Earlier in the week, the young buck had taken to Twitter, calling the upcoming exhibition a ‘revenge’ game from the Bikers’ 35 point December loss to the Alphas. The All-Team Husky put up 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists in the blowout.

When Roger was questioned on if he had any words back to Redfield- He responded with: “You know - I think Dylan is an excellent player. He's very talented and he's gonna be a star one day..." There was a hesitation in the dog’s voice as he trailed off, then a sudden smile as he continued – "However, he's not on my level yet."

When pressed further by Albany local media, the 2012 FBA MVP added fuel to the fire by eluding that the Red Deer shouldn't even be there.

“Really, Carl Esteban is carrying The Arctics I was kind of surprised he didn't get in.”

Given another chance by the media to explain or take back his statement that Dylan wasn't on his level, he'd stand by his statement... politely! "He's a talented player. I'll leave it at that."

Last year, Dylan Redfield sent waves through the FBA in his slashing of Shane Rufus (Wolf, G) - Earning himself an 40 game suspension (later reduced to 20 games) and questions on his future status in professional sports. Since then, the deer has come back strong- establishing himself as an emerging star by earning the FBA’s January Player of the Month award and tying the husky in total All-Star votes. Much of the ‘Revenge’ conversation stems from statements made by Big Red after Dakota’s early December loss to the Alpha’s. Post-game the buck lost his temper after guarding the husky and the Red Deer lashed out on twitter.

Umaechi later spoke in reference to the twitter bashing: "Well now, I suppose it's flattering that his biggest complaint is I'm hard to guard and frustrating him defensively as well. I mean, I don't mean this as a boast but, I did win an MVP award. And you don't win those by being easy to guard. I would, however - if I could offer advice - lay off the teammate bashing, saying this guy didn't do his job, that guy didn't box out. That's not very professional. But again, that's just my view. He can take it or leave it. He's a bright kid, I'm sure he'll figure it out."

Roger Umaechi and Dylan Redfield are opposite starters for tonight’s 2014 All-Star Week game for the Eastern and Western Conference. The Dakota Bikers and Albany Alphas have their regular season rematch set for March 23rd at Sofawolf Stadium.