With a very heavy heart, Rocket Science has traded away 31-year-old Roberto Carbón on 5/1/2011.
Roberto first donned a Rocket Science uniform back in season 13 and made an immediate impact, putting the team on his back and carrying them to an early lead in the standings. Later that season, Roberto was joined by lifetime friend Božidar Medur. Together, Roberto and Božidar provided an unmatchable inside-outside scoring punch at the pivot and small forward positions, and outlasted the grueling 3-games finals over long-time rival Chaos Lords to finally victoriously raise the coveted DIII.I championship cup.
After promotion into league II.1, Roberto continued to form the core of the Rocket Science squad over the subsequent 3 seasons. Off the court, Roberto’s quiet and reserved personality kept his teammates loose and relaxed, but on the court, Roberto’s infectious aggressiveness and enthusiasm was the fire that pushed the team to exceed expectations every season. Matched against centers commanding salaries more than twice his pay and referees who mistook his gusto for attitude, Roberto initially faced growing pains and succumbed to early frustrations by fouling out of too many games.
Regardless, he continued to average double-doubles in limited action, and during scrimmages, trained new-comer and fellow countryman Farruco Ventoso so that Farruco could effectively back him up off-the-bench. Farruco, skilled but shy by nature, was inspired by Roberto even early on and eagerly anticipated the day when he would be able share the court alongside his mentor – he was the first to break down when he heard about the trade.
With age comes experience and wisdom, and early into season 16, crafty Roberto had continued to develop. He learned how to use his skills to outwit bigger centers, and was averaging 27 points and 14.3 rebounds per game, while limiting his turnovers and fouls. In his last game as a Rocket Scientist, Roberto scored 21 points on 9 of 17 shooting, grabbed 18 rebounds, and blocked 5 shots. He also added 2 steals.
Rocket Science bids Roberto a fond farewell and wishes him continued success. If the club can somehow raise enough capital to sustain his salary and if fickle fate grants a smile when she next gazes, then team management would love for a reunion in the future.
Season 16 - 27.0 PPG; 14.3 REB; 53.7% FG; 80.0% FT;
Season 15 - 14.1 PPG; 10.0 REB; 52.7% FG; 83.3% FT;
Season 14 - 13.9 PPG; 9.9 REB; 49.3% FG; 78.3% FT;
Season 13 - 13.8 PPG; 12.8 REB; 58.3% FG; 87.6% FT;
Last edited by rocket.science at 5/2/2011 2:19:16 PM