Playoff action in the IM 3-on-3-basketball tournament started last night in the Intramural Building. Teams that had advanced on from league play last week were penciled in to the bracket. In the playoff bracket, single elimination was implemented.

League play took place December 4-7. Those games determined who would move on to play in the Finals tournament last night and tonight.

Games were slow moving to start, but as time progressed, teams became more confident in their decision making and teamwork. Overall, play was fast and fluid with a major emphasis on defensive precision. Action was heated as players showed frustration at some of the referee's calls. In one instance, a hard foul led to pushing and shoving, along with a bloody nose, stopping the game for a considerable amount of time.

A common theme in the tournament seemed to be dominant post play. This was exhibited to perfection by Team Clarkson, led by its big man, Paul Clarkson (freshman - Communications).

Clarkson was a low post presence snatching rebounds and blocking shots.

Having a significant size advantage over all other players on the court, Clarkson showed his versatility by making a number of perimeter shots along with a number of running lay-ups, helping his team to a first round victory.

"They couldn't really cover Paul so we ran it through him", said fellow teammate Russell Mapes (sophomore - DUS).

Game strategy is crucial even in 3-on-3 basketball. Teams with a good idea of their strengths and weaknesses had a sizeable advantage going into a game against a less-prepared opponent.

"Exploit the mismatches, if anything. Whoever was feeling it, I just got them the ball", said Team Clarkson point guard Bruce White (sophomore - DUS).

Endurance would also prove to be a necessary asset, as many teams would have to play multiple games; as many as three in one night without any substitutes or a significant time gap between games.

When asked about their thoughts on the rest of the tournament, Team Clarkson showed cautious optimism.

"Yeah, we should be alright," said White, before walking back into the gym to prepare for their next game.

The playoffs will conclude with the championship game tomorrow night at the IM building.