Draft:Columbus Ga Vipers

Columbus Ga Vipers are a professional basketball team headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, and are active participants in the Pro Basketball Association (PBA). Renowned for their consistent performance, the Vipers engage in year-round competition, featuring prominently in both the summer and winter seasons of the PBA. Home games for the Vipers are held at the esteemed Kenneth B. Walker Gymnasium (KBW) located in Columbus, Ga. With a remarkable track record, the Vipers have maintained a national ranking since the inception of the PBA, culminating in their prestigious titles as the 2023 Summer Season and 2023-2024 Winter Season National Champions. Additionally, the team boasts the honor of being crowned 5-time Southeast Regional Champions, further solidifying their status as a dominant force within the league.

History
Angela Culliver, the esteemed owner and former head coach of the Columbus Ga Vipers, initiated the establishment of the Vipers in September 2021. This transformation involved rebranding both the Columbus Blackhawks and the Georgia Hornets, thereby birthing the formidable Columbus Ga Vipers. The genesis of this rebranding endeavor stemmed from a divergence between the co-owners of the team, which prompted the overhaul of the Columbus Blackhawks. Notably, the Georgia Hornets had previously showcased their talent in the Minor League Basketball Association (MLBA) during the summer of 2018. Transitioning to the American Basketball Association (ABA), the team operated under the moniker Columbus Blackhawks during the autumn seasons of 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, until the ownership parted ways. Subsequently, with the advent of the Pro Basketball Association (PBA) announcing the inception of both summer and winter seasons, the Vipers embarked on a year-round competitive journey. Initially participating in the PBA under the name Columbus Blackhawks during its inaugural season, the organization embraced the transition to compete as the Columbus Ga Vipers. Presently, at the helm of the Vipers stands Dr. Tasha Mahone, serving as the revered head coach.

2021 Summer Season:
Before adopting their current name, the Columbus Ga Vipers, the team competed in the Pro Basketball Association (PBA) as the Columbus Blackhawks. During the inaugural season of the PBA, the Blackhawks made an indelible mark, securing a national ranking at an impressive #3. Their exceptional performance culminated in clinching the Southeast Regional Championship title, achieved by triumphing over the Music City Jazz with a decisive score of 116-97 on September 5, 2021. Despite their formidable showing, the Blackhawks encountered a setback in the semi-finals of the Final Four held in Dallas, Texas, where they were bested by the New York Generals with a score of 114-97. Nonetheless, the Columbus Blackhawks concluded the season with an impressive record of 12 wins and 3 losses, solidifying their status as a formidable contender in the PBA arena.

2022 Summer Season:
The Columbus Ga Vipers demonstrated their prowess once again, culminating with an outstanding record of 12 wins and 1 loss. Continuing their dominance, they secured the title of Southeast Regional Champions for the second consecutive year by overpowering the Dothan Snipers with a commanding score of 104-82, thus earning their ticket to the prestigious Final Four. Despite their formidable efforts, the Vipers faced disappointment for the second consecutive season at the Final Four held in Dallas, Texas. Their quest for the National Championship was thwarted by the NM Bluetails, resulting in a final score of 86-97. Nonetheless, the Vipers concluded the season with an overall record of 12 wins and 2 losses, maintaining their notable national ranking at 3rd place for the second consecutive year.

2022-2023 Winter Season:
Determination to secure their place in the PBA National Championship, the Vipers embarked on the season with a resolute mindset. The vipers would start the season red hot defeating teams such as the River Region Generals, Southwest Florida Blazers, and the Tennessee Speed. Following their triumph in clinching the Southeast Regional Championship for the third consecutive year after defeating River Region Generals, the Vipers arrived in Dallas, Texas, with a clear mission in mind. Their journey to the national championship began with a convincing victory over the KDC Bombers, sealing their spot in the championship match.

However, their aspirations were met with formidable opposition from the reigning champions, Fort Worth F.I.R.M., who asserted their dominance in the national championship encounter. Despite their valiant efforts, the Vipers fell short of their ultimate objective, conceding the title to Fort Worth F.I.R.M. and concluding the season with a commendable record of 16 wins and 2 losses. Despite the setback, the Vipers finish nationally rank number 2.

2023 Summer Season
Entering the 2023 PBA Summer Season with a determined resolve, the Columbus Georgia Vipers embraced the challenge of proving their championship credentials. With Dr. Tasha Mahone assuming the helm as head coach, the Vipers embarked on an intensive offseason regimen, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of excellence.

Their diligence and commitment bore fruit as they concluded the regular season perched atop the national rankings, setting the stage for a formidable postseason campaign. The Vipers clinch for a second consecutive season a title shot awaiting the PNW Vets. . In a thrilling showcase of skill and resilience, the Vipers clinched victory in the National Championship Game, overcoming the PNW Vets 116- 110, with a commanding performance. Led by the stellar contributions of Finals MVPs Cornelius Thomas, Cortez Chaney, and Alquan Mendenhall, the Vipers secured their status as the 2023 PBA Summer Season National Champions, etching their names in the annals of basketball glory

2023-2024 Winter Season
The 2023-2024 PBA Winter Season proved to be a defining period for the Columbus Ga Vipers, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence on the basketball court. With an unwavering determination, the Vipers dominated the competition, finishing the season with a flawless 12-0 record. Led by their seasoned floor general, Cortez Chaney, the team displayed exceptional cohesion and skill in every game. Their victories were not merely confined to the scoreboard but reflected their commitment to disciplined gameplay and strategic execution. Throughout the season, standout performances from players like Yurmon Barnes, Anthony Daniels, and Alquan Mendenhall further solidified the Vipers' status as a force to be reckoned with in the league. Despite facing formidable opponents, the Vipers maintained their composure and tenacity, emerging victorious in each matchup. The season was not without its challenges, yet the team's resilience and unity propelled them to unprecedented success. As they celebrated their perfect season, the Vipers reaffirmed their position as one of the premier teams in the PBA, leaving an indelible mark on the league as back-to-back PBA National Champions. With their eyes set on future triumphs, the Vipers demonstrated that their pursuit of greatness knows no bounds.

Television
The Columbus Ga Vipers basketball games are televised with play-by-play commentary on all smart devices (Roku, Amazon Fire, YouTube, IOS, and Android) through the PBATV app and YouTube channel.