The D-Fenders 2016-17 regular season was one for the ages, as they bowed out early in the first round of the playoffs at the hands of the Rio Grande Vipers (2-1). In their two losses to the Vipers, one at home and one on the road (OT), the D-Fenders had staged a valiant comeback effort but fell short.
The disappointment was all over their faces and in the tone of their voices post game. Vander Blue escaped out of the back door, hopefully, to meet with one of the NBA Scouts.
The LA D-League team ended the season with a record of 34 wins and 17 losses.