The only thing more resilient, fierce and workman-like than longtime Lakers’ center Vlade Divac was his facial hair.

So what team name exemplifies the grit and determination required to win a Gus Macker title better than “The Beard of Vlade Divac.”

I’ve never seen Beard of Vlade play, but I know I wouldn’t step on the court to face them. I don’t even know who these guys are or where they’re from. If they’re half as nasty as the Serbian’s scruff, I don’t want to know.

It’s too bad most people won’t get the reference; Divac isn’t a household name. That’s what makes this so funny. And that’s why Beard of Vlade, an homage to a semi-obscure player’s player, is my favorite team name in this year’s tournament.

In a close second was “Victorious Secret.” Once again, no clue who these people are. But their simple wordplay is clever and priceless. God love a heady group of basketball players with a sense of humor.