RETURN OF THE KING
Top gun Caguioa returns to Ginebra
By Francis Thimsel J. Ochoa
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:19:00 09/26/2009
Filed Under: Basketball, Philippine Basketball Association (PBA)
CASUALLY SEATED on a plastic chair at the sidelines of the Greenmeadows gym, Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico took a long, hard look at the player that one of the Kings’ trainers was rubbing down and stretching.
“He’s not a hundred percent yet,” the soft-spoken mentor said, “but he’s improved a lot since he first practiced and it’s comforting knowing that we can play him once the season starts.”
The player, of course, is Mark Caguioa, the unquestioned top gun of Barangay Ginebra who missed an entire season because of a patellar tear and watched the Kings plod their way to one quarterfinals and one finals appearance.
The 6-foot-1 firebrand agrees with his coach’s assessment, but, Caguioa said, he needs a little time.
“As the season goes [on], I can get back to being ‘The Spark,’” said Caguioa, referring to the moniker attached to him for most of the seven seasons he spent in the PBA—all with Ginebra.
“[But] in the beginning, I don’t think I can play the way I’d like to play.”
Caguioa missed the entire 2008-09 season because of the knee injuries, a year after averaging 19.8 points (third in the league), 4.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 32.1 minutes per game on the way to being named to the mythical first team.
Without his best offensive option, Uichico somehow managed to steer the Kings to a quarterfinal stint in the Philippine Cup and a championship appearance in the Fiesta Conference, where they forced a powerhouse San Miguel squad into a seventh game before yielding.
And with Caguioa—who has worked out with the team for the past month-and-a-half—back in the fold, expectations are naturally high.
“It’s always good to have Mark fit and ready to play but as far as our chances go this season, it really depends on the really strong teams like Talk ‘N Text, San Miguel, Alaska and Purefoods,” said Uichico.
“Those are the teams that can really contend for the two championship slots and we will just go out and try to steal one of those slots,” he added.
Caguioa also doesn’t expect the Kings to be on top of the list of favorites just because he’s finally suiting up. But he knows that his presence will make a difference.
“I never put pressure on myself; never put pressure on my team,” he said. “I’m not that kind of person. I’m just a laid-back chill kind of guy. It’s not saying that I don’t care. It’s just how I play the game. The more you put pressure on yourself, the more you get nervous.”
“But I know that if I’m a hundred percent, we have a chance to win the championship.”
Currently, Caguioa is working to get into peak condition.
“He’s around 80 to 90 percent ready,” said assistant coach Art dela Cruz. “His timing is there and he just has to get his legs back.”
As the players huddled around Uichico to wrap up practice, there was a palpable sense of optimism that emanated from the mass of red jerseys. And although there were a host of new faces in that huddle, there was no denying where all that hopefulness burst from.
Uichico, sitting casually on a plastic stool at courtside while the lights were being killed, was staring right at him.
Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20090926-226995/Top-gun-Caguioa-returns-to-Ginebra
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Singapore Slingers 72-77 Ginebra Kings
Defense wins games and the Ginebra Kings brought plenty of it as they edged out the Singapore Slingers 77-72.
By Vincent Lai
Small forward Mark Caguioa top-scored for Ginebra with 24 points, with the athletic guard Ronald Tubid adding 15 points and six rebounds.
Kyle Jeffers led the Slingers with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Michael Leblanc, making his Challenge Series debut, added 19 points and 12 rebounds of his own.
Ginebra started the game swarming on D, clogging up the lanes, closing the channels and helping each other on the perimeter.
Every time Singapore guards Al Vergara or Hong Wei Jian drove into the paint, the smaller lineup of the Kings descended on the invader, often coming up with a steal or deflection.
The defence fuelled their running game, leading to easy points on the break. Mark Caguioa led the Kings with seven points in the first period.
Singapore had a harder time coming by points in the half-court set, but still managed to score through Kyle Jeffers and three-pointers from Vergara, Wei Long and Wei Jian, led to a 19-17 finish of the first quarter, advantage Ginebra.
The Slingers' usual surge at the beginning of the second quarter failed to materialise as the Kings continued to clamp on defence. Ginebra managed to continue their first quarter lockdown as Singapore were shackled for a good five minutes.
However, Ginebra's enthusiasm on the defensive end may have been a two-edged sword, as Enrico Villanueva picked up two quick fouls that led to the Kings' faithful jeering in unison. Hong stepped up sank a smooth trey after Villanueva's infraction.
The teams then exchanged baskets as Ginebra began to tire and the Slingers finding their range, the opposite of their game with the Smart Gilas Pilipinas.
However, the Kings did not panic after going behind a Vergara go-ahead three with three minutes to go, their veteran savvy showing as they worked the rock round the perimeter to find Caguioa open for a trey.
The Slingers went into halftime with a 40-34 lead, behind Leblanc's efficient 14 points in the second period on 75% shooting, all within the offence without a play called for him.
Singapore returned to the floor with an emphasis on slowing down the game, running the offence through Jeffers as the Slingers tried to cut down on their turnovers. Jeffers scored six points in the third.
The Kings countered by giving Eric Menk, Billy Mamaril and Ronald Tubid license in the post. With Tubid lighting up Michael Wong for eight points as the quarter wore on.
Ginebra also relied on Villanueva for the third, as the burly forward went to work.
Slingers coach Frank Arsego was forced to call a timeout with two minutes to go in the third to cool off Tubid's offensive explosion, and also inserted Vergara back into the game.
‘Big shot' Al return to the game paid instant dividends as he drilled a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 54-53, and he ran Singapore's offence to perfection as he found Marcus Ng on a backdoor cut to give the Slingers the lead.
Ng was fouled on the final possession of the third quarter and sank both freethrows to give the Arsego's men a 57-54 lead.
Kings coach Jong Uiohico called a timeout with 1.8 seconds left to draw a play for a buzzer beater, but Ronald Tubid missed the half-court fling by just a little.
Ng came to life in the fourth, as he starting taking the ball to he hoop to lead the Slingers on the charge. Singapore's ASEAN heritage player also drew a charge on Tupid, much to the ire of the Kings and their fans.
The offensive foul may have lit a flame under Ginebra as they roared back into the game, revving up their defence as they feasted on Singapore's turnovers to lead 73-65 with less than five minutes to go.
Singapore was down 75-70 with 23 seconds left when Kyle Jeffers received the ball in the post. The Slingers center took the ball to the basket, but was pummeled in the back by Kings point guard Celino Cruz as he went up for the shot. Words were exchanged and a fistcuff almost broke out but both teams quickly put it out. Jeffers missed the ensuing freethrows.
The Slingers started fouling to stop the clock after Jeffers' missed pair but they could not close the gap as they fell 77-72 in the end.
source: http://www.espnstar.com/other-sports/news/detail/item331770/Singapore-Slingers-72-77-Ginebra-Kings/
By Vincent Lai
Small forward Mark Caguioa top-scored for Ginebra with 24 points, with the athletic guard Ronald Tubid adding 15 points and six rebounds.
Kyle Jeffers led the Slingers with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Michael Leblanc, making his Challenge Series debut, added 19 points and 12 rebounds of his own.
Ginebra started the game swarming on D, clogging up the lanes, closing the channels and helping each other on the perimeter.
Every time Singapore guards Al Vergara or Hong Wei Jian drove into the paint, the smaller lineup of the Kings descended on the invader, often coming up with a steal or deflection.
The defence fuelled their running game, leading to easy points on the break. Mark Caguioa led the Kings with seven points in the first period.
Singapore had a harder time coming by points in the half-court set, but still managed to score through Kyle Jeffers and three-pointers from Vergara, Wei Long and Wei Jian, led to a 19-17 finish of the first quarter, advantage Ginebra.
The Slingers' usual surge at the beginning of the second quarter failed to materialise as the Kings continued to clamp on defence. Ginebra managed to continue their first quarter lockdown as Singapore were shackled for a good five minutes.
However, Ginebra's enthusiasm on the defensive end may have been a two-edged sword, as Enrico Villanueva picked up two quick fouls that led to the Kings' faithful jeering in unison. Hong stepped up sank a smooth trey after Villanueva's infraction.
The teams then exchanged baskets as Ginebra began to tire and the Slingers finding their range, the opposite of their game with the Smart Gilas Pilipinas.
However, the Kings did not panic after going behind a Vergara go-ahead three with three minutes to go, their veteran savvy showing as they worked the rock round the perimeter to find Caguioa open for a trey.
The Slingers went into halftime with a 40-34 lead, behind Leblanc's efficient 14 points in the second period on 75% shooting, all within the offence without a play called for him.
Singapore returned to the floor with an emphasis on slowing down the game, running the offence through Jeffers as the Slingers tried to cut down on their turnovers. Jeffers scored six points in the third.
The Kings countered by giving Eric Menk, Billy Mamaril and Ronald Tubid license in the post. With Tubid lighting up Michael Wong for eight points as the quarter wore on.
Ginebra also relied on Villanueva for the third, as the burly forward went to work.
Slingers coach Frank Arsego was forced to call a timeout with two minutes to go in the third to cool off Tubid's offensive explosion, and also inserted Vergara back into the game.
‘Big shot' Al return to the game paid instant dividends as he drilled a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 54-53, and he ran Singapore's offence to perfection as he found Marcus Ng on a backdoor cut to give the Slingers the lead.
Ng was fouled on the final possession of the third quarter and sank both freethrows to give the Arsego's men a 57-54 lead.
Kings coach Jong Uiohico called a timeout with 1.8 seconds left to draw a play for a buzzer beater, but Ronald Tubid missed the half-court fling by just a little.
Ng came to life in the fourth, as he starting taking the ball to he hoop to lead the Slingers on the charge. Singapore's ASEAN heritage player also drew a charge on Tupid, much to the ire of the Kings and their fans.
The offensive foul may have lit a flame under Ginebra as they roared back into the game, revving up their defence as they feasted on Singapore's turnovers to lead 73-65 with less than five minutes to go.
Singapore was down 75-70 with 23 seconds left when Kyle Jeffers received the ball in the post. The Slingers center took the ball to the basket, but was pummeled in the back by Kings point guard Celino Cruz as he went up for the shot. Words were exchanged and a fistcuff almost broke out but both teams quickly put it out. Jeffers missed the ensuing freethrows.
The Slingers started fouling to stop the clock after Jeffers' missed pair but they could not close the gap as they fell 77-72 in the end.
source: http://www.espnstar.com/other-sports/news/detail/item331770/Singapore-Slingers-72-77-Ginebra-Kings/
Update: Barangay Ginebra routs Singapore Slingers, 77-72
Mark Caguioa and Ronald Tubid top scorers for Ginebra - 24 and 15.
Aguilar to play for Gilas in ‘Ondoy’ charity game
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
Japeth Aguilar will have a chance to play for his adopted Smart Gilas team when it plays the PBA Powerade Team Pilipinas in a charity game to raise funds for victims of Typhoon “Ondoy.”
The game will be held on Monday at the Araneta Coliseum and is dubbed “Pinoy Basketball Kakampi N’yo.”
(CLICK HERE TO WATCH GILAS VS. SLINGERS game replay video)
Aguilar’s stint in a PBA-sanctioned game will be a one-shot affair as the league has not decided yet on whether it will allow the former US NCAA player to suit up for Gilas when it competes in the coming PBA conference.
Aguilar was also a member of the Powerade team which placed eighth in the recent FIBA-Asia men’s championship in China and thus can suit up for the Yeng Guiao-mentored squad.
But Gilas submitted Aguilar’s name in its lineup and PBA board chairman and Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez said he has no problem with that.
Alvarez, who has a pending motion with the PBA board to ban Aguilar in the PBA for life, said the player can join his Gilas teammates but only for this one game.
Aguilar earned the ire of Burger King after he refused to sign a contract after being picked No. 1 overall.
“I think this is a good opportunity for local basketball fans to see him (Aguilar) play,” Alvarez said.
Meanwhile, the PBA will also distribute relief goods for Ondoy victims.
Commissioner Sonny Barrios and the PBA board of governors authorized Sunday the release of food donations for victims of “Ondoy.”
PBA media bureau chief Willy Marcial said the Office of the Commissioner will buy bread, canned goods and other food items from cash donations of the 10 member ballclubs.
“Net proceeds from the 35th season inaugural day ceremony on October 11 will also go with the seed money which the ballclubs have put up as calamity fund,” he added.
The charity game is a joint venture of the PBA, the SBP, Philippine Basketball League (PBL) the Liga Pilipinas, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Ticket prices are P200 for ringside/patron, P100 for lower box and P50 for upper A. Upper B and bleachers will be free to the public.
Japeth Aguilar will have a chance to play for his adopted Smart Gilas team when it plays the PBA Powerade Team Pilipinas in a charity game to raise funds for victims of Typhoon “Ondoy.”
The game will be held on Monday at the Araneta Coliseum and is dubbed “Pinoy Basketball Kakampi N’yo.”
(CLICK HERE TO WATCH GILAS VS. SLINGERS game replay video)
Aguilar’s stint in a PBA-sanctioned game will be a one-shot affair as the league has not decided yet on whether it will allow the former US NCAA player to suit up for Gilas when it competes in the coming PBA conference.
Aguilar was also a member of the Powerade team which placed eighth in the recent FIBA-Asia men’s championship in China and thus can suit up for the Yeng Guiao-mentored squad.
But Gilas submitted Aguilar’s name in its lineup and PBA board chairman and Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez said he has no problem with that.
Alvarez, who has a pending motion with the PBA board to ban Aguilar in the PBA for life, said the player can join his Gilas teammates but only for this one game.
Aguilar earned the ire of Burger King after he refused to sign a contract after being picked No. 1 overall.
“I think this is a good opportunity for local basketball fans to see him (Aguilar) play,” Alvarez said.
Meanwhile, the PBA will also distribute relief goods for Ondoy victims.
Commissioner Sonny Barrios and the PBA board of governors authorized Sunday the release of food donations for victims of “Ondoy.”
PBA media bureau chief Willy Marcial said the Office of the Commissioner will buy bread, canned goods and other food items from cash donations of the 10 member ballclubs.
“Net proceeds from the 35th season inaugural day ceremony on October 11 will also go with the seed money which the ballclubs have put up as calamity fund,” he added.
The charity game is a joint venture of the PBA, the SBP, Philippine Basketball League (PBL) the Liga Pilipinas, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Ticket prices are P200 for ringside/patron, P100 for lower box and P50 for upper A. Upper B and bleachers will be free to the public.
Red Bull’s Chua so close to safety before tragedy
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
Red Bull team manager Tony Chua was a few hundred meters from the safety of his home in a subdivision in Marikina City when floodwaters swept him to his death Saturday night, his driver and family members said on Monday.
Chua, well loved and well-liked in sports circles, had decided to walk the remaining 500 meters of road towards his home at Filinvest subdivision when he apparently underestimated the force of the raging waters that pulled him, his driver and his aide to the precipice of the road where briefly, they clung to a tree for dear life.
His driver, named Lemer, survived the floods but, Joenere Pedal, his aide, also died.
According to Lemer, Chua, who was 58, managed to hold on to a tree as water raged under their feet and body. The driver somehow sketchily recalled that Chua was hit by a piece of wood that was being carried by flood waters among several flotsam and jetsam in the area. The impact must have forced him to loosen his grip on the tree he was clinging on.
His body was found hours later in a morgue along with several other victims of the flood.
Chua’s remains lie in state at the Sanctuarium on Araneta Ave., Quezon City. Interment will be announced later.
He is survived by his wife Marissa, daughters Toni Rose, 26; Tonissa, 17; and Anissa, 8.
According to Chua’s eldest daughter Toni Rose, she wants to remember her father as someone who was fun to be around, someone who always made them smile. “There was never a dull moment whenever he’s around. He always made us laugh... smile.”
Chua’s wife said that Chua “loves the team (Barako Bull) so much.”
Toni Rose said that her father was on his way home to their Filinvest Village residence in Marikina City after spending the afternoon at the Barako Bull team’s headquarters located in Pasig City.
She said her father called at around 5 p.m. Saturday to tell them that he will walk the remaining distance from where their Starex van was stranded near Ligaya St. along Marcos Highway.
“Malapit na actually s’ya sa house eh,” Toni Rose said.
But the wait for him to reach home proved to be in vain. When Chua failed to tell his whereabouts many hours after, they decided to check the nearest morgue.
Toni Rose said she could not exactly tell how the end for her father came. It was Chua’s driver Lemer who tried to recall what happened that tragic afternoon.
Lemer told Chua’s family that they were confident of reaching home as many others were also braving the fierce current.
Among the first to arrive in the wake was PBA Commissioner Renauld “Sonny” Barrios.
PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial said that a special tribute will be made for Chua before the Hall of Fame awards on October 9. Marcial said that the PBA Hall of Fame is actually a project of Chua. The PBA will also have a moment of silence when the league opens its 35th Season on October 11.
“Of course, he was well liked by everyone not only in basketball but the sports community,” former Red Bull mentor Joseller Guiao said.
Chua, who played high school and varsity football at Letran College, was with the Energy Food and Drink basketball team since its PBL days.
When Red Bull owned by George Chua joined the PBA, he was the team representative to the PBA board, a position he held at the time of his death.
He served as PBA chair during the 2006-07 season, succeeding Talk n Text's Ricky Vargas and preceded by Alaska's Joaqui Trillo.
After college, he turned to coaching and went on to become head coach of the RP ladies basketball team. He also became vice president of the Philippine Football Federation.
With him as PBA board member, Red Bull won three championships.
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine’s co-team owner Terry Que believed that had Chua followed his own advice, he probably would still be alive today.
Que said he had a long talk with Chua when typhoon “Ondoy” started to pound Metro Manila.
Chua, according to Que, told him: “Pare huwag ka ng lumabas ng bahay dahil delikado. Magkita na lang tayo sa Martes sa opis nyo, may pag-usapan tayong negosyo.”
Almost 24 hours after their phone conversation, Que learned the tragic death of his friend, whom he had shared happy moments during their days in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL).
“Napakasakit ang pagkawala ni Tony, he’s jolly person, we had so many happy moments,” said Que.
Red Bull team manager Tony Chua was a few hundred meters from the safety of his home in a subdivision in Marikina City when floodwaters swept him to his death Saturday night, his driver and family members said on Monday.
Chua, well loved and well-liked in sports circles, had decided to walk the remaining 500 meters of road towards his home at Filinvest subdivision when he apparently underestimated the force of the raging waters that pulled him, his driver and his aide to the precipice of the road where briefly, they clung to a tree for dear life.
His driver, named Lemer, survived the floods but, Joenere Pedal, his aide, also died.
According to Lemer, Chua, who was 58, managed to hold on to a tree as water raged under their feet and body. The driver somehow sketchily recalled that Chua was hit by a piece of wood that was being carried by flood waters among several flotsam and jetsam in the area. The impact must have forced him to loosen his grip on the tree he was clinging on.
His body was found hours later in a morgue along with several other victims of the flood.
Chua’s remains lie in state at the Sanctuarium on Araneta Ave., Quezon City. Interment will be announced later.
He is survived by his wife Marissa, daughters Toni Rose, 26; Tonissa, 17; and Anissa, 8.
According to Chua’s eldest daughter Toni Rose, she wants to remember her father as someone who was fun to be around, someone who always made them smile. “There was never a dull moment whenever he’s around. He always made us laugh... smile.”
Chua’s wife said that Chua “loves the team (Barako Bull) so much.”
Toni Rose said that her father was on his way home to their Filinvest Village residence in Marikina City after spending the afternoon at the Barako Bull team’s headquarters located in Pasig City.
She said her father called at around 5 p.m. Saturday to tell them that he will walk the remaining distance from where their Starex van was stranded near Ligaya St. along Marcos Highway.
“Malapit na actually s’ya sa house eh,” Toni Rose said.
But the wait for him to reach home proved to be in vain. When Chua failed to tell his whereabouts many hours after, they decided to check the nearest morgue.
Toni Rose said she could not exactly tell how the end for her father came. It was Chua’s driver Lemer who tried to recall what happened that tragic afternoon.
Lemer told Chua’s family that they were confident of reaching home as many others were also braving the fierce current.
Among the first to arrive in the wake was PBA Commissioner Renauld “Sonny” Barrios.
PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial said that a special tribute will be made for Chua before the Hall of Fame awards on October 9. Marcial said that the PBA Hall of Fame is actually a project of Chua. The PBA will also have a moment of silence when the league opens its 35th Season on October 11.
“Of course, he was well liked by everyone not only in basketball but the sports community,” former Red Bull mentor Joseller Guiao said.
Chua, who played high school and varsity football at Letran College, was with the Energy Food and Drink basketball team since its PBL days.
When Red Bull owned by George Chua joined the PBA, he was the team representative to the PBA board, a position he held at the time of his death.
He served as PBA chair during the 2006-07 season, succeeding Talk n Text's Ricky Vargas and preceded by Alaska's Joaqui Trillo.
After college, he turned to coaching and went on to become head coach of the RP ladies basketball team. He also became vice president of the Philippine Football Federation.
With him as PBA board member, Red Bull won three championships.
Meanwhile, Rain or Shine’s co-team owner Terry Que believed that had Chua followed his own advice, he probably would still be alive today.
Que said he had a long talk with Chua when typhoon “Ondoy” started to pound Metro Manila.
Chua, according to Que, told him: “Pare huwag ka ng lumabas ng bahay dahil delikado. Magkita na lang tayo sa Martes sa opis nyo, may pag-usapan tayong negosyo.”
Almost 24 hours after their phone conversation, Que learned the tragic death of his friend, whom he had shared happy moments during their days in the Philippine Basketball League (PBL).
“Napakasakit ang pagkawala ni Tony, he’s jolly person, we had so many happy moments,” said Que.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
PBA board says Aguilar violated rules
Two Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) governors defended the board’s decision of imposing a possible ban on controversial rookie Japeth Aguilar if ever the former Western Kentucky University player won’t come to terms with Burger King.
The Whopper made the 6-foot-9 Aguilar the No. 1 overall pick in last month’s annual rookie draft but the 22-year-old turned his back from the pro league and pursued a career playing for the Smart Gilas developmental team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
Coca-Cola’s JB Baylon and Alaska’s Joaqui Trillo shared their assessments as to why the board came down hard on Aguilar.
“There’s what you called a verbal contract and a contract that bears mutual understanding by just simply shaking hands," said Baylon, who was team manager of the Powerade-Pilipinas men’s basketball team, the same squad where Aguilar played for in the FIBA Asia Championship and Jones Cup.
“Besides, Draft Day is a time where teams build around the future of its squad. Eventually, Burger King, which owns the no.1 pick, didn’t get that luxury of enjoying its top overall pick, who decided to turn his back on the team which picked him as well as the league as a whole."
Trillo, who was replaced by Lito Alvarez of Burger King as league chairman, shared Baylon’s views. “Burger King was shortchanged and that is not fair. The PBA has to stand for its rights and we will not allow anyone to make a mockery of its rules. Japeth will have to find a win-win situation. Otherwise, the PBA can do without him."
But Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) vice chairman and Talk ‘N Text’s PBA board member Ricky Vargas said that guest team Smart Gilas should be given the principle of choosing its players who will be fielded in the coming Philippine Cup, which opens on Oct. 11.
Vargas’ assessment was based upon the PBA board’s decision of not allowing Aguilar to suit up for Smart Gilas if he won’t come to terms with Burger King. “The principle here is that SBP should decide whether it still wants to play if the PBA dictates to them who should play or not play."
“It is not between Japeth and the PBA. Besides, Japeth is not yet a member of Smart Gilas. The best way here is that the PBA should talk to SBP privately."
Vargas said that as guest team, Smart Gilas should be given the authority in choosing the players who will compose its squad in its participation in the PBA.
Aguilar, who played Wednesday with the Smart Gilas in a tune up game against the Singapore Slingers in Singapore, refused to sign the three-year P8.7 million maximum offer of Burger King.
Smart Gilas defeated the Slingers, 70-67, with Aguilar scoring 14 points to back up CJ Giles’ 21-point performance. (click here for SMART GILAS vs. SINGAPORE SLINGERS PHOTOS AND VIDEO CLIPS)
Being barred from playing for Smart Gilas in the Philippine Cup could be one of the sanctions Aguilar might face as a penalty.
The PBA, as its way of helping the national team program of the SBP, agreed to accommodate the Smart Gilas as a guest team.
Aside from Giles and Aguilar, other members of Smart Gilas are college standouts Chris Tiu, JV Casio, Mark Barroca, Mac Baracael and Dylan Ababou.
PBA Update:
The Whopper made the 6-foot-9 Aguilar the No. 1 overall pick in last month’s annual rookie draft but the 22-year-old turned his back from the pro league and pursued a career playing for the Smart Gilas developmental team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
Coca-Cola’s JB Baylon and Alaska’s Joaqui Trillo shared their assessments as to why the board came down hard on Aguilar.
“There’s what you called a verbal contract and a contract that bears mutual understanding by just simply shaking hands," said Baylon, who was team manager of the Powerade-Pilipinas men’s basketball team, the same squad where Aguilar played for in the FIBA Asia Championship and Jones Cup.
“Besides, Draft Day is a time where teams build around the future of its squad. Eventually, Burger King, which owns the no.1 pick, didn’t get that luxury of enjoying its top overall pick, who decided to turn his back on the team which picked him as well as the league as a whole."
Trillo, who was replaced by Lito Alvarez of Burger King as league chairman, shared Baylon’s views. “Burger King was shortchanged and that is not fair. The PBA has to stand for its rights and we will not allow anyone to make a mockery of its rules. Japeth will have to find a win-win situation. Otherwise, the PBA can do without him."
But Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) vice chairman and Talk ‘N Text’s PBA board member Ricky Vargas said that guest team Smart Gilas should be given the principle of choosing its players who will be fielded in the coming Philippine Cup, which opens on Oct. 11.
Vargas’ assessment was based upon the PBA board’s decision of not allowing Aguilar to suit up for Smart Gilas if he won’t come to terms with Burger King. “The principle here is that SBP should decide whether it still wants to play if the PBA dictates to them who should play or not play."
“It is not between Japeth and the PBA. Besides, Japeth is not yet a member of Smart Gilas. The best way here is that the PBA should talk to SBP privately."
Vargas said that as guest team, Smart Gilas should be given the authority in choosing the players who will compose its squad in its participation in the PBA.
Aguilar, who played Wednesday with the Smart Gilas in a tune up game against the Singapore Slingers in Singapore, refused to sign the three-year P8.7 million maximum offer of Burger King.
Smart Gilas defeated the Slingers, 70-67, with Aguilar scoring 14 points to back up CJ Giles’ 21-point performance. (click here for SMART GILAS vs. SINGAPORE SLINGERS PHOTOS AND VIDEO CLIPS)
Being barred from playing for Smart Gilas in the Philippine Cup could be one of the sanctions Aguilar might face as a penalty.
The PBA, as its way of helping the national team program of the SBP, agreed to accommodate the Smart Gilas as a guest team.
Aside from Giles and Aguilar, other members of Smart Gilas are college standouts Chris Tiu, JV Casio, Mark Barroca, Mac Baracael and Dylan Ababou.
PBA Update:
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Landmasters-Ginebra game tied
The Mandaue-Cebu Landmasters stunned the visiting Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings, forcing a 79-all count in an exhibition game yesterday at the jam-packed Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex.
The Gin Kings, fresh from a 76-71 victory over the M. Lhuillier-Cebu Niños Monday night, fought tooth-and-nail with the Landmasters and the home team never gave up until the final buzzer.
In front of a loud crowd than included Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes and boxing champion Z "The Dream" Gorres, Mandaue banked on the late-game heroics of its veteran players to forge the tie. Since the game was an exhibition match, no overtime period was needed to settle the game.
Cainglet led Mandaue with 14 points while John Paul Alcaraz and Boyet Bautista both added 11 each.
Mark Caguioa led the Gin Kings with 16 points while Ronald Tubid added 15.
After the game, Mandaue coach Jun Tan said he was impressed with the way his wards played.
"Nakita nako nga maayo ang dagan sa duwa namo batok Ginebra, maayo unta nga magpadayon ni hangtod sa Liga Pilipinas," said Tan, whose Landmasters squad is presently competing in the Liga Pilipinas 3 tournament against some of the best in the country, including the Niños.
The Landmasters showed signs of brilliance when they led after the first period, 25-20.
Mandaue managed to hold on to a two-point lead in the third but the Gin Kings, the most popular team in the PBA, fought hard in the final canto.
After Caguioa and company put up a five-point lead halfway through the final canto, Cainglet started off a late rally capped off with Berame and Mercado's efforts to force the tie. Dale Rosal, "Cebu Daily News" - INQUIRER.net
Barangay Ginebra Kings Update:
The Gin Kings, fresh from a 76-71 victory over the M. Lhuillier-Cebu Niños Monday night, fought tooth-and-nail with the Landmasters and the home team never gave up until the final buzzer.
In front of a loud crowd than included Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes and boxing champion Z "The Dream" Gorres, Mandaue banked on the late-game heroics of its veteran players to forge the tie. Since the game was an exhibition match, no overtime period was needed to settle the game.
Cainglet led Mandaue with 14 points while John Paul Alcaraz and Boyet Bautista both added 11 each.
Mark Caguioa led the Gin Kings with 16 points while Ronald Tubid added 15.
After the game, Mandaue coach Jun Tan said he was impressed with the way his wards played.
"Nakita nako nga maayo ang dagan sa duwa namo batok Ginebra, maayo unta nga magpadayon ni hangtod sa Liga Pilipinas," said Tan, whose Landmasters squad is presently competing in the Liga Pilipinas 3 tournament against some of the best in the country, including the Niños.
The Landmasters showed signs of brilliance when they led after the first period, 25-20.
Mandaue managed to hold on to a two-point lead in the third but the Gin Kings, the most popular team in the PBA, fought hard in the final canto.
After Caguioa and company put up a five-point lead halfway through the final canto, Cainglet started off a late rally capped off with Berame and Mercado's efforts to force the tie. Dale Rosal, "Cebu Daily News" - INQUIRER.net
Barangay Ginebra Kings Update:
Parting ways with Espino deeply hurt Encarnado
Letting go of a prized player and a dear friend is something Sta. Lucia Realty team manager Buddy Encarnado doesn't want to experience again.
That explains why he wants his team to perform well this season.
"Everybody will have to be counted," Encarnado said yesterday, speaking out for the first time about the trade two weeks ago that sent long-time Realtor team captain Dennis Espino to Coca-Cola.
"It was not easy. We have been together for 14 years going on 15, so I really had a hard time making it," he added.
The move, along with an earlier trade that sent Denok Miranda to San Miguel Beer, had to be made, however, to alleviate the team's financial woes. The Realtors are right on the edge of the PBA's maximum salary cap of P32 million per season.
Aside from Espino, also receiving the league's ceiling of P350,000 a month are Marlou Aquino and Kelly Williams while the likes of Paolo Mendoza, Joseph Yeo, Ryan Reyes and Bitoy Omolon are earning close to the league limit. Miranda was reportedly set to receive P220,000 a month this year.
"It was basically about our issues with the salary cap," explained Encarnado, who summarized the deal as a "win-win" situation for the 35-year-old player the team made the top overall pick in the 1995 draft and the Realtors as a whole.
"He will have a new motivation, a new life with Coca-Cola, samantalang kami naman became younger and now have some ease on the financial side," he said.
Encarnado also quashed rumors more Realtors will be traded. "That's it," he stressed. "What I have right now is my team."
He also described the current Realtors as a team "with a new motivation," and the players, led by Williams, has to rise to the challenge he has hurled.
"Everybody must seize the opportunity." Noli Cortez - Malaya Online Edition
PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) Update:
That explains why he wants his team to perform well this season.
"Everybody will have to be counted," Encarnado said yesterday, speaking out for the first time about the trade two weeks ago that sent long-time Realtor team captain Dennis Espino to Coca-Cola.
"It was not easy. We have been together for 14 years going on 15, so I really had a hard time making it," he added.
The move, along with an earlier trade that sent Denok Miranda to San Miguel Beer, had to be made, however, to alleviate the team's financial woes. The Realtors are right on the edge of the PBA's maximum salary cap of P32 million per season.
Aside from Espino, also receiving the league's ceiling of P350,000 a month are Marlou Aquino and Kelly Williams while the likes of Paolo Mendoza, Joseph Yeo, Ryan Reyes and Bitoy Omolon are earning close to the league limit. Miranda was reportedly set to receive P220,000 a month this year.
"It was basically about our issues with the salary cap," explained Encarnado, who summarized the deal as a "win-win" situation for the 35-year-old player the team made the top overall pick in the 1995 draft and the Realtors as a whole.
"He will have a new motivation, a new life with Coca-Cola, samantalang kami naman became younger and now have some ease on the financial side," he said.
Encarnado also quashed rumors more Realtors will be traded. "That's it," he stressed. "What I have right now is my team."
He also described the current Realtors as a team "with a new motivation," and the players, led by Williams, has to rise to the challenge he has hurled.
"Everybody must seize the opportunity." Noli Cortez - Malaya Online Edition
PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) Update:
Smart Gilas beat Singapore Slingers, 70-67
source: singaporeslingers.com
The Singapore Slingers fought valiantly as they lost to the Smart Gilas Pilipinas 70-67 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Kyle Jeffers top-scored for the home team with 20 points, adding 11 rebounds in the losing effort. Local boy Hong Wei Jian added 12 points, most of them coming in a third-quarter explosion.
CJ Giles raided the Slingers’ basket for 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Japeth Aguilar scored 14 points in the narrow win.
The Slingers struggled in the first quarter as bigmen CJ Giles and Japeth Aguilar dominated the paint with a block each and many, many deflections.
Singapore’s Hong Wei Jian was made a passenger of the game in the first quarter as the Pilipinas’ zone effectively shackled the athletic swingman.
Slingers' starting point guard Al Vegara kept the Slingers in the game, as did Kyle Jeffers and Marcus Ng, who did their very best to keep up with the length of the Gilas with four points apiece in the first period.
Giles, Aguilar and Marnel Baracel ruled the paint for Smart in the first quarter, with the trio scoring 12 of the Pilipinas’ 14 points.
Aguilar energized his team late in the first, when he fed off a turnover by Hong and took the ball coast-to-coast for a reverse jam.
Singapore trailed 17-14 when referee Richard Sim blew for the end of the first period.
In what is becoming a common trend in Slingers games, Singapore roared back to life at the start of the second quarter, as Frank Arsego got his team to up a gear.
With CJ Giles taking a break on the bench, the Slingers took control of the boards, which fuelled their running game. One foray into the Gilas’ trapezium on the break led to Wei Jian evading two defenders in the air with a double clutch layup, with the guard scoring with the grace of Sasha Cohen.
Singapore led 31-25 as a result with 2:18 left, when coach Rajko Toroman was forced to call for a timeout.
Giles was re-inserted into the game and Smart’s ‘twin-tower’ game returned. Aguilar, who had been keeping the Gilas’ in the game with his twelve points in the half, fired up the crowd with an emphatic block on a Jeffers’ dunk attempt. Joseph Casio then sank a three as the Filipino visitor ended the half trailing 35-31.
Toroman’s half-time talked must have worked, as Smart Gilas came out in the third quarter firing. Casio came into the spotlight once again, as the burly guard rained in a three from downtown to take a 36-35 lead for the Gilas with nine minutes left.
The Slingers failed to respond as their offence stagnated, and Smart took control of the floor with Baracael scoring on consecutive trips down the floor. Arsego called a time-out with Singapore trailing 42-37.
The Slingers head coach put Hong back into the game and the guard provided a scoring outlet for the home team, sinking a mid-range jumper and a go-ahead three, gesturing to the crowd as the Gilas called time with 3:35 left in the third, Singapore leading 45-43. Hong would score ten points in a third quarter explosion.
The moment of the night then came as CJ Giles brought the Singapore Indoor Stadium to its feet as he rose to dunk in the alley-oop from Mark Barroca, then unleash his fury as the 6-11 center slammed the ball through off a miss.
Giles would add another fadeaway jumper as Smart Gilas Pilipinas took 56-52 lead heading into the final quarter.
Controversy crept into the game as the referee Leong Cheun Wing assessed the Pilipinas for a technical foul on a substitution halfway through the fourth quarter, leading Toroman into a verbal spar with the men in grey and a holdup in the game. Vegara sank one of the two technical free throws that followed.
The game picked up the pace even more with both teams trading baskets and Slingers import center Kyle Jeffers return the favor on CJ Giles with a monster dunk which brought the local crowd to life, during this period Pilipinas coach continuing his dialogue with the refs at every opportunity.
Toroman was further infuriated when the ball was seemingly tipped out of the basket, the coach running the length of the court to protest the no-call. The crowd, with a good portion supporting the Pilipinas, jeered the three-man referee crew as well as every following Slingers free throw.
The score remained close, but the momentum had swung in the Pilipinas way as Arsego called time with 50 seconds left to regroup.
The Pilipinas were forced into a shot-clock violation with five seconds left on the clock, but the Slingers failed to get a shot off as they registered their first loss to a Filipino team in seven games, losing 70-67.
Smart Gilas Update:
The Singapore Slingers fought valiantly as they lost to the Smart Gilas Pilipinas 70-67 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Kyle Jeffers top-scored for the home team with 20 points, adding 11 rebounds in the losing effort. Local boy Hong Wei Jian added 12 points, most of them coming in a third-quarter explosion.
CJ Giles raided the Slingers’ basket for 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Japeth Aguilar scored 14 points in the narrow win.
The Slingers struggled in the first quarter as bigmen CJ Giles and Japeth Aguilar dominated the paint with a block each and many, many deflections.
Singapore’s Hong Wei Jian was made a passenger of the game in the first quarter as the Pilipinas’ zone effectively shackled the athletic swingman.
Slingers' starting point guard Al Vegara kept the Slingers in the game, as did Kyle Jeffers and Marcus Ng, who did their very best to keep up with the length of the Gilas with four points apiece in the first period.
Giles, Aguilar and Marnel Baracel ruled the paint for Smart in the first quarter, with the trio scoring 12 of the Pilipinas’ 14 points.
Aguilar energized his team late in the first, when he fed off a turnover by Hong and took the ball coast-to-coast for a reverse jam.
Singapore trailed 17-14 when referee Richard Sim blew for the end of the first period.
In what is becoming a common trend in Slingers games, Singapore roared back to life at the start of the second quarter, as Frank Arsego got his team to up a gear.
With CJ Giles taking a break on the bench, the Slingers took control of the boards, which fuelled their running game. One foray into the Gilas’ trapezium on the break led to Wei Jian evading two defenders in the air with a double clutch layup, with the guard scoring with the grace of Sasha Cohen.
Singapore led 31-25 as a result with 2:18 left, when coach Rajko Toroman was forced to call for a timeout.
Giles was re-inserted into the game and Smart’s ‘twin-tower’ game returned. Aguilar, who had been keeping the Gilas’ in the game with his twelve points in the half, fired up the crowd with an emphatic block on a Jeffers’ dunk attempt. Joseph Casio then sank a three as the Filipino visitor ended the half trailing 35-31.
Toroman’s half-time talked must have worked, as Smart Gilas came out in the third quarter firing. Casio came into the spotlight once again, as the burly guard rained in a three from downtown to take a 36-35 lead for the Gilas with nine minutes left.
The Slingers failed to respond as their offence stagnated, and Smart took control of the floor with Baracael scoring on consecutive trips down the floor. Arsego called a time-out with Singapore trailing 42-37.
The Slingers head coach put Hong back into the game and the guard provided a scoring outlet for the home team, sinking a mid-range jumper and a go-ahead three, gesturing to the crowd as the Gilas called time with 3:35 left in the third, Singapore leading 45-43. Hong would score ten points in a third quarter explosion.
The moment of the night then came as CJ Giles brought the Singapore Indoor Stadium to its feet as he rose to dunk in the alley-oop from Mark Barroca, then unleash his fury as the 6-11 center slammed the ball through off a miss.
Giles would add another fadeaway jumper as Smart Gilas Pilipinas took 56-52 lead heading into the final quarter.
Controversy crept into the game as the referee Leong Cheun Wing assessed the Pilipinas for a technical foul on a substitution halfway through the fourth quarter, leading Toroman into a verbal spar with the men in grey and a holdup in the game. Vegara sank one of the two technical free throws that followed.
The game picked up the pace even more with both teams trading baskets and Slingers import center Kyle Jeffers return the favor on CJ Giles with a monster dunk which brought the local crowd to life, during this period Pilipinas coach continuing his dialogue with the refs at every opportunity.
Toroman was further infuriated when the ball was seemingly tipped out of the basket, the coach running the length of the court to protest the no-call. The crowd, with a good portion supporting the Pilipinas, jeered the three-man referee crew as well as every following Slingers free throw.
The score remained close, but the momentum had swung in the Pilipinas way as Arsego called time with 50 seconds left to regroup.
The Pilipinas were forced into a shot-clock violation with five seconds left on the clock, but the Slingers failed to get a shot off as they registered their first loss to a Filipino team in seven games, losing 70-67.
Smart Gilas Update:
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
PBA board to prevent Aguilar in playing with guest team RP Gilas
source: gmanews.tv
Newly-installed Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) chairman Lito Alvarez said the league would not allow Japeth Aguilar to play this season when Smart Gilas sees action as a guest team.
Alvarez explained that the PBA board has already come up with a stand concerning the former Western Kentucky University player, who suited up both for the all-pro Powerade-Pilipinas men’s basketball team in the FIBA Asia Championship and the William Jones Cup basketball tournament.
“We in the board have an agreement that once Japeth won’t come to terms with us in Burger King, he won’t be allowed to play for Smart Gilas, which will play as guest team in the Philippine Cup," Alvarez told GMANews.TV
Former PBA board chairman Joaqui Trillo of Alaska, which was also present during the previous board meeting, also shared his thoughts on the matter.
“What is involved here is not just Burger King, but the PBA as a whole," said Trillo. “If he won’t come to terms with Burger King, it means he won’t be playing with the PBA as well. Yes, there was an agreement in the board that if ever Aguilar won’t come to terms with Burger King, he won’t be allowed to play for the guest team Smart Gilas."
Asked about his thoughts regarding the board’s decision, Talk N Text board member and SBP vice chairman Ricky Vargas said he wasn’t present in the meeting when the board decided on the matter last week. He was represented by former SBP executive director Pato Gregorio, who is currently in Singapore right now.
Alvarez, however, said he remains hopeful that the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) will honor its word that it won’t offer a contract to the controversial top overall rookie pick.
“I’m still hoping that Mr. Pangilinan and I will continue our talks regarding the best possible way in settling amicably regarding the Japeth Aguilar issue," Alvarez said. “I think Japeth playing for Smart Gilas in Singapore doesn’t mean that he has already signed a contract with the squad."
“But what if something happens to him? Hindi naman siya under contract? Maybe, Japeth would just bank on Mr. Manny Pangilinan’s generosity na hindi siya pababayaan nito," added Alvarez.
Since Alvarez and Pangilinan are expected to settle the matter, the issue was not officially brought to PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios for deliberation. Barrios said he hopes that Alvarez and Pangilinan would settle the issue.
Aguilar, who also played for the SBP-backed Smart Gilas team in the FIBA Asia Club Championship, along with another controversial player, Andy Barroca of Far Eastern University, played for Smart Gilas in a tune up game against the Laguna Stallions last week which the developmental team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman won handily.
Alvarez sees no problem with Barroca playing for Smart Gilas as the alleged game-fixing issue with his college team, FEU, was an internal matter.
"Wala tayong problema kay Barroca dahil hindi naman proven na involved siya sa game fixing eh and it was an internal matter. Japeth’s case is different because he already applied for the Draft and expressed intentions to turn pro then turned his back all of a sudden," said Alvarez. “I’m acting here not as team manager of Burger King but as chairman of the PBA and I’m looking on it on a bigger picture because we in the PBA don’t want to tolerate such action."
Members of the Smart Gilas developmental team together with coach Rajko Toroman, fourth from left, depart for Singapore for a series of exhibition games with the Singapore Slingers. They are, from left, Maggie Sison, MacMac Baracael, Mark Barroca, Japeth Aguilar, Jason Ballesteros, JV Casio and Chris Tiu. (Photo by Rudy Santos)
Barangay Ginebra Kings
Newly-installed Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) chairman Lito Alvarez said the league would not allow Japeth Aguilar to play this season when Smart Gilas sees action as a guest team.
Alvarez explained that the PBA board has already come up with a stand concerning the former Western Kentucky University player, who suited up both for the all-pro Powerade-Pilipinas men’s basketball team in the FIBA Asia Championship and the William Jones Cup basketball tournament.
“We in the board have an agreement that once Japeth won’t come to terms with us in Burger King, he won’t be allowed to play for Smart Gilas, which will play as guest team in the Philippine Cup," Alvarez told GMANews.TV
Former PBA board chairman Joaqui Trillo of Alaska, which was also present during the previous board meeting, also shared his thoughts on the matter.
“What is involved here is not just Burger King, but the PBA as a whole," said Trillo. “If he won’t come to terms with Burger King, it means he won’t be playing with the PBA as well. Yes, there was an agreement in the board that if ever Aguilar won’t come to terms with Burger King, he won’t be allowed to play for the guest team Smart Gilas."
Asked about his thoughts regarding the board’s decision, Talk N Text board member and SBP vice chairman Ricky Vargas said he wasn’t present in the meeting when the board decided on the matter last week. He was represented by former SBP executive director Pato Gregorio, who is currently in Singapore right now.
Alvarez, however, said he remains hopeful that the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) will honor its word that it won’t offer a contract to the controversial top overall rookie pick.
“I’m still hoping that Mr. Pangilinan and I will continue our talks regarding the best possible way in settling amicably regarding the Japeth Aguilar issue," Alvarez said. “I think Japeth playing for Smart Gilas in Singapore doesn’t mean that he has already signed a contract with the squad."
“But what if something happens to him? Hindi naman siya under contract? Maybe, Japeth would just bank on Mr. Manny Pangilinan’s generosity na hindi siya pababayaan nito," added Alvarez.
Since Alvarez and Pangilinan are expected to settle the matter, the issue was not officially brought to PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios for deliberation. Barrios said he hopes that Alvarez and Pangilinan would settle the issue.
Aguilar, who also played for the SBP-backed Smart Gilas team in the FIBA Asia Club Championship, along with another controversial player, Andy Barroca of Far Eastern University, played for Smart Gilas in a tune up game against the Laguna Stallions last week which the developmental team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman won handily.
Alvarez sees no problem with Barroca playing for Smart Gilas as the alleged game-fixing issue with his college team, FEU, was an internal matter.
"Wala tayong problema kay Barroca dahil hindi naman proven na involved siya sa game fixing eh and it was an internal matter. Japeth’s case is different because he already applied for the Draft and expressed intentions to turn pro then turned his back all of a sudden," said Alvarez. “I’m acting here not as team manager of Burger King but as chairman of the PBA and I’m looking on it on a bigger picture because we in the PBA don’t want to tolerate such action."
Members of the Smart Gilas developmental team together with coach Rajko Toroman, fourth from left, depart for Singapore for a series of exhibition games with the Singapore Slingers. They are, from left, Maggie Sison, MacMac Baracael, Mark Barroca, Japeth Aguilar, Jason Ballesteros, JV Casio and Chris Tiu. (Photo by Rudy Santos)
Barangay Ginebra Kings
Monday, September 21, 2009
Ginebra dodges M. Lhuillier bullet
Source: (The Freeman) Updated September 22, 2009 12:00 AM
Explosive wingman Cyrus Baguio unloaded 11 of his 17 points in the final quarter as the Brgy. Ginebra Kings scraped through a precarious 76-71 victory over the M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu Niños in their charity exhibition match last night at the Cebu Coliseum.
Game today
(Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex)
6 pm Brgy. Ginebra Kings vs. Mandaue-Cebu Landmasters
Following through the same storyline in their last year’s encounter, the Gin Kings of coach Joseph “Jong” Uichico found the Niños a very tough constumer to handle.
So tough the challenge mounted by M. Lhuillier was that the Gin Kings needed a spirited endgame push sparked by the Iligan City-native Baguio before finishing off the gritty Cebuano cagers.
It was a close-knit match that was accounted for four deadlocks and 13 lead changes.
The last time the Niños were on top was at 61-60 as sharp-shooting playmaker Celino Cruz knocked in a triple to put Ginebra on top for good, 63-61 with still 6:21 left to play.
It was then showtime for Baguio.
The former Southwestern University Baby Cobra who once held the Slam Dunk king title in the Cebu Amateur Athletic Association (now the CESAFI) converted a beautiful acrobatic shot and then hit a booming triple in between back-to-back baskets by Enrico Villanueva and Willie Wilson to give the Gin Kings their biggest lead, 72-63, at the final 3:18 mark of the contest.
The Niños countered with a 7-2 run to threaten at 70-74 with a little over a minute to go in the game.
The wards of coach Raul “Yayoy” D. Alcoseba could have gotten closer but Bruce Dacia and Stephen Padilla went 1-of-4 from the foul line that further sealed M. Lhuillier’s doom.
Cruz answered a split charities by Padilla with his third triple of the night to settle the final outcome. He finished with 13 points.
Bruce Dacia topscored for M. Lhuillier with 16 points followed by Nailon with 10.
M.Lhuillier, thus, ended their four-game marathon against tough PBA squads with a 1-3 record. They won against Alaska Aces, 75-55, but lost to San Miguel Beermen, 72-83, Purefoods TJ Giants, 65-73, and most recently to Ginebra.
The scores
Ginebra (76)- Baguio 17, Cruz 13, Villanueva 9, Mamaril 8, Bugia 6, Caguioa 6, Tubid 5, Wilson 4, Menk 4, White 2, Kramer 2
Cebu (71) – Dacia 16, Nailon 10, Ybañez 9, Mepaña 9, Padilla 9, Enriquez 7, Saladaga 5, Basco 3, Santos 3 (Emmanuel B. Villaruel)
Barangay Ginebra Kings
Explosive wingman Cyrus Baguio unloaded 11 of his 17 points in the final quarter as the Brgy. Ginebra Kings scraped through a precarious 76-71 victory over the M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu Niños in their charity exhibition match last night at the Cebu Coliseum.
Game today
(Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex)
6 pm Brgy. Ginebra Kings vs. Mandaue-Cebu Landmasters
Following through the same storyline in their last year’s encounter, the Gin Kings of coach Joseph “Jong” Uichico found the Niños a very tough constumer to handle.
So tough the challenge mounted by M. Lhuillier was that the Gin Kings needed a spirited endgame push sparked by the Iligan City-native Baguio before finishing off the gritty Cebuano cagers.
It was a close-knit match that was accounted for four deadlocks and 13 lead changes.
The last time the Niños were on top was at 61-60 as sharp-shooting playmaker Celino Cruz knocked in a triple to put Ginebra on top for good, 63-61 with still 6:21 left to play.
It was then showtime for Baguio.
The former Southwestern University Baby Cobra who once held the Slam Dunk king title in the Cebu Amateur Athletic Association (now the CESAFI) converted a beautiful acrobatic shot and then hit a booming triple in between back-to-back baskets by Enrico Villanueva and Willie Wilson to give the Gin Kings their biggest lead, 72-63, at the final 3:18 mark of the contest.
The Niños countered with a 7-2 run to threaten at 70-74 with a little over a minute to go in the game.
The wards of coach Raul “Yayoy” D. Alcoseba could have gotten closer but Bruce Dacia and Stephen Padilla went 1-of-4 from the foul line that further sealed M. Lhuillier’s doom.
Cruz answered a split charities by Padilla with his third triple of the night to settle the final outcome. He finished with 13 points.
Bruce Dacia topscored for M. Lhuillier with 16 points followed by Nailon with 10.
M.Lhuillier, thus, ended their four-game marathon against tough PBA squads with a 1-3 record. They won against Alaska Aces, 75-55, but lost to San Miguel Beermen, 72-83, Purefoods TJ Giants, 65-73, and most recently to Ginebra.
The scores
Ginebra (76)- Baguio 17, Cruz 13, Villanueva 9, Mamaril 8, Bugia 6, Caguioa 6, Tubid 5, Wilson 4, Menk 4, White 2, Kramer 2
Cebu (71) – Dacia 16, Nailon 10, Ybañez 9, Mepaña 9, Padilla 9, Enriquez 7, Saladaga 5, Basco 3, Santos 3 (Emmanuel B. Villaruel)
Barangay Ginebra Kings
Kings rule!
Monday, September 21, 2009
By Rommel C. Manlosa
sunstar.com.ph
THE Barangay Ginebra Kings played solidly in the fourth quarter to take down the M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu Niños, 76-71, in an exhibition game at the jampacked Cebu Coliseum last night.
Cyrus Baguio came off the bench to lead the Gin Kings to victory as he scored a game-high 17 points. He also had nine in the final quarter that zapped away all the efforts of the Niños for good.
The M. Lhuilllier Kwarta Padala squad played exceptionally in the first three quarters and engaged Ginebra in torrid exchange of basket despite the huge disparity in size and height.
Bruce Dacia and Ariel Mepaña delivered the goods quickly for M. Lhuillier as they combined efforts to give Cebu a 9-4 lead.
Ginebra’s hulking frontline of Erick Menk and Enrico Villanueva put Ginebra ahead, 10-9, the first of 19 lead changes.
However, just as Baguio started to make his presence felt off the bench, Dacia was left to handle the scoring duties while Mepaña, coach Yayoy Alcoseba’s most improved player, started to wither under the wings of his counterparts down low.
Cebu’s last taste of the lead was at 61-60at the final 6:29 of the game when the Gin Kings dropped a telling 12-2 run, capped by Baguio’s triple, gave Ginebra the lead for good 72-63 at the 3:18 mark.
M. Lhuillier’s final attempt to take over the game started with Stephen Padilla’s triple and the four free throws of Dacia and Woodrow Enriquez that put Cebu within 74-70 still with 69 seconds remaining.
But their free throws faltered when these were badly needed and Ronald Tubid secured the game for good for Ginebra in the final 16.8 seconds at the free throw line.
Point guard Celino Cruz also contributed double digits for the Gin King with 13, while Dacia who had a brilliant performance all night long, finished with 16 for Cebu.
By Rommel C. Manlosa
sunstar.com.ph
THE Barangay Ginebra Kings played solidly in the fourth quarter to take down the M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu Niños, 76-71, in an exhibition game at the jampacked Cebu Coliseum last night.
Cyrus Baguio came off the bench to lead the Gin Kings to victory as he scored a game-high 17 points. He also had nine in the final quarter that zapped away all the efforts of the Niños for good.
The M. Lhuilllier Kwarta Padala squad played exceptionally in the first three quarters and engaged Ginebra in torrid exchange of basket despite the huge disparity in size and height.
Bruce Dacia and Ariel Mepaña delivered the goods quickly for M. Lhuillier as they combined efforts to give Cebu a 9-4 lead.
Ginebra’s hulking frontline of Erick Menk and Enrico Villanueva put Ginebra ahead, 10-9, the first of 19 lead changes.
However, just as Baguio started to make his presence felt off the bench, Dacia was left to handle the scoring duties while Mepaña, coach Yayoy Alcoseba’s most improved player, started to wither under the wings of his counterparts down low.
Cebu’s last taste of the lead was at 61-60at the final 6:29 of the game when the Gin Kings dropped a telling 12-2 run, capped by Baguio’s triple, gave Ginebra the lead for good 72-63 at the 3:18 mark.
M. Lhuillier’s final attempt to take over the game started with Stephen Padilla’s triple and the four free throws of Dacia and Woodrow Enriquez that put Cebu within 74-70 still with 69 seconds remaining.
But their free throws faltered when these were badly needed and Ronald Tubid secured the game for good for Ginebra in the final 16.8 seconds at the free throw line.
Point guard Celino Cruz also contributed double digits for the Gin King with 13, while Dacia who had a brilliant performance all night long, finished with 16 for Cebu.
Davonn Harp returning to PBA?
source: Manolo Iñigo | sports.inquirer.net
If plans do not miscarry, Davonn Harp, a 6-foot-8 demon in defense, is set to suit up anew with the Barako Bull (formerly Red Bull) in the coming Philippine Basketball Association cage wars.
Harp was told recently that he could rejoin the PBA after the Department of Justice and other government agencies reportedly gave him the go signal to play in the league after submitting the needed documents proving he has Filipino roots.
The PBA had earlier barred Harp and his Red Bull teammate 6-foot-9 Mick Pennisi after failing to meet the citizenship requirements.
Following the departure of big men Harp and Pennisi, then Red Bull coach Guiao said, “Red Bull was wounded by that huge hole in the middle.”
In the 2001-2002 seasons, the Barakos were winners not only because of a flashy offense, but also because of a hard-nosed defense.
Without Harp and Pennisi—who has since transferred to San Miguel Beer—Barako Bull new head coach Leo Isaac has a lot of work ahead of him.
“Certainly, Harp would be a welcome addition to the team,” Isaac was quoted as saying during a recent TV interview, adding that Harp’s presence would boost the team’s rebuilding program.
“But it’s going to be difficult,” said a basketball cognoscenti. “Coach Isaac is not in for a picnic.”
The team has been hurt badly following the loss of top players Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade, Junthy Valenzuela, Cyrus Baguio and longtime coach Yeng Guiao.
If plans do not miscarry, Davonn Harp, a 6-foot-8 demon in defense, is set to suit up anew with the Barako Bull (formerly Red Bull) in the coming Philippine Basketball Association cage wars.
Harp was told recently that he could rejoin the PBA after the Department of Justice and other government agencies reportedly gave him the go signal to play in the league after submitting the needed documents proving he has Filipino roots.
The PBA had earlier barred Harp and his Red Bull teammate 6-foot-9 Mick Pennisi after failing to meet the citizenship requirements.
Following the departure of big men Harp and Pennisi, then Red Bull coach Guiao said, “Red Bull was wounded by that huge hole in the middle.”
In the 2001-2002 seasons, the Barakos were winners not only because of a flashy offense, but also because of a hard-nosed defense.
Without Harp and Pennisi—who has since transferred to San Miguel Beer—Barako Bull new head coach Leo Isaac has a lot of work ahead of him.
“Certainly, Harp would be a welcome addition to the team,” Isaac was quoted as saying during a recent TV interview, adding that Harp’s presence would boost the team’s rebuilding program.
“But it’s going to be difficult,” said a basketball cognoscenti. “Coach Isaac is not in for a picnic.”
The team has been hurt badly following the loss of top players Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade, Junthy Valenzuela, Cyrus Baguio and longtime coach Yeng Guiao.
PBA modifies rules for incoming season
source: philstar.com
The Philippine Basketball Association is bringing out the compass to retrace its original three-point line, extending the circumference of the rainbow arc from 20.6 feet to where Allan Caidic drained a league record 17 triples 18 years ago – 22 feet away from the basket.
Prompted by its mandate to form the national team, the PBA reduced its three-point area several years back to conform with the internationally-accepted standard and familiarize its players with the regular FIBA launching spots.
But having completed its commitment after Powerade-Team Pilipinas’ eighth-place finish in the 25th FIBA-Asia Men’s Championship in Tianjin, China, and with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas taking over, the PBA moved to revert to the 22 feet three-point area as part of a number of rule changes and modifications it is instituting for the 35th season.
As released by Rickie Santos, PBA operations and technical committee chief, the following guidelines will be observed starting with the Philippine Cup which kicks off Oct. 11:
•The 24-second violation will be ignored if the opposing team has clear possession of the basketball.
•All parts of the backboard are considered in play when struck by the ball except the back of the backboard, which is not in play.
a. The ball is considered out of bounds if the ball hits the top of the board and passes directly behind the backboard from any point.
b. The ball is considered out of bounds if the ball hits the top of the board and then hits the game clock, shot clock, support or any device above the backboard.
c. It is considered a violation attempting a field goal directly behind the backboard.
d. Any ball that rebounds and goes over the top and passes directly behind the backboard without hitting any part of the board is considered out-of-bounds.
• Hanging on the rim after a dunk is now allowed (monkey ride).
• Landing spot rule:
a. If without contact, Flagrant Foul Penalty 1 is called - two free throws are awarded, ball possession is retained by team of offended player, guilty player sits for three playing minutes.
If with contact, Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 is called – two free throws are awarded, team of offended player retains ball possession, and guilty player is ejected from the game. Automatic fine of minimum P10,000. Minimum of one day suspension if contact resulted in dire consequence (i.e. injury to player resulting in inability to play).
• The shaded lane returns to the rectangular shape from the trapezoid.
• A tip-in is considered act of shooting.
• A player screening an opponent must have both feet on the floor when contact occurs. A player setting a screen can move his body into a new but equal position sideways provided his shoulders are directly squared with his foot.
The screener cannot lean forward towards the defender or extend any part of his body (i.e., extending an arm, leg or hips) in attempting to impede the basketball defender’s movement in covering his man.
Pushing or bumping is illegal personal contact of an opponent in which a defensive player forcibly moves or attempts to move a shooter, cutter or dribbler wherein the offensive player is placed at a disadvantage. A foul will be called if the defender bumps 1) a shooter, 2) a cutter, 3) a dribbler who loses the ball.
Falling down to fake a foul (flopping) will not be tolerated. Referees will now give a warning on the first infraction. Subsequently, a technical foul will be given on the next violation.
The Philippine Basketball Association is bringing out the compass to retrace its original three-point line, extending the circumference of the rainbow arc from 20.6 feet to where Allan Caidic drained a league record 17 triples 18 years ago – 22 feet away from the basket.
Prompted by its mandate to form the national team, the PBA reduced its three-point area several years back to conform with the internationally-accepted standard and familiarize its players with the regular FIBA launching spots.
But having completed its commitment after Powerade-Team Pilipinas’ eighth-place finish in the 25th FIBA-Asia Men’s Championship in Tianjin, China, and with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas taking over, the PBA moved to revert to the 22 feet three-point area as part of a number of rule changes and modifications it is instituting for the 35th season.
As released by Rickie Santos, PBA operations and technical committee chief, the following guidelines will be observed starting with the Philippine Cup which kicks off Oct. 11:
•The 24-second violation will be ignored if the opposing team has clear possession of the basketball.
•All parts of the backboard are considered in play when struck by the ball except the back of the backboard, which is not in play.
a. The ball is considered out of bounds if the ball hits the top of the board and passes directly behind the backboard from any point.
b. The ball is considered out of bounds if the ball hits the top of the board and then hits the game clock, shot clock, support or any device above the backboard.
c. It is considered a violation attempting a field goal directly behind the backboard.
d. Any ball that rebounds and goes over the top and passes directly behind the backboard without hitting any part of the board is considered out-of-bounds.
• Hanging on the rim after a dunk is now allowed (monkey ride).
• Landing spot rule:
a. If without contact, Flagrant Foul Penalty 1 is called - two free throws are awarded, ball possession is retained by team of offended player, guilty player sits for three playing minutes.
If with contact, Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 is called – two free throws are awarded, team of offended player retains ball possession, and guilty player is ejected from the game. Automatic fine of minimum P10,000. Minimum of one day suspension if contact resulted in dire consequence (i.e. injury to player resulting in inability to play).
• The shaded lane returns to the rectangular shape from the trapezoid.
• A tip-in is considered act of shooting.
• A player screening an opponent must have both feet on the floor when contact occurs. A player setting a screen can move his body into a new but equal position sideways provided his shoulders are directly squared with his foot.
The screener cannot lean forward towards the defender or extend any part of his body (i.e., extending an arm, leg or hips) in attempting to impede the basketball defender’s movement in covering his man.
Pushing or bumping is illegal personal contact of an opponent in which a defensive player forcibly moves or attempts to move a shooter, cutter or dribbler wherein the offensive player is placed at a disadvantage. A foul will be called if the defender bumps 1) a shooter, 2) a cutter, 3) a dribbler who loses the ball.
Falling down to fake a foul (flopping) will not be tolerated. Referees will now give a warning on the first infraction. Subsequently, a technical foul will be given on the next violation.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Japeth returns with case still unresolved
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines - Japeth Aguilar will start working out with Smart Gilas in the next few days to stay in shape as the PBA draf pick tries to resolve issues with the Burger King and Smart Gilas.
Burger King top official Lito Alvarez told The STAR yesterday that he’s been approached by a Smart official seeking permission to allow the controversial player to practice with the developmental team.
Reports said Aguilar is either back in town or due to return today.
“They asked me if Japeth could be allowed to practice with Smart Gilas, San Beda and Ateneo. I told them there’s no problem since we have no contract with Japeth yet,” said Alvarez
“But Japeth playing for Smart Gilas in the coming PBA All-Filipino tournament is another thing. We can’t allow it,” Alvarez said.
Alvarez is still hoping the Aguilar case would be resolved with the 6-foot-9 behemoth honoring his commitment with Burger King.
“I’m still waiting for their (Smart Gilas) move. (SBP president) Manny Pangilinan has promised that they will help resolve the problem,” said Alvarez.
The BK top official said he hasn’t brought the case to the PBA Commissioner’s Office for arbitration since the case could be settled between the two teams.
“There’s still time. The season won’t open until Oct. 11,” said Alvarez.
The PBA Board of Governors convenes in a meeting today at the PBA office in Libis, Quezon City. Alvarez said he has no intention of raising the Aguilar issue during the meeting.
Smart Gilas, a developmental team being prepared for the 2011 Fiba Asia Championship, is playing in the coming Philippine Cup as guest team.
Burger King made Aguilar the No. 1 pick in the recent PBA draft. But the player had a change of heart and decided to forego his stint in the pro league and play for Smart Gilas.
MANILA, Philippines - Japeth Aguilar will start working out with Smart Gilas in the next few days to stay in shape as the PBA draf pick tries to resolve issues with the Burger King and Smart Gilas.
Burger King top official Lito Alvarez told The STAR yesterday that he’s been approached by a Smart official seeking permission to allow the controversial player to practice with the developmental team.
Reports said Aguilar is either back in town or due to return today.
“They asked me if Japeth could be allowed to practice with Smart Gilas, San Beda and Ateneo. I told them there’s no problem since we have no contract with Japeth yet,” said Alvarez
“But Japeth playing for Smart Gilas in the coming PBA All-Filipino tournament is another thing. We can’t allow it,” Alvarez said.
Alvarez is still hoping the Aguilar case would be resolved with the 6-foot-9 behemoth honoring his commitment with Burger King.
“I’m still waiting for their (Smart Gilas) move. (SBP president) Manny Pangilinan has promised that they will help resolve the problem,” said Alvarez.
The BK top official said he hasn’t brought the case to the PBA Commissioner’s Office for arbitration since the case could be settled between the two teams.
“There’s still time. The season won’t open until Oct. 11,” said Alvarez.
The PBA Board of Governors convenes in a meeting today at the PBA office in Libis, Quezon City. Alvarez said he has no intention of raising the Aguilar issue during the meeting.
Smart Gilas, a developmental team being prepared for the 2011 Fiba Asia Championship, is playing in the coming Philippine Cup as guest team.
Burger King made Aguilar the No. 1 pick in the recent PBA draft. But the player had a change of heart and decided to forego his stint in the pro league and play for Smart Gilas.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Tigers-Aces ushers in PBA pre-season
Ten pre-season games, highlighted by simultaneous matches in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan and Concepcion, Tarlac, get the ball rolling for the 35th year of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
The annual exhibition series held prior to the start of the season and involving all 10 teams, kicks off on Sept. 25 at the Astrodome when the rebuilt Coca-Cola Tigers test the mettle of last year's Philippine Cup runner-up Alaska Aces in the lone Friday game set at 6 p.m.
The Tigers are expected to parade new recruits Ken Bono, Larry Rodriguez, Jojo Duncil and the year's No. 3 overall pick in Chris Ross against the solid, veteran rotation of the Aces bannered by former league MVP Willie Miller, L.A. Tenorio, Joe DeVance and Sonny Thoss.
The following day, the league takes its act to the provinces as Barangay Ginebra and defending Fiesta Cup champion San Miguel clash in Pangasinan in a rematch of last year's season-ending Finals.
The 4 p.m. match will see for the first time Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda suiting up for the Beermen following their off-season acquisition from Burger King and Sta. Lucia, respectively.
The Kings, on the other hand, are set to flaunt new faces Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Paolo Bugia and Celino Cruz. The pre-season games may also be used by coach Jong Uichcio as perfect opportunity to slowly get back Mark Caguioa in shape after the prolific Ginebra scorer sat out the entire 34th season owing to an injury.
On the same time and date as the Ginebra-San Miguel game is the clash between Burger King and Purefoods in Tarlac. The Giants will have in their arsenal No. 2 draft pick Rico Maierhofer and returnee Marc Pingris and Paul Artadi.
On Sept. 28, four other teams make their respective debuts in the pre-season games. Barako Bull takes on Rain or Shine at Arellano University ( 2 p.m), while a few hours later, defending All-Filipino champion Talk 'N Text meets Sta. Lucia at Lyceum University. The Philippine Star
The annual exhibition series held prior to the start of the season and involving all 10 teams, kicks off on Sept. 25 at the Astrodome when the rebuilt Coca-Cola Tigers test the mettle of last year's Philippine Cup runner-up Alaska Aces in the lone Friday game set at 6 p.m.
The Tigers are expected to parade new recruits Ken Bono, Larry Rodriguez, Jojo Duncil and the year's No. 3 overall pick in Chris Ross against the solid, veteran rotation of the Aces bannered by former league MVP Willie Miller, L.A. Tenorio, Joe DeVance and Sonny Thoss.
The following day, the league takes its act to the provinces as Barangay Ginebra and defending Fiesta Cup champion San Miguel clash in Pangasinan in a rematch of last year's season-ending Finals.
The 4 p.m. match will see for the first time Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda suiting up for the Beermen following their off-season acquisition from Burger King and Sta. Lucia, respectively.
The Kings, on the other hand, are set to flaunt new faces Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Paolo Bugia and Celino Cruz. The pre-season games may also be used by coach Jong Uichcio as perfect opportunity to slowly get back Mark Caguioa in shape after the prolific Ginebra scorer sat out the entire 34th season owing to an injury.
On the same time and date as the Ginebra-San Miguel game is the clash between Burger King and Purefoods in Tarlac. The Giants will have in their arsenal No. 2 draft pick Rico Maierhofer and returnee Marc Pingris and Paul Artadi.
On Sept. 28, four other teams make their respective debuts in the pre-season games. Barako Bull takes on Rain or Shine at Arellano University ( 2 p.m), while a few hours later, defending All-Filipino champion Talk 'N Text meets Sta. Lucia at Lyceum University. The Philippine Star
Michael Jackson Scare Prank (Feat. Mark Cardona)
source: teampilipinas.info
(recorded Sept 14 @ Serbia) Jared Dillinger and Ren Ritualo set up their teammate Mark Cardona to watch a news clip about Michael Jackson. However, what he didn't know was that they were planning something else for him muuaaahhhahah (Jared D)
(thanks to Jared Dillinger for the Video!)
(recorded Sept 14 @ Serbia) Jared Dillinger and Ren Ritualo set up their teammate Mark Cardona to watch a news clip about Michael Jackson. However, what he didn't know was that they were planning something else for him muuaaahhhahah (Jared D)
(thanks to Jared Dillinger for the Video!)
Slot reserved for Japeth
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Fourteen seats taken, one left open.
And Burger King is reserving the spot to Japeth Aguilar.
Whopper head coach Yeng Guiao said on Tuesday the team is expecting the worst but is still hoping for the best regarding the case of Aguilar, their No. 1 overall pick in the last Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft who refused to sign their maximum offer for a rookie.
“We are having this mindset that we might play without him this coming season,” said Guiao. The 35th season of the league opens on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum.
“Of course, we would want him to be with our squad, which is why his spot is still open once he returns and reaches an agreement with us,” he added.
The team just signed free agent Chico Lanete to complete its 14-man roster and Guiao said they are reserving the last spot to the six-foot-10 former Western Kentucky University reserve in case the issue is settled before the league opens.
The 22-year-old Aguilar rejected Burger King’s three-year, P8.7-million offer and said instead that he will play for the Smart Gilas national team of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
But even without Aguilar, Guiao said the team remains formidable in the coming Philippine Cup.
“The team is doing okay and we’re still a pretty solid team. This team has a lot of upside with our new acquisitions and the holdovers building chemistry quickly,” said Guiao. “But if Japeth joins us, then we will be a team to contend with this season.”
The five-foot-11 Lanete was the latest addition to the Burger King roster. Lanete had stints with Purefoods Tender Juicy and Barangay Ginebra.
The only key player in its core to be taken off the roster was Arwind Santos, who was traded to San Miguel Beer in a multiplayer deal. Burger King also shipped Ken Bono, whom they got in a trade with the Beermen, to Coca-Cola.
The Whopper also acquired a key player in Ronjay Buenafe from the Tigers and also signed rookies Ronnie Matias, the team’s first-round selection, and Orlando Daroya from the Kings via a trade.
The Bert Lina franchise is eyeing its first crown in the PBA, while Guiao is looking for his first All-Filipino title after leading Red Bull to five import-flavored conference championships.
If Aguilar decides to honor his commitment with Burger King, Guiao said their chance of winning would look brighter.
Fourteen seats taken, one left open.
And Burger King is reserving the spot to Japeth Aguilar.
Whopper head coach Yeng Guiao said on Tuesday the team is expecting the worst but is still hoping for the best regarding the case of Aguilar, their No. 1 overall pick in the last Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Rookie Draft who refused to sign their maximum offer for a rookie.
“We are having this mindset that we might play without him this coming season,” said Guiao. The 35th season of the league opens on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum.
“Of course, we would want him to be with our squad, which is why his spot is still open once he returns and reaches an agreement with us,” he added.
The team just signed free agent Chico Lanete to complete its 14-man roster and Guiao said they are reserving the last spot to the six-foot-10 former Western Kentucky University reserve in case the issue is settled before the league opens.
The 22-year-old Aguilar rejected Burger King’s three-year, P8.7-million offer and said instead that he will play for the Smart Gilas national team of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
But even without Aguilar, Guiao said the team remains formidable in the coming Philippine Cup.
“The team is doing okay and we’re still a pretty solid team. This team has a lot of upside with our new acquisitions and the holdovers building chemistry quickly,” said Guiao. “But if Japeth joins us, then we will be a team to contend with this season.”
The five-foot-11 Lanete was the latest addition to the Burger King roster. Lanete had stints with Purefoods Tender Juicy and Barangay Ginebra.
The only key player in its core to be taken off the roster was Arwind Santos, who was traded to San Miguel Beer in a multiplayer deal. Burger King also shipped Ken Bono, whom they got in a trade with the Beermen, to Coca-Cola.
The Whopper also acquired a key player in Ronjay Buenafe from the Tigers and also signed rookies Ronnie Matias, the team’s first-round selection, and Orlando Daroya from the Kings via a trade.
The Bert Lina franchise is eyeing its first crown in the PBA, while Guiao is looking for his first All-Filipino title after leading Red Bull to five import-flavored conference championships.
If Aguilar decides to honor his commitment with Burger King, Guiao said their chance of winning would look brighter.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Season 35 theme could be based on Big J career
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Former senator and the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) Living Legend Robert Jaworski remains on the priority list of board chairman Lito Alvarez to be the guest of honor in the opening ceremonies of the 35th season, which unreels on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Burger King team manager told the BusinessMirror on Sunday that Jaworski’s appearance will be discussed with the events groups that are bidding for the rights of the opening ceremonies.
“I will tell the bidders na si coach Sonny [Jaworski] ang kukunin nating guest of honor and from there, malalaman natin ang theme ng 35th season ng PBA,” said Alvarez, who is scheduled to have a marathon meeting on Monday with at least six bidders for the opening ceremonies.
“Alam mo naman ’yang mga ’yan, very creative ang mind pagdating sa pagbuo ng concept but I will make sure to bring up with them na si coach Sonny ang magiging guest of honor ng opening ceremonies natin,” he added.
Last season the league had the theme “PBA Caring for Batang Pinoy” under chairman Joaqui Trillo of Alaska. The league conducted several basketball clinics with kids and went as far as Victorias City in Negros Occidental and Panabo City in Davao during the annual All-Star Game.
“Malaki ang naging contribution ni coach Sonny sa popularity ng PBA and one way of giving it back to him is make him our guest of honor,” said Alvarez.
Before the season opens, the league will enshrine seven individuals in the PBA Hall of Fame on October 9 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City.
The inductees are cage greats Allan Caidic, Samboy Lim, Hector Calma, seven-time Best Import awardee Bobby Parks, Ricky Brown, the late commissioner Jun Bernardino and former chairman Honeyboy Palanca III. Alvarez said the Hall of Fame enshrinement is a good activity to kick off the coming season of the PBA.
Former senator and the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) Living Legend Robert Jaworski remains on the priority list of board chairman Lito Alvarez to be the guest of honor in the opening ceremonies of the 35th season, which unreels on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Burger King team manager told the BusinessMirror on Sunday that Jaworski’s appearance will be discussed with the events groups that are bidding for the rights of the opening ceremonies.
“I will tell the bidders na si coach Sonny [Jaworski] ang kukunin nating guest of honor and from there, malalaman natin ang theme ng 35th season ng PBA,” said Alvarez, who is scheduled to have a marathon meeting on Monday with at least six bidders for the opening ceremonies.
“Alam mo naman ’yang mga ’yan, very creative ang mind pagdating sa pagbuo ng concept but I will make sure to bring up with them na si coach Sonny ang magiging guest of honor ng opening ceremonies natin,” he added.
Last season the league had the theme “PBA Caring for Batang Pinoy” under chairman Joaqui Trillo of Alaska. The league conducted several basketball clinics with kids and went as far as Victorias City in Negros Occidental and Panabo City in Davao during the annual All-Star Game.
“Malaki ang naging contribution ni coach Sonny sa popularity ng PBA and one way of giving it back to him is make him our guest of honor,” said Alvarez.
Before the season opens, the league will enshrine seven individuals in the PBA Hall of Fame on October 9 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City.
The inductees are cage greats Allan Caidic, Samboy Lim, Hector Calma, seven-time Best Import awardee Bobby Parks, Ricky Brown, the late commissioner Jun Bernardino and former chairman Honeyboy Palanca III. Alvarez said the Hall of Fame enshrinement is a good activity to kick off the coming season of the PBA.
Teams test readiness against foreign clubs
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Rain or Shine leaves for Dubai on September 30 as part of the team’s buildup for the coming season of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
Elasto Painters head coach Caloy Garcia said the tune-up against still-undetermined squads will test the team’s chemistry.
“Hindi pa namin alam kung sino ang makakalaban pero it’s a good opportunity for us na ma-test ang chemistry especially since we have new players in the team,” said Garcia.
The latest addition to the team is Mike Hrabak, who was released by Barako Bull.
The six-foot-seven Hrabak, Jeff Chan, Mark Telan and rookies Jervy Cruz and Marcy Arellano are the new faces in the Rain or Shine roster, which will still be bannered by last season’s Rookie of the Year Gabe Norwood and Solomon Mercado.
Rain or Shine is one of several teams playing exhibition games abroad as part of their preparations for the 35th season of the PBA, which starts on October 11. The team is coming off a breakthrough season after finishing fourth in the season-ending Fiesta Conference.
Coca-Cola will also leave for Singapore on Thursday to play a tune-up game against the Singapore Slingers. Tigers assistant coach Bo Perasol said the game will be a good workout for the team and new big men Ken Bono and Dennis Espino.
“This will be a good opportunity for us to show what we can do in the coming PBA season,” said Perasol, who was the head coach of Air21 that lost to the very same team in a pair of exhibition games last year.
“Malakas ang Slingers but I think we can match up with them,” he added. “At maganda na ring opportunity for us to have team bonding.”
Coke is hoping to end a six-year title drought, and the team now has renewed hopes after trading for the 14-year veteran Espino.
Sister teams Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer have also scheduled a tune-up game in Singapore. The Kings and the Beermen will leave on September 28.
Rain or Shine leaves for Dubai on September 30 as part of the team’s buildup for the coming season of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
Elasto Painters head coach Caloy Garcia said the tune-up against still-undetermined squads will test the team’s chemistry.
“Hindi pa namin alam kung sino ang makakalaban pero it’s a good opportunity for us na ma-test ang chemistry especially since we have new players in the team,” said Garcia.
The latest addition to the team is Mike Hrabak, who was released by Barako Bull.
The six-foot-seven Hrabak, Jeff Chan, Mark Telan and rookies Jervy Cruz and Marcy Arellano are the new faces in the Rain or Shine roster, which will still be bannered by last season’s Rookie of the Year Gabe Norwood and Solomon Mercado.
Rain or Shine is one of several teams playing exhibition games abroad as part of their preparations for the 35th season of the PBA, which starts on October 11. The team is coming off a breakthrough season after finishing fourth in the season-ending Fiesta Conference.
Coca-Cola will also leave for Singapore on Thursday to play a tune-up game against the Singapore Slingers. Tigers assistant coach Bo Perasol said the game will be a good workout for the team and new big men Ken Bono and Dennis Espino.
“This will be a good opportunity for us to show what we can do in the coming PBA season,” said Perasol, who was the head coach of Air21 that lost to the very same team in a pair of exhibition games last year.
“Malakas ang Slingers but I think we can match up with them,” he added. “At maganda na ring opportunity for us to have team bonding.”
Coke is hoping to end a six-year title drought, and the team now has renewed hopes after trading for the 14-year veteran Espino.
Sister teams Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer have also scheduled a tune-up game in Singapore. The Kings and the Beermen will leave on September 28.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Tugade, Seigle return
Already loaded with stars in all positions, San Miguel Beer will welcome back veterans forwards Fil-Am Danny Seigle and Lordy Tugade in the coming PBA Philippine Cup set Oct. 11 at the Araneta Coliseum.
SMB head coach Siot Tanquingcen said yesterday that Seigle and Tugade, who were both sidelined last conference due to injuries, were impressive during the team's recent practice.
"But we don't want to rush them," Tanquingcen said. "Both of them are doing okay."
Tugade, the 6-foot-3 native of Alaminos, Pangasinan, missed the latter part of last season's Philippine Cup and the entire Fiesta Cup with a left knee injury.
Seigle and Tugade, according Hector Calma, the one-time San Miguel playmaker who is now the team manager, are under the watchful eyes of conditioning coach Chester Tiongson.
"Maski hindi pa nag-start nun ang training ng team, they already started with their conditioning," Calma said. "Sa ngayon OK naman silang dalawa, nakaka-sabay na sa ensayo. Siguro both of them nasa 80 percent na ang condition sila."
In a recent survey, nine coaches have tagged San Miguel Beer and defending champion Talk 'N Text as the 'teams to beat' in the Philippine Cup.
Calma said that they are hoping to carry the momentum of their successful title campaign in the Fiesta Cup as they try to win their first All-Filipino championship in eight years or since winning it in 2001 under coach Jong Uichico, who is now with the Ginebra Kings. Waylon Galvez - Manila Bulletin
SMB head coach Siot Tanquingcen said yesterday that Seigle and Tugade, who were both sidelined last conference due to injuries, were impressive during the team's recent practice.
"But we don't want to rush them," Tanquingcen said. "Both of them are doing okay."
Tugade, the 6-foot-3 native of Alaminos, Pangasinan, missed the latter part of last season's Philippine Cup and the entire Fiesta Cup with a left knee injury.
Seigle and Tugade, according Hector Calma, the one-time San Miguel playmaker who is now the team manager, are under the watchful eyes of conditioning coach Chester Tiongson.
"Maski hindi pa nag-start nun ang training ng team, they already started with their conditioning," Calma said. "Sa ngayon OK naman silang dalawa, nakaka-sabay na sa ensayo. Siguro both of them nasa 80 percent na ang condition sila."
In a recent survey, nine coaches have tagged San Miguel Beer and defending champion Talk 'N Text as the 'teams to beat' in the Philippine Cup.
Calma said that they are hoping to carry the momentum of their successful title campaign in the Fiesta Cup as they try to win their first All-Filipino championship in eight years or since winning it in 2001 under coach Jong Uichico, who is now with the Ginebra Kings. Waylon Galvez - Manila Bulletin
'Triggerman' Caidic earns admiration of NBA greats
source: gmanews.tv
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is one of few players in the National Basketball Association (NBA) that is hard to impress.
But for one quarter Friday night at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum, a Filipino player has caught the fancy of the man who possessed the most lethal weapon in the game of basketball for many years – the Sky Hook.
“No doubt about it, Caidic was the most impressive among the local players," said Abdul-Jabbar, assistant coach of the NBA Generations, during a post-game press conference after his team scored a 109-86 rout of the PBA All-Stars.
The player known in the local basketball scene as “The Triggerman", was right on target. He made five triples in the first period to lead all scorers from the PBA All-Stars.
Although he went scoreless after that, Caidic has earned Abdul-Jabar’s fancy as the 7-foot-2 former center of the Los Angeles Lakers was amazed by his excellent marksmanship.
Abdul-Jabbar played in the NBA for three generations and probably the only player who had the distinction of going up against the likes of such great players like Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Julius Erving, Larry Bird and all the way to the time of Michael Jordan.
But at least for one night, Abdul-Jabbar, who became the ultimate prize of a toss coin between the Phoenix Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1969 NBA Draft, could recall Caidic as one of those who at least impressed him.
He wasn’t the only player whose attention has been caught by a happy-shooting-man who wore jersey No. 8.
Fellow NBA great Dominique Wilkins, a two-time slam dunk champion, also has nice words on Caidic, who retired in the PBA holding a single-game scoring record of 79 points and most three-point shots made in a game with 17.
“For one quarter, I thought he could win the game all by himself," said Wilkins. “You can see that he certainly has the talent and his shooting is remarkable. He simply didn’t have enough gas in he second half," said the former Atlanta Hawk, who was even designated to guard the former PBA most valuable player in the second half.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is one of few players in the National Basketball Association (NBA) that is hard to impress.
But for one quarter Friday night at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum, a Filipino player has caught the fancy of the man who possessed the most lethal weapon in the game of basketball for many years – the Sky Hook.
“No doubt about it, Caidic was the most impressive among the local players," said Abdul-Jabbar, assistant coach of the NBA Generations, during a post-game press conference after his team scored a 109-86 rout of the PBA All-Stars.
The player known in the local basketball scene as “The Triggerman", was right on target. He made five triples in the first period to lead all scorers from the PBA All-Stars.
Although he went scoreless after that, Caidic has earned Abdul-Jabar’s fancy as the 7-foot-2 former center of the Los Angeles Lakers was amazed by his excellent marksmanship.
Abdul-Jabbar played in the NBA for three generations and probably the only player who had the distinction of going up against the likes of such great players like Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Julius Erving, Larry Bird and all the way to the time of Michael Jordan.
But at least for one night, Abdul-Jabbar, who became the ultimate prize of a toss coin between the Phoenix Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1969 NBA Draft, could recall Caidic as one of those who at least impressed him.
He wasn’t the only player whose attention has been caught by a happy-shooting-man who wore jersey No. 8.
Fellow NBA great Dominique Wilkins, a two-time slam dunk champion, also has nice words on Caidic, who retired in the PBA holding a single-game scoring record of 79 points and most three-point shots made in a game with 17.
“For one quarter, I thought he could win the game all by himself," said Wilkins. “You can see that he certainly has the talent and his shooting is remarkable. He simply didn’t have enough gas in he second half," said the former Atlanta Hawk, who was even designated to guard the former PBA most valuable player in the second half.
NBA veterans humble PBA All-Stars
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines - Dominique Wilkins and company came, saw and, as expected, conquered.
Wilkins, at 49, took Manila by storm, leading the NBA Generations team to a 109-86 whipping of the PBA All-Stars in the NBA Asia Challenge at the Araneta Coliseum last night.
With excess poundage and all, the former Atlanta Hawks superstar displayed his vintage form, coming through with a game-high 28 points that went on top of five rebounds, two steals and one assist in 20 minutes of play.
[source]
Robert Horry, Tim Hardaway and Vlade Divac showed flashes of brilliance as their contributions in the exhibition match which proved to be a resounding success despite the bad weather.
“We really wanted to focus on pleasing the fans. We really wanted to come out and perform for them,” said NBA Generations coach Rory White.
I had a fun time. I enjoyed it. It’s been more than 10 years since I played in a game with a real competitive atmosphere,” said Wilkins.
“It was a good experience though I didn’t play. I had as much fun as the players had. I enjoyed the atmosphere,” said Kareem Abdul Jabbar, who helped White call the shots for their team.
The PBA selection faded away but not after putting up a good stand in the first half, fighting the visitors through two deadlocks and 10 lead changes.
Curiously, most of the excitement from the home team came from its own legends in Allan Caidic, Alvin Patrimonio and Ronnie Magsanoc. Caidic paced the PBA selection with 15 points on 5-of-10 shooting in the opening quarter with Patrimonio sharing nine points and eight rebounds and Magsanoc adding eight points and three assists.
The PBA starting five of Caidic, Patrimonio, Wynne Arboleda, Arwind Santos and Asi Taulava held their own against Wilkins, Horry, Divac, Hardaway and Billy Thomas in a free-wheeling contest early on, giving the host team a 26-25 edge in the first quarter.
Patrimonio knocked down a trey in his first attempt then Caidic took over, rifling in five straight triples.
The Filipinos kept the game close through the second quarter before the Americans stepped up the tempo and slowly pulled away in the match serving as the Manila leg of their Asian tour which had its initial stop in Korea last week.
The scores:
NBA 109 -- Wilkins 28, Hubbard 18, Ellis 11, Horry 10, Thomas 9, Robinson 8, Dial 8, Hardaway 7, Divac 6, Smith 4.
PBA 86 -- Caidic 15, Miller 14, Hontiveros 10, Patrimonio 9, Magsanoc 8, Villanueva 8, Paras 7, Santos 5, Yeo 5, Taulava 3, Pingris 2, Duremdes 0, Arboleda 0, Thoss 0, Reyes 0.
MANILA, Philippines - Dominique Wilkins and company came, saw and, as expected, conquered.
Wilkins, at 49, took Manila by storm, leading the NBA Generations team to a 109-86 whipping of the PBA All-Stars in the NBA Asia Challenge at the Araneta Coliseum last night.
With excess poundage and all, the former Atlanta Hawks superstar displayed his vintage form, coming through with a game-high 28 points that went on top of five rebounds, two steals and one assist in 20 minutes of play.
[source]
Robert Horry, Tim Hardaway and Vlade Divac showed flashes of brilliance as their contributions in the exhibition match which proved to be a resounding success despite the bad weather.
“We really wanted to focus on pleasing the fans. We really wanted to come out and perform for them,” said NBA Generations coach Rory White.
I had a fun time. I enjoyed it. It’s been more than 10 years since I played in a game with a real competitive atmosphere,” said Wilkins.
“It was a good experience though I didn’t play. I had as much fun as the players had. I enjoyed the atmosphere,” said Kareem Abdul Jabbar, who helped White call the shots for their team.
The PBA selection faded away but not after putting up a good stand in the first half, fighting the visitors through two deadlocks and 10 lead changes.
Curiously, most of the excitement from the home team came from its own legends in Allan Caidic, Alvin Patrimonio and Ronnie Magsanoc. Caidic paced the PBA selection with 15 points on 5-of-10 shooting in the opening quarter with Patrimonio sharing nine points and eight rebounds and Magsanoc adding eight points and three assists.
The PBA starting five of Caidic, Patrimonio, Wynne Arboleda, Arwind Santos and Asi Taulava held their own against Wilkins, Horry, Divac, Hardaway and Billy Thomas in a free-wheeling contest early on, giving the host team a 26-25 edge in the first quarter.
Patrimonio knocked down a trey in his first attempt then Caidic took over, rifling in five straight triples.
The Filipinos kept the game close through the second quarter before the Americans stepped up the tempo and slowly pulled away in the match serving as the Manila leg of their Asian tour which had its initial stop in Korea last week.
The scores:
NBA 109 -- Wilkins 28, Hubbard 18, Ellis 11, Horry 10, Thomas 9, Robinson 8, Dial 8, Hardaway 7, Divac 6, Smith 4.
PBA 86 -- Caidic 15, Miller 14, Hontiveros 10, Patrimonio 9, Magsanoc 8, Villanueva 8, Paras 7, Santos 5, Yeo 5, Taulava 3, Pingris 2, Duremdes 0, Arboleda 0, Thoss 0, Reyes 0.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Aguilar, Burger King now ready to settle dispute
By Josef T. Ramos, Correspondent
Top overall pick rookie Japeth Aguilar and the Burger King management are all set to resolve their differences before the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 35th season kicks off.
A reliable source, who requested anonymity, told The Manila Times that Aguilar will meet Burger King Team Governor and PBA Chairman Lito Alvarez to sign the P8.7-million three-year contract once the 6’10” rookie returns to the country from the United States.
“I think they [Aguilar’s camp] realized now what would be the consequences,” said the source. “As far as I know Japeth’s father [Peter Aguilar] is doing what’s the best for his son and that’s to play in the PBA and serve the country. I’m sure everything will be fine in just few days.”
The source also cited that Aguilar’s problem regarding his former agent Dondon Monteverde, who is set to sue him for contract breach, as one of the many reasons why the former West Kentucky standout is thinking of renewing talks with Burger King.
Aguilar, who went to the US for a two-week vacation, had previously refused to sign with Burger King—the team that selected him as the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft. The top pick wanted to play with the Smart Gilas team under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
But Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Noli Eala clarified that they have no standing offer to Aguilar to play with Smart Gilas.
Alvarez quoted Samahang Basketbol President Manny Pangilinan as saying that Smart Gilas will not entertain Aguilar unless the conflict between him and the Burger King management is resolved.
Besides, the action of Aguilar doesn’t also sit well with other PBA board of governors.
Had Aguilar refused to sign with Burger King, he would have been given a severe sanction, possibly a lifetime ban to play in the pro league.
Top overall pick rookie Japeth Aguilar and the Burger King management are all set to resolve their differences before the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 35th season kicks off.
A reliable source, who requested anonymity, told The Manila Times that Aguilar will meet Burger King Team Governor and PBA Chairman Lito Alvarez to sign the P8.7-million three-year contract once the 6’10” rookie returns to the country from the United States.
“I think they [Aguilar’s camp] realized now what would be the consequences,” said the source. “As far as I know Japeth’s father [Peter Aguilar] is doing what’s the best for his son and that’s to play in the PBA and serve the country. I’m sure everything will be fine in just few days.”
The source also cited that Aguilar’s problem regarding his former agent Dondon Monteverde, who is set to sue him for contract breach, as one of the many reasons why the former West Kentucky standout is thinking of renewing talks with Burger King.
Aguilar, who went to the US for a two-week vacation, had previously refused to sign with Burger King—the team that selected him as the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft. The top pick wanted to play with the Smart Gilas team under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
But Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Noli Eala clarified that they have no standing offer to Aguilar to play with Smart Gilas.
Alvarez quoted Samahang Basketbol President Manny Pangilinan as saying that Smart Gilas will not entertain Aguilar unless the conflict between him and the Burger King management is resolved.
Besides, the action of Aguilar doesn’t also sit well with other PBA board of governors.
Had Aguilar refused to sign with Burger King, he would have been given a severe sanction, possibly a lifetime ban to play in the pro league.
SCRIPT # 5: GINEBRA PROBLEMATIC
source: NBN Sports Scripts [Septmebr 10, 2009]
SA BASKETBALL…
SA SOBRANG DAMI NG MGA PLAYERS--- PROBLEMADO NGAYON SA PAG FINALIZE NG LINE-UP SI BARANGAY GINEBRA MENTOR JONG UICHICO.
SA KANYANG PAGBIBIGAY NG UPDATE SA NBN SPORTS--- SINABI NG 8-TIME CHAMPION COACH NA NAG-UUMPAW SA PLAYERS ANG KANILANG TEAM.
SA NGAYON AY PINATIGIL NA UMANO NIYA ANG TRY-OUTS DAHIL SA LABING WALONG PLAYERS NA ANG NASA KANYANG BAKURAN.
NI-RELEASE NA NG GINEBRA SINA MARK ISIP--- HOMER SE--- CHICO LANETE--- PCHOLO VILLANUEVA--- CHRIS PACANA--- JAY-AR AQUINO--- AT MACKY ESCALONA.
PERO SADYANG MASIKIP PA RIN ANG GINS DAHIL MAYRUON PANG LABING WALONG MANLALARO NA NAG-AAGAW-AGAWAN SA 14-MAN LINE-UP.
GAYUNPAMAN--- NANINIWALA SI UICHICO NA MAHABA PA ANG ORAS UPANG MAPAG-ARALAN NIYA ANG BEST 14.
SAMANTALA--- UUMPISAHAN NAMAN NI UICHICO NA SUKATIN ANG TUNAY NA TIKAS NG KANYANG MGA PLAYERS SA ISNAG SCRIMMAGE KONTRA SANTA LUCIA REALTORS SA XABIER GYM SA SAN JUAN BUKAS NG ALAS DIYES NG UMAGA.
KASABAY NITO--- INAMIN NI UICHICO NA WALA NA SILANG TRADE PANG PAPASUKAN.
ITINANGGI RIN NITO ANG BALITANG KINUKUHA NILA ANG HIGH FLYING REALTOR NA SI KELLY WILLIAMS.
MAGING SI SANTA LUCIA BENCH TACTICIAN BOYET FERNANDEZ AY NATAWA NANG AMING TANUNGIN KUNG ON THE TRADING BLOCK NA BA ANG 2008 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER.
SA BASKETBALL…
SA SOBRANG DAMI NG MGA PLAYERS--- PROBLEMADO NGAYON SA PAG FINALIZE NG LINE-UP SI BARANGAY GINEBRA MENTOR JONG UICHICO.
SA KANYANG PAGBIBIGAY NG UPDATE SA NBN SPORTS--- SINABI NG 8-TIME CHAMPION COACH NA NAG-UUMPAW SA PLAYERS ANG KANILANG TEAM.
SA NGAYON AY PINATIGIL NA UMANO NIYA ANG TRY-OUTS DAHIL SA LABING WALONG PLAYERS NA ANG NASA KANYANG BAKURAN.
NI-RELEASE NA NG GINEBRA SINA MARK ISIP--- HOMER SE--- CHICO LANETE--- PCHOLO VILLANUEVA--- CHRIS PACANA--- JAY-AR AQUINO--- AT MACKY ESCALONA.
PERO SADYANG MASIKIP PA RIN ANG GINS DAHIL MAYRUON PANG LABING WALONG MANLALARO NA NAG-AAGAW-AGAWAN SA 14-MAN LINE-UP.
GAYUNPAMAN--- NANINIWALA SI UICHICO NA MAHABA PA ANG ORAS UPANG MAPAG-ARALAN NIYA ANG BEST 14.
SAMANTALA--- UUMPISAHAN NAMAN NI UICHICO NA SUKATIN ANG TUNAY NA TIKAS NG KANYANG MGA PLAYERS SA ISNAG SCRIMMAGE KONTRA SANTA LUCIA REALTORS SA XABIER GYM SA SAN JUAN BUKAS NG ALAS DIYES NG UMAGA.
KASABAY NITO--- INAMIN NI UICHICO NA WALA NA SILANG TRADE PANG PAPASUKAN.
ITINANGGI RIN NITO ANG BALITANG KINUKUHA NILA ANG HIGH FLYING REALTOR NA SI KELLY WILLIAMS.
MAGING SI SANTA LUCIA BENCH TACTICIAN BOYET FERNANDEZ AY NATAWA NANG AMING TANUNGIN KUNG ON THE TRADING BLOCK NA BA ANG 2008 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER.
Miller, Alaska test mettle of Coke rookie Ross
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Chris Ross gets his baptism of fire as he locks horns with two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Willie Miller when Coca-Cola battles Alaska on September 25 at the start of preseason action in the 35th season of the Philippine Basketball Association.
Besides Ross, the former Philippine Basketball League MVP and No. 3 pick in the Rookie Draft, the Tigers will be parading 14-year veteran Dennis Espino, who was acquired from Sta. Lucia Realty, in the 6 p.m. encounter at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
Espino was shipped to Coca-Cola by Sta. Lucia Realty in exchange for forward Jason Misolas and a future draft pick.
The Aces have the most intact roster coming into the Philippine Cup, which starts on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum. Alaska finished runner-up to Talk ’N Text in the All-Filipino tourney.
Sister teams Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer, meanwhile, square off on September 26 in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, at 4 p.m.
The Beermen are labeled as heavy favorites in the coming tournament after beefing up their already-talented roster with former Burger King Whopper Arwind Santos and Sta. Lucia playmaker Denok Miranda.
Ex-Ateneo teammates Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez and Paolo Bugia are the only key additions on the Kings roster with main man Mark Caguioa returning after sitting out the last season because of tendinitis.
Also playing on September 26 are Burger King and Purefoods Tender Juicy in Concepcion, Tarlac, also at 4 p.m.
The game could have been a matchup featuring the top two picks in the draft but Japeth Aguilar remains in limbo. Aguilar, the No. 1 overall selection, turned down Burger King’s three-year, P8.7-million offer.
The Giants have No. 2 overall pick Rico Maierhofer, who, according to team manager Rene Pardo, has been impressive in their tune-up games.
Barako Bull and Rain or Shine face off on September 28 at the Arellano University Gym at 2 p.m. On the same day at 4 p.m., Sta. Lucia plays defending All-Filipino champion Talk ‘N Text at the Lyceum University.
The Tropang Texters are trying to become the first team since Great Taste in 1984 and 1985 to defend the All-Filipino title. The team will be coming off a stint in Serbia.
Espino gets a chance to meet his former team as Coke collides with the Realtors on October 1 at the Pasig Catholic School. The game is set at 2:30 p.m.
Santos will also meet his former team Burger King when San Miguel clash with the Whopper on October 2 at the Rizal Technological University Gymnasium at 4 p.m.
San Beda College hosts the encounter between Ginebra and the Energy Boosters on October 3 at 4 p.m.
Two more pre-season matches have been scheduled, featuring Talk ‘N Text and Rain or Shine on September 29 and Alaska versus Purefoods on October 4 but the league is still finalizing the venues.
According to PBA operations chief Rickie Santos, each team is allowed to field a maximum of 18 players in a pre-season game as this also serves as a tryout for those who have yet to sign contracts.
Chris Ross gets his baptism of fire as he locks horns with two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Willie Miller when Coca-Cola battles Alaska on September 25 at the start of preseason action in the 35th season of the Philippine Basketball Association.
Besides Ross, the former Philippine Basketball League MVP and No. 3 pick in the Rookie Draft, the Tigers will be parading 14-year veteran Dennis Espino, who was acquired from Sta. Lucia Realty, in the 6 p.m. encounter at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.
Espino was shipped to Coca-Cola by Sta. Lucia Realty in exchange for forward Jason Misolas and a future draft pick.
The Aces have the most intact roster coming into the Philippine Cup, which starts on October 11 at the Araneta Coliseum. Alaska finished runner-up to Talk ’N Text in the All-Filipino tourney.
Sister teams Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer, meanwhile, square off on September 26 in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, at 4 p.m.
The Beermen are labeled as heavy favorites in the coming tournament after beefing up their already-talented roster with former Burger King Whopper Arwind Santos and Sta. Lucia playmaker Denok Miranda.
Ex-Ateneo teammates Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez and Paolo Bugia are the only key additions on the Kings roster with main man Mark Caguioa returning after sitting out the last season because of tendinitis.
Also playing on September 26 are Burger King and Purefoods Tender Juicy in Concepcion, Tarlac, also at 4 p.m.
The game could have been a matchup featuring the top two picks in the draft but Japeth Aguilar remains in limbo. Aguilar, the No. 1 overall selection, turned down Burger King’s three-year, P8.7-million offer.
The Giants have No. 2 overall pick Rico Maierhofer, who, according to team manager Rene Pardo, has been impressive in their tune-up games.
Barako Bull and Rain or Shine face off on September 28 at the Arellano University Gym at 2 p.m. On the same day at 4 p.m., Sta. Lucia plays defending All-Filipino champion Talk ‘N Text at the Lyceum University.
The Tropang Texters are trying to become the first team since Great Taste in 1984 and 1985 to defend the All-Filipino title. The team will be coming off a stint in Serbia.
Espino gets a chance to meet his former team as Coke collides with the Realtors on October 1 at the Pasig Catholic School. The game is set at 2:30 p.m.
Santos will also meet his former team Burger King when San Miguel clash with the Whopper on October 2 at the Rizal Technological University Gymnasium at 4 p.m.
San Beda College hosts the encounter between Ginebra and the Energy Boosters on October 3 at 4 p.m.
Two more pre-season matches have been scheduled, featuring Talk ‘N Text and Rain or Shine on September 29 and Alaska versus Purefoods on October 4 but the league is still finalizing the venues.
According to PBA operations chief Rickie Santos, each team is allowed to field a maximum of 18 players in a pre-season game as this also serves as a tryout for those who have yet to sign contracts.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Guiao finally ‘nails’ Caidic
source: Tito Talao | mb.com.ph
Burger King coach Yeng Guiao no longer talks much of the one who got away from him recently.
Instead, he speaks more of the one who slipped through the cracks nine years ago when he was still with Red Bull, the one who will be on the bench for him when he coaches a PBA Selection against a visiting NBA Legends squad Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Both Guiao and Allan Caidic could afford to laugh about it now.
“Oh yes, I think we still own the rights to him,” Guiao said Tuesday during practice, recalling that moment in 2000 when expansion Red Bull, fishing for a big one in the dispersal draft, picked Caidic, then the playing-coach of Barangay Ginebra, from the Kings’ secret unprotected list.
“We drafted him and forced him into retirement,” Guiao said, laughing at the thought.
Caidic, who along with Alvin Patrimonio, Ronnie Magsanoc, and Kenneth Duremdes, will join members of the Powerade-Team Pilipinas against NBA greats Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Dominique Wilkins, Vlade Divac and Robert Horry, included his name in the unprotected list apparently to avoid losing one active Ginebra player.
With a gem of an intuition, however, Red Bull and Guiao cast their net and reeled in the biggest catch of all ¬ the king of the PBA’s three-point shooters.
Thrown into quandary, Cadic, who owns the league record in 3-point shot conversions for one game with 15 set in 1989 with Presto Tivoli, opted to hang up his jersey rather than abandon his post with the Kings.
“Oo nga. Napa-aga tuloy pagreretiro natin,” Caidic says, shaking his head but smiling. “Pero okey naman. At least ngayon, nagkaroon ng chance, kahit exhibition game, na makalaro ako sa kanya.”
Guiao says their move back then to acquire Caidic was premised on making him the cornerstone of the Red Bull franchise.
“Of course we would have played him. Why not?” says Guiao. “The reason we drafted him was because we wanted to play him.”
It took nine years, but Guiao is finally getting one of the players he had originally wanted.
“That’s something I was not able to accomplish when we drafted him,” he says. At least now, naka-ensayo ko na rin bilang player ko si Allan.”
And how did Caidic turn out in his first practice with his should-have-been coach?
Not much. Just standard Triggerman fare: 10 three-point shots coming off picks or from anywhere at The Arena in San Juan.
Burger King coach Yeng Guiao no longer talks much of the one who got away from him recently.
Instead, he speaks more of the one who slipped through the cracks nine years ago when he was still with Red Bull, the one who will be on the bench for him when he coaches a PBA Selection against a visiting NBA Legends squad Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Both Guiao and Allan Caidic could afford to laugh about it now.
“Oh yes, I think we still own the rights to him,” Guiao said Tuesday during practice, recalling that moment in 2000 when expansion Red Bull, fishing for a big one in the dispersal draft, picked Caidic, then the playing-coach of Barangay Ginebra, from the Kings’ secret unprotected list.
“We drafted him and forced him into retirement,” Guiao said, laughing at the thought.
Caidic, who along with Alvin Patrimonio, Ronnie Magsanoc, and Kenneth Duremdes, will join members of the Powerade-Team Pilipinas against NBA greats Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Dominique Wilkins, Vlade Divac and Robert Horry, included his name in the unprotected list apparently to avoid losing one active Ginebra player.
With a gem of an intuition, however, Red Bull and Guiao cast their net and reeled in the biggest catch of all ¬ the king of the PBA’s three-point shooters.
Thrown into quandary, Cadic, who owns the league record in 3-point shot conversions for one game with 15 set in 1989 with Presto Tivoli, opted to hang up his jersey rather than abandon his post with the Kings.
“Oo nga. Napa-aga tuloy pagreretiro natin,” Caidic says, shaking his head but smiling. “Pero okey naman. At least ngayon, nagkaroon ng chance, kahit exhibition game, na makalaro ako sa kanya.”
Guiao says their move back then to acquire Caidic was premised on making him the cornerstone of the Red Bull franchise.
“Of course we would have played him. Why not?” says Guiao. “The reason we drafted him was because we wanted to play him.”
It took nine years, but Guiao is finally getting one of the players he had originally wanted.
“That’s something I was not able to accomplish when we drafted him,” he says. At least now, naka-ensayo ko na rin bilang player ko si Allan.”
And how did Caidic turn out in his first practice with his should-have-been coach?
Not much. Just standard Triggerman fare: 10 three-point shots coming off picks or from anywhere at The Arena in San Juan.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
New PBA chair Alvarez wants pro teams to tighten up belts
source: gmanews.tv
Two of the 10 participating teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) have been feeling the economic pinch and newly-installed chairman Lito Alvarez wants the league to implement cost-efficient ways for teams to survive the financial crisis.
“Kailangan maghigpit tayo ni sinturon (We need to tighten our belts) because of the economic crisis," said Alvarez during Tuesday’s PSA sports forum in Manila. “Yung krisis na nararamdaman natin hindi biro-biro yan at hindi lang Pilipinas ang apektado dito (The crisis that we are feeling now is not only felt in the Philippines)."
Recently, teams like Barako Bull and Sta. Lucia made drastic moves of trading away their respective key players to free up some salary space.
Barako Bull was even lent players by Coca-Cola and Talk N Text. The players’ salary will be shouldered by the Tigers and Tropang Texters’ management to spare the Energy Boosters of additional financial burden.
Sta. Lucia has traded two key players the past week – Denok Miranda and team captain Dennis Espino, to free up some space from its salary expenses.
Alvarez said if the matter is formally brought to their attention, then the league will do everything to help the teams weather the storm at least for the Philippine Cup that opens its season on October 11.
“Kaya nga tinawag kaming (That is why we are called an) association, to help each member out," Alvarez said. “Pero kailangan ding mag-take ng cue ang iba pang miyembro para maiwasan ang mga ganu’ng sitwasyon (But we need the help of the other members to avoid this kind of situation)."
The PBA has imposed a maximum salary cap of P32 million, including a P350,000 monthly pay for its stars. The new chair, however, explained the figures could be deceiving because there is other money on the side involved in maintaining a team.
“Sa salaries lang iyon. Hindi pa kasama ang mga bonuses, etcetera (That’s only for the players’ salaries. Bonuses are not yet included)," he said. “Kaya pag pinagsama-sama mo lahat ng gastusin mahina-hina ang P70 million a year (If you add it all up it would cost close to P70 million a year)."
But a source told GMANews.TV that other teams practice paying excessive salaries to some of its players, a fact that has been brought to Alvarez’ attention.
“Parang it makes little sense na pati ‘yung 13th player mo malaki pa rin ang s’weldo. Ang dapat siguro diyan mga up to the eighth player lang ang malaki suweldo (It makes little sense that you’ll 13th player still has a higher salary. It should be only up to the eighth player.)," he said.
Two of the 10 participating teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) have been feeling the economic pinch and newly-installed chairman Lito Alvarez wants the league to implement cost-efficient ways for teams to survive the financial crisis.
“Kailangan maghigpit tayo ni sinturon (We need to tighten our belts) because of the economic crisis," said Alvarez during Tuesday’s PSA sports forum in Manila. “Yung krisis na nararamdaman natin hindi biro-biro yan at hindi lang Pilipinas ang apektado dito (The crisis that we are feeling now is not only felt in the Philippines)."
Recently, teams like Barako Bull and Sta. Lucia made drastic moves of trading away their respective key players to free up some salary space.
Barako Bull was even lent players by Coca-Cola and Talk N Text. The players’ salary will be shouldered by the Tigers and Tropang Texters’ management to spare the Energy Boosters of additional financial burden.
Sta. Lucia has traded two key players the past week – Denok Miranda and team captain Dennis Espino, to free up some space from its salary expenses.
Alvarez said if the matter is formally brought to their attention, then the league will do everything to help the teams weather the storm at least for the Philippine Cup that opens its season on October 11.
“Kaya nga tinawag kaming (That is why we are called an) association, to help each member out," Alvarez said. “Pero kailangan ding mag-take ng cue ang iba pang miyembro para maiwasan ang mga ganu’ng sitwasyon (But we need the help of the other members to avoid this kind of situation)."
The PBA has imposed a maximum salary cap of P32 million, including a P350,000 monthly pay for its stars. The new chair, however, explained the figures could be deceiving because there is other money on the side involved in maintaining a team.
“Sa salaries lang iyon. Hindi pa kasama ang mga bonuses, etcetera (That’s only for the players’ salaries. Bonuses are not yet included)," he said. “Kaya pag pinagsama-sama mo lahat ng gastusin mahina-hina ang P70 million a year (If you add it all up it would cost close to P70 million a year)."
But a source told GMANews.TV that other teams practice paying excessive salaries to some of its players, a fact that has been brought to Alvarez’ attention.
“Parang it makes little sense na pati ‘yung 13th player mo malaki pa rin ang s’weldo. Ang dapat siguro diyan mga up to the eighth player lang ang malaki suweldo (It makes little sense that you’ll 13th player still has a higher salary. It should be only up to the eighth player.)," he said.
Japeth must settle Burger issue first
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
Smart Gilas will not sign up Japeth Aguilar unless the top pick’s problem with Burger King in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is settled.
Burger King top official Lito Alvarez told The STAR he had this commitment from no less than Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) in a recent talk.
“MVP was surprised with what happened. He’s sad because the PBA is a very active supporter of the SBP. He promised to help. The objective is for Japeth to honor his commitment with the PBA,” said Alvarez.
“Admittedly, it’s easier said than done. But the positive development is that many have committed to help resolve the problem,” Alvarez said.
In a recent announcement, Aguilar decided to play for the Smart Gilas developmental team, turning his back on Burger King which made him No. 1 overall in the recent PBA Rookie Draft. He is now in the United States.
“It seems we have to deal not only with Japeth but with his family. We’ll not make any move yet. We’ll see what happens. It’s ceasefire,” said Alvarez.
Neither the PBA Commissioner’s Office is making any move since Burger King has yet to make a formal complaint.
Aguilar is likely to face a severe sanction in the league should he push through with his plan not to honor his commitment with Burger King.
But Smart Gilas assured Burger King that it would not entertain Aguilar while his problem with the PBA ballclub remains unresolved and instead advise the player to settle the issue with the team.
“I understand (SBP executive director) Noli Eala has been ordered to help resolve the problem,” said Alvarez.
Smart Gilas, under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman, is embarking on a long-term program aimed at qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics.
Rey Guevarra, RJ Jazul, Chris Tiu, Mac Baracael, JV Casio, Mark Barroca are among those who have signed up with the squad which is looking to have former LA Laker CJ Giles as naturalized player.
They will play as a guest team in the coming PBA all-Filipino tourney.
Smart Gilas will not sign up Japeth Aguilar unless the top pick’s problem with Burger King in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is settled.
Burger King top official Lito Alvarez told The STAR he had this commitment from no less than Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) in a recent talk.
“MVP was surprised with what happened. He’s sad because the PBA is a very active supporter of the SBP. He promised to help. The objective is for Japeth to honor his commitment with the PBA,” said Alvarez.
“Admittedly, it’s easier said than done. But the positive development is that many have committed to help resolve the problem,” Alvarez said.
In a recent announcement, Aguilar decided to play for the Smart Gilas developmental team, turning his back on Burger King which made him No. 1 overall in the recent PBA Rookie Draft. He is now in the United States.
“It seems we have to deal not only with Japeth but with his family. We’ll not make any move yet. We’ll see what happens. It’s ceasefire,” said Alvarez.
Neither the PBA Commissioner’s Office is making any move since Burger King has yet to make a formal complaint.
Aguilar is likely to face a severe sanction in the league should he push through with his plan not to honor his commitment with Burger King.
But Smart Gilas assured Burger King that it would not entertain Aguilar while his problem with the PBA ballclub remains unresolved and instead advise the player to settle the issue with the team.
“I understand (SBP executive director) Noli Eala has been ordered to help resolve the problem,” said Alvarez.
Smart Gilas, under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman, is embarking on a long-term program aimed at qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics.
Rey Guevarra, RJ Jazul, Chris Tiu, Mac Baracael, JV Casio, Mark Barroca are among those who have signed up with the squad which is looking to have former LA Laker CJ Giles as naturalized player.
They will play as a guest team in the coming PBA all-Filipino tourney.
Monday, September 7, 2009
All the right moves
Of all the moves made by teams in the Philippine Basketball Association in the off-season, I like what coach Ryan Gregorio and the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants have done.
First, the Giants acquired wiry Rico Maierhofer as the no. 2 overall pick and talented Chris Timberlake as no. 7 overall pick in the past PBA Draft. Then, they reacquired big man Marc Pingris and point guard Paul Artadi. Finally, they traded for Rafi Reavis in exchange for center Rico Villanueva.
The addition of Maierhofer and Timberlake makes the Giants younger and more athletic. The return of Artadi not only gives the Giants the fastest point guard with the ball, but more importantly gives them the point guard, who can deliver the ball and bring out the best from former Most Valuable Player James Yap.
In a telephone interview yesterday, Gregorio said his most important appointment this off-season was a lunch meeting with Artadi and Pingris.
"I sat down with Paul and Mark and told them that the reason they are back is because I made a mistake in breaking up the core of our 2005-06 Philippine Cup champion team. I am admitting that mistake and now they are back," said Gregorio.
Gregorio said he has the team that he wants. It is a balanced roster with go-to players and complementary players willing to sacrifice and do what is needed to win.
"My biggest concern now is how to create chemistry within our group," said Greogrio. "I felt that in the last few conferences, we had the talent but not the right chemistry. So that is what we have been working on in the pre-season. We want the players to like playing with each other."
Does this mean a PBA championship for Purefoods? Gregorio is not looking ahead that far. He said that a Final Four or a berth in the semifinals is their immediate goal and then they'll take it from there.
***
The team to beat this coming PBA conference is undoubtedly Fiesta Cup champion San Miguel Beer. Coach Siot Tanquingcen says that by now he is used to the pressure and high expectations that come with coaching a star-studded team like San Miguel Beer.
"You can't fault people for thinking that we should automatically win the title. I have very talented players. But talent does not necessarily win you titles. There are a lot of talented teams which have never won PBA championships. We still had to work harder than everyone else before we finally won it," said Tanquingcen.
The Beermen have become even stronger, at least on paper, with the addition of Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda in the off-season. This means heightened expectations from everyone from the fans to the team management.
"It was a good feeling to finally win a championship for San Miguel Beer," said Tanquingcen. "But, I wouldn't say okay na. Kasi sa basketball you're only as good as your last game. It's never finished. After we won the Fiesta Cup they congratulated us. Then sabi nila: Kailangan manalo kayo ng All-Filipino." Reuel Vidal - Manila Standard Today
First, the Giants acquired wiry Rico Maierhofer as the no. 2 overall pick and talented Chris Timberlake as no. 7 overall pick in the past PBA Draft. Then, they reacquired big man Marc Pingris and point guard Paul Artadi. Finally, they traded for Rafi Reavis in exchange for center Rico Villanueva.
The addition of Maierhofer and Timberlake makes the Giants younger and more athletic. The return of Artadi not only gives the Giants the fastest point guard with the ball, but more importantly gives them the point guard, who can deliver the ball and bring out the best from former Most Valuable Player James Yap.
In a telephone interview yesterday, Gregorio said his most important appointment this off-season was a lunch meeting with Artadi and Pingris.
"I sat down with Paul and Mark and told them that the reason they are back is because I made a mistake in breaking up the core of our 2005-06 Philippine Cup champion team. I am admitting that mistake and now they are back," said Gregorio.
Gregorio said he has the team that he wants. It is a balanced roster with go-to players and complementary players willing to sacrifice and do what is needed to win.
"My biggest concern now is how to create chemistry within our group," said Greogrio. "I felt that in the last few conferences, we had the talent but not the right chemistry. So that is what we have been working on in the pre-season. We want the players to like playing with each other."
Does this mean a PBA championship for Purefoods? Gregorio is not looking ahead that far. He said that a Final Four or a berth in the semifinals is their immediate goal and then they'll take it from there.
***
The team to beat this coming PBA conference is undoubtedly Fiesta Cup champion San Miguel Beer. Coach Siot Tanquingcen says that by now he is used to the pressure and high expectations that come with coaching a star-studded team like San Miguel Beer.
"You can't fault people for thinking that we should automatically win the title. I have very talented players. But talent does not necessarily win you titles. There are a lot of talented teams which have never won PBA championships. We still had to work harder than everyone else before we finally won it," said Tanquingcen.
The Beermen have become even stronger, at least on paper, with the addition of Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda in the off-season. This means heightened expectations from everyone from the fans to the team management.
"It was a good feeling to finally win a championship for San Miguel Beer," said Tanquingcen. "But, I wouldn't say okay na. Kasi sa basketball you're only as good as your last game. It's never finished. After we won the Fiesta Cup they congratulated us. Then sabi nila: Kailangan manalo kayo ng All-Filipino." Reuel Vidal - Manila Standard Today
Japeth’s woes piling up
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
The group of player agent Dondon Monteverde is considering suing Japeth Aguilar for breach and negligence of obligated agreements and contract.
Edgar Tan, Monteverde’s close associate, said they are now seriously plotting a court suit after Aguilar refused to honor the contract he and his mother, Josie, signed with them.
Monteverde’s group claimed it has the right to negotiate business deals for Aguilar, who he said signed a contract with the Monteverde group when he was still playing for Ateneo in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
The 22-year-old Aguilar is now being represented in his business deals by sports columnist Ronnie Nathanielsz.
Aguilar applied for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) rookie draft, was picked No. 1, but later turned down Burger King’s offer. He said he wants to play for flag and country and has decided to join the Smart Gilas national developmental team of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
“Knowing Dondon, hindi niya palalampasin ito. We’re just waiting for the advice of our lawyers kasi in the past week, ang grupo lang nila Japeth ang nagsasalita sa media,” said Tan.
“We are now preparing all the documents that will prove he really signed a contract with us,” he added.
Tan also said they are planning to include Nathanielsz in their charges for “misrepresentation of an under-contract talent.” Nathanielsz, however, claimed in interviews he is merely an adviser of Aguilar.
Aguilar is vacationing in the US but his case remains a hot item, with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) board putting him on top of the agenda of their upcoming board meeting.
The PBA board is now chaired by Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez.
Tan said his group has sought a meeting with Aguilar since he returned from the Tianjin (China) Fiba-Asia Men’s Championship, but was turned down.
The former Western Kentucky University reserve refused to sign a three-year, P8.7-million offer from Burger King.
“Our plan really for Japeth is to have him enter a contract that is similar to that of [Portland Trail Blazer star] Yao Ming. He will still play in the PBA but if the country needs him in international tournaments, then he’ll be also allowed to play,” said Tan.
The group of player agent Dondon Monteverde is considering suing Japeth Aguilar for breach and negligence of obligated agreements and contract.
Edgar Tan, Monteverde’s close associate, said they are now seriously plotting a court suit after Aguilar refused to honor the contract he and his mother, Josie, signed with them.
Monteverde’s group claimed it has the right to negotiate business deals for Aguilar, who he said signed a contract with the Monteverde group when he was still playing for Ateneo in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
The 22-year-old Aguilar is now being represented in his business deals by sports columnist Ronnie Nathanielsz.
Aguilar applied for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) rookie draft, was picked No. 1, but later turned down Burger King’s offer. He said he wants to play for flag and country and has decided to join the Smart Gilas national developmental team of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
“Knowing Dondon, hindi niya palalampasin ito. We’re just waiting for the advice of our lawyers kasi in the past week, ang grupo lang nila Japeth ang nagsasalita sa media,” said Tan.
“We are now preparing all the documents that will prove he really signed a contract with us,” he added.
Tan also said they are planning to include Nathanielsz in their charges for “misrepresentation of an under-contract talent.” Nathanielsz, however, claimed in interviews he is merely an adviser of Aguilar.
Aguilar is vacationing in the US but his case remains a hot item, with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) board putting him on top of the agenda of their upcoming board meeting.
The PBA board is now chaired by Burger King team manager Lito Alvarez.
Tan said his group has sought a meeting with Aguilar since he returned from the Tianjin (China) Fiba-Asia Men’s Championship, but was turned down.
The former Western Kentucky University reserve refused to sign a three-year, P8.7-million offer from Burger King.
“Our plan really for Japeth is to have him enter a contract that is similar to that of [Portland Trail Blazer star] Yao Ming. He will still play in the PBA but if the country needs him in international tournaments, then he’ll be also allowed to play,” said Tan.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
No more turning back for Japeth
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Perhaps the Japeth Aguilar camp has realized the 22-year-old, six-foot-10 player’s refusal to sign up with Burger King in favor of a stint in the national team leaned more on the negative than on the positive.
On Wednesday morning Peter Aguilar, the ex-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) player and national team member, came out in public and told a radio program via overseas phone call that money was never an the issue.
And the elder Aguilar hinted their camp would no longer explore the possibility about his son reversing his decision and eventually signing up with Burger King.
“Money is not involved here,” Aguilar, who played five seasons in the PBA, told dzSR Sports Radio. “Hindi naman kami naghihirap dito [United States]. Kung pera lang, pareho lang naman ng offer. Gusto lang talaga maglaro ni Japeth sa national team.”
The young Aguilar has been on the hot seat since the BusinessMirror broke the news that he is not interested about a PBA career but in a stint with the national team under the Smart Gilas squad.
Aguilar was picked No. 1 in the annual draft last month by Burger King. He was offered a maximum three-year deal worth P8.7 million by Burger King.
Both Lito Alvarez, Burger King’s representative to the PBA board and incoming league chairman, and head coach Yeng Guiao fumed at Aguilar’s decision.
Even commissioner Sonny Barrios implied his dismay over Aguilar and made statements that bordered on propriety in the youngster making sound decisions and for him to speak for himself and not through his agent or manager.
Aguilar, according to Barrios, was offered the same package by Smart Gilas, which, interestingly, is bankrolled by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan, a coowner of Burger King.
There are unconfirmed reports though that Aguilar is bound to receive more, perhaps in perks, from Smart Gilas, which is honing for the 2011 Asian championship where the winner will get a slot in the 2012 London Olympics. Aguilar, however, denied this.
In the radio interview, the older Aguilar said his son has decided to stick it out with the national team while he was still in Tianjin where he was sparingly used against the stronger teams.
“Noong nasa China siya, sinabihan niya ako na gusto niya ulit maglaro sa national team,” said Peter Aguilar. “Sabi ko sa kanya, ikaw magde-desisyon kung ano talaga ang gusto mong gawin.”
Ironically, the young Aguilar announced before Tianjin that he was interested in a PBA career. He, too, submitted his application for the draft, reportedly through his agent Ronnie Nathanielsz.
Before the draft, he told media he was feeling wary about him being the No. 1 pick. He attended the draft and was obviously beaming when he was picked No. 1.
Asked if his son would ever change his mind, Aguilar was almost blunt in saying it is no longer possible at this point.
“Sa totoo lang, hindi na siguro. Naiintindihan ko na masama ang loob nila kay Japeth pero talagang sa national team muna gusto maglaro ni Japeth ngayon,” he said.
The young Aguilar is currently in the United States for a two-week vacation.
Perhaps the Japeth Aguilar camp has realized the 22-year-old, six-foot-10 player’s refusal to sign up with Burger King in favor of a stint in the national team leaned more on the negative than on the positive.
On Wednesday morning Peter Aguilar, the ex-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) player and national team member, came out in public and told a radio program via overseas phone call that money was never an the issue.
And the elder Aguilar hinted their camp would no longer explore the possibility about his son reversing his decision and eventually signing up with Burger King.
“Money is not involved here,” Aguilar, who played five seasons in the PBA, told dzSR Sports Radio. “Hindi naman kami naghihirap dito [United States]. Kung pera lang, pareho lang naman ng offer. Gusto lang talaga maglaro ni Japeth sa national team.”
The young Aguilar has been on the hot seat since the BusinessMirror broke the news that he is not interested about a PBA career but in a stint with the national team under the Smart Gilas squad.
Aguilar was picked No. 1 in the annual draft last month by Burger King. He was offered a maximum three-year deal worth P8.7 million by Burger King.
Both Lito Alvarez, Burger King’s representative to the PBA board and incoming league chairman, and head coach Yeng Guiao fumed at Aguilar’s decision.
Even commissioner Sonny Barrios implied his dismay over Aguilar and made statements that bordered on propriety in the youngster making sound decisions and for him to speak for himself and not through his agent or manager.
Aguilar, according to Barrios, was offered the same package by Smart Gilas, which, interestingly, is bankrolled by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan, a coowner of Burger King.
There are unconfirmed reports though that Aguilar is bound to receive more, perhaps in perks, from Smart Gilas, which is honing for the 2011 Asian championship where the winner will get a slot in the 2012 London Olympics. Aguilar, however, denied this.
In the radio interview, the older Aguilar said his son has decided to stick it out with the national team while he was still in Tianjin where he was sparingly used against the stronger teams.
“Noong nasa China siya, sinabihan niya ako na gusto niya ulit maglaro sa national team,” said Peter Aguilar. “Sabi ko sa kanya, ikaw magde-desisyon kung ano talaga ang gusto mong gawin.”
Ironically, the young Aguilar announced before Tianjin that he was interested in a PBA career. He, too, submitted his application for the draft, reportedly through his agent Ronnie Nathanielsz.
Before the draft, he told media he was feeling wary about him being the No. 1 pick. He attended the draft and was obviously beaming when he was picked No. 1.
Asked if his son would ever change his mind, Aguilar was almost blunt in saying it is no longer possible at this point.
“Sa totoo lang, hindi na siguro. Naiintindihan ko na masama ang loob nila kay Japeth pero talagang sa national team muna gusto maglaro ni Japeth ngayon,” he said.
The young Aguilar is currently in the United States for a two-week vacation.
Miranda, Santos reunite at San Miguel
source: gmanews.tv
After Arwind Santos, San Miguel tabbed another former Far Eastern University King Tamaraw in the off-season.
Point guard Dennis Miranda was dealt by Sta. Lucia to the Beermen Tuesday night to clear salary cap space. Sta. Lucia will get a future pick in return.
Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez confirmed the trade, but made it clear that there was no problem between the 6-foot-1 Miranda and the team he helped steer to the Philippine Cup championship in 2008.
“It’s more on the cap space. We have no issue against Denok. Actually, we we’re saddened by his departure dahil malaking tulong siya sa amin especially when we won the Philippine Cup last year. But wala kaming magagawa because it was a management decision," said Fernandez.
In San Miguel, Miranda will be reunited with the 6-foot-4 Santos, his former FEU teammate with whom he won multiple championships during their UAAP days.
With the arrival of Miranda, the Beermen has solidified their backcourt that already has the ever steady Olsen Racela, comebacking Mike Cortez and revelation Jonas Villanueva, himself a former FEU stalwart.
After Arwind Santos, San Miguel tabbed another former Far Eastern University King Tamaraw in the off-season.
Point guard Dennis Miranda was dealt by Sta. Lucia to the Beermen Tuesday night to clear salary cap space. Sta. Lucia will get a future pick in return.
Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez confirmed the trade, but made it clear that there was no problem between the 6-foot-1 Miranda and the team he helped steer to the Philippine Cup championship in 2008.
“It’s more on the cap space. We have no issue against Denok. Actually, we we’re saddened by his departure dahil malaking tulong siya sa amin especially when we won the Philippine Cup last year. But wala kaming magagawa because it was a management decision," said Fernandez.
In San Miguel, Miranda will be reunited with the 6-foot-4 Santos, his former FEU teammate with whom he won multiple championships during their UAAP days.
With the arrival of Miranda, the Beermen has solidified their backcourt that already has the ever steady Olsen Racela, comebacking Mike Cortez and revelation Jonas Villanueva, himself a former FEU stalwart.
Espino now a Tiger
Dennis Espino was known as a Tiger during his playing years in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines while playing for University of Santo Tomas.
After 14 seasons playing as a Sta. Lucia Realtor, Espino is expected to wind up as the newest Tiger of Coca-Cola.
Coca-Cola assistant coach Bo Perasol confirmed to Standard Today that they have already agreed with the Realtors in principle regarding the transfer of one of the best center/forwards the league has ever produced.
"Konting ayos na lang," said Perasol in a telephone interview. "Wala pa si Dennis sa Manila, but we have already agreed in principle with Sta. Lucia."
Espino was dealt to the Tigers in exchange for Jason Misolas and a future first-round pick.
The former national team standout's entry will certainly make the Coca-Cola frontline more formidable as he will team up with fellow veteran Asi Taulava, promising third-year pro Ken Bono and hardworking forward Larry Rodriguez.
By adding another experienced player into their lineup, Perasol knows they have to work double time on the conditioning process of their frontliners.
"Nasa sa kanila naman 'yan on how they can live up to our team's new philosophy, which is to run more," said Perasol. "Kailangan talagang magpa-kundisyon sila. Our idea is to have both Asi and Dennis together at the same time dahil sayang naman 'yung talent nila kung magpapalitan lang sila." Rey Joble - Manila Standard Today
After 14 seasons playing as a Sta. Lucia Realtor, Espino is expected to wind up as the newest Tiger of Coca-Cola.
Coca-Cola assistant coach Bo Perasol confirmed to Standard Today that they have already agreed with the Realtors in principle regarding the transfer of one of the best center/forwards the league has ever produced.
"Konting ayos na lang," said Perasol in a telephone interview. "Wala pa si Dennis sa Manila, but we have already agreed in principle with Sta. Lucia."
Espino was dealt to the Tigers in exchange for Jason Misolas and a future first-round pick.
The former national team standout's entry will certainly make the Coca-Cola frontline more formidable as he will team up with fellow veteran Asi Taulava, promising third-year pro Ken Bono and hardworking forward Larry Rodriguez.
By adding another experienced player into their lineup, Perasol knows they have to work double time on the conditioning process of their frontliners.
"Nasa sa kanila naman 'yan on how they can live up to our team's new philosophy, which is to run more," said Perasol. "Kailangan talagang magpa-kundisyon sila. Our idea is to have both Asi and Dennis together at the same time dahil sayang naman 'yung talent nila kung magpapalitan lang sila." Rey Joble - Manila Standard Today
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
LIFE GOES ON FOR WHOPPERS, COKE & BARAKO BULL RETOOL
Tue, 09/01/2009 - 17:53 — junior (www.pba.ph)
Though still hoping for the resolution of the Japeth Aguilar controversy soon, Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said he's not ready to wait forever as the Whoppers have to move on with or without the wayward player.
Guiao said they have to fix things specially as the team has traded Ken Bono to Coca-Cola.
"Okay pa naman kami. We have Carlo Sharma, Beau Belga and JR Quinahan as frontliners. But we have to look for a replacement kung talagang hindi na babalik si Japeth," said Guiao.
"In four days kung walang mangyayari, dapat kaming kumuha nang iba to fill up the slot. The season is about to start," Guiao added.
Coca-Cola has beefed up its own frontcourt in acquiring Bono through a three-way trade deal involving Barako Bull.
The Energy Boosters gave up a future draft pick for Bono whom they later dealt to the Tigers for point guard Aries Dimaunahan and forward MC Caceres.
In a continuing rebuilding process, Barako Bull also acquired Yousif Aljamal and Rob Reyes from Talk n Text.
BK top honcho Lito Alvarez plans to talk directly to Japeth's father Peter even as the player agent, Ronnie Nathanielsz, insists the Aguilars have made a decision for Japeth to dump Burger King for Smart Gilas.
Nathanielsz has reportedly said that Peter closed their door on BK after a phone talk with Guiao.
"I just explained everything and the possible consequences of their action to Peter. He told me 'sige kakausapin ko sila (I will talk to them).' My understanding is that he will explain things to Japeth and his manager," said Guiao.
"I believe I still have an open communication line with them (the Chicago-based parents of Japeth). But I have explained everything and I think it's enough. Baka makulitan sa akin," Guiao added.
Guiao said he had a phone talk with Peter the day after Japeth and Nathanielsz informed the BK people of their decision not to sign up with the team that made the player the top pick in the most recent PBA Annual Draft.
Japeth has reportedly left for the US. Before leaving, he had a lunch with a small group of sportswriters reiterating his decision to join the Smart Gilas developmental team. (NC)
Though still hoping for the resolution of the Japeth Aguilar controversy soon, Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said he's not ready to wait forever as the Whoppers have to move on with or without the wayward player.
Guiao said they have to fix things specially as the team has traded Ken Bono to Coca-Cola.
"Okay pa naman kami. We have Carlo Sharma, Beau Belga and JR Quinahan as frontliners. But we have to look for a replacement kung talagang hindi na babalik si Japeth," said Guiao.
"In four days kung walang mangyayari, dapat kaming kumuha nang iba to fill up the slot. The season is about to start," Guiao added.
Coca-Cola has beefed up its own frontcourt in acquiring Bono through a three-way trade deal involving Barako Bull.
The Energy Boosters gave up a future draft pick for Bono whom they later dealt to the Tigers for point guard Aries Dimaunahan and forward MC Caceres.
In a continuing rebuilding process, Barako Bull also acquired Yousif Aljamal and Rob Reyes from Talk n Text.
BK top honcho Lito Alvarez plans to talk directly to Japeth's father Peter even as the player agent, Ronnie Nathanielsz, insists the Aguilars have made a decision for Japeth to dump Burger King for Smart Gilas.
Nathanielsz has reportedly said that Peter closed their door on BK after a phone talk with Guiao.
"I just explained everything and the possible consequences of their action to Peter. He told me 'sige kakausapin ko sila (I will talk to them).' My understanding is that he will explain things to Japeth and his manager," said Guiao.
"I believe I still have an open communication line with them (the Chicago-based parents of Japeth). But I have explained everything and I think it's enough. Baka makulitan sa akin," Guiao added.
Guiao said he had a phone talk with Peter the day after Japeth and Nathanielsz informed the BK people of their decision not to sign up with the team that made the player the top pick in the most recent PBA Annual Draft.
Japeth has reportedly left for the US. Before leaving, he had a lunch with a small group of sportswriters reiterating his decision to join the Smart Gilas developmental team. (NC)
Barrios wants 1-on-1 dialogue with Japeth
In order to have a clearer picture of the issue, PBA Commissioner Renauld "Sonny" Barrios wants to have another personal talk with Japeth Aguilar.
Barrios met with the 6-foot-10 Aguilar last week, but he said it was Manila Standard/Today sports columnist Ronnie Nathanielz, Aguilar's manager, who did most of the talking and explaining on why he had a sudden change of heart.
By joining Smart Gilas RP team, Aguilar turned down a three-year offer of Burger King approximately worth P8.7 million after taking him as the top overall pick in the previous PBA Rookie Draft.
"Up to this time, I would like to talk to him (Aguilar) man-to-man to get his personal views," Barrios said in Tuesday's PSA Forum at the Shakey's Restaurant in U.N. Ave., Manila. "I would (also) love to talk to Peter (Japeth's father)."
The commissioner said he is puzzled by the pronouncement of Aguilar's camp that somehow, it was a requirement for him to join the PBA Rookie Draft to be able to join the Powerade-Team Pilipinas.
According to Barrios, Aguilar was included to the national team that placed eighth overall in the FIBA-Asia Championship in Tianjin, China even before he applied for the Draft.
"I didn't sale pitch the PBA to Japeth," Barrios said. Waylon Galvez - Manila Bulletin
Barrios met with the 6-foot-10 Aguilar last week, but he said it was Manila Standard/Today sports columnist Ronnie Nathanielz, Aguilar's manager, who did most of the talking and explaining on why he had a sudden change of heart.
By joining Smart Gilas RP team, Aguilar turned down a three-year offer of Burger King approximately worth P8.7 million after taking him as the top overall pick in the previous PBA Rookie Draft.
"Up to this time, I would like to talk to him (Aguilar) man-to-man to get his personal views," Barrios said in Tuesday's PSA Forum at the Shakey's Restaurant in U.N. Ave., Manila. "I would (also) love to talk to Peter (Japeth's father)."
The commissioner said he is puzzled by the pronouncement of Aguilar's camp that somehow, it was a requirement for him to join the PBA Rookie Draft to be able to join the Powerade-Team Pilipinas.
According to Barrios, Aguilar was included to the national team that placed eighth overall in the FIBA-Asia Championship in Tianjin, China even before he applied for the Draft.
"I didn't sale pitch the PBA to Japeth," Barrios said. Waylon Galvez - Manila Bulletin
Coke lends 2 Tigers to Bulls
In an effort to help a Philippine Basketball Association team currently facing financial problems, Coca-Cola board representative JB Baylon disclosed that the Tigers will lend two of its players to the Barako Bull and even pay their salaries.
The players are Aries Dimaunahan and Manuel Caceres.
"Since Cola-Cola has an excess of players, who will be benched anyway, we gave them to Red Bull. But since they are still under contract, we will be paying their salaries until the end of their contract in July next year, which in effect, is one season," Baylon told www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports.
The Coca-Cola governor and team manager said Dimaunahan played for Barako Bulls' coach Leo Isaac in the past, while Caceres is a good young man, who didn't get the playing time he deserved.
"I think they will be able to get their playing time with Barako Bulls," said Baylon, who conceded the move would be a considerable savings for the Barako Bull franchise.
"While we pay your salary, you better play as Barako Bulls, especially when you're playing against us because you have to demonstrate that if the Barako Bulls are bought by a new owner, you have to demonstrate that you are worth being a player there," said the Coke official. Ronnie Nathanielsz - Manila Standard Today
The players are Aries Dimaunahan and Manuel Caceres.
"Since Cola-Cola has an excess of players, who will be benched anyway, we gave them to Red Bull. But since they are still under contract, we will be paying their salaries until the end of their contract in July next year, which in effect, is one season," Baylon told www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports.
The Coca-Cola governor and team manager said Dimaunahan played for Barako Bulls' coach Leo Isaac in the past, while Caceres is a good young man, who didn't get the playing time he deserved.
"I think they will be able to get their playing time with Barako Bulls," said Baylon, who conceded the move would be a considerable savings for the Barako Bull franchise.
"While we pay your salary, you better play as Barako Bulls, especially when you're playing against us because you have to demonstrate that if the Barako Bulls are bought by a new owner, you have to demonstrate that you are worth being a player there," said the Coke official. Ronnie Nathanielsz - Manila Standard Today
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