source: gmanews.tv
In the end, Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) commissioner Sonny Barrios took into account the interest of the country in coming up with a crucial decision concerning the RP-Smart Gilas team’s participation in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup.
Given two options by the Board, Barrios decided to alter instead the arrangement of the nationals’ participation in the season-opening meet, rendering all their games – past and future – as no-bearing, instead of not allowing big man CJ Giles to see action in the team’s remaining games.
“We recognize that CJ Giles is a very vital part of the national team, the reason why he is considered as a candidate for naturalization for Filipino citizen.
(Photo source: PBA.ph)
“He is seen as the 'good big man' the country sorely lacks to be able to compete with the powerhouse teams in Asia today. It will not help the team’s cause if Giles is not allowed to play with the team," Barrios explained.
The commissioner bared the new set-up Thursday after hearing complaints from governors over the unpredictable playing minutes of the 6-foot-11Giles, the observations from a former national coach and the remarks from players alike.
Giles, the man being groomed for naturalization to backstop the RP team in its quest to qualify for the London Olympics in 2012, saw action for merely five minutes on Oct. 21 in Smart Gilas’ last game against Talk ‘N Text, which romped off with a lopsided 103-70 victory.
Governors immediately questioned the move by coach Rajko Toroman the following day, wondering why the Serbian mentor benched his intimidating inside force against the Tropang Texters, whose owner, Manny V. Pangilinan, is also the president of the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas, the governing body for amateur basketball that bankrolls the RP Team.
Barrios likewise took into account the observation of Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, the national coach when the PBA competed in the 2002 Busan Asian Games.
Following Ginebra’s 100-72 win over Smart Gilas, Uichico was quoted as saying: “It is unfortunate that the PBA teams play the national team always looking to win."
And the best way to help the RP team, according to Uichico, is to "take away the ‘we have to win attitude’ and give the PBA teams the opportunity to simulate the patterns of the clubs that RP Team will be facing in international tournaments."
The PBA also arrived at a common thought that since games before by Smart Gilas had effect on the win-loss standings of the PBA teams, the level of intensity against the Nationals have been at a level that results in physicality and ruggedness.
That was the clear case when the Nationals met Burger King last Oct. 16, the unforgettable match-up that led to the infamous mauling by Wynne Arboleda of a court-side fan – Alain Katrigbac - and the four flagrant-one fouls the Whopper committed in the first half.
Arboleda was subsequently banned for the rest of the season without pay and is now facing charges of physical injuries.
“Some players have pointed out that the different treatment almost always means a difference in the level of intensity that may give rise to physical play and unwanted incidents," Barrios said.
By this new decision, the games won by Talk ‘N Text, Burger King and Ginebra over the Nationals have been nullified. The Texters and the Gin Kings now have similar 2-1 (win-loss) records with the Whopper falling to 1-2.
“We are convinced that it is in everyone’s best interest if both teams go into the game with the same mindset that the game has no bearing. Both Smart Gilas and thePBA opposing team, and their players, will thus be on equal footing as far as their outlook and approach of the game are concerned, " Barrios said.
Smart Gilas, which has never yet won a game, next sees action on Nov. 6 against the Coca-Cola Tigers.
Barrios dispelled concerns by the SBP that the PBA teams would not take the games seriously now that they have no bearing.
“Just as you assured us that Smart Gilas will be prepared to play every game competitively and passionately, we also guarantee that ourPBA teams will give the national teams the competition they need to toughen up for the bigger hardcourt wars ahead, " he said.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Pennisi provides spark as San Miguel drubs Talk 'N Text
source: gmanews.tv
Mick Pennisi provided the spark and nailed the insurance basket in San Miguel Beer’s 100-90 drubbing of Talk `N Text Wednesday night in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup.
The 6-foot-10 many-time national team member scored 15 points, including nine in the opening half when he led the Beermen zoom to a as many as a 25-point lead.
And just as the Tropang Texters rallied back in the stretch, Pennisi was again there to bail his team out of trouble, draining a dagger three-pointer to pushSan Miguel on safer grounds (98-90) with 42 seconds remaining in the main game of a weekday doubleheader at the Big Dome.
“We still have a lot of work to do," admitted the San Miguel center. “But we didn’t lose our composure there. We just stuck to the game plan."
The Beermen now even their record at 2-2 after losing their first two games in the All-Filipino meet.
The Tropang Texters suffered their first loss after three straight wins, relegating them to a tie for second place along with Barangay Ginebra. Their loss also left idle Alaska as the only unbeaten team in the tournament at 4-0.
Arwind Santos and Dondon Hontiveros had 17 each to pace the Beermen, who enjoyed a 47-22 spread midway in the second period behind Pennisi’s hot hands.
But the Texters wouldn’t easily go down without a fight in a match pitting the two reigning conference champions in the league.
With Jason Castro and Mack Cardona leading the way, Talk ‘N Text made its way back in the final minutes of the game coming to as close as 93-89 on a completed steal by Castro.
But Cardona could only hit one of three free throws given him when he was hacked by Hontiveros while attempting from three-point range, 95-90, before Pennisi nailed the big trey that put the fight out of the Tropang Texters.
Back-to-back misses from three-point range by Ranidel de Ocampo and Jimmy Alapag in the final 22 seconds doomed Talk `N Text for good.
Alapag showed the way for Talk ‘N Text with 22 points, followed by Castro (20) and Cardona (16).
San Miguel 100 - Santos 17, Hontiveros 17, Pennisi 15, Seigle 11, Custodio 9, Cortez 9, Villanueva 7, Pena 6, Tugade 5, Miranda 2, Racela 2, Eman 0.
Talk N' Text 90 - Alapag 22, Castro 20, Cardona 16, Peek 13, De Ocampo Y. 8, De Ocampo R. 4, Carey 4, Belasco 2, Dillinger 1, Ritualo 0.
Quarter scores: 26-14, 55-38, 77-61, 100-90.
** Above Photo source: PBA.ph
Mick Pennisi provided the spark and nailed the insurance basket in San Miguel Beer’s 100-90 drubbing of Talk `N Text Wednesday night in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup.
The 6-foot-10 many-time national team member scored 15 points, including nine in the opening half when he led the Beermen zoom to a as many as a 25-point lead.
And just as the Tropang Texters rallied back in the stretch, Pennisi was again there to bail his team out of trouble, draining a dagger three-pointer to pushSan Miguel on safer grounds (98-90) with 42 seconds remaining in the main game of a weekday doubleheader at the Big Dome.
“We still have a lot of work to do," admitted the San Miguel center. “But we didn’t lose our composure there. We just stuck to the game plan."
The Beermen now even their record at 2-2 after losing their first two games in the All-Filipino meet.
The Tropang Texters suffered their first loss after three straight wins, relegating them to a tie for second place along with Barangay Ginebra. Their loss also left idle Alaska as the only unbeaten team in the tournament at 4-0.
Arwind Santos and Dondon Hontiveros had 17 each to pace the Beermen, who enjoyed a 47-22 spread midway in the second period behind Pennisi’s hot hands.
But the Texters wouldn’t easily go down without a fight in a match pitting the two reigning conference champions in the league.
With Jason Castro and Mack Cardona leading the way, Talk ‘N Text made its way back in the final minutes of the game coming to as close as 93-89 on a completed steal by Castro.
But Cardona could only hit one of three free throws given him when he was hacked by Hontiveros while attempting from three-point range, 95-90, before Pennisi nailed the big trey that put the fight out of the Tropang Texters.
Back-to-back misses from three-point range by Ranidel de Ocampo and Jimmy Alapag in the final 22 seconds doomed Talk `N Text for good.
Alapag showed the way for Talk ‘N Text with 22 points, followed by Castro (20) and Cardona (16).
San Miguel 100 - Santos 17, Hontiveros 17, Pennisi 15, Seigle 11, Custodio 9, Cortez 9, Villanueva 7, Pena 6, Tugade 5, Miranda 2, Racela 2, Eman 0.
Talk N' Text 90 - Alapag 22, Castro 20, Cardona 16, Peek 13, De Ocampo Y. 8, De Ocampo R. 4, Carey 4, Belasco 2, Dillinger 1, Ritualo 0.
Quarter scores: 26-14, 55-38, 77-61, 100-90.
** Above Photo source: PBA.ph
Barako Bull Registers Second Upset Win
source: pba.ph
BARAKO Bull unloaded another surprise Wednesday and this one is definitely bigger than its first.
Leaning on one big second quarter, the Energy Boosters stumped the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 89-81, to realize their best start in almost two years in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
A 38-point explosion in the said period enabled Barako Bull the to post a 21-point lead that proved to be enough of a cushion and pointed it on its way to a second win in four games, its first victory in the tournament coming at the expense of Coca-Cola via an 81-73 count last October 18.
The Energy Food and Drink franchise has not had such a four-game start in the last three conferences and was, according to coach Leo Isaac, a result of a sterling first half when they battled back from two eight-point deficits to go up by 64-43 at the break..
“We had a great first two quarters and going into the locker room at halftime up by 21 may insurance na kami,” beamed Isaac.
“We knew they were going to come back, but we also knew as long as we do not give them easy points or fastbreaks and as long as we are always there on defense we'll be fine,” he added.
Rain or Shine did stage a rally that brought it within 71-80, midway in the fourth period.
But any hopes the Elasto Painters may have had of avoiding a fourth loss in as many games went for naught when the likes of Alex Dimaunahan, Donbel Belano and Magnum Membrere took turns hitting the clutch shots that keptthe Energy Boosetsr' heads above water in the stretch.
Richard Alonzo notched a career-first double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds while Leo Najorda and Alex Crisano added 14 points each. Alonzo added five assists and Najorda seven rebounds, helping the shorter BarakoBull peg a 51-38 advantage off the boards.
“Iba kasi kapag ginusto ng puso at nakita namang nag-trabaho ng husto ang mga bata kanina,” noted Isaac, whose team only had three wins in the 2009 Fiesta Conference.
Gabe Norwood's 17 points and seven rebounds and Sol Mercado's 14 points and four assists led ROS, which, coincidentally, has not had such a 0-4 start since the 2008 Fiesta Conference, when it was known as Welcoat.
The Elasto Painters actually outscored the Energy Boosters, 38-25, in the second half. But the halftime hole was simply too deep as they went into the fourth period still trailing by 15.
After falling behind by 10-18 and 13-21 in the early goings, Barako Bull turned the game around by outscoring ROS by 25 points in the second quarter, spearheaded by the player deemed the most unlikely to star in a charge.
Crisano scattered all of his points in said period, highlighting the scoring spree with two triples and six straight free throws.
Ogie Menor, Yousif Aljamal and Membrere each had a triple to help plug holes on the Elasto Painters' zone defense, but likewise playing a big factor were their opponents' nine turnovers which the Energy Boosters translated to 17 points.
Four of those ROS turnovers came in the first six minutes of the second when it also went 2-of-5 from the field, enabling BarakoBull to unleash an initial 20-4 run, capped by Crisano's three-point play and surprise trey, for a 46-34 lead.
Crisano also scored eight points and Menor seven in another 18-5 surge gave the Energy Boosters their biggest margin at 64-39.
Rain or Shine's bid to snap out of its funk seemed to be on the right track in the early goings when it led by 18-10, behind Mercado's six first quarter points, and at 21-13, when Norwood and Jeffrei Chan joined in the fray.
Then Barako Bull began ratcheting up its pressure and drew inspiration from a rare triple by forward-center Gilbert Lao to trim the deficit to just 26-30. (NC)
The scores:
Barako Bull 89 - Alonzo 15, Najorda 14, Crisano 14, Menor 9, Membrere 9, Aljamal 7, Dimaunahan 6, Belano 6, Duncil 4, Lao 3, Hubalde 2.
Rain or Shine 81 - Norwood 17, Mercado 14, Arellano 9, Cruz 6, Chan 6, Laure 6, Tang 5, Telan 5, Reyes 4, Arana 3, Ibanes 3, Hrabak 3.
Quarterscores: 26-30, 64-43, 75-60, 89-81.
BARAKO Bull unloaded another surprise Wednesday and this one is definitely bigger than its first.
Leaning on one big second quarter, the Energy Boosters stumped the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 89-81, to realize their best start in almost two years in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
A 38-point explosion in the said period enabled Barako Bull the to post a 21-point lead that proved to be enough of a cushion and pointed it on its way to a second win in four games, its first victory in the tournament coming at the expense of Coca-Cola via an 81-73 count last October 18.
The Energy Food and Drink franchise has not had such a four-game start in the last three conferences and was, according to coach Leo Isaac, a result of a sterling first half when they battled back from two eight-point deficits to go up by 64-43 at the break..
“We had a great first two quarters and going into the locker room at halftime up by 21 may insurance na kami,” beamed Isaac.
“We knew they were going to come back, but we also knew as long as we do not give them easy points or fastbreaks and as long as we are always there on defense we'll be fine,” he added.
Rain or Shine did stage a rally that brought it within 71-80, midway in the fourth period.
But any hopes the Elasto Painters may have had of avoiding a fourth loss in as many games went for naught when the likes of Alex Dimaunahan, Donbel Belano and Magnum Membrere took turns hitting the clutch shots that keptthe Energy Boosetsr' heads above water in the stretch.
Richard Alonzo notched a career-first double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds while Leo Najorda and Alex Crisano added 14 points each. Alonzo added five assists and Najorda seven rebounds, helping the shorter BarakoBull peg a 51-38 advantage off the boards.
“Iba kasi kapag ginusto ng puso at nakita namang nag-trabaho ng husto ang mga bata kanina,” noted Isaac, whose team only had three wins in the 2009 Fiesta Conference.
Gabe Norwood's 17 points and seven rebounds and Sol Mercado's 14 points and four assists led ROS, which, coincidentally, has not had such a 0-4 start since the 2008 Fiesta Conference, when it was known as Welcoat.
The Elasto Painters actually outscored the Energy Boosters, 38-25, in the second half. But the halftime hole was simply too deep as they went into the fourth period still trailing by 15.
After falling behind by 10-18 and 13-21 in the early goings, Barako Bull turned the game around by outscoring ROS by 25 points in the second quarter, spearheaded by the player deemed the most unlikely to star in a charge.
Crisano scattered all of his points in said period, highlighting the scoring spree with two triples and six straight free throws.
Ogie Menor, Yousif Aljamal and Membrere each had a triple to help plug holes on the Elasto Painters' zone defense, but likewise playing a big factor were their opponents' nine turnovers which the Energy Boosters translated to 17 points.
Four of those ROS turnovers came in the first six minutes of the second when it also went 2-of-5 from the field, enabling BarakoBull to unleash an initial 20-4 run, capped by Crisano's three-point play and surprise trey, for a 46-34 lead.
Crisano also scored eight points and Menor seven in another 18-5 surge gave the Energy Boosters their biggest margin at 64-39.
Rain or Shine's bid to snap out of its funk seemed to be on the right track in the early goings when it led by 18-10, behind Mercado's six first quarter points, and at 21-13, when Norwood and Jeffrei Chan joined in the fray.
Then Barako Bull began ratcheting up its pressure and drew inspiration from a rare triple by forward-center Gilbert Lao to trim the deficit to just 26-30. (NC)
The scores:
Barako Bull 89 - Alonzo 15, Najorda 14, Crisano 14, Menor 9, Membrere 9, Aljamal 7, Dimaunahan 6, Belano 6, Duncil 4, Lao 3, Hubalde 2.
Rain or Shine 81 - Norwood 17, Mercado 14, Arellano 9, Cruz 6, Chan 6, Laure 6, Tang 5, Telan 5, Reyes 4, Arana 3, Ibanes 3, Hrabak 3.
Quarterscores: 26-30, 64-43, 75-60, 89-81.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
PBA anxious over hearing on Arboleda hitting incident
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) expressed discomfort over a House of Representatives hearing called by Manila Rep. Amado Bagatsing on the incident involving Burger King point guard Wynnie Arboleda and a spectator.
PBA chairman Lito Alvarez, also the Burger King team manager, said the hearing is no longer needed because the league has already imposed a severe punishment on the player while the aggrieved party has also filed a legal case against Arboleda.
“The decision to call a hearing is untimely because the league has already imposed a rest-of-the-season ban on Arboleda and Wynnie has accepted the decision,” said Alvarez, one of the several personalities invited to attend the hearing.
“[Aside from] that, mayroon ng pending case involving both the player and the fan,” added Alvarez, who will represent the PBA in the hearing because commissioner Sonny Barrios has a previous commitment.
Alvarez said that instead of dipping its fingers in this incident, Congress should rather focus on more serious problems the country is facing.
Arboleda was suspended without pay and will lose close to P3 million in salaries. The camp of Alain Katigbac, the fan who Arboleda attacked because of his alleged incessant taunting, wants a lifetime ban imposed on the Whopper point guard.
Bagatsing, head of the House Games and Amusements Committee, said he is “after the safety of the players and the fans.”
Katigbac, coaches Yeng Guiao of Burger King and Rajko Toroman of Smart Gilas, Games and Amusements Board chairman Eric Buhain, Smart Gilasteam manager Noli Eala, Araneta Coliseum officials Sienna Olaso and Rene Cayetano and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas vice chairman Ricky Vargas were also invited along with Danny Ildefonso and Marlou Aquino, the PBAplayers who were also involved in a similar incident.
Arboleda, although he has been suspended the entire season, continued to stay in shape by becoming one of the Whoppers’ practiceplayers.
Alvarez said on Monday the 32-year-old Arboleda could join the team’s scrimmage despite the suspension.
“He’s still welcome to join the team’s practice,” said Alvarez. “I even told him to attend the team’s practice three times a week to keep himself in good shape.”
Arboleda has two years left in his contract with Burger King. It is unclear whether the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, a son-in-law of team owner Bert Lina, will still be able to see action with the Whopper next season as management is mulling trade options.
Arboleda was almost shipped to Barako Bull after the incident, but the trade did not materialize because PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios has already imposed the ban.
“We are still evaluating things kung maghahanap pa ng ibang point guard pero ramdam ng team ’yung kawalan niya,” said Alvarez.
“We’re in constant discussion with coach Yeng and we might add one more player to help the team,” he added.
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) expressed discomfort over a House of Representatives hearing called by Manila Rep. Amado Bagatsing on the incident involving Burger King point guard Wynnie Arboleda and a spectator.
PBA chairman Lito Alvarez, also the Burger King team manager, said the hearing is no longer needed because the league has already imposed a severe punishment on the player while the aggrieved party has also filed a legal case against Arboleda.
“The decision to call a hearing is untimely because the league has already imposed a rest-of-the-season ban on Arboleda and Wynnie has accepted the decision,” said Alvarez, one of the several personalities invited to attend the hearing.
“[Aside from] that, mayroon ng pending case involving both the player and the fan,” added Alvarez, who will represent the PBA in the hearing because commissioner Sonny Barrios has a previous commitment.
Alvarez said that instead of dipping its fingers in this incident, Congress should rather focus on more serious problems the country is facing.
Arboleda was suspended without pay and will lose close to P3 million in salaries. The camp of Alain Katigbac, the fan who Arboleda attacked because of his alleged incessant taunting, wants a lifetime ban imposed on the Whopper point guard.
Bagatsing, head of the House Games and Amusements Committee, said he is “after the safety of the players and the fans.”
Katigbac, coaches Yeng Guiao of Burger King and Rajko Toroman of Smart Gilas, Games and Amusements Board chairman Eric Buhain, Smart Gilasteam manager Noli Eala, Araneta Coliseum officials Sienna Olaso and Rene Cayetano and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas vice chairman Ricky Vargas were also invited along with Danny Ildefonso and Marlou Aquino, the PBAplayers who were also involved in a similar incident.
Arboleda, although he has been suspended the entire season, continued to stay in shape by becoming one of the Whoppers’ practiceplayers.
Alvarez said on Monday the 32-year-old Arboleda could join the team’s scrimmage despite the suspension.
“He’s still welcome to join the team’s practice,” said Alvarez. “I even told him to attend the team’s practice three times a week to keep himself in good shape.”
Arboleda has two years left in his contract with Burger King. It is unclear whether the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, a son-in-law of team owner Bert Lina, will still be able to see action with the Whopper next season as management is mulling trade options.
Arboleda was almost shipped to Barako Bull after the incident, but the trade did not materialize because PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios has already imposed the ban.
“We are still evaluating things kung maghahanap pa ng ibang point guard pero ramdam ng team ’yung kawalan niya,” said Alvarez.
“We’re in constant discussion with coach Yeng and we might add one more player to help the team,” he added.
PBA to decide fate of Giles, Gilas 5
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
The Philippine Basketball Association is likely to bar C.J. Giles from playing for Smart Gilas for the rest of its guest stint in the KFC Philippine Cup after the top prospect for naturalization missed two games in the ongoing conference.
Another option is for Giles to be allowed to return to the Smart Gilas roster but their games reduced to tune-up matches and whose results would have no bearing in the tournament.
The PBA board has drawn up these options as Smart Gilas remains uncertain when Giles would return after going back to the US to attend to his ailing four-year-old son Jaden.
PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios will decide on Giles’ fate before the Smart Gilas-Coca-Cola match at the Cuneta Astrodome on Nov. 6.
“It’s up to the commissioner, but I think the Smart Gilas’ matches will continue to have bearing on the team standings. We’ve beaten them in a game where we lost our team captain forthe rest of the season. It’s a costly game and it’s one win already for us, ” said PBA board chairman Lito Alvarez.
Giles played against Burger King before sitting out their next two games against Talk n Text and Barangay Ginebra.
“Giles and two other key Smart Gilas players (Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Chris Tiu) didn’t play against Talk n Text which is practically a sister team. It would be unfair if they play full force against the other teams,” said a league governor refusing to be identified.
Meanwhile, reigning champion Talk n Text, unbeaten in three starts, faces an acid test today as it clashes with Fiesta Conference titlist San Miguel Beer in the KFC Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Tropang Texters and the Beermen figure in a duel of champions at 7:30 p.m. succeeding the 5 p.m. tiff between Barako Bull and Rain or Shine.
The Texters, toughened up by a series of overseas training during the off-season, have been impressive in the early goings of the all-Filipino tourney, winning their first three games by a whopping average margin of 19.7 points.
But coach Chot Reyes and his chargers themselves expect a tough fight against the Beermen.
“We’re on a good start largely because of our defensive efforts, but I guess the real proof of our defensive pudding is our next game,” said Reyes referring to their game against the Beermen.
The Beermen, still in the process of gaining chemistry with their re-tooled lineup, have just nailed their first win in the tourney, drubbing theBurger King Whoppers, 117-95, last Wednesday.
San Miguel lost its first two matches to Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk.
The Philippine Basketball Association is likely to bar C.J. Giles from playing for Smart Gilas for the rest of its guest stint in the KFC Philippine Cup after the top prospect for naturalization missed two games in the ongoing conference.
Another option is for Giles to be allowed to return to the Smart Gilas roster but their games reduced to tune-up matches and whose results would have no bearing in the tournament.
The PBA board has drawn up these options as Smart Gilas remains uncertain when Giles would return after going back to the US to attend to his ailing four-year-old son Jaden.
PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios will decide on Giles’ fate before the Smart Gilas-Coca-Cola match at the Cuneta Astrodome on Nov. 6.
“It’s up to the commissioner, but I think the Smart Gilas’ matches will continue to have bearing on the team standings. We’ve beaten them in a game where we lost our team captain forthe rest of the season. It’s a costly game and it’s one win already for us, ” said PBA board chairman Lito Alvarez.
Giles played against Burger King before sitting out their next two games against Talk n Text and Barangay Ginebra.
“Giles and two other key Smart Gilas players (Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Chris Tiu) didn’t play against Talk n Text which is practically a sister team. It would be unfair if they play full force against the other teams,” said a league governor refusing to be identified.
Meanwhile, reigning champion Talk n Text, unbeaten in three starts, faces an acid test today as it clashes with Fiesta Conference titlist San Miguel Beer in the KFC Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Tropang Texters and the Beermen figure in a duel of champions at 7:30 p.m. succeeding the 5 p.m. tiff between Barako Bull and Rain or Shine.
The Texters, toughened up by a series of overseas training during the off-season, have been impressive in the early goings of the all-Filipino tourney, winning their first three games by a whopping average margin of 19.7 points.
But coach Chot Reyes and his chargers themselves expect a tough fight against the Beermen.
“We’re on a good start largely because of our defensive efforts, but I guess the real proof of our defensive pudding is our next game,” said Reyes referring to their game against the Beermen.
The Beermen, still in the process of gaining chemistry with their re-tooled lineup, have just nailed their first win in the tourney, drubbing theBurger King Whoppers, 117-95, last Wednesday.
San Miguel lost its first two matches to Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk.
TNT eyes 4th victory, RoS eyes first
source: mb.com.ph
Defending champion Talk ’N Text shoots for a fourth straight win on Wednesday when it faces San Miguel Beer in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Gametime is set at 7:30 p.m. after the 5 o’clock opener pitting Barako Bull against Rain or Shine.
A victory by the Tropang Texters will give them a share of the lead with idle Alaska Milk and TNT coach Chot Reyes hopes to achieve this with a tough defense.
Reyes’ team is coming off a 100-83 win over Sta. Lucia Realty after the Tropang Texters’ defense limited the Realtors to a 35.3 percent shooting from the field (30-of-85).
“Proof of our defensive pudding is how we can limit a team with so many offensive weapons,” Reyes, citing the Beermen’s offense, said.
For San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen, his team’s offense is not enough and knows too that defense will also help them win the game.
“We have to play well defensively and control the boards to lessen their productivity,” Tanquingcen said.
Leading TNT is Mark Cardona and Jimmy Alapag, while backing them up are mainstays Ali Peek, Jason Castro, Renren Ritualo, Jared Dillinger, and Harvey Carey.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum) Oct. 28
5:00 p.m. — Barako Bull vs Rain or Shine
7:30 p.m. — San Miguel vs Talk ’N Text
Defending champion Talk ’N Text shoots for a fourth straight win on Wednesday when it faces San Miguel Beer in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Gametime is set at 7:30 p.m. after the 5 o’clock opener pitting Barako Bull against Rain or Shine.
A victory by the Tropang Texters will give them a share of the lead with idle Alaska Milk and TNT coach Chot Reyes hopes to achieve this with a tough defense.
Reyes’ team is coming off a 100-83 win over Sta. Lucia Realty after the Tropang Texters’ defense limited the Realtors to a 35.3 percent shooting from the field (30-of-85).
“Proof of our defensive pudding is how we can limit a team with so many offensive weapons,” Reyes, citing the Beermen’s offense, said.
For San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen, his team’s offense is not enough and knows too that defense will also help them win the game.
“We have to play well defensively and control the boards to lessen their productivity,” Tanquingcen said.
Leading TNT is Mark Cardona and Jimmy Alapag, while backing them up are mainstays Ali Peek, Jason Castro, Renren Ritualo, Jared Dillinger, and Harvey Carey.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum) Oct. 28
5:00 p.m. — Barako Bull vs Rain or Shine
7:30 p.m. — San Miguel vs Talk ’N Text
Monday, October 26, 2009
CAGUIOA'S INJURY WORSENS, NEEDS 5 MORE WEEKS! MENK'S READY TO PLAY!
MATATAGALAN ANG PAGBABALIK AKSYON NI INJURED BARANGAY GINEBRA SUPERSTAR MARK CAGUIOA.
SA PAKIKIPAGKWENTUHAN NG NBN SPORTS SA DALAWANG INTEGRAL PART NG GINEBRA COACHING STAFF--- IBINUNYAG NG MGA ITO NA TILA LUMALALA ANG PANANAKIT NG KANANG TUHOD NI THE SPARK.
ANG RIGHT KNEE NA ITO AY ANG KAPAREHONG INJURY NI CAGUIOA NA NAG SIDELINE S AKANIYA NG MAHIGIT ISANG TAON.
AYON KAY GINEBRA HEAD JONG UICHICO--- NAPILITAN UMANO ANG MGA DUKTOR NI CAGUIOA NA I-EXTEND ANG ONE WEEK REST NITO NG 4 TO 5 WEEKS.
MAY MAGA UMANO SA PATELLAR TENDON NI CAGUIOA KAYA’T HIRAP ITONG LUMAKAD.
SA PANIG NAMAN NI ASSISTANT COACH AT GUARD CONSULTANT JOHNNY ABARRIENTOS--- TALAGANG HIRAP ANG 30 YEAR OLD SCORING CHAMPION NA LUMAKAD.
SUMALANG UMANO SA IBA’T IBANG REHABILITATION DRILLS ANG PAA NI CAGUIOA.
AT DAHIL SA PANANAKIT NG PAA NITO--- NAPILITAN UMANO ANG MGA THERAPIST NITO NA ISALANG ANG CAGER SA POOL THERAPY UPANG HINDI MA-I-STRAIN ANG PAA NITO.
DHAIL DITO--- TINATAYANG APAT HANGGANG LIMANG LARO ANG MA MI MISS OUT PA NI CAGUIOA.
NGAYONG LINGGO PA MAG DEDECIDE SI UICHICO KUNG SINO SA KANYANG MGA RESERVE ANG KANILANG I TA TAP UPANG PANSAMANTALANG PUMALIT KAY CAGUIOA.
INAMIN NI UICHICO NA MALAKING KAWALAN SA KANILANG ROTATION SI THE SPARK AT NATATAKOT RIN UMANO ITONG MAPWERSA NAMAN ANG HAMSTRING NI MVP JAYJAY HELTERBRAND, NA SIYANG SUMASALO NG EXTRA MINUTES SA PAGKAWALA NG MANDALUYONG BASED CAGER.
SAMANTALA--- KUNG MAY MAGANDANG BALITA NAMAN MULA SA GINEBRA--- ITO AY ANG POSIBILIDAD NA MAARI NANGLUMARO SA NOVEMBER 6--- KONTRA BARAKO BULL ENERGY BOOSTERS SI POWER FORWARD ERIC MENK.
AYON KAY ABARRIENTOS--- MAGANDA NA ANG LAGAY NG PAA NI MAJOR PAIN AT WALA NA UMANONG MAGA ITO MALIBAN SA PNANAKIT PAMINSAN MINSAN.
MAGING SI UICHICO AY TIWALANG MAGAGAMIT NA NIYA MULI ANG KANYANG HULKING SLOTMAN.
SOURCE: Snow Badua - NBN Sports
SA PAKIKIPAGKWENTUHAN NG NBN SPORTS SA DALAWANG INTEGRAL PART NG GINEBRA COACHING STAFF--- IBINUNYAG NG MGA ITO NA TILA LUMALALA ANG PANANAKIT NG KANANG TUHOD NI THE SPARK.
ANG RIGHT KNEE NA ITO AY ANG KAPAREHONG INJURY NI CAGUIOA NA NAG SIDELINE S AKANIYA NG MAHIGIT ISANG TAON.
AYON KAY GINEBRA HEAD JONG UICHICO--- NAPILITAN UMANO ANG MGA DUKTOR NI CAGUIOA NA I-EXTEND ANG ONE WEEK REST NITO NG 4 TO 5 WEEKS.
MAY MAGA UMANO SA PATELLAR TENDON NI CAGUIOA KAYA’T HIRAP ITONG LUMAKAD.
SA PANIG NAMAN NI ASSISTANT COACH AT GUARD CONSULTANT JOHNNY ABARRIENTOS--- TALAGANG HIRAP ANG 30 YEAR OLD SCORING CHAMPION NA LUMAKAD.
SUMALANG UMANO SA IBA’T IBANG REHABILITATION DRILLS ANG PAA NI CAGUIOA.
AT DAHIL SA PANANAKIT NG PAA NITO--- NAPILITAN UMANO ANG MGA THERAPIST NITO NA ISALANG ANG CAGER SA POOL THERAPY UPANG HINDI MA-I-STRAIN ANG PAA NITO.
DHAIL DITO--- TINATAYANG APAT HANGGANG LIMANG LARO ANG MA MI MISS OUT PA NI CAGUIOA.
NGAYONG LINGGO PA MAG DEDECIDE SI UICHICO KUNG SINO SA KANYANG MGA RESERVE ANG KANILANG I TA TAP UPANG PANSAMANTALANG PUMALIT KAY CAGUIOA.
INAMIN NI UICHICO NA MALAKING KAWALAN SA KANILANG ROTATION SI THE SPARK AT NATATAKOT RIN UMANO ITONG MAPWERSA NAMAN ANG HAMSTRING NI MVP JAYJAY HELTERBRAND, NA SIYANG SUMASALO NG EXTRA MINUTES SA PAGKAWALA NG MANDALUYONG BASED CAGER.
SAMANTALA--- KUNG MAY MAGANDANG BALITA NAMAN MULA SA GINEBRA--- ITO AY ANG POSIBILIDAD NA MAARI NANGLUMARO SA NOVEMBER 6--- KONTRA BARAKO BULL ENERGY BOOSTERS SI POWER FORWARD ERIC MENK.
AYON KAY ABARRIENTOS--- MAGANDA NA ANG LAGAY NG PAA NI MAJOR PAIN AT WALA NA UMANONG MAGA ITO MALIBAN SA PNANAKIT PAMINSAN MINSAN.
MAGING SI UICHICO AY TIWALANG MAGAGAMIT NA NIYA MULI ANG KANYANG HULKING SLOTMAN.
SOURCE: Snow Badua - NBN Sports
Right On Track (Smart Gilas)
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
They have kept guest team Smart Gilas winless in the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, but coaches Yeng Guiao, Chot Reyes and Jong Uichico say the developmental team is on the right direction.
The team looking to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics and coached by Serbia’s Rajko Toroman has a 0-3 record in the tough pro league.
“They have a fluid game and they will be really good,” said Ginebra’s Uichico, who mentored the Philippine squad in the 2002 Busan Asian Games in South Korea.
“Mahaba pa na naman ang time nila and I think they are on the right track. The team is very young, they just need experience. They will be there in proper time,” he added.
Smart Gilas is entered as a guest team in the All-Filipino tournament, giving Burger King a good fight in its losing debut but absorbing huge losses back to back.
Guiao’s Burger King mauled Smart Gilas, 115-105, Reyes’s Talk ’N Text steamrollered the young squad, 103-70, while Uichico’s Kings demolished a CJ Giles-less Gilas, 100-72.
Uichico had been in this situation when his national pool back then, divided into two, were also massacred in a PBA stint, recording a combined 11-21 win-loss mark.
For Guiao, the physicality of games in the league will prepare the young Gilas team mentally and physically for the toughness of the international arena.
“They’ll get better and tougher,” said Guiao, who piloted the PBA-backed Team Pilipinas to eighth place in the 2009 Fiba-Asia qualifier in Tianjin, China.
“The PBA brand of play is less physical than the international brand of game but at least now they are getting a feel of it,” he added.
Both Uichico and Guiao agreed that having a naturalized player will be a big help in the team’s campaign. Giles, a six-foot-11 American cager, is being eyed by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) to be the country’s naturalized player for 2011 regional qualifier.
For Reyes, the Smart Gilas team is a few pieces away from becoming real competitive in the Asian region.
“This is a very strong team. Hindi pa sila buo and give them a couple of months, this team will really be good,” said Reyes, who led the RP 5 to a ninth-place finish in the 2007 Asia qualifier in Tokushima, Japan.
Reyes said Filipino-American shooting guard Chris Lutz of Marshall University and six-foot-nine Junmar Fajardo from Cebu could be the team’s missing pieces.
“Lutz is a good, big point guard who has a deep understanding of the game. We know for a fact that in the Fiba Asia, we need to have a big point guard and Lutz can take that spot,” said Reyes.
“As for Fajardo, project pa siya but Giles and Japeth [Aguilar] have to battle taller players sa practice para masanay sila,” he added.
They have kept guest team Smart Gilas winless in the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup, but coaches Yeng Guiao, Chot Reyes and Jong Uichico say the developmental team is on the right direction.
The team looking to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics and coached by Serbia’s Rajko Toroman has a 0-3 record in the tough pro league.
“They have a fluid game and they will be really good,” said Ginebra’s Uichico, who mentored the Philippine squad in the 2002 Busan Asian Games in South Korea.
“Mahaba pa na naman ang time nila and I think they are on the right track. The team is very young, they just need experience. They will be there in proper time,” he added.
Smart Gilas is entered as a guest team in the All-Filipino tournament, giving Burger King a good fight in its losing debut but absorbing huge losses back to back.
Guiao’s Burger King mauled Smart Gilas, 115-105, Reyes’s Talk ’N Text steamrollered the young squad, 103-70, while Uichico’s Kings demolished a CJ Giles-less Gilas, 100-72.
Uichico had been in this situation when his national pool back then, divided into two, were also massacred in a PBA stint, recording a combined 11-21 win-loss mark.
For Guiao, the physicality of games in the league will prepare the young Gilas team mentally and physically for the toughness of the international arena.
“They’ll get better and tougher,” said Guiao, who piloted the PBA-backed Team Pilipinas to eighth place in the 2009 Fiba-Asia qualifier in Tianjin, China.
“The PBA brand of play is less physical than the international brand of game but at least now they are getting a feel of it,” he added.
Both Uichico and Guiao agreed that having a naturalized player will be a big help in the team’s campaign. Giles, a six-foot-11 American cager, is being eyed by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) to be the country’s naturalized player for 2011 regional qualifier.
For Reyes, the Smart Gilas team is a few pieces away from becoming real competitive in the Asian region.
“This is a very strong team. Hindi pa sila buo and give them a couple of months, this team will really be good,” said Reyes, who led the RP 5 to a ninth-place finish in the 2007 Asia qualifier in Tokushima, Japan.
Reyes said Filipino-American shooting guard Chris Lutz of Marshall University and six-foot-nine Junmar Fajardo from Cebu could be the team’s missing pieces.
“Lutz is a good, big point guard who has a deep understanding of the game. We know for a fact that in the Fiba Asia, we need to have a big point guard and Lutz can take that spot,” said Reyes.
“As for Fajardo, project pa siya but Giles and Japeth [Aguilar] have to battle taller players sa practice para masanay sila,” he added.
BK keeps doors open for banished Arboleda
source: gmanews.tv
Beleaguered playmaker Wynne Arboleda will still have a team to return to since his mother squad, Burger King (BK), is keen on keeping the former Defensive Player of the Year when his season-long suspension ends after the 2009-2010 edition.
The Whoppers have been struggling in their Philippine Cup campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) 35th season with a 2-2 slate and are 1-1 since the stocky guard was suspended by the PBA for assaulting a fan.
Arboleda, who will have to take time out for eight months, was banned for the rest of the season after assaulting Smart-Gilas fan Alain Katigbac during Burger King’s game against the Smart Gilas squad of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
Burger King’s latest triumph was against winless Rain or Shine and they barely escaped with a 91-89 victory last Saturday in a PBA road game in Misamis Oriental.
BK team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said they would give Arboleda a second chance.
“He’s still welcome in the team," Alvarez told GMANews.TV. “In fact, I even told him to attend the practice three times a week to remain in good shape and get himself ready for next season."
Arboleda’s absence has had a tremendous impact on BK, whose backcourt missed the leadership and the intangibles provided by one of the best stopper’s the league has ever produced.
“We have a shaky backcourt. Wynne is a big loss for us, said Alvarez. “His absence is felt by the whole team especially if the other guards are not playing well."
Alvarez added they will evaluate Burger King’s next game whether to tap another player who will temporarily take the place of the man known as The Snatcher or stick with its present line up.
“We still have a game to evaluate things. Coach Yeng and I talked about this," said Alvarez. “We might add another player."
Beleaguered playmaker Wynne Arboleda will still have a team to return to since his mother squad, Burger King (BK), is keen on keeping the former Defensive Player of the Year when his season-long suspension ends after the 2009-2010 edition.
The Whoppers have been struggling in their Philippine Cup campaign in the Philippine Basketball Association’s (PBA) 35th season with a 2-2 slate and are 1-1 since the stocky guard was suspended by the PBA for assaulting a fan.
Arboleda, who will have to take time out for eight months, was banned for the rest of the season after assaulting Smart-Gilas fan Alain Katigbac during Burger King’s game against the Smart Gilas squad of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman.
Burger King’s latest triumph was against winless Rain or Shine and they barely escaped with a 91-89 victory last Saturday in a PBA road game in Misamis Oriental.
BK team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said they would give Arboleda a second chance.
“He’s still welcome in the team," Alvarez told GMANews.TV. “In fact, I even told him to attend the practice three times a week to remain in good shape and get himself ready for next season."
Arboleda’s absence has had a tremendous impact on BK, whose backcourt missed the leadership and the intangibles provided by one of the best stopper’s the league has ever produced.
“We have a shaky backcourt. Wynne is a big loss for us, said Alvarez. “His absence is felt by the whole team especially if the other guards are not playing well."
Alvarez added they will evaluate Burger King’s next game whether to tap another player who will temporarily take the place of the man known as The Snatcher or stick with its present line up.
“We still have a game to evaluate things. Coach Yeng and I talked about this," said Alvarez. “We might add another player."
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Arboleda wants forfeited pay for flood victims
source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com
Burger King guard Wynne Arboleda, suspended without pay for the rest of the PBA season, won’t mind if the Whoppers management donates the P2.73 million salary he’s not able to receive to the flood victims of Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
Invited as guest for the UST Varsitarian’s “Inkblots” national journalism fellowship at the Thomas Aquinas Research Complex last Friday, Arboleda told 251 campus writers from 31 schools all over the country he would gladly donate his forfeited wages.
Arboleda, 32, said the suspension is a big blow to his family, particularly as basketball is his main means of livelihood. The night of the horrid incident where he assaulted a fan Alain Katigbac in his first-row seat during a game against Smart-Gilas at the Araneta Coliseum last Oct. 16, Arboleda said he went home and cried to his wife April Rose.
And when PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios announced his suspension last Monday, Arboleda said it felt like his whole world had collapsed.
“I come from a poor family,” said Arboleda, two-time Defensive Player of the Year and No. 11 in the PBA’s all-time steals honor roll. “My father (Diolito) was a tricycle driver in Kalibo where I was born. My mother (Gloria) worked as a labandera (washerwoman). Basketball was my way out of poverty.”
Arboleda said after finishing a two-year course in Marine Transportation in Kalibo in 1997, an Aklan provincemate Boni Garcia recruited him to play for the Manuel L. Quezon University varsity in Manila. Garcia was the MLQU coach and Arboleda remembered playing two years with teammates like Arnold Calo, Melvin Taguines and Val Domingo.
“I’m the youngest of six children and my three brothers and I all played varsity basketball,” he said. “My brother Willie played for Adamson and Perpetual. My two other brothers played in Kalibo. I started playing when I was five. I thought of being a seaman, like my brother, but I wanted to make basketball my career. It’s the only way I could think of being successful and I love the game.”
From MLQU, Arboleda moved to the MBA with the Laguna Lakers then landed a job with Pop Cola in the PBA in 2000. From Pop Cola, Arboleda went to Tanduay and wound up with Fed-Ex (later Air21 and now, Burger King). His contract with Burger King expires in 2011.
“When I was suspended without pay, my wife asked if we would push through with our plans to celebrate our two children’s birthdays coming up,” he said. “Our son Alwyn is turning two on the 26th and our daughter Andy will be seven next month. We had a budget set aside for their birthday parties. I told her we won’t disappoint the kids. We’ll check how much we’ve saved in the bank.”
Arboleda said his priority is to provide for his family.
“I know basketball is not forever,” he said. “It has an ending. I’ve tried to prepare for life after basketball by putting up a taxi business. I have five taxis. There is pressure on me to make a living. I’ve asked my wife to be strong for me. I know this is a test from God but I also know God will take care of our family.”
Arboleda said he’s hoping and praying that something positive will come out of this trial in his life.
“Before, I used to go to Mass only every Sunday,” he said. “Now, I go to church everyday to pray. I don’t go anywhere else. I just stay home. I don’t read the papers and I don’t watch the news on TV. It’s not that I’m trying to escape from reality. I just want to spare my family from all the negative news about me.”
Arboleda, who has issued a public apology for his condemnable act, said defending the honor of his parents, particularly his mother, is something he will take to his grave.
“My mother suffered a stroke in 2000 and I brought her from Kalibo to Manila for treatment because she was half-paralyzed and couldn’t talk,” said Arboleda. “She had another stroke, went into coma and died in 2005. Two years ago, my sister Angelita died of tuberculosis and when I was playing for the national team at the Jones Cup in Taipei last June, my father passed away due to complications in the heart and kidney. Nearly all my savings went to paying for their medical and funeral expenses. Whatever I had left, I put in my taxi business. That’s why I’ll always defend the honor of my parents - I love them very much. I would sacrifice all over again for them.”
Arboleda said he has no immediate plans of filing an appeal before Barrios.
“I’ll try to stay in shape by playing with my teammates at practice,” said Arboleda. “There is a reason for everything and God will show me the way to come back.”
Arboleda said since his suspension, he has been invited to appear in Lucy Torres’ show “Shall We Dance” on TV and asked to help out in the Red Cross by Sen. Richard Gordon. Not too many fans know that the day before the Gilas game, Arboleda was in Muntinlupa distributing relief goods to flood victims.
“My reputation is I’m tough on the court but outside the court, I’m a guy whom if you get to know closely, you’ll want to be my textmate,” Arboleda told the “Inkblots” conferees. “At home, I spend my time playing with the kids and watching movies on DVD. I’m ‘under sa bahay.’”
Arboleda appealed to fans to understand that players are also human. “We make mistakes, too,” he said. “It’s hard to turn away from fans who are cursing your family, especially your mother. I don’t mind the insults to me but I hope the PBA does something about fans who become too personal.”
Burger King guard Wynne Arboleda, suspended without pay for the rest of the PBA season, won’t mind if the Whoppers management donates the P2.73 million salary he’s not able to receive to the flood victims of Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
Invited as guest for the UST Varsitarian’s “Inkblots” national journalism fellowship at the Thomas Aquinas Research Complex last Friday, Arboleda told 251 campus writers from 31 schools all over the country he would gladly donate his forfeited wages.
Arboleda, 32, said the suspension is a big blow to his family, particularly as basketball is his main means of livelihood. The night of the horrid incident where he assaulted a fan Alain Katigbac in his first-row seat during a game against Smart-Gilas at the Araneta Coliseum last Oct. 16, Arboleda said he went home and cried to his wife April Rose.
And when PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios announced his suspension last Monday, Arboleda said it felt like his whole world had collapsed.
“I come from a poor family,” said Arboleda, two-time Defensive Player of the Year and No. 11 in the PBA’s all-time steals honor roll. “My father (Diolito) was a tricycle driver in Kalibo where I was born. My mother (Gloria) worked as a labandera (washerwoman). Basketball was my way out of poverty.”
Arboleda said after finishing a two-year course in Marine Transportation in Kalibo in 1997, an Aklan provincemate Boni Garcia recruited him to play for the Manuel L. Quezon University varsity in Manila. Garcia was the MLQU coach and Arboleda remembered playing two years with teammates like Arnold Calo, Melvin Taguines and Val Domingo.
“I’m the youngest of six children and my three brothers and I all played varsity basketball,” he said. “My brother Willie played for Adamson and Perpetual. My two other brothers played in Kalibo. I started playing when I was five. I thought of being a seaman, like my brother, but I wanted to make basketball my career. It’s the only way I could think of being successful and I love the game.”
From MLQU, Arboleda moved to the MBA with the Laguna Lakers then landed a job with Pop Cola in the PBA in 2000. From Pop Cola, Arboleda went to Tanduay and wound up with Fed-Ex (later Air21 and now, Burger King). His contract with Burger King expires in 2011.
“When I was suspended without pay, my wife asked if we would push through with our plans to celebrate our two children’s birthdays coming up,” he said. “Our son Alwyn is turning two on the 26th and our daughter Andy will be seven next month. We had a budget set aside for their birthday parties. I told her we won’t disappoint the kids. We’ll check how much we’ve saved in the bank.”
Arboleda said his priority is to provide for his family.
“I know basketball is not forever,” he said. “It has an ending. I’ve tried to prepare for life after basketball by putting up a taxi business. I have five taxis. There is pressure on me to make a living. I’ve asked my wife to be strong for me. I know this is a test from God but I also know God will take care of our family.”
Arboleda said he’s hoping and praying that something positive will come out of this trial in his life.
“Before, I used to go to Mass only every Sunday,” he said. “Now, I go to church everyday to pray. I don’t go anywhere else. I just stay home. I don’t read the papers and I don’t watch the news on TV. It’s not that I’m trying to escape from reality. I just want to spare my family from all the negative news about me.”
Arboleda, who has issued a public apology for his condemnable act, said defending the honor of his parents, particularly his mother, is something he will take to his grave.
“My mother suffered a stroke in 2000 and I brought her from Kalibo to Manila for treatment because she was half-paralyzed and couldn’t talk,” said Arboleda. “She had another stroke, went into coma and died in 2005. Two years ago, my sister Angelita died of tuberculosis and when I was playing for the national team at the Jones Cup in Taipei last June, my father passed away due to complications in the heart and kidney. Nearly all my savings went to paying for their medical and funeral expenses. Whatever I had left, I put in my taxi business. That’s why I’ll always defend the honor of my parents - I love them very much. I would sacrifice all over again for them.”
Arboleda said he has no immediate plans of filing an appeal before Barrios.
“I’ll try to stay in shape by playing with my teammates at practice,” said Arboleda. “There is a reason for everything and God will show me the way to come back.”
Arboleda said since his suspension, he has been invited to appear in Lucy Torres’ show “Shall We Dance” on TV and asked to help out in the Red Cross by Sen. Richard Gordon. Not too many fans know that the day before the Gilas game, Arboleda was in Muntinlupa distributing relief goods to flood victims.
“My reputation is I’m tough on the court but outside the court, I’m a guy whom if you get to know closely, you’ll want to be my textmate,” Arboleda told the “Inkblots” conferees. “At home, I spend my time playing with the kids and watching movies on DVD. I’m ‘under sa bahay.’”
Arboleda appealed to fans to understand that players are also human. “We make mistakes, too,” he said. “It’s hard to turn away from fans who are cursing your family, especially your mother. I don’t mind the insults to me but I hope the PBA does something about fans who become too personal.”
Alaska survives Ginebra's 4Q rally, beats Kings
source: gmanews.tv
Alaska weathered Barangay Ginebra's huge fourth-quarter rally to pull off a 105-96 win and grab the solo lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Aces saw their 20-point halftime lead vanish, 82-80, entering the fourth but never lost their composure and poise in the final 12 minutes of play to complete the victory – their fourth in as many games.
Reynel Hugnatan led the unbeaten Aces with 20 points – shooting 10-of-14 from the free throw line – and eight rebounds while Willie Miller only finished with 11 but scored seven of his team’s last 15 points.
“We played loosey-loosey in the second half. But it’s how we responded to that run that’s important. We didn’t get caught in the panic. (We) know Ginebra wouldn’t just go down without a fight," said coach Tim Cone.
The Kings suffered their first loss in four outings, yielding the top spot to the Aces as they settled for solo second pending the outcome of the Talk ‘N Text-Sta. Lucia game.
The Aces raced to a 60-40 lead just before halftime after scoring 28 in the second period.
But the game got very interesting when Jay-Jay Helterbrand and Ronald Tubid found their shooting touch and started to knock in triples asGinebra poured in 38 in the third to make it a two-point game going into the final canto.
Ginebra was still well within striking distance after a Helterbrand basket (92-90).
But Miller, fresh off the bench, hit a long jumper, scored on a fastbreak, split his free throws and then had a key lay-up afterpoints from Hugnatan and LA Tenorio to push Alaska safely ahead at 103-95 with 1:02 left to play.
Miller also had five rebounds, two assists and committed only a turnover. Tony Dela Cruz added 16 points, Tenorio had 15 and Joe DeVance, playing hurt with a fractured rib, 10 for the Aces, who will now have 10 days of rest before facing Sta. Lucia on Nov. 4.
Sonny Thoss grabbed 10 rebounds and scored six points.
Helterbrand, burdened with carrying the offensive load after injuries on Mark Caguioa (left knee) and Eric Menk (fractured pinky toe), finished with 23 points and seven rebounds while Tubid contributed 22 points and five rebounds.
Scores
Alaska 105 – Hugnatan 20, Dela Cruz 16, Tenorio 15, Miller 11, De Vance 10, Ferriols 9, Fonacier 8, Thoss 8, Borboran 5, Cariaso 5, Burtscher 0.
Ginebra 96 – Helterbrand 23, Tubid 22, Intal 13, Villanueva 11, Salvacion 8, Mamaril 7, Alavarez 6, Wilson 2, Cruz 2, Bagio 2.
Quarter scores: 32-26, 60-42, 82-80, 105-96.
Alaska weathered Barangay Ginebra's huge fourth-quarter rally to pull off a 105-96 win and grab the solo lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Aces saw their 20-point halftime lead vanish, 82-80, entering the fourth but never lost their composure and poise in the final 12 minutes of play to complete the victory – their fourth in as many games.
Reynel Hugnatan led the unbeaten Aces with 20 points – shooting 10-of-14 from the free throw line – and eight rebounds while Willie Miller only finished with 11 but scored seven of his team’s last 15 points.
“We played loosey-loosey in the second half. But it’s how we responded to that run that’s important. We didn’t get caught in the panic. (We) know Ginebra wouldn’t just go down without a fight," said coach Tim Cone.
The Kings suffered their first loss in four outings, yielding the top spot to the Aces as they settled for solo second pending the outcome of the Talk ‘N Text-Sta. Lucia game.
The Aces raced to a 60-40 lead just before halftime after scoring 28 in the second period.
But the game got very interesting when Jay-Jay Helterbrand and Ronald Tubid found their shooting touch and started to knock in triples asGinebra poured in 38 in the third to make it a two-point game going into the final canto.
Ginebra was still well within striking distance after a Helterbrand basket (92-90).
But Miller, fresh off the bench, hit a long jumper, scored on a fastbreak, split his free throws and then had a key lay-up afterpoints from Hugnatan and LA Tenorio to push Alaska safely ahead at 103-95 with 1:02 left to play.
Miller also had five rebounds, two assists and committed only a turnover. Tony Dela Cruz added 16 points, Tenorio had 15 and Joe DeVance, playing hurt with a fractured rib, 10 for the Aces, who will now have 10 days of rest before facing Sta. Lucia on Nov. 4.
Sonny Thoss grabbed 10 rebounds and scored six points.
Helterbrand, burdened with carrying the offensive load after injuries on Mark Caguioa (left knee) and Eric Menk (fractured pinky toe), finished with 23 points and seven rebounds while Tubid contributed 22 points and five rebounds.
Scores
Alaska 105 – Hugnatan 20, Dela Cruz 16, Tenorio 15, Miller 11, De Vance 10, Ferriols 9, Fonacier 8, Thoss 8, Borboran 5, Cariaso 5, Burtscher 0.
Ginebra 96 – Helterbrand 23, Tubid 22, Intal 13, Villanueva 11, Salvacion 8, Mamaril 7, Alavarez 6, Wilson 2, Cruz 2, Bagio 2.
Quarter scores: 32-26, 60-42, 82-80, 105-96.
Talk N Text beat Sta. Lucia, 100-83
source: pba.ph
Talk n Text, the title holder toughened up by a heavy load of overseas training during the off-season, continued to throw its weight around in the 2009-2010 KFC Philippine Cup, ripping Sta. Lucia Realty, 100-83, at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.
The Tropang Texters, working on a sleek running game, broke away in the third period and never looked back en route to a third straight win following earlier victories over Smart Gilas and Rain or Shine.
So impressive were the Texters in their first three games, winning all these matches by an average margin of 19.7 points.
Ranged against the 2007-08 Philippine Cup champions, the reigning title-holders were still up to the task notwithstanding the absence of sophomore guard-forward Jarred Dillinger.
"We rose on Jarred's absence by playing tough defense. We suffered on Sta. Lucia's awesome rebounding early on but we came out strong in the second half, making great, energetic plays," said Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes.
"It's a nice win for us but I guess the real proof of our defensive pudding is our next game," added Reyes, referring to their showdown with San Miguel Beer Wednesday.
Dillinger sat out the game due to a sprained ankle but the Tropang Texters hardly felt his absence with the team continuing to play A-1 game together.
Mark Cardona poured in a game-high 25 points with Jason Castro, Jimmy Alapag, Nic Belasco and Ali Peek adding at least 11 points each.
Cardona and Belasco fired nine and eight, respectively, in the third period, fueling TnT's breakaway from a mere six-point lead at halftime.
Establishing control in the third, the Texters kept the pace all the way to the finish to preserve their clean slate while dealing the Realtors their first loss in three starts.
Going down the drain were the big numbers of Joseph Yeo, Nelbert Omolon, Gabby Espinas, Ryan Reyes and Kelly Williams.
Three weeks into the tourney, the Texters and the Alaska Milk Aces remained as the only teams with unblemished records.
Earlier in the day, the Aces -- runners-up to the Texters in the last Philippine Cup -- whipped the Ginebra Kings, 105-96.
Talk n Text ran and gunned at the start, taking the first period at 22-18 and the half at 48-42.
Castro, Alapag and Cardona starred for the team as it beat Sta. Lucia by 12, 16-4, on fastbreaks in the first two quarters of play.
Castro took over the game in the second period, putting in 14 on 5-of-6 shooting from the field and 3-of-5 clip from the stripe. (SB)
The scores:
Talk n Text 100 – Cardona 25, Castro 16, Alapag 12, Belasco 12, Peek 11, Ritualo 8, De Ocampo R. 6, Carey 6, De Ocampo Y. 4, Escobal 0, Isip 0.
Sta. Lucia 83 – Yeo 17, Omolon 17, Espinas 16, Reyes 11, Williams 9, Daa 6, Urbiztondo 5, Pacana 2, Waters 0, Larong 0, Misolas 0, Aquino 0.
Talk n Text, the title holder toughened up by a heavy load of overseas training during the off-season, continued to throw its weight around in the 2009-2010 KFC Philippine Cup, ripping Sta. Lucia Realty, 100-83, at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.
The Tropang Texters, working on a sleek running game, broke away in the third period and never looked back en route to a third straight win following earlier victories over Smart Gilas and Rain or Shine.
So impressive were the Texters in their first three games, winning all these matches by an average margin of 19.7 points.
Ranged against the 2007-08 Philippine Cup champions, the reigning title-holders were still up to the task notwithstanding the absence of sophomore guard-forward Jarred Dillinger.
"We rose on Jarred's absence by playing tough defense. We suffered on Sta. Lucia's awesome rebounding early on but we came out strong in the second half, making great, energetic plays," said Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes.
"It's a nice win for us but I guess the real proof of our defensive pudding is our next game," added Reyes, referring to their showdown with San Miguel Beer Wednesday.
Dillinger sat out the game due to a sprained ankle but the Tropang Texters hardly felt his absence with the team continuing to play A-1 game together.
Mark Cardona poured in a game-high 25 points with Jason Castro, Jimmy Alapag, Nic Belasco and Ali Peek adding at least 11 points each.
Cardona and Belasco fired nine and eight, respectively, in the third period, fueling TnT's breakaway from a mere six-point lead at halftime.
Establishing control in the third, the Texters kept the pace all the way to the finish to preserve their clean slate while dealing the Realtors their first loss in three starts.
Going down the drain were the big numbers of Joseph Yeo, Nelbert Omolon, Gabby Espinas, Ryan Reyes and Kelly Williams.
Three weeks into the tourney, the Texters and the Alaska Milk Aces remained as the only teams with unblemished records.
Earlier in the day, the Aces -- runners-up to the Texters in the last Philippine Cup -- whipped the Ginebra Kings, 105-96.
Talk n Text ran and gunned at the start, taking the first period at 22-18 and the half at 48-42.
Castro, Alapag and Cardona starred for the team as it beat Sta. Lucia by 12, 16-4, on fastbreaks in the first two quarters of play.
Castro took over the game in the second period, putting in 14 on 5-of-6 shooting from the field and 3-of-5 clip from the stripe. (SB)
The scores:
Talk n Text 100 – Cardona 25, Castro 16, Alapag 12, Belasco 12, Peek 11, Ritualo 8, De Ocampo R. 6, Carey 6, De Ocampo Y. 4, Escobal 0, Isip 0.
Sta. Lucia 83 – Yeo 17, Omolon 17, Espinas 16, Reyes 11, Williams 9, Daa 6, Urbiztondo 5, Pacana 2, Waters 0, Larong 0, Misolas 0, Aquino 0.
Burger King win over Rain or Shine
source: PBA.ph
Misamis Oriental – Burger King went on a hot start then tapered off in the middle quarters but caught a second wind at the finish as it upended Rain or Shine, 91-89, in a KFC PBA Philippine Cup out-of-town tussle here Saturday night.
Before a good weekend crowd at the Arturo Lugod Gym, Ronjay Buenafe dished out his best game in a BK jersey, coming through with 22 points, including the winning basket in the contest serving as the second stop of the Phoenix Fuel PBA on Tour.
Mark Yee and Richard Yee also made an impact as the Whoppers survived the Elasto Painters in their tough showdown, notching a second win in four starts in the all-Filipino tourney.
BK is now 2-1 since the departure of Japeth Aguilar and 1-1 following the ouster of Wynne Arboleda.
Rain or Shine, meanwhile, remained winless in three outings as the Elasto Painters were obviously still looking to develop chemistry with a number of new recruits.
Burger King squandered an early 16-point lead but regrouped and overcame an eight-point deficit in the last four minutes of play.
Ryan Arana put in a career-best 25-point output but missed a charity that could have pushed Rain or Shine ahead with 5.8 ticks left.
Mark Yee and Buenafe converted back-to-back treys to cap a decisive 11-to-nothing run that brought BK back into the game after a meltdown in the two middle quarters.
The Whoppers had the chance to clinch the game earlier but they fumbled an inbound play while holding a precarious 89-88 lead with 8.6 seconds left.
The Elasto Painters then went to Arana in a bid to steal the game.
The gutsy player from La Salle drew a foul from Richard Yee on a barreling drive that sent him to the line. Alas, Arana canned in just one free throw to tie the count at 89-all.
Immediately suing for time, BK opted to go to Buenafe who bailed them out in converting a running jumper.
Buenafe also drew a foul from Jeff Chan on the way to the basket. He missed the accompanying shot but Rain or Shine was left with no time to plot a final play.
Arana waxed hottest in the third quarter, presiding over a searing Rain or Shine attack that had them surging ahead at 61-57.
The Whoppers dominated the first half, leading by as many as 16 on a torrid 57-percent field-goal shooting.
BK opened the game with a 17-3 run then had its 16-point spread at 23-7, eight minutes into the contest.
Rain or Shine went to Arana and JayR Reyes as the Elasto Painters rallied to within five at 33-38 early in the second period.
The Whoppers converted 13 of 23 field-goal attempts while the Elasto Painters struggled with an 8-of-26 shooting in the first 24 minutes of play. (SB)
The scores:
Burger King 91 – Buenafe 22, M. Yee 14, R. Yee 13, Belga 10, Matias 8, Sharma 6, Billones 5, Lanete 4, Aban 4, David 3, Quinahan 2.
Rain or Shine 89 – Arana 25, Reyes 15, Chan 14, Norwood 13, Laure 9, Mercado 6, Telan 5, Arellano 2, Ibanes 0, Dulay 0, Cruz 0.
Quarterscores: 32-18, 55-47, 61-69, 91-89
Misamis Oriental – Burger King went on a hot start then tapered off in the middle quarters but caught a second wind at the finish as it upended Rain or Shine, 91-89, in a KFC PBA Philippine Cup out-of-town tussle here Saturday night.
Before a good weekend crowd at the Arturo Lugod Gym, Ronjay Buenafe dished out his best game in a BK jersey, coming through with 22 points, including the winning basket in the contest serving as the second stop of the Phoenix Fuel PBA on Tour.
Mark Yee and Richard Yee also made an impact as the Whoppers survived the Elasto Painters in their tough showdown, notching a second win in four starts in the all-Filipino tourney.
BK is now 2-1 since the departure of Japeth Aguilar and 1-1 following the ouster of Wynne Arboleda.
Rain or Shine, meanwhile, remained winless in three outings as the Elasto Painters were obviously still looking to develop chemistry with a number of new recruits.
Burger King squandered an early 16-point lead but regrouped and overcame an eight-point deficit in the last four minutes of play.
Ryan Arana put in a career-best 25-point output but missed a charity that could have pushed Rain or Shine ahead with 5.8 ticks left.
Mark Yee and Buenafe converted back-to-back treys to cap a decisive 11-to-nothing run that brought BK back into the game after a meltdown in the two middle quarters.
The Whoppers had the chance to clinch the game earlier but they fumbled an inbound play while holding a precarious 89-88 lead with 8.6 seconds left.
The Elasto Painters then went to Arana in a bid to steal the game.
The gutsy player from La Salle drew a foul from Richard Yee on a barreling drive that sent him to the line. Alas, Arana canned in just one free throw to tie the count at 89-all.
Immediately suing for time, BK opted to go to Buenafe who bailed them out in converting a running jumper.
Buenafe also drew a foul from Jeff Chan on the way to the basket. He missed the accompanying shot but Rain or Shine was left with no time to plot a final play.
Arana waxed hottest in the third quarter, presiding over a searing Rain or Shine attack that had them surging ahead at 61-57.
The Whoppers dominated the first half, leading by as many as 16 on a torrid 57-percent field-goal shooting.
BK opened the game with a 17-3 run then had its 16-point spread at 23-7, eight minutes into the contest.
Rain or Shine went to Arana and JayR Reyes as the Elasto Painters rallied to within five at 33-38 early in the second period.
The Whoppers converted 13 of 23 field-goal attempts while the Elasto Painters struggled with an 8-of-26 shooting in the first 24 minutes of play. (SB)
The scores:
Burger King 91 – Buenafe 22, M. Yee 14, R. Yee 13, Belga 10, Matias 8, Sharma 6, Billones 5, Lanete 4, Aban 4, David 3, Quinahan 2.
Rain or Shine 89 – Arana 25, Reyes 15, Chan 14, Norwood 13, Laure 9, Mercado 6, Telan 5, Arellano 2, Ibanes 0, Dulay 0, Cruz 0.
Quarterscores: 32-18, 55-47, 61-69, 91-89
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Mark Caguioa bumalik ang injury!
by: Snow Badua
Masama pong balita para sa mga barangay ginebra fans...
Bukod kay Eric Menk may isa pang integral ginebra player ang malamang ma-sideline ng ilang laro.
Hold your breath, ito ay walang iba kungdi si superstar Mark Caguioa.
Sa isang text message na ipinaabot sa nbn sports ni Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico muli umanong nanakit ang kanang tuhod ni Caguioa sa kanilang laro kontra Purefoods nuong linggo.
Ang injury na ito ay magugunitang naging snahi kung bakit mahigit isang taong nawala sa aksyon ang ginebra scoring champion.
Sa ngayon ay binibigyan umano ng isang buong linggong pahinga ng gins si the spark at mula duon ay saka nila ma-a-asses ang lagay ng tuhod nito.
Wala pang masegurong sagot si Uichico maliban sa katotohanang hindi nila papalaruin si caguioa ng isnag buong linggo mula ngayon.
Ibig sabihin niyan, wala si Caguioa sa laro ng ginebra kontra Smart Gilas sa biyernes at kontra Alaska Aces sa linggo.
Samantala, hindi pa rin masagot ni uichico kung i a activate pa nila mula sa reserve list si big man acquisition Paolo Bugia.
Tinatantya pa muna umano nila ang injury ni Menk bago nila bigyan ng call slip ang dating Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants.
- Hindi lang si Bagyong PEPENG ang bumalik pati ang Injury ni MC bumalik din! tsk tsk tsk...
Masama pong balita para sa mga barangay ginebra fans...
Bukod kay Eric Menk may isa pang integral ginebra player ang malamang ma-sideline ng ilang laro.
Hold your breath, ito ay walang iba kungdi si superstar Mark Caguioa.
Sa isang text message na ipinaabot sa nbn sports ni Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico muli umanong nanakit ang kanang tuhod ni Caguioa sa kanilang laro kontra Purefoods nuong linggo.
Ang injury na ito ay magugunitang naging snahi kung bakit mahigit isang taong nawala sa aksyon ang ginebra scoring champion.
Sa ngayon ay binibigyan umano ng isang buong linggong pahinga ng gins si the spark at mula duon ay saka nila ma-a-asses ang lagay ng tuhod nito.
Wala pang masegurong sagot si Uichico maliban sa katotohanang hindi nila papalaruin si caguioa ng isnag buong linggo mula ngayon.
Ibig sabihin niyan, wala si Caguioa sa laro ng ginebra kontra Smart Gilas sa biyernes at kontra Alaska Aces sa linggo.
Samantala, hindi pa rin masagot ni uichico kung i a activate pa nila mula sa reserve list si big man acquisition Paolo Bugia.
Tinatantya pa muna umano nila ang injury ni Menk bago nila bigyan ng call slip ang dating Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants.
- Hindi lang si Bagyong PEPENG ang bumalik pati ang Injury ni MC bumalik din! tsk tsk tsk...
Santos torches former team, San Miguel trounces Burger King
source: gmanews.tv
San Miguel Beer finally barged into the win column of the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup turning back Burger King, 117-99, in Wednesday night’s main game of a triple header at the Astrodome.
Arwind Santos torched his former team for 28 points and had a career-high 18 rebounds in the Beermen’s first win of the season in three games.
Acquired in the off-season due to what coach Siot Tanquingcen described as his similarity with the playing style of import Gabe Freeman, Santos also added three assists in a game the Beermen dominated majority of the way.
“Flattered siyempre tayo doon," said Santos of the comparison with the versatile Freeman, the San Miguel import when the team bagged the Fiesta Cup title last season at the expense of Barangay Ginebra.
“Medyo nag-settle down na rin ako, kaya medyo napa-ganda na ang laro. Kasi the first two games medyo nanggigil pa ako," added the former Far Eastern University standout.
San Miguel lost its first two games against Barangay Ginebra and Alaska.
Burger King on the other hand, lost its second game in three outings.
Playing without starting point guard Wynne Arboleda, the Whoppers struggled early on and trailed by as many as 13 (47-34) in the first half.
But they came back strong in the third quarter behind Egay Billones, whose three-pointer midway in the period had Burger King threatening at 68-65.
The Beermen however, answered back with their own run, unloading a big 15-2 binge, capped by an open Dondon Hontiveros jumper to bring the lead back to 16, 83-67.
The Whoppers made a last stand in the final quarter when they trimmed the deficit to 95-85.
Again San Miguel responded.
Draining three-pointers one after the other, the Beermen finally buried the Whoppers, 109-88, with Olsen Racela’s booming trey serving as the final nail to Burger Kings’ coffer.
Billones led the Whoppers with 16 points.
Santos later dedicated the game to Arboleda, his long-time Burger King teammate, who was suspended for the rest of the season for attacking a male fan last week at the special ringside section of the Araneta Coliseum.
“Para kay pareng Wynne ito. Siyempre, I sympathize with him," said Santos.
The scores:
San Miguel 117 - Santos 28, Cortez 16, Pennisi 14, Hontiveros 13, Tugade 12, Villanueva 10, Miranda 10, Pena 6, Custodio 3, Racela 3, Eman 2, Calaguio 0.
Burger King 99 - Yee 17, Billones 16, Quinahan 14, Lanete 13, Matias 7, Buenafe 7, Aban 7, Sharma 7, Yee 5, David 4, Belga 2.
Quarterscores: 34-24, 60-49, 85-73, 117-99
San Miguel Beer finally barged into the win column of the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup turning back Burger King, 117-99, in Wednesday night’s main game of a triple header at the Astrodome.
Arwind Santos torched his former team for 28 points and had a career-high 18 rebounds in the Beermen’s first win of the season in three games.
Acquired in the off-season due to what coach Siot Tanquingcen described as his similarity with the playing style of import Gabe Freeman, Santos also added three assists in a game the Beermen dominated majority of the way.
“Flattered siyempre tayo doon," said Santos of the comparison with the versatile Freeman, the San Miguel import when the team bagged the Fiesta Cup title last season at the expense of Barangay Ginebra.
“Medyo nag-settle down na rin ako, kaya medyo napa-ganda na ang laro. Kasi the first two games medyo nanggigil pa ako," added the former Far Eastern University standout.
San Miguel lost its first two games against Barangay Ginebra and Alaska.
Burger King on the other hand, lost its second game in three outings.
Playing without starting point guard Wynne Arboleda, the Whoppers struggled early on and trailed by as many as 13 (47-34) in the first half.
But they came back strong in the third quarter behind Egay Billones, whose three-pointer midway in the period had Burger King threatening at 68-65.
The Beermen however, answered back with their own run, unloading a big 15-2 binge, capped by an open Dondon Hontiveros jumper to bring the lead back to 16, 83-67.
The Whoppers made a last stand in the final quarter when they trimmed the deficit to 95-85.
Again San Miguel responded.
Draining three-pointers one after the other, the Beermen finally buried the Whoppers, 109-88, with Olsen Racela’s booming trey serving as the final nail to Burger Kings’ coffer.
Billones led the Whoppers with 16 points.
Santos later dedicated the game to Arboleda, his long-time Burger King teammate, who was suspended for the rest of the season for attacking a male fan last week at the special ringside section of the Araneta Coliseum.
“Para kay pareng Wynne ito. Siyempre, I sympathize with him," said Santos.
The scores:
San Miguel 117 - Santos 28, Cortez 16, Pennisi 14, Hontiveros 13, Tugade 12, Villanueva 10, Miranda 10, Pena 6, Custodio 3, Racela 3, Eman 2, Calaguio 0.
Burger King 99 - Yee 17, Billones 16, Quinahan 14, Lanete 13, Matias 7, Buenafe 7, Aban 7, Sharma 7, Yee 5, David 4, Belga 2.
Quarterscores: 34-24, 60-49, 85-73, 117-99
Sta. Lucia beat Rain or Shine, 95-90
source: pba.ph
STA. Lucia Realty is on a mission and will pounce on any opportunity that comes its way.
Like Wednesday, when the Realtors took advantage of Rain or Shine’s manpower shortage to carve out a 95-90 overtime victory and grab a share of the early lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.
Kelly Williams flashed his MVP form of two seasons ago with 28 points, 14 rebounds and six assists while Joseph Yeo and Bitoy Omolon provided plenty of help in the Realtors’ decisive surge in the extension as Sta. Lucia started a conference at 2-0 for the first time in three conferences, or since the 2008 Fiesta.
The Elasto Painters sorely missed the services of Sol Mercado, who was struck by food poisoning the night before, and the injured Mike Hrabak as they absorbed their second loss in as many games.
(Photo source: PBA.ph)
“I’m happy we came out winners,” said Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez, whose team opened its bid to get back the crown it won in the 2007-08 season with a 95-76 thrashing of Coca-Cola last Friday.
“Our players started flat because they probably thought without Mercado and Hrabak we can win the game handily,” he added. “But credit Rain or Shine. They played their game tonight, even without those two, especially Mercado.”
Rain or Shine did dish out a valiant fight, but fell way short in overtime where it was held to a solitary field goal. It was the Asian Coatings franchise’s second loss, dropping it in the company of San Miguel Beer, Coca-Cola and Smart Gilas.
For naught went the 19 points by Ryan Arana and the 18 and team-high nine rebounds by Gabe Norwood, whose fallaway in the last three seconds of regulation pegged an 84-all count. Last year’s Rookie of the Year also had a game-high seven turnovers.
“Loss is on my shoulders tho. 7 TOs wont help any team win a close,” Norwood said on his Twitter page.
The touch that propped Rain or Shine back from a 48-59 deficit and enabled it to engage Sta. Lucia through four deadlocks and eight lead changes in the fourth quarter alone was virtually absent in overtime as the Elasto Painters went 1-for-9 from the field.
The Realtors were quick to capitalize, surging to a 92-86 spread that proved solid enough to hold up in the last 1:34.
Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra’s Mark Caguioa is a doubtful starter in Friday’s game after his left knee swelled up. He was taken to the hospital for treatment Wednesday.
Caguioa, Best Player of the Conference in the Kings’ title romp in the 2006-07 edition of the tournament, missed all of last season for surgery on both of his knees.
Although not yet fully in game shape, Caguioa seems on his way to recovering his old fiery form, averaging 12.5 points in Ginebra’s first two games in the tournament.
The Kings are already set to play at least another game minus Eric Menk, who has an injured little toe. (NC)
The scores:
Sta. Lucia 95 - Williams 28, Espinas 13, Daa 12, Omolon 12, Yeo 11, Reyes 8, Aquino 4, Jaime 2, Larong 2, Misolas 2, Urbiztondo 1, Pacana 0.
Rain or Shine 90 - Arana 19, Norwood 18, Cruz 14, Laure 11, Arellano 8, Chan 6, Reyes 6, Tang 2, Ibanes 2, Telan 2, Alfad 1, Dulay 1.
Quarterscores: 20-18, 41-38, 62-57, 84-84, 95-90
STA. Lucia Realty is on a mission and will pounce on any opportunity that comes its way.
Like Wednesday, when the Realtors took advantage of Rain or Shine’s manpower shortage to carve out a 95-90 overtime victory and grab a share of the early lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.
Kelly Williams flashed his MVP form of two seasons ago with 28 points, 14 rebounds and six assists while Joseph Yeo and Bitoy Omolon provided plenty of help in the Realtors’ decisive surge in the extension as Sta. Lucia started a conference at 2-0 for the first time in three conferences, or since the 2008 Fiesta.
The Elasto Painters sorely missed the services of Sol Mercado, who was struck by food poisoning the night before, and the injured Mike Hrabak as they absorbed their second loss in as many games.
(Photo source: PBA.ph)
“I’m happy we came out winners,” said Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez, whose team opened its bid to get back the crown it won in the 2007-08 season with a 95-76 thrashing of Coca-Cola last Friday.
“Our players started flat because they probably thought without Mercado and Hrabak we can win the game handily,” he added. “But credit Rain or Shine. They played their game tonight, even without those two, especially Mercado.”
Rain or Shine did dish out a valiant fight, but fell way short in overtime where it was held to a solitary field goal. It was the Asian Coatings franchise’s second loss, dropping it in the company of San Miguel Beer, Coca-Cola and Smart Gilas.
For naught went the 19 points by Ryan Arana and the 18 and team-high nine rebounds by Gabe Norwood, whose fallaway in the last three seconds of regulation pegged an 84-all count. Last year’s Rookie of the Year also had a game-high seven turnovers.
“Loss is on my shoulders tho. 7 TOs wont help any team win a close,” Norwood said on his Twitter page.
The touch that propped Rain or Shine back from a 48-59 deficit and enabled it to engage Sta. Lucia through four deadlocks and eight lead changes in the fourth quarter alone was virtually absent in overtime as the Elasto Painters went 1-for-9 from the field.
The Realtors were quick to capitalize, surging to a 92-86 spread that proved solid enough to hold up in the last 1:34.
Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra’s Mark Caguioa is a doubtful starter in Friday’s game after his left knee swelled up. He was taken to the hospital for treatment Wednesday.
Caguioa, Best Player of the Conference in the Kings’ title romp in the 2006-07 edition of the tournament, missed all of last season for surgery on both of his knees.
Although not yet fully in game shape, Caguioa seems on his way to recovering his old fiery form, averaging 12.5 points in Ginebra’s first two games in the tournament.
The Kings are already set to play at least another game minus Eric Menk, who has an injured little toe. (NC)
The scores:
Sta. Lucia 95 - Williams 28, Espinas 13, Daa 12, Omolon 12, Yeo 11, Reyes 8, Aquino 4, Jaime 2, Larong 2, Misolas 2, Urbiztondo 1, Pacana 0.
Rain or Shine 90 - Arana 19, Norwood 18, Cruz 14, Laure 11, Arellano 8, Chan 6, Reyes 6, Tang 2, Ibanes 2, Telan 2, Alfad 1, Dulay 1.
Quarterscores: 20-18, 41-38, 62-57, 84-84, 95-90
Talk 'N Text takes Giles-less Smart Gilas to school
source: gmanews.tv
Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes finally scored one over Serbian counterpart Rajko Toroman.
The Tropang Texters got a big break in the form of a limited playing time for CJ Giles as they routed the RP-Smart Gilas team, 103-70, for a share of the lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Astrodome Wednesday.
The game marked the second straight time Talk ‘N Text held an opponent below 80 points after beating Rain or Shine in its opening match (85-76).
The Tropang Texters limited the Nationals to a paltry 35 percent shooting going 28-of-80 from the field.
The win evened things up for Reyes and Toroman, the mentor of the RP-Smart Gilas team, who initially engaged each other during the 2007 FIBA-Asia men’s basketball championship in Tokushima, Japan.
(Photo source: PBA.ph)
Toroman, then calling the shots for Iran, beat Reyes and the San Miguel-RP team, 75-69, in the opening game of the meet serving as qualifier for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
But for Reyes, everything is water under the bridge now, stressing the game with the Gilas squad is the Tropang Texters’ way of helping the national team’s cause.
“The best way we can help this team is to play hard," said Reyes. “Largely we were able to execute our game plan, which was to disrupt their offense. We devised a couple of different defenses because we know Gilas executes well on offense."
The 33-point victory was likewise the biggest in almost five months, or since Ginebra trampled Rain or Shine, 114-71, last May 24.
Smart-Gilas dropped its second straight game, largely due to Giles seeing action for merely five minutes. The player being groomed for naturalization got news from his mother before the game that his four-year-old son had been diagnosed with a life-threatening blood disorder.
“We are not 30 points better if Giles was there," said Reyes.
For the second straight game, Mac-Mac Cardona led the Texters in scoring. He scattered 16 points while Jimmy Alapag added 14. Jared Dillinger and Jason Castro each added 10 while Ali Peek collected a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Mark Barroca finished with 16 points and JV Casio and Japeth Aguilar had 14 apiece. Aguilar also added 14 rebounds and two blocks but committed seven turnovers.
Smart Gilas led only once throughout the one-sided contest, 3-2. But big TNT runs in the second and third quarters took the fight out from the Nationals, who are being fine-tuned to compete for a slot in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
A 17-4 assault from a 27-26 count in the second period and then a 19-4 blast at the start of the third gave the Texters a 65-40 advantage with 6:54 left.
The scores:
Talk N' Text 103 - Cardona 16, Alapag 14, Dillinger 12, Castro 12, Peek 10, De Ocampo R. 9, De Ocampo Y. 8, Belasco 7, Escobal 5, Isip 4, Carey 4, Ritualo 2.
Smart Gilas 70 - Barroca 16, Casio 14, Aguilar 14, Barracael 8, Cawaling 7, Ramos 5, Ababou 3, Jazul 2, Ballesteros 1, Giles 0.
Quarterscores: 19-17, 46-36, 76-54, 103-70.
Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes finally scored one over Serbian counterpart Rajko Toroman.
The Tropang Texters got a big break in the form of a limited playing time for CJ Giles as they routed the RP-Smart Gilas team, 103-70, for a share of the lead in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Astrodome Wednesday.
The game marked the second straight time Talk ‘N Text held an opponent below 80 points after beating Rain or Shine in its opening match (85-76).
The Tropang Texters limited the Nationals to a paltry 35 percent shooting going 28-of-80 from the field.
The win evened things up for Reyes and Toroman, the mentor of the RP-Smart Gilas team, who initially engaged each other during the 2007 FIBA-Asia men’s basketball championship in Tokushima, Japan.
(Photo source: PBA.ph)
Toroman, then calling the shots for Iran, beat Reyes and the San Miguel-RP team, 75-69, in the opening game of the meet serving as qualifier for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
But for Reyes, everything is water under the bridge now, stressing the game with the Gilas squad is the Tropang Texters’ way of helping the national team’s cause.
“The best way we can help this team is to play hard," said Reyes. “Largely we were able to execute our game plan, which was to disrupt their offense. We devised a couple of different defenses because we know Gilas executes well on offense."
The 33-point victory was likewise the biggest in almost five months, or since Ginebra trampled Rain or Shine, 114-71, last May 24.
Smart-Gilas dropped its second straight game, largely due to Giles seeing action for merely five minutes. The player being groomed for naturalization got news from his mother before the game that his four-year-old son had been diagnosed with a life-threatening blood disorder.
“We are not 30 points better if Giles was there," said Reyes.
For the second straight game, Mac-Mac Cardona led the Texters in scoring. He scattered 16 points while Jimmy Alapag added 14. Jared Dillinger and Jason Castro each added 10 while Ali Peek collected a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Mark Barroca finished with 16 points and JV Casio and Japeth Aguilar had 14 apiece. Aguilar also added 14 rebounds and two blocks but committed seven turnovers.
Smart Gilas led only once throughout the one-sided contest, 3-2. But big TNT runs in the second and third quarters took the fight out from the Nationals, who are being fine-tuned to compete for a slot in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
A 17-4 assault from a 27-26 count in the second period and then a 19-4 blast at the start of the third gave the Texters a 65-40 advantage with 6:54 left.
The scores:
Talk N' Text 103 - Cardona 16, Alapag 14, Dillinger 12, Castro 12, Peek 10, De Ocampo R. 9, De Ocampo Y. 8, Belasco 7, Escobal 5, Isip 4, Carey 4, Ritualo 2.
Smart Gilas 70 - Barroca 16, Casio 14, Aguilar 14, Barracael 8, Cawaling 7, Ramos 5, Ababou 3, Jazul 2, Ballesteros 1, Giles 0.
Quarterscores: 19-17, 46-36, 76-54, 103-70.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Kings exceeding Uichico's early expectations
Hearing it from coach Jong Ucihico, his Ginebra team is still a long way off from the one he envisions it to be.
"Hopefully, we can keep on improving, dahil talagang medyo kapaan pa kami sa isa't-isa," said Uichico.
Yet the Kings are proving Uichico wrong early in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup, playing like a well-oiled machine for the most part against quality opposition in their first two games for a share of the early lead at the Araneta Coliseum.
Ginebra downed opening-day winner Purefoods 95-87 last Sunday after debuting with a 98-86 conquest of Fiesta Cup finals tormentor San Miguel Beer and this pleased Uichico the most since he didn't really know what to expect in those two games.
"We got new players and we wanted some more adjustment period," he explained. "But it's good we have our veterans na medyo adjusted na sa system."
Continuing to build team chemistry remains a priority, however, since the Kings are merely halfway through their tough opening assignments.
The winner of the tournament's 2004-05 and 06-07 editions faces dangerous guest team Smart Gilas on Friday before battling last year's runner-up Alaska on Sunday. After a nearly two-break, they battle Barako Bull on Nov. 6.
"Nakalusot kami sa dalawa pero we have two strong games again ahead," noted Uichico. "Medyo mabigat-bigat 'yung Smart Gilas and Alaska, so hopefully we can get past those two games also."
The period before those matches should be put to good use, based on the Purefoods game.
Last year's MVP Jayjay Helterbrand scored 19 points and issued nine assists to lead three other Ginebra players who notched at least 10 points, including Willy Wilson's career-high 16 points.
James Yap finished with a game-high 21 points while Peter June Simon added 16 and Roger Yap 13 for the Giants in a tight game that featured 13 lead changes and 10 deadlocks. But when it came to the crunch, the Kings simply had more in their arsenal.
Ronald Tubid capped a 14-point, six-rebound, two-steal performance with five points in a decisive 11-3 run that gave the Kings a safe nine-point lead from a 79-78 count.
It was a big morale-booster for Ginebra, which refused to buckle under pressure after squandering a 13-point third quarter lead.
The count was tied at 78-all before Billy Mamaril canned in a charity then Tubid struck with his five-point binge pushing the Kings ahead at 84-78 with 2:16 left to play.
"That shouldn't have happened, pero nand'yan na 'yan at mabuti na lang naka-recover kami," said Uichico.
"It's good we ran a streak, offensively, at the right time to get the spread," he added. "When we got that spread in the fourth quarter medyo nakahinga na, so we were able to maintain it." Noli Cortez - Malaya Online Edition
"Hopefully, we can keep on improving, dahil talagang medyo kapaan pa kami sa isa't-isa," said Uichico.
Yet the Kings are proving Uichico wrong early in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup, playing like a well-oiled machine for the most part against quality opposition in their first two games for a share of the early lead at the Araneta Coliseum.
Ginebra downed opening-day winner Purefoods 95-87 last Sunday after debuting with a 98-86 conquest of Fiesta Cup finals tormentor San Miguel Beer and this pleased Uichico the most since he didn't really know what to expect in those two games.
"We got new players and we wanted some more adjustment period," he explained. "But it's good we have our veterans na medyo adjusted na sa system."
Continuing to build team chemistry remains a priority, however, since the Kings are merely halfway through their tough opening assignments.
The winner of the tournament's 2004-05 and 06-07 editions faces dangerous guest team Smart Gilas on Friday before battling last year's runner-up Alaska on Sunday. After a nearly two-break, they battle Barako Bull on Nov. 6.
"Nakalusot kami sa dalawa pero we have two strong games again ahead," noted Uichico. "Medyo mabigat-bigat 'yung Smart Gilas and Alaska, so hopefully we can get past those two games also."
The period before those matches should be put to good use, based on the Purefoods game.
Last year's MVP Jayjay Helterbrand scored 19 points and issued nine assists to lead three other Ginebra players who notched at least 10 points, including Willy Wilson's career-high 16 points.
James Yap finished with a game-high 21 points while Peter June Simon added 16 and Roger Yap 13 for the Giants in a tight game that featured 13 lead changes and 10 deadlocks. But when it came to the crunch, the Kings simply had more in their arsenal.
Ronald Tubid capped a 14-point, six-rebound, two-steal performance with five points in a decisive 11-3 run that gave the Kings a safe nine-point lead from a 79-78 count.
It was a big morale-booster for Ginebra, which refused to buckle under pressure after squandering a 13-point third quarter lead.
The count was tied at 78-all before Billy Mamaril canned in a charity then Tubid struck with his five-point binge pushing the Kings ahead at 84-78 with 2:16 left to play.
"That shouldn't have happened, pero nand'yan na 'yan at mabuti na lang naka-recover kami," said Uichico.
"It's good we ran a streak, offensively, at the right time to get the spread," he added. "When we got that spread in the fourth quarter medyo nakahinga na, so we were able to maintain it." Noli Cortez - Malaya Online Edition
Burger King team ready to let go of Arboleda?
source: gmanews.tv
After losing controversial top overall pick Japeth Aguilar, Burger King’s title campaign in the PBA hit a snag anew following the suspension of veteran guard Wynne Arboleda.
But the Whopper management entertains no plans of appealing the case of its player, who has been banned by the PBA for the rest of the 2009-2010 season for assaulting a fan during Burger King’s game with Smart Gilas last Friday.
“He has to do it (appeal the suspension) on his own," Burger King team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said. “Burger King, being a global organization, won’t condone such actions. Pero hindi namin inaalis yung karapatan na yun kay Wynne so if he will appeal his case to Commissioner (Sonny) Barrios, he has to do it on his personal capacity."
Arboleda, the only original member of the Lina Group franchise, might also find himself playing for another team as Burger King sent a proposal to Barako Bull coach Leo Isaac for a possible trade even before his harsh penalty was handed down by Barrios.
“There was a proposal," Isaac confirmed to GMANews.TV. “Boss Lito (Alvarez) told me that baka ma-suspend si Wynne ng ilang games so baka daw maging interested ako. I told him, I’m going to bring this up to the management, parang magiging management to management na usapan nila."
“But since may decision na yung PBA to ban him for the rest of the season, I don’t think this (possible trade) will push through," he added.
Arboleda, who happens to be the son-in-law of the majority owner of Burger King’s PBA franchise, has been banned from playing the remainder of the 2009-2010 season that’s only on its second week.
Alvarez said even if Arboleda got a lighter penalty from the Commissioner’s office, Burger King would still impose its own sanction on the cager.
“Kung halimbawa nga na (up to the) end of the eliminations lang yung binigay sa kanya na suspension, ako mismo as team manager would impose my own suspension on my player," said Alvarez.
“I’ve been thinking nga at that time na huwag na rin siyang palaruin talaga sa team, that is why I brought the possibility of trading Wynne even before he was banned by the PBA. I brought the matter to (Burger King) coach Yeng Guiao," added Alvarez.
But Alvarez said Guiao has requested him to see what happens in their next three games first, whether the remaining guards – Chico Lanete, newly-acquired Ronjay Buenafe and Egay Billones – can fill in the void left by the veteran quarterback.
After losing controversial top overall pick Japeth Aguilar, Burger King’s title campaign in the PBA hit a snag anew following the suspension of veteran guard Wynne Arboleda.
But the Whopper management entertains no plans of appealing the case of its player, who has been banned by the PBA for the rest of the 2009-2010 season for assaulting a fan during Burger King’s game with Smart Gilas last Friday.
“He has to do it (appeal the suspension) on his own," Burger King team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said. “Burger King, being a global organization, won’t condone such actions. Pero hindi namin inaalis yung karapatan na yun kay Wynne so if he will appeal his case to Commissioner (Sonny) Barrios, he has to do it on his personal capacity."
Arboleda, the only original member of the Lina Group franchise, might also find himself playing for another team as Burger King sent a proposal to Barako Bull coach Leo Isaac for a possible trade even before his harsh penalty was handed down by Barrios.
“There was a proposal," Isaac confirmed to GMANews.TV. “Boss Lito (Alvarez) told me that baka ma-suspend si Wynne ng ilang games so baka daw maging interested ako. I told him, I’m going to bring this up to the management, parang magiging management to management na usapan nila."
“But since may decision na yung PBA to ban him for the rest of the season, I don’t think this (possible trade) will push through," he added.
Arboleda, who happens to be the son-in-law of the majority owner of Burger King’s PBA franchise, has been banned from playing the remainder of the 2009-2010 season that’s only on its second week.
Alvarez said even if Arboleda got a lighter penalty from the Commissioner’s office, Burger King would still impose its own sanction on the cager.
“Kung halimbawa nga na (up to the) end of the eliminations lang yung binigay sa kanya na suspension, ako mismo as team manager would impose my own suspension on my player," said Alvarez.
“I’ve been thinking nga at that time na huwag na rin siyang palaruin talaga sa team, that is why I brought the possibility of trading Wynne even before he was banned by the PBA. I brought the matter to (Burger King) coach Yeng Guiao," added Alvarez.
But Alvarez said Guiao has requested him to see what happens in their next three games first, whether the remaining guards – Chico Lanete, newly-acquired Ronjay Buenafe and Egay Billones – can fill in the void left by the veteran quarterback.
Ginebra, Alaska flex muscles
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
The PBA’s 35th season is just a week old but Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk have already made an impact by posting two convincing wins in the KFC Philippine Cup.
The Aces and the Kings, both runners-up in the previous two conferences, roared past rivals on opening week, including a huge victory each over fancied San Miguel Beer, to stay on top of the standings.
Alaska opened its campaign with a resounding 99-83 win against the rebuilding Barako Bull last Wednesday where former two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Willie Miller collected his third career triple-double with 19 points 11 rebounds and 12 assists.
The Aces then stunned the Beermen, 85-74, with Miller delivering another solid game with 25 points in Panabo City.
Ginebra, on the other hand, welcomed the return of Mark Caguioa with a 98-86 triumph against San Miguel.
The 6-foot Caguioa, who was sidelined last season due to tendonitis, fired 15 of his 17 points in the third quarter in his first game back, while Eric Menk had 18 points and nine rebounds and reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand added 17, seven boards and nine assists.
With Menk out in their second game, the Kings turned to Helterbrand, who scored 19 points with five rebounds and nine assists in their 95-85 win versus the Purefoods Giants. Willy Wilson came off the bench to add 16 points.
“We just hope that we keep on improving,” said Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico following his team’s victory over Purefoods.
Alaska coach Tim Cone said it’s too early to tell or use their two wins as a gauge, saying: “Not much to crow about. Beat an undermanned Barako Bull team and ‘hangover’ SMB squad but certainly better than 0-2. Tough weekend coming up for us, it will be telling.”
While Alaska opted to keep its team intact – at least for this conference – Ginebra made some adjustment with its roster, especially on their frontcourt rotation.
The Kings got in a three-team trade Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, and Celino Cruz from Purefoods, while the Aces decided to stick with Miller, who admitted that he’s happy that he’s still with Alaska despite off-season rumors that he will be traded to another team.
Despite losing forward Rafi Reavis and guard Paul Artadi in the trade, the arrival of Villanueva and Alvarez has solidified the Kings’ frontline rotation,
while Cruz has been a steady playmaker so far as a back-up to Helterbrand.
But their mettle will put to test when they clash on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Also making their presence felt are defending champion Talk ’N Text, which downed Rain or Shine, 85-76, and 2008 Philippine Cup champion Sta. Lucia Realty, which won against Coca-Cola (95-76).
Burger King and Barako Bull have also shown their resolve by bouncing back after dropping their opening game assignments.
After losing to the Giants, 80-93, the Whopper turned back the Smart-Gilas RP Team, 115-105, while the Energy Boosters rebounded from their loss to the Aces with an 81-73 win over the Tigers last Sunday at the Big Dome.
The PBA’s 35th season is just a week old but Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk have already made an impact by posting two convincing wins in the KFC Philippine Cup.
The Aces and the Kings, both runners-up in the previous two conferences, roared past rivals on opening week, including a huge victory each over fancied San Miguel Beer, to stay on top of the standings.
Alaska opened its campaign with a resounding 99-83 win against the rebuilding Barako Bull last Wednesday where former two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Willie Miller collected his third career triple-double with 19 points 11 rebounds and 12 assists.
The Aces then stunned the Beermen, 85-74, with Miller delivering another solid game with 25 points in Panabo City.
Ginebra, on the other hand, welcomed the return of Mark Caguioa with a 98-86 triumph against San Miguel.
The 6-foot Caguioa, who was sidelined last season due to tendonitis, fired 15 of his 17 points in the third quarter in his first game back, while Eric Menk had 18 points and nine rebounds and reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand added 17, seven boards and nine assists.
With Menk out in their second game, the Kings turned to Helterbrand, who scored 19 points with five rebounds and nine assists in their 95-85 win versus the Purefoods Giants. Willy Wilson came off the bench to add 16 points.
“We just hope that we keep on improving,” said Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico following his team’s victory over Purefoods.
Alaska coach Tim Cone said it’s too early to tell or use their two wins as a gauge, saying: “Not much to crow about. Beat an undermanned Barako Bull team and ‘hangover’ SMB squad but certainly better than 0-2. Tough weekend coming up for us, it will be telling.”
While Alaska opted to keep its team intact – at least for this conference – Ginebra made some adjustment with its roster, especially on their frontcourt rotation.
The Kings got in a three-team trade Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, and Celino Cruz from Purefoods, while the Aces decided to stick with Miller, who admitted that he’s happy that he’s still with Alaska despite off-season rumors that he will be traded to another team.
Despite losing forward Rafi Reavis and guard Paul Artadi in the trade, the arrival of Villanueva and Alvarez has solidified the Kings’ frontline rotation,
while Cruz has been a steady playmaker so far as a back-up to Helterbrand.
But their mettle will put to test when they clash on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Also making their presence felt are defending champion Talk ’N Text, which downed Rain or Shine, 85-76, and 2008 Philippine Cup champion Sta. Lucia Realty, which won against Coca-Cola (95-76).
Burger King and Barako Bull have also shown their resolve by bouncing back after dropping their opening game assignments.
After losing to the Giants, 80-93, the Whopper turned back the Smart-Gilas RP Team, 115-105, while the Energy Boosters rebounded from their loss to the Aces with an 81-73 win over the Tigers last Sunday at the Big Dome.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
GINEBRA TOPPLES PUREFOODS, GRABS PIECE OF LEAD
source pba.ph
Sun, 10/18/2009 - 22:45 — junior
Ronald Tubid provided the spark coming off the bench in the last three minutes as Barangay Ginebra upended Purefoods, 95-87, to gain a share of early lead with Alaska Milk in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Tubid pumped in a trey then scored on a drive following his own steal, triggering a decisive 11-3 run that keyed the Kings' second win following a triumphant debut against the San Miguel Beermen Wednesday.
Jayjay Helterbrand put in team highs of 19 points and nine assists while Willy Wilson came through with a career-best of 16 points as the Kings pulled abreast with the Aces who earlier won their first two matches in the all-Filipino tourney against the Barako Bull Energy Boosters and the Beermen.
Mark Caguioa was limited to eight points after scattering 17 points Wednesday -- his return from a one-year layoff.
"Both team struggled tonight. It's good we ran a streak at the right time," said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.
"It's a big back-to-back wins for us. To be honest, medyo takot ako in our first two games. We've got new players at dalawang malakas agad ang kalaban namin. We wanted sana na maka-adjust muna sa system namin ang mga new players namin," Uichico also said.
"The veterans did a good job, nakalusot kami against San Miguel and Purefoods."
The Kings take a four-day rest before facing another tough back-to-back games against Smart Gilas Friday and Alaska Sunday.
"Hopefully, we can pick up from tonight's game, we continue to improve and get past Smart Gilas and Alaska. Pero siguradong mahirap na laban yon," said Uichico.
The Giants, winners over the Burger King Whoppers in the season opener, provided a tough battle, fighting the Kings through 10 deadlocks and 13 lead changes.
James Yap fired 21 points, including a fastbreak layup giving Purefoods its last taste of the lead at 76-74.
The count was tied at 78-all before Billy Mamaril canned in a charity then Tubid struck with his five-point binge pushing the Kings ahead at 84-78 with 2:16 left to play.
Biboy Simon and Helterbrand traded a triple each in the ensuing plays as the Kings eventually settled the outcome of the game, getting the two-game roll after a runner-up finish in the most recent Fiesta Conference.
Enrico Villanueva started at power forward spot against his former team, coming through with 10 points, three rebounds and one assists in 25 minutes of play.
Rich Alvarez, another Purefoods player, was 0-of-2 from the field.
Eric Menk sat out the game due to a fractured small toe on left foot. (SB)
The scores:
Ginebra 95 - Helterbrand 19, Wilson 16, Tubid 14, Villanueva 10, Mamaril 9, Salvacion 9, Caguioa 8, Intal 5, Baguio 4, Cruz 1, Alvarez 0.
Purefoods 87 - Yap J. 21, Simon 16, Yap R. 13, Maierhofer 9, Artadi 8, Pingris 8, Raymundo 6, Timberlake 3, Allado 2, Reavis 1, Canaleta 0.
Quarterscores: 23-22, 38-39, 66-61, 95-87
Sun, 10/18/2009 - 22:45 — junior
Ronald Tubid provided the spark coming off the bench in the last three minutes as Barangay Ginebra upended Purefoods, 95-87, to gain a share of early lead with Alaska Milk in the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Tubid pumped in a trey then scored on a drive following his own steal, triggering a decisive 11-3 run that keyed the Kings' second win following a triumphant debut against the San Miguel Beermen Wednesday.
Jayjay Helterbrand put in team highs of 19 points and nine assists while Willy Wilson came through with a career-best of 16 points as the Kings pulled abreast with the Aces who earlier won their first two matches in the all-Filipino tourney against the Barako Bull Energy Boosters and the Beermen.
Mark Caguioa was limited to eight points after scattering 17 points Wednesday -- his return from a one-year layoff.
"Both team struggled tonight. It's good we ran a streak at the right time," said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.
"It's a big back-to-back wins for us. To be honest, medyo takot ako in our first two games. We've got new players at dalawang malakas agad ang kalaban namin. We wanted sana na maka-adjust muna sa system namin ang mga new players namin," Uichico also said.
"The veterans did a good job, nakalusot kami against San Miguel and Purefoods."
The Kings take a four-day rest before facing another tough back-to-back games against Smart Gilas Friday and Alaska Sunday.
"Hopefully, we can pick up from tonight's game, we continue to improve and get past Smart Gilas and Alaska. Pero siguradong mahirap na laban yon," said Uichico.
The Giants, winners over the Burger King Whoppers in the season opener, provided a tough battle, fighting the Kings through 10 deadlocks and 13 lead changes.
James Yap fired 21 points, including a fastbreak layup giving Purefoods its last taste of the lead at 76-74.
The count was tied at 78-all before Billy Mamaril canned in a charity then Tubid struck with his five-point binge pushing the Kings ahead at 84-78 with 2:16 left to play.
Biboy Simon and Helterbrand traded a triple each in the ensuing plays as the Kings eventually settled the outcome of the game, getting the two-game roll after a runner-up finish in the most recent Fiesta Conference.
Enrico Villanueva started at power forward spot against his former team, coming through with 10 points, three rebounds and one assists in 25 minutes of play.
Rich Alvarez, another Purefoods player, was 0-of-2 from the field.
Eric Menk sat out the game due to a fractured small toe on left foot. (SB)
The scores:
Ginebra 95 - Helterbrand 19, Wilson 16, Tubid 14, Villanueva 10, Mamaril 9, Salvacion 9, Caguioa 8, Intal 5, Baguio 4, Cruz 1, Alvarez 0.
Purefoods 87 - Yap J. 21, Simon 16, Yap R. 13, Maierhofer 9, Artadi 8, Pingris 8, Raymundo 6, Timberlake 3, Allado 2, Reavis 1, Canaleta 0.
Quarterscores: 23-22, 38-39, 66-61, 95-87
Energy Boosters zap Coca-Cola Tigers
source:gmanews.tv
The late PBA chairman Tony Chua may be smiling from above.
His underrated, much-maligned Barako Bull team has just scored the first upset of the KFC-Philippine Cup, pulling off a come-from-behind 81-73 win over Coca-Cola Sunday night at the Araneta Coliseum.
Magnum Membrere stood at the forefront of the Energy Boosters’ stunning win by firing 6-of-7 from the field to lead the team in scoring with 14 points.
His three-pointer with 2:18 to go put Barako Bull in front, 76-70.
Until his demise last month at the height of tropical storm “Ondoy," Chua was Barako Bull’s representative to the PBA Board and acted as team manager. He was also chairman of the league in 2007.
“I just told the guys that I am tired of losing so we have to win this one," said Membrere, who, along with Alex Crisano and Leo Najorda, is the remaining player from last year’s core.
“It’s a new group composed of many young players and some veterans," said coach Leo Isaac. “And all of them wanted to be recognized."
The win was only the third for Isaac since taking over the coaching chore from Yeng Guiao at the start of the Fiesta Conference last season.
For the team, now with an even 1-1 card, it was the first win since March 22 when it battled back from a 24-point deficit in the fourth quarter to turn back heavy-favorite Talk `N Text, 135-133.
The Energy Boosters trailed by as many as 28-40 in the second quarter following a Marvin Cruz jumper, but they neither blinked nor got intimidated in the face of the Tigers’ offensive onslaught.
They eventually caught up with the Tigers at 70-70 and then got the lead for good following a three-pointer by rookie Ogie Menor to make it 73-70 with 3:02 remaining.
Dennis Espino put Coca-Cola within 76-72 with a long jumper before Chad Alonzo had a split, and Espino shoved the Tigers to within 77-73 off his own split from the line.
But Jojo Duncil and Don Belano each converted their pair of charities at the other end to seal the win for Barako Bull.
Coca-Cola lost Asi Taulava after the 2003 MVP suffered a right ankle injury. Taulava left the coliseum limping with the game barely reaching its halfway mark. The Tigers lost promising Larry Rodriguez too late in the game because of a foot injury.
Espino led Coca-Cola with 15 points and seven rebounds while Norman Gonzales had 12 points. Rodriguez played for 34 minutes and wound up with 10 points and 18 rebounds, 10 of them offensive.
The scores
Barako Bull 81 -- Membrere 14, Duncil 11, Alonzo 10, Najorda 9, Aljamal 8, Crisano 7, Belano 7, Menor 6, Lao 5, Viray 2, Dimaunahan 2, Faundo 0.
Coke 73 -- Espino 15, Gonzales N. 12, Cruz 11, Rodriguez 10, Caagnot 10, Calimag 6, Ross 3, Bono 2, Catli 2, Taulava 2, Gonzales W. 0.
Quarterscores: 19-22, 41-45, 55-58, 81-73
The late PBA chairman Tony Chua may be smiling from above.
His underrated, much-maligned Barako Bull team has just scored the first upset of the KFC-Philippine Cup, pulling off a come-from-behind 81-73 win over Coca-Cola Sunday night at the Araneta Coliseum.
Magnum Membrere stood at the forefront of the Energy Boosters’ stunning win by firing 6-of-7 from the field to lead the team in scoring with 14 points.
His three-pointer with 2:18 to go put Barako Bull in front, 76-70.
Until his demise last month at the height of tropical storm “Ondoy," Chua was Barako Bull’s representative to the PBA Board and acted as team manager. He was also chairman of the league in 2007.
“I just told the guys that I am tired of losing so we have to win this one," said Membrere, who, along with Alex Crisano and Leo Najorda, is the remaining player from last year’s core.
“It’s a new group composed of many young players and some veterans," said coach Leo Isaac. “And all of them wanted to be recognized."
The win was only the third for Isaac since taking over the coaching chore from Yeng Guiao at the start of the Fiesta Conference last season.
For the team, now with an even 1-1 card, it was the first win since March 22 when it battled back from a 24-point deficit in the fourth quarter to turn back heavy-favorite Talk `N Text, 135-133.
The Energy Boosters trailed by as many as 28-40 in the second quarter following a Marvin Cruz jumper, but they neither blinked nor got intimidated in the face of the Tigers’ offensive onslaught.
They eventually caught up with the Tigers at 70-70 and then got the lead for good following a three-pointer by rookie Ogie Menor to make it 73-70 with 3:02 remaining.
Dennis Espino put Coca-Cola within 76-72 with a long jumper before Chad Alonzo had a split, and Espino shoved the Tigers to within 77-73 off his own split from the line.
But Jojo Duncil and Don Belano each converted their pair of charities at the other end to seal the win for Barako Bull.
Coca-Cola lost Asi Taulava after the 2003 MVP suffered a right ankle injury. Taulava left the coliseum limping with the game barely reaching its halfway mark. The Tigers lost promising Larry Rodriguez too late in the game because of a foot injury.
Espino led Coca-Cola with 15 points and seven rebounds while Norman Gonzales had 12 points. Rodriguez played for 34 minutes and wound up with 10 points and 18 rebounds, 10 of them offensive.
The scores
Barako Bull 81 -- Membrere 14, Duncil 11, Alonzo 10, Najorda 9, Aljamal 8, Crisano 7, Belano 7, Menor 6, Lao 5, Viray 2, Dimaunahan 2, Faundo 0.
Coke 73 -- Espino 15, Gonzales N. 12, Cruz 11, Rodriguez 10, Caagnot 10, Calimag 6, Ross 3, Bono 2, Catli 2, Taulava 2, Gonzales W. 0.
Quarterscores: 19-22, 41-45, 55-58, 81-73
Alaska capitalizes on SMB's poor shooting to earn 2nd win
source: gmanews.tv
Alaska took advantage of San Miguel’s poor first half shooting then leaned on Willie Miller and LA Tenorio’s two big three-pointers to escape with an 85-74 triumph Saturday night at the Panabo City Multipurpose Tourism, Cultural and Sports Center in Davao.
Coming off a triple-double effort in the Aces’ 99-83 win over Barako Bull, Miller had another monster game for the Aces with 25 points and nine rebounds.
His crucial trey in the final four minutes sparked a short but telling 6-0 Alaska run for a 75-68 lead that all but sealed the outcome of the game.
Their second straight win pushed the Aces in the early lead of the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup. The Beermen fell to 0-2 overall and at the bottom of the 11-team field.
Shooting just 28 percent in the first half to trail by 10, the Beermen came back strong in the final two quarters behind Dorian Peña and Arwind Santos’ exploits.
A Santos jumper with 5:45 to go had the Beermen threatening at 69-68.
But then Miller buried a three-pointer and Tenorio followed it up with another bomb from downtown, enabling the Aces to up the lead to seven and take control of the game.
Tenorio was the other Aces in double figures with 18 markers.
Santos finished with 15 points together with Dondon Hontiveros to lead the way for the still winless Beermen.
Scores:
Alaska 85 – Miller 25, Tenorio 18, Hugnatan 8, Cariaso 7, Fonacier 6, DeVance 6, Ferriols 6, Borboran 5, De La Cruz 2, Burtscher 0.
San Miguel 74 – Hontiveros 15, Santos 15, Pena 13, Pennisi 9, Villanueva 5, Racela 5, Tugade 4, Custodio 2, Miranda 0, Eman 0, Cortez 0.
Quarter scores: 19-12, 38-28, 64-53, 85-74.
Alaska took advantage of San Miguel’s poor first half shooting then leaned on Willie Miller and LA Tenorio’s two big three-pointers to escape with an 85-74 triumph Saturday night at the Panabo City Multipurpose Tourism, Cultural and Sports Center in Davao.
Coming off a triple-double effort in the Aces’ 99-83 win over Barako Bull, Miller had another monster game for the Aces with 25 points and nine rebounds.
His crucial trey in the final four minutes sparked a short but telling 6-0 Alaska run for a 75-68 lead that all but sealed the outcome of the game.
Their second straight win pushed the Aces in the early lead of the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup. The Beermen fell to 0-2 overall and at the bottom of the 11-team field.
Shooting just 28 percent in the first half to trail by 10, the Beermen came back strong in the final two quarters behind Dorian Peña and Arwind Santos’ exploits.
A Santos jumper with 5:45 to go had the Beermen threatening at 69-68.
But then Miller buried a three-pointer and Tenorio followed it up with another bomb from downtown, enabling the Aces to up the lead to seven and take control of the game.
Tenorio was the other Aces in double figures with 18 markers.
Santos finished with 15 points together with Dondon Hontiveros to lead the way for the still winless Beermen.
Scores:
Alaska 85 – Miller 25, Tenorio 18, Hugnatan 8, Cariaso 7, Fonacier 6, DeVance 6, Ferriols 6, Borboran 5, De La Cruz 2, Burtscher 0.
San Miguel 74 – Hontiveros 15, Santos 15, Pena 13, Pennisi 9, Villanueva 5, Racela 5, Tugade 4, Custodio 2, Miranda 0, Eman 0, Cortez 0.
Quarter scores: 19-12, 38-28, 64-53, 85-74.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Al-Hussaini signs up with Olympics-seeking RP Smart Gilas
source: gmanews.tv
The RP-Smart Gilas team hooked up another rising amateur player in Ateneo ace Rabeh Al-Hussaini, who agreed to sign up with the squad being geared for a shot at the 2012 London Olympics.
Al-Hussaini came to terms with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the cage body responsible for the formation of the Gilas team, late Wednesday.
Terms of the deal were not immediately divulged, but SBP executive director Noli Eala said the Ateneo star center had agreed to a two-year deal lasting up to 2011.
“The SBP is happy to announce that Rabeh Al-Hussaini has accepted our offer for him to play for the Smart Gilas Pilipinas national team commencing immediately," said Eala in a statement.
Al-Hussaini’s signing up came just a two days after the Gilas team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman re-acquired the services of controversial big man Japeth Aguilar.
A former UAAP Most Valuable Player (MVP), Al-Hussaini is fresh from steering the Ateneo Blue Eagles to a back-to-back men’s basketball titles at the expense of the University of the East Red Warriors. The half-brother of Burger King stalwart Carlo Sharma was adjudged Finals MVP of the series.
“We are excited and proud to have Rabeh in Smart Gilas. He is definitely a major addition to the team and will play a vital role in our campaign towards making the London Olympics," Eala said.
“We thank the family of Rabeh, his friends and advisers and the Ateneo community for the trust and support they have reposed up the SBP and Smart Gilas," he added.
The RP-Smart Gilas team hooked up another rising amateur player in Ateneo ace Rabeh Al-Hussaini, who agreed to sign up with the squad being geared for a shot at the 2012 London Olympics.
Al-Hussaini came to terms with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the cage body responsible for the formation of the Gilas team, late Wednesday.
Terms of the deal were not immediately divulged, but SBP executive director Noli Eala said the Ateneo star center had agreed to a two-year deal lasting up to 2011.
“The SBP is happy to announce that Rabeh Al-Hussaini has accepted our offer for him to play for the Smart Gilas Pilipinas national team commencing immediately," said Eala in a statement.
Al-Hussaini’s signing up came just a two days after the Gilas team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman re-acquired the services of controversial big man Japeth Aguilar.
A former UAAP Most Valuable Player (MVP), Al-Hussaini is fresh from steering the Ateneo Blue Eagles to a back-to-back men’s basketball titles at the expense of the University of the East Red Warriors. The half-brother of Burger King stalwart Carlo Sharma was adjudged Finals MVP of the series.
“We are excited and proud to have Rabeh in Smart Gilas. He is definitely a major addition to the team and will play a vital role in our campaign towards making the London Olympics," Eala said.
“We thank the family of Rabeh, his friends and advisers and the Ateneo community for the trust and support they have reposed up the SBP and Smart Gilas," he added.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Ginebra Kings beat San Miguel, 98-86
source: abs-cbnnews.com
Comebacking Mark Caguioa sparked Barangay Ginebra’s second-half onslaught to carry his team to a 98-86 win over San Miguel Beer in the opening game Wednesday night in the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Caguioa, who sat out the previous season due to tendinitis on both knees, had 15 of his 17 points in the third period that allowed the Kings to break away from a tight contest.
Eric Menk led Ginebra with 18 points and drew plenty of help particularly from Caguioa and reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand, who also finished with 17 points aside from seven rebounds and nine assists.
“This is just a first game, every team is still feeling each other out,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, who lost to the Beermen in the Fiesta Cup finals last season.
“Siguro nag-relax lang sila dahil sa championship hang over and we don’t want to happen kung ano nangyari last time, kaya we moved our energy level a notch higher,” he added.
Caguioa played 28 minutes and shot 7-of-12 from the field in his return to the league.
“I’m just glad to be back and I’m happy to be playing again for the Ginebra fans,” said Caguiao.
Uichico said his ward is still “a step slower” in his comeback game but he’s hoping Caguioa can get back in full shape before playoffs.
Danny Ildefonso led San Miguel with 19 points while Mike Cortez added 12. Arwind Santos was held down to just 9 markers in his debut as a Beermen on 4-of-16 shooting from the field.
After taking a 49-43 halftime lead, Ginebra increased the gap to 10, 75-65, as Caguiao poured 15 markers in 11 minutes in the third quarter.
The Kings were never seriously threatened since then. Ronald Tubid and Willy Wilson added 12 and 10 markers respectively for Ginebra.
Comebacking Mark Caguioa sparked Barangay Ginebra’s second-half onslaught to carry his team to a 98-86 win over San Miguel Beer in the opening game Wednesday night in the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Caguioa, who sat out the previous season due to tendinitis on both knees, had 15 of his 17 points in the third period that allowed the Kings to break away from a tight contest.
Eric Menk led Ginebra with 18 points and drew plenty of help particularly from Caguioa and reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand, who also finished with 17 points aside from seven rebounds and nine assists.
“This is just a first game, every team is still feeling each other out,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, who lost to the Beermen in the Fiesta Cup finals last season.
“Siguro nag-relax lang sila dahil sa championship hang over and we don’t want to happen kung ano nangyari last time, kaya we moved our energy level a notch higher,” he added.
Caguioa played 28 minutes and shot 7-of-12 from the field in his return to the league.
“I’m just glad to be back and I’m happy to be playing again for the Ginebra fans,” said Caguiao.
Uichico said his ward is still “a step slower” in his comeback game but he’s hoping Caguioa can get back in full shape before playoffs.
Danny Ildefonso led San Miguel with 19 points while Mike Cortez added 12. Arwind Santos was held down to just 9 markers in his debut as a Beermen on 4-of-16 shooting from the field.
After taking a 49-43 halftime lead, Ginebra increased the gap to 10, 75-65, as Caguiao poured 15 markers in 11 minutes in the third quarter.
The Kings were never seriously threatened since then. Ronald Tubid and Willy Wilson added 12 and 10 markers respectively for Ginebra.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Board okays Japeth return to Gilas five
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
Japeth Aguilar has returned to the Smart Gilas fold, cleared to play for the RP developmental team after being traded by the Burger King Whoppers.
Aguilar rejoined the RP hopefuls yesterday with no less than three PBA teams getting involved in the deal.
With the season having just started, Burger King, Talk n Text and Barako Bull figured in a trade deal paving the way for Aguilar’s return to Smart Gilas.
“I made the deal with clearance from the other members of the PBA board. I think this is the best solution to this problem,” said Burger King top official and PBA board chairman Lito Alvarez.
Burger King released Aguilar and Orly Daroya for two future first round picks each by Talk n Text (2013 and 2014) and Barako Bull (2010 and 2012).
Barako Bull agreed to be the third party in the BK-Talk n Text deal being recipient earlier of TnT reserves Yousif Aljamal and Gilbert Lao. Added to the Energy Boosters’ lineup was Daroya as a result of the latest development.
Talk n Text made the biggest sacrifice in giving away two future first round picks to bring Aguilar over to Smart Gilas.
Part of the condition is that Aguilar will not be allowed to play for Talk n Text until after completing a three-year duty with the RP team.
“Why keep him (Aguilar) when his mindset is not in it (playing for Burger King),” Alvarez added.
Alvarez announced the closure to the Aguilar case after the controversial player suited up and played one game with the Whoppers in the PBA season-opening game which they lost to the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants.
“Masyado kaming binigyan ng problema ng player na ito (We’re given so much problem by this guy),” said Alvarez of Aguilar who made himself available for the 2009 draft only to turn his back on the league later on.
Meanwhile, Talk n Text top official Ricky Vargas said they came up with the best solution with the guidance of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan.
“Mr. Manny Pangilinan instructed us to find an acceptable solution and resolve the impasse. To quote him, ‘Be part of the solution and not the problem,’” said Vargas.
“The agreement could never have been possible without the willingness of Burger King team owner Mr. Bert Lina and PBA chairman and Mr.Alvarez who, despite losing the services of Aguilar, put their overriding interest in helping the Smart Gilas national team above all else. Talk N’ Text could do no less, in fairness to the nine other teams in the PBA,” Vargas added.
PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios cleared the trade, giving Aguilar the go-signal to return to Smart Gilas.
Aguilar suits up with Smart Gilas as it starts its guest stint in the Philippine Cup curiously against Burger King Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Japeth Aguilar has returned to the Smart Gilas fold, cleared to play for the RP developmental team after being traded by the Burger King Whoppers.
Aguilar rejoined the RP hopefuls yesterday with no less than three PBA teams getting involved in the deal.
With the season having just started, Burger King, Talk n Text and Barako Bull figured in a trade deal paving the way for Aguilar’s return to Smart Gilas.
“I made the deal with clearance from the other members of the PBA board. I think this is the best solution to this problem,” said Burger King top official and PBA board chairman Lito Alvarez.
Burger King released Aguilar and Orly Daroya for two future first round picks each by Talk n Text (2013 and 2014) and Barako Bull (2010 and 2012).
Barako Bull agreed to be the third party in the BK-Talk n Text deal being recipient earlier of TnT reserves Yousif Aljamal and Gilbert Lao. Added to the Energy Boosters’ lineup was Daroya as a result of the latest development.
Talk n Text made the biggest sacrifice in giving away two future first round picks to bring Aguilar over to Smart Gilas.
Part of the condition is that Aguilar will not be allowed to play for Talk n Text until after completing a three-year duty with the RP team.
“Why keep him (Aguilar) when his mindset is not in it (playing for Burger King),” Alvarez added.
Alvarez announced the closure to the Aguilar case after the controversial player suited up and played one game with the Whoppers in the PBA season-opening game which they lost to the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants.
“Masyado kaming binigyan ng problema ng player na ito (We’re given so much problem by this guy),” said Alvarez of Aguilar who made himself available for the 2009 draft only to turn his back on the league later on.
Meanwhile, Talk n Text top official Ricky Vargas said they came up with the best solution with the guidance of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan.
“Mr. Manny Pangilinan instructed us to find an acceptable solution and resolve the impasse. To quote him, ‘Be part of the solution and not the problem,’” said Vargas.
“The agreement could never have been possible without the willingness of Burger King team owner Mr. Bert Lina and PBA chairman and Mr.Alvarez who, despite losing the services of Aguilar, put their overriding interest in helping the Smart Gilas national team above all else. Talk N’ Text could do no less, in fairness to the nine other teams in the PBA,” Vargas added.
PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios cleared the trade, giving Aguilar the go-signal to return to Smart Gilas.
Aguilar suits up with Smart Gilas as it starts its guest stint in the Philippine Cup curiously against Burger King Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Fancied squads launch RP Cup bids
source: philstar.com
San Miguel Beer, Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk, among the teams expected to do well in the new PBA season, launch their campaigns in the 2009-2010 KFC PBA Philippine Cup today, figuring in an exciting twinbill at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Beermen and the Kings clash in an early rematch of their Fiesta Conference title duel at 7:30 p.m. while the Aces – losing finalists in the last all-Filipino tourney – collide with the Barako Bull Energy Boosters earlier at 5 p.m.
The Beermen, the Kings and the Aces, together with the Talk n Text Tropang Texters and the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants, are among those fancied to figure prominently in the fight for the Philippine Cup championship.
SMB is highly touted as it is bringing back the core of the Fiesta Conference champion team boosted further by the return of Danny Seigle and the addition of Arwind Santos, Denok Miranda and Mike Holper.
Ginebra has kept the nucleus of the team that narrowly lost the Fiesta Conference crown to San Miguel, and the Kings are boosted by Mark Caguioa’s comeback and the arrival of Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Celino Cruz and Kevin White.
Alaska hardly had changes but reactivated Ariel Capus from the reserve list and enlisted Fil-Am rookie Mike Burtscher.
Barako Bull is a team that embarked on a massive buildup in the off-season, opting for young players all raring to show their worth in the pros.
Among the new players at Barako Bull are Aris Dimaunahan, Gec Chia, Gilbert Lao, Ogie Menor, Benedict Fernandez, Bruce Viray, Yousif Aljamal and Brian Faundo.
The Beermen and the Kings are expected to figure in a fierce battle as they did in their Fiesta Conference best-of-seven title showdown, which hit the full distance.
With several new players coming in, Ginebra coach Jong Uichico has decided to apply a new system in his team, opting to pattern their plays after FIBA games.
“We’ll try to spread the ball around and give each one equal opportunity to score because we don’t have a legitimate real advantage in talent. We’re at a disadvantage compared to San Miguel, Purefoods and Purefoods talent-wise man-for-man,” said Uichico.
“The players are having a hard time adjusting to it. It’s a gamble but sometimes you have to take the risk if you think that’s the right way to go. We hope it works,” Uichico added.
Uichico, however, stressed there will still be their run-and-gun game.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
San Miguel Beer, Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk, among the teams expected to do well in the new PBA season, launch their campaigns in the 2009-2010 KFC PBA Philippine Cup today, figuring in an exciting twinbill at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Beermen and the Kings clash in an early rematch of their Fiesta Conference title duel at 7:30 p.m. while the Aces – losing finalists in the last all-Filipino tourney – collide with the Barako Bull Energy Boosters earlier at 5 p.m.
The Beermen, the Kings and the Aces, together with the Talk n Text Tropang Texters and the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants, are among those fancied to figure prominently in the fight for the Philippine Cup championship.
SMB is highly touted as it is bringing back the core of the Fiesta Conference champion team boosted further by the return of Danny Seigle and the addition of Arwind Santos, Denok Miranda and Mike Holper.
Ginebra has kept the nucleus of the team that narrowly lost the Fiesta Conference crown to San Miguel, and the Kings are boosted by Mark Caguioa’s comeback and the arrival of Rico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Celino Cruz and Kevin White.
Alaska hardly had changes but reactivated Ariel Capus from the reserve list and enlisted Fil-Am rookie Mike Burtscher.
Barako Bull is a team that embarked on a massive buildup in the off-season, opting for young players all raring to show their worth in the pros.
Among the new players at Barako Bull are Aris Dimaunahan, Gec Chia, Gilbert Lao, Ogie Menor, Benedict Fernandez, Bruce Viray, Yousif Aljamal and Brian Faundo.
The Beermen and the Kings are expected to figure in a fierce battle as they did in their Fiesta Conference best-of-seven title showdown, which hit the full distance.
With several new players coming in, Ginebra coach Jong Uichico has decided to apply a new system in his team, opting to pattern their plays after FIBA games.
“We’ll try to spread the ball around and give each one equal opportunity to score because we don’t have a legitimate real advantage in talent. We’re at a disadvantage compared to San Miguel, Purefoods and Purefoods talent-wise man-for-man,” said Uichico.
“The players are having a hard time adjusting to it. It’s a gamble but sometimes you have to take the risk if you think that’s the right way to go. We hope it works,” Uichico added.
Uichico, however, stressed there will still be their run-and-gun game.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Beermen start back-to-back quest vs Gin Kings
source: gmanews.tv
Four more teams make their PBA Philippine Cup debut on Wednesday with the Fiesta Conference Finals rematch between San Miguel Beer and Barangay Ginebra capping the weekday doubleheader at the Araneta Coliseum.
The intact Alaska Aces take on Barako Bull in the curtain raiser set at 5 p.m. in a game the Energy Boosters are dedicating to former team manager Tony Chua, who met a tragic death at the height of tropical storm “Ondoy."
Runner up to Talk `N Text this same conference last year, the Aces didn’t tinker much with their roster, keeping the core of two-time MVP Willie Miller, LA Tenorio, Joe DeVance and Tony De La Cruz, with rookie Mike Burtscher as the lone addition.
The same can’t be said of San Miguel.
Already teeming with talent when they bagged the Fiesta Cup crown at the expense of the Kings in seven grueling games last season, the Beermen further beefed up their lineup by acquiring Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda during the off-season.
The team did lose Marc Pingris to Purefoods, but San Miguel was fortunate to have Lordy Tugade back from injury.
Ditto for Danny Seigle, who, although not yet completely healed, is slowly trying his very best to return to the form that once made him a feared scoring threat.
“He’s trying to get there," said SMB coach Siot Tanquingcen of Seigle. “But it would take time."
No team has won back-to-back titles since the two-conference format was introduced. Yet judging San Miguel’s cast, that feat may just be achieved.
“It’s flattering to be ranked as a contender but it doesn’t mean a thing if we can’t perform as a unit inside the court," said Tanquingcen. “Playing Ginebra is always hard, more so now that they got Mark (Caguioa) back."
Erik Menk, extreme right, and the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings with muse Anne Curtis during Sunday’s PBA opening rites. GMANews.TV
A healthy Ginebra is a good match for San Miguel. But Gin Kings coach Jong Uichico said that the most popular team has yet to reach the chemistry that he desires now that Caguioa has returned after missing the entire 2008-09 season.
“Mark and Erik (Menk) are 80 percent (healthy)," admitted the eight-time champion coach. “We are a wait-and-see team right now, how we'll be able to adjust to each other, to the system and team chemistry."
Ginebra lost Rafi Reavis and Paul Artadi to trades during the season break. In return, the squad acquired veteran guard Celino Cruz, Rich Alvarez and big man Enrico Villanueva.
The good thing about the Gin Kings is that they will have a fit Jay-Jay Helterbrand, last season’s Most Valuable Player. Cyrus Baguio and Ronald Tubid are likewise healthy, making Ginebra one of the teams with the deepest rotations at the backcourt.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Four more teams make their PBA Philippine Cup debut on Wednesday with the Fiesta Conference Finals rematch between San Miguel Beer and Barangay Ginebra capping the weekday doubleheader at the Araneta Coliseum.
The intact Alaska Aces take on Barako Bull in the curtain raiser set at 5 p.m. in a game the Energy Boosters are dedicating to former team manager Tony Chua, who met a tragic death at the height of tropical storm “Ondoy."
Runner up to Talk `N Text this same conference last year, the Aces didn’t tinker much with their roster, keeping the core of two-time MVP Willie Miller, LA Tenorio, Joe DeVance and Tony De La Cruz, with rookie Mike Burtscher as the lone addition.
The same can’t be said of San Miguel.
Already teeming with talent when they bagged the Fiesta Cup crown at the expense of the Kings in seven grueling games last season, the Beermen further beefed up their lineup by acquiring Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda during the off-season.
The team did lose Marc Pingris to Purefoods, but San Miguel was fortunate to have Lordy Tugade back from injury.
Ditto for Danny Seigle, who, although not yet completely healed, is slowly trying his very best to return to the form that once made him a feared scoring threat.
“He’s trying to get there," said SMB coach Siot Tanquingcen of Seigle. “But it would take time."
No team has won back-to-back titles since the two-conference format was introduced. Yet judging San Miguel’s cast, that feat may just be achieved.
“It’s flattering to be ranked as a contender but it doesn’t mean a thing if we can’t perform as a unit inside the court," said Tanquingcen. “Playing Ginebra is always hard, more so now that they got Mark (Caguioa) back."
Erik Menk, extreme right, and the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings with muse Anne Curtis during Sunday’s PBA opening rites. GMANews.TV
A healthy Ginebra is a good match for San Miguel. But Gin Kings coach Jong Uichico said that the most popular team has yet to reach the chemistry that he desires now that Caguioa has returned after missing the entire 2008-09 season.
“Mark and Erik (Menk) are 80 percent (healthy)," admitted the eight-time champion coach. “We are a wait-and-see team right now, how we'll be able to adjust to each other, to the system and team chemistry."
Ginebra lost Rafi Reavis and Paul Artadi to trades during the season break. In return, the squad acquired veteran guard Celino Cruz, Rich Alvarez and big man Enrico Villanueva.
The good thing about the Gin Kings is that they will have a fit Jay-Jay Helterbrand, last season’s Most Valuable Player. Cyrus Baguio and Ronald Tubid are likewise healthy, making Ginebra one of the teams with the deepest rotations at the backcourt.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Caguioa back after long lay off
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer, two of the busiest teams in the off-season, clash this Wednesday with the Kings going to welcome prolific scorer Mark Caguioa back to their fold in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup today at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Kings and the Beermen collide in the 7:30 p.m. after the 5 p.m. encounter between the Alaska Aces and the Barako Bull Energy Boosters.
Fresh from its Fiesta Cup title campaign where it downed Ginebra in a thrilling seven-game showdown, San Miguel further upgraded its already formidable roster with the acquisition of versatile forward Arwind Santos from Burger King and playmaker Dennis Miranda from Sta. Lucia Realty.
Santos and Miranda were acquired from Burger King and Sta. Lucia, respectively, in exchange for future rookie picks.
The ability of Santos to play the 2-3 positions has solidified SMB’s guard-forward rotation that include Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade, and Danny Seigle. Both Tugade and Seigle did not see action in the last conference due to various injuries.
But the comeback of Caguioa, considered one of the PBA’s top guards, is the most awaited. He missed almost the entire season last year due to tendonitis.
“We are a ‘wait and see’ team. How we will be able to adjust to each other, to the system and team chemistry remains to be seen,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, adding that keeping the players healthy is also a key factor.
A healthy Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand, who was also bothered by hamstring injury in the Fiesta Cup finals, should make Ginebra one of the teams to beat this conference.
Aside from Caguioa, the Kings will also unravel their new recruits in big men Enrico Villanueva and Rich Alvarez, as well as guard Celino Cruz.
Villanueva, Alvarez, and Cruz all came from a trade with Purefoods, in exchange for Rafi Reavis and Paul Artadi with Burger King acting as conduit.
Uichico hopes that aside from Caguioa and Helterbrand, the three will be comfortable with other teammates including Cyrus Baguio, Ronald Tubid, Billy Mamaril, JC Intal, Eric Menk and Sunday Salvacion, Willy Wilson, and Doug Kramer.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Barangay Ginebra and San Miguel Beer, two of the busiest teams in the off-season, clash this Wednesday with the Kings going to welcome prolific scorer Mark Caguioa back to their fold in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup today at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Kings and the Beermen collide in the 7:30 p.m. after the 5 p.m. encounter between the Alaska Aces and the Barako Bull Energy Boosters.
Fresh from its Fiesta Cup title campaign where it downed Ginebra in a thrilling seven-game showdown, San Miguel further upgraded its already formidable roster with the acquisition of versatile forward Arwind Santos from Burger King and playmaker Dennis Miranda from Sta. Lucia Realty.
Santos and Miranda were acquired from Burger King and Sta. Lucia, respectively, in exchange for future rookie picks.
The ability of Santos to play the 2-3 positions has solidified SMB’s guard-forward rotation that include Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade, and Danny Seigle. Both Tugade and Seigle did not see action in the last conference due to various injuries.
But the comeback of Caguioa, considered one of the PBA’s top guards, is the most awaited. He missed almost the entire season last year due to tendonitis.
“We are a ‘wait and see’ team. How we will be able to adjust to each other, to the system and team chemistry remains to be seen,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, adding that keeping the players healthy is also a key factor.
A healthy Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand, who was also bothered by hamstring injury in the Fiesta Cup finals, should make Ginebra one of the teams to beat this conference.
Aside from Caguioa, the Kings will also unravel their new recruits in big men Enrico Villanueva and Rich Alvarez, as well as guard Celino Cruz.
Villanueva, Alvarez, and Cruz all came from a trade with Purefoods, in exchange for Rafi Reavis and Paul Artadi with Burger King acting as conduit.
Uichico hopes that aside from Caguioa and Helterbrand, the three will be comfortable with other teammates including Cyrus Baguio, Ronald Tubid, Billy Mamaril, JC Intal, Eric Menk and Sunday Salvacion, Willy Wilson, and Doug Kramer.
Games on Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5:00 p.m. — Alaska vs Barako Bull
7:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs San Miguel
Monday, October 12, 2009
Burger King trades away controversial rookie Aguilar
source: gmanews.tv
Controversial rookie Japeth Aguilar’s first game with Burger King also proved to be his last.
In yet another twist in the never-ending saga involving the lanky, 6-foot-10 freshman, the Whopper management announced that it is trading away Aguilar in a shocking development that rocked the PBA Philippine Cup still at its infant stage.
Aguilar is expected to end up with the team he wants to play for – the RP-Smart Gilas team - but will have to be traded first to Barako Bull and eventually, shipped to Talk `N Text. The Tropang Texters then will unload him to the national team.
Handled by Serbian coach Rajko Toroman, the Smart-Gilas team is being bankrolled by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the amateur governing body headed by Talk ‘N Text owner Manny V. Pangilinan.
Barako Bull had to act as conduit to the trade since Burger King and Talk`N Text can’t be involved in a direct deal as per PBA rules since Pangilinan has stakes in both franchises.
PBA chairman and Burger King representative to the league Board Lito Alvarez made the announcement inside the Whopper’s dugout shortly after the team lost to Purefoods, 93-80, on Sunday.
His statement caught the whole team by surprise as the Whopper stayed in their dugout for about two hours following the game.
Aguilar, who had stints with Western Kentucky University in the US NCAA, had 10 points, nine rebounds and a shot block in 24 minutes of action during his PBA debut.
More comfortable with Gilas
“Japeth really wants to play for Smart-Gilas," said Ronnie Nathanielz, Aguilar’s manager-adviser. “He is more comfortable there and he thinks that he can learn more from (Rajko) Toroman."
Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said letting go of a player who from the start appeared not really inclined to play for the team could yet be the best answer to the situation.
“Maganda na rin yan sa isang banda. At least, hindi lang isang kampo ang masaya," said Guiao, who also handled Aguilar with the Powerade-Team Pilipinas squad in the FIBA Asia Championship.
“Besides, we’ve prepared naman for the season without Japeth."
In return for trading the year’s top rookie pick, Burger King will get the No. 2 and 3 picks of Talk 'N Text in the 2010-11 Draft, assuring the Whopper of owning the top three selections since it already has the right on the No. 1 pick.
Aguilar is expected to suit up for Smart-Gilas on Friday when it takes on Burger King. The Nationals will only play for 10 games in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup (the first round of the eliminations) before they compete in a series of tournaments overseas.
The 22-year-old Aguilar earlier became the center of controversy for refusing to join Burger King and deciding to hook up with the Smart Gilas squad instead. Facing possible ban from the pro-league, Aguilar eventually agreed to ink a one-year pact with Burger King worth P1.8 million in time for Sunday’s PBA opening.
Controversial rookie Japeth Aguilar’s first game with Burger King also proved to be his last.
In yet another twist in the never-ending saga involving the lanky, 6-foot-10 freshman, the Whopper management announced that it is trading away Aguilar in a shocking development that rocked the PBA Philippine Cup still at its infant stage.
Aguilar is expected to end up with the team he wants to play for – the RP-Smart Gilas team - but will have to be traded first to Barako Bull and eventually, shipped to Talk `N Text. The Tropang Texters then will unload him to the national team.
Handled by Serbian coach Rajko Toroman, the Smart-Gilas team is being bankrolled by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the amateur governing body headed by Talk ‘N Text owner Manny V. Pangilinan.
Barako Bull had to act as conduit to the trade since Burger King and Talk`N Text can’t be involved in a direct deal as per PBA rules since Pangilinan has stakes in both franchises.
PBA chairman and Burger King representative to the league Board Lito Alvarez made the announcement inside the Whopper’s dugout shortly after the team lost to Purefoods, 93-80, on Sunday.
His statement caught the whole team by surprise as the Whopper stayed in their dugout for about two hours following the game.
Aguilar, who had stints with Western Kentucky University in the US NCAA, had 10 points, nine rebounds and a shot block in 24 minutes of action during his PBA debut.
More comfortable with Gilas
“Japeth really wants to play for Smart-Gilas," said Ronnie Nathanielz, Aguilar’s manager-adviser. “He is more comfortable there and he thinks that he can learn more from (Rajko) Toroman."
Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said letting go of a player who from the start appeared not really inclined to play for the team could yet be the best answer to the situation.
“Maganda na rin yan sa isang banda. At least, hindi lang isang kampo ang masaya," said Guiao, who also handled Aguilar with the Powerade-Team Pilipinas squad in the FIBA Asia Championship.
“Besides, we’ve prepared naman for the season without Japeth."
In return for trading the year’s top rookie pick, Burger King will get the No. 2 and 3 picks of Talk 'N Text in the 2010-11 Draft, assuring the Whopper of owning the top three selections since it already has the right on the No. 1 pick.
Aguilar is expected to suit up for Smart-Gilas on Friday when it takes on Burger King. The Nationals will only play for 10 games in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup (the first round of the eliminations) before they compete in a series of tournaments overseas.
The 22-year-old Aguilar earlier became the center of controversy for refusing to join Burger King and deciding to hook up with the Smart Gilas squad instead. Facing possible ban from the pro-league, Aguilar eventually agreed to ink a one-year pact with Burger King worth P1.8 million in time for Sunday’s PBA opening.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Controversial Japeth speaking like a pro
source: businessmirror.com.ph
All Japeth Aguilar wants now is to focus on the task ahead.
The controversial top pick in the rookie draft finally came to terms with Burger King and played his first Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) game Sunday night against Purefoods Tender Juicy.
Now, the 22-year-old, six-foot-10 forward’s goal is contribute to the success of the Whopper.
“Nandito lahat ang concentration ko sa ngayon,” said Aguilar minutes before joining Burger King in the traditional parade of teams during the opening ceremonies of the 35th season of the PBA.
“’Yung ibang concerns ko, sa isang tabi muna. Sa ngayon, ang focus ko ay ang matulungan ang Burger King,” said Aguilar. Aguilar had his scrimmage with the Whopper Saturday morning, less than an hour after his camp and Burger King management agreed to a one-year deal.
Aguilar wanted to play for Smart Gilas but the intercession of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president and Talk ’N Text owner Manny V. Pangilinan solved the crisis.
“Lahat ng family members ko, sister, auntie, parent ko, parang tinitingnan namin ang future eh,” he said. “Basta kung ano ang napag-desisyunan ng management, doon ako.”
After months of waiting, Aguilar’s camp finally agreed to a one-year deal with the Whopper although there are speculations he will not stay long as a Whopper and will eventually be traded to Talk ’N Text. He previously rejected a three-year, P8.7-million offer from Burger King, a maximum contract a PBA team can offer to the No. 1 pick.
But Aguilar still sees his future in a different plateau, despite all the effort to appear professional.
“National team pa rin ang ultimate goal ko,” said Aguilar. “But I have a little catching up to do with this team and hopefully I’ll get there,” he said.
Aguilar reunited with coach Yeng Guiao, his mentor on Team Pilipinas that played in the International Basketball Federation (Asia Men’s Championship in Tianjin, China, last August.
PBA stint excites Toroman
AFTER humiliating the PBA-backed national squad last week, Serbian coach Rajko Toroman now braces for a more difficult battle when their stint as “guests” in the conference is put to a first test on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Toroman is excited over how his wards would step up to the challenge without Japeth Aguilar.
“After the Team Pilipinas game, it will be more difficult for us because these teams are two or three months together now,” Toroman told the BusinessMirror Sunday. “Every game now will be tougher for us.”
The Smart Gilas squad demolished Yeng Guiao’s team by 29 points, 98-69, in a charity game last October 5 at the Big Dome.
Aguilar and American CJ Giles were responsible for that convincing win.
Smart Gilas is entered as a guest team in the conference. It will play a total of 10 games the results of which will have bearing on their opponents. It will play Burger King on Friday at 2:30 p.m.
Toroman, who brought Iran to its first Olympic stint last year in Beijing, wants to maximize their stint in the PBA and believes he will get what he wants for his young squad.
“This will benefit us because these [PBA] teams will give us a hard time,” he said.
(*above photo by Jun Mendoza)
All Japeth Aguilar wants now is to focus on the task ahead.
The controversial top pick in the rookie draft finally came to terms with Burger King and played his first Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) game Sunday night against Purefoods Tender Juicy.
Now, the 22-year-old, six-foot-10 forward’s goal is contribute to the success of the Whopper.
“Nandito lahat ang concentration ko sa ngayon,” said Aguilar minutes before joining Burger King in the traditional parade of teams during the opening ceremonies of the 35th season of the PBA.
“’Yung ibang concerns ko, sa isang tabi muna. Sa ngayon, ang focus ko ay ang matulungan ang Burger King,” said Aguilar. Aguilar had his scrimmage with the Whopper Saturday morning, less than an hour after his camp and Burger King management agreed to a one-year deal.
Aguilar wanted to play for Smart Gilas but the intercession of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president and Talk ’N Text owner Manny V. Pangilinan solved the crisis.
“Lahat ng family members ko, sister, auntie, parent ko, parang tinitingnan namin ang future eh,” he said. “Basta kung ano ang napag-desisyunan ng management, doon ako.”
After months of waiting, Aguilar’s camp finally agreed to a one-year deal with the Whopper although there are speculations he will not stay long as a Whopper and will eventually be traded to Talk ’N Text. He previously rejected a three-year, P8.7-million offer from Burger King, a maximum contract a PBA team can offer to the No. 1 pick.
But Aguilar still sees his future in a different plateau, despite all the effort to appear professional.
“National team pa rin ang ultimate goal ko,” said Aguilar. “But I have a little catching up to do with this team and hopefully I’ll get there,” he said.
Aguilar reunited with coach Yeng Guiao, his mentor on Team Pilipinas that played in the International Basketball Federation (Asia Men’s Championship in Tianjin, China, last August.
PBA stint excites Toroman
AFTER humiliating the PBA-backed national squad last week, Serbian coach Rajko Toroman now braces for a more difficult battle when their stint as “guests” in the conference is put to a first test on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Toroman is excited over how his wards would step up to the challenge without Japeth Aguilar.
“After the Team Pilipinas game, it will be more difficult for us because these teams are two or three months together now,” Toroman told the BusinessMirror Sunday. “Every game now will be tougher for us.”
The Smart Gilas squad demolished Yeng Guiao’s team by 29 points, 98-69, in a charity game last October 5 at the Big Dome.
Aguilar and American CJ Giles were responsible for that convincing win.
Smart Gilas is entered as a guest team in the conference. It will play a total of 10 games the results of which will have bearing on their opponents. It will play Burger King on Friday at 2:30 p.m.
Toroman, who brought Iran to its first Olympic stint last year in Beijing, wants to maximize their stint in the PBA and believes he will get what he wants for his young squad.
“This will benefit us because these [PBA] teams will give us a hard time,” he said.
(*above photo by Jun Mendoza)
Giants wallop Whopper, spoil Aguilar’s debut
source: gmanews.tv
Welcome to the big league, Japeth Aguilar.
A rude reception greeted the year’s top rookie pick in his Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) debut as Purefoods walloped Burger King, 93-80, in the lone game ushering the 2009-2010 Philippine Cup Sunday night before a big crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
All eyes were obviously on the 6-foot-10 former Western Kentucky stalwart, who created quite a stir in the off-season for initially refusing to sign up with the Whopper, the team that picked him no. 1 overall in the last Draft.
But the Giants, playing with more passion and cohesion, immediately made people forget about Aguilar by dominating the game from start to finish and registered the most lopsided season-opening game since Mobiline downed Tanduay, 90-64, in 1999.
Kerby Raymundo, proving he’s still among the force to reckon with inside the paint, led the Giants’ first half breakaway, scoring 11 of his 19 points during that stretch.
New Purefoods acquisition Rafi Reavis also came up big inside the paint, scoring 14 points, grabbing a game-high 20 rebounds, while doing the big task trying to contain Aguilar at the other end.
“It’s always nice to win the first game. We want to start on the right foot, but it will have to take so many games to be in the destination where want to be in. Our new guys performed well, especially Reavis," said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.
Aguilar finished with 10 points, nine rebounds and a block shot in 24 minutes of playing time.
“Obviously, he (Aguilar) can make a team grow," said Gregorio, trying to be nice to the controversial rookie big man. “Given more time, he will be as good as advertised."
Purefoods led by as many as 26 points (65-39) in the third period, a cushion brought about by numerous hustles and rattling defensive patterns in the first half against a team that ended the 2008-09 season at No. 2 in terms of scoring.
Chico Lanete led the Whopper with 14 points while Gary David and Wynne Arboleda combined for 24. JR Quinahan contributed eight points and grabbed 10 rebounds.
Aguilar started a little bit sloppy, often times losing his man in the defensive rotation. He came into the game at the 9:10 mark of the first quarter, committed a turnover two minutes later while down low before getting his first two points on a follow-up of his own miss with 6:21 to play in the second period.
The Giants held the Whopper under 20 points in the first two periods, including 14 in the first quarter, and held an already commanding 48-31 lead at the break.
Purefoods led largest at 45-22 in the first half on a three-point play by Raymundo off Aguilar.
The scores
Purefoods (93) -- Raymundo 19, Simon 17, Reavis 14, Yap J. 12, Maierhofer 9, Yap R. 6, Allado 6, Artadi 5, Canaleta 3, Pingris 2, Timberlake 0.
Burger King (80) -- Lanete 14, David 13, Arboleda 11, Aguilar 10, Quinahan 8, Buenafe 7, Yee 5, Matias 4, Yee 4, Belga 2, Sharma 2, Aban 0.
Quarterscores: 21-14, 43-31, 72-52, 93-80.
Welcome to the big league, Japeth Aguilar.
A rude reception greeted the year’s top rookie pick in his Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) debut as Purefoods walloped Burger King, 93-80, in the lone game ushering the 2009-2010 Philippine Cup Sunday night before a big crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
All eyes were obviously on the 6-foot-10 former Western Kentucky stalwart, who created quite a stir in the off-season for initially refusing to sign up with the Whopper, the team that picked him no. 1 overall in the last Draft.
But the Giants, playing with more passion and cohesion, immediately made people forget about Aguilar by dominating the game from start to finish and registered the most lopsided season-opening game since Mobiline downed Tanduay, 90-64, in 1999.
Kerby Raymundo, proving he’s still among the force to reckon with inside the paint, led the Giants’ first half breakaway, scoring 11 of his 19 points during that stretch.
New Purefoods acquisition Rafi Reavis also came up big inside the paint, scoring 14 points, grabbing a game-high 20 rebounds, while doing the big task trying to contain Aguilar at the other end.
“It’s always nice to win the first game. We want to start on the right foot, but it will have to take so many games to be in the destination where want to be in. Our new guys performed well, especially Reavis," said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.
Aguilar finished with 10 points, nine rebounds and a block shot in 24 minutes of playing time.
“Obviously, he (Aguilar) can make a team grow," said Gregorio, trying to be nice to the controversial rookie big man. “Given more time, he will be as good as advertised."
Purefoods led by as many as 26 points (65-39) in the third period, a cushion brought about by numerous hustles and rattling defensive patterns in the first half against a team that ended the 2008-09 season at No. 2 in terms of scoring.
Chico Lanete led the Whopper with 14 points while Gary David and Wynne Arboleda combined for 24. JR Quinahan contributed eight points and grabbed 10 rebounds.
Aguilar started a little bit sloppy, often times losing his man in the defensive rotation. He came into the game at the 9:10 mark of the first quarter, committed a turnover two minutes later while down low before getting his first two points on a follow-up of his own miss with 6:21 to play in the second period.
The Giants held the Whopper under 20 points in the first two periods, including 14 in the first quarter, and held an already commanding 48-31 lead at the break.
Purefoods led largest at 45-22 in the first half on a three-point play by Raymundo off Aguilar.
The scores
Purefoods (93) -- Raymundo 19, Simon 17, Reavis 14, Yap J. 12, Maierhofer 9, Yap R. 6, Allado 6, Artadi 5, Canaleta 3, Pingris 2, Timberlake 0.
Burger King (80) -- Lanete 14, David 13, Arboleda 11, Aguilar 10, Quinahan 8, Buenafe 7, Yee 5, Matias 4, Yee 4, Belga 2, Sharma 2, Aban 0.
Quarterscores: 21-14, 43-31, 72-52, 93-80.
Aguilar, Burger King reach accord
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
Japeth Aguilar, regarded as the future superstar of Philippine basketball, has reportedly agreed to play for Burger King when the Philippine Basketball Association’s 35th season opens this Sunday.
If the last kinks are ironed out, Aguilar’s stint with Burger King ends weeks of recriminations during which the 6-10 former Western University player decided not to sign with the Whopper after he was picked No. 1 overall by the team in the last draft, and Burger King threatened to ban him for life from playing in the PBA.
But on Friday, the two sides appeared to have found a middle ground to satisfy their interests.
A source who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to reveal details of the negotiation said Aguilar, 22, will suit up for the Whopper and after several games, will be traded to Talk 'N Text.
After a few more games, TNT will release Aguilar to Smart-Gilas where he will play the remainder of the PBA conference.
Aguilar’s eventual release from TNT is expected to be smooth as it is owned by businessman Manny Pangilinan who is also head of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas which bankrolls the Smart-Gilas national team.
Burger King governor and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said he expects Aguilar to sign the P8.7 million Uniformed Players Contract (UPC) they offered.
“It’s 90 percent sure he will play for Burger King,” said Alvarez before his meeting with Aguilar and his representative Ronnie Nathanielsz yesterday.
“Our objective is for him to play for Burger King,” Alvarez said of Aguilar. Nathanielsz confirmed Alvarez’s announcement.
“We talked the whole day last Thursday, and we had a good discussion. We’re trying to have a win-win situation for everybody,” Nathanielz told the Bulletin in a phone interview.
With this development, Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said he’s happy that the issue has been resolved before the start of the new PBA season.
Guiao coached Aguilar during the Powerade Team Pilipinas’ stint in the last Asia-FIBA championship in China.
“Ang sa akin lang kasi, as long as we can have a resolution to the problem, that’s the best for all. I think makakabuti sa lahat, whatever yung resolution na yun,” Guiao said.
“As long as meron ng agreement yung mga bosses natin, agreeable na rin ako run.”
Aguilar’s stint with Whopper against Purefoods in the PBA opening game on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum appeared a certainty after Aguilar was granted a professional license by the Games and Amusements Board, a source said.
Aguilar may have a little catching up to do in learning Guiao’s play patterns.
“Well, it depends. Kung makaka-ensayo siya bukas (today), we will run the patterns for him,” said Guiao.
“If he will be helpful to the team, of course we will use him. If not, maiintindihan naman niya siguro ‘yun.”
Japeth Aguilar, regarded as the future superstar of Philippine basketball, has reportedly agreed to play for Burger King when the Philippine Basketball Association’s 35th season opens this Sunday.
If the last kinks are ironed out, Aguilar’s stint with Burger King ends weeks of recriminations during which the 6-10 former Western University player decided not to sign with the Whopper after he was picked No. 1 overall by the team in the last draft, and Burger King threatened to ban him for life from playing in the PBA.
But on Friday, the two sides appeared to have found a middle ground to satisfy their interests.
A source who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to reveal details of the negotiation said Aguilar, 22, will suit up for the Whopper and after several games, will be traded to Talk 'N Text.
After a few more games, TNT will release Aguilar to Smart-Gilas where he will play the remainder of the PBA conference.
Aguilar’s eventual release from TNT is expected to be smooth as it is owned by businessman Manny Pangilinan who is also head of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas which bankrolls the Smart-Gilas national team.
Burger King governor and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez said he expects Aguilar to sign the P8.7 million Uniformed Players Contract (UPC) they offered.
“It’s 90 percent sure he will play for Burger King,” said Alvarez before his meeting with Aguilar and his representative Ronnie Nathanielsz yesterday.
“Our objective is for him to play for Burger King,” Alvarez said of Aguilar. Nathanielsz confirmed Alvarez’s announcement.
“We talked the whole day last Thursday, and we had a good discussion. We’re trying to have a win-win situation for everybody,” Nathanielz told the Bulletin in a phone interview.
With this development, Burger King coach Yeng Guiao said he’s happy that the issue has been resolved before the start of the new PBA season.
Guiao coached Aguilar during the Powerade Team Pilipinas’ stint in the last Asia-FIBA championship in China.
“Ang sa akin lang kasi, as long as we can have a resolution to the problem, that’s the best for all. I think makakabuti sa lahat, whatever yung resolution na yun,” Guiao said.
“As long as meron ng agreement yung mga bosses natin, agreeable na rin ako run.”
Aguilar’s stint with Whopper against Purefoods in the PBA opening game on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum appeared a certainty after Aguilar was granted a professional license by the Games and Amusements Board, a source said.
Aguilar may have a little catching up to do in learning Guiao’s play patterns.
“Well, it depends. Kung makaka-ensayo siya bukas (today), we will run the patterns for him,” said Guiao.
“If he will be helpful to the team, of course we will use him. If not, maiintindihan naman niya siguro ‘yun.”
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Gilas RP 5 ready for PBA with or without Japeth
source: gmanews.tv
Serbian coach Rajko Toroman’s Smart Gilas developmental team is ready for the big battles ahead in the Philippine Basketball Association with or without Japeth Aguilar.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP)-backed RP developmental team bulldozed their way past the Yeng Guiao-coached all-pro Powerade-Team Pilipinas in Monday’s benefit game at the Araneta Coliseum.
Basketball enthusiasts were able to get a glimpse of possibly the next fearsome twosome frontline combo of 6-foot-9 former Western Kentucky University player Japeth Aguilar and 6-foot-11 ex-Los Angeles Laker CJ Giles as they outplayed their more experienced rivals from Powerade led by Asi Taulava, Sonny Thoss, Ranidel de Ocampo, Kerby Raymundo and Jay-R Reyes.
But whether this formidable frontline partnership would continue for Smart Gilas when it plays as guest team in the PBA’ season-opening Philippine Cup remains remote as a possible ban is staring on the face of controversial top overall pick Aguilar, who turned his back from Burger King and the pro league as well and pursue a career with the amateur-laden Smart Gilas.
“He’s (Aguilar) a very important player for us," said Toroman. “He’s really a part of the team and he enjoys playing with us. But the decision is on the PBA. It’s a pity that this kind of a potential player would sit down for two or three months."
With Aguilar most likely to be given stiff sanction, Smart Gilas may not be able to utilize its dreaded frontline combo. But its frontline is just part and parcel of the team’s solid unit.
Against Powerade, the rest of the Smart Gilas players did a little bit of everything to win – from the able quarterbacking of Andy Barroca and JV Casio, to Dylan Ababou and Chris Tiu’s timely hits, and the perfect complement of Marc Barracael, Aldrich Ramos and JR Cawaling.
“I think we were more motivated in this game. Powerade have excellent players. Maybe we don’t have these kinds of players, but we played more solid as a team," said Toroman, the man responsible in leading Iran to its first FIBA Asia title in 2007. “We hope to add more players next year."
Smart Gilas hopes to add several marquee players from the collegiate ranks such as Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Ryan Buenafe of Ateneo, Paul Lee of University of the East, Junmar Fajardo of University of Cebu and 6-foot-4 Fil-Am Chris Lutz of Marshall University.
Smart Gilas, which will play as guest team in the season-opening PBA Philippine Cup, starts its bid against Burger King on Oct. 16 at the Cuneta Astrodome. After playing for 10 games, the developmental squad will fly to Amsterdam to compete in the Harlem Invitational Basketball tournament where it faces teams from Israel, Brazil, Holland and the United States.
Aside from this event, Smart Gilas will also see action in several international tournaments as part of its preparation for the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.
Serbian coach Rajko Toroman’s Smart Gilas developmental team is ready for the big battles ahead in the Philippine Basketball Association with or without Japeth Aguilar.
The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP)-backed RP developmental team bulldozed their way past the Yeng Guiao-coached all-pro Powerade-Team Pilipinas in Monday’s benefit game at the Araneta Coliseum.
Basketball enthusiasts were able to get a glimpse of possibly the next fearsome twosome frontline combo of 6-foot-9 former Western Kentucky University player Japeth Aguilar and 6-foot-11 ex-Los Angeles Laker CJ Giles as they outplayed their more experienced rivals from Powerade led by Asi Taulava, Sonny Thoss, Ranidel de Ocampo, Kerby Raymundo and Jay-R Reyes.
But whether this formidable frontline partnership would continue for Smart Gilas when it plays as guest team in the PBA’ season-opening Philippine Cup remains remote as a possible ban is staring on the face of controversial top overall pick Aguilar, who turned his back from Burger King and the pro league as well and pursue a career with the amateur-laden Smart Gilas.
“He’s (Aguilar) a very important player for us," said Toroman. “He’s really a part of the team and he enjoys playing with us. But the decision is on the PBA. It’s a pity that this kind of a potential player would sit down for two or three months."
With Aguilar most likely to be given stiff sanction, Smart Gilas may not be able to utilize its dreaded frontline combo. But its frontline is just part and parcel of the team’s solid unit.
Against Powerade, the rest of the Smart Gilas players did a little bit of everything to win – from the able quarterbacking of Andy Barroca and JV Casio, to Dylan Ababou and Chris Tiu’s timely hits, and the perfect complement of Marc Barracael, Aldrich Ramos and JR Cawaling.
“I think we were more motivated in this game. Powerade have excellent players. Maybe we don’t have these kinds of players, but we played more solid as a team," said Toroman, the man responsible in leading Iran to its first FIBA Asia title in 2007. “We hope to add more players next year."
Smart Gilas hopes to add several marquee players from the collegiate ranks such as Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Ryan Buenafe of Ateneo, Paul Lee of University of the East, Junmar Fajardo of University of Cebu and 6-foot-4 Fil-Am Chris Lutz of Marshall University.
Smart Gilas, which will play as guest team in the season-opening PBA Philippine Cup, starts its bid against Burger King on Oct. 16 at the Cuneta Astrodome. After playing for 10 games, the developmental squad will fly to Amsterdam to compete in the Harlem Invitational Basketball tournament where it faces teams from Israel, Brazil, Holland and the United States.
Aside from this event, Smart Gilas will also see action in several international tournaments as part of its preparation for the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Smart Gilas beat Powerade Team Pilipinas, 98-69
source: gmanews.tv
The Smart Gilas team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman has served notice of its readiness to play in the Philippine Basketball Association.
And they showed it by beating the country’s cream of the crop.
Relying not on anyone but everyone, Smart Gilas easily demolished an out-of-shape and undermanned Powerade-Pilipinas team, 98-69, Monday in the “Pinoy Basketball, Kakampi N’yo" fund-raising game at the Araneta Coliseum.
CJ Giles and Japeth Aguilar combined forces in possibly the most formidable frontline in Philippine basketball. Andy Barroca and JV Casio alternately played the point and held their own against their more experienced counterparts. And Dylan Ababou, Aldrech Ramos and Jason Ballesteros did a little bit of everything in handing Smart Gilas an easy triumph.
It was a game dominated by Toroman’s wards majority of the way.
They were only feeling their way around in the first few minutes of the first period, trailing by seven, 7-14, with James Yap and Willie Miller leading the way for Powerade.
Then came a big scoring outburst by Smart Gilas.
Giles and Aguilar made their presence felt inside and JV Casio fired a trey to cap off a big 17-5 exchange as the all-amateur team seized a 24-19 lead at the end of the first.
It was all Smart Gilas from there, leading by as many as 20 points twice in the third canto.
And with Giles and Chris Tiu combining for a one scintillating play to complete an alley-oop slam and push Smart Gilas to a 92-76 lead with only 2:16 left , the curtains finally fell on the all-pro Powerade-Pilipinas five, which didn’t have the chance of practicing since its eighth-place finish in the last FIBA Asia Championship.
Overall, Smart Gilas outplayed Powerade in almost all fronts.
Toroman’s troops shot the ball decently, making 37 of 78 attempts for a 47% clip, while Powerade struggled all game long and shot only 34%.
Smart Gilas, as expected, played better as a team, dishing out 17 assists more than Powerade-Pilipinas.
On rebounds, Giles, Aguilar and Ballesteros were too much as they terrorized the shaded lane and clobbered their rivals. Smart Gilas grabbed 60 rebounds to only 36 by Powerade.
Former Los Angeles Lakers Giles finished with 22 points, 16 rebounds and five shot blocks for Smart Gilas, which will play as a guest team in the coming PBA. Aguilar, the controversial top overall pick who previously suited up for Powerade-RP, had 24 points and four rebounds.
A project of basketball stockholders in the country led by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the PBA, the game was held for the benefit of victims of tropical storm “Ondoy" and in memory of Barako Bull executive Tony Chua, who perished at the height of the storm.
The Smart Gilas team of Serbian coach Rajko Toroman has served notice of its readiness to play in the Philippine Basketball Association.
And they showed it by beating the country’s cream of the crop.
Relying not on anyone but everyone, Smart Gilas easily demolished an out-of-shape and undermanned Powerade-Pilipinas team, 98-69, Monday in the “Pinoy Basketball, Kakampi N’yo" fund-raising game at the Araneta Coliseum.
CJ Giles and Japeth Aguilar combined forces in possibly the most formidable frontline in Philippine basketball. Andy Barroca and JV Casio alternately played the point and held their own against their more experienced counterparts. And Dylan Ababou, Aldrech Ramos and Jason Ballesteros did a little bit of everything in handing Smart Gilas an easy triumph.
It was a game dominated by Toroman’s wards majority of the way.
They were only feeling their way around in the first few minutes of the first period, trailing by seven, 7-14, with James Yap and Willie Miller leading the way for Powerade.
Then came a big scoring outburst by Smart Gilas.
Giles and Aguilar made their presence felt inside and JV Casio fired a trey to cap off a big 17-5 exchange as the all-amateur team seized a 24-19 lead at the end of the first.
It was all Smart Gilas from there, leading by as many as 20 points twice in the third canto.
And with Giles and Chris Tiu combining for a one scintillating play to complete an alley-oop slam and push Smart Gilas to a 92-76 lead with only 2:16 left , the curtains finally fell on the all-pro Powerade-Pilipinas five, which didn’t have the chance of practicing since its eighth-place finish in the last FIBA Asia Championship.
Overall, Smart Gilas outplayed Powerade in almost all fronts.
Toroman’s troops shot the ball decently, making 37 of 78 attempts for a 47% clip, while Powerade struggled all game long and shot only 34%.
Smart Gilas, as expected, played better as a team, dishing out 17 assists more than Powerade-Pilipinas.
On rebounds, Giles, Aguilar and Ballesteros were too much as they terrorized the shaded lane and clobbered their rivals. Smart Gilas grabbed 60 rebounds to only 36 by Powerade.
Former Los Angeles Lakers Giles finished with 22 points, 16 rebounds and five shot blocks for Smart Gilas, which will play as a guest team in the coming PBA. Aguilar, the controversial top overall pick who previously suited up for Powerade-RP, had 24 points and four rebounds.
A project of basketball stockholders in the country led by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the PBA, the game was held for the benefit of victims of tropical storm “Ondoy" and in memory of Barako Bull executive Tony Chua, who perished at the height of the storm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)