source: gmanews.tv
For several stretches, Barangay Ginebra flashed its never-say-die spirit against a classy counterpart bound to compete in the biggest cage tournament in the world – the FIBA World Championship.
But Jordan was too tough to crack, even during crunch time.
Sam Daghlas, the Jordanian’s do-it-all guard, came through with crucial buckets to keep the stubborn Gin Kings at bay and tow his squad to an 84-81 triumph at the start of the 2010 Smart Philippine Invitational Challenge at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium Thursday.
Parading a decimated lineup, the Jordanians squandered a 16-point, third-quarter lead, but held on to preserve a victory in this tournament organized by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
The Gin Kings, who repeatedly kept on coming back and urged by a partisan crowd, were in the thick of the fight after taking a 76-75 lead on two free throws by Enrico Villanueva with 3:26 remaining.
But Daghlas came through for the squad of Portuguese mentor Mario Palma as he scored on a reverse layup in the next play to regain the driver’s seat. He then hit two crucial jumpers, including one in front of Mike Cortez, for an 83-78 advantage with 13.8 seconds remaining.
The win put Jordan a game closer to securing a spot in the finals. The team, though, needs to get past the Smart-Gilas developmental team.
"We had key players on injured list," said Palma. “We lost four centers because of injuries while Rasheim Wright is still not in good condition after coming back from an ACL injury."
"We will be tougher. We’re playing here to show something to the Filipino people what we can do," he added.
Daghlas finished with 10 points on 4-of-10 shooting.
Burly 6-foot-8 frontliner Islam Abbaas finished with a game-high 21 points while lanky 6-foot-7 Zaid Abbas added 17 markers.
Jordan, behind the patient offense and tight defense that netted nine steals, posted its biggest lead, 61-45, as Mohammad Hadrab converted a layup off a Ginebra turnover with 2:01 left in the third.
But the Kings, who opted not to insert stars Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa while giving limited minutes on Rudy Hatfield, Eric Menk and import Denham Brown, came storming back behind Cortez, Villanueva and Sunday Salvacion.
Cortez showed flashes of old brilliance while Salvacion triggered the Kings’ rally with two triples in an 18-3 spurt.
Counting their recent setbacks in the PBA, the Gin Kings absorbed their fourth straight loss.
"I'm impressed with the quality of plays," said Palma. "Filipino players are very good, they have lot of skills, especially on shooting and they showed it in the second half."
Salvacion led Ginebra with 15 points on 5-of-7 clip from rainbow country. Cortez had 13 while Intal chipped in 10. - RCJ, gmanews.tv
Quarters: 29-13, 42-31, 65-53, 84-81
Friday, June 25, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Llamados hand Kings 3rd straight loss, bolster semis bid
Derby Ace made a strong case for the remaining outright semifinals berth in the PBA Fiesta Cup after turning its Wednesday night encounter with Barangay Ginebra into a rout, 101-83, at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Llamados easily destroyed the Kings by firing away 10 three-pointers, with Cliff Brown showing the way on a high 4-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc.
In all, the energetic import finished with 24 points and grabbed 16 rebounds as he completely outplayed Ginebra counterpart Denham Brown.
The unexpected ending to the highly-anticipated showdown between two of the league’s most popular ballclubs netted the Llamados their 12th win in 17 outings, tying them with defending champion San Miguel Beer for second place and a possible shot at the no. 2 spot for an automatic slot in the Final Four.
Chances of Derby Ace joining outright semifinalist Talk `N Text into the next round is even brighter as the Llamados have lowly Barako Bull for their final elimination round assignment on June 27.
On the other hand, the Beermen wind up their classification round assignment with a game against the Alaska Aces, who, at 11-6, still has a mathematical chance of forcing a playoff for the no. 2 slot.
“It just feels good knowing you’ve got a shot at that outright semifinals berth," said Brown later.
James Yap added 21 points and Canaleta 11 as the two nailed one three-point shot after another when the Llamados broke away for good in the third period.
Marc Pingris also had 11 and his completed three-point play in the final 1:58 pushed the Llamados to their biggest lead of the night, 97-76.
The Kings capped the eliminations with an even 9-9 card and now await whether they will advance to the quarterfinals outright or at worst, go through the wildcard phase. The Kings lost their third straight game and five of their last six.
Either Rain or Shine or Coca-Cola could forge a playoff with Ginebra for a berth in the quarterfinals in the event they sweep their remaining two games, although the two are set to clash on Sunday. Both teams carry similar 7-9 cards.
The Kings were never really in the game and played catch-up for the entire night.
Brown was a complete bust for the second straight game and the import out of University of Connecticut who once scored 111 points in a basketball match, was held down to just 15 points, including two in the third period when the Llamados went on a big offensive splurge. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
The scores:
B-Meg Derby Ace 101 - Brown 24, Yap J. 21, Canaleta 11, Pingris 11, Artadi 7, Simon 6, Adducul 6, Yap R. 5, Reavis 4, Allado 4, Maierhofer 2.
Ginebra 83 - Brown 15, Hatfield 15, Caguioa 12, Villanueva 11, Salvacion 6, Helterbrand 6, Wilson 5, Cortez 5, Miller 4, Tubid 2, De Ocampo 2.
Quarters: 26-23, 47-37, 72-57, 101-83
The Llamados easily destroyed the Kings by firing away 10 three-pointers, with Cliff Brown showing the way on a high 4-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc.
In all, the energetic import finished with 24 points and grabbed 16 rebounds as he completely outplayed Ginebra counterpart Denham Brown.
The unexpected ending to the highly-anticipated showdown between two of the league’s most popular ballclubs netted the Llamados their 12th win in 17 outings, tying them with defending champion San Miguel Beer for second place and a possible shot at the no. 2 spot for an automatic slot in the Final Four.
Chances of Derby Ace joining outright semifinalist Talk `N Text into the next round is even brighter as the Llamados have lowly Barako Bull for their final elimination round assignment on June 27.
On the other hand, the Beermen wind up their classification round assignment with a game against the Alaska Aces, who, at 11-6, still has a mathematical chance of forcing a playoff for the no. 2 slot.
“It just feels good knowing you’ve got a shot at that outright semifinals berth," said Brown later.
James Yap added 21 points and Canaleta 11 as the two nailed one three-point shot after another when the Llamados broke away for good in the third period.
Marc Pingris also had 11 and his completed three-point play in the final 1:58 pushed the Llamados to their biggest lead of the night, 97-76.
The Kings capped the eliminations with an even 9-9 card and now await whether they will advance to the quarterfinals outright or at worst, go through the wildcard phase. The Kings lost their third straight game and five of their last six.
Either Rain or Shine or Coca-Cola could forge a playoff with Ginebra for a berth in the quarterfinals in the event they sweep their remaining two games, although the two are set to clash on Sunday. Both teams carry similar 7-9 cards.
The Kings were never really in the game and played catch-up for the entire night.
Brown was a complete bust for the second straight game and the import out of University of Connecticut who once scored 111 points in a basketball match, was held down to just 15 points, including two in the third period when the Llamados went on a big offensive splurge. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
The scores:
B-Meg Derby Ace 101 - Brown 24, Yap J. 21, Canaleta 11, Pingris 11, Artadi 7, Simon 6, Adducul 6, Yap R. 5, Reavis 4, Allado 4, Maierhofer 2.
Ginebra 83 - Brown 15, Hatfield 15, Caguioa 12, Villanueva 11, Salvacion 6, Helterbrand 6, Wilson 5, Cortez 5, Miller 4, Tubid 2, De Ocampo 2.
Quarters: 26-23, 47-37, 72-57, 101-83
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Air21 moves out of cellar with squeaker over Ginebra
Air21 gained some ground again against Barako Energy Coffee in their battle for the last cut.
LeRoy Hickerson made two free throws with 11.7 seconds left then Billy Mamaril blocked a shot by Enrico Villanueva as Air21 nipped Barangay Ginebra, 98-97, to boost its wildcard bid in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.
“It’s tough getting the win which we needed so much. We wanted it badly to get some distance with Barako in our fight for the last slot in the wildcard round,” said Air21 coach Yeng Guiao.
“We’re keeping our attitude positive. We’re still very hopeful that if we make the wildcard, we’ll have a chance even against teams in the upper bracket,” Guiao added.
Avenging a similar one-point loss to the Kings in their previous tiff, the Express moved up to 4-13 -- a game behind the Sta. Lucia Realtors (5-12) and half-game in front of the Barako Energy Coffee Masters (3-13).
Air21 automatically lands in the wildcard round should Barako loses its last two games versus Talk n Text and B-MEG Derby Ace. Hickerson exploded for 33 points and 10 rebounds and drew huge support ironically from two former Ginebra players in Mamaril and Doug Kramer as they dealt the Kings a crucial loss.
Rain or Shine (7-9) and Coca-Cola (7-9) stayed in the running for the top five as Ginebra suffered an eighth loss against nine wins. Kramer came through with a career-high 17 points that went with 16 points while Mamaril got away with numerous key plays down the stretch. Mamaril, acquired recently by Air21 for Mike Cortez, spiked a seven-point game with two blocks and a big rebound down the stretch.
A blot was two missed charities in the last 5.5 seconds allowing the Kings to have a last-gasp shot. The Express eventually pulled through as Denham Brown missed a heave from midcourt at the buzzer.
It was a sorry loss for the Kings who took control most of the way behind the exploits of Mark Caguioa, Rudy Hatfield, Enrico Villanueva and Ronald Tubid. After a long chase, the Express surged ahead at 96-95 on a three-point play by Hickerson off Caguioa with 2:15 left to play.
Ginebra regained the upper hand for the last time at 97-96 on a drive by Brown before Hickerson went to the stripe and knocked in the charities sending Air21 ahead to stay with 11.7 ticks left.
“You have to give it to coach Yeng. We have the same fighting attitude. He never quits and I never quit,” said Hickerson. “We had some discussion with LeRoy before the game and it turned for the better. He’s got a different personality which may be good if we could harness or bad if not manage,” said Guiao. (SB)
The scores:
Air 21 98 - Hickerson 33, Kramer 16, Belga 11, Buenafe 9, Mamaril 7, Arboleda 7, Billones 5, Matias 4, Sharma 2, Gonzales 2, Ritualo 2, Williams 0, Alvarez 0.
Ginebra 97 - Caguioa 21, Hatfield 17, Villanueva 15, Tubid 14, Brown 11, Cortez 6, De Ocampo 5, Wilson 4, Miller 4, Intal 0, Helterbrand 0.
Quarters: 21-28, 52-57, 71-77, 98-97
LeRoy Hickerson made two free throws with 11.7 seconds left then Billy Mamaril blocked a shot by Enrico Villanueva as Air21 nipped Barangay Ginebra, 98-97, to boost its wildcard bid in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.
“It’s tough getting the win which we needed so much. We wanted it badly to get some distance with Barako in our fight for the last slot in the wildcard round,” said Air21 coach Yeng Guiao.
“We’re keeping our attitude positive. We’re still very hopeful that if we make the wildcard, we’ll have a chance even against teams in the upper bracket,” Guiao added.
Avenging a similar one-point loss to the Kings in their previous tiff, the Express moved up to 4-13 -- a game behind the Sta. Lucia Realtors (5-12) and half-game in front of the Barako Energy Coffee Masters (3-13).
Air21 automatically lands in the wildcard round should Barako loses its last two games versus Talk n Text and B-MEG Derby Ace. Hickerson exploded for 33 points and 10 rebounds and drew huge support ironically from two former Ginebra players in Mamaril and Doug Kramer as they dealt the Kings a crucial loss.
Rain or Shine (7-9) and Coca-Cola (7-9) stayed in the running for the top five as Ginebra suffered an eighth loss against nine wins. Kramer came through with a career-high 17 points that went with 16 points while Mamaril got away with numerous key plays down the stretch. Mamaril, acquired recently by Air21 for Mike Cortez, spiked a seven-point game with two blocks and a big rebound down the stretch.
A blot was two missed charities in the last 5.5 seconds allowing the Kings to have a last-gasp shot. The Express eventually pulled through as Denham Brown missed a heave from midcourt at the buzzer.
It was a sorry loss for the Kings who took control most of the way behind the exploits of Mark Caguioa, Rudy Hatfield, Enrico Villanueva and Ronald Tubid. After a long chase, the Express surged ahead at 96-95 on a three-point play by Hickerson off Caguioa with 2:15 left to play.
Ginebra regained the upper hand for the last time at 97-96 on a drive by Brown before Hickerson went to the stripe and knocked in the charities sending Air21 ahead to stay with 11.7 ticks left.
“You have to give it to coach Yeng. We have the same fighting attitude. He never quits and I never quit,” said Hickerson. “We had some discussion with LeRoy before the game and it turned for the better. He’s got a different personality which may be good if we could harness or bad if not manage,” said Guiao. (SB)
The scores:
Air 21 98 - Hickerson 33, Kramer 16, Belga 11, Buenafe 9, Mamaril 7, Arboleda 7, Billones 5, Matias 4, Sharma 2, Gonzales 2, Ritualo 2, Williams 0, Alvarez 0.
Ginebra 97 - Caguioa 21, Hatfield 17, Villanueva 15, Tubid 14, Brown 11, Cortez 6, De Ocampo 5, Wilson 4, Miller 4, Intal 0, Helterbrand 0.
Quarters: 21-28, 52-57, 71-77, 98-97
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
4 teams fight for outright PBA semis slot
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
With the first of the two outright semifinal berths in the PBA Fiesta Cup already secured by Talk ’N Text, four teams are in the running for the other one.
Defending champion San Miguel Beer, reigning Philippine Cup champion B-Meg Derby Ace, Alaska, and Barangay Ginebra are in the thick of the fight for the second automatic semis slot.
The Beermen lead the contenders with their 11-4 card win-loss card, but not far behind are the B-Meg Llamados (10-5), the Aces (9-6) and the Kings (9-7).
Talk ’N Text claimed the first outright slot with an 85-82 win over the Gabe Freeman-less SMB last Saturday in the PBA road game presented by Phoenix Fuel in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
The win extended the Tropang Texters’ winning streak to 13 for a 14-2 record.
"It's a big win for us,” TNT mentor Chot Reyes said. “Now we can relax.”
The Beermen are expected to face a rough sailing in their final game against the Aces on June 26 in Dumaguete City.
This Wednesday, the Beermen will face the Coca-Cola Tigers (6-9), who stunned the Kings (96-95) last Sunday. They will then take on the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (7-7) on Friday.
Even with its recent defeat, Ginebra still has a fighting chance to make it to the semifinals automatically although the Kings have to win their last two games against the Air21 Express (3-12) on Sunday and the Llamados on June 23.
But the fate of Ginebra won’t just fall on the hands of the Kings since a win by SMB will eliminate them in the race.
“Obviously, San Miguel has the inside track. Although they have tough games ahead, including us,” Alaska coach Tim Cone said, as his team will face Rain or Shine on Wednesday, Sta. Lucia Realty (4-11) on Sunday before taking on SMB.
“Our concern is to make the top five,” Cone said. “Once we get to the top five, we can now look at the possibility of making it to top two.
But making the top two is not really our concern.”
As for B-Meg Derby Ace, which won its last three games, including thrilling victories against San Miguel, (83-82) and Rain or Shine (86-84), the Ryan Gregorio-mentored squad will face Talk ‘N Text on Saturday in Tacloban City, then Ginebra and Barako Bull Coffee on June 27.
The teams who will be third to fifth places at the end of classification will also earn outright slots in the best-of-five quarterfinals. The sixth to ninth teams will play in the crossover knockout wildcard phase, while the 10th place team will be eliminated automatically.
Games Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5 p.m. – Coca-Cola vs San Miguel
7:30 p.m. – Rain or Shine vs Alaska
With the first of the two outright semifinal berths in the PBA Fiesta Cup already secured by Talk ’N Text, four teams are in the running for the other one.
Defending champion San Miguel Beer, reigning Philippine Cup champion B-Meg Derby Ace, Alaska, and Barangay Ginebra are in the thick of the fight for the second automatic semis slot.
The Beermen lead the contenders with their 11-4 card win-loss card, but not far behind are the B-Meg Llamados (10-5), the Aces (9-6) and the Kings (9-7).
Talk ’N Text claimed the first outright slot with an 85-82 win over the Gabe Freeman-less SMB last Saturday in the PBA road game presented by Phoenix Fuel in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
The win extended the Tropang Texters’ winning streak to 13 for a 14-2 record.
"It's a big win for us,” TNT mentor Chot Reyes said. “Now we can relax.”
The Beermen are expected to face a rough sailing in their final game against the Aces on June 26 in Dumaguete City.
This Wednesday, the Beermen will face the Coca-Cola Tigers (6-9), who stunned the Kings (96-95) last Sunday. They will then take on the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (7-7) on Friday.
Even with its recent defeat, Ginebra still has a fighting chance to make it to the semifinals automatically although the Kings have to win their last two games against the Air21 Express (3-12) on Sunday and the Llamados on June 23.
But the fate of Ginebra won’t just fall on the hands of the Kings since a win by SMB will eliminate them in the race.
“Obviously, San Miguel has the inside track. Although they have tough games ahead, including us,” Alaska coach Tim Cone said, as his team will face Rain or Shine on Wednesday, Sta. Lucia Realty (4-11) on Sunday before taking on SMB.
“Our concern is to make the top five,” Cone said. “Once we get to the top five, we can now look at the possibility of making it to top two.
But making the top two is not really our concern.”
As for B-Meg Derby Ace, which won its last three games, including thrilling victories against San Miguel, (83-82) and Rain or Shine (86-84), the Ryan Gregorio-mentored squad will face Talk ‘N Text on Saturday in Tacloban City, then Ginebra and Barako Bull Coffee on June 27.
The teams who will be third to fifth places at the end of classification will also earn outright slots in the best-of-five quarterfinals. The sixth to ninth teams will play in the crossover knockout wildcard phase, while the 10th place team will be eliminated automatically.
Games Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5 p.m. – Coca-Cola vs San Miguel
7:30 p.m. – Rain or Shine vs Alaska
Coca-Cola Tigers escape past Ginebra in a wild finish
source: gmanews.tv
John Williamson scored seven of Coca-Cola’s last 11 points and teamed up with Asi Taulava in the endgame as the Tigers pulled off a 96-95 come-from-behind win over the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings Sunday in the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Playing in his debut game, the 6-foot-6 import out of University of Cincinnati carried the load for the Tigers in the payoff period before Taulava came through with a power play off Rudy Hatfield that broke the game’s final deadlock and put Coca-Cola ahead for good, 95-93.
Williamson, coming in as a late replacement for Rashad Bell, led the Tigers with 24 points and nine rebounds. His split from the foul line with nine seconds remaining stretched the Tigers’ lead to three, 96-93, opening the door for a possible game-tying basket by the Kings.
The league’s crowd darling almost did it as Sunday Salvacion recovered the rebound off a Mark Caguioa miss, hurriedly positioned himself in deep left corner, and buried a fade-away shot with a defender’s hand on his face as the clock was ticking down.
The shot went in at the buzzer, sending the Ginebra bench in frenzy and creating pandemonium inside the playing arena.
But a review of the game tape showed one of Salvacion’s foot stepping inside the three-point area, allowing the Tigers to escape with the win after trailing by as many as 11 points in the opening half.
“This win is so significant because it builds improvement on our team. Our main focus was to improve," said coach Bo Perasol with a big sigh of relief. “I told my players to just get the process improved, either we go to the wildcard phase or the playoffs in preparation for anything."
The Tigers are now 6-9 overall as they won for the second time in three outings, enhancing further their bid for the wildcard phase.
Taulava also dominated inside with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Ginebra’s 7th loss in 16 outings formally slammed the door on its hopes of making the semifinals outright. At the most, the team’s only hope is landing an automatic berth in the quarterfinals.
Mark Caguioa led the Kings with 24 points, but committed a crucial offensive foul on Marvin Cruz with 10 seconds remaining and Ginebra just down by two.
Willie Miller added 21 and Denham Brown 20, including two free throws with 1:55 left that tied the game for the last time, 93-93. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
Scores:
Coke 96 - Williamson 24, David 16, Taulava 15, Macapagal 11, Mendoza 9, Rizada 6, Allera 5, Rodriguez 4, Espino 4, Cruz 2, Gonzales 0, Antonio 0.
Ginebra 95- Caguioa 24, Miller 21, Brown 20, De Ocampo 10, Villanueva 5, Helterbrand 5, Cortez 3, Hatfield 3, Wilson 2, Salvacion 2, Intal 0, Cruz 0, Tubid 0.
Quarter scores:22-30, 48-57, 73-69, 96-95
John Williamson scored seven of Coca-Cola’s last 11 points and teamed up with Asi Taulava in the endgame as the Tigers pulled off a 96-95 come-from-behind win over the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings Sunday in the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Playing in his debut game, the 6-foot-6 import out of University of Cincinnati carried the load for the Tigers in the payoff period before Taulava came through with a power play off Rudy Hatfield that broke the game’s final deadlock and put Coca-Cola ahead for good, 95-93.
Williamson, coming in as a late replacement for Rashad Bell, led the Tigers with 24 points and nine rebounds. His split from the foul line with nine seconds remaining stretched the Tigers’ lead to three, 96-93, opening the door for a possible game-tying basket by the Kings.
The league’s crowd darling almost did it as Sunday Salvacion recovered the rebound off a Mark Caguioa miss, hurriedly positioned himself in deep left corner, and buried a fade-away shot with a defender’s hand on his face as the clock was ticking down.
The shot went in at the buzzer, sending the Ginebra bench in frenzy and creating pandemonium inside the playing arena.
But a review of the game tape showed one of Salvacion’s foot stepping inside the three-point area, allowing the Tigers to escape with the win after trailing by as many as 11 points in the opening half.
“This win is so significant because it builds improvement on our team. Our main focus was to improve," said coach Bo Perasol with a big sigh of relief. “I told my players to just get the process improved, either we go to the wildcard phase or the playoffs in preparation for anything."
The Tigers are now 6-9 overall as they won for the second time in three outings, enhancing further their bid for the wildcard phase.
Taulava also dominated inside with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Ginebra’s 7th loss in 16 outings formally slammed the door on its hopes of making the semifinals outright. At the most, the team’s only hope is landing an automatic berth in the quarterfinals.
Mark Caguioa led the Kings with 24 points, but committed a crucial offensive foul on Marvin Cruz with 10 seconds remaining and Ginebra just down by two.
Willie Miller added 21 and Denham Brown 20, including two free throws with 1:55 left that tied the game for the last time, 93-93. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
Scores:
Coke 96 - Williamson 24, David 16, Taulava 15, Macapagal 11, Mendoza 9, Rizada 6, Allera 5, Rodriguez 4, Espino 4, Cruz 2, Gonzales 0, Antonio 0.
Ginebra 95- Caguioa 24, Miller 21, Brown 20, De Ocampo 10, Villanueva 5, Helterbrand 5, Cortez 3, Hatfield 3, Wilson 2, Salvacion 2, Intal 0, Cruz 0, Tubid 0.
Quarter scores:22-30, 48-57, 73-69, 96-95
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Ginebra gets back on track with 21-point rout of Barako Coffee
source: PBA.ph
Barangay Ginebra picked up the pieces after two jolting defeats, shredding Barako Energy Coffee, 107-86, after a slow start Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum.
Import Denham Brown scored 26 points to go with his 16 rebounds and Mark Caguio accounted for 12 of his 19 markers in the second quarter to spark a ferocious charge that put the Kings in control.
“The first quarter was terrible. Good thing the players picked up their rhythm in the second,” said Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, visibly relieved after their repeat victory against the Coffee Makers.
Their ninth win in 15 games cushioned successive losses against Rain or Shine and Talk ‘N Text and kept the Kings well within the Top 5, shoring up their hopes for an outright quarterfinal, if not outright semifinal, berth in the PBA Fiesta Conference.
“But we can’t play that way. Our upcoming games are very crucial. I don’t know if we still have a chance to make the semifinals outright. Regardless, our target right now is to get as many wins as we could to make sure we get to the playoffs,” Uichico said.
Enrico Villanueva had 12 points, Sunday Salvacion added 11 and Willie Miller contributed 10 and six assists for the Kings, who made 11 of 27 3-point shots and went 10 of 15 from the free throw line.
Eric Menk sat out his third straight game with a pulled calf muscle but the Kings still dominated the boards, 58-38.
The Kings shot just 38 percent in the first quarter and appeared in trouble when the Coffee Makers surged to a 23-11 lead on successive baskets by import Sam Monroe and Richard Alonzo.
Barako Energy Coffee held a 29-22 lead when Caguioa picked up his offensive rhythm and led a 17-7 run that shoved the Kings ahead, 39-36.
A basket by Paolo Hubalde and another by import Sam Monroe put Barako Energy Coffee back on top by two but the Kings quickly responded with an 18-3 blast for a 57-44 halftime advantage. The Coffee Makers never recovered after that.
Monroe scored 17 points and Reed Juntilla and Hubalde added 13 apiece for the Coffee Makers, who picked up their seventh consecutive loss and moved on the brink of elimination with a 3-12 card. (DBC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 107 - Brown 26, Caguioa 19, Villanueva 12, Salvacion 11, Miller 10, Hatfield 10, Tubid 7, Intal 4, Cruz 3, De Ocampo 3, Wilson 2, Ferriols 0, Helterbrand 0.
Barako Coffee 86 - Monroe 17, Juntilla 13, Hubalde 13, Dimaunahan 10, Reyes 9, Alonzo 6, Najorda 6,Isip 4, Vergara 3, Wainwright 3, Faundo 2, Duncil 0.
Quarterscores: 22-29, 57-44, 79-61, 107-86
Barangay Ginebra picked up the pieces after two jolting defeats, shredding Barako Energy Coffee, 107-86, after a slow start Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum.
Import Denham Brown scored 26 points to go with his 16 rebounds and Mark Caguio accounted for 12 of his 19 markers in the second quarter to spark a ferocious charge that put the Kings in control.
“The first quarter was terrible. Good thing the players picked up their rhythm in the second,” said Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, visibly relieved after their repeat victory against the Coffee Makers.
Their ninth win in 15 games cushioned successive losses against Rain or Shine and Talk ‘N Text and kept the Kings well within the Top 5, shoring up their hopes for an outright quarterfinal, if not outright semifinal, berth in the PBA Fiesta Conference.
“But we can’t play that way. Our upcoming games are very crucial. I don’t know if we still have a chance to make the semifinals outright. Regardless, our target right now is to get as many wins as we could to make sure we get to the playoffs,” Uichico said.
Enrico Villanueva had 12 points, Sunday Salvacion added 11 and Willie Miller contributed 10 and six assists for the Kings, who made 11 of 27 3-point shots and went 10 of 15 from the free throw line.
Eric Menk sat out his third straight game with a pulled calf muscle but the Kings still dominated the boards, 58-38.
The Kings shot just 38 percent in the first quarter and appeared in trouble when the Coffee Makers surged to a 23-11 lead on successive baskets by import Sam Monroe and Richard Alonzo.
Barako Energy Coffee held a 29-22 lead when Caguioa picked up his offensive rhythm and led a 17-7 run that shoved the Kings ahead, 39-36.
A basket by Paolo Hubalde and another by import Sam Monroe put Barako Energy Coffee back on top by two but the Kings quickly responded with an 18-3 blast for a 57-44 halftime advantage. The Coffee Makers never recovered after that.
Monroe scored 17 points and Reed Juntilla and Hubalde added 13 apiece for the Coffee Makers, who picked up their seventh consecutive loss and moved on the brink of elimination with a 3-12 card. (DBC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 107 - Brown 26, Caguioa 19, Villanueva 12, Salvacion 11, Miller 10, Hatfield 10, Tubid 7, Intal 4, Cruz 3, De Ocampo 3, Wilson 2, Ferriols 0, Helterbrand 0.
Barako Coffee 86 - Monroe 17, Juntilla 13, Hubalde 13, Dimaunahan 10, Reyes 9, Alonzo 6, Najorda 6,Isip 4, Vergara 3, Wainwright 3, Faundo 2, Duncil 0.
Quarterscores: 22-29, 57-44, 79-61, 107-86
Sunday, June 6, 2010
TNT survives Ginebra, reclaims top spot
source: abs-cbnnews.com
Talk ‘N Text survived Barangay Ginebra’s scorching rally in the final 2 minutes to hang on for a 92-84 victory Saturday night in the KFC-PBA Fiesta Cup at the Batangas City Sports Complex in Batangas City.
The Tropang Texters were comfortably ahead at 86-74 with 2:32 left in the game when the Kings, behind the hot hands of Sunday Salvacion, staged a comeback that fell short.
With the win, Talk ‘N Text extended its win streak to a franchise-best 11 games and reclaimed the top spot with 12-2 mark, just half a game ahead of San Miguel Beer (11-2).
“We have to recover because this game really took a lot from us considering we played last Wednesday and as you see, my players are cramping up,” said Texters head coach Chot Reyes.
“So, we are not thinking about Alaska right now. Our concern is to recover and be ready to play on Wednesday,” he added.
The victory also moved them to a win away of assuring a playoff for one of the two automatic semis seats. It ended Ginebra’s amazing 10-game winning run in out of town matches.
Jimmy Alapag finished with 21 points and 7 assists for TNT but suffered cramps at the end of the game. Mark Cardona and Harvey Carey contributed 14 markers apiece for the TNT, which managed to win the contest despite a 3-point output of prized recruit Kelly Williams.
New Kings’ import Denham Brown tallied 25 points while Mark Caguiao added 15. Rudy Hatfield had 12 points and 12 boards for coach Jong Uichico, whose wards dropped to 8-6.
Talk ‘N Text survived Barangay Ginebra’s scorching rally in the final 2 minutes to hang on for a 92-84 victory Saturday night in the KFC-PBA Fiesta Cup at the Batangas City Sports Complex in Batangas City.
The Tropang Texters were comfortably ahead at 86-74 with 2:32 left in the game when the Kings, behind the hot hands of Sunday Salvacion, staged a comeback that fell short.
With the win, Talk ‘N Text extended its win streak to a franchise-best 11 games and reclaimed the top spot with 12-2 mark, just half a game ahead of San Miguel Beer (11-2).
“We have to recover because this game really took a lot from us considering we played last Wednesday and as you see, my players are cramping up,” said Texters head coach Chot Reyes.
“So, we are not thinking about Alaska right now. Our concern is to recover and be ready to play on Wednesday,” he added.
The victory also moved them to a win away of assuring a playoff for one of the two automatic semis seats. It ended Ginebra’s amazing 10-game winning run in out of town matches.
Jimmy Alapag finished with 21 points and 7 assists for TNT but suffered cramps at the end of the game. Mark Cardona and Harvey Carey contributed 14 markers apiece for the TNT, which managed to win the contest despite a 3-point output of prized recruit Kelly Williams.
New Kings’ import Denham Brown tallied 25 points while Mark Caguiao added 15. Rudy Hatfield had 12 points and 12 boards for coach Jong Uichico, whose wards dropped to 8-6.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Ibañes shines as Painters hold off Kings' uprising
source: gmanews.tv
There’s no way Rain or Shine would allow Barangay Ginebra steal another game at its expense. Jireh Ibañes, the Elasto Painters’ sparkplug from the bench, made sure about that.
Ibañes scored a team-high 15 points as the Elasto Painters held tougher down the stretch in preserving an 84-83 win over the hard-fighting Kings Sunday night in the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Ibañes almost single-handedly carried the fight for Rain or Shine at the height of Ginebra’s big fourth quarter rally, accounting for the team’s final three points, including a tough drive to the basket off a transition that gave the Elasto Painters an 84-81 lead inside the final two minutes.
The Kings, who battled back from as much as 40-55 deficit early in the second half, made it a one-point game after Mark Caguioa sank the last of his game-high 28 markers with 68 seconds left.
But Ginebra failed to capitalize from there, botching its final three offensive plays, the last of which courtesy of a short Willie Miller jumper as time expired, finally putting an end to the Kings’ four-game winning run for an 8-5 card.
“This game really belongs to us," said Ibanes, reminded about the similar meeting between the two teams in the first round of the eliminations, when the Kings also came back from 16-points down and won, 100-98.
“The management and the coaching just have a complete trust in me. They told me to just wait for the right opportunity to come, and that opportunity came now," added the Rain or Shine guard, who was 6-of-8 from the field.
Ibañes averaged just 2.4 points in the Elasto Painters’ first 10 games in the eliminations, but his breakout game Sunday night allowed Rain or Shine to improve its record to 6-5.
Ibañes, the hero, almost ended up the goat as well.
After Milton Ambres missed on a corner three-pointer with 10 seconds left and the Kings down by just a point, Ibanes grabbed the rebound, scooted downcourt and was promptly fouled by Rudy Hatfield for two free throws to stop the clock.
But the Rain or Shine guard bungled the front-end of his charities, prompting him to intentionally miss the second foul throw as well.
Enrico Villanueva collared the board and called timeout, giving the Kings 1.2 seconds to go for a game-winning basket, a thing that never happened. – RCJ, GMANews.TV
The scores:
Rain or Shine 84 - Ibanes 15, Mercado 15, Norwood 13, Lewis 12, Arana 9, Tang 6, Chan 6, Reyes 5, Laure 3, Cruz 0, Hrabak 0, Telan 0.
Ginebra 83 - Caguioa 28, Ambres 20, Tubid 12, Miller 10, Wilson 3, Hatfield 3, De Ocampo 3, Mamaril 2, Helterbrand 2, Villanueva 0.
Quarters: 25-18, 49-40, 69-63, 84-83
There’s no way Rain or Shine would allow Barangay Ginebra steal another game at its expense. Jireh Ibañes, the Elasto Painters’ sparkplug from the bench, made sure about that.
Ibañes scored a team-high 15 points as the Elasto Painters held tougher down the stretch in preserving an 84-83 win over the hard-fighting Kings Sunday night in the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
Ibañes almost single-handedly carried the fight for Rain or Shine at the height of Ginebra’s big fourth quarter rally, accounting for the team’s final three points, including a tough drive to the basket off a transition that gave the Elasto Painters an 84-81 lead inside the final two minutes.
The Kings, who battled back from as much as 40-55 deficit early in the second half, made it a one-point game after Mark Caguioa sank the last of his game-high 28 markers with 68 seconds left.
But Ginebra failed to capitalize from there, botching its final three offensive plays, the last of which courtesy of a short Willie Miller jumper as time expired, finally putting an end to the Kings’ four-game winning run for an 8-5 card.
“This game really belongs to us," said Ibanes, reminded about the similar meeting between the two teams in the first round of the eliminations, when the Kings also came back from 16-points down and won, 100-98.
“The management and the coaching just have a complete trust in me. They told me to just wait for the right opportunity to come, and that opportunity came now," added the Rain or Shine guard, who was 6-of-8 from the field.
Ibañes averaged just 2.4 points in the Elasto Painters’ first 10 games in the eliminations, but his breakout game Sunday night allowed Rain or Shine to improve its record to 6-5.
Ibañes, the hero, almost ended up the goat as well.
After Milton Ambres missed on a corner three-pointer with 10 seconds left and the Kings down by just a point, Ibanes grabbed the rebound, scooted downcourt and was promptly fouled by Rudy Hatfield for two free throws to stop the clock.
But the Rain or Shine guard bungled the front-end of his charities, prompting him to intentionally miss the second foul throw as well.
Enrico Villanueva collared the board and called timeout, giving the Kings 1.2 seconds to go for a game-winning basket, a thing that never happened. – RCJ, GMANews.TV
The scores:
Rain or Shine 84 - Ibanes 15, Mercado 15, Norwood 13, Lewis 12, Arana 9, Tang 6, Chan 6, Reyes 5, Laure 3, Cruz 0, Hrabak 0, Telan 0.
Ginebra 83 - Caguioa 28, Ambres 20, Tubid 12, Miller 10, Wilson 3, Hatfield 3, De Ocampo 3, Mamaril 2, Helterbrand 2, Villanueva 0.
Quarters: 25-18, 49-40, 69-63, 84-83
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
'Miller Time' sparks Kings' triumph over streaking Beermen
source: gmanews.tv
`Miller Time’ finally put an end to the longest winning streak in the PBA Fiesta Cup.
Willie Miller played his best game in a Barangay Ginebra uniform, scoring 26 big points and guiding the Kings to a rousing 104-90 victory over defending champion San Miguel Wednesday night before a huge crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
The only guard to win the MVP title twice, Miller presided over a strong Barangay Ginebra start, and then bailed the team out of danger when the Beermen threatened for the last time coming home.
After Dondon Hontiveros put San Miguel to within 88-91 with a booming three-pointer inside the final five minutes, Miller strung up five straight points, including a quick-released three-point shot off a Mark Caguioa assist, that stretched the Ginebra lead to eight.
Milton Ambres then decided the outcome of the bruising game with another trey for a 99-88 count with 81 seconds left to play.
Acquired in a blockbuster, one-on-one trade with Alaska for Cyrus Baguio, Miller went 10-of-14 from the field and was 4-of-5 from three-point range. He also had eight assists.
“His teammates are always urging him on the offensive end, kaya sana nga mag-tuluy-tuloy na ito," said coach Jong Uichico in the post-game press conference.
Ginebra’s eight win in 12 outings put back the league’s crowd darling in solo third place.
The loss ended the nine-game winning run of the Beermen, who prior to the setback, last suffered defeat at the hands of Coca-Cola, 108-98, last March 28.
But the reigning champion remained on top with a 10-2 slate.
“We played the no.1 team, so it was really a hard-fought game. Good thing, we came up with a win tonight. Hopefully, we’ve gone over the hump," Uichico added.
Miller scored half of his total output in the opening half. His soft jumper following a behind-the-back dribble off Alex Cabagnot gave the Kings the first of their two 14-point leads in the second quarter, 60-46.
But the champion that they are, the Beermen bounced back in the third period, outscoring the Kings in the first six minutes of the second half, 19-4, to take the upperhand, 67-66.
The Kings, however, regained the lead at 78-77, entering the final quarter.
Ambres added 16 points, Eric Menk had 14 and Caguiao chipped in 12 as the Kings won for the third straight time.
Gabe Freeman, recipient of a flagrant foul courtesy of Enrico Villanueva in the third period, finished with 19 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Beermen, while Santos had 16, the last of which broke San Miguel’s silence in the stretch run but not enough to turn the game around, 101-90, with less than a minute remaining.
Jay Washington, engaged in a jawing incident with Willie Wilson in the final 3:54, and Hontiveros each had 12 for the defending champion. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
`Miller Time’ finally put an end to the longest winning streak in the PBA Fiesta Cup.
Willie Miller played his best game in a Barangay Ginebra uniform, scoring 26 big points and guiding the Kings to a rousing 104-90 victory over defending champion San Miguel Wednesday night before a huge crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
The only guard to win the MVP title twice, Miller presided over a strong Barangay Ginebra start, and then bailed the team out of danger when the Beermen threatened for the last time coming home.
After Dondon Hontiveros put San Miguel to within 88-91 with a booming three-pointer inside the final five minutes, Miller strung up five straight points, including a quick-released three-point shot off a Mark Caguioa assist, that stretched the Ginebra lead to eight.
Milton Ambres then decided the outcome of the bruising game with another trey for a 99-88 count with 81 seconds left to play.
Acquired in a blockbuster, one-on-one trade with Alaska for Cyrus Baguio, Miller went 10-of-14 from the field and was 4-of-5 from three-point range. He also had eight assists.
“His teammates are always urging him on the offensive end, kaya sana nga mag-tuluy-tuloy na ito," said coach Jong Uichico in the post-game press conference.
Ginebra’s eight win in 12 outings put back the league’s crowd darling in solo third place.
The loss ended the nine-game winning run of the Beermen, who prior to the setback, last suffered defeat at the hands of Coca-Cola, 108-98, last March 28.
But the reigning champion remained on top with a 10-2 slate.
“We played the no.1 team, so it was really a hard-fought game. Good thing, we came up with a win tonight. Hopefully, we’ve gone over the hump," Uichico added.
Miller scored half of his total output in the opening half. His soft jumper following a behind-the-back dribble off Alex Cabagnot gave the Kings the first of their two 14-point leads in the second quarter, 60-46.
But the champion that they are, the Beermen bounced back in the third period, outscoring the Kings in the first six minutes of the second half, 19-4, to take the upperhand, 67-66.
The Kings, however, regained the lead at 78-77, entering the final quarter.
Ambres added 16 points, Eric Menk had 14 and Caguiao chipped in 12 as the Kings won for the third straight time.
Gabe Freeman, recipient of a flagrant foul courtesy of Enrico Villanueva in the third period, finished with 19 points and 17 rebounds to lead the Beermen, while Santos had 16, the last of which broke San Miguel’s silence in the stretch run but not enough to turn the game around, 101-90, with less than a minute remaining.
Jay Washington, engaged in a jawing incident with Willie Wilson in the final 3:54, and Hontiveros each had 12 for the defending champion. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
Sunday, May 23, 2010
KINGS GET BACK AT ACES WITH COME-FROM-BEHIND WIN
source PBA.PH
Live ScoreListen LivePBATeamsNewsScheduleResultsStatsVideoPhotosForumPBA StoreTicketsKINGS GET BACK AT ACES WITH COME-FROM-BEHIND WIN
Sun, 05/23/2010 - 00:03
CEBU CITY – In a gambit that paid off, Barangay Ginebra played all-Filipino in the homestretch and stunned Alaska Milk with a lightning attack leading to a sweet revenge.
The Kings, behind a big endgame run, got back at the Aces, 105-93, in their rematch in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round at the Cebu Coliseum here Saturday night.
“We just kept on fighting, fighting and fighting. Things turned around at the right time,” said head coach Jong Uichico as his troops topped the Aces in the Cebu stop of the Phoenix Fuel PBA On Tour.
“We just didn’t give up. Our players played their hearts out and that’s just the way the Ginebra team should play come what may,” added Uichico as they avenged an 81-86 defeat to the Aces in their initial tiff and, thus, gained solo third in the standings with a 7-4 win-loss card.
Baffled at endgame, the Aces slid from joint third down to fifth with a 6-5 card.
Eric Menk, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid, Willie Miller and Willie Wilson worked on a decisive closing run that carried the Kings to a third win in a row – the team’s longest streak in the tourney thus far.
The Fiesta Conference champs two seasons ago, the Kings closed out with a 19-2 attack curiously after coach Uichico decided to take import Mildon Ambres out for good following back-to-back lapses that allowed the Aces to get a five-point lead, 91-86, with 3:43 left to play.
With Ambres on the bench, the Kings employed a stifling defense, holding the Aces scoreless for over three minutes.
When the Aces broke the spell through a layup by LA Tenorio, the game was already beyond reach, 93-102, with time down to 28 seconds..
Tubid banged away a three-pointer, Miller canned two free throws, Wilson made a short stab and Tubid had another triple that sent Barangay Ginebra ahead at 96-91.
And there was no stopping the Kings as they roared on to halt the Aces’ own two-game romp.
Menk pumped in a personal conference-high of 25 points, including a booming trey that sealed their win at 101-91 with 42 ticks left.
Caguioa added 20 while Miller and Jayjay Helterbrand chipped in 12 apiece as the Kings engaged the Aces in a battle despite Ambres’ so-so game.
Simpson showed up Ambres with the former finishing with 24 points against the latter’s 10.
Cyrus Baguio had another sterling game versus his former team but he himself lost his touch at the finish.
It was a sorry loss for the Aces who took control most of the second half, leading by 12 points on back-to-back three-pointers by Larry Fonacier at the start of the payoff period.
Helterbrand and Miller ignited a run that brought the Kings to within one at 86-87 with 4:39 left.
Then Simpson pounced on defensive breakdowns by Ambres, coming through with a four-point binge that gave the Aces their 91-86 margin. (SB)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 105 – Menk 25, Caguioa 20, Miller 12, Helterbrand 12, Ambres 10, Tubid 9, Hatfield 8, Villanueva 4, De Ocampo 3, Wilson 2, Cruz 0.
Alaska 93 – Simpson 24, Baguio 17, Dela Cruz 11, Devance 11, Tenorio 9, Thoss 7, Fonacier 6, Borboran 4, Eman 2, Hugnatan 2, Dela Pena 0.
Quarterscores: 25-20, 46-50, 69-75, 105-93
Live ScoreListen LivePBATeamsNewsScheduleResultsStatsVideoPhotosForumPBA StoreTicketsKINGS GET BACK AT ACES WITH COME-FROM-BEHIND WIN
Sun, 05/23/2010 - 00:03
CEBU CITY – In a gambit that paid off, Barangay Ginebra played all-Filipino in the homestretch and stunned Alaska Milk with a lightning attack leading to a sweet revenge.
The Kings, behind a big endgame run, got back at the Aces, 105-93, in their rematch in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round at the Cebu Coliseum here Saturday night.
“We just kept on fighting, fighting and fighting. Things turned around at the right time,” said head coach Jong Uichico as his troops topped the Aces in the Cebu stop of the Phoenix Fuel PBA On Tour.
“We just didn’t give up. Our players played their hearts out and that’s just the way the Ginebra team should play come what may,” added Uichico as they avenged an 81-86 defeat to the Aces in their initial tiff and, thus, gained solo third in the standings with a 7-4 win-loss card.
Baffled at endgame, the Aces slid from joint third down to fifth with a 6-5 card.
Eric Menk, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid, Willie Miller and Willie Wilson worked on a decisive closing run that carried the Kings to a third win in a row – the team’s longest streak in the tourney thus far.
The Fiesta Conference champs two seasons ago, the Kings closed out with a 19-2 attack curiously after coach Uichico decided to take import Mildon Ambres out for good following back-to-back lapses that allowed the Aces to get a five-point lead, 91-86, with 3:43 left to play.
With Ambres on the bench, the Kings employed a stifling defense, holding the Aces scoreless for over three minutes.
When the Aces broke the spell through a layup by LA Tenorio, the game was already beyond reach, 93-102, with time down to 28 seconds..
Tubid banged away a three-pointer, Miller canned two free throws, Wilson made a short stab and Tubid had another triple that sent Barangay Ginebra ahead at 96-91.
And there was no stopping the Kings as they roared on to halt the Aces’ own two-game romp.
Menk pumped in a personal conference-high of 25 points, including a booming trey that sealed their win at 101-91 with 42 ticks left.
Caguioa added 20 while Miller and Jayjay Helterbrand chipped in 12 apiece as the Kings engaged the Aces in a battle despite Ambres’ so-so game.
Simpson showed up Ambres with the former finishing with 24 points against the latter’s 10.
Cyrus Baguio had another sterling game versus his former team but he himself lost his touch at the finish.
It was a sorry loss for the Aces who took control most of the second half, leading by 12 points on back-to-back three-pointers by Larry Fonacier at the start of the payoff period.
Helterbrand and Miller ignited a run that brought the Kings to within one at 86-87 with 4:39 left.
Then Simpson pounced on defensive breakdowns by Ambres, coming through with a four-point binge that gave the Aces their 91-86 margin. (SB)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 105 – Menk 25, Caguioa 20, Miller 12, Helterbrand 12, Ambres 10, Tubid 9, Hatfield 8, Villanueva 4, De Ocampo 3, Wilson 2, Cruz 0.
Alaska 93 – Simpson 24, Baguio 17, Dela Cruz 11, Devance 11, Tenorio 9, Thoss 7, Fonacier 6, Borboran 4, Eman 2, Hugnatan 2, Dela Pena 0.
Quarterscores: 25-20, 46-50, 69-75, 105-93
Monday, May 17, 2010
PBA Player of the Week: Menk sparks rise of the Kings
source: gmanews.tv
There are ony two Most Valuable Players for the Baragay Ginebra Gin Kings – Eric Menk and Jayjay Helterbrand.
But only one them played true to form.
At a tiem when the Gin Kings needed a quick turnaround to keep their season going, Menk provided the spark to be chosen as the hands down choice of the PBA Press Corps as the Player of the Week for May 10 to 16.
Menk beat Williams, who was traded to Talk N Text recently, for the honors.
The man known as Major Pain averaged 16.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists that approximated his numbers during his 2004-05 MVP for season.
Not bad for a 35-year-old, who went into the week averaging just 7.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in Ginebra’s first eight games in the Fiesta Conference.
Now, the Kings are safely ensconced at fourth-running spot with a 6-4 win-loss record and Menk is undeniably a big factor.
Uichico rightfully maintains it is his most senior player setting the tone for the rest of the team.
“He has been working extra hard to be in the best shape possible and is so focused on his game," said the multi-titled tactician.
It was the moment the Gin Kings were waiting for. The team was uncharacteristically scrambling coming into the week, having lost three of their its last four games. Even the squad’s lone win was nothing to brag about, barely squeaking past another struggling team in Air21, 101-100, last May 5.
Then came Menk’s 20-point explosion against Barako Coffee that was capped by six points in a 12-0 windup, tiding the Kings over from an 81-90 deficit and deficit and into a 93-90 win last Wednesday.
“The other guys were looking for me and luckily my shots went in," said Menk. “It was an escape, but it's good we came out with the win."
It was also a good morale and confidence builder as Ginebra went on to handily beat Sta. Lucia, 102-85, last Sunday, marking the first time in four meetings this season the Kings won over the Realtors.
With Mildon Ambres, Ronald Tubid and Jayjay Helterbrand showing the way, Menk was content with a 12-point, eight-rebound production. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
There are ony two Most Valuable Players for the Baragay Ginebra Gin Kings – Eric Menk and Jayjay Helterbrand.
But only one them played true to form.
At a tiem when the Gin Kings needed a quick turnaround to keep their season going, Menk provided the spark to be chosen as the hands down choice of the PBA Press Corps as the Player of the Week for May 10 to 16.
Menk beat Williams, who was traded to Talk N Text recently, for the honors.
The man known as Major Pain averaged 16.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists that approximated his numbers during his 2004-05 MVP for season.
Not bad for a 35-year-old, who went into the week averaging just 7.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in Ginebra’s first eight games in the Fiesta Conference.
Now, the Kings are safely ensconced at fourth-running spot with a 6-4 win-loss record and Menk is undeniably a big factor.
Uichico rightfully maintains it is his most senior player setting the tone for the rest of the team.
“He has been working extra hard to be in the best shape possible and is so focused on his game," said the multi-titled tactician.
It was the moment the Gin Kings were waiting for. The team was uncharacteristically scrambling coming into the week, having lost three of their its last four games. Even the squad’s lone win was nothing to brag about, barely squeaking past another struggling team in Air21, 101-100, last May 5.
Then came Menk’s 20-point explosion against Barako Coffee that was capped by six points in a 12-0 windup, tiding the Kings over from an 81-90 deficit and deficit and into a 93-90 win last Wednesday.
“The other guys were looking for me and luckily my shots went in," said Menk. “It was an escape, but it's good we came out with the win."
It was also a good morale and confidence builder as Ginebra went on to handily beat Sta. Lucia, 102-85, last Sunday, marking the first time in four meetings this season the Kings won over the Realtors.
With Mildon Ambres, Ronald Tubid and Jayjay Helterbrand showing the way, Menk was content with a 12-point, eight-rebound production. - RCJ, GMANews.TV
PLAYING OLD FIRE, GINEBRA ROUTS NEW-LOOK STA. LUCIA
source:pba.ph
Sun, 05/16/2010 - 18:59
FOR once in quite a while, Barangay Ginebra displayed some of its old fire.
That, and the fact Sta. Lucia Realty was still trying to adjust playing without two of its most prized players, led to the Kings' 102-85 victory Sunday in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.
Mildon Ambres and Ronald Tubid led the Ginebra players who mostly provided the sustaining fire as the Kings not only started the second round of eliminations on a bright note but also broke the spell SLR has cast on it this season.
“At least we saw something positive in today's game. They (Kings) played more as a team today. They tried their very best and showed fire,” said Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, whose team barely won two of its last three games, struggling in both.
Things were drastically different Sunday night as the Kings dominated from start to finish, even leading by 23 points twice, en route to improving their win-loss record to 6-4.
Uichico, however, quickly pointed out SLR is still trying to adjust from the trade sealed last Wednesday that saw Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes being shipped to Talk ‘N Text.
The absence of the two, who combined to average 32.0 points, 21.3 rebounds, 8.6 assists, 2.7 steals and 1.0 blocks in three previous wins against Ginebra this season, was clearly a factor and tempered Ginebra's jubilation.
“It's hard to make this a judgment day, kasi nawalan ng players ang Sta. Lucia. Those two are the core of their team,” Uichico pointed out.
Yet Uichico is also aware his team may have gained some momentum.
“We have tough games coming up, against Alaska and San Miguel Beer, so kailangan we should build on this win, keep on improving,” he said.
Adjustment is also the operating word for the Realtors, who dropped to a 4-6 slate.
“We have so many things to adjust,” said SLR coach Boyet Fernandez, whose team drew a game-high 31 points and nine rebounds from Anthony Johnson but got outrebounded 40-53.
“We've got a lot to learn in our defensive rotation,” he added. “Hindi pa nag-click sa rotation, at kailangan pa ang konting adjustment, execution-wise sa mga bagong dating.”
Marlou Aquino's grandfather also passed away in Pangasinan recently, preventing him from joining practice for two days. But there were some bright notes, like Yousif Aljamal draining four triples for 12 points and Ali Peek hauling down seven rebounds.
But those are overshadowed by the fact that Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa and Eric Menk each had at least 12 points, while Rudy Hatfield added on to anchoring the defense on Johnson by snaring 10 rebounds for Barangay Ginebra.
The Kings also shot 50 percent from the floor, the percentage pulled down a bit by its 11-for-24 clip from beyond the arc.
Tubid going a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point land and Ambres and Helterbrand adding three triples each helped Barangay Ginebra pull away, although it was Caguioa's fastbreak layup that made it a 93-70 count, 4:29 left.
That proved enough to put a stamp on Barangay Ginebra's total domination of the second half and quash whatever drive the Realtors may still have had.
It was a different story in the first two quarters.
With Tubid scoring eight straight points during a 13-4 run to start the second period, the Kings seemed well on their way to a runaway win.
Those thoughts quickly vanished when Aljamal came in to drain three triples and, with help from Johnson and Gabby Espinas (13 points), led SLR in whittling the deficit to just 37-48.
It took another trey by Tubid before Barangay Ginebra had a 51-37 halftime lead it sustained to 77-63 going into the fourth period, mainly due to Ambres' 14 third quarter points. (NC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 102 - Ambres 21, Tubid 17, Helterbrand 17, Caguioa 12, Menk 12, Hatfield 7, Villanueva 6, Wilson 5, Miller 2, De Ocampo 2, Cruz 1
Sta. Lucia 85 - Johnson 31, Espinas 13, Aljamal 12, Mendoza 11, Omolon 5, Peek 5, Belasco 4, Escobal 2, Aquino 2, Urbiztondo 0, Menor 0, Belano 0
Quarterscores: 27-13, 51-37, 77-63, 102-85.
Sun, 05/16/2010 - 18:59
FOR once in quite a while, Barangay Ginebra displayed some of its old fire.
That, and the fact Sta. Lucia Realty was still trying to adjust playing without two of its most prized players, led to the Kings' 102-85 victory Sunday in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.
Mildon Ambres and Ronald Tubid led the Ginebra players who mostly provided the sustaining fire as the Kings not only started the second round of eliminations on a bright note but also broke the spell SLR has cast on it this season.
“At least we saw something positive in today's game. They (Kings) played more as a team today. They tried their very best and showed fire,” said Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, whose team barely won two of its last three games, struggling in both.
Things were drastically different Sunday night as the Kings dominated from start to finish, even leading by 23 points twice, en route to improving their win-loss record to 6-4.
Uichico, however, quickly pointed out SLR is still trying to adjust from the trade sealed last Wednesday that saw Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes being shipped to Talk ‘N Text.
The absence of the two, who combined to average 32.0 points, 21.3 rebounds, 8.6 assists, 2.7 steals and 1.0 blocks in three previous wins against Ginebra this season, was clearly a factor and tempered Ginebra's jubilation.
“It's hard to make this a judgment day, kasi nawalan ng players ang Sta. Lucia. Those two are the core of their team,” Uichico pointed out.
Yet Uichico is also aware his team may have gained some momentum.
“We have tough games coming up, against Alaska and San Miguel Beer, so kailangan we should build on this win, keep on improving,” he said.
Adjustment is also the operating word for the Realtors, who dropped to a 4-6 slate.
“We have so many things to adjust,” said SLR coach Boyet Fernandez, whose team drew a game-high 31 points and nine rebounds from Anthony Johnson but got outrebounded 40-53.
“We've got a lot to learn in our defensive rotation,” he added. “Hindi pa nag-click sa rotation, at kailangan pa ang konting adjustment, execution-wise sa mga bagong dating.”
Marlou Aquino's grandfather also passed away in Pangasinan recently, preventing him from joining practice for two days. But there were some bright notes, like Yousif Aljamal draining four triples for 12 points and Ali Peek hauling down seven rebounds.
But those are overshadowed by the fact that Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa and Eric Menk each had at least 12 points, while Rudy Hatfield added on to anchoring the defense on Johnson by snaring 10 rebounds for Barangay Ginebra.
The Kings also shot 50 percent from the floor, the percentage pulled down a bit by its 11-for-24 clip from beyond the arc.
Tubid going a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point land and Ambres and Helterbrand adding three triples each helped Barangay Ginebra pull away, although it was Caguioa's fastbreak layup that made it a 93-70 count, 4:29 left.
That proved enough to put a stamp on Barangay Ginebra's total domination of the second half and quash whatever drive the Realtors may still have had.
It was a different story in the first two quarters.
With Tubid scoring eight straight points during a 13-4 run to start the second period, the Kings seemed well on their way to a runaway win.
Those thoughts quickly vanished when Aljamal came in to drain three triples and, with help from Johnson and Gabby Espinas (13 points), led SLR in whittling the deficit to just 37-48.
It took another trey by Tubid before Barangay Ginebra had a 51-37 halftime lead it sustained to 77-63 going into the fourth period, mainly due to Ambres' 14 third quarter points. (NC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 102 - Ambres 21, Tubid 17, Helterbrand 17, Caguioa 12, Menk 12, Hatfield 7, Villanueva 6, Wilson 5, Miller 2, De Ocampo 2, Cruz 1
Sta. Lucia 85 - Johnson 31, Espinas 13, Aljamal 12, Mendoza 11, Omolon 5, Peek 5, Belasco 4, Escobal 2, Aquino 2, Urbiztondo 0, Menor 0, Belano 0
Quarterscores: 27-13, 51-37, 77-63, 102-85.
Monday, May 10, 2010
B-MEG DERBY ACE BREAKS OUT OF LOGJAM, NOW IN SOLO 3RD
source: PBA.PH
Sun, 05/09/2010 - 22:22
Defensive demon B-MEG Derby Ace pulled together a solid job on both ends of the court Sunday night, blasting Barangay Ginebra, 95-82, to gain solo third place in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum. The Llamados, the league’s best defensive team but dead last in scoring, came through with their best offensive effort since their Philippine Cup title conquest, beating the Kings for their fifth win in eight games. James Yap, Cliff Brown, Nino Canaleta, Rafi Reavis and Don Allado tossed in double-digit outputs as Derby Ace relegated Ginebra to fifth place with a 4-4 card. Averaging only 82.14 before the game, the Llamados made big improvement in this contest on a 42.6-percent clip. “We really did what’s required defensively, and we made sure to see progress on our offense,” said Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio. “That’s something we’re really working on – scoring. It’s a relief that my players are getting challenged and rising to the occasion,” Gregorio added. Yap rifled in 17 points while Canaleta, Reavis and Allado added 10 apiece as the Llamados took control most of the way even with their import getting into foul-trouble situation early. “Early fouls on our import gave me some anxious moments in the game, but the locals were determined to play and see us through,” said Gregorio. “It’s nice to win games especially against quality teams like Ginebra, and hopefully we continue to get going,” Gregorio added. The Kings couldn’t keep up with the Llamados in the final half, going 1-2 with import Mildon Ambres. After Ambres took a long three-point attempt that didn’t hit anything with 5:02 left, coach Jong Uichico opted to play with an all-Filipino crew the rest of the way. The crowd booed Ambres as he was heading to the bench with Ginebra down by 10 at 74-84. The Kings came within seven, 82-89, on a five-point swing by Willie Miller before Rafi Reavis delivered the killer blow on Ginebra on a thunderous slam on a lob pass by Rico Maierhofer. Brown finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds while Ambres ended up with 17 points and the same number of rebounds. (SB) The scores: Derby Ace 95 - Yap. J 17, Brown 13, Canaleta 10, Reavis 10, Allado 10, Simon 9, Yap R. 9, Pingris 7, Maierhofer 6, Artadi 2, Adducul 2, Timberlake 0. Ginebra 82 - Ambres 17, Menk 12, Miller 10, Hatfield 10, Tubid 7, Helterbrand 7, Villanueva 6, De Ocampo 6, Cruz 5, Wilson 2. Quarters: 23-27, 49-46, 73-63, 95-82
Sun, 05/09/2010 - 22:22
Defensive demon B-MEG Derby Ace pulled together a solid job on both ends of the court Sunday night, blasting Barangay Ginebra, 95-82, to gain solo third place in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum. The Llamados, the league’s best defensive team but dead last in scoring, came through with their best offensive effort since their Philippine Cup title conquest, beating the Kings for their fifth win in eight games. James Yap, Cliff Brown, Nino Canaleta, Rafi Reavis and Don Allado tossed in double-digit outputs as Derby Ace relegated Ginebra to fifth place with a 4-4 card. Averaging only 82.14 before the game, the Llamados made big improvement in this contest on a 42.6-percent clip. “We really did what’s required defensively, and we made sure to see progress on our offense,” said Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio. “That’s something we’re really working on – scoring. It’s a relief that my players are getting challenged and rising to the occasion,” Gregorio added. Yap rifled in 17 points while Canaleta, Reavis and Allado added 10 apiece as the Llamados took control most of the way even with their import getting into foul-trouble situation early. “Early fouls on our import gave me some anxious moments in the game, but the locals were determined to play and see us through,” said Gregorio. “It’s nice to win games especially against quality teams like Ginebra, and hopefully we continue to get going,” Gregorio added. The Kings couldn’t keep up with the Llamados in the final half, going 1-2 with import Mildon Ambres. After Ambres took a long three-point attempt that didn’t hit anything with 5:02 left, coach Jong Uichico opted to play with an all-Filipino crew the rest of the way. The crowd booed Ambres as he was heading to the bench with Ginebra down by 10 at 74-84. The Kings came within seven, 82-89, on a five-point swing by Willie Miller before Rafi Reavis delivered the killer blow on Ginebra on a thunderous slam on a lob pass by Rico Maierhofer. Brown finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds while Ambres ended up with 17 points and the same number of rebounds. (SB) The scores: Derby Ace 95 - Yap. J 17, Brown 13, Canaleta 10, Reavis 10, Allado 10, Simon 9, Yap R. 9, Pingris 7, Maierhofer 6, Artadi 2, Adducul 2, Timberlake 0. Ginebra 82 - Ambres 17, Menk 12, Miller 10, Hatfield 10, Tubid 7, Helterbrand 7, Villanueva 6, De Ocampo 6, Cruz 5, Wilson 2. Quarters: 23-27, 49-46, 73-63, 95-82
CAGUIOA SITS 1 GAME, FINED 20K FOR THROWING BALL AT REF
source: PBA.PH
Sat, 05/08/2010 - 10:33
Barangay Ginebra shooting guard Mark Caguioa has been suspended for one game for throwing the ball at a game official during the Kings-Air21 Express match last Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Philippine Basketball Basketball Association Commissioner Sonny Barrios, who handed the decision yesterday, also fined Caguioa P20,000.
Caguioa will serve his suspension on Sunday when the Kings play the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados.
Barrios said he painstakingly tried to appreciate the explanation of Caguioa on the incident but emphasized the league rules on “the action and not the intention.”
In his letter to Caguioa, the Commissioner noted that there is strong video footage evidence showing that he had first looked at and seen referee Throngy Aldaba before actually throwing the ball at him. It would therefore be difficult to accept Caguioa’s contention that he was surprised to see referee Aldaba there, and he didn’t see he was bouncing the ball off a game official.
But even if Caguioa claimed he thought he was bouncing the ball off an opponent, Commissioner Barrios noted that the normal and legitimate way of bouncing off the ball against an opponent to retain possession is to bounce it off against the lower portion/extremities of the body (from knee down). However, Caguioa bounced the ball off the person’s chest – an act classified as Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 (FFP2) under the PBA Playing rules.
Barrios also cited a recent case involving Alaska’s Brandon Cablay, who was slapped a similar punishment after playfully tossing the ball and hitting his friend Air21 guard Mike Cortez.
“We cannot rule on intentions of offenders as it would be dangerous to read one’s intentions. Instead, we rule on one’s actions,” Barrios told Caguioa in his letter.
“Was the ball thrown at the referee? Was the referee hit by the ball? “
Those two questions, Barrios said, are the compelling determinants if the playing rule has been violated or not.
more top stories
Sat, 05/08/2010 - 10:33
Barangay Ginebra shooting guard Mark Caguioa has been suspended for one game for throwing the ball at a game official during the Kings-Air21 Express match last Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Philippine Basketball Basketball Association Commissioner Sonny Barrios, who handed the decision yesterday, also fined Caguioa P20,000.
Caguioa will serve his suspension on Sunday when the Kings play the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados.
Barrios said he painstakingly tried to appreciate the explanation of Caguioa on the incident but emphasized the league rules on “the action and not the intention.”
In his letter to Caguioa, the Commissioner noted that there is strong video footage evidence showing that he had first looked at and seen referee Throngy Aldaba before actually throwing the ball at him. It would therefore be difficult to accept Caguioa’s contention that he was surprised to see referee Aldaba there, and he didn’t see he was bouncing the ball off a game official.
But even if Caguioa claimed he thought he was bouncing the ball off an opponent, Commissioner Barrios noted that the normal and legitimate way of bouncing off the ball against an opponent to retain possession is to bounce it off against the lower portion/extremities of the body (from knee down). However, Caguioa bounced the ball off the person’s chest – an act classified as Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 (FFP2) under the PBA Playing rules.
Barrios also cited a recent case involving Alaska’s Brandon Cablay, who was slapped a similar punishment after playfully tossing the ball and hitting his friend Air21 guard Mike Cortez.
“We cannot rule on intentions of offenders as it would be dangerous to read one’s intentions. Instead, we rule on one’s actions,” Barrios told Caguioa in his letter.
“Was the ball thrown at the referee? Was the referee hit by the ball? “
Those two questions, Barrios said, are the compelling determinants if the playing rule has been violated or not.
more top stories
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Ginebra snatch one-point win over Air21
source: PBA.ph
Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico did not hesitate to admit they were just lucky. The Kings salvaged a 101-100 decision past Air 21 Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum only because Express reserve guard Ronnie Matias missed a potential game winner at the buzzer.
“It was a lost game. We were just lucky,” proclaimed the low-keyed Uichico of the game that turned exciting in the closing minutes as the Express, who blew a 15-point advantage rallied from a 12-points deficit in the last four minutes and nearly pulled off a Houdini.
The breathtaking victory enabled the Kings to snap a two-game losing skid and improved to 4-3 (win-loss) record.
Import Mildon Ambers showed some improvement in his second game, scoring 26 points that went with his 18 rebounds. Eric Menk had 19 points and Willie Miller added 12, including two free throws with 2:10 remaining that turned out to be the insurance baskets for the Kings, who played the final two and a quarters without shooter Mark Caguioa.
Caguioa was tossed from the game with 5:07 to play in the second quarter for throwing the ball at referee Throngee Aldaba during a transition play.
“The team per se is struggling at this point. So every win while we are trying to find the right way is very important,” Uichico said.
The Kings looked like goners when they fell behind by 15 points late in the third quarter.
But things turned in their favor in the fourth as the Express, who dominated the game for most part, experienced some offensive meltdown in a span of ten and a half minutes that saw them missing 14 straight field goal attempts while succumbing to five turnovers.
The Kings capitalized on it. With Ambers and Menk hitting their range, the Kings outscored the Express, 23-3, to build a 97-85 lead with 4:49 to go.
Although the pressure shifted to their side, the Express still didn’t lose heart.
They made crucial stops and Ronjay Buenafe knocked in crucial baskets as the Express pulled to within 100-101 on a lay-up by import by Reggie Larry with 76 seconds remaining.
The Kings also appeared to have sealed the game when Larry fouled out with 33.5 seconds to play.
But in the ensuing play Menk missed a shot in the lane and Mike Cortez stole the ball from Ambers and quickly fed the open Matias. The sophomore guard took a shot from eight feet at the right corner.
The ball bounced off the rim a couple of times before falling out as time expired.
“We played a good game. Our imports played well. The locals also played well. The game was just stolen from us…,” said Air21 coach Yeng Guiao, who had his worst start for the first time since losing 10 of his first 11 games with Red Bull during its first conference in the league in the 2000 All-Filipino Conference.
Larry finished with 30 points and had 15 rebounds. Buenafe accounted for 24 including 6 for 11 from the 3-point range and Beau Belga added 13 for the Express, who picked up their sixth straight loss and fell deeper in the team standings with its 1-7 slate. (DBC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 101 - Ambres 26, Menk 19, Miller 12, Caguioa 10, Tubid 9, Wilson 8, Villanueva 6, Helterbrand 6, Hatfield 5, Cruz 0, De Ocampo 0.
Air21 100 - Larry 30, Buenafe 24, Belga 13, Gonzales 7, Cortez 7, Sharma 4, Rodriguez 3, Kramer 3, Ritualo 3, Williams 2, Matias 2, Alvarez 2, Billones 0.
Quarterscores: 26-30, 55-63, 74-82, 101-100.
Barangay Ginebra coach Jong Uichico did not hesitate to admit they were just lucky. The Kings salvaged a 101-100 decision past Air 21 Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum only because Express reserve guard Ronnie Matias missed a potential game winner at the buzzer.
“It was a lost game. We were just lucky,” proclaimed the low-keyed Uichico of the game that turned exciting in the closing minutes as the Express, who blew a 15-point advantage rallied from a 12-points deficit in the last four minutes and nearly pulled off a Houdini.
The breathtaking victory enabled the Kings to snap a two-game losing skid and improved to 4-3 (win-loss) record.
Import Mildon Ambers showed some improvement in his second game, scoring 26 points that went with his 18 rebounds. Eric Menk had 19 points and Willie Miller added 12, including two free throws with 2:10 remaining that turned out to be the insurance baskets for the Kings, who played the final two and a quarters without shooter Mark Caguioa.
Caguioa was tossed from the game with 5:07 to play in the second quarter for throwing the ball at referee Throngee Aldaba during a transition play.
“The team per se is struggling at this point. So every win while we are trying to find the right way is very important,” Uichico said.
The Kings looked like goners when they fell behind by 15 points late in the third quarter.
But things turned in their favor in the fourth as the Express, who dominated the game for most part, experienced some offensive meltdown in a span of ten and a half minutes that saw them missing 14 straight field goal attempts while succumbing to five turnovers.
The Kings capitalized on it. With Ambers and Menk hitting their range, the Kings outscored the Express, 23-3, to build a 97-85 lead with 4:49 to go.
Although the pressure shifted to their side, the Express still didn’t lose heart.
They made crucial stops and Ronjay Buenafe knocked in crucial baskets as the Express pulled to within 100-101 on a lay-up by import by Reggie Larry with 76 seconds remaining.
The Kings also appeared to have sealed the game when Larry fouled out with 33.5 seconds to play.
But in the ensuing play Menk missed a shot in the lane and Mike Cortez stole the ball from Ambers and quickly fed the open Matias. The sophomore guard took a shot from eight feet at the right corner.
The ball bounced off the rim a couple of times before falling out as time expired.
“We played a good game. Our imports played well. The locals also played well. The game was just stolen from us…,” said Air21 coach Yeng Guiao, who had his worst start for the first time since losing 10 of his first 11 games with Red Bull during its first conference in the league in the 2000 All-Filipino Conference.
Larry finished with 30 points and had 15 rebounds. Buenafe accounted for 24 including 6 for 11 from the 3-point range and Beau Belga added 13 for the Express, who picked up their sixth straight loss and fell deeper in the team standings with its 1-7 slate. (DBC)
The scores:
Barangay Ginebra 101 - Ambres 26, Menk 19, Miller 12, Caguioa 10, Tubid 9, Wilson 8, Villanueva 6, Helterbrand 6, Hatfield 5, Cruz 0, De Ocampo 0.
Air21 100 - Larry 30, Buenafe 24, Belga 13, Gonzales 7, Cortez 7, Sharma 4, Rodriguez 3, Kramer 3, Ritualo 3, Williams 2, Matias 2, Alvarez 2, Billones 0.
Quarterscores: 26-30, 55-63, 74-82, 101-100.
Monday, May 3, 2010
GINEBRA, B-MEG DERBY ACE, AIR21 TRY LUCK WITH NEW IMPORTS
Source pba.ph
Sat, 05/01/2010 - 08:51
Barangay Ginebra, B-MEG Derby Ace and Air21 are three ball clubs coming back from the PBA All-Star break with new imports in tow.
The Kings, the Llamados and the Express signed up new imports in an effort to boost their respective drives in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Ginebra enlisted Mildon Ambres in lieu of Awvee Storey. The Kings introduce Ambres to the PBA fans as they take on the Alaska Aces at the resumption of the season-ending tourney at the Araneta Coliseum Friday.
Meanwhile, Derby Ace tapped Cliff Brown for Lorenzo Wade while Air21 got Reggie Larry for Jason Forte.
Wade has been put on the injured list, thus, he can be reactivated anytime the team wishes to.
“We got Cliff Brown to fill in our need at No. 4 spot while Kerby Raymundo is out with an injury,” said Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio.
Brown, 25, was a teammate of Jai Lewis with the Toyota Alvark in the Japanese league.
Also a veteran of the European league, Brown was measured standing 6-foot-4 15/16.
Ambres is also 25, fresh from a stint with the Idaho Stampede in the NBA Developmental League. He was measured at 6-5 1/16.
Larry was Purefoods’ original choice as import in the same tourney last year. He wasn’t able to play, though, as he suffered an injury a few days before opening day.
Brunei Barracudas coach Bong Ramos highly recommended Larry to the Air21 management.
Ramos used to call the shots for the Lina Group ballclub. Larry played under Ramos' team in the inaugural ABL tourney topped by the Philippine Patriots reinforced by Gabe Freeman and Jason Dixon.
The Kings and the Llamados sport 3-2 cards, tied with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at fourth place.
San Miguel leads the tourney with a 5-1 record, followed by Talk n Text at 5-2 and Coca-Cola at 4-3.
Air21 is at ninth with a 1-5 record. The Express have brought in three imports with Keena Young the first one, followed by Forte, then Larry. (SB)
Sat, 05/01/2010 - 08:51
Barangay Ginebra, B-MEG Derby Ace and Air21 are three ball clubs coming back from the PBA All-Star break with new imports in tow.
The Kings, the Llamados and the Express signed up new imports in an effort to boost their respective drives in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Ginebra enlisted Mildon Ambres in lieu of Awvee Storey. The Kings introduce Ambres to the PBA fans as they take on the Alaska Aces at the resumption of the season-ending tourney at the Araneta Coliseum Friday.
Meanwhile, Derby Ace tapped Cliff Brown for Lorenzo Wade while Air21 got Reggie Larry for Jason Forte.
Wade has been put on the injured list, thus, he can be reactivated anytime the team wishes to.
“We got Cliff Brown to fill in our need at No. 4 spot while Kerby Raymundo is out with an injury,” said Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio.
Brown, 25, was a teammate of Jai Lewis with the Toyota Alvark in the Japanese league.
Also a veteran of the European league, Brown was measured standing 6-foot-4 15/16.
Ambres is also 25, fresh from a stint with the Idaho Stampede in the NBA Developmental League. He was measured at 6-5 1/16.
Larry was Purefoods’ original choice as import in the same tourney last year. He wasn’t able to play, though, as he suffered an injury a few days before opening day.
Brunei Barracudas coach Bong Ramos highly recommended Larry to the Air21 management.
Ramos used to call the shots for the Lina Group ballclub. Larry played under Ramos' team in the inaugural ABL tourney topped by the Philippine Patriots reinforced by Gabe Freeman and Jason Dixon.
The Kings and the Llamados sport 3-2 cards, tied with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at fourth place.
San Miguel leads the tourney with a 5-1 record, followed by Talk n Text at 5-2 and Coca-Cola at 4-3.
Air21 is at ninth with a 1-5 record. The Express have brought in three imports with Keena Young the first one, followed by Forte, then Larry. (SB)
BAGUIO SKIES IN ALASKA DEBUT
Source: pba.ph
Sat, 05/01/2010 - 02:00
Cyrus Baguio upstaged Willie Miller in their debut with their new teams, helping Alaska Milk sustain its romp at the resumption of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Baguio made a big impact in his first game with Alaska, fueling the team’s mighty comeback from 15 points down en route to an 86-81 win over Barangay Ginebra at the Araneta Coliseum Friday night.
Facing his former team, Baguio took charge at the finish, stealing the thunder from Miller as Alaska made it five in a row versus Ginebra dating back to their Philippine Cup best-of-seven semifinals showdown swept by the Aces.
The 6-foot-2 guard-forward tossed in 12 of his 14 points in the final quarter, outscoring the entire Ginebra team in the payoff period.
Baguio and the Aces stunned the Kings with a huge closing run, overcoming a poor first half as Alaska notched a third straight win after starting its stint in the reinforced tourney with two successive defeats.
“We’re totally out of whack in the beginning. Mark Caguioa was going crazy and we couldn’t stop him. Then Cyrus turned things around for us,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone on Baguio’s heroics.
“Willie (Miller) would certainly have his moments and Ginebra would love him, but tonight’s Cyrus’ night,” Cone added.
“Hindi ko in-expect ito. Nag-dasal lang ako na sana naman huag ako mapahiya sa unang laro ko sa Alaska,” said Baguio.
“Ang sama ng laro ko at the start kasi medyo nahihiya pa ako. Good thing, nakuha ko ang rhythm sa fourth quarter,” Baguio added.
Baguio was all over the floor in the final period, going 4-of-7 from the field and 3-of-4 from the stripe, and also getting three rebounds, two blocks and one assist.
The Ace survived after a struggle throughout the first three quarters of play.
Earlier, Ginebra dished out an inspired game playing with a new import in Mildon Ambres and prized new acquisition in Miller.
They led by as many as 15 before settling for a 51-38 halftime lead.
With their new mix, the Kings showed great potential only to falter at the finish and suffer a third loss against the same number of wins.
The Ginebra fans gave Miller a big applause as he checked in for the game a minute into the second half.
He grabbed two rebounds, issued two assists and committed an error before making his first basket as a Ginebra player, slithering past three defenders for a reversed layup.
Miller had a hand as the Kings built double-digit spreads in the second quarter even with Ambres resting on the bench.
Mark Caguioa led their second-quarter breakaway, going perfect from the field with a three-pointer and three twinners.
Back-to-back three-pointers by Ambres and Caguioa gave Ginebra a 27-22 lead in the opening period. (SB)
The scores:
Alaska 86 - Simpson 35, Baguio 14, Tenorio 13, Dela Cruz 12, Eman 4, Thoss 4, Hugnatan 4, De Vance 0, Fonacier 0, Cablay 0.
Ginebra 81 - Ambres 23, Caguioa 22, Cruz 11, Wilson 6, Hatfield 5, Menk 4, Tubid 3, Helterbrand 3, Ferriols 2, Miller 2, Mamaril 0.
Quarterscores: 22-27, 38-51, 60-74, 86-81
Sat, 05/01/2010 - 02:00
Cyrus Baguio upstaged Willie Miller in their debut with their new teams, helping Alaska Milk sustain its romp at the resumption of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Baguio made a big impact in his first game with Alaska, fueling the team’s mighty comeback from 15 points down en route to an 86-81 win over Barangay Ginebra at the Araneta Coliseum Friday night.
Facing his former team, Baguio took charge at the finish, stealing the thunder from Miller as Alaska made it five in a row versus Ginebra dating back to their Philippine Cup best-of-seven semifinals showdown swept by the Aces.
The 6-foot-2 guard-forward tossed in 12 of his 14 points in the final quarter, outscoring the entire Ginebra team in the payoff period.
Baguio and the Aces stunned the Kings with a huge closing run, overcoming a poor first half as Alaska notched a third straight win after starting its stint in the reinforced tourney with two successive defeats.
“We’re totally out of whack in the beginning. Mark Caguioa was going crazy and we couldn’t stop him. Then Cyrus turned things around for us,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone on Baguio’s heroics.
“Willie (Miller) would certainly have his moments and Ginebra would love him, but tonight’s Cyrus’ night,” Cone added.
“Hindi ko in-expect ito. Nag-dasal lang ako na sana naman huag ako mapahiya sa unang laro ko sa Alaska,” said Baguio.
“Ang sama ng laro ko at the start kasi medyo nahihiya pa ako. Good thing, nakuha ko ang rhythm sa fourth quarter,” Baguio added.
Baguio was all over the floor in the final period, going 4-of-7 from the field and 3-of-4 from the stripe, and also getting three rebounds, two blocks and one assist.
The Ace survived after a struggle throughout the first three quarters of play.
Earlier, Ginebra dished out an inspired game playing with a new import in Mildon Ambres and prized new acquisition in Miller.
They led by as many as 15 before settling for a 51-38 halftime lead.
With their new mix, the Kings showed great potential only to falter at the finish and suffer a third loss against the same number of wins.
The Ginebra fans gave Miller a big applause as he checked in for the game a minute into the second half.
He grabbed two rebounds, issued two assists and committed an error before making his first basket as a Ginebra player, slithering past three defenders for a reversed layup.
Miller had a hand as the Kings built double-digit spreads in the second quarter even with Ambres resting on the bench.
Mark Caguioa led their second-quarter breakaway, going perfect from the field with a three-pointer and three twinners.
Back-to-back three-pointers by Ambres and Caguioa gave Ginebra a 27-22 lead in the opening period. (SB)
The scores:
Alaska 86 - Simpson 35, Baguio 14, Tenorio 13, Dela Cruz 12, Eman 4, Thoss 4, Hugnatan 4, De Vance 0, Fonacier 0, Cablay 0.
Ginebra 81 - Ambres 23, Caguioa 22, Cruz 11, Wilson 6, Hatfield 5, Menk 4, Tubid 3, Helterbrand 3, Ferriols 2, Miller 2, Mamaril 0.
Quarterscores: 22-27, 38-51, 60-74, 86-81
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Miller, Baguio to debut against former teams
source: gmanews.tv
Two days after being involved in a blockbuster trade, both Willie Miller and Cyrus Baguio will be judged on Friday as they suit up for their respective new teams and play against each other in the main game of the PBA Fiesta Conference doubleheader at the Araneta Coliseum.
Barangay Ginebra and Alaska clash in a 7:30 p. m. match made more interesting following the intriguing deal that brought Miller, the two-time league most valuable player (MVP), to the Kings in exchange for the high-flying Baguio following the All-Start weekend.
Despite losing Baguio, Kings coach Jong Uichico said he is thrilled with the arrival of the enigmatic shooting guard out of Letran, whom he expects will need a couple of more games before finally settling in with Ginebra’s system.
“Of course it’s always nice to have a Willie Miller in your team. But we now have to wait for him to get use to our system. We have to be patient," said Uichico.
The 5-foot-11 Miller averaged 17 points, three rebounds and 4.5 assists in four games with Alaska this conference.
Aside from Miller, new Ginebra import Mildon Ambres will also have to adjust with the Kings’ brand of play. Ambres takes over the place vacated by Awvee Storey.
Storey, the Kings’ reinforcement in their first five games, is hurting with a dislocated finger in his right hand, but may be tapped anew if ever Ambres proves to be a flop.
Uichico admitted not seeing strong points on Ambres during evaluation periods since his arrival last Monday.
Like Miller and Ambres, eyes will also be on Baguio since he’ll be taking over the spot left by the player whom coach Tim Cone declared as the best closer in the league.
Baguio, a former All-Star Games Slam Dunk champion and Red Bull’s (now Barako Energy Coffee) second round pick in the 2003 Draft averaged 9.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists as a back up in Ginebra’s 3-2 (win-loss) slate.
The former University of Santo Tomas (UST) star is joining Alaska just when the Aces appeared to have snapped out of a slump, winning its last two games before the All-Stars for an even 2-2 slate.
Asked whether which team got the better end of the deal, Cone gave his reasonable thoughts.
“I don’t think one game would be enough to determine which team got the better end of the deal. Willie may score 60 points or Cyrus may be shut down once our teams meet, but you can only tell whether you made the right decision on the trade at the end of the conference," said Cone.
“Hopefully, our teams meet in the finals. That would be really, really interesting," he added.
The Kings have lost their last outing against San Miguel Beer, 102-94, in a game where the Beermen’s starters dominated their Ginebra counterparts, 87-41.
With interest more on the Kings-Aces tussle, the defending champion Beermen quietly gun for their sixth win in seven outings when they face Rain or Shine.
The Beermen are currently on top of the standings with a 5-1 card while the Elasto Painters are tied for fourth to sixth spots with the Kings and the Llamados (3-2).
Fresh from a 12-day rest, the Elasto Painters are also in a high after a 91-80 win over the Coca-Cola Tigers last April 16. – JVP/RCJ, GMANews.TV
Two days after being involved in a blockbuster trade, both Willie Miller and Cyrus Baguio will be judged on Friday as they suit up for their respective new teams and play against each other in the main game of the PBA Fiesta Conference doubleheader at the Araneta Coliseum.
Barangay Ginebra and Alaska clash in a 7:30 p. m. match made more interesting following the intriguing deal that brought Miller, the two-time league most valuable player (MVP), to the Kings in exchange for the high-flying Baguio following the All-Start weekend.
Despite losing Baguio, Kings coach Jong Uichico said he is thrilled with the arrival of the enigmatic shooting guard out of Letran, whom he expects will need a couple of more games before finally settling in with Ginebra’s system.
“Of course it’s always nice to have a Willie Miller in your team. But we now have to wait for him to get use to our system. We have to be patient," said Uichico.
The 5-foot-11 Miller averaged 17 points, three rebounds and 4.5 assists in four games with Alaska this conference.
Aside from Miller, new Ginebra import Mildon Ambres will also have to adjust with the Kings’ brand of play. Ambres takes over the place vacated by Awvee Storey.
Storey, the Kings’ reinforcement in their first five games, is hurting with a dislocated finger in his right hand, but may be tapped anew if ever Ambres proves to be a flop.
Uichico admitted not seeing strong points on Ambres during evaluation periods since his arrival last Monday.
Like Miller and Ambres, eyes will also be on Baguio since he’ll be taking over the spot left by the player whom coach Tim Cone declared as the best closer in the league.
Baguio, a former All-Star Games Slam Dunk champion and Red Bull’s (now Barako Energy Coffee) second round pick in the 2003 Draft averaged 9.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists as a back up in Ginebra’s 3-2 (win-loss) slate.
The former University of Santo Tomas (UST) star is joining Alaska just when the Aces appeared to have snapped out of a slump, winning its last two games before the All-Stars for an even 2-2 slate.
Asked whether which team got the better end of the deal, Cone gave his reasonable thoughts.
“I don’t think one game would be enough to determine which team got the better end of the deal. Willie may score 60 points or Cyrus may be shut down once our teams meet, but you can only tell whether you made the right decision on the trade at the end of the conference," said Cone.
“Hopefully, our teams meet in the finals. That would be really, really interesting," he added.
The Kings have lost their last outing against San Miguel Beer, 102-94, in a game where the Beermen’s starters dominated their Ginebra counterparts, 87-41.
With interest more on the Kings-Aces tussle, the defending champion Beermen quietly gun for their sixth win in seven outings when they face Rain or Shine.
The Beermen are currently on top of the standings with a 5-1 card while the Elasto Painters are tied for fourth to sixth spots with the Kings and the Llamados (3-2).
Fresh from a 12-day rest, the Elasto Painters are also in a high after a 91-80 win over the Coca-Cola Tigers last April 16. – JVP/RCJ, GMANews.TV
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Ace gunner Miller traded for Baguio
By WAYLON GALVEZ
April 28, 2010, 4:15pm
Just as everybody is taking the much-needed rest after the blockbuster PBA All-Star Festivities in Puerto Princesa over the weekend, Alaska Milk, in a stunning move, traded two-time MVP Willie Miller to Ginebra in exchange for Cyrus Baguio.
The deal was consummated yesterday and both parties claimed their teams will be better by the exchange.
Miller, the 5-foot 11 spitfire who earned the moniker the “Thriller,” for his daredevil moves, adds a new dimension to a Ginebra team which, before he came on board, already teemed with star power.
Alaska coach Tim Cone said it was Miller who had sought for the trade, although no reason was given why the player asked to move to another team.
Cone said that he will surely miss Miller, whom he considers as “one of the real good guys in the league.”
“He made it known to us for the last couple of years that he has wanted to be traded. It was only now that the Aces got what it felt a good deal,” Cone said.
“I think it’s a good deal for us,” said Joaqui Trillo, Alaska’s alternate governor to the PBA Board.
Miller is known as a prolific scorer and a fine closer – traits that landed him a spot in the Philippine team that finished 8th in the FIBA-Asia Championship in Tianjin, China.
Baguio, who blossomed into a fine all-around player during his stint with Barako Bull before he was acquired by Ginebra last conference from Air21, was also a member of that team handled by coach Yeng Guiao.
Interestingly, Ginebra and Alaska battle each other at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
This will be Miller’s fourth team in the PBA after starting his pro career with Red Bull, which took him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 Rookie Draft. He also played for Talk ’N Text.
Miller, the PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2002 and 2007, will have as teammates reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid, and Celino Cruz.
Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico said that he would rather “wait and see” on how to utilize a talented player like Miller, who will have his first practice session Thursday with the Kings at the Green Meadows gym in Green Hills, San Juan.
So far this conference, the 32-year-old Miller averaged 17 point, three rebounds and 4.5 assists.
It’s interesting to see if the native of Olongapo City will start for Ginebra or will come off the bench behind Caguioa and Helterbrand.
Both Miller and Baguio earn maximum salaries of P350,000 and their contracts will expire at the end of July 2010.
April 28, 2010, 4:15pm
Just as everybody is taking the much-needed rest after the blockbuster PBA All-Star Festivities in Puerto Princesa over the weekend, Alaska Milk, in a stunning move, traded two-time MVP Willie Miller to Ginebra in exchange for Cyrus Baguio.
The deal was consummated yesterday and both parties claimed their teams will be better by the exchange.
Miller, the 5-foot 11 spitfire who earned the moniker the “Thriller,” for his daredevil moves, adds a new dimension to a Ginebra team which, before he came on board, already teemed with star power.
Alaska coach Tim Cone said it was Miller who had sought for the trade, although no reason was given why the player asked to move to another team.
Cone said that he will surely miss Miller, whom he considers as “one of the real good guys in the league.”
“He made it known to us for the last couple of years that he has wanted to be traded. It was only now that the Aces got what it felt a good deal,” Cone said.
“I think it’s a good deal for us,” said Joaqui Trillo, Alaska’s alternate governor to the PBA Board.
Miller is known as a prolific scorer and a fine closer – traits that landed him a spot in the Philippine team that finished 8th in the FIBA-Asia Championship in Tianjin, China.
Baguio, who blossomed into a fine all-around player during his stint with Barako Bull before he was acquired by Ginebra last conference from Air21, was also a member of that team handled by coach Yeng Guiao.
Interestingly, Ginebra and Alaska battle each other at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Araneta Coliseum.
This will be Miller’s fourth team in the PBA after starting his pro career with Red Bull, which took him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 Rookie Draft. He also played for Talk ’N Text.
Miller, the PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2002 and 2007, will have as teammates reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid, and Celino Cruz.
Ginebra mentor Jong Uichico said that he would rather “wait and see” on how to utilize a talented player like Miller, who will have his first practice session Thursday with the Kings at the Green Meadows gym in Green Hills, San Juan.
So far this conference, the 32-year-old Miller averaged 17 point, three rebounds and 4.5 assists.
It’s interesting to see if the native of Olongapo City will start for Ginebra or will come off the bench behind Caguioa and Helterbrand.
Both Miller and Baguio earn maximum salaries of P350,000 and their contracts will expire at the end of July 2010.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
No security for imports
source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com
In the PBA, the bottom line is what counts and imports whose teams are floundering will likely get the pink slip unless the tide turns regardless of their personal stats.
Sometimes, even imports on winning teams are cut if the prognosis is they’re not good enough for a championship. There’s no job security when it comes to playing as an import because you’re only as good as your last game.
Take Barangay Ginebra’s Awvee Storey who’s the only import in town with NBA credentials. He showed up with a resume that listed stints with the New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards and Milwaukee Bucks but the word is coach Joseph Uichico has given up on the former Arizona State guard after scoring only 13 points in an 86-72 loss to Sta. Lucia Realty and 14 in a 102-94 setback to San Miguel Beer.
Storey’s inconsistency must have caused Uichico headaches. He had 33 points in a 97-90 win over Talk ‘N’ Text, 20 in a 98-91 decision over Coca-Cola and 40 in a 100-98 squeaker over Rain or Shine. For a team with lofty expectations, a 3-2 start just isn’t acceptable, prompting Uichico to call in Mildon Ambres of Southern Nazarene.
Ambres, 25, was named the NBA D-League’s first Most Improved Player awardee a few weeks ago for raising his scoring clip from 6.5 to 14.5 points with the Idaho Stampede this season. He was one of only two Idaho players to see action in the team’s 50 games.
Uichico’s gamble is Ambres will play with the same intensity he displayed in the D-League.
The downside is Ambres had a so-so varsity career. After averaging 21.2 points and 14 rebounds as a senior at Opelousas High School in 2001-02, Ambres joined the Louisiana State University varsity but couldn’t crack the lineup. He wound up sitting out two seasons before gaining eligibility at Southern Mississippi in 2004-05, averaging 7.7 points. In 2005-06, Ambres averaged 6.4 points in 31 games with the Golden Eagles then transferred to Southern Nazarene in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics).
At Southern Nazarene, Ambres finally hit his stride, averaging 15.2 points and 8.2 rebounds. He led the varsity to the Sooners Athletic Conference title, firing 24 points in Southern Nazarene’s 82-68 win over Northwestern Oklahoma State.
Ambres played for CSU Caudripol Brasov in Romania, averaging 18.1 points and 8.5 rebounds in 26 games in 2007-08 then suited up in the D-League.
“I’m extremely happy for Mildon as he earns the well-deserved award,” said Stampede coach Bob MacKinnon. “Being honored as the most improved player in a league that is all about development is such a great tribute to how hard Mildon worked and the dedication of the coaching staff this past season.”
Ambres scored in twin digits in 38 of 50 games and registered a season-high 32 points in a 165-153 overtime victory over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. “Mildon demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft, working hard every night to improve all aspects of his game,” said D-League vice president of basketball operations Chris Alpert. “His dedication to improving his skills is directly in line with the D-League’s core mission of developing the top basketball prospects in the world and I congratulate Mildon on his impressive accomplishment.”
Ambres is slated to make his PBA debut against Alaska at the Araneta Coliseum on Friday.
* * * *
B-Meg Derby Ace will also parade a new import in the Llamados’ next outing against San Miguel Beer at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium this Sunday. Lorenzo Wade hasn’t scored less than 20 points in five games so far but B-Meg’s 3-2 record is no cause for celebration even as the Llamados’ two losses (79-76 to Coca-Cola and 83-81 to Alaska) could’ve gone either way.
You couldn’t ask anything more from Wade who’s extremely coachable. In B-Meg’s 93-80 romp over Barako Coffee last Wednesday, the former San Diego State star produced 27 points, 17 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and three blocked shots in 39 solid minutes. But coach Ryan Gregorio isn’t taking any chances. Wade has been relegated to the injured list while Gregorio tries out Clif Brown of Niagara University. If Brown doesn’t work out, Gregorio has the option of reactivating Wade.
Brown, 25, is a livewire on the court unlike the laid-back Wade. As a senior in 2006-07, he hit 32 points, including 6-of-11 triples, to power Niagara to a 77-69 win over Florida A&M in an NCAA play-in game to advance to the tournament first round as the No. 16 seed against top-ranked Kansas. The triumph over Florida A&M was Niagara’s first in 37 years in the NCAA playoffs. Earlier that season, Brown pumped in a career-high 33 points, including 4-of-5 triples, in a 74-63 decision over St. Bonaventure. Brown wound up averaging 16.3 points, 9.7 rebounds and 33.7 minutes in 33 games.
Air21 will make another switch, starting with Keena Young, trying out Jason Forte and now banking on Reggie Larry. Coach Yeng Guiao is hoping Larry will trigger a reversal of fortunes as the Express has lost four in a row. Young opened the conference on a sour note with Air21 going 1-3. Young was particularly pathetic in the Express’ 92-75 loss to B-Meg last April 9. He was scoreless in the first period en route to an anemic 13-point effort and couldn’t hold Wade’s pants down. Wade got away with 29 points in the rout.
Forte, who never averaged in double figures in four years with Southern Mississippi, failed to turn things around for Air21 in two outings. Getting impatient and feeling a sense of urgency, Guiao is giving Larry a chance to strut his wares.
Larry was close to playing for Purefoods last year but withdrew before the Fiesta Conference started because of an injury. Now, the former Boise State forward has the opportunity to show what he could’ve done with the Tender Juicy Giants.
Larry averaged 14.1 points and 8.1 rebounds as a junior college transfer at Boise State, where former PBA star Vince Hizon once played, in 2006-07. He started in 26 of the varsity’s 31 games and earned a reputation as a force down low, blocking 44 shots and collecting 22 steals. In his senior season, Larry hit at a 19.4 clip as Boise State posted a 25-9 record and made it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 14 years.
In the PBA, the bottom line is what counts and imports whose teams are floundering will likely get the pink slip unless the tide turns regardless of their personal stats.
Sometimes, even imports on winning teams are cut if the prognosis is they’re not good enough for a championship. There’s no job security when it comes to playing as an import because you’re only as good as your last game.
Take Barangay Ginebra’s Awvee Storey who’s the only import in town with NBA credentials. He showed up with a resume that listed stints with the New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards and Milwaukee Bucks but the word is coach Joseph Uichico has given up on the former Arizona State guard after scoring only 13 points in an 86-72 loss to Sta. Lucia Realty and 14 in a 102-94 setback to San Miguel Beer.
Storey’s inconsistency must have caused Uichico headaches. He had 33 points in a 97-90 win over Talk ‘N’ Text, 20 in a 98-91 decision over Coca-Cola and 40 in a 100-98 squeaker over Rain or Shine. For a team with lofty expectations, a 3-2 start just isn’t acceptable, prompting Uichico to call in Mildon Ambres of Southern Nazarene.
Ambres, 25, was named the NBA D-League’s first Most Improved Player awardee a few weeks ago for raising his scoring clip from 6.5 to 14.5 points with the Idaho Stampede this season. He was one of only two Idaho players to see action in the team’s 50 games.
Uichico’s gamble is Ambres will play with the same intensity he displayed in the D-League.
The downside is Ambres had a so-so varsity career. After averaging 21.2 points and 14 rebounds as a senior at Opelousas High School in 2001-02, Ambres joined the Louisiana State University varsity but couldn’t crack the lineup. He wound up sitting out two seasons before gaining eligibility at Southern Mississippi in 2004-05, averaging 7.7 points. In 2005-06, Ambres averaged 6.4 points in 31 games with the Golden Eagles then transferred to Southern Nazarene in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics).
At Southern Nazarene, Ambres finally hit his stride, averaging 15.2 points and 8.2 rebounds. He led the varsity to the Sooners Athletic Conference title, firing 24 points in Southern Nazarene’s 82-68 win over Northwestern Oklahoma State.
Ambres played for CSU Caudripol Brasov in Romania, averaging 18.1 points and 8.5 rebounds in 26 games in 2007-08 then suited up in the D-League.
“I’m extremely happy for Mildon as he earns the well-deserved award,” said Stampede coach Bob MacKinnon. “Being honored as the most improved player in a league that is all about development is such a great tribute to how hard Mildon worked and the dedication of the coaching staff this past season.”
Ambres scored in twin digits in 38 of 50 games and registered a season-high 32 points in a 165-153 overtime victory over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. “Mildon demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft, working hard every night to improve all aspects of his game,” said D-League vice president of basketball operations Chris Alpert. “His dedication to improving his skills is directly in line with the D-League’s core mission of developing the top basketball prospects in the world and I congratulate Mildon on his impressive accomplishment.”
Ambres is slated to make his PBA debut against Alaska at the Araneta Coliseum on Friday.
* * * *
B-Meg Derby Ace will also parade a new import in the Llamados’ next outing against San Miguel Beer at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium this Sunday. Lorenzo Wade hasn’t scored less than 20 points in five games so far but B-Meg’s 3-2 record is no cause for celebration even as the Llamados’ two losses (79-76 to Coca-Cola and 83-81 to Alaska) could’ve gone either way.
You couldn’t ask anything more from Wade who’s extremely coachable. In B-Meg’s 93-80 romp over Barako Coffee last Wednesday, the former San Diego State star produced 27 points, 17 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and three blocked shots in 39 solid minutes. But coach Ryan Gregorio isn’t taking any chances. Wade has been relegated to the injured list while Gregorio tries out Clif Brown of Niagara University. If Brown doesn’t work out, Gregorio has the option of reactivating Wade.
Brown, 25, is a livewire on the court unlike the laid-back Wade. As a senior in 2006-07, he hit 32 points, including 6-of-11 triples, to power Niagara to a 77-69 win over Florida A&M in an NCAA play-in game to advance to the tournament first round as the No. 16 seed against top-ranked Kansas. The triumph over Florida A&M was Niagara’s first in 37 years in the NCAA playoffs. Earlier that season, Brown pumped in a career-high 33 points, including 4-of-5 triples, in a 74-63 decision over St. Bonaventure. Brown wound up averaging 16.3 points, 9.7 rebounds and 33.7 minutes in 33 games.
Air21 will make another switch, starting with Keena Young, trying out Jason Forte and now banking on Reggie Larry. Coach Yeng Guiao is hoping Larry will trigger a reversal of fortunes as the Express has lost four in a row. Young opened the conference on a sour note with Air21 going 1-3. Young was particularly pathetic in the Express’ 92-75 loss to B-Meg last April 9. He was scoreless in the first period en route to an anemic 13-point effort and couldn’t hold Wade’s pants down. Wade got away with 29 points in the rout.
Forte, who never averaged in double figures in four years with Southern Mississippi, failed to turn things around for Air21 in two outings. Getting impatient and feeling a sense of urgency, Guiao is giving Larry a chance to strut his wares.
Larry was close to playing for Purefoods last year but withdrew before the Fiesta Conference started because of an injury. Now, the former Boise State forward has the opportunity to show what he could’ve done with the Tender Juicy Giants.
Larry averaged 14.1 points and 8.1 rebounds as a junior college transfer at Boise State, where former PBA star Vince Hizon once played, in 2006-07. He started in 26 of the varsity’s 31 games and earned a reputation as a force down low, blocking 44 shots and collecting 22 steals. In his senior season, Larry hit at a 19.4 clip as Boise State posted a 25-9 record and made it to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 14 years.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Storey’s tale continues; Hatfield joining Kings soon
source: Francis T.J. Ochoa | inquirer.net
WITH STILL ABOUT FOUR MINUTES left in Friday night’s second game, fans started to file out of the Cuneta Astrodome, certain that Barangay Ginebra, trailing Sta. Lucia, 61-77, was doomed.
“It was a bad game to watch,” said coach jong Uichico of the Kings’s 72-86 loss to the Realtors in the PBA Fiesta Conference.
A little later, he made a slight correction.
“It was a bad game to watch, it was a bad game to play in and it was a bad game to coach,” he said.
For the fans that went home early, disappointed that the crowd darlings failed to match their opening day victory against a powerhouse Talk ‘N Text squad, the question that lingered was: Was it the end of the story for the Kings’ import.
Not yet. As far as the soft-spoken, celebrated champion coach is concerned, Awvee Storey is staying, despite a poor 13-point effort against the Realtors that exposed some of his weaknesses.
“Everybody has his bad game,” Uichico told the Inquirer. “He deserves a chance to prove himself. It’s just been a couple of games.”
Against Sta. Lucia, the Ginebra mentor admitted that the Kings were “out-defended. Take away a couple of three-pointers in the endgame and you would see that we played a good defensive game. But they out-defended us.”
“We’ve been struggling against Sta. Lucia this season,” Uichico noted, after losing to the Realtors also twice in the previous tournament.
So now, he is willing to wait.
He’ll wait for Storey to find the form that made his debut an impressive one and wait also for the arrival of one of the toughest forwards ever to don a Ginebra uniform: Rudy Hatfield.
“He’s due in about two weeks or so,” said the Kings coach.
Hatfield has already agreed in principle to play for a year for the Kings, meaning the rebounding and defensive whiz will also suit up for next year’s Philippine Cup and shore up a Ginebra frontline that was picked apart by Alaska in the semifinals of the previous conference.
And in the meantime, Storey’s tale continues. And Uichico hopes that Friday night would be the last time fans head for the exits before the final buzzer sounds.
WITH STILL ABOUT FOUR MINUTES left in Friday night’s second game, fans started to file out of the Cuneta Astrodome, certain that Barangay Ginebra, trailing Sta. Lucia, 61-77, was doomed.
“It was a bad game to watch,” said coach jong Uichico of the Kings’s 72-86 loss to the Realtors in the PBA Fiesta Conference.
A little later, he made a slight correction.
“It was a bad game to watch, it was a bad game to play in and it was a bad game to coach,” he said.
For the fans that went home early, disappointed that the crowd darlings failed to match their opening day victory against a powerhouse Talk ‘N Text squad, the question that lingered was: Was it the end of the story for the Kings’ import.
Not yet. As far as the soft-spoken, celebrated champion coach is concerned, Awvee Storey is staying, despite a poor 13-point effort against the Realtors that exposed some of his weaknesses.
“Everybody has his bad game,” Uichico told the Inquirer. “He deserves a chance to prove himself. It’s just been a couple of games.”
Against Sta. Lucia, the Ginebra mentor admitted that the Kings were “out-defended. Take away a couple of three-pointers in the endgame and you would see that we played a good defensive game. But they out-defended us.”
“We’ve been struggling against Sta. Lucia this season,” Uichico noted, after losing to the Realtors also twice in the previous tournament.
So now, he is willing to wait.
He’ll wait for Storey to find the form that made his debut an impressive one and wait also for the arrival of one of the toughest forwards ever to don a Ginebra uniform: Rudy Hatfield.
“He’s due in about two weeks or so,” said the Kings coach.
Hatfield has already agreed in principle to play for a year for the Kings, meaning the rebounding and defensive whiz will also suit up for next year’s Philippine Cup and shore up a Ginebra frontline that was picked apart by Alaska in the semifinals of the previous conference.
And in the meantime, Storey’s tale continues. And Uichico hopes that Friday night would be the last time fans head for the exits before the final buzzer sounds.
Sta.Lucia rebounds with big over Ginebra
source: PBA.ph
Getting an elbow from Ronald Tubid, Anthony Johnson retaliated at the whole Barangay Ginebra team, sparking a key run that carried Sta. Lucia Realty to an emphatic win.
Johnson pumped in back-to-back three-pointers right after being felled by Tubid and the Realtors broke away en route to an 86-72 victory over the Kings Friday in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Cuneta Astrodome.
The Realtors nailed their first win after being beaten by the Barako Energy Coffee Masters in the tournament opener Sunday.
“We came out with great energy tonight, determined to make up for our bad showing in our first game,” said Sta. Lucia coach Boyet Fernandez.
“I’m happy the boys started strong and finished even stronger. Magandang character ang ipinakita nila,” Fernandez added.
Johnson logged 22 points and 13 rebounds while Kelly Williams added 13 points, six rebounds and four assists as they led the SLR charge in foiling Ginebra’s bid for early leadership in the reinforced tourney.
For Ginebra, it didn’t help that import Awvee Storey was far less productive than his debut game.
Storey was able to finish in double figures only after making six points in the last two minutes of play. He made only 13 points but grabbed 22 rebounds.
Williams did a good job defending the Ginebra import.
“He’s strong. I just kept a body on him and did my best to keep him off the glass,” said Williams.
The 2008 MVP winner also had sterling efforts offensively, putting in his share in a 19-7 run SLR unleashed to get an 80-61 spread entering the last three minutes of play.
The Realtors actually seized the early initiatives, taking the half at 44-39 and sitting on a 61-54 cushion after the first three quarters of play.
Ryan Reyes and Nelbert Omolon were two other Realtors who finished in double figures with 14 and 12, respectively.
With the Realtors putting the game beyond reach early, Ginebra coach Jong Uichico used the opportunity to break in new recruit John Ferriols and newly reactivated Junthy Valenzuela. (SB)
The scores:
Sta. Lucia 86 - Johnson 22, Reyes 14, Williams 13, Omolon 12, Urbiztondo 9, Mendoza 8,Custodio 4, Espinas 2, Aquino 2, Daa 0, Misolas 0.
Ginebra 72 - Storey 13, Helterbrand 12, Baguio 9, Caguioa 8, Intal 7, Tubid 6, Menk 6, De Ocampo 4, Cruz 3, Wilson 2, Villanueva 2, Ferriols 0, Valenzuela 0.
Quarterscores: 25-20, 44-39, 61-54, 86-72
Getting an elbow from Ronald Tubid, Anthony Johnson retaliated at the whole Barangay Ginebra team, sparking a key run that carried Sta. Lucia Realty to an emphatic win.
Johnson pumped in back-to-back three-pointers right after being felled by Tubid and the Realtors broke away en route to an 86-72 victory over the Kings Friday in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Cuneta Astrodome.
The Realtors nailed their first win after being beaten by the Barako Energy Coffee Masters in the tournament opener Sunday.
“We came out with great energy tonight, determined to make up for our bad showing in our first game,” said Sta. Lucia coach Boyet Fernandez.
“I’m happy the boys started strong and finished even stronger. Magandang character ang ipinakita nila,” Fernandez added.
Johnson logged 22 points and 13 rebounds while Kelly Williams added 13 points, six rebounds and four assists as they led the SLR charge in foiling Ginebra’s bid for early leadership in the reinforced tourney.
For Ginebra, it didn’t help that import Awvee Storey was far less productive than his debut game.
Storey was able to finish in double figures only after making six points in the last two minutes of play. He made only 13 points but grabbed 22 rebounds.
Williams did a good job defending the Ginebra import.
“He’s strong. I just kept a body on him and did my best to keep him off the glass,” said Williams.
The 2008 MVP winner also had sterling efforts offensively, putting in his share in a 19-7 run SLR unleashed to get an 80-61 spread entering the last three minutes of play.
The Realtors actually seized the early initiatives, taking the half at 44-39 and sitting on a 61-54 cushion after the first three quarters of play.
Ryan Reyes and Nelbert Omolon were two other Realtors who finished in double figures with 14 and 12, respectively.
With the Realtors putting the game beyond reach early, Ginebra coach Jong Uichico used the opportunity to break in new recruit John Ferriols and newly reactivated Junthy Valenzuela. (SB)
The scores:
Sta. Lucia 86 - Johnson 22, Reyes 14, Williams 13, Omolon 12, Urbiztondo 9, Mendoza 8,Custodio 4, Espinas 2, Aquino 2, Daa 0, Misolas 0.
Ginebra 72 - Storey 13, Helterbrand 12, Baguio 9, Caguioa 8, Intal 7, Tubid 6, Menk 6, De Ocampo 4, Cruz 3, Wilson 2, Villanueva 2, Ferriols 0, Valenzuela 0.
Quarterscores: 25-20, 44-39, 61-54, 86-72
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
James Yap, Pingris lead All-Star balloting
source: pba.ph
If the ongoing poll to determine the starters for the North and South teams for the 2010 PBA All-Star Weekend may be used as a gauge, then it may be safe to say that James Yap is currently the league’s biggest draw.
Named Best Player of Conference and Finals MVP of the recent Philippine Cup, Yap garnered 28,844 votes to lead all vote getters and appeared o n the way to securing his fifth straight start for the South dating back to his rookie year in 2004.
Interestingly, players of Barangay Ginebra and Derby Ace (formerly Purefoods) garnered the most number of votes after the early tally. The two teams have four players each as provisional starters.
Next to Yap, teammate Mark Pingris received the second highest votes with 20,540, making him the top candidate among the big men for the North.
Also taking the provisional starting spots for the North are reigning league MVP Jayjay Helterbrand (15,916), Paul Artadi (13,664), Kerby Raymundo (19,558) and JC Intal (15,792).
Fans still have a chance to cast their votes until April 4. Polling booths can be found at game venues either at the Araneta Coliseum or Cuneta Astrodome. Online voting is also available at main.pba.ph/votes.asp.
The rest of the players who will comprise the North and South teams will be chosen by the league’s 10 head coaches. A coach however, cannot cast his vote his own player.
Behind MVP Peter June Simon, the South edged out the North in overtime, 163-158, the last time the two teams met in the 2008 All-Star Game in Bacolod City. (DBC)
If the ongoing poll to determine the starters for the North and South teams for the 2010 PBA All-Star Weekend may be used as a gauge, then it may be safe to say that James Yap is currently the league’s biggest draw.
Named Best Player of Conference and Finals MVP of the recent Philippine Cup, Yap garnered 28,844 votes to lead all vote getters and appeared o n the way to securing his fifth straight start for the South dating back to his rookie year in 2004.
Interestingly, players of Barangay Ginebra and Derby Ace (formerly Purefoods) garnered the most number of votes after the early tally. The two teams have four players each as provisional starters.
Next to Yap, teammate Mark Pingris received the second highest votes with 20,540, making him the top candidate among the big men for the North.
Also taking the provisional starting spots for the North are reigning league MVP Jayjay Helterbrand (15,916), Paul Artadi (13,664), Kerby Raymundo (19,558) and JC Intal (15,792).
Fans still have a chance to cast their votes until April 4. Polling booths can be found at game venues either at the Araneta Coliseum or Cuneta Astrodome. Online voting is also available at main.pba.ph/votes.asp.
The rest of the players who will comprise the North and South teams will be chosen by the league’s 10 head coaches. A coach however, cannot cast his vote his own player.
Behind MVP Peter June Simon, the South edged out the North in overtime, 163-158, the last time the two teams met in the 2008 All-Star Game in Bacolod City. (DBC)
Monday, March 22, 2010
Storey with happy ending?
source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com
For Barangay Ginebra import Awvee Storey, life on the basketball court is like an unfolding tale that he hopes will have a happy ending.
In the PBA Fiesta Conference, Ginebra coach Joseph Uichico would like nothing more than a Storey-book championship finish.
“Awvee’s asset is his work ethic,” said Uichico. “He rebounds and defends. As for our team, we are all healthy at last, hoping to remain healthy. I’m not used to having these many bodies for quite a long time and am adjusting myself.”
Uichico referred to Mark Caguioa, Jay-Jay Helterbrand, Junthy Valenzuela and Eric Menk who’ve been in and out of the lineup because of injuries the last several conferences.
Aside from reactivating the often-injured stars, Uichico recently picked up Yancy de Ocampo and John Ferriols to bolster the Kings’ roster. Rudy Hatfield’s return next month will be another boost. However, working De Ocampo and Ferriols into Ginebra’s system may take some time, admitted Uichico, as “both of them just came in.”
But in a conference where imports take center stage, the focus of Uichico’s attention is Storey – just like it was Chris Alexander when Ginebra bagged the 2008 title and David Noel when the Kings took runner-up honors last season.
Storey, who turns 33 on April 18, played three years for Arizona State, the school that produced the likes of San Miguel team consultant Alton Lister, former PBA import Mario Bennett, Byron Scott, Lionel Hollins, Fat Lever and “Jumpin’” Joe Caldwell. A varsity teammate was Eddie House, newly acquitted by the New York Knicks.
Storey is the only import in town with NBA credentials. He has suited up for the New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards and Milwaukee Bucks in three seasons, averaging 2.4 points in 60 total games. The 6-5 3/16 guard-forward from Chicago has played in leagues all over the world – in Germany, Korea, Venezuela, Australia, NBDL, CBA and USBL. What sets him apart from most globetrotting cagers is his college diploma – Storey earned a degree in interdisciplinary studies, majoring in communications and sociology, at Arizona State. In 2001, he worked for the Fox Sports network as a production department intern, preparing for a life after hoops.
At the moment, Storey is still doing what he does best – play the game that he loves with a passion.
At Arizona State, Storey gained a reputation as a bruising defender and a versatile scorer. “He’s a difficult cover for guys who are big because of his quickness and for guys who are smaller because he can take them inside and overpower them,” said his varsity coach Rob Evans. “He’s going to give you 15 to 18-foot range and he takes advantage of his abilities which are attacking the basket, rebounding and defending. He’s a tremendous talent. He’s strong, tough physically and mentally. He can get to the basket and create his own shot.”
When the Bucks signed up Storey, then-general manager Larry Harris described him as “a hard-nosed, aggressive player who brings depth to our roster at the guard and small forward positions – he’s an excellent athlete and a solid defender.”
As an Arizona State senior in 2001-02, Storey sat out three games because of bleeding behind a swollen retina but came back to score 29 points against University of Nevada at Las Vegas in his final collegiate game. In 85 career games at Arizona State, Storey posted 16 double-doubles.
Two tainted chapters in Storey’s basketball life involved a misdemeanor arrest and a punching incident at practice. In 2006, Storey and Washington teammate Gilbert Arenas were arrested for disobeying police orders at a riotous Memorial Day celebration of hip-hop music and urban beach culture in Miami Beach. Storey was arrested for blocking traffic in the middle of a street and got off the hook with a $250 donation to the local police assistance trust fund. He was one of 557 arrested during the festivities. That same year, Storey was suspended and eventually cut by Dakota in the NBDL for punching Lithuanian 7-2 teammate Martynas Andriuskevicius at practice. Andriuskevicius was hospitalized with a severe concussion, a minor fracture of the skull and a bruise on the left side of the brain.
A Storey facet is his never-say-die attitude, which fits right in with Ginebra’s philosophy.
When Storey red-shirted for Arizona State in 1998-99 after transferring from Illinois, he was extremely vocal about how the varsity team played in losing to New Orleans in the dugout. “He’s a potential leader, having directed a fierce dressing room tirade at his teammates after a loss to New Orleans – as a redshirt, no less,” reported Jeff Faraudo in the Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook. “No one challenged his right to do so.”
Before moving to the PBA, Storey played for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian league. He played only nine games for the Breakers. Coach Andrej Lemanis said Storey “acted like a true professional” but was released because “things weren’t working out and we needed to make a change.”
In 2005, Storey led the Wonjun TG Sambo Xers to the Korean league championship. That’s the kind of finish Uichico is expecting from Storey in the PBA and if that happens, it’ll be the “Greatest Storey Ever Told.”
For Barangay Ginebra import Awvee Storey, life on the basketball court is like an unfolding tale that he hopes will have a happy ending.
In the PBA Fiesta Conference, Ginebra coach Joseph Uichico would like nothing more than a Storey-book championship finish.
“Awvee’s asset is his work ethic,” said Uichico. “He rebounds and defends. As for our team, we are all healthy at last, hoping to remain healthy. I’m not used to having these many bodies for quite a long time and am adjusting myself.”
Uichico referred to Mark Caguioa, Jay-Jay Helterbrand, Junthy Valenzuela and Eric Menk who’ve been in and out of the lineup because of injuries the last several conferences.
Aside from reactivating the often-injured stars, Uichico recently picked up Yancy de Ocampo and John Ferriols to bolster the Kings’ roster. Rudy Hatfield’s return next month will be another boost. However, working De Ocampo and Ferriols into Ginebra’s system may take some time, admitted Uichico, as “both of them just came in.”
But in a conference where imports take center stage, the focus of Uichico’s attention is Storey – just like it was Chris Alexander when Ginebra bagged the 2008 title and David Noel when the Kings took runner-up honors last season.
Storey, who turns 33 on April 18, played three years for Arizona State, the school that produced the likes of San Miguel team consultant Alton Lister, former PBA import Mario Bennett, Byron Scott, Lionel Hollins, Fat Lever and “Jumpin’” Joe Caldwell. A varsity teammate was Eddie House, newly acquitted by the New York Knicks.
Storey is the only import in town with NBA credentials. He has suited up for the New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards and Milwaukee Bucks in three seasons, averaging 2.4 points in 60 total games. The 6-5 3/16 guard-forward from Chicago has played in leagues all over the world – in Germany, Korea, Venezuela, Australia, NBDL, CBA and USBL. What sets him apart from most globetrotting cagers is his college diploma – Storey earned a degree in interdisciplinary studies, majoring in communications and sociology, at Arizona State. In 2001, he worked for the Fox Sports network as a production department intern, preparing for a life after hoops.
At the moment, Storey is still doing what he does best – play the game that he loves with a passion.
At Arizona State, Storey gained a reputation as a bruising defender and a versatile scorer. “He’s a difficult cover for guys who are big because of his quickness and for guys who are smaller because he can take them inside and overpower them,” said his varsity coach Rob Evans. “He’s going to give you 15 to 18-foot range and he takes advantage of his abilities which are attacking the basket, rebounding and defending. He’s a tremendous talent. He’s strong, tough physically and mentally. He can get to the basket and create his own shot.”
When the Bucks signed up Storey, then-general manager Larry Harris described him as “a hard-nosed, aggressive player who brings depth to our roster at the guard and small forward positions – he’s an excellent athlete and a solid defender.”
As an Arizona State senior in 2001-02, Storey sat out three games because of bleeding behind a swollen retina but came back to score 29 points against University of Nevada at Las Vegas in his final collegiate game. In 85 career games at Arizona State, Storey posted 16 double-doubles.
Two tainted chapters in Storey’s basketball life involved a misdemeanor arrest and a punching incident at practice. In 2006, Storey and Washington teammate Gilbert Arenas were arrested for disobeying police orders at a riotous Memorial Day celebration of hip-hop music and urban beach culture in Miami Beach. Storey was arrested for blocking traffic in the middle of a street and got off the hook with a $250 donation to the local police assistance trust fund. He was one of 557 arrested during the festivities. That same year, Storey was suspended and eventually cut by Dakota in the NBDL for punching Lithuanian 7-2 teammate Martynas Andriuskevicius at practice. Andriuskevicius was hospitalized with a severe concussion, a minor fracture of the skull and a bruise on the left side of the brain.
A Storey facet is his never-say-die attitude, which fits right in with Ginebra’s philosophy.
When Storey red-shirted for Arizona State in 1998-99 after transferring from Illinois, he was extremely vocal about how the varsity team played in losing to New Orleans in the dugout. “He’s a potential leader, having directed a fierce dressing room tirade at his teammates after a loss to New Orleans – as a redshirt, no less,” reported Jeff Faraudo in the Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook. “No one challenged his right to do so.”
Before moving to the PBA, Storey played for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian league. He played only nine games for the Breakers. Coach Andrej Lemanis said Storey “acted like a true professional” but was released because “things weren’t working out and we needed to make a change.”
In 2005, Storey led the Wonjun TG Sambo Xers to the Korean league championship. That’s the kind of finish Uichico is expecting from Storey in the PBA and if that happens, it’ll be the “Greatest Storey Ever Told.”
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Storey, Caguioa lead Ginebra past Talk 'N Text
source: PBA.ph
The Barangay Ginebra Kings and import Awvee Storey ended their first game together with a good story to tell. Storey had a decent debut in the local pro league, coming through with 33 points and 16 rebounds to lead the Kings to a 97-90 win over the Talk n Text Tropang Texters in the opening day of the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid and Jayjay Helterbrand contributed at least 11 points each as the Kings kept their streak over Texters in their head-on duels dating back to the recent Philippine Cup.
The two teams figured in a best-of-five quarters duel in the last conference with Ginebra emerging the winner, completing a comeback from a 0-2 deficit. Storey definitely had a big hand as the Kings made a triumphant Fiesta Cup start after finishing fourth in the all-Filipino tourney.
A product of Arizona State with a three-year stint in the NBA, Storey went 13-of-25 from the field and 6-of-6 from the stripe, and also got two assists, one steal and one block in 38 minutes of play. He more than held his own against Shawn Daniels, a veteran PBA import with three conferences played with Air21. “Storey is not that spectacular but he’s an all-around player.He’s got little of everything and we’re hoping he can compliment the team,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico. “He’s a hard worker as he’s been showing in practice. Hopefully, he continues to be that way and really compliment the team,” Uichico added.
“Maganda result ng first game. But he’s now scouted so things would be different in the next games.” Storey got off to a good start and showed staying power, helping the Kings to a finish steadier than that of the Texters. Emotions appeared to be still high in the early rematch of the two teams that engaged in a passionate playoff series in the last conference.
At one point in the second half, Ranidel de Ocampo sent Storey to the floor on a hard tackle meriting a flagrant foul call from the referees. It would be remembered that De Ocampo himself committed an infraction that triggered a controversy in Game Four of the Ginebra-Talk n Text quarters duel in the Philippine Cup. Daniels, De Ocampo and Mark Cardona led the Talk n Text challenge as they fought the Kings through 14 deadlocks and 22 lead changes.
Daniels churned out 19 points and 16 rebounds, Cardona tallied 19 points, three steals and two rebounds while De Ocampo chipped in 14 points and three rebounds. Storey and Caguioa, however, outplayed and outscored Daniels and Cardona in the payoff period, fueling a hot charge with their combined output of 23 points. (SB)
The scores:
Ginebra 97 - Storey 33, Caguioa 19, Tubid 16, Helterbrand 11, Baguio 8, Menk 4, Intal 2, Cruz 2, Villanueva 2, De Ocampo 0.
Talk N' Text 90 - Daniels 19, Cardona 19, De Ocampo 14, Carey 8, Alapag 8, Yee 7, Castro 7, Dillinger 6, Aban 2, Peek 0, Belasco 0.
Quarterscores: 15-21, 38-39, 64-63, 97-90
The Barangay Ginebra Kings and import Awvee Storey ended their first game together with a good story to tell. Storey had a decent debut in the local pro league, coming through with 33 points and 16 rebounds to lead the Kings to a 97-90 win over the Talk n Text Tropang Texters in the opening day of the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid and Jayjay Helterbrand contributed at least 11 points each as the Kings kept their streak over Texters in their head-on duels dating back to the recent Philippine Cup.
The two teams figured in a best-of-five quarters duel in the last conference with Ginebra emerging the winner, completing a comeback from a 0-2 deficit. Storey definitely had a big hand as the Kings made a triumphant Fiesta Cup start after finishing fourth in the all-Filipino tourney.
A product of Arizona State with a three-year stint in the NBA, Storey went 13-of-25 from the field and 6-of-6 from the stripe, and also got two assists, one steal and one block in 38 minutes of play. He more than held his own against Shawn Daniels, a veteran PBA import with three conferences played with Air21. “Storey is not that spectacular but he’s an all-around player.He’s got little of everything and we’re hoping he can compliment the team,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico. “He’s a hard worker as he’s been showing in practice. Hopefully, he continues to be that way and really compliment the team,” Uichico added.
“Maganda result ng first game. But he’s now scouted so things would be different in the next games.” Storey got off to a good start and showed staying power, helping the Kings to a finish steadier than that of the Texters. Emotions appeared to be still high in the early rematch of the two teams that engaged in a passionate playoff series in the last conference.
At one point in the second half, Ranidel de Ocampo sent Storey to the floor on a hard tackle meriting a flagrant foul call from the referees. It would be remembered that De Ocampo himself committed an infraction that triggered a controversy in Game Four of the Ginebra-Talk n Text quarters duel in the Philippine Cup. Daniels, De Ocampo and Mark Cardona led the Talk n Text challenge as they fought the Kings through 14 deadlocks and 22 lead changes.
Daniels churned out 19 points and 16 rebounds, Cardona tallied 19 points, three steals and two rebounds while De Ocampo chipped in 14 points and three rebounds. Storey and Caguioa, however, outplayed and outscored Daniels and Cardona in the payoff period, fueling a hot charge with their combined output of 23 points. (SB)
The scores:
Ginebra 97 - Storey 33, Caguioa 19, Tubid 16, Helterbrand 11, Baguio 8, Menk 4, Intal 2, Cruz 2, Villanueva 2, De Ocampo 0.
Talk N' Text 90 - Daniels 19, Cardona 19, De Ocampo 14, Carey 8, Alapag 8, Yee 7, Castro 7, Dillinger 6, Aban 2, Peek 0, Belasco 0.
Quarterscores: 15-21, 38-39, 64-63, 97-90
New-look Barako Coffee stuns Sta. Lucia
gmanews.tv
Barako Coffee made sure everybody took notice right on opening day of the KFC-PBA Fiesta Cup.
Sammy Monroe showed how prolific a scorer he is by exploding for 39 points and powering the Coffee Masters to a 97-93 upset of the Sta. Lucia Realtors in the curtain-raiser ushering the import-laden conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Monroe, who had stint in Mexico prior to signing up with Barako Coffee, was 13-of-24 from the field and also had 12 rebounds, while making two big free throws that shattered the game’s final deadlock and put the Coffee Makers on top for good, 90-88.
New recruit Al Vergara then preserved the stunning win by nailing back-to-back crucial jumpers in the final 85 seconds that put the fight out of the rallying Realtors.
“We just won the first game. There are 17 games more and it’s still a long way to go," said Junel Baculi of his debut win as PBA coach.
“We have to work our way up because we wanted to get out of the rut," added the new mentor of Barako Coffee, which finished at the bottom of the standings in the last three conferences.
Leo Najorda, one of the few remnants of Barako Coffee’s predecessor – Red Bull – added 12 markers while Vergara, who previously suited up for Purefoods and later, with the Singapore Slingers in the Asean Basketball League (ABL), had eight along with Rob Wainwright and Rob Reyes.
Veteran import Anthony Johnson exploded for 41 points and collected 13 rebounds for the Realtors, who fought back from an 11-point deficit in the final 5:20 to tie the game at 88 with 2:32 left.
Gabby Espinas added 14 points and nine rebounds, while Ryan Reyes contributed 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Sta. Lucia, which had new faces in Bonbon Custodio, the player the ball club got for trading Joseph Yeo to San Miguel, and Don Belano.
Kelly Williams was limited to just six points on 3-of-8 shooting, but came through with the game’s highlight reel play with a left-handed, follow-up dunk off a missed shot in the waning seconds of the third period for a 76-68 count. - GMANews.TV
The scores:
Barako Coffee 97 - Monroe 39, Najorda 12, Vergara 8, Reyes 8, Wainwright 8, Menor 5, Dimaunahan 5, Duncil4, Aljamal 4, Gaco 2, Faundo 2, Alonzo 0.
Sta. Lucia 93 - Johnson 41, Espinas 14, Reyes 13, Custodio 8, Williams 6, Mendoza 4, Misolas 3, Omolon 2, Aquino 2, Waters 0, Urbiztondo 0, Belano 0.
Quarterscores: 25-23; 44-46; 78-68; 97-93.
Barako Coffee made sure everybody took notice right on opening day of the KFC-PBA Fiesta Cup.
Sammy Monroe showed how prolific a scorer he is by exploding for 39 points and powering the Coffee Masters to a 97-93 upset of the Sta. Lucia Realtors in the curtain-raiser ushering the import-laden conference at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
Monroe, who had stint in Mexico prior to signing up with Barako Coffee, was 13-of-24 from the field and also had 12 rebounds, while making two big free throws that shattered the game’s final deadlock and put the Coffee Makers on top for good, 90-88.
New recruit Al Vergara then preserved the stunning win by nailing back-to-back crucial jumpers in the final 85 seconds that put the fight out of the rallying Realtors.
“We just won the first game. There are 17 games more and it’s still a long way to go," said Junel Baculi of his debut win as PBA coach.
“We have to work our way up because we wanted to get out of the rut," added the new mentor of Barako Coffee, which finished at the bottom of the standings in the last three conferences.
Leo Najorda, one of the few remnants of Barako Coffee’s predecessor – Red Bull – added 12 markers while Vergara, who previously suited up for Purefoods and later, with the Singapore Slingers in the Asean Basketball League (ABL), had eight along with Rob Wainwright and Rob Reyes.
Veteran import Anthony Johnson exploded for 41 points and collected 13 rebounds for the Realtors, who fought back from an 11-point deficit in the final 5:20 to tie the game at 88 with 2:32 left.
Gabby Espinas added 14 points and nine rebounds, while Ryan Reyes contributed 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Sta. Lucia, which had new faces in Bonbon Custodio, the player the ball club got for trading Joseph Yeo to San Miguel, and Don Belano.
Kelly Williams was limited to just six points on 3-of-8 shooting, but came through with the game’s highlight reel play with a left-handed, follow-up dunk off a missed shot in the waning seconds of the third period for a 76-68 count. - GMANews.TV
The scores:
Barako Coffee 97 - Monroe 39, Najorda 12, Vergara 8, Reyes 8, Wainwright 8, Menor 5, Dimaunahan 5, Duncil4, Aljamal 4, Gaco 2, Faundo 2, Alonzo 0.
Sta. Lucia 93 - Johnson 41, Espinas 14, Reyes 13, Custodio 8, Williams 6, Mendoza 4, Misolas 3, Omolon 2, Aquino 2, Waters 0, Urbiztondo 0, Belano 0.
Quarterscores: 25-23; 44-46; 78-68; 97-93.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Uichico dropping player for Rudy Hatfield
source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph
Rudy Hatfield is making a comeback after an absence of three years, raising concerns about his fitness and readiness to compete against young players in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
Still, Barangay Ginebra won’t pass up the opportunity of having the six-foot-three veteran on the team out to regain the PBA Fiesta Cup it won two years ago.
“He’s (Hatfield) always a positive addition and I’m sure he still has the same heart and intensity. Also, he’s a stabilizing presence, not only in the locker room and on the court but also even in practice,” Ginebra coach Jong Uichico said. “He also last played here three years ago. I really want to see him play, not only in practice but in an actual game,” he added.
Hatfield is set to arrive April 6.
Uichico, however, concedes that Hatfield needs time to work himself back to shape.
“He’s 32... and at that age you may have lost a step or two, a hustle here or there,” said Uichico who now has to drop one player from his current roster to accommodate the do-it-all forward.
He will choose from among 6-6 Eric Menk, 6-3 JC Intal, 6-5 Billy Mamaril, 6-3 Willie Wilson, 6-2 Sunday Salvacion, as well as newly acquired 6-4 John Ferriols and 6-8 Yancy de Ocampo.
One of these players would be placed on the reserve list, providing the opportunity for other teams to grab him as Unrestricted Free Agent with Rights to Salary.
Ferriols had been taken from Alaska as an unrestricted free agent. Previously, 6-8 Sam Eman was taken by the Aces from San Miguel Beer.
The Kings lost to San Miguel Beer in a classic seven-game title showdown in the same conference last year.
In the previous all-Filipino Philippine Cup, Ginebra was swept by the Aces, 4-0, in the semifinals.
In the Fiesta Cup opener on Sunday, the Kings will parade ex-NBA player Awvee Storey against Talk ‘N Text in the main game of a twin-bill at the Araneta Coliseum.
In six seasons that began in 2000, Hatfield averaged double-double 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds, with 3.1 assists in 227 games. He left for the United States following the Kings’ title triumph in the 2006-2007 Philippine Cup to be with bride-to-be Bethany.
Games Sunday (Araneta Coliseum)
4 p.m. — Barako Coffee vs Sta. Lucia
6:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs Talk ‘N Text
Rudy Hatfield is making a comeback after an absence of three years, raising concerns about his fitness and readiness to compete against young players in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).
Still, Barangay Ginebra won’t pass up the opportunity of having the six-foot-three veteran on the team out to regain the PBA Fiesta Cup it won two years ago.
“He’s (Hatfield) always a positive addition and I’m sure he still has the same heart and intensity. Also, he’s a stabilizing presence, not only in the locker room and on the court but also even in practice,” Ginebra coach Jong Uichico said. “He also last played here three years ago. I really want to see him play, not only in practice but in an actual game,” he added.
Hatfield is set to arrive April 6.
Uichico, however, concedes that Hatfield needs time to work himself back to shape.
“He’s 32... and at that age you may have lost a step or two, a hustle here or there,” said Uichico who now has to drop one player from his current roster to accommodate the do-it-all forward.
He will choose from among 6-6 Eric Menk, 6-3 JC Intal, 6-5 Billy Mamaril, 6-3 Willie Wilson, 6-2 Sunday Salvacion, as well as newly acquired 6-4 John Ferriols and 6-8 Yancy de Ocampo.
One of these players would be placed on the reserve list, providing the opportunity for other teams to grab him as Unrestricted Free Agent with Rights to Salary.
Ferriols had been taken from Alaska as an unrestricted free agent. Previously, 6-8 Sam Eman was taken by the Aces from San Miguel Beer.
The Kings lost to San Miguel Beer in a classic seven-game title showdown in the same conference last year.
In the previous all-Filipino Philippine Cup, Ginebra was swept by the Aces, 4-0, in the semifinals.
In the Fiesta Cup opener on Sunday, the Kings will parade ex-NBA player Awvee Storey against Talk ‘N Text in the main game of a twin-bill at the Araneta Coliseum.
In six seasons that began in 2000, Hatfield averaged double-double 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds, with 3.1 assists in 227 games. He left for the United States following the Kings’ title triumph in the 2006-2007 Philippine Cup to be with bride-to-be Bethany.
Games Sunday (Araneta Coliseum)
4 p.m. — Barako Coffee vs Sta. Lucia
6:30 p.m. — Ginebra vs Talk ‘N Text
PBA: Early grudge showdown
source: Joel Orellana | businessmirror.com.ph
Two teams that figured in a controversial quarterfinal series in the previous conference face off right on opening day of the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Barangay Ginebra and Talk ’N Text, which battled in a Philippine Cup quarterfinal series marred by a walkout that cost the Texters more than P1 million in fines, square off at 6:30 p.m. right after the opening game tussle between the “new look” Barako Coffee Masters and Sta. Lucia Realty at 4 p.m.
Ginebra, which lost to sister team San Miguel Beer in the semifinals of the All-Filipino tournament, strengthened its frontline by acquiring Yancy de Ocampo in a trade with Air21 and signing free agent John Ferriols.
Plus, the Kings are expecting 32-year-old rebound demon Rudy Hatfield to rejoin the team next month.
“He’s [Hatfield] always a positive addition and I’m sure he still has the same heart and intensity,” said Uichico, who now faces a dilemma on who to relegate in the reserve list once Hatfield joins the team.
“Also, he is a stabilizing presence, not only in the locker room and on the court but also even in practice. Kaya siguradong makakatulong siya, not only with my team pero kahit na saang team,” he added.
Hatfield played six seasons in the PBA and was part of the Ginebra team that ruled the 2006-07 Philippine Cup before returning to the US to help his bride-to-be Bethany sort out some problems from her previous marriage.
Uichico said that aside from resuming his basketball career in the country, Hatfield will also be involved in missionary work.
The Kings are parading former National Basketball Association campaigner Awvee Storey, whom Uichico described as an all-around player
“He’s a hard worker, nothing flashy. A defender, rebounder and a team player,” he said.
Talk ’N Text, also added three role players in a trade with the Express, giving up de Ocampo and Renren Ritualo.
Debuting for the Tropang Texters are Mark Yee, JR Quinahan and Aaron Aban, while coach Chot Reyes decided to get back import Shawn Daniels after their original choice, Erick Hicks, fell short of expectations.
“I’m very pleased with our practice the past week and I’m looking forward to a great conference for us,” said Reyes, who failed to defend their Philippine Cup title after losing to the Kings in a quarterfinals marred by a walkout.
Reyes added that the new additions, including the burly Daniels, will provide new dimensions to the team known for its scoring prowess.
“Iyung mga basurero, mga pulot-pulot, depensa, hustle,” he said. “Sila ’yung magbibigay ng ibang dimensions sa team namin and I’m very happy with them.”
Daniels, who is fresh from a stint in Puerto Rico, arrived on Thursday morning.
“He’s exactly the kind of import we need, a team player who can complement the locals and has the defensive attitude,” said Reyes.
Two teams that figured in a controversial quarterfinal series in the previous conference face off right on opening day of the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Barangay Ginebra and Talk ’N Text, which battled in a Philippine Cup quarterfinal series marred by a walkout that cost the Texters more than P1 million in fines, square off at 6:30 p.m. right after the opening game tussle between the “new look” Barako Coffee Masters and Sta. Lucia Realty at 4 p.m.
Ginebra, which lost to sister team San Miguel Beer in the semifinals of the All-Filipino tournament, strengthened its frontline by acquiring Yancy de Ocampo in a trade with Air21 and signing free agent John Ferriols.
Plus, the Kings are expecting 32-year-old rebound demon Rudy Hatfield to rejoin the team next month.
“He’s [Hatfield] always a positive addition and I’m sure he still has the same heart and intensity,” said Uichico, who now faces a dilemma on who to relegate in the reserve list once Hatfield joins the team.
“Also, he is a stabilizing presence, not only in the locker room and on the court but also even in practice. Kaya siguradong makakatulong siya, not only with my team pero kahit na saang team,” he added.
Hatfield played six seasons in the PBA and was part of the Ginebra team that ruled the 2006-07 Philippine Cup before returning to the US to help his bride-to-be Bethany sort out some problems from her previous marriage.
Uichico said that aside from resuming his basketball career in the country, Hatfield will also be involved in missionary work.
The Kings are parading former National Basketball Association campaigner Awvee Storey, whom Uichico described as an all-around player
“He’s a hard worker, nothing flashy. A defender, rebounder and a team player,” he said.
Talk ’N Text, also added three role players in a trade with the Express, giving up de Ocampo and Renren Ritualo.
Debuting for the Tropang Texters are Mark Yee, JR Quinahan and Aaron Aban, while coach Chot Reyes decided to get back import Shawn Daniels after their original choice, Erick Hicks, fell short of expectations.
“I’m very pleased with our practice the past week and I’m looking forward to a great conference for us,” said Reyes, who failed to defend their Philippine Cup title after losing to the Kings in a quarterfinals marred by a walkout.
Reyes added that the new additions, including the burly Daniels, will provide new dimensions to the team known for its scoring prowess.
“Iyung mga basurero, mga pulot-pulot, depensa, hustle,” he said. “Sila ’yung magbibigay ng ibang dimensions sa team namin and I’m very happy with them.”
Daniels, who is fresh from a stint in Puerto Rico, arrived on Thursday morning.
“He’s exactly the kind of import we need, a team player who can complement the locals and has the defensive attitude,” said Reyes.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Ferriols to boost Ginebra line-up for coming Fiesta Cup
source: gmanews.tv
Barangay Ginebra, a talented but aging team like the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA, has bolstered its frontline – by securing veteran John Ferriols.
Ferriols’ acquisition by Ginebra became official on Wednesday night when the 35-year-old former Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA) most valuable player (MVP) became an unrestricted free agent.
Alaska Milk put the 6-foot-5 lefty center/forward on the reserved list to make room for new recruit big man – 6-foot-9 Samigue Eman.
Ginebra took advantage as Ferriols officially became an unrestricted free agent being put on the reserved list.
Alaska team manager and board representative Joaqui Trillo said, in a telephone interview, that they’re putting Ferriols on the reserved list. Eman, who was picked up by the Aces during the latter stretch of the Philippine Cup, moved up to join the Aces’ regular roster.
“He’s still with us, but he can be picked up by any team as long as he agrees to play with them," added Trillo.
Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, whose team just picked up 6-foot-9 Yancy de Ocampo from Air21 a few days ago, was happy to have an additional frontliner in Ferriols.
The multi-titled mentor, however, said he wants young players who can provide support to his aging veterans, who may have to play reduced minutes to be preserved in the long stretch.
“Let’s face it. Our team is not getting any younger. We have a 35-year-old Ferriols coming over and we have a 33-year-old Rudy Hatfield returning. So as veterans Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand who are not getting any younger either and if maglalaro pa si Johnny Abarrientos, we will have the oldest player on the squad," said Uichico.
“We need young players that could somehow eat up 10 to 12 minutes from our veterans and hopefully preserved our older guys for the long stretch," he added.
Ginebra’s sister team, San Miguel Beer, a squad loaded in offensive firepower, had added another marquee player in Joseph Yeo, who was plucked form Sta. Lucia in exchange for Bonbon Custodio.
Yeo will be included on a rotation that has Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade and Jonas Villanueva. The team recently added Alex Cabagnot, who will also share minutes with Denok Miranda and Olsen Racela.
Trading not yet over
More trade are expected to take place as teams get busy retooling their respective lineups before the opening of the Fiesta Conference.
A source, who requested anonymity, said that the Beermen and the Gin Kings are not done yet with their wheeling and dealing.
“San Miguel are loaded with guards while Ginebra still needs to bolster some positions," said the source. “I believe there will be more movements in the next few days," said the source.
Speaking for Ginebra, Uichico admitted there are still offers left on the table.
“There were offers on the table, but I don’t see it happening before Sunday or the next few days or weeks," said Uichico. “Bottom line, our team is not getting any younger and we want young, quality players who will play as backup for either JayJay Helterbrand or some of our veteran frontliners." – GMANews.TV
Barangay Ginebra, a talented but aging team like the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA, has bolstered its frontline – by securing veteran John Ferriols.
Ferriols’ acquisition by Ginebra became official on Wednesday night when the 35-year-old former Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA) most valuable player (MVP) became an unrestricted free agent.
Alaska Milk put the 6-foot-5 lefty center/forward on the reserved list to make room for new recruit big man – 6-foot-9 Samigue Eman.
Ginebra took advantage as Ferriols officially became an unrestricted free agent being put on the reserved list.
Alaska team manager and board representative Joaqui Trillo said, in a telephone interview, that they’re putting Ferriols on the reserved list. Eman, who was picked up by the Aces during the latter stretch of the Philippine Cup, moved up to join the Aces’ regular roster.
“He’s still with us, but he can be picked up by any team as long as he agrees to play with them," added Trillo.
Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, whose team just picked up 6-foot-9 Yancy de Ocampo from Air21 a few days ago, was happy to have an additional frontliner in Ferriols.
The multi-titled mentor, however, said he wants young players who can provide support to his aging veterans, who may have to play reduced minutes to be preserved in the long stretch.
“Let’s face it. Our team is not getting any younger. We have a 35-year-old Ferriols coming over and we have a 33-year-old Rudy Hatfield returning. So as veterans Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand who are not getting any younger either and if maglalaro pa si Johnny Abarrientos, we will have the oldest player on the squad," said Uichico.
“We need young players that could somehow eat up 10 to 12 minutes from our veterans and hopefully preserved our older guys for the long stretch," he added.
Ginebra’s sister team, San Miguel Beer, a squad loaded in offensive firepower, had added another marquee player in Joseph Yeo, who was plucked form Sta. Lucia in exchange for Bonbon Custodio.
Yeo will be included on a rotation that has Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade and Jonas Villanueva. The team recently added Alex Cabagnot, who will also share minutes with Denok Miranda and Olsen Racela.
Trading not yet over
More trade are expected to take place as teams get busy retooling their respective lineups before the opening of the Fiesta Conference.
A source, who requested anonymity, said that the Beermen and the Gin Kings are not done yet with their wheeling and dealing.
“San Miguel are loaded with guards while Ginebra still needs to bolster some positions," said the source. “I believe there will be more movements in the next few days," said the source.
Speaking for Ginebra, Uichico admitted there are still offers left on the table.
“There were offers on the table, but I don’t see it happening before Sunday or the next few days or weeks," said Uichico. “Bottom line, our team is not getting any younger and we want young, quality players who will play as backup for either JayJay Helterbrand or some of our veteran frontliners." – GMANews.TV
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
SMB sends Custodio to SLR for Yeo
source: Nelson Beltran | philstar.com
San Miguel Beer continued to rebuild its aging lineup, acquiring Joseph Yeo from Sta. Lucia in exchange for Bonbon Custodio five days before the opening of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Beermen, who settled for third place after losing to the eventual champions Purefoods Giants in the recent Philippine Cup, have bolstered their backcourt rotation with Yeo’s acquisition, which came on the heels of an earlier trade deal involving Alex Cabagnot and Mike Cortez.
Yeo, a former La Salle standout, blossomed into a fine playmaker with Sta. Lucia after a forgettable stint with Coca-Cola in the 2006-07 campaign.
In his second season with Sta. Lucia last year, Yeo effectively played his off-the-bench role, winding up as the team’s second-best scorer behind Kelly Williams with a 13.5-point average.
He also normed 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists in a remarkable season, prompting the team management to give him a three-year contract-extension worth the maximum pay allowed in the league.
Meanwhile, Custodio, a product of University of the East, is in his second year in the pro league, also playing the off-the-bench role creditably.
The only rookie in the star-studded, talent-laden Beermen squad last year, Custodio performed well to earn a spot on the All-Rookie selection by the PBA Press Corps. He played for San Miguel’s farm team in the PBL before being elevated to the pro ranks. He was the eighth pick in the 2008 annual draft.
San Miguel Beer continued to rebuild its aging lineup, acquiring Joseph Yeo from Sta. Lucia in exchange for Bonbon Custodio five days before the opening of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Beermen, who settled for third place after losing to the eventual champions Purefoods Giants in the recent Philippine Cup, have bolstered their backcourt rotation with Yeo’s acquisition, which came on the heels of an earlier trade deal involving Alex Cabagnot and Mike Cortez.
Yeo, a former La Salle standout, blossomed into a fine playmaker with Sta. Lucia after a forgettable stint with Coca-Cola in the 2006-07 campaign.
In his second season with Sta. Lucia last year, Yeo effectively played his off-the-bench role, winding up as the team’s second-best scorer behind Kelly Williams with a 13.5-point average.
He also normed 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists in a remarkable season, prompting the team management to give him a three-year contract-extension worth the maximum pay allowed in the league.
Meanwhile, Custodio, a product of University of the East, is in his second year in the pro league, also playing the off-the-bench role creditably.
The only rookie in the star-studded, talent-laden Beermen squad last year, Custodio performed well to earn a spot on the All-Rookie selection by the PBA Press Corps. He played for San Miguel’s farm team in the PBL before being elevated to the pro ranks. He was the eighth pick in the 2008 annual draft.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Ginebra mas palaban sa pagputok ng PBA Fiesta Conference!
source: Russell Cadayona (Pilipino Star Ngayon)
MANILA, Philippines - Kumpiyansa si coach Jong Uichico na malaki ang magiging pagbabago sa Barangay Ginebra sa nalalapit na 2009-2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Ito, ayon kay Uichico, ay dahil na rin sa pagkakahugot nila kay 6-foot-9 Yancy De Ocampo mula sa Air21 para kina Rich Alvarez at Doug Kramer at ang pagkuha kay 6’6 import Awvee Storey.
“I just think that the other teams are getting stronger than us in terms of manpower,” ani Uichico. “We are injecting new blood, new players in the team.”
Si De Ocampo, dinala ng Talk ‘N Text sa Air21 kasama si Ren-Ren Ritualo, Jr. kapalit nina 6’6 JR Quiñahan, Mark Yee at Aaron Aban, ang magiging lehitimong sentro ng Gin Kings.
Makakatuwang ni De Ocampo sa shaded lane sina 6’5 Eric Menk, 6’5 Rico Villanueva at 6’5 Billy Mamaril
Kung may kailangan pa si Uichico, ito ay isang pointguard na makakatulong nina 2009 PBA Most Valuable Player Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid at Cyrus Baguio.
Lumutang ang balitang gustong hugutin ng Ginebra si Fil-Am Alex Cabagnot mula sa Air21 para kay Baguio.
Inaasahan naman ni Uichico na makakasabay sa kanilang sistema ang 32-anyos namang si Storey, isang NBA veteran at minsan nang naging kakampi ni NBA superstar Gilbert Arenas sa Washington Wizards.
“He’s an all-around player. Hopefully, kapag nadagdagan na ‘yung team ng mga kulang na players he will fit into the system of the team,” wika ni Uichico kay Storey.
Ang 6’6 na si Storey ay produkto ng Arizona State at 16 beses na nagtala ng double-double performance sa kanyang 85-game career.
Noong 2000-01, nakatanggap siya ng Pac-10 Honorable Mention honours matapos maglista ng mga career-high sa puntos (13.1) at rebounds (9.1).
MANILA, Philippines - Kumpiyansa si coach Jong Uichico na malaki ang magiging pagbabago sa Barangay Ginebra sa nalalapit na 2009-2010 PBA Fiesta Conference.
Ito, ayon kay Uichico, ay dahil na rin sa pagkakahugot nila kay 6-foot-9 Yancy De Ocampo mula sa Air21 para kina Rich Alvarez at Doug Kramer at ang pagkuha kay 6’6 import Awvee Storey.
“I just think that the other teams are getting stronger than us in terms of manpower,” ani Uichico. “We are injecting new blood, new players in the team.”
Si De Ocampo, dinala ng Talk ‘N Text sa Air21 kasama si Ren-Ren Ritualo, Jr. kapalit nina 6’6 JR Quiñahan, Mark Yee at Aaron Aban, ang magiging lehitimong sentro ng Gin Kings.
Makakatuwang ni De Ocampo sa shaded lane sina 6’5 Eric Menk, 6’5 Rico Villanueva at 6’5 Billy Mamaril
Kung may kailangan pa si Uichico, ito ay isang pointguard na makakatulong nina 2009 PBA Most Valuable Player Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid at Cyrus Baguio.
Lumutang ang balitang gustong hugutin ng Ginebra si Fil-Am Alex Cabagnot mula sa Air21 para kay Baguio.
Inaasahan naman ni Uichico na makakasabay sa kanilang sistema ang 32-anyos namang si Storey, isang NBA veteran at minsan nang naging kakampi ni NBA superstar Gilbert Arenas sa Washington Wizards.
“He’s an all-around player. Hopefully, kapag nadagdagan na ‘yung team ng mga kulang na players he will fit into the system of the team,” wika ni Uichico kay Storey.
Ang 6’6 na si Storey ay produkto ng Arizona State at 16 beses na nagtala ng double-double performance sa kanyang 85-game career.
Noong 2000-01, nakatanggap siya ng Pac-10 Honorable Mention honours matapos maglista ng mga career-high sa puntos (13.1) at rebounds (9.1).
Sunday, March 14, 2010
PBA celebs play ‘Pacfans’ and boxing buffs in Pacquiao-Clottey
source: Rey Joble | gmanews.tv
It’s been a normal practice. The entire nation always stands still every time pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao climbs the ring.
On Sunday, officials and coaches from the Philippine Basketball Association took time off their regular routines to watch Pacquiao defend his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against Joshua Clottey of Ghana.
True-blue "Pacfans," they watched the fight with great anticipation and many of them ended up quite disappointed with the way the Ghanaian challenger fought the best boxer in the world today.
“Sanay na kasi tayo sa mga knockouts ni Pacquiao eh," PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios told GMANews.TV. “Even ako nag-aantay na pabagsakin ni Pacquiao si Clottey, who suddenly became content surviving the fight than try winning it."
Coaches Chot Reyes of Talk ‘N Text, Tim Cone of Alaska, Bo Perasol of Coca-Cola, Siot Tanquingcen of San Miguel Beer, Asean Basketball League mentor Louie Alas of the Philippine Patriots and former Sta. Lucia bench tactician Alfrancis Chua also had things to say about the bout.
“I watched through my CIGNAL TV. All I can say is, itong taga-Ghana, nakakawalang gana," Reyes wrote on his Twitter account.
Reyes also urged former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. to go and face Pacquiao in what could be the biggest bout ever. The two boxers were the ones supposed to battle Sunday, but the negotiations bogged down due to disagreement over dope-testing procedures.
“Come on, Mayweather. Stop running away from the only fight left this century," said Reyes, the only coach to win the PBA All-Filipino championship for three different teams.
Cone, whose team is currently in Cebu to play the Niños and have their team-building sessions, tuned in to the radio to get updates on Pacquiao’s fight. The multi-titled mentor said his import, Diamon Simpson, is a huge Pacquiao fan and was one of those very excited to follow the fight.
“The whole Alaska team is here at the beach waiting for the Pacman show. But who cares for Alaska, this is Pacquiao’s Day," said Cone on his Twitter account.
For Perasol, they got themselves a pay-per-view telecast and even invited their neighbors to watch with them. Like many, the coach and his gang ended up frustrated.
“It’s very frustrating in a way. Boxing is supposed to be offense and defense. Naging offense si Pacman and defense naman si Clottey," said Perasol in a text message.
Tanquingcen anticipated the bout won’t be as exciting given the fighting style of Clottey and so he didn’t avail of a PPV telecast and opted to watch the bout on a delayed basis.
Alas and Chua shared different views.
“In a way, happy na rin ako dahil nanalo pa rin si Pacquiao," said Alas, who watched a PPV screening at the Alabang Town Center.
Chua had mixed emotions.
“Pangit ng laban. Ayaw lumaban nung kalaban," said Chua, who watched through his friend’s Playdium. “The good thing is, Pacquiao won." - GMANews.TV
It’s been a normal practice. The entire nation always stands still every time pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao climbs the ring.
On Sunday, officials and coaches from the Philippine Basketball Association took time off their regular routines to watch Pacquiao defend his World Boxing Organization welterweight title against Joshua Clottey of Ghana.
True-blue "Pacfans," they watched the fight with great anticipation and many of them ended up quite disappointed with the way the Ghanaian challenger fought the best boxer in the world today.
“Sanay na kasi tayo sa mga knockouts ni Pacquiao eh," PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios told GMANews.TV. “Even ako nag-aantay na pabagsakin ni Pacquiao si Clottey, who suddenly became content surviving the fight than try winning it."
Coaches Chot Reyes of Talk ‘N Text, Tim Cone of Alaska, Bo Perasol of Coca-Cola, Siot Tanquingcen of San Miguel Beer, Asean Basketball League mentor Louie Alas of the Philippine Patriots and former Sta. Lucia bench tactician Alfrancis Chua also had things to say about the bout.
“I watched through my CIGNAL TV. All I can say is, itong taga-Ghana, nakakawalang gana," Reyes wrote on his Twitter account.
Reyes also urged former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. to go and face Pacquiao in what could be the biggest bout ever. The two boxers were the ones supposed to battle Sunday, but the negotiations bogged down due to disagreement over dope-testing procedures.
“Come on, Mayweather. Stop running away from the only fight left this century," said Reyes, the only coach to win the PBA All-Filipino championship for three different teams.
Cone, whose team is currently in Cebu to play the Niños and have their team-building sessions, tuned in to the radio to get updates on Pacquiao’s fight. The multi-titled mentor said his import, Diamon Simpson, is a huge Pacquiao fan and was one of those very excited to follow the fight.
“The whole Alaska team is here at the beach waiting for the Pacman show. But who cares for Alaska, this is Pacquiao’s Day," said Cone on his Twitter account.
For Perasol, they got themselves a pay-per-view telecast and even invited their neighbors to watch with them. Like many, the coach and his gang ended up frustrated.
“It’s very frustrating in a way. Boxing is supposed to be offense and defense. Naging offense si Pacman and defense naman si Clottey," said Perasol in a text message.
Tanquingcen anticipated the bout won’t be as exciting given the fighting style of Clottey and so he didn’t avail of a PPV telecast and opted to watch the bout on a delayed basis.
Alas and Chua shared different views.
“In a way, happy na rin ako dahil nanalo pa rin si Pacquiao," said Alas, who watched a PPV screening at the Alabang Town Center.
Chua had mixed emotions.
“Pangit ng laban. Ayaw lumaban nung kalaban," said Chua, who watched through his friend’s Playdium. “The good thing is, Pacquiao won." - GMANews.TV
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Beermen keep Cabagnot as trade stalls sans conduit
By Arman Carandang
03/12/2010
San Miguel Beer has decided to keep Alex Cabagnot for the meantime, giving the small ball handler an opportunity to fit into coach Siot Tanquincen’s system in preparation for the PBA Fiesta Conference, set to unfold in the next few days.
Reports had it that the 27-year-old southpaw guard would be going to Barangay Ginebra which is in need of a healthy sentinel owing to health problems of the Kings’ three top guards — Jayjay Helterbrand, Celino Cruz and Johnny Abarrientos.
That was the original plan, but in a sudden change of heart, SMB opted to give Cabagnot a chance to prove his worth for the star-studded SMB team, the defending champion in the season-ending tournament.
It was gathered that Cabagnot was indeed to be shifted to the Kings but there was no conduit to effect the trade between the sister teams. Direct trade between sister teams are not allowed in the league.
Cabagnot was traded to the Beermen for Mike Cortez in a one-on-one deal with Air21. San Miguel is his fourth team in five seasons in the league.
“For the meantime, focus muna siya sa San Miguel and coach Siot told him na titingnan pa niya kung magiging effective ba siya sa team together with Jonas (Villanueva) and Denok (Miranda),” said Espiritu.
According to Espiritu, Tanquincen wanted to maximize the talents of his three point guards, but if it is not possible, the trade would still push through.
Cabagnot was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2005 rookie draft but after playing two seasons, Cabagnot was dealt to Coca-Cola where he played for two seasons before he was traded to Air21 (formerly Burger King) in the latter part of the current season.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/sports/20100312spo5.html
03/12/2010
San Miguel Beer has decided to keep Alex Cabagnot for the meantime, giving the small ball handler an opportunity to fit into coach Siot Tanquincen’s system in preparation for the PBA Fiesta Conference, set to unfold in the next few days.
Reports had it that the 27-year-old southpaw guard would be going to Barangay Ginebra which is in need of a healthy sentinel owing to health problems of the Kings’ three top guards — Jayjay Helterbrand, Celino Cruz and Johnny Abarrientos.
That was the original plan, but in a sudden change of heart, SMB opted to give Cabagnot a chance to prove his worth for the star-studded SMB team, the defending champion in the season-ending tournament.
It was gathered that Cabagnot was indeed to be shifted to the Kings but there was no conduit to effect the trade between the sister teams. Direct trade between sister teams are not allowed in the league.
Cabagnot was traded to the Beermen for Mike Cortez in a one-on-one deal with Air21. San Miguel is his fourth team in five seasons in the league.
“For the meantime, focus muna siya sa San Miguel and coach Siot told him na titingnan pa niya kung magiging effective ba siya sa team together with Jonas (Villanueva) and Denok (Miranda),” said Espiritu.
According to Espiritu, Tanquincen wanted to maximize the talents of his three point guards, but if it is not possible, the trade would still push through.
Cabagnot was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2005 rookie draft but after playing two seasons, Cabagnot was dealt to Coca-Cola where he played for two seasons before he was traded to Air21 (formerly Burger King) in the latter part of the current season.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/sports/20100312spo5.html
Healthy Gin Kings source of joy for Jong
MANILA, Philippines—So far, Jong Uichico is having none of the problems that besieged his Barangay Ginebra crew in the last PBA tournament.
“So far, so good,” Uichico told the Inquirer Wednesday, shortly after a practice game against Rain or Shine.
Although his boys lost by four points, Uichico was upbeat of his Gin Kings’ chances in the coming Fiesta Conference because all his stars are healthy so far.
“I just hope it stays that way,” added the multi-titled mentor, who is gunning for a second win in three years in the import-flavored, season-ending event with reinforcement Awvee Storey.
Reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa, Ginebra’s heart and soul who sat out majority of the Philippine Cup because of varying leg injuries, are now 100-percent fit and Uichico made it no secret that the duo will again play a great role in the Kings’ coming stint.
Ginebra won this tournament two years ago with a 7-foot reinforcement in Chris Alexander, a gem of an import unveiled by the Kings who are hoping that they have found another diamond in the rough in Storey.
“He’s not flashy, but he is very hardworking and he is very effective,” Uichico said, even as he expressed some sort of disappointment that he wasn’t able to land Alex Cabagnot from Air21 to address his backcourt need.
The soft-spoken coach is also confident that he can give Yancy De Ocampo a second wind in his career.
“I know what they (experts) have been saying, that Yancy is slow and that Yancy is lazy and all of those things,” Uichico said. “But to me, he is a player that complements what the team already has.”
Meanwhile, only three returning imports are in the official list—Gabriel Freeman of the defending champion San Miguel Beermen, burly Jai Lewis of Rain or Shine and Coca-Cola’s James Penny.
Alaska will parade wiry NBA D-League standout Diamon Simpson, Talk ‘N Text will have Eric Hicks and Air21 will be bannered by Larry Hickerson.
Source: Musong R. Castillo, Philippine Daily Inquirer
“So far, so good,” Uichico told the Inquirer Wednesday, shortly after a practice game against Rain or Shine.
Although his boys lost by four points, Uichico was upbeat of his Gin Kings’ chances in the coming Fiesta Conference because all his stars are healthy so far.
“I just hope it stays that way,” added the multi-titled mentor, who is gunning for a second win in three years in the import-flavored, season-ending event with reinforcement Awvee Storey.
Reigning MVP Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa, Ginebra’s heart and soul who sat out majority of the Philippine Cup because of varying leg injuries, are now 100-percent fit and Uichico made it no secret that the duo will again play a great role in the Kings’ coming stint.
Ginebra won this tournament two years ago with a 7-foot reinforcement in Chris Alexander, a gem of an import unveiled by the Kings who are hoping that they have found another diamond in the rough in Storey.
“He’s not flashy, but he is very hardworking and he is very effective,” Uichico said, even as he expressed some sort of disappointment that he wasn’t able to land Alex Cabagnot from Air21 to address his backcourt need.
The soft-spoken coach is also confident that he can give Yancy De Ocampo a second wind in his career.
“I know what they (experts) have been saying, that Yancy is slow and that Yancy is lazy and all of those things,” Uichico said. “But to me, he is a player that complements what the team already has.”
Meanwhile, only three returning imports are in the official list—Gabriel Freeman of the defending champion San Miguel Beermen, burly Jai Lewis of Rain or Shine and Coca-Cola’s James Penny.
Alaska will parade wiry NBA D-League standout Diamon Simpson, Talk ‘N Text will have Eric Hicks and Air21 will be bannered by Larry Hickerson.
Source: Musong R. Castillo, Philippine Daily Inquirer
Simpson hopes to carry Aces all the way in Fiesta Conf., Freeman, Lewis, AJ back
source: PBA.ph
Their pride in tatters after another title bust in the recent Philippine Cup, the Alaska Aces hope to turn their fortunes around in the coming PBA Fiesta Conference with the help of a 22-year-old recognized for his defense.
Diamon Simpson, named to the All-America Defensive Team while playing for the St. Mary’s Gaels, has been signed up by Aces to beef up the team in the season-ending conference that starts on March 21 at the Araneta Coliseum.
The presence of Simpson along with new recruit Sam Eman and Sonny Thoss shores up Alaska’s frontline, no wonder Alaska coach Tim Cone is excited about his new starting lineup.
Simpson averaged 15.5 points and 9.6 rebounds while playing for the Los Angeles D-Fenders in the National Basketball Association Developmental League.
But his strongest suit is his defensive acumen. He averaged 1.7 steals and 1.6 blocks per game while playing the power forward spot for his collegiate squad. In 2008, he was cited as Defensive Player of the Year by CollegeInsider.com.
Leroy Hickerson, a two-time slam dunk champion in the Mexican League, was scheduled to arrive last night to carry the colors of Air21.
Hickerson is listed as 6-foot-5. He ruled the slam dunk competition in the Mexican LNBP All-Star Game in 2008 and 2009. He worked out with the Memphis Grizzlies last summer and was named Player of the Year, Guard of the Year and Import Player of the Year by Latinbasket.com.
In 41 games last year, Hickerson averaged 19.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.2 steals per game while playing for the Halcones UV Xalapa.
Sta. Lucia, Rain or Shine and defending champion San Miguel Beer are bringing in old faces.
The Realtors are launching their campaign in the Fiesta Conference with Anthony Johnson while burly import Jai Lewis will beef up the Elasto Painters. The Beermen are once again counting on Gabe Freeman to lead their title retention drive.
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UPDATE: Air 21's import Leroy Hickerson (sigh, he is full of potential and a real exciting cager) won't make it... he broke an elbow in a car accident in Mexico hours before boarding a plane for RP. His replacement, Keena Young! (via Snow Badua)
Their pride in tatters after another title bust in the recent Philippine Cup, the Alaska Aces hope to turn their fortunes around in the coming PBA Fiesta Conference with the help of a 22-year-old recognized for his defense.
Diamon Simpson, named to the All-America Defensive Team while playing for the St. Mary’s Gaels, has been signed up by Aces to beef up the team in the season-ending conference that starts on March 21 at the Araneta Coliseum.
The presence of Simpson along with new recruit Sam Eman and Sonny Thoss shores up Alaska’s frontline, no wonder Alaska coach Tim Cone is excited about his new starting lineup.
Simpson averaged 15.5 points and 9.6 rebounds while playing for the Los Angeles D-Fenders in the National Basketball Association Developmental League.
But his strongest suit is his defensive acumen. He averaged 1.7 steals and 1.6 blocks per game while playing the power forward spot for his collegiate squad. In 2008, he was cited as Defensive Player of the Year by CollegeInsider.com.
Leroy Hickerson, a two-time slam dunk champion in the Mexican League, was scheduled to arrive last night to carry the colors of Air21.
Hickerson is listed as 6-foot-5. He ruled the slam dunk competition in the Mexican LNBP All-Star Game in 2008 and 2009. He worked out with the Memphis Grizzlies last summer and was named Player of the Year, Guard of the Year and Import Player of the Year by Latinbasket.com.
In 41 games last year, Hickerson averaged 19.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.2 steals per game while playing for the Halcones UV Xalapa.
Sta. Lucia, Rain or Shine and defending champion San Miguel Beer are bringing in old faces.
The Realtors are launching their campaign in the Fiesta Conference with Anthony Johnson while burly import Jai Lewis will beef up the Elasto Painters. The Beermen are once again counting on Gabe Freeman to lead their title retention drive.
--------
UPDATE: Air 21's import Leroy Hickerson (sigh, he is full of potential and a real exciting cager) won't make it... he broke an elbow in a car accident in Mexico hours before boarding a plane for RP. His replacement, Keena Young! (via Snow Badua)
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