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.
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