Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton

Like I always do, few weeks before a Manny Pacquiao mega-fight, I’ll be posting Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton news/article links in this post. (I’ll edit this post as news/links come in.)

Ring Magazine’s panel sees a Manny Pacquiao victory

At least 17 of the 20 boxing personalities polled by The Ring magazine had picked Manny Pacquiao to roll past Ricky Hatton in their May 2 showdown at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Two former Hatton opponents in Paul Malignaggi and Luis Collazo were among those who placed their money on the Filipino boxing sensation.

Freddie Roach, Floyd Mayweather Sr. star in war of the words

Mayweather Sr. trains Hatton, Roach trains Pacquiao. The fighters are fine. The trainers can’t stand each other. And so, in a room called a pavilion and named for a former publisher, a room blessed over the years with the presence of presidents and kings, where news decisions and editorial policy affecting millions were formulated, Mayweather Sr. and Roach did some verbal street-fighting. The tablecloth needed graffiti.

HBO banks on Pacquiao, Hatton to draw younger viewers to boxing

Premium television programming giant HBO is banking on the huge popularity and appeal of both Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton to attract younger viewers to the sport as it unveils its Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7 preview series. Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7 is a four-part series that will extensively chronicle the respective training of Filipino pound for pound king Pacquiao and British bomber Hatton for their May 2 pay-per-view fight in Las Vegas. According to HBO senior vice president of sports operations Mark Taffet, HBO looks at Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7 as a tool to draw 18- to 49-year-old males to a sport whose median viewing age skews over 35.

Pacman-Hatton Rematch Planned, in Darts

Pacquiao-Marquez III possible, says Roach

Juan Manuel Marquez may yet get his longtime wish – another go at nemesis Manny Pacquiao – afterall. Trainer Freddie Roach revealed that Marquez, the Mexican fighter who has fought his ward Pacquiao in two close contests, could be up next for the Filipino superstar after Ricky Hatton. But that is, if plans to pit Pacquiao with the coming-out-of-retirement Floyd Mayweather, Jr. would not materialize. Mayweather, Jr. is rumored to be getting back to the ring to challenge his successor at the P4P throne, Pacquiao. “If the negotiation with Floyd doesn’t work out I’m sure it’s Marquez. Where else do we have to go?” Roach said, as quoted by fighthype.com.

Pacquiao to Feel Pain - Hatton

Ricky “Hitman” Hatton is of the belief that he can withstand the power of Manny Pacquiao on May 2 and that the Filipino cannot say the same thing. “He’s been shaken up a few times,” Hatton said, noting that Russian-Australian Kostya Tszyu and the rugged New York-born Puerto Rican Luis Collazo hit him the hardest but they couldn’t finish him off. And because Pacquiao is so awkward and flawed, Hatton said he will succeed in getting inside without being damaged on the way in. Once Hatton gets to within inhaling distance, the British banger said Pacquiao is going to feel pain he’s never felt before, getting supreme confidence from the fact that the pound-for-pound king had been knocked out once with a shot to the body.

P400,000 to watch Pacman with the Stars

For an eye-popping $8,330, you can watch the Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton fight seated alongside Hollywood stars like Russel Crowe, Sylvester Stallone, Eva Longoria, Mark Wahlberg or Jennifer Lopez. Yes, $8,330, or at the current foreign exchange rate, roughly P400,000, amid the financial crisis. That’s how much the best seat in the house in MGM Grand Arena isbeing offered, peddled and sold over the Internet barely a month before the biggest fight of the year so far takes place in Las Vegas.

Ricky Hatton vs. Manny Pacquiao: Smoke & Mirrors

If there’s one thing I can’t stand more than anything is an over-hyped fighter like Manny Pacquiao. I don’t mind Pacquiao getting a little praise for some of his accomplishments, but honestly Manny hasn’t done all that much in his career against what I consider quality fighters. Ricky Hatton, by far, is going to be the best opponent of his career on May 2nd.

Pacquiao: KO not my game plan

Don’t expect Manny Pacquiao to win by knockout over Ricky Hatton in their May 2 showdown in Las Vegas for the Briton’s WBO light welterweight title. No, the pound-for-pound king has not lost his killer instinct. He just wants to concentrate on the fight and exploit Hatton’s weaknesses, which the Filipino said are aplenty. “I expect him to be coming forward and fight toe-to-toe, and I like that,” Pacquiao told www.mirror.co.uk. “I’m not looking for a knockout.” “I don’t want any distractions in my mind,” the Filipino superstar added.

Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton HBO Special, Episode 1

(edited, 12:30pm, apr 24 2009)

SYDMAN’S SIDE DEFECT: All-Time Worst NBA second overall picks from 1966 to 2004

Just like a Sharon Cuneta commercial, if you have a number one, then definitely you have a number 2, 3, 4, etc. Imagine, you are one lottery pick away from capturing top spot but as fate would have it, they have to settle for the second-best player available.

But what if the next best choice is a tad crappy than the 57th best choice?

When the present “look” of the draft started in 1966, the second top picks often made an impact as important as those who were picked first… the saviors some might say.

By the way, the reason why a chose to end this until 2004 is because I might eat my words when guys like Michael Beasley and Marvin Williams ultimately suffer superstar outburst while LaMarcus Aldridge and Kevin Durant suddenly flop their next ten seasons (or when they get waived by their then team).

Anyway, for every Elvin Hayes was a Wes Unseld. For every Elton Brand, there’s a Steve Francis. For every Shaquille O’Neal, there is an Alonzo Mourning.

So on… and so forth.

Let’s look at the worse possible ways to waste this heralded position.

10. Darko Milicic (2003) – Detroit
2003 Top Pick: LeBron James – Cleveland

Gosh… this is tough. For one thing, I like Darko. I thought the Pistons made a wrong choice in under-developing him. If they used him wisely, then he’ll get first dibs on the spot vacated by Ben Wallace. Remember when the Pistons made a booboo and took Nazr Mohammed to replace Big Ben while they let Darko off to Orlando where he was blossoming? Detroit wasted precious dinero on that situation (they made wise when they nurtured Jason Maxiell but again made a stupid choice in selecting Allen Iverson for Chauncey Billups). Just when people think that it is Darko time, he stopped developing! Sure, for a five-year pro, the 23-year-old could still prosper. I myself want to be wrong in this choice. But he needs to evolve now, with Memphis (his new team) a starting lineup less of a contender.

9. Keith Van Horn (1997) – New Jersey (from PHI)
1997 Top Pick: Tim Duncan – San Antonio

1996 was the lockout season. Under the “dark” ages, San Antonio’s starting lineup was virtually wiped out because of injuries which resulted into a VERY poor season for the Spurs. In this predicament, the Spurs claimed first pick rights which became NBA superstar Tim Duncan. The Nets, second to pick, took in this University of Utah standout. Dimmed as the next Larry Bird, Van Horn seemed to fit the bill in his early years. However, during the first of two New Jersey final berths, players finally found the chink in his armor which will destroy his image completely – he was a liability in defense. The following season he was traded to the Sixers for the rights of Dikembe Mutombo. After his stint with the Nets he bounced to four teams in four years. The once-feared long tom artist is now a scout for the Nets.

8. Neal Walk (1969) – Phoenix
1969 Top Pick: Lew Alcindor – Milwaukee

After the Bucks selected Alcindor, Walk went to the recently-founded Suns. For you basketball dumbasses, Alcindor will become the biggest name in the business when he changes his name to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Meanwhile, Walk was more of a backup rather than a superstar to teammates. Walk played for the Suns for five years before moving to New Orleans and New York… two years later the Suns will win their first and only NBA championship. After his NBA stint, he would play in Italy and Israel. In 1988, a benign tumor in his spine left him confined in a wheelchair. In stark contrast when he was playing with both legs, he was magic when he played for the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. In 1990, then-President George Bush honored Walk at the White House with an “Wheelchair Athlete of the Year” citation. He currently works for the Community Affairs Department of the Phoenix Suns.

7. Sam Bowie (1984) – Portland (from IND)
1984 Top Pick: Hakeem Olajuwon – Houston
1984 3rd Pick: Michael Jordan – Chicago

I am not like those players out to blame Bowie for being the filling of this superstar sandwich! Like what the critics said, if the Blazers have already Drexler and Jim Paxson (John’s older and more better brother), then an untested Jordan would be the odd man out. With that said, Bowie was good for 10 points and 7 rebounds in his 12-year career. The only problem that surfaced clearly was his inability to stay healthy. In Portland he was merely an “on-bench” guy because he can’t play. When he was traded to New Jersey (for Buck Williams) he eventually had spurts but he was clearly a role player for guys like Derrick Coleman and Kenny Anderson. He played his last years as a Laker, where he again suffered the same fate he had when he was in Portland. In the 2005 Sports Illustrated article entitled “20 Biggest Draft Busts”, he was number one on the list. Even if people forget that he was the guy before Jordan, in that fateful 1984 Draft, he was also the guy above Charles Barkley, Sam Perkins, Kevin Willis, Alvin Robertson, and John Stockton. There was nothing he can do to save his image.

6. Shawn Bradley (1993) – Philadelphia
1993 Top Pick: Chris Webber – Golden State (from Orlando)

Dammit, this guy was on SPACE JAM! HE’S SUPPOSED TO BE GOOD! Does this mean that the oddball alien that got his skills either sucked more or actually made his skill-set work!?! OH MY GHULAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!

Ehem.

The 7’6 German-American was a highly-anticipated prospect from Brigham Young University which was the same school that produced current Boston GM Danny Ainge. Bradley is a mormon and for years of playing he garnered such monikers like The Stormin’ Mormon, The Deathstick, Missionary Impossible, Mormon Mantis, and the Praying Mantis. Anyway, he has size and defensive assertiveness to land him a Number 2 spot in the 1993 Draft. Poor Philly, the highly-anticipated recruit was nothing more than a beanpole that could easily be banged. Despite the fact he was an amazing blocker; coaches find his lack of aggressive nature intolerable. He found himself routed to New Jersey and then to Dallas, where he found himself being a starter and then dwindling into a underused backup. Just like guys with gigantism, his buckling knees were enough to hand him his retirement in 2005. He also teamed up with Dirk Nowitzki in the German National Team that finished fourth place in the 2001 EuroBasket tourney which was held in Turkey.

5. Stromile Swift (2000) – Vancouver
2000 Top Pick: Kenyon Martin – New Jersey

In their draft class, the best player is Michael Redd, an unheralded player picked 43rd by the Milwaukee Bucks. This “unheralded” player is an all-star and part of the world famous “Redeem Team” of the Beijing Olympics. Swift on the other hand, is a forever project. A project that had a potential to bloom but unfortunately couldn’t. The expectations were high when he was picked up by the Grizzles (which eventually moved to Memphis) but he couldn’t raise his game up. He is now playing for the Suns who is in need of a “backup” center. In hindsight, this is in a way, fortunate for the former LSU star because most of his 2000 Draft batch mates have either died, retired, or playing outside the States where a call-up shouldn’t be expected from now ‘til eternity.

4. Steve Stipanovich (1983) – Indiana
1983 Top Pick: Ralph Sampson – Houston

One would wonder: Who on earth!?! A product of the University of Missouri, “Stipo” led his team to 100 wins in a span of four years. Basically he’s like the classic “old school” big man in the likes of George Mikan and those other 50’s ballers but with a modern flavor. When he was picked up by Indiana, the Pacers passed on swingmen like Byron Scott, Dale Ellis, Jeff Malone, Derrick Harper, big man Antoine Carr and Thurl Bailey and most importantly, 14th pick overall Clyde Drexler. Even if they got Sampson, they’ll suffer the same fate since both men had to end their careers early because of their overabundance of injuries.

3. Marvin Barnes (1974) – Philadelphia
1974 Top Pick: Bill Walton – Portland

Back in his day, the NBA found itself competing with the ABA. Despite getting picked second overall, Barnes chose to sign a contract with the ABA’s Spirits of St. Louis. His monikers include Bad News, Marvelous, and Tire Iron. Why Tire Iron? He threatened a teammate by attempting to swing it to his face. Again, drugs and his volatile behavior drove him to basketball hell. When the ABA folded, he bounced on to four teams where his career eventually tanked. Philly could have loved it more if they nabbed Walton instead of this guy.

2. Jay Williams (2002) – Chicago
2002 Top Pick: Yao Ming – Houston

When Houston chose Chairman Yao, Williams was said to be the “next best thing”. After a great playmaking career in Duke, the Bulls sought for his services ahead of Caron Butler and former teammate Carlos Boozer. The results were kind of good… Williams struggled in his scoring but showed clear skills to lead the Bulls as its chief playmaker. However, just like Duke alum Bobby Hurley, Williams suffered a car accident which pretty much finished his hoop career. After a failed comeback, the prep guard is now doing announcing chores in ESPN’s college b-ball games. His injury paved the way for the Bulls drafting Kirk Hinrich in the following draft.

1. Len Bias (1986) – Boston
1986 Top Pick: Brad Daugherty – Cleveland

Less than 48 hours after getting drafted, Bias died due to cocaine overdose. He could have been the vital cog in strengthening Boston’s aging frontline. Had he gone on to become one of league’s elite, Paul Pierce could not have possibly worn #34 as his number. After his death, the NBA strictly imposed a more cohesive anti-drug policy. While Daugherty would have not become a big star if he landed with the Celts, at least Boston would have a fresh face to displace their now-often injured vets. Instead, what they had was a championship-less decade that could have been solved if they had Bias.

Then here it is. Looking back Stipanovich had it bad for being outstaged by a dead guy, a career-ending injury, and a druggie. Other players that should have made the list were Danny Ferry (for being the consolation price when San Antonio picked David Robinson in the 1989 Draft), 1976 Chicago pick Scott May (who was an injury stricken player and whose current claim to fame is fathering current Charlotte Bobcats often-injured star Sean May),1979 Chicago pick David Greenwood (whose coin toss of doom sent Chicago to lose to the Lakers for the rights of legendary player Magic Johnson), 1973 Cleveland pick Jim Brewer, and David Meyers, a little-known draft pick by the Lakers whose rights were traded to Milwaukee for the acquisition of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. His sister, Ann, was the only woman to sign a free agent contract by an NBA team (in 1979 she was signed by the Pacers).

So here goes this installment. For comments and ridiculous brain doodling, just fill out the “fontbox” below.

Game Over.

Do’s & Dont’s Inside Billiards Hall

We played pool last night. And, during the time I was on “sit-out”, I came up with some do’s and dont’s in pool/billiards hall that could result for optimum play and more importantly, keep you out of trouble inside pool hal.

I got 9-balls for the do’s. And, 15-balls for the dont’s.

Let’s break it down!

The Do’s…

1. Do use the bridge (tiririt).
2. Do take your time. But still, play at a pace acceptable to your mates. I’m sure he/she too would want reasonable time on their turns. Talk it out.
3. Do take the game seriously if the table fee and food is on the line. Where we play, this could range P500 to P1000 if I am having a bad night. (ok, I admit, I’ve been having bad nights these days.)
4. Do plan ahead. For amateurs (ahem), it would be great if you could plan the shots with maybe 2 to 3 next balls in mind, at the least.
5. Do practice. If your mates are still not around, you can grab a table and set-up 8-ball rack and practice some shots. Alternate between solids and stripes balls and simulate at 2-man game play. But for your own sanity, just don’t talk to yourself loudly when you’re alone and simulating an 8-ball game.
6. Do trash talk if you’re playing with someone you know, a close friend, and your husband or wife. Just don’t trash talk while they are pocketing/shooting. It is ok to trash talk to your Husband or Wife. Trash talking is good. We are talking about pool here.
7. Do watch your beer intake inside the hall. Pool hall is not the place where you get to be wasted.
8. Do act like a gentleman. Pool/billards rules have a lot of gray areas. Stay calm and don’t be acrybaby when pointing out, explaining, clarifying some rules. Shake hands after the pool session.
9. Do make a tip to the spotter/waitress.

The Dont’s

1. Don’t friggin enter the pool hall in chaleco, and on full battle gear. That’s just cheesy.
2. Don’t covet thy next table’s player’s chick.
3. Don’t pick thy neighbor’s chalk (tisa). (And somewhat related, don’t take home the house chalk)
4. Don’t stand around near the table or worse, circle around the table when it’s not your turn.
5. Do not look at the sexy spotter’s butt and/or cleavage.
6. Subsequently, do not look at ladies players’ butt/cleavage while playing. But for super sexy chick players, OK, go ahead look a little. Get a glimpse so you’ll be inspired to shoot!
7. Don’t smoke where it is prohibited.
8. Don’t turn the pool table as your ash tray or beer top. Also, don’t turn the table as your scoreboard. Some people write down scores straight to cloth and rails. Please don’t.
9. Don’t make unnecessary noise when your opponent is aiming and shooting.
10. Don’t bring your camera inside the hall, this is just a distraction if you are out FTW.
11. Don’t effin request for photo ops and autographs every time you see Django Bustamante and Boy Samson Luat in the house.
12. Don’t flirt with the waitress if your age is 60 years old and above. BUT, if you are fairly young, go ahead feel free to flirt. I hereby declare, it is OK!
13. Don’t friggin turn yourself into a commentator while watching others’ play. Especially if you don’t know them.
14. And for Crissakes, if its non-tournament game, don’t  clap after a great shot.
15. FINALLY… Do not effin shout “SET! SET!” when requesting for table set. One word is fine. That is, SET! (This is one great mystery to me. Why, when calling for table reset, players tend to say… “SET! SET!”)

As you can see, I got few do’s. That’s representative of my technical know-how of pool. But hey. at least you got a lot of dont’s that will help you not be ejected from billiards hall. And that is good enough.

On my next pool installment, I’ll teach you the mechanics of Masse shots!!! Serious.

AND BY THE WAY…

Pretty please vote for MICA ABESAMIS for the hottest side court reporter alive. The POLLS here.

Is Ginebra’s last minute choke down the biggest failure in PBA history?

In case you didn’t watch the game earlier.., here’s the story.

Second half starts, Alaska goes on a run and as I got home from the market, I watched as Ginebra climbs back from a 13 point Alaska lead with dazzling dunks by Rod Nealy and great plays by Jayjay Helterbrand.

Since then, Ginebra went on a tear as the Aces seems clueless on what hit them. Momentum was clearly on Ginebra’s side as the crowd got into it. Nealy, Tubid, Intal and my boy Wi-Will (Awful nickname. Lol) was providing Ginebra the much needed energy they missed in the start of the third.

Read more

Chris Speaks: Looking at the 2009 NBA Playoff Picture

What’s up guys? Nice to be back here writing, it’s been a while since I wrote an entry and since the playoffs are already nearing, what a way timely way to return e?

Anyway, now that it’s only about 1 month away from the post season, I’m here to talk to about the possible playoff matchups, who’s gonna be in it, the possible upsets that might happen and the seeding after the post season.

Right now, here’s a look at the current positioning (March 16 2009)

East

1) Cleveland

2) Boston (3.5 GB)

3) Orlando (4 GB)

4) Atlanta (14.5 GB)

5) Miami (17.5 GB)

6) Philadelphia (19 GB)

7) Detroit (19.5 GB)

8) Milwaukee/Chicago (23.5 GB)

Outside looking in: Charlotte, New Jersey and New York (25 GB)

West

1) Los Angeles

2) San Antonio (8.5 GB)

3) Houston (11 GB)

4) Denver (11.5 GB)

5) New Orleans (11.5 GB)

6) Portland (12.0 GB)

7) Utah (12.5 GB)

8) Dallas (13.5 GB)

Outside looking in: Phoenix (17.5 GB)

The Analysis

In the East, it’s basically Cleveland, Boston, Orlando then everybody else. The top three is secured, with Cleveland having the top spot and Boston and Orlando fighting for number 2. With KG still out, I don’t think they’re gonna catch up with Crabs, we’ve seen how vulnerable Boston is without Kevin Garnett (They’re 6-6 after KG was injured) and with about 16 games left in the season, and a playoff spot secured, I don’t think the Celtics would want to rush KG’s recovery right now which leaves the Magic a clear chance to cut into number 2.

Regardless of who lands what in the top 3, I think the team that you would really want to avoid right now in the East, regardless of what position they’re in, is still the Boston Celtics. Number 6 (Philadelphia) and number 7 (Detroit) should in to where Orlando will land, in the past 3 seasons, the Pistons have Orlando’s number.. which would make my statement for them to look forward to Orlando more realistic.

As I’ve said before to my friends, if Cleveland lands the top spot, upsets will happen

You ask me why? Well, while I believe the Crabs are capable of beating the defending champions, IMO, they’re still vulnerable to losing to lower seeded teams. The Bulls (Who I think will beat the Bucks for number 8) has all the tools and the talent to match up with Cleveland that’s if Luol Deng gets healthy and Kirk Hinrich gets his head straight. If they somehow gets past the Bulls (Easier route would be Milwaukee) they’re in for a showdown between the winner of the Hawks/Heat series which is capable of beating anyone in a playoff series.. not named Boston.

Also, if the Cavs get a hold of that number 1 seed in the East, Orlando gets to seat on number 2 or 3, which will eventually set them up against the Pistons. Last time I checked, Dwight Howard and the Magic doesn’t like playing against the Pistons.

Another possible thing that might happen is that if the Celtics falls to number 3 and Orlando gets past the first round, we will be watching the Celtics team play a very good Magic team without homecourt advantage, and we all know how Boston values homecourt advantage (Just ask Cleveland and the Hawks from last year)

But then again, it all depends on the Crabs getting the top seed in the East. It might be a little odd for me to say this but, come on LeBron, make it happen.

On the Western side of things, it’s basically the Lakers and everybody. After the 8.5 game separation from LA (1) to San Antonio (2), it’s only a 5 game separation from San Antonio (2) to Dallas (8). Which makes the positioning here in the West a little bit more interesting.

Unlike in the East, the 8 teams that will be playing in the playoffs in the West are secure. And yes, I am informed that Phoenix is only 4 games outside the Playoffs, but I just don’t see them making the Playoffs this year.. and I don’t Steve Kerr having a job this summer too.

So what now? I think I know what the other teams are thinking, try to move up as much as possible and avoid Los Angeles in the first round.

Houston, Denver, Portland and New Orleans are all battling for the 2 remaining slots in the top 4. The Jazz, who were in there a couple of days ago are now down to number 7 after losing three straight, they are only 1 game ahead of Dallas and is in danger of having a first round affair against L.A.

Houston, surprisingly, are playing better without Knee-mac and should they get a first round playoff affair with Portland, with them having homecourt advantage, they could probably finally break out of the first round.. what’s funny is, they’ll be doing it without Tracy McGrady (Who still haven’t experienced playing deep into the playoffs)

Whoever takes on the Enver Nuggets at the Playoffs would be lucky. I think they’re easily the softest team in the West right now and Carmelo would still be dreaming of how it is to play outside the first round. They might not get swept (Not like last year) but I think whichever team lands a match up with them on the first round would be very very happy.

If the playoffs were to start today..

.. with that positioning, here would be my predictions

East

(1) Crabs over (8) Bulls in 7 games or (1) Cleveland over (8) Bucks in 4 games

(2) Celtics over (7) Pistons in 5 games

(3) Magic over (6) Sixers in 4 games

(4) Hawks over (5) Heat in 7 games

West

(1) Lakers over (8) Mavs in 5 games

(2) San Antonio over (7) Utah in 6 games

(3) Houston over (6) Portland in 6 games

(5) New Orleans over (4) Denver in 6 games

That’s it. I think I could be doing this weekly until the playoffs begin. ’til then. Adios

2009 FIESTA POWER RANKINGS (#1: FEB 28 – MAR 15)

POWER RANKINGS (FEB 28 – MAR 15)

Hail all HOOPSters! This is the first installment of my Power Rankings for the 2009 Fiesta Cup! In case you didn’t notice, Macmac Cardona was my preferred top player of the Philippine Cup.

Why?

In case you didn’t hear the boos… in case you didn’t see the finals of the Philippine Cup and in case you still don’t hear the boos he encounters EVERY freaking time he touches the ball in the 2009 FIESTA CUP, NO ONE was more instrumental, controversial, and sensational than what Cardona did for his franchise and for the league.

(As much as I want Willie Miller to own another MVP title, the Philippine Cup semis and finals proved to be a ratings grabber because of Captain Hook gave his all on and off the court.)

However, new conference… means new adventures. Unfortunately, Cardona is nowhere near MVP levels in this conference. Actually, the entry of imports has made a lot of players crap in the sidelines and basically bench warm.

NOW ON WITH THE SHOW!

The Rules: In this conference, there is one entry that would change my Power Rankings. Sure, you know that it is an addition of the five main stat categories (PTS + REBS + AST + STL + BLK). But the point system is based upon the PBFANTASY’S point system (see www.pbfantasy.com). Also we have to factor how these players play their minutes effectively.

And now…

The TURNOVERS play an important role.

GAME STARTS NOW!

THE FIRST PART: OUTSIDE LOOKING IN
THE BENEFITS: A no-explanation enumeration of the players that could have performed better to see a bunch of words across their names. (I won’t even bold their names)

40 PAUL ARTADI (GINEBRA)

39 MACMAC CARDONA (TNT)

38 BEAU BELGA (BURGER KING)

37 PAOLO HUBALDE (BARAKO BULL)

36 OLSEN RACELA (SMB)

35 JR QUINAHAN (BURGER KING)

34 RYAN ARANA (RAIN OR SHINE)

33 ROGER YAP (PUREFOODS)

32 JOSEPH YEO (STA. LUCIA)

31 GARY DAVID (BURGER KING)

30 DENOK MIRANDA (STA. LUCIA)

29 GABBY ESPINAS (BARAKO BULL)

28 JEFF CHAN (BARAKO BULL)

27 ROB WAINWRIGHT (RAIN OR SHINE)

26 JASON CASTRO (TNT)

THE SECOND PART: PACKED IN THE MIDDLE
THE BENEFITS: Measly statements telling people why they ended up in this predicament.

25 RONJAY BUENAFE (COCA-COLA): After a weak Philippine Cup, Buenafe is off to a hot start. His 16.8ppg ranks first in the Tigers’ local scoring department.

24 DORIAN PENA (SMB): The guy barely makes 20 minutes a night but the Big Dawg could still own the league’s bigs with his 12.5ppg and 7.5rpg per night.

23 JAY WASHINGTON (SMB): This spot should be vacated next week when J-Wash continues to trade his uniform for flip-flops because of an injury.

22 WESLEY GONZALES (SMB): SMB’s injury-plagued lineup has its own pros and cons. For Wesley, playing more and getting 10.8ppg and 7.5rpg is a bar none upside.

21 JOE DEVANCE (ALASKA): While he doesn’t enjoy the slashed minutes he has right now, the biggest consolation he has is the fact that he is seriously getting the goods.

20 WILLIE MILLER (ALASKA): After a crappy import, the Thriller should be pleased now that Rosell Ellis is taking away the double teams thrown at him. This should improve his stats in a big way.

19 ENRICO VILLANUEVA (PUREFOODS): In their last few games, he has been delivering the goods missed by their “other” offensive providers.

18 JAY-R REYES (RAIN OR SHINE): As the Painters’ chief muscle inside the “paint”, the ex-UP Maroon is getting mauled day in and day out… but his 13.7ppg and 8.3rpg is saying otherwise.

17 LA TENORIO (ALASKA): Yes, the coming of age of LA Tenorio’s game has begun. Add the fact that he is the only point guard in the team that Tim Cone trusts, those heavy minutes should produce more big time stats.

16 DONDON HONTIVEROS (SMB): I guess Hontiveros is saving his best for the playoffs. Still, his numbers are nowhere near “patsy” levels. His all around game and leadership is keeping the injury-plagued Beermen afloat.

15 DON ALLADO (PUREFOODS): For those who taught Don Allado’s game will sink once he joins the big man-infected Giant squad… you’re kinda right. Brian Hamilton’s streak of off-nights is making Allado stints possible (yes B-Ham had one good game… one… good… game) but once Purefoods skids out of the standings, Allado is an explosive scoring import away from bench-warming hell (someone will definitely join Rich Alvarez and Richard Yee).

14 JAMES YAP (PUREFOODS): In his first game, Big Game torched the hoop for 33 points. And then B-Ham’s inability to become an offensive threat crushed Yap’s vulnerability. Although he rebounded from that third game… his 3 points wasn’t a pretty sight for all the people that picked him up in their rosters.

13 WYNNE ARBOLEDA (BURGER KING): Okay… I see eyebrows rising. Hear me out. Arboleda is averaging 7.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 5.5apg, and 1spg. Yes, I know that’s nothing special. But fathom the fact that he only averages 20.5 minutes per night? Wonder if Yeng Guiao would use him more often? I guess that could happen now since he has regained the reality that he is the boss’ son-in-law.

12 SUNDAY SALVACION (GINEBRA): Jump in glee Ginebra fans! Uhurm. Okay, just like Wesley Gonzales, Salvacion’s name came into picture when Mark Caguioa, Junthy Valenzuela, and the rest of the BGK crew are suffering from injuries. While I would have wanted for the Kings to get Allado from that 3-way deal, Salvacion is getting the spoils from all of the Rod Nealy and Jayjay Helterbrand double-teaming.

11 TONY dela CRUZ (ALASKA): This season has been a great confidence builder for the ex-Turbo Charger. Since his entry from Shell, Alaska has been nothing but mean to the once double-double churning forward. Now comfortable in the system, TDC is getting major minutes from Cone.

THE LAST PART: THE TOP TEN

10 KERBY RAYMUNDO (PUREFOODS): I wonder how long it took for Kerby to snatch Jondan Salvador’s number? With all the big men in their lineup, I am seriously thinking that this is Salvador’s last PBA stint as a Giant. Anywho, sure Raymundo’s numbers are great and he should be a few notches higher. HOWEVER he leads all locals in turnovers with 5 per game. Sure, Tiras Wade and Rod Nealy own more, but they usually touch the ball every time their team draws possession. For a guy like Raymundo to average more TO’s than James Yap… this needs to change.

9 MARLOU AQUINO (STA. LUCIA): I have a friend named Chrisangelo who could be tuning in at every freaking SLR game because he couldn’t believe that this lanky underachieving, waste of salary cap space, giant is turning out to be an awesome shock this conference. Sure, Dennis Espino would probably displace him any moment now but his league-leading 3.3bpg is certainly a welcome surprise.

8 JAYJAY HELTERBRAND (GINEBRA): Helter has yet to wield his offensive awesomeness in the opening stages of the Fiesta Cup. You could say that with Rod Nealy getting clamps from all sides of the court, now is the time for Jayjay to explode. Until that day comes, you’ll pretty much see the Kings struggling past the .500 mark. However, the return of his assist league-leading ways is a good sign for the “other” Bandanna Brother. Sheesh… if only Mark Caguioa is playing right now…

7 JONAS VILLANUEVA (SMB): Just when you think the first Fiesta Cup Player of the Week’s 15 minutes are up… he finds ways to make you think otherwise. Performing like a dog in heat is nothing new for Jonas… in his UAAP days. Even then we falls behind to guys like Tenorio, Tang, and others in terms of popularity. Here in the PBA, he stuck around a team filled with stars for an opportunity to shine. With 15.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 4.5apg and 1spg in almost 30 minutes a game… now is the moment he has been yearning upon.

6 JIMMY ALAPAG (TNT): Unlike his teammates, the Mighty Mouse remains unfazed of the dangerous “championship syndrome”. This attacks teams that just won the championship, making them do their usual games a couple of steps below their normal levels. Perhaps this was the reason why TNT is in the deep end of the standings. However Alapag is doing his best to keep his team at bay with him registering great numbers. Until Cardona, Ranidel de Ocampo, Ali Peek, Harvey Carey, and Jared Dillinger edges out their respective slumps, Alapag is tasked to carry an unenviable chore to creep up wins for their squad.

5 ASI TAULAVA (COCA-COLA): Until this day, the Tigers seems to lack the respect that was handed out to the other teams even if they have this big-time mammoth in their arsenal. Why? The coaching chaos and a ragtag collection of unwanted veterans and introverted youngsters are the factors keeping this team from ever regaining their once-populous fanbase. So the only solution here is to win games, which Asi is trying hard to attain day in and day out. His 12.5rpg leads all locals in terms of rebounds.

4 GABE NORWOOD (RAIN OR SHINE): Punishing his opponents with his all-around play, Norwood’s ability to play all positions makes him extremely valuable for the Painters’ first crack for a plum. Unlike his partner Solomon Mercado, the fire in his game has yet to go off to unruly proportions (although how could we forget the quarterfinal match up they had against the Realtors where their errant behavior cost the team a chance for the title). In 3 games so far, his 14.3ppg, 9.3rpg, 3.3apg, and 1.7spg makes him a very prized entity for Rain or Shine.

3 ALEX CABAGNOT (COCA-COLA): Here’s another shocker that should make people jump at their seats. But then again, maybe you know what I’m talking about. Just like Tenorio, Cabagnot is a point guard that gets a lot of playing time in his roster. However, Kenneth Duremdes seems to overact in this department by giving him 40 minutes per game. Sure, Duremdes has a lot of point guards that could share his minutes (Kelani Ferreria was recently added to their lineup), but check out his stats: he gives out 16.3ppg, 4.8rpg, 6.0apg, and 1.8spg. But what’s great about him is that he rarely commits any turnovers… something that makes him superbly important to their cause.

2 KELLY WILLIAMS (STA. LUCIA): Machine Gun Kelly’s numbers dipped after a weak showing at the hands of the Kings, limiting his numbers to a dud 3 points and 7-rebound effort. However, his mere presence brings fear to SLR’s enemies, making him the uncrowned second import of the franchise. And just like a snap of a finger, he quickly overcame a crappy game to produce a 21-point, 13-rebound explosion against the Boosters. If he could just contain his bad games to a respectable output then Williams should be a great catch for all PBFANATICS out there.

1 ARWIND SANTOS (BURGER KING): Ranking numero in the rankings is… the SPIDERMAN! For some insane reason, playing in Yeng Guiao’s tutelage is making Santos to go out and play more. With Guiao’s dreaded play hard or think hard… in the far side of the bench (recently received by Shawn Daniels), Santos is claiming boards, blocking shots, and dumping deuces in superb fashion! Currently Santos is leading the Titans in points with 19.3ppg, ranks second behind Daniels in rebounds (9.0rpg), has 1.5apg, 0.8spg, and owns 1.5bpg. The sad thing though is that they are currently in the middle of the pack after an erratic start. Knowing Guiao’s habit to shake up his personnel after they fail to bring in the W’s, Santos’ rank-leading ways are in serious jeopardy.

The Power Rankings should return in about two weeks. Why? Ummm… I think work will bum me out before I get my usual write-ups to even get a title!

Yes, that is the biggest reason why I am barely visible in the webpage. Yes it sucks… but I think I have to earn money to have money to spend on.

Yeah… basically that’s it.

So… until my next installment…

Mikee Romero is Out Of Burger King

The good…

• Jerry Codinera and Vergel Meneses might join the Burger King coaching staff. That’s welcome addition to the flagging PBA star power.
• It’s possible that Mikee Romero will bring his own team to the PBA in the future.
• We have not seen the last of Nadurata. Welcome back sir!

And the bad…

• Since Burger King lost a majority player in Romero, who’ll take his ownership? My guess is, it will be MVP. That will make MVP a majority holder of Burger King. He’ll own virtually teams directly. Get ready for more outrageous swaps.
• The PBA lost a passionate basketball team owner in Mikee Romero.
• This uncertainty could somehow affect players’ play. Judging by Yeng’s statement, he’s clueless as to what is happening inside the management level. For sure, his players too. Trouble up in the management could result to Arwind Santos jacking up more brick three-point shot, Arboleda shooting more open, err, often, than required, etc.

The final words from Mikee…

“Unfortunately the dreams and the winning must come to an end as my group and the Burger King company did not come to terms.

“Much of my attention will now be devoted to the amateurs again, along with my other passion which is the Filipino martial arts.

“In ending I assure everyone that one of these days, I would again rejoin the PBA and fight again the battles which I truly enjoy. More power to the PBA.”

From my Sis, Beth Celis.

The Solar Crunch

Did you read the news yesterday? Only on it’s 2nd conference of PBA coverage, Solar Sports is requesting for a 25% off on royalty fee from PBA.

Asking for a cut after one conference is one thing, but the thing that doesn’t sit well with the PBA is that, while asking for 25% royalty payment discount, Solar Sports is reportedly bidding for the UAAP coverage.

(BTW, Solar’s gigantic contract with the PBA is P480 million over three years. Beating out ABS-CBN’s P350 million. Solar’s requested discount is 25%. So, 25% x P480 million is P360 million. Roughly equal to ABS-CBN’s bid. So, looks like ABS’ number are dead-on accurate.)

Read more

Barako Bull - Coke Photos (Second Half)

First part here.

Mica Abesamis Takes Over

In the ongoing national debate of who’s hotter Lia Cruz or Mica Abesamis, I’ve been favoring Lia Cruz mainly because she looks more fresh, looks genuinely kind and accommodating and a better reporter than Mica.

But the keyword is hotter. Not cuter. Not better. Not kind. Not accommodating. Not fresher.

Last night, Mica Abesamis did the first game and I was able to zoom in on her and walah, she’s definitely hot.

Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.

The only knack I have with MIca is, as I watched her last night, she’s constantly memorizing and rehearsing her reports, which means lesser times in actually watching the game. Then again, she’ll report for about only 3 times a game, who cares if she’s paying attention to the game. As long as she’s hot, forget the game.

Paging Ms. Cesca Litton, the challenge is on. Could you topple Mica?

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