Regarding the tragic event that just occurred

September 28, 2009 by Chrisangelo · Leave a Comment 

In basketball games, teamwork and great leadership most of the time will prevail over a very tough opponent. No matter how good the opponent may be or how tough the challenges they’ll present you, your team will always come out on top if you learn to trust one another. In most parts in this tragic event that hit us, I guess it’s also safe to say that what we have when all’s all is gone, much like basketball, is one another.

I am very happy to see people in the news, whom despite having some rough times on their own, managed to help their neighbors, especially the old ones who’s struggling for survival. I’m happy to see people interacting, people who’ve sent their own donations whether it may be in the form of cash, food, clothes, medicine or other necessities. My hat is off to everyone who even in the tiniest things have shown sincerity in helping out our fellow Filipinos in this tragic event that just occurred.

With that being said, my heart goes out to all the people who’ve lost their love ones, who lost their houses, who lost everything. I have a friend here who just had his house flooded up to the second floor and my God, I’ve never seen a place so devastated before. While I was helping them fix their house yesterday, I can’t help but think about how lucky we were who wasn’t affected by the storm one single bit. I then made a vow to myself to give out and help, even in the littlest things possible.

And you, if you’re reading this, that means you still have the means to help. I encourage you to help out. Think for one second of how lucky you are and then decide if you want to do help or not. Lots of people are still in need. Lots of organizations are still looking for volunteers and donation. That’s why here I am, encouraging you, that if you aren’t that affected by the Typhoon, to help out.

Here are the hotlines of Government, NGOs and other business groups where you can find the information on how to interact and help out. (From Inquirer)

Rescue Operations

National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) (+632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9115061, +632-9122665) Help hotlines: (+65 734-2118, 734-2120) ndcchelpdesk@gmail.com
Philippine Coast Guard (+632-5276136)
Air Force (+63908-1126976, +632-8535023)
Metro Manila Development Authority (136)
Marikina City Rescue (+632-6462436, +632-6462423, +632920-9072902) Pasig Rescue Emergency Number (+632-6310099)
Quezon City Rescue (161)
San Juan City Hall Command Post (+632-4681697)
Bureau of Fire Protection Region III (Central Luzon) Hotline: (+63245-9634376)
Senator Dick Gordon (+639178997898, +63938-444BOYS, +632-9342118, +632-4338528)
Senator Manny Villar (+639174226800. +639172414864, +639276751981)
Philippine National Red Cross (143, +632-5270000)
Philippine National Red Cross Rizal Chapter operations center hotline: (+632-6350922, +632-6347824)

Rubber boat and chopper requests

NCRPO (+632-8383203, +632-8383354)
Private citizens who would like to lend their motor boats for rescue please call emergency nos: +632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9122665, +632-9115061)
You can also text (+632917-4226800 or +632927-6751981) for rescue dump trucks.
For those who are able to lend 4×4 trucks for rescue: Please send truck to Greenhills Shopping Center Unimart Grocery to await deployment, Tel No. (+632920-9072902).
Petron & San Miguel Corporation are lending choppers for rescue operations, call/text: (+632917-8140655) ask for Lydia Ragasa

Power supply concerns

Meralco (+63917-5592824, 16211, +63920-9292824) If you want service cut off to your area to prevent fires and electrocution.

Donations of heavy duty flashlights needed for rescue operations in Cainta, Rizal area. Contact Cielo at (+632918-8824356)

E-Donations

SMS: text RED to 2899 (Globe) and 4483 (Smart)
G-Cash: text DONATEAMOUNT4-digit M-PINREDCROSS to 2882
TXTPOWER.org: Paypal, Smart Money (5577-5144-1866-7103), G-Cash (0917-9751092)

Cellphone services

FINDERSERVICE. For Smart, text wis to 386.
FINDERSERVICE. For Globe, text find to 7000.

Maps

A group composed of Serge Gregorio and Franklin Naval has put up an interactive rescue map (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&

Again me and the rest of Hoops.blink.ph crew wish you guys the best.

Filed Under: Events, News, PBA Basketball, Site Updates
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HooPh Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-09-27

September 27, 2009 by .:. · Leave a Comment 

Filed Under: HooPh News
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UAAP Season 72 Finals Preview

September 25, 2009 by the-ocho · Leave a Comment 

And we’re down to two.  Defending champions Ateneo Blue Eagles and UE Red Warriors emerged victors from the madness that is the Final Four and will be battling for the right to become this year’s champs.  For Ateneo, it will be their chance to repeat since 1987 – 1989, when Alex Araneta, Eric Reyes, Danny Francisco, and Jun Reyes brought glory to Katipunan.  For UE, winning will break a 23 year title drought, which was last handed to them through the exploits of Allan Caidic and Jerry Codinera.

 

For the Blue Eagles, it has a season of dominance.  Mirroring last year’s run, they’ve only lost 1 game, a 80 – 75 upset by the UP Fighting Maroons.  Since the loss they have won 11 straight.  While at most times Rabeh Al-Husseini (16.5 ppg 7.1 rpg) is still a dominant center, they have also found solid play from others like SG Eric Salamat (11.9 ppg 3.6 apg 2.1 spg), PG Jai Reyes (8.0 ppg), and PF Nico Salva (7.5 ppg 3.6 rpg).  But what has defined them this season is their defense, which is the best in the league.  Nonoy Baclao (5.8 ppg 8.0 rpg 2.5 bpg) and Kirk Long (5.5 ppg 3.6 rpg) may have lower numbers than expected but it is their defense, along with Salamat, has been anchoring their dominant run.  Eman Monfort (5.6 ppg) has been a surprise this season with his steady backup quarterbacking and booming 3 point shots.  Ryan Buenafe (6.6 ppg) may have lower than expected numbers but has delivered in the latter part of the eliminations and may be going out of his sophomore slump.  They showed no mercy to the UST Growling Tigers, giving warning to UE that they are primed and ready. 

For the Red Warriors, it has been a season of surprise.  While they have a competitive lineup, they were not rated among the favorites this season.  Having a rookie coach in Lawrence Chiongson and losing a star player in Marcy Arellano will do that to you.  They started the season losing big to Ateneo, 72 – 57 and they certainly do not want to end it the same way.  But a lot has changed since opening day.  Paul Lee (14.6 ppg 5.8 rpg 4.9 apg) mirrored the team by starting out slow but eventually found his niche as a facilitator in offense (as an OG at that), leading the league in assists and the team in scoring.  Elmer Espiritu (13.6 ppg 8.1 rpg 2.8 bpg) has been arguably the most exciting player in the UAAP because of his high leaping dunks and spectacular blocks. Pari Llagas (13.4 ppg 8.4 rpg) is the revelation of the season, blooming into a reliable and often times deadly center.  Val Acuna (10.4 ppg) came out of nowhere to become the main threat from the outside. And David Zamar (6.1 ppg) has steadily improved from last year’s promising debut.           UE had to win 2 games against the higher seeded FEU Tammaraws.  But honestly, the way FEU was playing in the 2nd round and with the unfortunate Mark Barroca issue, they never had a chance.

 

The leagues most dominant team versus a team with its confidence at an all time high.  A team with an 11 game winning streak versus a team with a 7 game winning streak.  Blue versus Red.  Something’s gonna give.

 

OFFENSE – Ateneo relies on Al-Husseni to jump start their offense.  Most of the time they dump the ball down low and see what the defense gives them.  Then he either does his thing or move the ball around until they find the open man. Occasionally they do a high-low play with Baclao feeding the post or taking the perimeter shot.  Other times its Eric Salamat or Ryan Buenafe from the top of the key, penetrating and breaking down the offense.   The beauty with the Ateneo system is that Al-Husseini can have an off night, and they can still win handily.  They always seem to have surprise contributors, whether it’s Salva, Monfort, or Long.   

UE on the other hand relies on a free flowing, albeit undisciplined offense.  It all starts with Lee.  Fantastic ball handling leads to breakdowns in offense, usually for scores or assists to the open man.  A trademark play is the alleyoop to Espiritu for the jam. Llagas has his moments down low and has shown above average low post moves. And Acuna, Zamar and PG Ronnie Lingganay (7.0 ppg 5.3 rpg) can get hot from outside.   They may not be as deep as Ateneo but 3 or 4 of them having good games can be enough.

Team numbers are almost the same: 78.3 points for Ateneo and 78.7 points for UE.   

Advantage: Even

  

DEFENSE – Ateneo is the best defensive team in the league.  They are better now than last year’s team.  Coach Norman Black has instilled this to his boys and has produced.  Baclao brings the blocks, Salamat brings the steals, and Long brings the man-to-man defense that will be tested against Lee.  One game they held NU to 10 points, in the first half.  ‘Nuff said.

 UE focuses more on offense but can deliver the stops when necessary.  Espiritu can spike the ball all the way to the Lower Box area and they can play physical when needed.  Still, Ateneo is far superior on this aspect.

The Blue Eagles lead the league in most defensive categories and has the solid system in place. 

Advantage: Ateneo

 

BENCH: The starting lineup of Al-Husseni, Salamat, Long, Baclao, and Reyes averages 47.7 ppg and the bench is not far behind at 30.6 ppg.  In stark contrast UE’s starters of Lee, Llagas, Espiritu, Acuna, and Lingganay averages a combined 59 ppg which is almost 75% of the team’s offense.  Contain the starters, and you contain the team.  Also Ateneo can go 10 – 11 deep while still sustaining their offense and defense.  UE doesn’t have that luxury. 

Advantage: Ateneo

 

COACHING: Norman Black has the profile, experience, and trophies to show for it.  He had a somewhat slow start with his collegiate coaching career but now has led the blue Eagles to its 2 most dominating seasons and on the verge of a repeat.  He instills discipline, defense, and a solid system.  Lawrence Chongson is a rookie coach, taking over from Dindo Pumaren, and 2 years after their undefeated run in the eliminations, they are back in the finals.  He does not have a system and relies on a free flowing offense.  This is an unconventional formula and while it has produced wins, remains to be seen if it will produce the end goal of a championship.

At the end experience tends to win out over style.  Black simply has the results to show for it.  Numerous PBA championships with 2 teams, including a grand slam, and Ateneo never being out of the Final Four ever since he took over.  Hard to ignore that. 

Advantage: Ateneo

 

PREDICTION:  It will be Ateneo’s defense and depth versus UE’s freewheeling offense.  Should Ateneo win it all, it will be either via a sweep or 3 games.  Should UE win it, it will be in 3.  UE’s momentum and morale is at a high right now and they could easily win a game against the Blue Eagles.  But a game is what they can only get.  They may have been beaten before as favorites by UST but the Blue Eagles have learned from that.   I said before it’s the Blue Eagles to loose and they are primed to repeat.  This will be the Blue Eagles’ year….again.

 

 

Fastbreaks:  Over at the NCAA, San Sebastian finally loses to Letran, this after setting the NCAA record at 15 straight games won.  They are not a sure bet to get no.1 because right at their heels are JRU and defending champion San Beda, both at 13 – 2.  And guess what, Baste gets to play those 2 next.  At least they don’t have the same pressure as UE had after they swept the elims.  Remember them?  LaSalle quickly snuffed out the momentum and snatched the crown in 2 games……Japeth Aguilar will most likely be banned from playing with Smart Gilas as a guest team. More problems for the kid.  If this happens, I don’t expect Gilas to participate.  After all, what’s the use of training and preparing if your best Pinoy center is not with the team?……Ron Artest says that if the Lakers don’t repeat, blame him.  Lakers look primed to repeat but not without challenge from the Magic, Celts, Cavs, and Spurs.  Speaking of the Lakers, Lamar is going Hollywood by marrying Chloe Kardashian.  See Lamar?  Aren’t you happy you resigned with LA? “THANK YOU GOD!  LOVE, LAMAR”.

Filed Under: Philippine Basketball, UAAP
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Slice needs to Dice

September 24, 2009 by SYDMAN · Leave a Comment 

The Tenth Season of The Ultimate Fighter takes a “slice” from the dark side.

In Episode 1, UFC Prez Dana White shocked everyone by introducing Kevin Ferguson, otherwise known as “Kimbo Slice”, as a contestant.

The 35-year-old former EliteXC champ will be one of the heavyweights featured in this installment. This somewhat took out the rivalry of this season’s coaches which were Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and “Sugar” Rashad Evans. Slice was picked second pick overall by Jackson after Evans selected James McSweeney as his top pick.

Slice is a great brawler. He’s like Yogi Bear… and you stole his picnic basket…

… and Booboo.

But the main problem for 6-foot-2, 235-pounder resident from Miami, Florida is he is only a striking and he doesn’t have much of a ground game. Exciting fights could catapult awesome matches but those boring matches could be his death. Actually it will become exciting when his opponent gets him into a submission position that would likely spell the end of this former underground fighter.

Let’s just remember that no one expected Brock Lesnar to become the MMA star that he is since he is a “sports entertainment” guy. Plus, he did defeat someone via submission… but that was an exhibition match that involves former WBO boxing champ Ray Mercer.

Slice got bad rep after the internet star was destroyed fourteen seconds after the start of the match when Seth Petruzelli creamed him in one lucky blow. This match also destroyed EliteXC whose only claim to fame is having the muscle-clad and erstwhile invincible Slice in their organization.

Dana White offered a contract to Slice but he needs to earn this deal through The Ultimate Fighter. White even stated that he will make a TUF strictly for heavyweights so that Kimbo could showcase his wares.

That idea is currently a reality.

Postscript: Kimbo Slice debuts in the TUF octagon (Episode 3) against Roy Nelson. Slice’s team coached by Rampage Jackson has lost two straight duels. A win for Slice could give him more chance to secure the UFC contract.

An early loss will shatter a possible career in the UFC.

Filed Under: MMA, Other Sports
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100 Best Careers in the NBA (3 of 5)

September 24, 2009 by SYDMAN · 4 Comments 

First seen at www.hoops.blink.ph.

Damn it, I must say, compiling this is hard work! You have weigh what’s good for the haters, what will make people happy, will there be any backlash, etcetera… etcetera.

Anyway, before anyone forgets, this is a BEST CAREERS IN THE NBA ranking!

Get the rules and the first installment of the rank here:
http://sydrified.blogspot.com/2009/08/100-best-careers-in-nba-part-1-of-5.html

And if you want the previous installment, check it out here:
http://sydrified.blogspot.com/2009/09/100-best-careers-in-nba-2-of-5.html

So before you ask why Grant Hill is higher than Steve Nash… or Dwyane Wade is ranked high despite still having an active career… or who the hell are Hal Greer, Neil Johnston, Bill Sharman, Tommy Heinsohn and Sam Jones… you need to check these installments out!

Who had the best careers from start to finish? Check this out!

Now in terms of why defensive players rank high in the list? I am always bent to say that these guys are a notable few. Everyone when tasked can score 20 points a night but if they only get 2 rebounds and 2 assists, I’ll pass them up as one-dimensional players. The players likely in the top ten like Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, David Robinson, and Shaquille O Neal are excellent scoring threats but even more powerful defenders (I gave you a bunch of names that may or may not land in the top ten… ha!).

In order to see the positive and negative aspects of the name’s entry, the HITS and MISSES enumeration was in placed to hopefully quench those who ask for reasons.

Anyway, GAME STARTS NOW!

60 BILL WALTON (Portland Trail Blazers, San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics)
STATS: 468g – 13.3ppg, 10.5rpg, 3.4apg, 2.2bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: MVP (1), Finals MVP (1), All-NBA Team (2), NBA All-Star (2), NBA Champion (2), Hall of Famer
HITS: He is one of the league’s most charismatic players in the 70’s. He looks like a hippie, he dresses as if he’ll be going to a disco, and his white afro is one of the most recognizable do’s in that era if you’re a NBA fan. He came from a very powerful college where under John Wooden, Walton piloted UCLA to back-to-back-to-back championships which led to him being called as the greatest college player ever (he won NCAA College Player of the Year thrice in his four years, with Christian Laettner rivaling the feat in the 90’s). In the NBA, he was out to win, claiming two wins in the course of his career with Portland and Boston. He was a gifted rebounder, an able defender, and a powerful blocker.
MISSES: Hmmm… Walton while great had one of the most unfortunate careers in the NBA. He was often injured and he barely played a season where performed in at least 75 games (although he did play in 80 of Boston’s 82 games in 1985). After winning the championship, Walton battled with the Blazers office for having crappy amenities for their injured stars when he got injured and did not play in the 1978-79 NBA Season. San Diego was a poor pit stop for the curly one and while getting temporary career resurrection in Boston, he was not the focal point of the offense. This is one of the factors why his stats are this low. Think of him as Alonzo Mourning-like… minus the offensive production.
EXTRA POINTS: You’ll often hear his voice as the hyperbole-heavy broadcaster during NBA games. Did you know he was once known for his stuttering?

59 BILLY CUNNINGHAM (Philadelphia 76ers)
STATS: 654g – 20.8ppg, 10.1rpg, 4.0apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (4), NBA All-Star (4), NBA Champion (1), Hall of Famer
HITS: Dubbed as the Kangaroo Kid for his unbelievable leaping ability, he could scour rebounds despite playing the shooting guard/ small forward role. He is tied with Michael Jordan for having the most points scored in a losing playoff game with 50 (Jordan holds the record when the Bulls played Boston and he erupted for 63). He assumed top dog rule when Chamberlain left, leading the Sixers in points and in rebounds in a very consistent basis.
MISSES: Like John Havlicek, he started his NBA career off the bench. Then Sixers coach Dolph Schayes thought of the idea of Cunningham playing point. The Kangaroo Kid was uncomfortable with the spot as this restricted his athleticism and gave him the starting SG/SF spot. This would translate to him helping the Sixers win the 1967 championship. Also Cunningham had a somewhat brief career in the NBA. This all started when contract disputes forced team leader Wilt Chamberlain to head to the Lakers. While playing his whole NBA career with Philly, Cunningham bolted to the Carolina Cougars of the ABA in 1972 where he won a MVP. Two years later he returned to the Sixers to resume his career but injuries sidelined him. He missed 52 games in with a clogged liver in Carolina and when he returned he was forced to retire for having a torn ACL (back then it was not treatable). Also when he did return to the Sixers, Philly went from contenders to rebuilders (This was a couple of years before Julius Erving signed with the Sixers).
EXTRA POINTS: After leading the Sixers to the crown as a player in 1967, he led the Sixers anew in 1983 – guiding the team to a 65-17 finish and a championship.

58 DIKEMBE MUTOMBO (Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, Houston Rockets)
STATS: 1198g – 9.8ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.0apg, 2.7bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (3), NBA All-Star (8), Defensive Player of the Year (4)
HITS: He has one of the world’s most recognizable smiles and has one of basketball’s most popular trademarks. Why is he high on this list? He owns four Defensive Player of the Year titles! No shot is safe if he’s lurking below the basket. Expect him to wag the finger if you didn’t see his seven foot exterior manning the lanes! Whether its help defense or face-to-face coverage, Mount Mutombo Is poised to put a lid on the rim! This is why guys like Jordan, Malone, Kobe, Barkley, and Shaq all love to give this guy a facial. First of all, this is for their poster… another thing? Most of the time, this is merely for revenge.
MISSES: The Terror from Zaire is an overlord in defense. However, he lacks the moves to conquer defense. This is the reason why team owners can’t put faith on Mutombo to build people around him. Mostly in his later years, he was acquired for the main purpose of trying to limit Shaq. This also cemented his journeyman status. While he was one of the rare players that played in the league despite being over 40, his numbers dwindled dramatically during these stints.

57 ALONZO MOURNING (Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, New Jersey Nets)
STATS: 838g – 17.1ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.1apg, 2.8bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (2), NBA All-Star (7), All-Star MVP (1), Defensive Player of the Year (2), NBA Champion (1)
HITS: He was the second overall pick in the 1993 Draft after Shaquille O’Neal. While he averaged 20 points and 9 rebounds as a rookie, he always gets overshadowed by Shaq. In Charlotte while there was in fighting between Zo and Larry Johnson, they managed to make the Hornets a East darkhorse. He then traded to Miami for sharpshooter Glen Rice where he joined another superstar, Tim Hardaway. In the late 90’s he’ll renew his rivalry with Larry Johnson but this time through the super rivalry called Miami versus New York. He is an awesome defender that also has offensive arsenal. At one point he was called the best center in the East.
MISSES: Zo’s kidney burst all chances for him to have a superstar end in his career. At one point, he almost finished his career early. When he returned from the injury, he was reduced to a second stringer, often spelling rest for Shaq. Except for his blocks, this stint decreased his career scoring and rebounding averages.

56 HAL GREER (Syracuse Nationals/ Philadelphia 76ers)
STATS: 1122g – 19.2ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.0apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (7), NBA All-Star (10), All-Star MVP (1), NBA Champion (1), Hall of Famer
HITS: Before the Sixers played in Philly, Philly’s team was called Warriors. When the Syracuse Nationals left for Philly, the Warriors moved in the Bay Area. Hal Greer was one of the Nats that went to the Sixers during the relocation. He was once called as the third best guard in the 60’s behind Oscar Robertson and Jerry West. When Warrior Wilt Chamberlain returned to Philly as a Sixer, Wilt became the focal point of Greer’s passes. Greer is a scorer and passer and with Wilt coming in, he had found the missing ingredients for a championship. In 1967, the Sixers ousted Boston and went on to win the finals.
MISSES: It’s a given that Greer wouldn’t have won that title if Chamberlain wasn’t his teammate. When “The Stilt” left, the Sixers dropped downwards. His last season in the league was a disaster. He retired in 1973 and in that season the Sixers just won nine games. Media called the team “Philadelphia nine and 73ers”.
EXTRA POINTS: Greer had one of the most effective but most awkward free throw shots in NBA history. He sinks a free throw via a jump shot.

55 TOMMY HEINSOHN (Boston Celtics)
STATS: 654g – 18.6ppg, 8.8rpg, 2.0apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (4), NBA All-Star (6), Rookie of the Year (1957), NBA Champion (8), Hall of Famer
HITS: Aside from Red Auerbach, Bill Russell, Bob Cousy and John Havlicek, Heinsohn ranks as one of the most beloved Boston players of all-time. He is the only player who has the distinction of being involved one way or the other in each of the Celtics’ championships (as player, coach and commentator). As a player, he won eight NBA titles in nine years. He played forward-center for Boston. He is a burly rough-houser on defensive but prefers finesse during offense. He also loves to instill work ethic and hustle to players. This motivation laid the foundation of his two NBA crowns during his coaching tenure in the 70’s.
MISSES: At 6’7 he gets rebounds because opponents set their sights on Bill Russell. Often he merely blends in the spotlight whenever Cousy, Russell, Bill Sherman, or Sam Jones gets hot. Other than that, I see Tommy Gun as a great cog for Boston’s winning run. If I could think of another flaw in his game, I’ll probably say that given that the games then were black and white… his legs were TOO white.
EXTRA POINTS: Heinsohn played college ball at Holy Cross University. This was the same school where Bob Cousy played. The day Bob Cousy retired, Tommy Heinsohn scored his 10,000th point.

54 STEVE NASH (Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns)
STATS: 934g – 14.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 8.0apg, 0.8spg
ACHIEVEMENTS: MVP (2), All-NBA Team (6), NBA All-Star (6)
HITS: He is not a scoring monster but he is great playmaker, ball-handler, and three-point shooter. His passes are spell-binding. His free-wheeling game is pretty much similar to how a football game is being played. He is only one of eight players to win back-to-back MVP’s. He is a highly-intelligent player that loves to make his teammates look good. A perfect example of this is how Shawn Marion’s numbers dipped when he was traded away from Phoenix. His mastery of knowing his teammates’ strengths is awesome.
MISSES: His first stint with Phoenix was a dud, as he played barely 11 minutes and could only produce 3.3ppg. His first four years in the league he averaged under ten points. This is basically one of the reasons why this two-time MVP is ranked too low. But perspective-wise, it’s hard to imagine a two-time MVP that hasn’t had any Finals appearance. While he deserved his first MVP, critics pan at his second. In what could have been his third MVP, Nash played awesome. Unfortunately, the fact that he is not a champion doomed his chances. Despite a stellar 2006-07 NBA season, Dirk Nowitzki won the honor.

53 GRANT HILL (Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns)
STATS: 787g – 18.5ppg, 6.6rpg, 4.7apg, 1.4spg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (5), NBA All-Star (7), Rookie of the Year (1995)
HITS: Grant Hill drinks Sprite? Grant Hill… drinks… Sprite. He was the first of many “Jordanesque” players that the league has ever seen. He starred in Duke where he helped the team play in 3 of the 4 NCAA Finals he was affiliated with the team. He was picked third in the 1994 Draft by the Pistons to re-start Detroit’s championship run. While people thought of him as the next Mike, Hill played a lot like Scottie Pippen – he takes his normal share of points but he also gets boards and passes. In fact, he was a triple-double magnet early in his career. Detroit became a great team when he was there but he had to opt out when the supporting players in the roster got weaker. He signed with Orlando who just acquired Tracy McGrady. He will leave the Magic before the 2007 season for Phoenix.
MISSES: Injuries. Lots and lots of injuries caused Hill to miss most of his career, particularly his Orlando stint. He shouldn’t have left for Orlando. Not only did his career stagnate, Detroit would acquire Ben Wallace and Chucky Atkins. Ben Wallace was an important player in their championship while they used Atkins as a tool to acquire another vital cog in Rasheed Wallace. Hill was a very sick man and him playing for the Magic seemed like a poor fit. Even if he played without any DNP’s in Phoenix last year, re-signing for the Suns will threaten his career to not have any championships (given the state of the Lakers, Celtics, and the rest of the league.

52 WES UNSELD (Washington Bullets)
STATS: 984g – 10.8ppg, 14.0rpg, 3.9apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: MVP (1), Finals MVP (1), All-NBA Team (1), NBA All-Star (5), Rookie of the Year (1969), NBA Champion (1), Hall of Famer
HITS: He was the second player in the NBA to win Rookie of the Year and MVP honors in the same year. Known for his amazing knack to conquer rebounds, Unseld made up for his lack of size by conquering the court with his brute strength and strong determination. The guy is 6’7 and he plays center/forward! For a player who’s willing to claw his way against Dave Cowens, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Spencer Haywood, and Bob Lanier, Unseld barely felt the height difference. His bone-jarring picks and crisp, accurate outlet passes pretty much ignites a victory for the Bullets. Actually he was the key man in Washington’s championship in 1978.
MISSES: If you want a brawl, he’ll give you a brawl. However, the only thing missing in his repertoire is inside scoring. He is a feared defensive player like Dikembe Mutombo, Dennis Rodman, and Ben Wallace. If the Bullets instead relied on him and not Elvin Hayes in the offensive end, his stature could have been a bit better.
EXTRA POINTS: The Bullets went to the Philippines in 1978 where they faced the likes of Robert Jaworski, Ramon Fernandez, and Atoy Co. The Bullets won against the PBA All-Stars 133 to 123.

51 VINCE CARTER (Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, Orlando Magic)
STATS: 777g – 23.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 4.3apg, 1.2spg, 0.8bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (2), NBA All-Star (8), Rookie of the Year (1999)
HITS: Remember the 2000 Sydney Olympics when he “poster”-ized 7-foot-2 French tower Frederic Weis? This is basically his bread and butter. Vince Carter, bar none is one of the most electrifying and explosive scorers of the league’s history. For players with 400 games and more, he ranks 19th in scoring average and 54th in most points scored. He is also a very decent defender and just like former North Carolina shooting guards Michael Jordan and Jerry Stackhouse, he can pile up rebounds and assists in an instant. Unlike Stackhouse though, coaches had credibility in him to be their team’s main man.
MISSES: It hurts his rep that he has yet or may not lead a team to the NBA championship. The teams he joined had the tools to claim a NBA crown but as it progress, the teams are always dismantled. Imagine if McGrady, Damon Stoudamire, and Marcus Camby played at least their first seven seasons with the Raptors or if Dikembe Mutombo, Kenyon Martin, Kerry Kittles and company still were in the squad when he, Richard Jefferson, and Jason Kidd were manning the Nets. I am not saying that he’ll be their savior. Actually thinking back, what most of those teams lack is a strong inside presence. Will Vinsanity and Dwight Howard play beautiful music together?

50 BOB LANIER (Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks)
STATS: 959g – 20.1ppg, 10.1rpg, 3.1apg, 0.8spg, 1.1bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: NBA All-Star (8), All-Star MVP (1), Hall of Famer
HITS: The Dobber is a headache for opposing forces. He is unstoppable in the shaded area. He works best in offense and defense. At 6’10, he can make Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s job a nightmare. He could extend his range to those mid-range side jumpers a la Hakeem Olajuwon, he could elude defenders with his pivot skills and he could electrify the crowd with his rim-rattling dunks! He came from a successful NCAA stint at St. Bonaventure which led to him being the top pick in the 1970 Draft.
MISSES: Lanier was a great player but he came to the league battling the likes of Kareem, Dave Cowens, Jack Sikma, Wes Unseld, and Elvin Hayes, among others. Then, the NBA has yet to institutionalize the All-NBA Second Team and Third Team honors. In his NBA career, he never had an All-NBA citation.

49 MAURICE STOKES (Rochester/Cincinnati Royals)
STATS: 202g – 16.4ppg, 17.3rpg, 5.3apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (3), NBA All-Star (3), Rookie of the Year (1956), Hall of Famer
HITS: Despite playing for a mere 202 games, Stokes gained prominence because he was a seriously outstanding offense-defense player. While he lacked height, he was poised to give Neil Johnston, Dolph Schayes, and a young Bill Russell a slew of problems with his superb rebounding ability. Before Wilt Chamberlain entered, Stokes was the kid fans adored. After winning top rookie, he made the All-NBA and All-Star teams in all of his three seasons. He once grabbed 38 rebounds to average a high 16.3rpg in his rookie year. If he could move to the Sixers, Celtics, Knicks, or the Lakers, he will become a superstar.
MISSES: On March 12, 1958, Stokes drove to the basket and was knocked unconscious after receiving contact to his head. He was revived and he shrugged of the instance. Three days later, he fell ill, suffered a seizure, fell into a coma, and was left permanently paralyzed. He was diagnosed with “post-traumatic encephalopathy” which is a brain injury that damaged his motor-control center. He was 23 when it happened and he died in 1970 at age 36 despite his efforts to recover supported by former Hall of Famer, Jack Twyman. Had that head bump fail to happen, he could have been one of the best players seen by the league.

48 PAUL ARIZIN (Philadelphia Warriors)
STATS: 713g – 22.8ppg, 8.6rpg, 2.3apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (4), NBA All-Star (10), All-Star MVP (1), NBA Champion (1), Hall of Famer
HITS: Before the Warriors headed out to California, the team first settled in Philadelphia. The team starred a one-two punch combo of Neil Johnston and this guy… Pitchin’ Paul! Undauntedly one of the biggest names in the 50’s, the Pennsylvania native played his entire NBA career with the Warriors. In his early years he played alongside Jumping Joe Fulks and before his retirement, he played with Hall of Famer Tom Gola and Wilt Chamberlain. He was extremely gifted offensively, as he would twice lead the league in scoring. In his NBA career that spanned almost 12 years (although he was absent for two years due to military service in Korea), he only scored under 20 points per game once and that was in his rookie year.
MISSES: Even if he was that generation’s LeBron James or Carmelo Anthony, games back then lack the things current players enjoy. There was no 3-point area, no shot clock, and players then weren’t trained like players now. Also, Arizin could have been a force if he didn’t retire in 1962. Surely, with him and Chamberlain on board, the Warriors would have been insanely awesome. They could have at least prevented a championship or two from the Celtics’ grasp. The reason why Arizin retired? He loved Philly so much that when the Warriors left for San Francisco (later Oakland, then Golden State), Arizin didn’t join and simply retired. Come to think of it, Arizin lived and died in Pennsylvania.

47 WALT FRAZIER (New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers)
STATS: 825g – 18.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 6.1apg, 0.8spg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (6), NBA All-Star (7), All-Star MVP (1), NBA Champion (2), Hall of Famer
HITS: He is flamboyant, charismatic, and a loudmouth. Basically he’s a typical 70’s star. He would often arrive at the Madison Square Garden riding a Rolls Royce… wearing a mink coat… a broad-brimmed hat… basically he’ll wear what a modern day pimp would wear. On the court, he is a defensive mon-star. Sure, he could also score but his worth is seriously seen from his court smarts and wiliness. He would often “stage” a lazy act to all of a sudden swipe the ball as if like a blur. He is often associated as one of the all-best pointguards the NBA has ever produced.
MISSES: While he hardly did anything bad, Deron Williams and Chris Paul could stage a better career if they sustain their current state. Frazier’s number dropped when age sunk in. Injuries also caused his stint to somewhat get less than stellar. His Cleveland stint was played way past his prime.
EXTRA POINTS: He is nicknamed “Clyde”. It originated from the 1967 cops and robbers film Bonnie and Clyde. Warren Beatty’s character, Clyde Barrow, was a no-nonsense criminal who gained acclaim from his “Robin Hood-like” persona.

46 BOB MCADOO (Buffalo Braves, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons, New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers)
STATS: 852g – 22.1ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.3apg, 0.9spg, 1.3bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: MVP (1), All-NBA Team (2), NBA All-Star (5), Rookie of the Year (1973), NBA Champion (2), Hall of Famer
HITS: He was seen as a precursor to shooting big men like Dirk, Chris Webber, and Rasheed Wallace. While he played center-forward, he had no problems in scoring long range. His perimeter scoring made him an offensive menace to his adversaries. He was the league’s scoring champion in three consecutive seasons (1973-74 to 1975-76). He is the last NBA player to average 30 points and 15 rebounds in a season.
MISSES: McAdoo was a journeyman. He played for too many struggling teams that don’t have the confidence to stick with him. A reason for this is his injuries. While he did enjoyed success with the Lakers, he was the sixth man in the team. He did find a home in Europe, where he became an MVP and was named as one of the 50 important players of the Euroleague’s history.

45 TRACY MCGRADY (Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets)
STATS: 784g – 22.1ppg, 6.1rpg, 4.7apg, 1.3spg, 0.9bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (7), NBA All-Star (7)
HITS: He was once called the best High School Player in the US, he plays like a shooting guard but his size says otherwise. He owns long arms and insane athleticism that made him an instant hit among the fans. He is a major merchandizing magnet across the globe. As his career lengthens, so has his shooting touch. His style of play is often compared to George Gervin. He is a two-time scoring champion and he once scored 62 points against Washington in 2004.
MISSES: Okay, why is his rank this low? Well this could be easily answered by his two-year residence in Toronto as a second stringer. Now why is this rank any higher? Well T-Mac in his almost 13 years of NBA experience has yet to advance to the second round of the playoffs. Also he is often injured. He has yet to win any career-altering citations. And yeah, there’s a possibility that this rank will decrease if he plays injured anew.
EXTRA POINTS: Did you know that in 1997 Draft, former Chicago Bulls GM Jerry Krause thought of trading Scottie Pippen to the Vancouver Grizzles for their draft pick which was the fourth pick overall? The deal didn’t push because Michael Jordan threatened to retire. Krause would opt to choose T-Mac pick had the trade happened. McGrady was picked ninth by Toronto while the fourth pick of Vancouver turned out to be Antonio Daniels.

44 DOMINIQUE WILKINS (Atlanta Hawks, LA Clippers, Boston Celtics, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic)
STATS: 1074g – 24.8ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (7), NBA All-Star (9)
HITS: A very, VERY explosive scorer, he could mash his way to the shaded area to a rim-rattling jam! This is the reason why Nique was dubbed as the Human Highlight Film. In his days with Atlanta, he never averaged less than 20 points with a high of 30.3ppg he obtained during the 1985-86 NBA Season. He is ninth in the list of all-time scorers as he basically gave the Atlanta fans something to cheer about in the 80’s. Actually, the world also cheered for him because the slam-dunk wars he had against Michael Jordan and Spud Webb which he won twice. While he was left off in the 50 Greatest Players List, he’ll likely headline the next ten for their 60th anniversary.
MISSES: The trade that sent him to the Clippers for Danny Manning was a bitter pill to swallow. Wilkins loved Hot-lanta. The Clippers had the distinction of taking early exits and winless campaigns. After that, he drifted from one league to another. He won championships in Europe but couldn’t get in to a title squad even if he will play backup to a player he’ll own in practice. Luckily Atlanta gave Wilkins an office job and retired his number… because that is his only consolation for them messing up his career.

43 PAUL PIERCE (Boston Celtics)
STATS: 813g – 22.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.6spg
ACHIEVEMENTS: Finals MVP (1), All-NBA Team (4), NBA All-Star (7), NBA Champion (1)
HITS: Alongside Antoine Walker, the duo tried hard to relive the team’s glory days. But since Danny Ainge surfaced, Walker was traded, reacquired, and then traded again. In his career, The Truth suffered bouts of winless spells and various trade offers. Luckily with Ainge taking away Walker, Ainge gave him Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett to power the Celtics to a championship. He is currently the Celtics’ third leading scorer behind Larry Bird and John Havlicek.
MISSES: Luckily for Ainge’s entry but it was impossible for Pierce to win a championship with the pieces he was previously given. Instead of making the superstars become his deputies, Pierce also succumb to the awesome glare that is The Big Ticket.

42 DWYANE WADE (Miami Heat)
STATS: 394g – 25.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 6.7apg, 1.8spg, 1.0bpg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (4), NBA All-Star (5), NBA Champion (1)
HITS: D-Wade came to a team where their leader was Lamar Odom (haha). Owning the starting spot, he quickly found stride… especially when he led the Heat to the second round of the 2004 Playoffs. When a blockbuster trade sent Shaquille O’Neal to the Heat, he basically gave Shaq a Kobe-less title (Shaq would name Wade “Flash”). He is a heavy-scoring threat with a knack for defense. He was a constant part of the US Team that had its downs before the “Redeem Team” re-captured the gold medal in Beijing.
MISSES: He has yet to capture glory without Shaq. While it is too early for people to say about Wade’s fate, he’ll likely end up as an NBA great… if he continues to play like how he’s been playing for at least seven years tops.

41 GEORGE MIKAN (Minneapolis Lakers)
STATS: 439g – 23.1ppg, 9.5rpg, 2.8apg
ACHIEVEMENTS: All-NBA Team (6), NBA All-Star (4), All-Star MVP (1), NBA Champion (5), Hall of Famer
HITS: He is the first main event of the league. Call him the Shaquille O’Neal of the 50’s. Because of his lengthy frame, he could score at will, especially in the inside. In terms of defense, he was unstoppable as well. Back then when goaltending was legal, Mikan would often swat the shots before it could pass the ball. Actually, he would often give the hardest of fouls and play against the stingiest of defenses.
MISSES: His career was too short. Had his career made the 1960’s, his fate would have been different. Fact is though, he is always injured. His height, while important in his dominance, never suited the 6’10, 245lb beanpole. As a boy he shattered his knee so badly that he had to rest if for approximately 18 months. This injury would still haunt him in his playing career.
EXTRA POINTS: Mikan participated in one of the league’s most notorious ball games. Mikan’s Lakers lost to the Fort Wayne Pistons after the Pistons led 19-18. During those times, the shot clock has yet to be invented so until the final buzzer the score was untouched. This was the lowest-scoring game in NBA history and it forced the league to institute the shot clock. As consolation, Mikan scored 83.3% of his team’s points (15 of the Lakers’ 18 points), setting a record that could never be broken.

So we are nearing the A-listers!

Who’ll make the list? You might see the Iceman, the Web guy, a King, a Doctor, a kid, a guy that loves to freeze… maybe you have the answers… you just don’t know it yet.

Until next time.

GAME OVER!

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Poll: Where will Japeth Aguilar end up playing?

September 23, 2009 by .:. · 1 Comment 

Where will Japeth Aguilar end up playing?
Answers No. Of Votes
Answer 1:   NBA D-League 4
Answer 2:   PBA 27
Answer 3:   Smart Gilas 33
Answer 4:   WNBA! 36
Total Votes: 100

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Scouting Woes

September 21, 2009 by SYDMAN · 2 Comments 

I wanted to watch the UST-Ateneo game but I can’t. It seems like deep inside, I know how this will turn out. Sure, UST loves to relish on their never-say-die attitude instilled by former Ginebra guard Pido Jarencio. Plus, they have strong and dominating SG’s and SF’s like seniors Khasim Mirza, rookie Jeric Teng, and league MVP Dylan Ababou. A couple of years ago, Jervy Cruz, Japs Cuan, Jun Cortez, Chester Taylor, Francis Allera, Anthony Espiritu, and a young Dylan Ababou and Khasim Mirza helped lead the Tigers past the Eagles to win the UAAP crown.

Fast track to now.

I am pretty biased with regards to my school. Hell, I only took two entrance exams when I was applying for a college. UP is a gimme because I found the trees and the “subdivision” aura of the school amusing (although the hazing issues and the overpopulation of cross-dressers in the mass communication course kind of turned me off). UST however is my place to graduate because job opportunities come quick to those that finished from good schools. Also, my first taste of UAAP action was when Vic Pablo and Johnny Abarrientos were fighting against Jun Limpot and Johnedel Cardel. Then… KABLAM… the four-peat! From the time of Dennis Espino, Rey Evangelista, Edmund Reyes, Rudolf Belmonte, Henry Ong and Bal David… to Chris Cantonjos, Estong Ballesteros, Gerard Francisco, and Dale Singson… the talks of week-long no classes and month-long celebrations thrilled me. I passed all of my choices and I chose to learn at the gay-infested quarters (no need to get mad… some of them earn more than me) known as the Communication Arts Department of the College of Arts and Letters!

And up to now, I still hate Dino Aldaguer for ruining my only shot to experience championship glory as a current student of the campus (that triple will haunt all UST alums forever)! I’m huge fan of Renren Ritualo though… even though we called him an “alien” whenever he goes to the free throw line.

Do you think at our current roster we could sense an upset? Fact is we can’t. Back then we had Cruz. Cruz, the current Rain or Shine rookie, is unstoppable in the shaded area. He easily averages 15 points and 15 rebounds. In Cruz’ last year, the Tigers lived and died with the way he plays in a game. Come to think of it, the Tigers defended too much on their bulky mammoth, that’s why the revelation of Ababou and Mirza this season is great.

Ateneo’s frontline then was led by Ford Arao. Arao is well… not that great compared to Cruz. His inabilities were greatly exposed when then-backup Rabeh Al-Hussaini got extended minutes because of Ford’s offensive and defensive inconsistencies.

Pido Jarencio used his “equipment” wisely. He knows the Tigers lack size so he devised a way for them to be quick and become bent to score bucket loads of two’s and three’s. Problem is, they can’t get lucky always. Throughout the season, they have the tendency to squander big leads. Except for one win against UE and one loss against Adamson, their wins were pretty much consistent – they lose to Adamson, UP, and NU and the rest of the league could whip them with gusto.

This is because we lack size.

Without a dominating inside presence, Rabeh, a now more offensively sound player, gave the Tigers the urgency to double or clog the lanes because Chris Camus and Mirza (this season we went from SG to C) are too inexperienced or too thin to test him. With Rabeh becoming the main focus, the Eagles relied on Jai Reyes and Ryan Buenafe, apart from Al-Hussaini for their offense. Forget the fact that Eric Salamat netted a mere six… defensive beanpole Nonoy Baclao responded to the call by striking 13.

With the 81-64 rout, the Tigers were eliminated.

For two years, we placed the inside at the hands of Jervy. But at hindsight, UST never really developed a successor. I thought for sure, Mel Gile had a couple of years left, but as it turns out, we left the UST frontline to the 6’4 son of a former PBA player (Mirza and Ababou also stand at 6’4). Christopher Camus known as a key contributor alongside Jeric Fortuna, will alongside Jeric Teng lead the Tigers next season. He got his genes from U-Tex center Ed Camus. The older Camus is 6’3 and those days, that size gives you an edge in the inside. In their final four battle, Camus usually a player that could score eight points easily, was held down to a point. An undersized Camus could easily get exhausted by guarding Rabeh. Perhaps either Maliksi or Afuang will slide to the starting spot and maybe, Clark Bautista’s presence will blossom more next year.

Why is that DLSU, Ateneo, and even the other schools get so many big men and we couldn’t acquire any of them? Hell, I heard that if DLSU coach Franz Pumaren didn’t cut Teng from the RP youth squad Robocop’s spawn could have headed to Green Land. The Tigers in the 90’s and the early 2000’s saw a bunch of dominating centers to go with their highly-skilled guards. For every David, Singson, Belmonte, Francisco, Ong, Cuan, Cyrus Baguio, Nino Gelig, Emerson Oreta, Christian Luanzon, Jemal Vizcarra, among others were a tall order consisting of Espino, Reyes, Ballesteros, Evangelista, Cantonjos, Marvin Ortiguerra, Melchor Latoreno, Jeff Valeriano, Chandler Donaldson, Richard Yee, Gilbert Lao, Alywn Espiritu, Iago Raterta…

So where are the rest and why are they not reaching Espana???

I know for a fact that Jondan Salvador and Aries Dimaunahan were Team B players that never played in the Team A squad (Salvador would sign up to St. Benilde). Jervy before was a Team B player that was moved to the main squad when Jarencio took over coaching duties. The triple threat of the two Jerics and Bautista can seal the backcourt with perhaps Darrell Green becoming the other option (this disappointed because I was expecting a 6’6 center instead of a 5’8 guard) could work but they need to surround this cast with mammoths! Let’s face it, guys like Roel Hugnatan, Dino Daa, Nestor David, Bryan Faundo, Lawrence Bonus, even Arellano’s Gio Ciriacruz (I saw how this guy plays and his game resembles a bit of Jondan… MAN I WISH WE HAD THAT KIND OF PLAYER) could have had a better chance to make it to the pros if they latch on UST (that is, until they got snatched by Ateneo, DLSU, UE, FEU and San Beda). I bet if we handed scholarships to the likes of Ken Bono and JR Quinahan (forcing him to play in Manila) they would have OK’d the deal. And while San Sebastian is doing so well now (courtesy of offensive juggernaut Jimbo Aquino), the last prized player they had in the draft was Leo Najorda.

This early, the Tigers should post a huge billboard in Espana where they are hell-bent to grab the best high school players in the country. What’s their objective?

1) A guaranteed draft spot: Remember Mark Abadia? Is Abadia better than Allera? Abadia is a 6’4 slasher and Allera is a 6’4 shooter that can play the forward spots. Abadia could have been drafted in the PBA but since he played for Adamson, he was left out of the draft. I am not discriminating or anything but fact of the matter is, the PBA scouts love to acquire players from winning systems.

2) Playing time: The current FEU squad got this amount of playing time when Anton Montinola commanded to revamp the squad. Jonas Villanueva had no choice but to apply in the draft while Benedict Fernandez was the only veteran left in the squad. Except for these types of instances, a player would find it hard to play in a highly talented system. Let’s look at the current flock of rookies: Samuel Marata could have been more talented, but Teng was more assured of playing time. Hopefully with the team’s lack of size, players will be enticed to seal their careers in Tigerlandia.

3) Real life: Here is something you should bank upon. Scouts love to hound players with potential and send to schools that could offer them to use their talents as their livelihood. But what happens after this backfires? I know a lot of drivers and assistant cameramen (they are usually the ones that carry the tripod, the cords, do crowd control, etc.) that were once players from UAAP, NCAA, and other Metro Manila schools. Companies acquire them not for their abilities but for them to get the chance to win inter-company tournaments where you’ll play alongside a Jinggoy-framed boss and you’ll play out of your position because “you’re the only one that can play” (guards often play center in these meets too). But fact is, even if you play for a top school, to coin a friend’s maxim, “the future is always uncertain”. Whether you’re from Ateneo, DLSU, San Beda, UST, UP, or even from the lowly institute surrounding the archipelago, one thing you must nurture is your education. For every top brass exec named Mikee Romero, there are more hard-lucked potentials roaming the country.

Sure, National University could have spoiled a potential knockout duel between the Archers and the Tigers. Had that happened, I definitely feel that DLSU would one-up the Tigers for sure. Arvie Bringas has been dominating us… just like Rabeh, Nico Salva, Aldrech Ramos, Reil Cervantes, Elmer Espiritu and Pari Llagas. Laugh at DLSU’s unfortunate season now because next year they will become the team to beat. Now that DLSU’s “seniors” are out of the picture, guns will start to blaze with Samuel Marata, Bringas, the highly explosive Joshua Webb, (Elvis) Tolentino, Maui Villanueva, and elder statesmen James Mangahas, Hiram Bagatsing, and LA Revilla at the helm.

And the scary part? They could get more promising rookies that UST could only salivate from afar.

So if there are readers out there that are 6’3 and up, that is willing to play hard and work hard in terms of point production and inside offense, some often-flooded school in Espana needs your help next year.

Game Over.

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HooPh Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-09-20

September 20, 2009 by .:. · Leave a Comment 

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Nike to release limited edition Manny Pacquiao products in celebration of his astonishing 2.59 victory on 5.2.09

September 18, 2009 by .:. · Leave a Comment 

In commemoration of Manny Pacquiao’s historic win over Ricky Hatton, Nike will give Pacquiao fans a chance to own a piece of history with the limited edition 259 Pacman Knows Trainer 1 Mid shoe and Pacman Knows Tee. Both products celebrate Manny’s quick ending and astonishing knock-out time against Ricky Hatton last May 2, 2009. With only an interval time of two minutes and fifty nine seconds (2:59) the Hitman was knocked out on the canvas, adding another badge of victory to our very own Pacman.

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Denique Quattuor; Et Tu, Barroca?

September 18, 2009 by the-ocho · 2 Comments 

The dust has settled and after 2 months of interesting, intense, and inspiring battles, 4 teams emerged from the fray, in order to claim the right of being the 2009 UAAP Season 72 champions.  The Ateneo Blue Eagles, FEU Tamarraws, UE Red Warriors, and UST Growling Tigers are the Denique Quattuor, the final four left to battle for the crown. 

 

For the first time in 14 years (not counting their suspension year) the DLSU Green Archers are out of the final four.  Their lineup this year was glaringly weaker in than in the previous years, with no established superstars, a slew of promising rookies, and veteran role players.  Not to say they didn’t have a chance, but it boiled down to their final playing day.  Needing a win against lowly NU coupled with a loss by UST to 2nd placer FEU, they blew their chances by losing to the Bulldogs by 2 points.  The loss reflected their entire season: potential and heartbreak.  Gang green, take solace from the fact that your team actually has a good future with 3 RP Youth team members in its roster.  Mark my words, the troika of Bringas, Marata, and Banal will be a force to reckon with in the future.  Also, despite his antics, Joshua Webb is developing to be one La Salle’s resident household names, not unlike Mark Cardona and Joseph Yeo.   Franz Pumaren is rumored to be going out, because of his desire to run for congress.  If so, this shouldn’t be an appropriate last hurrah for arguably Philippine collegiate basketball’s best coach in the past decade. Another championship run and a crack against the Blue Eagles in the finals should be the fitting ending.  Brother Dindo will be a more than adequate as well as fitting replacement if ever.   He will succeed Franz, and will be the third brother to handle the team including Manong Derek.

 

Before I get to my Final Four review and predications, an uproar that sprung up quickly sprung out of nowhere that has put the Final four in the backseat temporarily is the Mark Barroca controversy.  Allegations of game fixing by the best PG in the UAAP has sprang up because of 3 successive sub par games, highlighted by a 0 point game against La Salle which they almost lost and an 8 point game, all in the first quarter, in their loss against Ateneo in the last game of the season to determine who will be number 1 seed.  Now I’m not privy to all the details but here’s what we know:  Barroca has stopped practicing with the team earlier this week.  Varying reasons were given, from being sick with flu, to being out of the city.  Reports had it that some of his teammates actually want him to be off the team and was being considered by the coaching staff.  It was revealed yesterday that Barroca will most likely be dropped by the team.  Barroca has maintained innocence and has been hurt that the allegations and the apparent lack of support from the team and coach Glen Capacio.  It is reported that he no longer wants to play for the varsity,  plans to finish up his studies from FEU, and continue playing with Smart Gilas.   The timing could never be worse as they are gearing up to face the league’s hottest team in UE.

 

We may never know all the facts and details behind this but this is most unfortunate not only to the School but the UAAP as well.  Rumors of game fixing have always been rampant, both in the UAAP as well in the NCAA.  Last year, FEU player Mac Bacarael was shot, which was also linked to game fixing. In recent memory, only 1 player has been charged and sanctioned and this was Paolo Orbeta of St. Benilde.  The league will need to take a tougher stand on this as this in threatening its position as the premier collegiate league in the country.  For Barroca, it’s a shame that he’s in this quandary right now as he is a big talent with big potential. 

 

 

Now back to the action.

 

Ateneo (1)(13 -1) vs UST (4) (6-8)

 

Why Ateneo will win: They have practically the best team all season.  It has evolved from being centered on last year’s MVP Rabeh Al-Husseni to a more complete and deeper team this year.  Despite Ryan Buenefe’s number’s being down from his ROY campaign last year, others have stepped up, particularly Nico Salva and Eman Monfort.  Eric Salamat has elevated his game to the next level, Kirk Long has found his niche as a defensive stopper, and Jai Reyes is showing steady leadership.  This has translated to a more team oriented offense as well as stifling defense.  For the 2nd consecutive year they have lost only 1 game and is a combined 29 -2. 

 

Why Ateneo will lose: Occasionally still prone to complacency and stagnation.  They barely won against FEU in the last game, having listless 1st and 3rd quarters.  Their loss to UP also showed that they are vulnerable.  3 years ago they were also favored against the Tigers in the finals, and then lost in 3 games.  Salva is also suspended for the 1st game for his punching foul against FEU. 

 

Why UST will win:  They have this year’s MVP in Dylan Ababou.  He has shown a quantum leap in his game and has carried the Tigers to the Final four, despite the losing record. When hot, Khazim Mirza is difficult to stop, especially from the 3 pt area.   Jeric Teng is a future star. Ateneo has had problems with athletic teams and UST plays with the run and gun style reminiscent of Ginebra during the Jawo days.  Although undersized, Camus and Afuang have traditionally given Al-Husseni problems.

 

Why UST will lose: Ateneo is simply the better and more balanced team.  The Tigers have no teeth down low and will get into periods of disorganized offense, leading mostly to 1-1 plays.  They also have the propensity to lose big leads.

 

Prediction: Ateneo in 1.  They are just too good and too deep to lose against UST.

 

 

FEU (2) (11 – 3) vs UE (3) (10 – 4)

 

Why FEU will win:  While it will be difficult especially with the Barroca situation, FEU is more than Barroca.  Rookie RR Reyes is showing why he deserves the ROY over Jeric Teng, taking up the PG slot and moving Barroca to the SG slot.  JR Cawaling has proved to be steady and reliable.  Aldrech Ramos is the only player averaging a double-double.  Paul Sanga is almost automatic from beyond the arc and can get really, really hot.  FEU has a deep rotation with quality and has shown that it can win despite Barroca playing sub par.  They can use the Barroca situation as a rallying point.

 

Why FEU will lose: The Barroca Effect.  I’m not referring to the loss in stats, but its affect to the team’s morale.  This can potentially cause divisions within the team.   This is a big distraction that is definitely not easy to ignore. He was also a big part of the team’s offense and someone else will need to step up. 

 

Why UE will win: They are the hottest team right now, with 5 consecutive wins.  Paul Lee has seemed to find his niche as an all-around player after starting out slow.  He now leads the league in assists.  Elmer Espiritu is now the league’s most exciting player with his dunks and blocks.  Pari Llagas has proved me wrong by being a steady low post threat.  Val Acuna can be deadly from the outside. UE is arguably the most athletic team in the league. 

 

Will UE will lose:  They may be peaking too soon. Shackle Paul Lee, and their offense suffers.  They are not as deep as FEU.

 

Prediction: UE in 2.  The Barroca Effect may be too much for FEU to overcome, unless he comes back and plays as if nothing happened, or FEU rallies behind this and plays inspired ball.

 

Fastbreaks: The PBA is 3 weeks away and teams are almost complete with tinkering with their lineups.  Burger King has left a slot open for Japeth Aguilar, should he wants to change his mind…..The NBA legends beat the PBA legends but both showing them Allan Caidic still rules.  I picked the right guy to idolize.  Their talking about having him play with the national team, at 46.  It’s just amazing how no other player comes close to his shooting ability.  Not Dondon, not Renren, definitely not Paolo Mendoza…..The best ever player has taken his place in the Hall of Fame.  MJ should take up Bryon Russel’s challenge just for kicks….San Sebastian is now at 14-0 but heated challenges are coming from San Beda and JRU.  We’ll see after next week if they still have the immaculate slate…..Heard Pearl Jam’s latest. While OK, its eon’s away from their grunge days.  Their previous album with the avocado was better.   

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