Will lightning strike thrice?

So far the Shaq experiment has yet to bloom.

I can understand Cleveland’s home loss against the Boston Celtics. While they raced to a 13-2 start, Boston’s bench was great in the middle rounds (especially in the third salvo). The addition of Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels, and Sheldon Williams really brought something new to the Celtic bench.

When Cleveland was hinting to turn the tables at crunch, you saw how their suffocating defense made Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen struggle. This leaves no choice for the C’s to score jump shots from Kendrick Perkins.

This happened thrice I think… and all attempts failed.

Doc Rivers charged a timeout and out came Wallace to sub Perkins. This is the versatility of the C’s frontcourt. With Perkins, they have a player to join KG in clogging the lanes. With Wallace, a scorer with a deadly outside touch, he opens up the defense. While the problem of having fewer players in the shaded area is a concern for Doc Rivers, the fact that he has more options now is a great sign (especially when the Big 3 succumbs to injuries midway in the season).

Anyway, Shaquille O’ Neal is a player that needs to become monstrous in the first 36 minutes of the game. Sure, he is one of the best centers in NBA history, but he is a liability come crunch time. Hell, there is a term named for his free throw inadequacies. He has slowed also, making him a liability in transition offense and defense. On paper, the tandem of Shaq and Zydrunas Ilgauskas is a twin tower combo with variation. Shaq dominates the paint… Z can sink mid-range jumpers. However, these two are slow players which mean Anderson Varejao is the only big man flexible enough to man the paint.

In the end, Boston gets their first win against a team that was almost invincible at home last season. The score was 95-89 where Paul Pierce barely reached 20 markers to lead Boston.

I won’t blame LeBron James because he was his awesome self in their first game netting 38 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and 4 blocks in 45 minutes of action. Shaq had 10 points and 10 rebounds in 29 minutes while new find Anthony Parker jacked up 10 points, 3 boards, 4 assists, and 2 swats in 40 minutes of action.

Parker played extended minutes with Delonte West still out due to personal problems. But in that first game, chemistry was lacking and in the end, it reverted back to the usual LEBRON JAMES SHOW.

Then came Toronto.

After a head-to-head battle with the Celts, the Cavs had no business losing to the Raptors. Again, problems haunted Cleveland. Shaq continues to become a liability at the stretch (-25 when he’s in) while Mo Williams went 2-for-10 in the two point zone. Sure, let’s say Toronto played brilliant ball. Chris Bosh was awesome piling in 21 points and 16 rebounds and Hedo Turkoglu gave the Raptors a reason for his importance. But it was Team Italia that gave Toronto the X-Factors. Prized former top pick Andrea Bargnani scorched the rim for 28 points while reserve Marco Belinelli added 10 points (+19 when he’s in the court).

Toronto won 101 to 91. James was struggling in his game but still managed to do a triple-double (23 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists). Again, most of his teammates merely watched him work. I don’t who to blame here but I like Shaq and I like Anthony Parker (who played a lot of games as a Raptor). Mike Brown needs to device plays that would maximize their strengths.

Maybe Minnesota could break them to the winning column. While the Wolves won their first assignment, outscoring New Jersey 31 to 15 in the fourth quarter to crave a come-from-behind 95-93 win, The Timberwolves is in for a tough season. Al Jefferson is a very undersized power forward that plays center for the team that also has Damien Wilkins and Ryan Gomes mismatched in their positions. Jonny Flynn led the Wolves with 18 markers against NJ but can he lead his team against a playoff-bound squad.

If he does… something needs to be done for the Cavs because they aren’t doing anything to get it right on the hardcourt.

Is this too early? I think this is WAAAAY too early. Dallas lost their first five games last season and went on to win 50+ regular season games. But certainly Cleveland needs to wake up soon.

Minnesota is a “dream” team that if you belittle, could turn into a nightmare.

Game over.

SYDMAN’S 25MM (DAY 1 UP TO OCTOBER 25, 2009)

Welcome to my first individual power rankings of the PBA’s 35th season. For those of you who know how this works, this is a bi-weekly countdown where I will count down the best player of the conference. I changed the name so that it would be more awesome. Here are the MARKED MEN of the current PBA season.

Last Philippine Cup, Macmac Cardona and Arwind Santos went neck-to-neck before the Air21 Express (now BK Whoppers) were eliminated. The new runner-up Willie Miller emerged as the BPC winner (I scored it in favor of Cardona).

Let’s see how things will turn out this season.
GAME STARTS NOW!

25 SMB: DORIAN PENA – Injuries to Danny Ildefonso and Danny Seigle gave the Big Dawg extended minutes. The Beermen lack ceiling with Mick Pennisi and Sam Eman as the only 6’6 and over players, that’s why the durable Pena is getting more playing time.
STATS: 25.7mpg (3games) – 8.3ppg, 11.7rpg, 1.0spg, 0.7bpg & 1.0tpg

24 BK: JR QUINAHAN – Baby Shaq is taking over at the expense of Japeth Aguilar. Good for him because I thought last year was a great season for the UV Lancer. However, Beau Belga and Richard Yee are aching to take away his top spot. JQ can’t be complacent.
STATS: 27.0mpg (4games) – 8.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg & 1.3tpg

23 ALA: JOE DEVANCE – The Speaker of the House debuts at this spot because while his team is playing well, Reynel Hugnatan is taking away his minutes. Add the fact that he could be sidelined due to bruised ribs… he needs to create impact soon and he actually could do such.
STATS: 28.3mpg (4games) – 10.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.8apg, 0.8bpg & 1.3tpg

22 TNT: ALI PEEK – The Man-Mountain is inconsistent. But when Peek has his game face on, imagine the benefits TNT reaps. Last Sunday, he blasted 6 of SLR’s shots off to the opposite side of their basket! Peek may be old… but who cares with the way he’s been playing.
STATS: 25.3mpg (3games) – 8.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.0bpg & 1.0tpg

21 BK: RONJAY BUENAFE – Gary David has been struggling as of late and it looks like Buenafe’s entry is meant to ease out Gary D (I wish I was wrong here). Anyway, Buenafe had a tremendous showing in their wins which means he’s the barometer of BK’s win-loss record.
STATS: 26.3mpg (4games) – 15.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.5spg & 1.8tpg

= INTERMISSION =

WAIT! I strategically placed the criteria of the rank in this spot so you can READ it.
Just like in the PBFANTASY, the multiplier for points is 1, 1.5 for rebounds, 2 for assists, and 2.5 for steals and blocks. Now these five stat categories would be summed up. But we also have to factor in their minutes played and turnovers per game. Basically the equation here is:

FIVE MAIN STATS – (MINUTES PER GAME / FIVE MAIN STATS) – TURNOVERS PER GAME

Why did I repeat the five main stats? The only thing I could think of is it doesn’t look pretty if you are seeing 0.1364645858.

The WINS and LOSSES are also important here because WINS are worth an additional THREE points but LOSSES give you a mere ONE point. DNP’s, regardless of how your team fares, is equivalent to a big, fat nada.

Included in the list are the players that played more than two games.

= END OF INTERMISSION =

20 TNT: MACMAC CARDONA – Captain Hook is slowly suffering the effects of the extended minutes of Jason Castro. Despite this, Cardona continues to give the Texters awesome numbers. And it’s not as if TNT is in dire need to use him. They are currently riding a three-game surge.
STATS: 29.0mpg (3games) – 19.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg & 3.0tpg

19 SMA: JAPETH AGUILAR – The great thing BK did to piss Aguilar’s career was to make him play a game for them (since he’ll be joining a guest team which will disappear in the near future, this makes a Top Rookie award impossible). Anyway, he is the only consistent big man in the talent-depleted RP squad… although he leads the league in turnovers.
STATS: 35.5mpg (4games) – 12.3ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.5apg, 2.5bpg & 4.5tpg

18 BK: CHICO LANETE – If there’s one good thing the “Wynne Arboleda fisticuffs” brought BK, it’s the fact that they are lucky to acquire Balboa. He was about to sign to the ABL’s Philippine Patriots when the offer arouse. He is currently the main PG of the lineup.
STATS: 26.0mpg (4games) – 11.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.8apg, 2.5spg & 2.3tpg

17 SLR: JOSEPH YEO – The departure of Denok Miranda gave the Ninja a ticket to the starting unit. He then grabbed the spot and gave Boyet Fernandez a ferocious backcourt duo (alongside Ryan Reyes) that could defend and shoot. Yeo is having career minutes and assists this season.
STATS: 34.7mpg (3games) – 14.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 6.0apg & 4.0tpg

16 ROS: GABE NORWOOD – He is the first guy in the list that is playing for a winless squad. Most of ROS’ losses are heartbreakers and they are lacking an offensive presence to lead them in crunch. Norwood is not doing enough for his team to get the W’s. He needs to do this ASAP!
STATS: 38.0mpg (3games) – 13.7ppg, 7.0rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg & 3.7tpg

= INTERMISSION =

The rookie race? Here are the leaders:

1) Rico Maierhofer (PUR), 2) Jervy Cruz (ROS), 3) Ogie Menor (BB), 4) Chris Ross (COK), 5) Marcy Arellano (ROS), 6) Josh Urbiztondo (SLR), 7) Ronnie Matias (BK), 8) Mike Burtscher (ALA), 9) Benedict Fernandez (BB), 10) Bryan Faundo (BB).

= END OF INTERMISSION =

15 SLR: GABBY ESPINAS – When he left Barako Bull, gone were the days where his talent is wasted. Now, he comes to a system where defense is vital. Espinas has been claiming double-doubles for three straight games now!
STATS: 36.3mpg (3games) – 14.3ppg, 12.7rpg & 3.0tpg

14 ALA: REYNEL HUGNATAN – Against Ginebra, he dominated. He grabbed 8 rebounds to go with his 20 markers and played heavy minutes with Sonny Thoss struggling. For a person who comes off the bench, his game is a welcome sight… only for his teammates.
STATS: 24.0mpg (4 games) – 15.0ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.0apg & 3.0tpg

13 SLR: RYAN REYES – Coming from an injury-plagued season, Reyes blossomed in his first two games. He is currently tied with Arwind Santos in terms of steals per game. However against TNT, he suffered a mild injury. Will this affect his gameplay?
STATS: 32.3mpg (3games) – 13.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.7apg, 3.0spg & 1.0tpg

12 PUR: JAMES YAP – Big Game James debuts near the top ten after impressive shooting performances against Ginebra and Barako Bull. And just like Kelly Williams, he has a “1” in his every stat which is an improvement from his outcomes last year.
STATS: 33.7mpg (3games) – 16.7ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.0bpg & 3.0tpg

11 SMA: MARK BAROCCA – If his stats were posted via winning games then he could have been in the Top 5… but no. Team Gilas has been listless since the BK match and the only bright spot is the FEU standout. He almost had a triple-double in his second game and posted big numbers duelling against Jayjay Helterbrand.
STATS: 28.7mpg (3games) – 13.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 7.7apg, 1.3spg & 2.3tpg

= INTERMISSION =

Before we see the Top 10, let’s look at the players that almost made the list:

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN (TOP 26 to 40): 26) ENRICO VILLANUEVA (GIN), 27) WILLY WILSON (GIN), 28) RICHARD YEE (BK), 29) ALEX CABAGNOT (COK), 30) BEAU BELGA (BK), 31) YOUSIF ALJAMAL (BB), 32) ROGER YAP (PUR), 33) NIC BELASCO (TNT), 34) RAFI REAVIS (PUR), 35) NELBERT OMOLON (SLR), 36) RICO MAIERHOFER (PUR), 37) SUNDAY SALVACION (GIN), 38) MICK PENNISI (SMB), 39) PAUL ARTADI (PUR), 40) JONAS VILLANUEVA (SMB)

= END OF INTERMISSION =

10 TNT: JASON CASTRO – The guards of TNT are extremely dangerous and Castro is no different. The press corps awardee could play both guard positions with relative ease. He is a help by either passing or hitting the shots that could kill runs.
STATS: 25.0mpg (3games) – 12.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.7apg, 1.7spg & 2.3tpg

9 PUR: KERBY RAYMUNDO – This Abet Guidaben play-alike is yeah, turnover prone but when he gets into a zone, be wary of him. To date, he’s averaging a double-double. Except for the Ginebra game, everything he’s been doing has been solid.
STATS: 33.3mpg (3games) – 14.0ppg, 10.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0bpg & 4.3tpg

8 ALA: LA TENORIO – The third Ace in the Top 10 is currently the team’s scoring leader. He is a consistent performer for the squad. And while he needs to dish more assists and control his TO’s, Expect Flying LA to be instrumental in Alaska’s wins.
STATS: 33.0mpg (4 games) – 16.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg & 1.3tpg

7 GIN: RONALD TUBID – Wow! With the absence of Caguioa and Junthy Valenzuela and the current state of Cyrus Baguio’s game, Tubid has evolved to become a superb scoring threat. Also, his rebounding, turnovers and defense are in exceptional conditions!
STATS: 31.0mpg (4games) – 17.5ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.8apg, 0.8spg & 0.8tpg

6 ALA: TONY DELA CRUZ – SURPRISE! Many might be wondering about his rank but don’t. You see, while people focus on Alaska’s top guys, we forget that TDC is an awesome force. He might not score high, but he is freakin’ effective when he plays! If you don’t believe me, check out Alaska’s win-loss card (1 turnover in 4 games!).
STATS: 30.8mpg (4 games) – 9.0ppg, 7.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.8spg, 0.8bpg & 0.3tpg

= INTERMISSION =

Before we dish out the Top 5, here are the scoring leaders (2 games and higher).

1) Macmac Cardona (TNT), 2) Jayjay Helterbrand (GIN), 3) JV Casio (SMA), 4) Ronald Tubid (GIN), 5) Arwind Santos (SMB), 6) Kelly Williams (SLR), 7) James Yap (PUR), 8) LA Tenorio (ALA), 9) Willie Miller (ALA), 10) Ronjay Buenafe (BK).

= END OF INTERMISSION =

5 TNT: JIMMY ALAPAG – Hey, here’s a representative from the OTHER undefeated team! He was actually at number 7 but I had to move him in the top five because hey if you’re Chot Reyes and you’re enjoying a damn big lead, will you risk playing the league’s current assist leader when the outcome has already been decided? I don’t think so.
STATS: 29.3mpg (3 games) – 11.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 8.0apg & 2.7tpg

4 GIN: JAYJAY HELTERBRAND – In his first few games he thought his job would be easier with the return of Menk and Caguioa. With both injured, the reigning MVP had no choice but to triple his efforts. He is second in league scoring and is third in the league in assists. How awesome is he!!!
STATS: 34.3mpg (4 games) – 18.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 7.3apg & 3.8tpg

3 ALA: WILLIE MILLER – The Thriller has two sides: he could either be explosive… or he could freaking phenomenal. While he often blows hot and cold, Alaska has yet to lose and you could blame him for this. And yeah, he posted the first triple-double of the season.
STATS: 33.8mpg (4games) – 16.0ppg, 9.0rpg, 4.8apg & 2.8tpg

2 SMB: ARWIND SANTOS – Yeah, while the guy gave a subpar debut and an improvement in his second game, the Beermen are still winless. And then they fought his former team… where he exploded! 28 points and 18 rebounds is awesome especially if you look at his minutes!
STATS: 29.3mpg (3games) – 17.3ppg, 13.7rpg, 0.7apg, 3.0spg, 1.0bpg & 1.3tpg

1 SLR: KELLY WILLIAMS – While his face is still bloated, he has been his same destructive self. Given that the blood disorder could be disrupting his game, he has managed to take it out in his “gaming” condition. Except for a subpar scoring night against the Texters, Machine Gun Kelly was unstoppable in his first two outings, leading his team to victory! He has a “1” in every stat and he leads the league in minutes.
STATS: 41.7mpg (3games) – 17.0ppg, 13.0rpg, 3.0apg, 2.3spg, 1.0bpg & 2.0tpg

The rankings will return after two weeks. Until then…

I’m going to pimp my site here! It’s pretty all things that I love. Visit http://www.sydrified.blogspot.com/.

And by the way…
GAME OVER!

HooPh Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-10-25

• arboleda’s punch could actually help hundreds people, victims of ondoy and pepeng… http://www.petitiononline.com/GIVEBK/petition.html #
• shaq to lead manny pacquiao to the ring? http://bit.ly/3QrO8J #
• Wynne Arboleda: The Filipino Ron Artest… http://bit.ly/tOPc2 #
• pacman will do jimmy kimmel live (taped)… the show airs nov4… http://fighthype.com/pages/content5990.html #
• incredible yao - http://image.wetpaint.com/image/1/dZrlqZ9zWXjgmOPoekrl9Q35299 #

PBA Power Rankings Week 2 and Around the Bayan

The 35^th season of the PBA is barely 2 weeks old but we’ve seen more than a fair share action, drama, and controversy.  The past few years has seen the collegiate leagues, particularly the UAAP, make strides in surpassing the PBA in terms in popularity (no doubt helped by the media empire that is ABS-CBN), but one of the busiest off-seasons in league history as well and interesting and eye-popping happenings early in the season has helped in stemming some of the tide back to the Bayan ng Superstars.  Still a long way to go, but no doubt an optimistic start. Here’s my take on a first 2 weeks of the fledgling season.

 

 

POWER RANKINGS (WEEK 2)

 

1. Baranggay Ginebra (3 – 0): Wins against co-favorites San Miguel, as well as Purefoods and the 28 point massacre of the Smart Gilas team puts them at the top of the heap.  Jayjay Helterbrand (17 ppg 7.3 apg 5 rpg) continues his MVP form from a year ago. Ronald Tubid (16 ppg 6.7 rpg) has seemed to have elevated his game.  Which is good news for them since Mark Caguioa (12.5 ppg) is hurting again, after just 2 games (they have got to worry about this).  Eric Menk’s (18 ppg 9 rpg) promising start has been derailed by a freak toe injury which will sideline him for 4 weeks.  But this year’s baranggay is deep and expect highly touted acquisition Rico Villanueva (9 ppg 7 rpg) to step up.  In fact, Ginebra is too deep this year that Cyrus Baguio (4.7 ppg) has yet to make an impact while noted utility guy Willy Wilson (11.3 ppg 7 rpg) is making a significant contribution, leaving guys like Rich Alvarez (1 ppg 4 rpg) and JC Intal (6.7 ppg 5.3 rpg) groping for playing time.              

 

2. Alaska (3 – 0):  It’s Miller time yet again baby, as Willie (17.7. ppg 10.3 rpg 5.7 apg) is making his bid to become only the 4^th player in league history to win at least 3 MVP’s (Bogs Adornado, Ramon Fernandez, and Alvin Patrimonio were the others) but most importantly, the 1^st guard to do so.  He started the season with a triple double against Barako Bull, and followed it with a double-double against San Miguel.  LA Tenorio (16.7 ppg) has also had a hot start as he tries to establish himself as among the best PG’s in the PBA.  Reynel Hugnatan (13.3 ppg 6 rpg) has been solid and Joe Devance (10 ppg 5.3 rpg) has given the Aces a solid frontcourt.  This early they are defying oddsmakers, who did not include Alaska as one of the tournament favorites with wins against Barako Bull, San Miguel, and Coca Cola, a good testament to coach Tim Cone’s time tested triangle offense.

 

3 (tie) Talk N Text (2 – 0): Defending champs wins over Rain Or Shine in their season debut and slaughtered “sister team” Smart Gilas by 33.  Mark Cardona (16 ppg) continues to be their offensive dynamo, as well as the player fans love to hate the most. PG’s Jimmy Alapag (11 ppg 7.5 apg 5 rpg) and Jason Castro (11 ppg 7.5 rpg 3.5 apg) give ample support.  Still needs to be tested with tougher competition as their wins were over winless teams.  But there is little doubt they can maintain their status with their deep bench What’s remarkable so far is that 8 out of their 12 players is averaging over 7 ppg, while the next guy is not far behind at 6.5 ppg.  For the record, they are Nic Belasco, Ranidel De Ocampo, big bro Yancy de Ocampo, Harvey Carey, Ali Peek, and Jared Dillinger.  Come to think of it, they are so deep that they gave away their bench players to Barako Bull, who are making significant contributions (more on that later). 

 

3 (tie) Sta. Lucia (2 – 0): It’s not often you have 4 undefeated teams into the 2^nd week of the season, so ranking the Realtors 4^th doesn’t give them justice.  Another team out to prove experts wrong, with wins over Coca Cola and Rain or Shine.  They have been known for their defense but it’s leading to offense, with 5 players averaging in double figures.  Kelly Williams (21 ppg 11.5 rpg) is slowly regaining his MVP form after being sidelined with a life threatening illness last year.  he is also expanding his game to be more of an all-around player with his 4 apg.  Ryan Reyes (14.5 ppg 4 rpg 3.5 apg 4 spg) is also hoping to bounce back from an injury plagued season.  Both want to make up for missing Team Powerade.  The trade for Gabby Espinas (13.5 ppg 13 rpg) is proving to be a coup as he is providing needed rebounds.  Joseph Yeo (12.5 ppg 6 rpg 7 apg) has relished his role as full time starter while Dennis Daa (12.5 ppg in just 14 mpg) has proved to be a surprise.  They still expect more from Bitoy Omolon (8.5 ppg 6 rpg 1.0) but Marlou Aquino seems to be fading into the sunset (4.0 ppg 1.bpg).   Remains to be seen if they can sustain their play despite their lack of ceiling as their wins has been against arguably weaker competition.

 

5. Purefoods (2 – 1):  They off-season spent on balancing the offense has been reaping dividends so far.  This year’s Giants has featured height, athleticism, and depth.  James Yap (16.7 ppg 4.3 rpg 3.3 apg) continues to be the main man in offense.  Kerby Raymundo (14 ppg 10.3 rpg) has had a steady start and expect him to have better numbers as the season drags along.  PJ Simon (13 ppg) continues to be the super sub, providing instant offense (but nothing else) off the bench.  Roger Yap (13 ppg) will try to defy Paul Artadi’s (7 ppg 4.7 apg) quest to become the starter at the point.  2^nd overall pick Rico Maierhoffer (8.7 ppg 7.3 rpg) has been getting the starting SF job, giving him a head start in the Rookie of the Year award.  Off-season acquisitions Rafi Reavis (6 ppg 10.3 rpg) and Marc Pingris (3.7 ppg 4.7 rpg) have had contrasting impact, with the former having 20 rebounds in his first game and the latter surprisingly still adjusting despite this being his 2^nd stint with the Giants.  Solitary loss came against Ginebra will they’ve won against Barako Bull and Burger King.

 

6. San Miguel (1 - 2): Overwhelming pre-season favorites has been disappointing so far.  Maybe a case of having too much?  That still remains to be seen as clearly they are still adjusting to one another.  Won against Burger King while losing against Ginebra and Alaska.  Arwind Santos (17.3 ppg 13.7 rpg) started slowly but is proving to be a good trade (as if there was any doubt) for the Beermen.  Dondon Hontiveros (12 ppg) has provided support although he has not made a single 3 point shot all season (0-6).  Danny Ildefonso (12.5 ppg) is slowly recovering form although he wasn’t able to play in their last game against the Whoppers.  Dorian Pena (8.3 ppg 11.7 rpg) gives the toughness inside that makes up for Mick Pennisi’s (10 ppg 54.6% from the 3 point area) forays outside.  Their PG “division” of Jonas Villanueva ( 7.7 ppg 4 rpg 4 apg), Mike Cortez (8.7 ppg), Denok Miranda (5.7 ppg) and ageless Olsen Racela (3.3 ppg) have been one of their strengths.  Lordy Tugade (7.3 ppg) is slowly coming back to form but, surprise, surprise, Danny Seigle (4 ppg) is injured again.  Still some familiarity issues but expect them to pick it up.  They started similarly in last year’s All Filipino and ended up in the semis. 

 

7. Burger King (2 – 2): In the spotlight because of the Arboleda incident.  First win against Smart Gilas was an eye opener.  Lost to stronger opponents in Purefoods and San Miguel (in a blowout) and won dramatically against Rain Or Shine. It’s Gary David’s team now and he has responded with 13.7 ppg.  Chico Lanete (13.7 ppg 4.3 rpg 3 apg), Ronjay Buenafe (13 ppg 3 apg) and Richard Yee (9.3 ppg 9 rpg) have proven to be great pickups. Beefy centers JR Quinahan (10.3 ppg 7.3 rpg) and Beau Belga (7 ppg 6 rpg) have ably manned the center slot.  Egay Billiones (8 ppg) looks to capitalize on Arboleda’s year long banishment while Mark Yee (7 ppg) has taken advantage of his call up from Liga Pilipinas.  The Whoopers have been under fire because of their unusually rough and physical game against Smart Gilas, leading to Arboleda’s suspension (more on that later too), but coach Yeng Guaio’s trademark has been to make the most of what he has and outside of Gary David and rising star Buenafe, this team is primarily full of role players and 2^nd stringers.

 

8. Barako Bull (1 – 2):  Filler team is over achieving, so far.  After a lackluster opening against Alaska, surprised Coca Cola with a win and gave Purefoods a hard time before sputtering in the end.  Old holdovers Magnum Membrere (14 ppg) and Jojo Duncil (10 ppg) are leading the team in scoring.  Talk N Text  and Coca Cola cast offs Yousif Al-Jamal (9.7 ppg 8 rpg), Donbel Belano (7.3 ppg), Gilbert Lao (4 ppg 6.3 rpg), and Aris Dimaunahan (7.3 ppg) have found new life, as well as playing time.  Alex Crisano (7.3 ppg 8.3 rpg) is their starting center, and, for better or worse, one of the team leaders.    Rookie Ogie Menor (8 ppg) is making his run for Ronald Tubid’s title of Most Annoying Player in the PBA.  Only Leo Najorda (9 ppg) has played below expectations. It remains to be seen if they can sustain this effort but Tony Chua must be smiling from heaven with their performance so far

 

9. Rain Or Shine (0 – 3): Probably the most disappointing team so far.  Much has been expected from them after a surprising season last year but has opened with a defeat to Talk N Text, and close loses to Sta. Lucia and Burger King.  It’s troika of emerging stars of Gabe Norwood (14 ppg 8 rpg 3 apg), Sol Mercado (7 ppg) and Jay-R Reyes (6 ppg 4.5 rpg) have just not been living up to potential, especially Mercado and Reyes.  Lucky for them Ryan Arana (10.5 ppg) and Eddie Laure (11 ppg 4 rpg) have stepped up.  Jervy Cruz has the inside track on the ROY race, almost averaging a double-double (14 ppg 9.5 rpg).  Mark Telan (8 ppg 11.5 rpg) has been a good addition.  This team can do more than what they have showed and they better step up.  Former That’s Entertainment member (and a classmate of mine in grade school) Caloy Garcia will be in trouble if things don’t change soon.

 

10. Coca Cola (0 – 2):  A team without an identity and chemistry.  Losses to Sta. Lucia, Barako Bull, and Alaska by an average of 12.7 points proves that making a lot of off-season moves is not necessarily a good thing.  Still it’s too early in the season to write them off.  Most alarming fact , only Alex Cabagnot (14.5 ppg 5 rpg 4 apg) is averaging in double figures.  Asi Taulava (6.5 ppg 7 rpg) started out well against the Realtors with 11-11 game but got injured early against Barako Bull and has not played since.  Status is day-to-day.  This leaves Dennis Espino (9.3 ppg 5.7 rpg) and Larry Rodriguez (8ppg 9.3 ppg) to make up for his absence.  Norman Gonzales (8 ppg 5 rpg) has been a quiet surprise but they need more offense.  Maybe RJ Rizada (7.5 ppg) and
Wesley Gonzales (4.7 ppg) can take advantage and step up their games.  Or maybe Chris Ross (3.7 ppg 3.7 rpg) can be more of the PBL MVP and number 3 over pick that he is.  Their most glaring problem is they do not have a system in place yet.  They want to run, but not with plodding dinosaurs Espino, Taulava, and Rodriguez (not to mention Ken “I shouldn’t have been traded to Burger King since I am still a Whopper” Bono). A look at their bench shows head coach Kenneth Duremdes sitting down most of the time and assistant coach Bo Perasol more active on the sidelines.  Maybe it’s because of Kenneth’s broken arm, or maybe it’s something else.  Hmmm.

 

 

WYNNE ARBOLEDA GOES ARTEST                                                                                                  

 

The Snatcher’s kick and punches to Alain Katigbak has put the PBA in the spotlight, even outside the country.  While the PBA relishes exposure and publicity, this is clearly not what it had in mind.  Arboleda has officially gone where no other player has gone before, by going postal on Katigbak.  While there have been plenty of player-fan confrontations, no player has ever physically assaulted a fan.  Also note that prior to the incident, the game saw 4 flagrant fouls and 3 very dubious fouls, in a span of just 1 ½ quarters of play.  Burger King wanted to teach the Smart Gilas team a lesson in toughness and physical play, but one should wonder if playing dirty is necessary.  Remember these guys are kids, albeit well paid, but kids nonetheless.  Does Burger King think that hacks to the head, elbows to the face, elbows to the chest, and completely undercutting someone attempting a layup are necessary preparations for the international game?

 

The PBA is clearly embarrassed by this and has suspended Arboleda for the season.  Now his salary forfeited and his playing future is in doubt.  Burger King has all but stated that they want to part of this, as it compromises their corporate and brand image world wide.   Katigbak says that he has been bruised and traumatized by the incident and despite Arboleda’s suspension is still pressing charges.

 

What the PBA should take away from this is that both fans and players should be protected.  Arboleda wouldn’t have gone bananas if Katigbak wasn’t cussing the hell out of him.  There should be security in the playing arena to look out for abusive fans.  Paying for a ticket doesn’t give them the right to be hooligans.  At the same time, Arboleda should have practiced restraint.  Like it or not, he is a playing professional and is expected to act accordingly.  Without fans, there wouldn’t be a league and attacking them is certainly not the valuing them.  What he should have done was go to his coach or manager seated behind the bench to ask security to talk to Katigbak or bring him out of the arena.  This could have saved him 2 million plus pesoses. 

 

 

SMART GILAS IN TURMOIL

 

What was initially a promising start for the Smart Gilas national team is turning out to be a nightmare.  After a rousing win over Powerade Team Pilipinas, Gilas gets a does of PBA reality by losing to Burger King, Talk N Text, and Ginebra by an average of 23.7 points.  At the forfront of their woes are CJ Giles personal issues.  There were already rumors of his late night escapades leading to his less than desirable practices, he then gets a bombshell that his son was diagnosed with a blood disorder, leading him to go back to the US.  Whether this is true or not, this greatly affects their campaign.  Their system relies on his length and athleticism and his absence leaves only a green Japeth Aguilar (all 2 weeks of him learning the system) manning the slot.  Still the good thing about this is that they have time to look for a replacement, if needed.  Giles has a history of personal problems with Kansas then Oregon in college.  Still his talent has given him 2^nd chances with the Lakers and now with Gilas.  Hopefully he gets everything straightened out and he goes back to Gilas.  Another plus is that for one JV Casio is playing well and may have found his niche as a scoring and outside shooting PG, and Chris Tiu is actually playing well and living up to all the hype.  Guess Milo really works and is the real deal.  I better start drinking again.

 

 

Fastbreaks:  Tomorrow the undefeated teams will be down to 2 as all four will be playing with Ginebra going against Alaska and Sta. Lucia facing Talk N Text…….San Sebastian denies San Beda a 4^th straight championship by sweeping the series in 2 games.  Proves that you don’t need an African monster in the paint to win a title.  Rookie Coach Ato Agustin and his wards made believers out of many people, including myself, by winning 2 straight.  Prior to that they seemed to have lost momentum by losing to the Red Lions twice and JRU once.  Denied of the regular season MVP because of a suspension, Jimbo Aquino made up for it by winning the Finals MVP.  The 2^nd game was not devoid of drama as Aquino sprains his ankle about 2 minutes left in the game with the Stags on precariously top.   A few plays later, San Beda star Bogie Hermogida gets cut inadvertently over the eye.  Rabid Bedans started throwing bottles to the court but luckily cooler heads prevailed….It was a good day for hoops this afternoon.  Along with the NCAA title game, Burger King won a thriller over Rain Or Shine with Ronjay Buenafe hitting the game winning shot.  Over at BTV, they were showing a replay of Ginebra’s demolition of Smart Gilas, while Star Sports showed the pre-season game of the Lakers vs. Nuggets…..Lakers lost but they are overwhelming favorites to repeat this year.  Ron Artest doesn’t only make them tougher, it made their bench deeper.  Season tips off this Saturday with them playing the Clippers while the Cavs take on the Celtics in the marquee game…..Check out the first pic of the new A-Team.  Rampage Jackson looks like a good BA Barracus but there’s only 1 Mr. T and I pity the fool who dares take his place.

Not just a “FILLER” Team

The team has zero superstars what’s-so-ever… Talk N’ Text gave up five players for virtually nothing (although the team became handy as the “third party” in the Japeth Aguilar case)…

Alex Crisano is their team captain.

Who on earth will take Barako Bull seriously?

If this was before the 2009-10 Philippine Cup, I’d probably say the hundreds of whose jobs rely on Red Bull’s income would.

Now I’m not so sure.

You see, this team is out to tell the basketball world that they are not a ragtag team. Sure, the start of the Philippine Cup has been crazy. As of this writing, souped up teams like San Miguel and Coke are struggling while team with less talent but obvious chemistry like TNT and Alaska are flourishing. But you can never discount the fact that Barako Bull is out to overachieve… BIG TIME!

Gilbert Lao has eclipsed his playing time in last year’s Philippine Cup (as a member of reigning champs TNT) in a single game as a Barako Bull. I have been critical of Gilbert Lao I must say because even if he is an alumnus of my alma mater (VIVA SANTO TOMAS), I hate the fact that he has a long tenure in the league while better UST players like Marvin Ortiguerra, Alwyn Espiritu, Emerson Oreta, Nino Gelig, Mel Latoreno, Jeff Valeriano, Jemal Vizcarra, among others barely made an impact or didn’t even see PBA action. But as of this moment, he is enjoying playing time he dreamt of since reaching the big ranks. Same goes for guys like Chad Alonzo, Yousif Aljamal, Aris Dimaunahan, Donbel Belano, and Crisano. While Edwin Asoro was a draft pick wasted (it seems that he didn’t had the goods to play in the league), rookies Ogie Menor, Benedict Fernandez, Bryan Faundo, and Jim Bruce Viray will provide the youth for this crew. Rob Reyes and Jec Chia are nursing injuries but they’ll help the squad in the near future.

Aside from Crisano, other holdovers include Jojo Duncil, Magnum Membrere, Paolo Hubalde and former NCAA MVP Leo Najorda. While Najorda needs to pick up his game, and Hubalde needs to grow as a player, Duncil has been the key player for Leo Isaac in the shooting guard post. Membrere, in his first game in this conference, logged 14 points in 13 minutes.

While Leo Isaac seems to get the handle of his new squad, let’s break down a great starting five for this squad.

POINT GUARD: DONBEL BELANO

While Dimaunahan is not a shy guy in scoring, they have Duncil to shoot the lights out. Belano is needed to create stability in the PG spot. Before he sat out his last year at TNT, he was the key backup of Jimmy Alapag especially when the Texters were contending along with Asi Taulava and Willie Miller. Also, young people need to remember that Belano was the key person at Davao when the Eagles were still playing in the MBA. He changed his number from 9 to 42 because he was the first Pinoy pro player in the country’s history to record a quadruple double so he could lead whenever his team needs it.

SHOOTING GUARD: JOJO DUNCIL

The guy is a hit or miss player. His shot selections aren’t that attractive at times but when he streaks, he becomes dominant. Remember when the UST Tigers snatched the title away from JC Intal’s Blue Eagles? It was mostly his presence that made Jervy Cruz’ job a bit lighter. He needs to understand the SG position though. He needs to learn to pass when doubled and needs to learn to pass NOT due of getting clamp down or via desperation. A couple of years ago, this may have been understandable because Duncil was playing behind better scorers. Now… he has the position all by his lonesome so shooting every time he gets the ball makes him a selfish ball hog.

SMALL FORWARD: YOUSIF ALJAMAL

This is the position I’m really excited at because Aljamal is a player that yearns attention since donning the BB colors. Years under the talent-heavy rotation of TNT made him seriously pissed and a fresh start is what he longs for. People forget that he was a main man at San Beda (Sam Ekwe is just big… dominant… basta, Aljamal was a MVP then!) and TNT just made him a big time benchwarmer. In his game against Alaska he played strong and against Coke, it seems that he wanted to become the team’s star. If there’s a person that would become the team’s main man… I bet on Yousif.

POWER FORWARD: GILBERT LAO

When Welcoat entered the league, Lao had his chance to shine… but he bombed in his role. Now he is playing for his right to become a name and in two games, he needs to up his average. While you can see that he looks like a man on a mission, he needs to have believability on his actions. While he is better than Mark Andaya (playing now for the Philippine Patriots), people doubt the fact he could handle the big boys. Adding a tad of confidence in his game should do the trick. Lao is 6’7 and could bang bodies… he can play like a Yancy de Ocampo… if he seriously wants to. If he fails, Bryan Faundo could be asking for his spot.

CENTER: ALEX CRISANO

The guy is a walking controversy. He is also a walking billboard. He could walk in Greenhills wearing only beach shorts and you could have seen him in some scandals. When the late Tony Chua asked Crisano to be the team’s captain, Leo Isaac could have had a season-long migraine starting at that moment. But he didn’t. Crisano is doing things that PBA coaches wouldn’t permit him to do. He shoots three pointers now, lead fast breaks, haul boards and lead! LEAD! Sure, his “ogre-ness” is seen here and there but you know he is eager to succeed in this new role. He needs to control his temper though… aside from the fact that he is foul-prone.

THE SURPRISE PACKAGE: OGIE MENOR

I like this guy’s chances. He is the younger version of Ronald Tubid. He might have some “hiya-hiya” but he is capable to contribute at the clutch when needed. He could take Duncil out of the SG or become a credible SF for the team. However, he needs to up his averages. For some reason, he is playing safe. If I have Menor playing safe, I’d rather trade him for mechanical players (those who know their role and limits) like Norman Gonzales. However, Menor and his daredevil persona need to start now!

Whether this win will be their last, is a question only the Barako Bull Energy Boosters could answer. Nonetheless, this ragtag core has everything to gain from their standpoint. No one expects them to win games but now, everyone would play them hardest because they are asking for respect.

If they can’t politely ask for your respect… THEY WILL DEMAND IT!

Game over.

HooPh Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-10-18

• ateneo al hussaini should be smart… http://bit.ly/310zya #
• japeth aguilar freak show continues… http://bit.ly/3PM8Gs #
• “they have a lot of strength, a lot of pride” bryant’s take on pinoys. http://bit.ly/GuHmn #
• SBP bids to host 2010 FIBA Asia Champions Cup - http://bit.ly/1D2l6K #
• no bobby ray parks jr. for rp’s fiba u16 team… http://bit.ly/PA3h1 #
• twit twit twit, pba’s salary cap is sh*t… http://bit.ly/DIJNv #

MMA: Mixed Martial Arboleda!

Wynne Arboleda versus Alain Katigbak shouldn’t have happened.

Unfortunately, events leading to the contest were enough to predict that these events will eventually happen. The Snatcher was inserted at the halfway point of the opening salvo. Camera shots at his face say that he had a hateful aura. There is foam… or dripping saliva beneath his lips.

I don’t know how Katigbak could have started his verbal onslaught but it seems that his bump on JV Casio ignited the incident. Patricia Hizon stated that before the assault, Katigbak has been hurling expletives to Arboleda and the rest of the Whoppers.

The final straw came when Mac Baracael jumped for a layup when not only Arboleda crossed his jumping path, but he somewhat folded causing the former FEU standout to fall dangerously. Arboleda was accessed with another Flagrant Foul but did it matter? By this time, the Snatcher is about to maul the “competition”… outside the hardcourt.

Watching Arboleda pounce Katigbak is much, much different than how Artest wielded on the fateful Pistons fan. While Artest leaped a la Stone Cold Steve Austin, Arboleda was more methodical in his approach. He was like a UFC fighter beating up a heckler (or maybe a contest in The Ultimate Fighter). He stuck his foot on the stomach of Katigbak and the only thing a shocked Katigbak did was cover his face. Then Arboleda ripped four vicious blows and I bet a couple of those connected in the skull. Before the referees could stop it, I swore Mark Yee was also bent on joining the action. Fortunately he didn’t but this is where Smart-Gilas was smart as there was no retaliation scored with all those blows thrown at them. Arboleda was sent to the bench as Katigbak was escorted off the court with him glancing at the BK bench (as if he could do something).

Fans should seriously respect the players. Sure, they could fumble plays but this does not mean they are worthless. If they are worthless, then why are they playing in the biggest stage of Philippine Basketball? Off-court they are fathers, sons, and grandkids just like all of us. Getting maltreated has its pros and cons. Katigbak learned that the hard way by pulling off that stunt against Wynne. This is the reason why I try my best to look at their accomplishments rather than their mistakes. Katigbak was so bent on cheering his team that he forgot that basketball players have feelings too.

On the other hand, Wynne shouldn’t have punched the fan. Unlike Marlou Aquino’s incident or Danny Ildefonso and Marc Pingris’ moment, the cameraman caught the brawl in a good angle. The fan didn’t made any attempt to counter the Snatcher’s flying fists (as if he could do something about it)! If boxing refs would hand out a win because the opponent cannot fight back, basketball officials would slap a hefty fine on Wynne because he ravaged on a defenceless person. Katigbak had glasses on. In those Disney films, you learn to never punch a person with their glasses on!

This could cause Katigbak a ban in terms of seating arrangement (Off to Upper B, rich person!) while Arboleda could get a suspension, a fine, and perhaps a lawsuit for assault (if reports are true and Katigbak is rich, then he’ll have his way if he is that pissed).

But on a happy note, if you brawl, that’s the proper way to brawl! Arboleda was smart to clamp him so he could score head shots.

This is like the good ol’ days when Toyota and Crispa players would brawl with the fans.

Could this be the start of the PBA’s return to the top?

Err… I hope I won’t encourage them. 

50 PBA’S MOST DECORATED SUPERSTARS

First of all, the reason for this list is to scope out the players with the most number of recognizable achievements. Now you might ask… how will I rate this? The achievements mentioned here are the awards that they earned during their tenure as a player.

The criterion is as follows: The MVP Award is good for five points. The Mythical Five is good for three points while being part of the Mythical Ten earns one point. One point is also given to those players that won a Best Player of the Conference, Finals MVP, and All-Star MVP while an All-Defensive Team citation earns 0.5 points.

The players that were sighted as part of the 25 Greatest Players list will earn five points. Since the pioneers don’t enjoy many awards back in their day (the annual awards “package” only has the MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Mythical 5 plums), the pioneers automatically gets three points. RP Team members also get two points but the players have to participate in events such as the Olympics and the World Championships.

The Rookie of the Year unfortunately will not matter since this is not like the NBA where the Rookie of the Year then would eventually become a SUPER superstar in the near future (I am sighting Boybits Victoria, Rich Alvarez, Eugene Quilban, Larry Fonacier, Dondon Ampalayo, Willie Pearson, and Andy Seigle).

So for the tens of leaders reading this… (Chris could hate this while Ocho could like this) GAME STARTS NOW!

50 “J-WASH” JAY WASHINGTON
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2)
GLORY: After a dismal rookie season, Washington finally found his worth as the guy that gets the loose balls and convert it to either medium-range shots or explosive dunks. Formerly from TNT, the current SMB player has evolve into an all-around threat.

49 “ALO” AL SOLIS
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2)
GLORY: He started out as a backup at Shell and Purefoods. However, he rose to fame when he led the then-expansion Pop Cola team in points. He proved to be a great scorer outside the 2-point zone… like the usual norms of a typical southern player.

48 “THE SPARK” MARK CAGUIOA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1)
GLORY: Perhaps the most popular Ginebra player of the current generation, its funny how even if he is bar none face of the league, it seems like the awards snub his existence. Will this season break the jinx?

47 “H-BOMB” RUDY HATFIELD
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (2)
GLORY: Triple H, I mean Rudy Hatfield is a small frontliner blessed with quickness and power. He loves to own rebounds and he helped Coke and Ginebra score titles. Had he didn’t go AWOL; Ginebra wouldn’t have a frontline problem (solved during Villanueva’s entry).

46 “THE MIGHTY MOUSE” JIMMY ALAPAG
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), All-Star MVP (1)
GLORY: Asian players fear him while Philippine players idolize his court vision. His presence alone makes his team awesome. Aside from his accurate passing, his scoring accuracy beyond the arc is fabulous!

45 “THE MENACE” DENNIS ESPINO
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), All-Defensive Team (2)
GLORY: Playing out of UST, this wily post-up scorer boasts the fact that he has helped Sta. Lucia in securing two championships. The interior is his realm. While he won’t block shots, his stingy defense and veteran smarts are commendable.

44 “BIG DAWG” DORIAN PENA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (1), All-Defensive Team (1)
GLORY: Yes, this entry seems… unreal. Well, we should all blame the 2000 and 2001 seasons where SMB monopolized the championships. But to his credit, he was a key defender and a sometimes scorer for the SMB five.

43 “THE SULTAN OF SWIPE” BERNIE FABIOSA
GOLD: 25 Best Players of the PBA, 2 Grand Slams
GLORY: Leading five legends (seven if you count Danny Florencio and Lim Eng Beng who briefly played for the Redmanizers) Guidaben, Co, Cezar, Adornado, and Hubalde wouldn’t have their storied career if not for his exemplary playmaking skills. He is a tiresome defender too.

42 “THE SKYWALKER; THE DRAGON” SAMBOY LIM
GOLD: Mythical 10 (2), All-Star MVP (1). 25 Best Players of the PBA, 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: While his career was brief and injury-plagued, Lim’s aerial artistry gave the Beermen something to cheer at during the 90’s. He could slice through a stonewall defense and throw dipsy-doos only him could perceive as shots.

41 “THE ROBOCOP” ALVIN TENG
GOLD: Mythical 10 (4), All-Star MVP (1). All-Defensive Team (6), 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: Known as a enforcer for his hard-nosed defense, he was one of the cogs of San Miguel’s glory days in the late 80’s and early 90’s. He then developed offense when he became the main man of the expansion team Pepsi.

40 “BIG GAME” JAMES YAP
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (1)
GLORY: Predominantly an offensive player, he blossomed as a leader during Purefoods’ battles against Red Bull in mid-2000. He has the ability to disrupt an opponent’s defense because he can hit his shots in any distance.

39 “THE HAWK” BONG HAWKINS
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (2), All-Defensive Team (1). 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: One of the cornerstones of the dominating Alaska squad that got a grand slam in 1996, he was an undersized power forward with a very effective side shot. He is also a capable defender and an excellent clutch performer.

38 “SPIDERMAN” ARWIND SANTOS
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (1), All-Defensive Team (3)
GLORY: The youthful forward from FEU can play all five positions if needed. He is also a two-time MVP runner-up, as in these seasons, he averaged at least one in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks.

37 “PIONEER” ADRIANO PAPA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (2)
GLORY: Playing for Crispa in the MICAA, he moved on to other squads before hanging his sneakers in 1980. Papa’s claim to fame is being a RP member? Well, unlike the current RP Team version, Papa played for two RP Teams that reached the Olympics.

36 “RARA” OLSEN RACELA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (1)
GLORY: During the late 90’s and the early 2000’s, the former Ateneo guard was voted as the best point guard of his time. He orchestrates well, plays with intensity, could score when needed, and gives his team clutch plays when asked.

35 “MAIN MAN” MANNY VICTORINO
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3)
GLORY: In the early 80’s, the sleepy-eyed Victorino was considered as the Dennis Espino of his generation. He is a post up player that has a credible jumper and could run the floor for a fast break or an unsuspecting block shot.

34 “BICOLANO SUPERMAN” YOYOY VILLAMIN
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), Mythical 10 (3), All-Defensive Team (7)
GLORY: One of the more durable cagers to play in the league, the burly power forward was a force when he played for the Alaska Milkmen. He was bruising his way to the basket and he was thwarting shots. This feat also continued as part of the Pop Cola squad.

33 “THE DRAGON” LIM ENG BENG
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: Known as a super scorer playing for DLSU in the NCAA, Beng was one of those significant PBA stars not playing for either Crispa and Toyota. While he did play for Crispa in the team’s final years, his steady scoring and great playmaking is his main assets.

32 “POINT LAUREATE” RONNIE MAGSANOC
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), Mythical 10 (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: During the 90’s, you are not watching a Shell game when you don’t hear “Magsanoc… THREE POINTS” being shouted by the barker. He is a deadly outside shooter and a great assists guy (usually for Benjie Paras).

31 “DAREDEVIL” DANNY FLORENCIO
GOLD: 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (2)
GLORY: Here is another player who had international experience playing for the Olympics and at the World Championships. Florencio is a proven competitor. He takes emphasis on hustle and he could shoot anywhere possible in the court. He played for Crispa in the MICAA and then became a mainstay of Toyota in the PBA.

30 “SKYSCRAPER” MARLOU AQUINO
GOLD: Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (4)
GLORY: He entered the league with such hype and while he failed to reach people’s expectations, when inspired, he was a force to reckon. Most of his accolades happened during the Ginebra team of the 90’s where they were a constant challenge for Alaska and SMB.

29 “THE DIRECTOR” HECTOR CALMA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: He was the man behind SMB’s dominating grand slam season. At 5’8, he demanded respect inside the hardcourt with his sure orchestration, great ball-handling skills, and crisp passes. He was also a part of the Ron Jacobs-coached Northern Consolidated Squad.

28 “DYNAMITE” DANNY SEIGLE
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (2), Finals MVP (2)
GLORY: One of the most explosive scorers of the league’s history, surely Seigle could have won MVP titles had not for his injuries. His trademark tomahawk and hang-time jumpshot makes him a cut above the rest.

27 “MACHINE GUN” KELLY WILLIAMS
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (1)
GLORY: One of the reasons why Sta. Lucia grew a lot of “devotees”, this thrillseeker loves to do emphatic throwdowns to scintillate the crowd. He is also an all-around player that could play multiple positions and can create for his shots.

26 “MONEY” MANNY PANER
GOLD: Mythical 5 (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (2)
GLORY: He was once dubbed as the “Highest paid athlete in PBA history”, this burly center is a problem for his opponents. He has a set of moves to display down the shaded area and yet he is graceful enough to execute them, therefore getting three-point plays.

25 “THE JET” JEFFREY CARIASO
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (4), 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: As the fourth scoring option at the Alaska grand slam squad, Cariaso moved to Mobiline where he became a leader. A deadshot from all angles, the durable Jet continued his game to Tanduay and Coke before returning to Alaska to prepare for his retirement.

24 “MAJOR PAIN” ERIC MENK
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (1), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (3), Finals MVP (3), All-Defensive Team (1)
GLORY: A direct hire from the powerhouse Tanduay PBL squad, Menk would dominate the league with his relentless assault to make good use of the leather. When he moved to Ginebra, he became more popular and would bag a MVP plum.

23 “HELTERSKELTER” JAYJAY HELTERBRAND
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (2), BPC (2), Finals MVP (1), All-Star MVP (2)
GLORY: He is fast, he can score in streaks, he has great court sense and his passing plays are fun to watch. As one half of the feared Fast and Furious tandem, he has moved out of the shadows of Mark Caguioa by winning a MVP award.

22 “THE BULL” NELSON ASAYTONO
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (4), BPC (2), Finals MVP (2)
GLORY: The chinky-eyed mammoth bulldozed his way by leading Swift to various finishes. Moving to San Miguel, he at one point averaged 30 points a game. In two occasions, his actions resulted to runner up finishes for the MVP award.

21 “THE FOURTH QUARTER MAN” JOJO LASTIMOSA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (3), Finals MVP (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: Jolas started his career as a high-flyer that loves to dunk. When he transferred to Alaska, he developed an outside shot and his jumpers often came in bunches come crunch time. Thus, was the reason why he was called the Fourth Quarter Man!

20 “MR. CLUTCH” FRANCIS ARNAIZ
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (1)
GLORY: At one point he averaged 30 points in one conference, alongside Robert Jaworski, they formed a potent backcourt combo. He hits big shots when it matters and he could slice the defense with his penetration skills.

19 “ATOM BOMB” ATO AGUSTIN
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: Injuries to SMB’s key men was enough for Agustin to break to the talent-heavy SMB lineup. He stroke jumpers with relative ease, and it often breaks a rally or thwarts hopes of an opponent to win the game.

18 “THE ROCK” ASI TAULAVA
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Star MVP (2), All-Defensive Team (2)
GLORY: Part of the Fil-Am influx of the late 90’s, this Fil-Tongan giant is currently the top big man of Philippine Basketball. He can impose in both offensive and defensive ends plus his likeable charisma is adored by all.

17 “THE SHOOTER” FREDDIE HUBALDE
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 2 Grand Slams
GLORY: He is a forward known for his sweet scoring touch. He’s also known to knock medium range bank shots as well as his trademark undergoal stabs. Throughout his stint with Crispa, he helped the team bag 13 crowns.

16 “AERIAL VOYAGER” VERGEL MENESES
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (3), All-Star MVP (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: He is a main event guy blessed with the abilities to contort his body to deliver mind-boggling moves. He is also a great shooter and an awesome passer. He is often tagged as a Samboy Lim play-alike… but more durable.

15 “CAPTAIN MARBEL” KENNETH DUREMDES
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (2), Finals MVP (2), All-Star MVP (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: Now the best person to resemble Meneses’ game is Captain Marbel. Duremdes started out as Meneses’ backup at Sunkist before Kenneth was traded to Alaska. The major difference in their game is that Kenneth was more explosive and more direct with his shots while Vergel was more creative.

14 “THE QUICK BROWN FOX” RICKY BROWN
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (5), Mythical 10 (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: Despite standing under the shade of six feet, Brown was one of the better rebounding guards of his time. The former third round pick of the Houston Rockets was the first “localized” Fil-Am to play in the league. In a time where Fil-Ams were considered as a dominant basketball race, his scoring and defense were applauded by all.

13 “DEFENSE MINISTER” JERRY CODINERA
GOLD: Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (5), BPC (2), Finals MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (9), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: The highest ranking player to not win a MVP plum, alongside Alvin Patrimonio, they form an awesome one-two punch for Purefoods. He loves to snare caroms and deflect shots and impose his presence under the boards. He was also the first person to win the Best Player of the Conference Award.

12 “THE THRILLER” WILLIE MILLER
GOLD: MVP (2), Mythical 5 (3), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (2), Finals MVP (2), All-Star MVP (1), All-Defensive Team (1)
GLORY: The only MBA player to become a draft’s top pick is also the first MBA player to win the MVP award (the second is Helterbrand). At 5’10, he is unfazed at an opponent’s height and would go straight to the basket if his opponent underestimates him. He can also score jumpers and grab rebounds and dish passes when asked.

11 “DEMOLITION MAN; RAISE THE ROOF KID” DANNY ILDEFONSO
GOLD: MVP (2), Mythical 5 (2), Mythical 10 (3), BPC (5), Finals MVP (5), All-Star MVP (1)
GLORY: People would think that Danny I. is insanely high on the list. However, most of his accolades came when the Beermen were lording over the league in the 2000-01 season. Plus, despite Seigle’s should be-MVP seasons, Ildefonso completed what Seigle’s frail body failed to do. And getting 5 straight Best Player of the Conference and Finals MVP awards? Come on now!

10 “THE TRIGGERMAN” ALLAN CAIDIC
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (6), Mythical 10 (2), BPC (1), All-Star MVP (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: The Triggerman is perhaps the most feared Filipino since the “PBA” period. While the Caloy Loyzaga-led squad dominated the international ranks, Asian hoopstars know that Caidic has a pretty mean shooting streak when not checked! In the PBA, he is the only local to score 79 points and 17 triples. Leaving him defense-less in the three point area is a mortal sin then.

9 “THE PRIDE OF CAMIGUIN” ABET GUIDABEN
GOLD: MVP (2), Mythical 5 (5), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (1), 2 Grand Slams
GLORY: It was said that he was overshadowed by his more successful teammates in the 70’s. But when the 80’s struck, this Crispa Redmanizer burst into stardom. He played for 8 teams and was twice traded for Ramon Fernandez. While a journeyman late in his career, he had the most number of games, second in most points scored, and had an everlasting mark as one of the best in the league.

8 “THE SCHOLAR” PHILIP CEZAR
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (7), Mythical 10 (1), All-Defensive Team (4), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 2 Grand Slams
GLORY: Cezar could have won more awards had there been more awards in the PBA’s early stages. He is a gifted athlete that has a nose for the ball. He is a strong fan of team play and would rather claim rings than individual accolades. He is dubbed the “Original Tapal King” because of his stingy and unrelenting defense. Last May 15, 1975, his 23 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 blocks made Cezar become the first PBA player to accomplish a triple-double.

7 “TOWER OF POWER” BENJIE PARAS
GOLD: MVP (2), Mythical 5 (5), Mythical 10 (3), BPC (1), Finals MVP (1), All-Star MVP (2), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: He is the only player to win Top Rookie and Top Player honors in the same season. The former UP Maroon was blessed with quickness and power which was poised to make him dominate the paint. He has also a top of the key set shot a la Chris Webber that is mercilessly accurate. While injuries made the middle of his career stagnant, a decade after he won his first MVP, he bested Danny Seigle to repeat as the league’s premier player in 1999.

6 “FLYING A” JOHNNY ABARRIENTOS
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (7), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (2), Finals MVP (2), All-Defensive Team (4), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: The spitfire from FEU impressed a lot with his style that he almost planed to Charlotte to try out for the Hornets. Arguably, the best pointguard to ever play the sport, this diminutive 5’8 point could quarterback the team to victory. He could cream his opponents via his dribble penetrations, step back jumpers, or long toms. In his prime, he topped the league in assists and steals. His career experienced rebirth with the Tigers in the early 2000’s.

5 “THE LIVING LEGEND; THE BIG J” ROBERT JAWORSKI
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (6), Mythical 10 (2), All-Defensive Team (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (2)
GLORY: Perhaps the most popular player to ever grace the sport, this Pied Piper of basketball could make people hate him or adore him. From his glamour boy stint at Toyota to his crowd darling days in Ginebra, the league wouldn’t have experienced this support had not for the Big J’s antics. And as a player, this former playing coach was the first person to score a three-point shot, which he was perfected along with his crisp passes, baseball throws, elbow motions, and animated gameplay.

4 “THE FORTUNE COOKIE” ATOY CO
GOLD: MVP (1), Mythical 5 (9), 25 Best Players of the PBA, 2 Grand Slams
GLORY: Before Allan Caidic, Co was considered as league’s best shooter. Amongst his trademarks are his stop and pop jumper and his turn-around fadeaway shot. Norman Black once uttered that Co would be alone during fast breaks and instead of a lay-up, he would stop and pop a jump shot. No one does it better than F. Co Jr. In his 14 seasons, he was the first person to reach 5,000 and 10,000 points. If there was a three point line in 1975 he would have reached the 1,000-three point mark faster than Allan Caidic and Ronnie Magsanoc.

3 “MR. NICE GUY” BOGS ADORNADO
GOLD: MVP (3), Mythical 5 (7), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (2), 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: The first-ever MVP of the league (and back-to-back MVP of the PBA), the former UST Glowing Goldie has a textbook jump shot that seems unstoppable during the game’s wilting moments. Off-court he is nice, but make no mistake, he is all business once he dons his team uniform. Amongst Crispa’s big names, Bogs was the first legend to leave the team before it disbanded. He captured a MVP plum in 1981 making him the first player to win two MVP titles in two separate teams.

2 “THE CAPTAIN” ALVIN PATRIMONIO
GOLD: MVP (4), Mythical 5 (10), Mythical 10 (1), BPC (3), Finals MVP (1), All-Star MVP (1), 25 Best Players of the PBA
GLORY: He is the second-most popular player after Robert Jaworski. He is a prolific and phenomenal scorer that ranks third in the all-time points list. He plays the power forward position and his version of Hakeem Olajuwon’s “dream shake” is an automatic deuce. He won’t back down in terms of banging bodies in the shaded area. However, during the Fil-Am invasion, he found it hard to play the power forward spot. He forced himself to evolve into a small forward whose three-point shooting has a high accuracy.

1 “EL PRESIDENTE; THE FRANCHISE” RAMON FERNANDEZ
GOLD: MVP (4), Mythical 5 (13), Mythical 10 (3), 25 Best Players of the PBA, RP Olympic/FIBA-World Team Member (1), 1 Grand Slam
GLORY: He is the league’s all-time leader in points, rebounds, blocks and is second all-time in assists and steals. He has won a total of 19 championships, including a grand slam feat as part of the San Miguel Beermen. He is quick, he could dribble, he could rebound, and he could pass the ball as he can play all five positions with relative ease. His signature move is the “elegant shot”, where Don Ramon would use a one-handed running jumper as an offensive weapon. In 1984, playing for Beerhausen, he almost averaged a triple double in that season. He has an uncanny passing ability, a perimeter jump shot, and a different array of offensive moves that looks weird because it was so innovative. Now who’ll say that he doesn’t deserve to be in the top spot?

So this ends the list. Glad to be of service. Now onto the greater things in life such as blogging on Korean dramas with beautiful women or watching Survivor Philippines: Palau (Cris Bolado was defeated by a former man)!

GAME OVER!

Mock this… Noynoy Aquino for President, Jaworski for Vice

Our mock election is over… and mock this… based from 124 voters, for the betterment of Philippine sports, people favor Noynoy Aquino as the President. Jaworski finished second in the ballot, so I nominate him for the vice presidency. Kris Aquino finished 3rd, so she should at least be in the cabinet of her brother. Department of Tourism maybe, or better, Ambassadress of Philippine showbiz, now na.

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Ilang mga katanungan sa PBA

1. Bakit ayaw mag-DUNK ni Kerby Raymundo kahit solong-solo sya?

a. Mas gusto nya mag-shake and bake wan-to-sawa

b. Ala-Patrimonio sya, tamad mag dunk

c. Kala nya guard sya at di 6-6

2. Bakit karamihan ng player hinahawakan ang swelas ng sapatos nya bago mag-freethrow?

a. Style lang para malakas tingnan lumaro, tamo si Bong Alvarez

b. Madumi lang

c. Sabi ng sponsor nya ng sapatos

d. Ok lang yun, masama si Mark Jackson dati, inaasinta ang ring ng kamay nya, mas nakaka-irita lalo yun

3. Bakit laging may bading sa likod ng goal?

a. Bayaran

b. Papansin

c. Para malapit sa players, gustong makahawak ng players pag nag-save-the-ball ang mga players

d. Ah basta, mahilig sila pumwesto sa mga likod likod

4. Bakit si Art Dela Cruz madalas ma-technical kesa kay Uichico?

a. Naiinip sya sa bench

b. Yun ang papel nya, pampainit

c. Naaasar sya sa uniform ng coaching staff ng Ginebra, tingnan nyo ayaw nya mag-tak-in

d. Bagay daw sa may bigote ang na-te-technical

5. Bakit ang bench player pag naka-shoot mabilis bumaba sa depensa?

a. Sinusulit nya ang pawis

b. Pa-impress sa coach

c. Sayang oras saka malamang ilalabas na sya sa dead ball

6. Bakit lahat halos ng magagaling kinuha na ng SMB?

a. Para konti na lang magpapahirap sa kanila

b. Mayaman ang SMB

c. Para talunin sa paramihan ng fans ang Ginebra

d. Para maraming maburong players na magagaling, namumuro na nga si Arwinf na maburo sa SMB

7. Bakit pag si James ang may hawak ng bola malakas ang tilian ng mga babae?

a. Pogi sya eh

b. Swabeng kumilos at laging na bench-fix ang buhok

c. Mga empleyado yun ng cosmetic clinic

d. Di mga babae yun, nagpa-panggap lang na mga babae

8. Bakit pag nagdecide ng dumipensa ng mahigpit ang isang player inaangat nya shorts nya?

a. Sine-seduce nya ang kalaban

b. Naiinitan sya

c. Yun daw ang turo ni Bobby Jose

9. May asawa na ba si Menk?

a. Wala pa

b. Ewan ko

c. Yata

d. Nung dati

10. Bakit di makaporma ang PBA sa International game?

a. Wala na si Jawo

b. Wala na si Patrimonio

c. Wala na si Caidic at Samboy

d. Sadyang maliliit ang pinoy tapos showtime pa kung lumaro, labo

Bili kayo ng Mark Caguioa T-Shirt at ng Barangay Ginebra T-Shirt.

~ALECTO

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