Terrence, who?

The right Terrence for TNT
(Photo courtesy

Looks like TNT Katropa finally found the right Terrence for them, huh?

Eight-year NBA veteran and current PBA Commissioner's Cup TNT super import Terrence Jones, that is. The former Kentucky Wildcat is averaging an impressive 34.5 peg 16.40 rag and 7.7 apg while shooting 41% from deep and 51% from two. Jones' all around brilliance has propelled TNT back to the top of the standings after the team's confusing/ disappointing play the last few conferences.

So here's where TNT is right now: 9-1 win-loss record, managed to do away with disgruntled, supposedly "future" cornerstones Terrence Romeo, Jericho Cruz and RR Garcia, and adding role players like the other Semerad twin and Don Trollano along the way. From the outside looking in, you'd think that they lost a lot of star power in the process, and perhaps they did, but they were able to pretty much simplify their game plan in terms of who is Alpha, Beta and so on.


Jones is Alpha. Clear cut. Beta is Jayson Castro, who was supposed to pass on the heavy burden of carrying the team to younger teammates. Turns out, there's little to no need for that, at least not in import-laden conferences. Castro may not be as Blurry as years back, but he isn't exactly on his last legs either. Now you've got Jones and Castro as the clear 1-2 punch, with other players knowing just when and where to be. Troy Rosario is back to doing Rosario things, and not pretending to be a small forward (hopefully, for international purposes, he can continue working on this). The addition of the other Semerad, and how he complements his twin, is pretty much what Rosario can go back to being. A tough enforcer who works the board on defense, and a sturdy screen setter with enough range to knock down any kick-out passes from the free throw line and out.

So just how far can Jones take TNT?

Honestly, Abueva-dance-gate kidding aside, we feel that he can take TNT all the way to the PBA Finals. The team looks like it is in great rhythm, they celebrate each other's made shots and plays, and  they do not ball watch anymore (which was a really odd sight to see last season, considering TNT has been the PBA's standard bearer for a more Euro-style of play).

Now what we'd really like to know is, how long are we going to keep calling Bong Ravena the "head coach?"

Also, you really mean to tell us that they couldn't simply have done this for Jimmy Alapag back then? You know, something like, he's "head coach" but you've got an import consultant, say a Rajko Toroman at the time, to be in his ear? Really? Really?

Your thoughts?

Trade RXN: Pringle to Ginebra

Author’s note: We simply cannot tell a lie—the most fantasy basketball-related thing that we really invest time and brainpower on are trade reactions. Of what is and what could be, how pieces would fit in a puzzle moving forward and so on. So the minute that we found out about this trade, we just had to drop everything and write a customary RXN piece. Enjoy!

Bagong ka-Barangay
(Photo: ABS CBN Sports)

For what it's worth, NorthPort had a great five-year run with All Star Stanley Pringle running the point. Sure, he spent most of it playing 2nd fiddle to Terrence Romeo, but he pretty much filled the gaps and when he was given the keys to the 'ship' following Romeo's exit, he delivered in grand fashion enough to merit a starting, starring role with Gilas Pilipinas.

Now, Pringle will take his act to Ginebra Ako, where he is expected to lead the charge and inherit the team from aging iron man L.A. Tenorio to form a young, formidable backcourt with Scottie Thompson.



We've always said-- from the old blog to Twitter, that Ginebra usually went only as far as Tenorio would take them. The star point guard is not only the team's best facilitator, but also their best creator both on and off the dribble following Mark Caguioa's journey into semi-retirement. This is why Ginebra Ako is so good when they have Justin Brownlee in the fold, and not as much when they don't.

Enter Pringle, who could easily slide into either 1 or 2. With Tenorio, he'll be the de facto 2 guard- scorer, finisher, long range bomber-- you name it. When Tenorio's on the bench, he could take the lead role or play off of Scottie Thompson (who has yet to be tasked to run the Ginebra offense full-time) or point-forward Joe DeVance.

Just another solid addition to the Ginebra fold that really makes them a better team all around. They have the bigs equipped with mid-range scoring, now they've got their guard of the future.

They lost three guys, two of which are rotation players, with the other one serviceable when healthy.

Which brings us to NorthPort.

In exchange for Pringle, NorthPort received guard Sol Mercado, small forward Kevin Ferrer and power forward Jervy Cruz. On paper, that's not a bad haul.

Mercado has sacrificed a lot to fit Ginebra's system, giving up his touches if only to allow bigs Japeth Aguilar and Greg Slaughter to operate a bit more. He has openly welcomed coming off the bench for the great Coach Tim Cone, and has willingly played whatever role was asked of him-- be it scorer, stopper (he tries) or energy guy. There's no question on our minds that Mercado should start sooner rather than later for NorthPort as a capable replacement for Pringle. Maybe not as explosive scoring-wise, but still solid enough to put up good numbers.

Big man Cruz is reunited with his 2006 UST championship coach, and we sincerely hope that he finds the minutes this time around. We have seen flashes, but all in all Cruz has found it hard to be as dominant in the pros as he was in college-- blame it on the competition being taller, and bigger, and his opting to trim down a bit. When he's healthy and given minutes, Cruz is quite competent around the paint-- just don't ask Coach Yeng Guiao. But in an import laden conference, given NorthPort's line-up, we're not really expecting a lot from Cruz.

Now here's the interesting part.

The young tiger, the former Tiger King (was he ever officially coronated? Or is the title Alj-- I kid, I kid) Kevin Ferrer.

At this point, it's really to early to give up on Ferrer. He's had his moments with Ginebra, but for the most part he has looked like a lazier, more disengaged version of Mac Baracael. You know, another great college player who could play two-way basketball and had great range? Yeah, him. Ferrer's the new Baracael, only worse. While we wouldn't really question his work ethic (pretty sure he's a gym rat like the rest of them), we're basically making that whole statement based on what we have seen in his professional career on the court. When he's hot, he has unlimited range. His high release paired with his long arms make him almost unguardable. Problem is, he doesn't seem to care about moving his feet to get free or has a pet dribble to go to-- things he could have and should have learned from Ginebra veteran, textbook shooter/ scorer Jeffrei Chan (who is unfortunately injured) during their time together.

What's nice here is that, Ferrer will definitely get a chance to shine playing behind Sean Anthony at the 3 spot (or maybe even play together come Philippine Cup). Here's to wishing that Ferrer finally gets 'it' and shows his true worth under his old coach Pido.

Trade grade:

Ginebra Ako: A (they got Pringle!)
NorthPort: B (should've gone for draft picks but hey)

Your thoughts?

Make a stand

Standhardinger: Out of place
(Photo: Inquirer Sports)

The San Miguel Beermen are off to another mediocre start to the 2nd conference of yet another PBA season following a championship run.

Tell us if you've heard this story before: the Beermen put up a world-class, titan-like basketball display in the Philippine Cup versus worthy adversaries, only to look like mere mortals as their superstar core of multi-time MVP Junemar Fajardo, Alex Cabagnot, Arwind Santos, Chris Ross and Marcio Lassiter are either saddled by injuries or play below par owing to fatigue.

But isn't this why they got Christian Standhardinger and this season, the flamboyant Terrence Romeo? Management did a heck of a job in fortifying their 2nd unit, throw in the help of a solid import in Charles Rhodes, the improved play of Matt Roster and Von Pessumal and the bruising Kelly Nabong, and you pretty much have a unit that could start in the Playoffs for any other team.

On paper, that is.

So far, the biggest disappointment has to be Standhardinger-- he of mighty FIBA Asia credentials, a thoroughbred who was primed to become Fajardo's bosom buddy in the post the way Marlou Aquino and Dennis Espino flourished together with the Santa Lucia Realtors a decade or so ago.

The Filipino-German has found it hard to get solid minutes under Coach Leo Austria, and when he does, he mostly plays a garbage man's role to Fajardo. There's playing the weak side, then there's being asked to simply get out of the way-- Standhardinger appears to be playing more to the latter. What's odd is, Standhardinger can't seem to post-up PBA competition the way he is able to awkwardly manoeuvre in the paint versus FIBA bigs to get scoring position.

If you were to ask us, we'd openly accept that the SMB core guys, who all play at least 31 mpg, sit the 2nd conference (or maybe have their minutes cut down to the mid 20s mark) and have the 2nd unit take over. That's Standhardinger, Romeo, Rosser, Pessumal and an import, Rhodes. You simply cannot convince us that that unit can't get the team to the Playoffs at least, with Fajardo, Ross and Lassiter chipping in from time to time.

It's just unfortunate how SMB fans, who have already grown accustomed to this 2nd conference dip shoot down the rest of their roster if only to save their core starters' reputation. As though the Beermen's 2nd unit were composed of guys who'd be best of playing in minor leagues.

The only probable and logical reason we can come up with, why this has been tolerated for so long, is that Coach Leo and or management is mindful of their core starters' numbers, minutes and salary. They get paid a lot, so best to really get their money's worth, right?

We're not asking Standhardinger to suddenly average 20-10 in lieu of Fajardo, simply, for him (and the rest of the guys) to not look so lost out there on offense and not hesitate to maybe take a few shots here and there.

Your thoughts?

Out of control

A moment of peace
(Photo: PhilStar.com)

We failed Calvin Abueva.

The Phoenix Fuel Masters, the Alaska Aces, his teammates past and present, his coaches, his inner circle, and most specially, his fans.

The clothesline on Terrence Jones, the disgusting display with a female fan who turned out to be an opposing player's partner, the on court antics and bravado that is starting to spill out off the court based on rumours and his semi-private life which became a bit of a circus late last year-- which we never really cared much for (if you've been reading our blog and Twitter long enough, you'd know that we never really bothered about who's sleeping with who).

We have empowered Calvin Abueva to the point wherein he thinks that his antics are acceptable. There's physical Filipino basketball, and then there's the ugly, brash, bully-ball reserved for the streets where if the player can't beat you in the game, he'd simply just go out there and try to hurt you. Basketball hooligans. Fake thuggery. He sure as hell wasn't doing a lot of bully-ball when they faced San Miguel last conference and the champions had enough of him and simply put Kelly Nabong in the game.

Abueva the person needs help, mentally.

He is a great basketball talent, he is athletic, he hustles, he scraps, he is a game-changer.

But year after year, we see him getting out of control. Coach Louie Alas and Coach Topex Robinson appear to have him on a very long leash. Coach Alex Compton had him on one too, save for Alaska's classy owner Mr. Wilfred Uytengsu who finally (probably) put his foot down and prioritised integrity over winning dirty.

He says that he reacted to the female fan who was hurling insults at him. How? By performing lewd acts for the public to see? Is this what a grown man, a father, would like for kids, his own, to see and emulate?

Fans should also be held accountable of course and display proper decorum, but the league should know better and hold seminars for their players to NOT react or at least have self-control. Abueva needs counselling. Anger management issues. We're not even entirely sure if he has anger issues, it's just the way he's wired it seems.

You can be tough on the court, but you can also be a gentleman off it.

The hit on Jones was warranted. He got hit on the nuts. But only after he stood over Jones who he knocked down in the first place. A hit for a hit.

But instead of going after Jones, he disguises his revenge in a cowardly basketball play. He yells at the referees to watch him. Then he goes on and chases the guy on a loose ball and blindsides him with a clothesline from behind.

From behind. He hit Jones. Jones hits back. He waits and sneaks in a clothesline from the back because you know, he got what was coming to him and now he needs his payback, macho man style.

The indefinite suspension is warranted. Ban him for a year, maybe even longer. Let him think it over. Let him heal. Maybe find peace first. The PBA needs to be strong and set an example, no matter how talented the player is.

Your thoughts on Abueva and his indefinite suspension?

Genesis

Here we go
(Photo: ABS CBN News)

In 2015, Bobby Ray Parks, Jr. had a choice to make: prepare for the PBA Draft, which has been nothing short of a birth right given his rich pedigree and building accomplishments, or try for the NBA Draft and see how far his basketball skills were to take him.

He chose the latter, though he went undrafted and hardly made an impact in the Development Leagues. It took him four years of playing for Alab Pilipinas in the ASEAN Basketball League (where he is the reigning back-to-back-to-back ABL Local MVP) and some for Gilas Pilipinas, before he finally opted to apply for the PBA Draft wherein he was selected 2nd overall- something that probably had more to do with off-court politics than actual basketball skill.

Because let's all be honest about it, Parks, Jr. is the most polished basketball player we have ever seen since Willie Miller and Zandro Limpot, Jr.

Name a basketball move, be it for a guard or big, and Parks, Jr. probably has it nailed all the way down to the fundamentals.



We've been hard on Parks, Jr. on our old blog and on Twitter (where he blocked us following that disappointing NU-UST series), but it was never about because he was making incorrect plays on the court. It was more like, we expected more. Because of the skillset. Because of the proven track record.

The knock on Parks, Jr. is that he doesn't play with fire. With intensity. We see flashes, but in a full 48-minute game, you see him going through the motions. But with so much ease that you'd be wanting for more. The shots are effortless. Getting into scoring position for him is easy-picking. The only time we've ever seen him being locked up, is that NU-UST playoffs wherein Kevin Ferrer was blatantly holding on to his wrists Tyron Lue-Allen Iverson style (that the refs were not calling, and from what we can remember he injured that same wrist, which ultimately led to a subpar game for his standards).

Our knock on Parks, Jr., going into the NBA Draft, is that he didn't have any advantage going in. Versus Filipino competition-- slower, smaller, he was an A+, versus guys who were about the same size but more explosive than he was, well, there's a reason why he couldn't crack a starting spot in the D-League. He was a tweener. He has the smarts to run point, but not the range, speed or strength. He's not a natural explosive scorer, not a catch-and-shoot guy, so you couldn't put him at the 2. He plays more like a natural 3, and vs international competition where 3 guys are anywhere from 6"6 to 6"9, he's just a bit too short/ not as strong.

We said that he needed to zero in on a skill, and hard. Scoring? Passing? Running? Something. To an elite level. Just enough to get noticed.

But on the Asian front-- let's not lie to ourselves. In South East Asia? Parks, Jr. is better than 90% of the field. You have seen some of the best Asian-Americans/ Foreigners and how they were tasked to match up with Parks, Jr. and the Filipino made them all look like fools on the court.

Now with the Blackwater Elite, we are starting to see an even more polished game from Parks, Jr. Though a rookie, he is arguably the most battle-tested among his peers. The way he handles himself in games, the way he plays and 'controls' the match-- had he been playing since the Philippine Cup he'd probably be a lock for the Rookie of the Year award as early as July already. The way he is able to make Allein Maliksi and Roi Sumang, both one-trick pony scorers, look even better on the court, and how he is able to revive the play of Mac Belo-- Parks, Jr. is an elite player for sure.

Sitting here after years of frustration over our love-hate relationship with Parks, Jr.'s basketball odyssey, we could definitely say this: "Parks, Jr. is the real deal, and he is worth the wait."

Don't call it a comeback.

Because we never left.

The 2018 PBA Draft [RXN]

CJ Perez to Columbian
(Image courtesy of ABS CBN Sports)

Our Mock Draft came up a bit short (read: this writer forgot to post it!) so without further adieu, here's our reaction piece on yesterday's PBA Draft:

1. Columbian – CJ Perez, PG, 6”1 
What we love about Perez’ game is that he was not satisfied by being tagged as the “Baby Beast”—a tribute given his game’s (and background’s) similarity to Phoenix’s Calvin Abueva. No, he went from being that energy guy who can do it all a.k.a. ‘rebound ko, baba ko’ and transformed himself to 1) a slasher and scorer with a legitimate perimeter jumpshot and 2) a point guard who can make great reads and passes that are not a byproduct of the offense (like a dribble drive that makes lead combo guards look monstrous when in all, they’re simply kicking out the ball to guys who are locked into certain areas on the floor and not moving at all). While he may not be the best talent available in this year’s Draft, not a lot of fans would argue against his selection. Columbian would be complete and utter fools if they do not hand him the keys outright.

2. Blackwater – Bobby Ray Parks, Jr., SF, 6”3 
The best available talent in this year’s draft. He has the size. He has the handles. He has the range. He has the experience. Bobby Ray Parks, Jr. was born to be in the PBA. At 25, he’s already reaching his prime as a basketball player. Parks, Jr. has been so good, that the only flaw we could really point out is how sometimes, we feel like he could do more- when in reality, the numbers that he puts up on a daily basis wherever he plays, are good enough to win league MVP today. Sure, we want him to be more aggressive. Sure, we wish he’d put in more time in the gym and lose some baby fat. But make no mistake about it, you’d be very hard-pressed to find guys who are better than Parks, Jr. at the 2-3 spots in the PBA. We also appreciate how he’s played off the ball for Alab Pilipinas under Jimmy Alapag, if only to teach him other ways to be effective (he played off it for the most part last year but still won ABL Local MVP). Unfortunately, we’d have to wait until the 2nd/ 3rd conference to see his true worth.

3. NorthPort – Robert Bolick, SG, 6”1 
Bolick, if are to believe the NorthPort camp, is a Terrence Romeo replacement minus the long hair, flash and excessive ball-handling. He can definitely log in some minutes at the point, though his handles may not be as good versus a Chris Ross or Jayson Castro. What you like about Bolick is that he’s ready to score and willing to do anything to win, he can play off the ball while still being effective—which is what NorthPort really needs since we expect star guard Stanley Pringle to dominate the offense. A bit of an overlap with Jonathan Gray in terms of what they bring to the table, and maybe a concern defensively should the pair play alongside Pringle.

No Drama

Jordan Clarkson, Pilipinas # 6
(Photo courtesy of Rappler.com)

Save for the pre-Asian Games run wherein it really felt like boardroom nerds just had to get themselves in the limelight somehow, this current edition and run of the Philippines' men's basketball team is exactly how we want our team: no frills, no TV specials (until after the job is done) and definitely no other name or brand but PILIPINAS shining through.

A no frills coach who surprisingly has been off-television character, saying all the right things and keeping most of his thoughts to himself. A team that has been forged by fire, reinforced by players with no hidden agendas (like a wishful thinking of maybe there are NBA scouts watching and that this could be their shot at the big time). And the whole PBA, suddenly in unison after their dirty laundry was brought out in the open (by design or not), united for a cause.

So please forgive us, SMART, Chooks-to-go, and whichever brand wants to be plastered on the jerseys.

Trade RXN: Standhardinger to SMB

Soon to be unleashed.

Ah, the controversial deal that helped open a can of worms which could possibly a) end the Chito Narvasa reign , b) force PBA teams to bolt and or c) earn us a FIBA suspension.

The cellar-dwelling Kia Picanto opted to send the rights to their 2017 1st round draft pick to powerhouse San Miguel in exchange for Rashawn Mccarthy, JayR Reyes, Ronald Tubid and a 2019 1st round draft pick. The Beermen then wasted little time in making it known and eventually using that pick on 6"8 Filipino-German Christian Standhardinger who held his own and averaged near double-doubles in FIBA play.

Let's break this trade down, shall we?

#NarvasaResign

Man on fire
(photo courtesy of Rappler,com)

It has been a while, and we are quite thankful that there are some of you who still patronize this page and digest whatever understanding of Philippine basketball we have to offer despite the dwindling number of entries.

We have apologized quite a few times already, so there is no point in adding yet another paragraph just to do so. Long story short: life happens.

That being said, PBA Commissioner Chito Narvasa has recently come under fire after 1) approving a "lopsided" trade that sent the 2017 PBA Draft 1st pick Christian Standhardinger to the San Miguel Beermen and 2) revealing that it was TNT personnel Magnum Membrere who processed Standhardinger's Draft Application, which put TNT under a bad light obviously.

2017 PBA Mock Draft 2.0

Number 2? Or Number 1?
(Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

12. TNT - Louie Vigil, SF, 6"3
A bit under-rated, Vigil is a legitimate PBA 3 who can play both ends of the court. In college, he has shown that he can fill in the gaps when asked to defer to his superstar seniors AND also step up to plate as team alpha. TNT just hasn't been the same since they dealt Larry Fonacier and blindly expected Matt Ganuelas Rosser to fill in that void (they traded him for point man RR Garcia which was brilliant). This move also saves Troy Rosario from looking stupid trying to learn the small forward spot on the fly when he's a natural stretch 4.

11. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel - Julien Sergent, SF, 6"3
Sergent has all the tools that coach Tim Cone just loves to work with; Ginebra doesn't need him to contribute right away, so he can be used as a practice player to help him develop into either a stopper (which he showed flashes of for DLSU) or a finisher around the rim. That small forward practice battle with Aljon Mariano, Kevin Ferrer AND Art dela Cruz should be crazy fun.

10. TNT - Jett Manuel, 6"0
Ryan Reyes is old. UP is Team MVP's latest project. Everything just fits. TNT needs to reload shooter-wise and adding a scorer like Manuel gives them just that.

2017 PBA Mock Draft

Dragonfire. (Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

The names are in. Let's go with version 1.

12. Ginebra - Louie Vigil, SF, 6"3
Because you know... Ginebra's building their own UST team with Aljon Mariano and Kevin Ferrer already in the fold. Seriously though, Vigil is a smart and efficient player to have as a backup for Ferrer and Mariano at the 3 spot. He has good PBA size and the tv-friendly looks. There are other guys like Onuwobre that we'd want to go higher, but based on need... Ginebra doesn't really have much room for another big man while Jamil Sherrif, arguably this draft's best natural PG, is a bit too short with no range for the PBA style IMHO.

11. San Miguel Beermen - Julien Sergent, SF, 6"3

Sergent had spurts for DLSU wherein he really did look like a solid, defensive ace. However, he wasn't being used as much which we always found odd. The Beermen are currently stacked on all fronts, with the one opening being at the 3 spot with Arwind Santos on a bit of a decline (age) and Matt Rosser still trying to fit in. Sergent won't take MGR's spot right away, but if he sticks to his strengths (defense, speed, mobility) he could crack the roster as a serviceable role player.

10. TNT - Rey Nambatac, SG, 5"10
They have a plethora of bigs. What they need is a shot creator who can take the load off Jayson Castro. Sure, Nambatac's name doesn't really hit you like a Jeron Teng or Kiefer Ravena would, but if there's one thing about the former Letran Knight-- he doesn't shy away from taking the big shots. What's nice about Nambatac is he also crashes the boards and plays sturdy defense which makes him a possible candidate to one day succeed Ryan Reyes.


9. Star Hotshots - Lervin Flores, PF, 6"4 
Let's face it. To this day, Marc Pingris and Rafi Reavis are still the team's best big men. Which means, Ian Sangalang hasn't exactly lived up to what was expected (following his bouts with different injuries), while Kyle Pascual, Rodney Brondial and Aldrech Ramos are more stretch bigs than guys who can manufacture their own shots in the post. Flores is another mobile big, though based on what we've seen he is a bit more competent down low.

FIBA Asia Cup: Cursed

Not enough
(Photo credit: FIBA.com)

Against the South Korean men's basketball team, our Gilas Pilipinas (then, now... and the good Lord Almighty forbid, forever) appears to be cursed. There is just no other way to explain it.

We had a solid outing, our team shot 45% from the field, 44% from deep. We had 15 turnovers, sure, but that is still quite a respectable number when the opponent committed only three less. But what the hell- they shot 67% the entire night.

They shot 76% from three point territory, missing all but five of their 21 attempts. This was God's way of telling Magoo Marjon and friends to quit yapping about the whole "and the curse of Korea is about to be broken!" This was the Korean's way of telling us "that was 2013, this is 2017, get with the program."

FIBA Asia Cup: Thoughts on Gilas 3-0 start

PUSO

Three to nil.

Those are three wins over China, Iraq and Qatar in what was deemed by FIBA as the "group of death." Fortunately for us; China missed a few key players (though we were also without 3x PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo AND naturalized reinforcement Andray Blatche), Iraq's still developing its young basketball program while Qatar is rebuilding.

We are not trying to take anything away from our Gilas team, because they fought tooth and nail for each one of those three victories. We are just saying that for the time being, it appears that the stars are aligning to our favor after years of heartbreak and close shaves.


First, let us all thank Chot Reyes for coming back and spearheading this program. He could've walked away and kept to his corporate role. He could've said "no thanks" after all the (unwarranted) backlash the last time he coached Gilas.

Thoughts on Gilas - Jones Cup 2017

The Future
(Photo credit: FoxSports.Ph)

We told you that it might take a while before we returned to blogging, didn't we?

The day job (which basically extends all the way into the night) is going strong. Those who are in the know hopefully understand why we're unable to provide any updates here or on Twitter as much as before. Long story short, we didn't want to write anything that we weren't invested in 100%. We've seen a few games here and there, but nothing quite up to par that will help us form strong arguments.

Still, while we couldn't quite sit down in front of the television (literally) to break down PBA games, we simply couldn't miss out on Gilas Pilipinas' campaign in the 2017 William Jones Cup. Here are a few things that we saw, a few conclusions, commendations and a little bit of that good old cool glass of Haterade.

1. Kiefer Ravena, The PointS Guard
While Gilas head coach Chot Reyes opted to start lightning quick Jio Jalalon, they played their best with the slower, more methodical Ravena running the show. While we're still unconvinced that Ravena can keep in step with PBA-level point guards, his feel for the game is unparalleled: correct passes, great reads and just sets the table up nicely. What or where Ravena is still lacking is finding the right balance between facilitating and dominating. For the most part, Gilas did quite well when Ravena opted to put his head down and call his own number. They say he's transitioning to PG because that's what is required for him to chase his NBA dream (and maybe even against PBA competition). We say that he's too talented to be penciled in a certain position, and deferring to lesser equipped teammates would simply be a waste.

Trade rxn: Too many to mention

When NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao said that he was considering trading a few players to form the most competitive team possible; he damn well meant every single word.

The fiery head coach and his team figured in several trades that took place during the PBA All Star break that involved four other squads. There were some surprises-- considering the names that were included, and here we try our very best to make sense out of the Guiao-manufactured madness.

Meralco: Garvo Lanete
The Bolts decided to let go of the promising Grey (who kept opening eyes with his efficient play despite the obvious lack of hype and athleticism) to acquire former Gilas Cadet hand Lanete. Lanete comes in to possibly re-start his amateurs superstar partnership with the Bolts' lead point guard Baser Amer who is having a breakout in the PBA Commissioner's Cup. The move will also allow the Bolts to focus on rookie Ed Daquioag as their premier slasher/ creator coming off the bench, with Amer and Lanete as their lead 1-2 players from here on out.
Grade: B

Trade RXN: RR for MGR

Garcia to TNT, Rosser to SMB
(Photo credit: Gilas)

We never thought we'd see the day wherein San Miguel and TNT would see eye to eye and broker an even trade.

Hey #WeArePBA, also, what a time to be alive.

RR Garcia (18mpg 7ppg 1rpg 2apg) was supposed to be the next "great SMB point guard." It is a role that currently belongs to Chris Ross, after aging star Alex Cabagnot has made the full transition to shooting guard and backup Brian Heruela was found lacking. He showed flashes in the Philippine Cup, his first conference with SMB after being acquired from the Star Hotshots, but has obviously lost favor with the team.

Matt Ganuelas-Rosser (19-6-3-3), like Garcia, was also supposed to be the "next big thing" for TNT. Here is a 6"5 athlete who could run like a gazelle, dunk over the opposition, and basically do anything and everything that is required to win games. Only, he doesn't. Or he does, but only up to a certain point which, in his 3rd/4th season in, tells coaches and fans alike that perhaps he has hit a glass ceiling.

This trade could be a blessing for both.

Road rage

Time to man up.
(Photo credit: Spin.ph)

We don't know about you, but it would be wise to be on a "Yeng Guiao watch" from here on out.

The NLEX Road Warriors are still winless in the ongoing PBA Commissioner's Cup despite Guiao's old hand Wayne Chism's stellar numbers (39mpg 26ppg 17rpg 2apg) all across the boards. Last conference, we gave NLEX a pass because it was Guiao's first with the team. Now, well, we aren't really seeing any improvements.

Hell, they seem to have gotten worse.

#ManokNgBayan

Photo credit: Inquirer.net

Following today's PBA All Star game featuring the Luzon All Stars vs Gilas Pilipinas selection; Gilas head coach Chot Reyes finally named his SEABA 12 man line-up which will defend homecourt this coming May 12 to 18.

The 12 men are: Calvin Abueva, Japeth Aguilar, Raymond Almazan, Andray Blatche, Junemar Fajardo, Jio Jalalon, Allein Maliksi, RR Pogoy, Terrence Romeo, Troy Rosario, Jayson Castro William and Matthew Wright.

Honestly, we love this nice mix of youth, spunk and skill, moving forward. There were a lot of question marks surrounding some of the names that were included in the pool-- primarily because Gilas was "limited" by the "1 player per PBA team" mandate, but Coach Chot was still able to form what we feel is quite a competitive line-up that can even go as far as competing in the next FIBA tournament.

Top heavy

Championship-hungry
(Photo credit: abs-cbn.com)

While the league is having its PBA All Star Break, allow this writer to make his (hopefully) triumphant return with this "catch-up" entry.

So far, we've seen a lot of impressive performances from most of the PBA imports: Alaska's Corey Jefferson and Phoenix's Jameel McKay are lighting it up while Blackwater's Greg Smith is beasting the boards. Ginebra's Justin Brownlee is also low-key doing his thing, being the most versatile of the lot and leading the imports in terms of sharing the basketball and keeping his teammates involved.

As for the locals, 3x PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo, Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo and other bonafide stars have taken the backseat as expected. The guards: Castro, Romeo and Alex Cabagnot have managed to stay afloat, thanks to their passing skills. Still, it's quite clear that teams are relying heavily on their imports this conference to help get them into better PBA Playoffs seating.

Perpetual

Greatness within reach
(Photo credit: mb.com.ph)

Ladies and gentlemen, here are your PBA Philippine Cup champions and Perpetual Trophy winners, the San Miguel Beermen!

Alex Cabagnot missed having his beautiful nose fixed for this. Marcio Lassiter deferred to everyone else when everyone knew that he is the team’s best shooter. Arwind Santos stopped trying to look like a superstar and just did a lot of the dirty work. Chris Ross just kept providing the Beermen with the “larong mahirap” hustle and energy. Three-time PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo was happy to just put up “pedestrian” numbers instead of Kraken-like ones for the good of the team.

Coach Leo Austria came under fire, for some reason, because he wasn’t using his bench enough—even when they were winning and almost came out of the elimination round unscathed.
Speaking of the bench, they were all just happy to be there and do whatever was asked. No one was going on social media, no young up and comer was posting “play me or trade me” photos on Instagram. They all simply bought into what Coach Leo was preaching.

And it was all worth it.

Ganado pa din

Just a little bit more
(Photo credit: interaksyon.com)

Congratulations, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel!

You may not have won the PBA Philippine Cup title, but as far as Coach Tim Cone and the "Cone Era" goes, you guys are still on the right path. One championship, two finals conference appearances in only four conferences. With those two appearances being played minus your cornerstone, 7"0 Greg Slaughter. That says a lot about the team, where it is right now, and where it is headed.

So don't fret. Us "haters" will try our best to milk the whole "kang kong" rib, because once Slaughter comes back and Coach Tim makes a few more adjustments, it might as well be our very last time to make a laughing stock out of you guys.

Give us a break, you already outnumber us non-Ginebra fans a million to one, so anytime we can get a rib in we will.

1st runner-up.

That's not so bad.

Never say die

Ano na, Coach?
(Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

Kung may pagkakataon man na patunayan ng Barangay Ginebra San Miguel sa mga tiga hanga nila at maging sa sarili nila ang katagang "Never say die," eto na yun.

Isang talo na lang, tapos na ang lahat. Bubuhos ang beer. Perpetual Trophy para sa San Miguel Beermen, isa na namang malaking kwento ng tagumpay sa sinusulat pa lamang na biag ni 3x PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo.

Kailangan ng Ginebra manalo ng tatlong sunod upang magkampyon. Kinailangan nilang manalo ng dalawang sunod kontra ang Alaska Aces nitong PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals. Kinailangan nilang bumawi matapos mahulog ng 0-2 kontra Star Hotshots sa semifinals. Ngayon, kailangan nilang bumangon muli, Never Say Die, para manalo ng 3-4.

Pero paano?

Homecourt advantage

Dream BIG.
(Photo credit: smartgilasbasketball.com)

The dream has become so much bigger than simply ruling the South East Asian region. The dream is now to conquer Asia in hopes of making it into the global basketball conversation.

Call the upcoming SEABA tournament slated from May 12 to 18 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum as phase one.

We already know who is part of the 24-man Gilas pool:

The Cadets, who are mandated to suit up:
1. Carl Bryan Cruz (Alaska)
2. Kevin Ferrer (Ginebra)
3. Mac Belo (Blackwater)
4. Von Pessumal (Globalport)
5. Russel Escoto (Mahindra)
6. Ed Daquioag (Meralco)
7. Alfonzo Gotladera (NLEX)
8. Matthew Wright (Phoenix)
9. Mike Tolomia (Rain or Shine)
10. Arnold Van Opstal (San Miguel)
11. Jio Jalalon (Star)
12. RR Pogoy (TNT)

The agony of defeat

Off to a good start
(Photo credit: pba.online.net)

You wake up at the sound of your morning alarm, ending your peaceful slumber that granted you a few hours’ rest. Today you should be getting ready for the PBA Finals press conference, to be held at some fancy buffet restaurant, ready to trade pleasantries and inside barbs with your opponents and the press. Today should’ve been the day that you take one step closer to greatness.

But it isn’t.

Instead you sit and sulk, wanting to avoid any sports replays or news. You’ll catch the game later, and will definitely attend your next team practice. But today just isn’t the day.

PBA Ph C F: 1 San Miguel V 7 Ginebra

Ginebra is on the rise
(Photo credit: sports5.ph)

Call it a date with destiny.

When Tim Cone was transplanted from his grand slam throne with the Star Hotshots to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, expectations of turning the franchise around and multiple title runs were the norm. Everyone agreed that if anyone could make Ginebra’s giants, 7”0 Greg Slaughter and 6”9 Japeth Aguilar, regular fixtures in the PBA Playoffs and Finals it could be no one else but Cone.

And following that same logic, a fantasy showdown was born: Cone’s Ginebra versus the league’s current crème dela crème; San Miguel Beer and its own giant: the reigning 3x PBA MVP, 6”10, Junemar Fajardo.

Last season, San Miguel won its 2nd straight PBA Philippine Cup title which further cemented the supremacy of its local cast while Ginebra, only three conferences into the Cone Era, ended the season with a title of its own.

Trade RXN: Jazul for Enciso

RJ Jazul to Phoenix
(Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

Well that's one way to keep yourself busy in between conferences.

After sending big man Prince Caperal to the Mahindra Floodbusters for rookie Joseph Eriobu, the Phoenix Fuel Masters have also decided to ship Simon Enciso to the Alaska Aces for veteran gunner RJ Jazul.

On the surface, it sounds a bit like the Aces won the trade since Enciso is coming off a great start to the season with averages of 34mpg 13ppg 3rpg 4apg while Jazul has mostly been the designated shooter off the bench. However, a closer look would show that Jazul isn't that far behind with his 24/ 10/ 3/ 3 statline.

So why make the trade?

Trade RXN: Caperal for Eriobu

Keep an eye on this one.

The Mahindra Floodbusters have agreed in principle to send 6"4 wing rookie Joseph Eriobu to the Phoenix Fuel Masters in exchange for 6"6 big Prince Caperal. We ask that you keep an eye on these two gentlemen, since we believe that they are poised to become solid and serviceable PBA players in the next few years.

Give the Floorbusters and Coach Chris Gavina an A for acquiring Caperal, just weeks removed from losing prized Gilas pick Russel Escoto to a knee injury. Caperal is a solid big man who rebounds, defends, knocks down 15 to 17 ft jumpers AND runs the floor. Though we don't expect Caperal to suddenly improve his Fuel Masters' averages of 19 minutes, 6 points and 6 rebounds, he will be a great building block moving forward. If Caperal plays his cards right, he could easily start at the 4/5 spot should Coach Gavina go big together with an import. Then, once Escoto returns, you are looking at quite the tall and promising frontline.

Remember the name

Lethal Star
(Photo credit to the owner)

Paul Lee has always been special.

It was just rather unfortunate that it took being traded to the Star Hotshots for everyone to finally take notice. Real basketball fans know who Lee is and how cold-blooded he is, specially in the clutch. But the casual fans, those who see the points and face value more than the game? Those who don't pay attention to stats and efficiency and all the other nerdy things that make basketball so much fun? Not so much.

How could they cheer for a guy who goes by the moniker "Angas ng Tondo" anyway? Bald head, goat-tee, gangsta-look and all? How could they cheer a guy who barely smiles to the crowd or even notices his own fans, casually shaking-off game winners like it's just something he does regularly, like breathing? Check the tape. Most guys would throw a fist, howl, scream, run to the crowd and go "THIS IS MY HOUSE"-- anything.

Lee?

#putakalma

PBA Ph C SF: 3 Star V 7 Ginebra

Galit galit muna, parekoy
(Photo credit: philstar.com)

Finally, the marketing genius that is "Manila Classico" can finally be able to live up to its own hype.

When the term was brilliantly coined, it was driven more because of the growing popularity of the Star Hotshots (re: Purefoods) which was slowly challenging that of Barangay Ginebra's. Sure, Star always had fans, but it was more because they always had TV matinee idol-looking players who could play very well and resonated more with a specific audience. Ginebra? They're the people's team. They're the team that went from chanting "Diego" towards a heated opponent before showering him with "Pogi" when he joined them later in his career.

But they were never really rivals. Far from it. Star was winning titles left and right and was a perennial contender. Ginebra, was, well, Ginebra.

The script was flipped when Ginebra landed Star's grand slam coach Tim Cone and started putting the pieces together. They won a title in Cone's first year, they're now being taken seriously as a defensive unit. Star suffered a brief setback last season (re: the Jason Webb experiment) but appear to be back on track under new head coach Chito Victolero. So now, we can talk rivalry. Because Ginebra appears to be building towards a new dynasty to challenge San Miguel, while Star still has the grand slam core (a very young one at that) while adding famed Ginebra-killer Paul Lee.

Oh you think we're going over board with the "Ginebra Killer" tag? YouTube: Paul Lee + Ginebra.

You're welcome.

PBA Ph C SF 1 San Miguel v 4 TNT

Country's best players 1A, 1B
(Photo credit: pba-online.net)

Thank you Alex Cabagnot.

This corporate rivalry that has spilled on the hardcourt badly needed that "arrow" of yours, if only because Team MVP (through TNT Katropa) wasn't holding up its end of the bargain. While San Miguel Beer kept winning title after title, post-Chot Reyes TNT started to pile up the losses and early playoff exits.

Even their last title romp, over Rain or Shine just a few conferences back, can be marked with an asterisk because San Miguel's key players were hurt during that same conference so they can never really lay claim supremacy. Also, then TNT import Ivan Johnson simply went berserk against the whole league (in a good, basketball way of course)

So yeah, shoot those arrows and post those tweets. Keep them coming (because we sure as hell know that most of the guys on the roster, specially from TNT, won't really look to exchange violent, non-basketball related blows). Would love to see Gabby Espinas and Ranidel de Ocampo get into it. Maybe Arwind Santos and Kelly Williams. Ross' pesky defense versus Castro's genius.
Light up the fireworks.

Here are the match-ups:

PBA Ph C QF: 1 San Miguel v 8 Rain or Shine

Lassiter v Cruz will be key
(Photo credit: pba-online.net)

Will San Miguel waltz into the next round or will Rain or Shine prove (to itself, above all) that there is indeed life after Yeng Guiao and Paul Lee?

There are a lot of questions going on between this odd pairing, mostly because RoS on paper is a much better team than their lowly seeding would suggest. Can they beat San Miguel? History says they can, and on paper, while they do not have anyone standing on equal footing as San Miguel's 3x PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo and his backup Yancy de Ocampo, they are quite tall over-all.

Like, average height of roughly 6"3 spread around, tall AND wide.

Let's review the match-ups:

PBA PhC QF: 2 Alaska vs 7 Ginebra

NGANGA
(Photo credit: Sports5)

No Quit Squad v Never Say Die.

Ginebra is not the team you'd want to face in the Playoffs, despite their low seeding. However, Alaska is also not the team that you'd want to face on the same stage, unless you're San Miguel and pretty much own their asses until proven otherwise.

So here is what we know: Alaska beat Ginebra 101-86 in a game wherein Japeth Aguilar, who is having a great conference so far, had some drama which resulted in him being disciplined by Coach Tim Cone by way of coming off the bench. This move backfired somewhat, because Aguilar dutifuly responded by scoring 12 points on 10 shots with ZERO rebounds in 23 minutes.
ZERO rebounds for a 6"9 guy who is unmatched by the other team.

Some things never change. Lol.

PBA PhC QF: 3 Star v 6 Phoenix

Hotshot.
(Photo credit: purefoodsbasketball.com)

Which team will shine brighter: the Star Hotshots or the Phoenix Fuel Masters?

If take a quick look at the elimination round of the PBA Philippine Cup, it doesn't look too good for Phoenix Coach Ariel Vanguardia and his wards. The Hotshots beat the Fuel Masters 123-79, early in the conference, when Coach Chito Victolero was still tinkering with his line-up and they were trying to establish a new culture.

Today we are looking at a rather dominant Hotshots team that not only scores the basketball, but also plays sound, aggressive defense.

Uh-oh.

PBA PhC QF: 4 TNT v 5 GP

To be the Man, you have to beat THE Man
(Photo credit: smartgilasbasketball.com)

This match-up is going to be quite interesting: a re-calibrated championship team going up against young up-and-comers who want to take over the basketball world.

Ladies and gentlemen the PBA gives to you: 4th seed TNT Katropa versus the 5th seed GlobalPort Batang Pier. On one side is the King of the Jungle, FIBA Asia all-star guard Jayson Castro, and on the other stands the young lion, Terrence Romeo.

But if you are expecting a plain, old school shootout between the two, we doubt that TNT's going to be a willing dance partner given their spread-out, "collegiate" approach.

Natural born killer

Mamba Mentality
(Photo credit: gmanetwork.com)

Terrence Romeo just dropped 44 points on the Rain or Shine Elastopainters.

We repeat, forty-four points to go with 6 rebounds and the same number of assists. If you took away today's match up versus RoS' angry lot of shooting guards and small forwards, Romeo is still averaging a league-best 27ppg to go with 4rpg and 6apg on an absurd 44% clip from 2-point territory and 43% from 3.

What separates Romeo from all the other gifted scorers that we have seen both past and present, is that he doesn't appear to be quite the forgiving type. He will score at you in bunches, and will not stop pressing down your throat with his foot not until Coach Franz Pumaren yanks him out of the game or reminds him to let Stanley Pringle and friends join in the fun.

Ginebra's new offense

Holding it down
(Photo credit: Sports5.ph)

No, it's not the Triangle.

Coach Tim Cone and his wards have found life after their PBA Governor's Cup championship (and import Justin Brownlee), not to mention while playing minus franchise center 7"0 Greg Slaughter, by going against the current flow of the PBA game. While other teams have embraced a high-scoring approach with scores breaking the century mark, Ginebra has taken a more defensive stand anchored on efficiency.

The team currently leads the league per game in: points allowed at 84 ppg (vs 86 ppg for them); 2-pt field goal percentage at 37%; and assists at 23. Ginebra has also made a conscious effort in not falling in love with the three-ball, taking a league-last 18 attempts per game (though you could argue that it's merely because they do not have the specialists at the moment to do so).

Katropa U

Trying the college approach.
(Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

When Nash Racela took over for Jong Uichico as head coach of TNT Katropa in the off-season, he made two things clear: 1) the return of the dribble drive offense and 2) TNT will play like a college team.

So far, both points have come into fruition though the team is currently standing on a shaky win-loss record. Honestly, they could have easily been closer to the top, but they were surprisingly bested by cellar-dwelling sister teams Meralco (Ed Daquioag went HAM) and NLEX (Pampanga homecourt).

A closer look at TNT shows that 10 guys are playing 20+ minutes per game with six scoring in double digits. What is even more surprising is that Larry Fonacier is leading the team in minutes with 28mpg 11ppg 3rg 2apg followed by star guard Jayson Castro 27/19/3/6, while both coming off the bench. They are supported by Troy Rosario 25/13/7/1 , Ryan Reyes, 24/7/3/3, Roger Pogoy 23/6/3/1, Ranidel de Ocampo 22/13/6/3 and Kelly Williams 21/10/6/1.

New breed

Green reunion at Gilas
(Photo credit: Spin.ph)

When Coach Chot Reyes said that we should be ready for a few surprises once he announces the 24-man Gilas pool, he didn't mention that we were in for a full-on youth movement altogether.

Still, he made a great point in saying that we are looking at the big picture which is 2019-2020 FIBA competition, while also utilizing some of the younger players who were part of his original Gilas silver medal program (and then some).

We are already quite familiar with the Gilas cadets and the following names such as Calvin Abueva (Alaska), Japeth Aguilar (Ginebra), Terrence Romeo (GlobalPort), Junemar Fajardo (San Miguel), Paul Lee (Star) and Jayson Castro (TNT), so here is our take on the "new guys" who were added into the mix to form a more youthful pool.

Gilas 24-man pool announced

Here comes the BOOM
(Photo credit: slamonline.ph)

After today's Alaska Aces vs Mahindra Floodbusters game which the Aces won, Coach Chot Reyes and some of the SBP and PBA big wigs took to the PhilSports Arena hardcourt to announce the 24-man Gilas pool:

Already assured of spots were the Gilas cadets, as per the previous agreement:

Gilas cadets

Carl Bryan Cruz (Alaska)
Kevin Ferrer (Ginebra)
Mac Belo (Blackwater)
Von Pessumal (Globalport)
Russel Escoto (Mahindra)
Ed Daquioag (Meralco)
Alfonzo Gotladera (NLEX)
Matthew Wright (Phoenix)
Mike Tolomia (Rain or Shine)
Arnold Van Opstal (San Miguel)
Jio Jalalon (Star)
RR Pogoy (TNT)

Ikaw na ba si Mr. (W)right?

The Wright stuff
(Photo credit: Sports5)

Yes, we just used that sappy line from a wonderful local ditty as our title and we feel no remorse or shame.

Why would we, when Gilas rookie and Phoenix Petroleum Fuel Masters' small forward Matthew Wright is making believers out of just about anyone who has seen him play in the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup? Wright has impressed so far, with a high usage rate of 34 mpg and averages of 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists.

Obviously, his familiarity with  head coach Ariel Vanguardia has played in the amount of minutes  that he is currently enjoying. He could be playing behind veteran teammate JC Intal, who is also having quite the conference, but Coach Ariel has often shifted the Fil-Canadian to either SG or SF, depending on the situation and match-ups.

KKS reaction: Chris Lutz to Meralco

Lutz to Meralco
(Photo credit Philstar.com)

From Beerman to Bolt.

After being relegated to the Unrestricted Free Agent list by mother team San Miguel Beermen, 6"3 guard Chris Lutz has been picked up the Meralco Bolts.

This is big news, considering that two rival corporate umbrellas were involved PLUS the fact that Lutz is the Beermen's original Gilas 1 pick from the 2011 PBA Draft. Career-wise, Lutz averaged 25mpg 8ppg 3rpg 3apg though his numbers have gone downhill from 2011 up to 2016.

Instant classic

Big Beau vs The Kraken
(Photo credit to the owner)

If last night's game between the San Miguel Beermen (7-1) and the Rain or Shine Elastopainters (5-3) were a preview of the PBA Philippine Cup Finals; then we are not going to raise any complaints (and that's not simply because we are RoS fans).

The game had all the elements of a classic: starpower, hot-shooting for both sides, physicality, taunting, bum calls that could've changed the outcome of the match-- and those are words to cover the regulation period at that! For the Beermen, they were led by the usual suspects: 3x PBA MVP Junemar Fajardo 25p 17r, 1x PBA MVP Arwind Santos 17p 15r 5a, Alex Cabagnot 14p 3r 3a with some much needed support from RR Garcia 17p and Yancy de Ocampo 12p.

The Elastopainters on the other hand did their usual thing of "spreading out the offense" with Jeff Chan 11p, Chris Tiu 13p, Beau Belga 14p, Maverick Ahanmisi 9p and Dexter Maiquez 8p. Surprisingly misfiring was Jericho Cruz, but we'd like to give the Beermen credit for starting the game with defensive specialist Chris Ross on Cruz right away.

Just a few game notes:

Amazing Arwind

The Pinoy Spiderman
(Photo credit: Inquirer.net)

When it is all said and done, the San Miguel Beermen’s do-it-all forward and former PBA MVP Arwind Santos will undoubtedly go down as one of the best ever.

Is he a small forward? But he rebounds the basketball and often makes his best defensive stops around the paint. Is he a power forward? But he shoots threes, runs the floor and isn’t exactly built like a stocky one as per Filipino traditions.

Dear Asi

The Rock (in a hard place)
(Photo credit: Interaksyon)

Dear Asi,

Hello to my favorite 6”10 Fil-Tonggan, a giant of a man whose ready smile and dimples continue to pierce the hearts of many. I know you blocked me on twitter, because of something I said about you two years back about my opinion on why TnT let you go.

I said that it came down to setting an example to the rest of the team, that maybe someone somewhere believed that you weren’t playing hard enough, which is why up to that point you only had one title to your name. I tagged you because I felt like maybe you’d acknowledge it, or argue that “it’s a business, you a**hole,” but you chose to block me to this day, but it’s all good. Back then I was still in my 20s, now I’d like to believe that I’m wiser in my early 30s, being a father and all. What I’m trying to say is, maybe this time, I could get through to you in a better manner.

See, recently you said that you wanted out of the NLEX Road Warriors after newly-installed head coach Yeng Guiao pretty much turned you from being an ageless juggernaut the last two years into a, well, bit player with limited to no touches. You went from getting consecutive isolation plays in the post, with your young teammates slowing the tempo, to, well, being lost in trying to set screens and trying to move your feet from the perimeter which was never your forte.

All Ineligible/ Anti-Gilas

#whatif Anti-Gilas
(Photo credit Sports5.ph)

While we await the official announcement of Coach Chot Reyes’ Gilas 24-man pool (with the 12 former Gilas cadets already shoo-ins), here is an interesting thought: why not create a “practice team” of “FIBA ineligible” PBA players who are also, mostly, Gilas-caliber?

We are not trying to create any drama here, just that we feel that these guys could readily give Gilas a run for its money considering their overall talent and global experience pre-PBA.  Just to make it even more interesting, we would want maybe Coach Norman Black or Tim Cone to handle this roster:

Alex Cabagnot
Chris Ross
Stanley Pringle
Chris Newsome
Chris Banchero

Bust-a-move

Author's note: Happy new year!

Hype is a terrible thing; it can build you up just as fast as it can bring you down. The PBA and its fans have seen its fair share of “hyped” rookies, baptized as “franchise saviors” who ended up being role players on a different team at best.

Here is our short list of “hyped” players who did not exactly live up to expectations:

Moala Tautuaa, TnT 2015 1st pick
We are still waiting for the “Junemar-stopper.” And while we are at it, for Tautuaa to develop anything close to a post-up game.

Matt Ganuelas Rosser, TnT 2014 3rd pick
He got locked in Jong Uichico’s doghouse, but now that he’s freed by Coach Nash Racela, we’re still not seeing anything stellar out of this former Gilas player as he continues to play like a skinny, long-haired Jon Ordonio.