source: Adrian Dy | gmanetwork.com

The new-look Petron Blaze Boosters started strong and ended strong, surviving a furious Powerade Tigers rally in the third quarter to win 97-83, Sunday at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo, on the opening day of the 2012 PBA Governor's Cup.

The Tigers missed their first eight field goal attempts, allowing Petron to build a 6-0 start that they inflated all the way to 23-14 on a score by their import, Eddie Basden.  But as they nursed a 28-22 lead early in the second quarter, Powerade came roaring back.

A pull-up triple by Gary David kickstarted a 9-2 run that gave Powerade their first lead of the game, 31-30, on a short jumper by their new center Rabeh Al-Hussaini, whom they acquired for Marcio Lassiter, from the very team they were playing.

In response, put-backs by the newly reacquired Dorian Pena and a healthy Chris Lutz countered with a 6-0 run to regain the lead, 36-31.

Then in what turned out to be the turning point of the game, Al-Hussaini was whistled for a flagrant-2 foul for throwing an elbow at the head of Pena, which lead to his ejection at the 7:02 mark.

Without their starting slotman, Powerade was held to just five more points in the half, all coming from free throws, while Petron unloaded 20 big points to go up 57-36 by the break.

Instead of rolling over and giving up though, the Tigers mounted yet another comeback, but this one proved to be more epic in scale. Ramped-up defense by Powerade held Petron to just a single field goal in the third period's first seven and a half minutes.

On the other end of the court, David and Powerade import Rashad McCants went to town, slicing the deficit all the way down to a solitary point, 57-56, on a McCants long-bomb at the 4:54 mark.

That 20-2 meltdown was enough to rouse Petron from their slumber though. Alex Cabagnot countered the barrage with a triple of his own, and two scores by Basden helped give them some breathing room, as they went up 70-63 with a period left to play.

With David and McCants resting on the bench at the dawn of the fourth, Petron stretched their advantage to nine, 78-69, and then despite Powerade's big guns returning, to double-figures on a Basden teardrop, 82-70.

Scores by Jondan Salvador, another new acquisition, and McCants briefly kept Powerade in it, with a split at the line by the former Barako Bull Energy power forward making it 86-77 with 2:54 left in the game.

In response, the former Chicago Bull Basden canned a triple, and then came up with a steal on the next possession and scored in transition to boost the lead to 14, two minutes left.

McCants and David took it back to 10, 91-81, but Cabagnot closed the door on any comebacks with a scoop shot at the 51 second mark, to give the defending champions their first win in the conference.

Basden led all scorers with 28 points on 12-of-22 shooting, contributing 10 rebounds as well to the cause.

Starting floor general Alex Cabagnot had his fingers all over the game, finishing with 17 points, five rebounds and six dimes, while "Spider-man" Arwind Santos hauled in a double-double of 16 markers and 10 boards.

Powerade got 27 from McCants on 27 shots, and 26 from David, who kept his streak of 20-plus point outings alive. The rest of the Tigers though, tallied a mere 30, as the next highest scorer was Salvador, who made up for his seven points somewhat with 10 rebounds.

It was a welcome victory for Petron, who had to play minus their much-coveted off-season prize Lassiter, the fourth overall pick in the 2011 draft. The former Gilas national team member fractured a finger earlier in the week and is expected to miss three weeks.

Coupled with Al-Hussaini's ejection, it was hard to judge who got the better end of the deal that swapped Lassiter and the later-traded Celino Cruz from Powerade to Petron for Al-Hussaini, Rey Guevarra and Lordy Tugade, with the latter two barely making an impact in scant minutes for the Tigers. — ELR, GMA News

The scores:

PETRON 97 - Basden 28, Cabagnot 17, Santos 16, Pena 7, Lutz 6, Miranda 6, Reyes 5, Baclao 4, Yeo 4, Washington 4.

POWERADE 83 - McCants 27, David 26, Salvador 7, Casio 5, Anthony 4, Al-Hussaini 4, Adducul 4, Lingganay 3, Vanlandingham 3, Guevarra 0, Calimag 0, Tugade 0.

Quarter scoring: 26-20, 57-36, 70-63, 97-83

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source: gmanetwork.com

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters stormed out to a hot 14-5 start and never let up, burying the Alaska Aces early and often, 107-100, Sunday at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo.

It was an inauspicious start for new Alaska head coach Luigi Trillo in the opening match of the 2012 edition of the PBA Governor's Cup. In his first game after replacing former coach Joel Banal, his Aces fell behind by as much as 23 points in the second quarter, but some frenzied rally attempts in the second half will give his coaching staff something to highlight headed into their next games.

Thirteen first quarter points by Elasto Painters import Jamelle Cornley propped his side up after twelve minutes, 32-17, with Cornley canning a triple in the lost score of the period.

In the second, Rain or Shine countered four early Alaska points with an 11-2 run, putting them up by 20 on a Ronjay Buenafe triple. A long jumper by Cornley then made it a 50-27 game, but Alaska countered with six straight to make it a more manageable margin entering the half, 53-35.

The Aces finally got going in the third quarter, unleashing a monstrous 16-2 run that finally drew a timeout from RoS coach Yeng Guiao at the 4:37 mark. It didn't immediately help however, as off the brief break, LA Tenorio came up with a steal on Ryan Arana and laid it in on the run, driving the deficit all the way down to 62-59.

Rain or Shine made the adjustments and a barrage of triples from Arana and Jeff Chan inflated the lead back to 15, 78-63 with a period left. It then became 19 after charities by Chan and Jervy Cruz to start the fourth, 82-63.

Alaska had one last run in them, as a 12-2 burst highlighted by two monstrous jams by Jason Forte made it a single-digit difference, 94-85 with 2:43 left. In response, Paul Lee scattered five clutch points that made it a twelve-point game with one and a half minutes left, 99-87, and that was just not enough time for the Aces to mount another rally.

Cornley finished with a game-best 27 points, plus 11 boards and three assists. Jeff Chan added 20, 12 coming from outside the arc, and Paul Lee bounced backed from a quiet second conference with a 17 point, two rebound, four assist night.

Alaska got 25 points from a familiar import, Jason Forte, who was their import last Governor's Cup as well. The backcourt of LA Tenorio and Cyrus Baguio had slow starts, but finished the game with a combined 35 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Rain or Shine was able to attack off 18 Alaska turnovers, doubling the Aces' turnover points, 22-11. The Painters also scored twice as many second-chance points, 16-8, outhustling their opponents. — ELR, GMA News

The scores:

Rain or Shine 107 - Cornely 27, Chan 20, Lee 17, Arana 11, Quinahan 7, Belga 6, Buenafe 6, Cruz 5, Norwood 3, Ibanes 3, Tang 2, Matias 0.

Alaska 100 - Forte 25, Baguio 19, Tenorio 16, Thoss 15, Baracael 13, Espinas 6, Custodio 4, Gonzales 2, Eman 0, Salamat 0.

Quarter scoring: 32-17, 53-35, 78-63, 107-100

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source: InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

UPDATE: Petron def. Powerade 97-83 | ROS def. Alaska 107-100

Marcio Lassiter debuts for Petron Blaze against his old team Powerade as the PBA Governors’ Cup kicks off Sunday with a twinbill at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City.

Lassiter was acquired in a multi-player trade with the Tigers during the break and faces his former team in the main game at 6:30 p.m.

In the opener, Luigi Trillo debuts for Alaska as interim coach as they take on Rain or Shine at 4:15 p.m.

Lassiter’s acquisition gives Petron another weapon and puts the Boosters in good position to defend their crown.

Anthony Washington and Chris Lutz are returning from injury for Petron while Dondon Hontiveros is also close to coming back to help the team’s cause.

Reinforcing the Boosters is former NBA campaigner Eddie Basden.

“We like our chances this conference. Kumpleto ang team unlike before na maraming injured,” said Petron coach Ato Agustin, who also acquired Dorian Pena in a separate trade with Barako Bull.

Powerade got last year’s Rookie of the Year Rabeh Al-Hussaini in the trade along with Rey Guevarra and Lordy Tugade, making the Tigers a deeper team.

“We are working in a fresh perspective this conference. A mindset that has ‘can do’ attitude,” said Powerade coach Bo Perasol.

“Rashad McCants will be a huge part of our campaign as well as our new acquisitions. But we need to live with the fact that we don’t really have much time to work on our cohesion,” he added.

Like Basden, McCants was a former NBA veteran and was selected No. 14 overall by Minnesota in the 2005 draft.

In the first game, Trillo eyes his first win as a PBA coach against the veteran Yeng Guiao of the Elasto Painters.

Trillo replaced Joel Banal, who resigned after the Commissioner’s Cup.

Jason Forte is coming back for Alaska while Rain or Shine is tapping Jamelle Cornley to reinforce the Elasto Painters.

by InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

UPDATE: Petron def. Powerade 97-83 | ROS def. Alaska 107-100

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Jason Forte gets to log his third tour of duty in the Philippines when the Alaska Aces battles Rain or Shine in the opening game of the PBA Governors' Cup at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City. He will be going up against a newcomer -  Jamelle Cornley, a 25-year-old, 6-foot-5 power forward out of Penn State. 

The spotlight may be on the import match-up, But really, what most everyone will be looking at is how Luigi Trillo will fare in his debut as coach of the Aces.

A long-time member of Alaska Milk’s coaching staff as deputy to multi-titled Tim Cone, Luigi gets to call the shots for the Aces after taking over the post vacated by Joel Banal. 

Banal was unsuccessful in two conferences after replacing Cone at the start of the season. Under Banal, the Aces failed to advance beyond the elimination round of the Philippine Cup. The made it to the quarterfinals of the Commissioners Cup but lost to Barako Bull.

Prior to handling the Aces, Trillo was coach of the Adamson falcons for two seasons in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). He also called the shots for the Cebuana Lhuillier Gems in the PBA D-League. He has to relinquish his post to Beaujing Acot to concentrate on the Aces.

The only ‘tweaking’ Trillo did after assuming the post of head coach of the Aces is to send Jay-R Reyes to Meralco in exchange for Gabby Espinas, a more veteran big man. Espinas was once Rookie of the Year cum Most Valuable Player while suiting up for the Philippine Christian University Dolphins in the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Espinas will be helping Joaquim Thoss man the frontline along with other big men like Samigue Eman and Paolo Bugia.

Of course, the essentials remain the same for Alaska Milk which will be conducted on the hardcourt by lead point guard LA Tenorio. Cyrus Baguio is also expected to continue soaring.

Others excpected to  play an important role in the mix are Wesley Gonzales, Bonbon Custodio and rookies Marnel Baracael and Eric Salamat.

Forte first played for Air 21 before being taken in by Alaska Milk last year. With the Aces, Forte averaged 23.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.23 blocked shots in 11 games. 

Cornley is coming off a stint with Bourg in France where he averaged 14.2 points and 5.7 rebounds. He also played for Lev Hasharon in Israel where he averaged 17 points and 7.3 rebounds.

Rain or Shine wanted Arizona Reid back but their former import was playing in Germany and only became available last May 10.

Cornley was supposed to play for Rain or Shine three seasons back as he was recommended by their former import Jai Lewis to then head coach Caloy Garcia. With Reid unavailable, Garcia told coach Joseller “Yeng” Guiao about Cornley. Guiao liked what he saw.

Guiao will continue to lean heavily on the likes of Gabe Norwood, Jeff Chan, Ryan Arana, Ronjay Buenafe and Paul Lee.(BP)

source: www.pba.ph

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source: InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

Just like last year’s tournament, the season-ending Governors’ Cup will once again revert to a format similar to the one used by the PBA in its early years, eschewing quarterfinal and semifinal playoff series and putting a premium into each game.

The eliminations will feature a single round-robin among the 10 teams. After playing nine games, the top six teams advance directly to the semifinal round. Only a tie for the sixth seed will result in a playoff game; all other ties will be broken using the quotient system.

In the semis, the remaining teams will carry over their records from the eliminations. The six squads will play another round of matches, giving them a total of five more games.

At the end of the semis, the top team will get an automatic finals slot. If a team wins four out of its five games in the semis and finishes out of the top two, it will win a playoff for the second seat against the No. 2 team. If no team wins four out of five games, the No. 2 team advances directly to the finals.

At the end of the semis, only a tie for the No. 2 spot will result in a playoff game.

****

May 20, 2012 (YNARES CENTER - ANTIPOLO)
4:15pm - Rain or Shine Elasto Painters vs. Alaska Aces
6:30pm - Petron Blaze Boosters vs. Powerade Tigers
2012 GOVERNORS' CUP SCHEDULES www.pba.ph/schedules

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source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

Coming off a rousing second conference where the last two play dates brought in over 20,000 fans each to the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the PBA looks to end its 37th season with an even bigger bang as the Governors Cup opens with a twinbill at the Ynares Center in Antipolo today.

It’ll be a blitz conference with a 45-game elimination schedule and five out-of-town sorties – Barangay Ginebra vs Meralco in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on June 2, Air 21 vs B-Meg in Digos, Davao del Sur, on June 9, Alaska vs Talk ‘N’ Text in Tubod, Lanao del Norte, on June 16, Rain Or Shine vs Petron in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, on June 23, and B-Meg vs Powerade in Legazpi City, Albay, on June 30.

The eliminations will feature a single-round battle among the 10 teams. The top six advance to the semifinals. A playoff will break a tie for sixth place. The semifinals will be a single round affair with elimination records carried over. A team that wins at least four of five games in the semifinals earns a playoff for a finals slot in case its win-loss record falls short of the top two. The “late-bloomer” incentive gives hope to advance to the finals even to the sixth seed. The top two finishers of the semifinals move on to dispute the title in a best-of-seven series.

Last season, the format was different for nine competing teams, excluding Barako Bull which sat out the tournament. A handicapping height limit system was applied for imports with Talk ‘N’ Text, Petron, B-Meg and Ginebra at 6-2, Air 21, Alaska, Rain Or Shine and Meralco at 6-4 and Powerade at 6-6. This season, a uniform height limit of 6-5 was set. Last season, the quotient system was used to break ties in the standings – now, playoffs will settle logjams.

Struck out of the eliminations in last season’s conference were Powerade, Meralco and Air 21. With import Anthony Grundy at the helm, Petron won the championship in a seven-game thriller over Talk ‘N’ Text, depriving the Tropa of a Grand Slam. However, Rain Or Shine’s Arizona Reid, not Grundy, was named Best Import.

* * * *

This conference will mark Luigi Trillo’s debut as Alaska head coach, taking over from Joel Banal. It will also welcome several player transfers – Gabby Espinas at Alaska, Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Lordy Tugade, Rey Guevarra and Jondan Salvador at Powerade, Marcio Lassiter and Dorian Peña at Petron, Jay-R Reyes at Meralco and Celino Cruz, Carlo Sharma and Doug Kramer at Barako Bull. Players who sat out the recent Commissioner’s Cup in the injured list but will be ready to play this conference include Ginebra’s Rico Maierhofer, Talk ‘N’ Text’s Aaron Aban, Petron’s Jay Washington and Dondon Hontiveros and Barako’s Sunday Salvacion. Rain Or Shine’s Larry Rodriguez may be reactivated in the middle of June, said Painters coach Yeng Guiao.

Barako coach Junel Baculi said the Bulls are looking forward to overachieving once more after making it to the Commissioner’s Cup semifinals and nearly ousting the Texters in a bruising five-game series. “We’ve got a good guard rotation with Willie Miller, Ronald Tubid, Leo Najorda and Sunday,” he said. “Our bigs are Danny Seigle, Don Allado, Mick Pennisi, Sharma and Kramer plus a good import (Jamine Peterson). Point guards are Wynne Arboleda, Celino Cruz and Shawn Weinstein. So far, we won two out of two in tune-up games over Alaska and Air21.” Other players in Baculi’s lineup are Jimbo Aquino, Paul Sorongon, Lou Gatumbato, Mark Andaya, Marc Agustin and Reil Cervantes.

Defending champion Petron fortified its fences by acquiring Lassiter and Peña while reactivating Hontiveros, Washington and Chris Lutz (who played in only the first two games of the previous conference). Powerade brought in the most new faces with Al-Hussaini, Guevarra, Tugade and Salvador.

Health will be a critical factor in determining which teams qualify for the playoffs. The Texters may open the conference without Ryan Reyes, Harvey Carey and Ranidel de Ocampo. Jayson Castro underwent PRP (platelet rich plasma) therapy to heal his aching ankles in an out-patient procedure performed by orthobiologics expert Dr. Isagani Leal but it’s not certain if he’ll be ready for the Tropa’s first game against Meralco on Wednesday. B-Meg’s Marc Pingris still has to deal with a fractured finger. Alaska’s Brandon Cablay and Tony de la Cruz will remain out of action for at least four more weeks and Powerade’s Alex Crisano may sit out the entire conference recovering from repair surgery for a torn right Achilles tendon.

* * * *

No doubt, the imports will take center stage in the conference. Three are NBA veterans – Powerade’s Rashad McCants (Minnesota, Sacramento 2005-09), Petron’s Eddie Basden (Chicago 2005-06) and Ginebra’s Cedric Bozeman (Atlanta 2006-07). All 10 imports are NCAA Division I players with outstanding credentials.

McCants, 27, tops the list, boasting an NCAA title under his belt with the University of North Carolina in 2004-05. He was the Timberwolves’ first round pick in the 2005 NBA draft. In four years in the NBA, McCants bankrolled about $7.4 Million. Basden, 29, came here for Alaska in the previous Governors Cup but was measured over the 6-4 height limit. Now, he’s back to show his wares with Petron. Basden, who played four years at Charlotte University, is fresh from a stint in the Brazilian league. Bozeman, 29, went to the NCAA finals with UCLA in 2005-06 and cracked the Atlanta Hawks lineup as an undrafted rookie.

Peterson, 23, suited up for Providence, the same school that produced Marcus Douthit, and has played in Greece, Dominican Republic and Turkey. Rain Or Shine’s Jamelle Cornley, 25, was a Penn State star and polished his skills in Ukraine, Uruguay, Argentina, Israel and France.

Air21’s Zach Graham, 23, saw action twice in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) Final Four with the University of Mississippi. Talk ‘N’ Text’s Paul Harris, 25, led the Texters to the Commissioner’s Cup crown last season and the former Syracuse standout is back for a second tour of duty. Alaska’s Jason Forte, 28, returns to the Aces fold after a creditable performance in the last Governors Cup. The Southern Mississippi forward was also an import for Air21 in 2010.

B-Meg’s Marqus Blakely, 23, signed contracts with the Los Angeles Clippers and Houston Rockets but never got to play a single NBA game. In 2010, he was the only player in the NCAA to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, blocked shots and steals. Meralco’s Juan Pattillo, 24, played at the University of Oklahoma with Blake Griffin and Western Kentucky University before logging time with the Bakersfield Jam in the NBA D-League this past season.

The batch of imports could be among the youngest ever to invade the PBA. None is 30 or over and six are 25 or under. They’re billed to add excitement and fireworks to the PBA in its season-ending conference.

by Joaquin Henson | philstar.com



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source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

Powerade coach Bo Perasol said yesterday highly touted import Rashad McCants has the mentality, ability and experience to bring the Tigers all the way to the top of the PBA Governors Cup but a concern is the former University of North Carolina hotshot may feel out of place playing in a league below the NBA level.

“Honestly, he has what it takes to play in the NBA or at least in Europe,” said Perasol. “I thinks sometimes, he wonders what he’s doing here. He’s coachable and outspoken. He talks a lot to his teammates on the court, basically affirming what we do in practice. He’s very vocal. We want him to couple that with action. He’s got to walk the talk. We want him to make sure he does what has to be done on the court. He is very knowledgeable about the game and it shows in the way he talks to his teammates. I’m just hoping we’re all on the same page, that we understand where he’s coming from so we can be productive.”

Perasol said McCants’ showing so far at practice has been more than encouraging. “It’s a positive sign,” he said. “Maybe, the reason why he’s not in the NBA or in Europe is he’s misunderstood. But it’s a plus for us. He’s definitely not arrogant. He’s a very intelligent and skillful player. I want him to transform us into a championship team and I know he can do it.”

McCants, 27, played three seasons with the North Carolina Tar Heels and led the varsity to the NCAA title in 2004-05. He was the Minnesota Timberwolves’ first round pick in the 2005 NBA draft. McCants averaged 10 points in 249 games in four NBA seasons with the Wolves and Sacramento Kings. In 2007-08, the sharpshooting guard averaged 14.9 points in 75 games for Minnesota.

Perasol said McCants’ entry numbs the impact of losing Marcio Lassiter. “We won’t miss Marcio’s offense until the All-Filipino conference,” he said. “At the moment, Rashad will play two or three with Gary (David). Jvee (Casio) stays as our starting point guard. At four will be Sean (Anthony) backed up by Jondan (Salvador) and at five will be Rabeh (Al-Hussaini) backed up by Romel (Adducul).”

During the conference break, Powerade underwent a facelift, losing Lassiter, Doug Kramer and Celino Cruz and picking up Al-Hussaini, Lordy Tugade, Salvador and Rey Guevarra.

“We’ve got a new face on,” said Perasol. “We’re still undersized at the four position but we’ve upgraded our middle with Rabeh who’s one of our most hard-working players at practice. I think there was too much pressure on Rabeh coming out of Ateneo. Expectations were too high. But I think he’s maturing. He has heart, he plays tough, he can score, he’s strong, he’s got moves. I don’t care about what happened to Rabeh in the past. We want him to prove himself with us. He’s going to be one of the best big men in the PBA.”

As for Tugade, Perasol said he had his eye on the former National University star for years. “I really wanted him long ago but I couldn’t offer anyone in return,” he said. “He’ll contribute in a big way. He’ll need to rebuild his confidence and we’ll give him time to do it. He’s got a lot of playing years left.”

Perasol said Alex Crisano will likely miss the entire Governors Cup recovering from surgery to repair a torn right Achilles tendon. “His foot is still in a cast,” said Perasol. “I don’t think he’ll be able to catch up this conference.”

Perasol said if Casio continues to play steady, David is as explosive as before and Al-Hussaini lives up to his billing as a premier big man, the Tigers will be tough to beat especially with McCants in the mix. Others in the Powerade roster are Ricky Calimag, Josh Vanlandingham, Francis Allera, Will Antonio, Rudy Lingganay and James Martinez.

“We’ll miss Doug’s rebounding but Rabeh is a legitimate big man and Jondan can help off the boards, too,” said Perasol. “We’re taking a chance with Rashad. We could’ve gotten somebody else. But we wanted a player who can take us all the way to the championship. I know Rashad can help us get to that level. We’ll miss (former Powerade Governor) Mr. (J. B.) Baylon’s presence but Mr. (Ronnie) Asuncion assures us of his support. We went to the All-Filipino finals this season. I think we’re ready to go back to the finals in the Governors Cup.”

by Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

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source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph

With a healthy Jay Washington and Chris Lutz, and the addition of Marcio Lassiter, defending champion Petron Blaze looks a formidable crew on paper but the Boosters’ real strength will be tested once they start their title-retention bid Sunday in the PBA Governors’ Cup.

The 6-foot-7 Washington has fully recovered from a right foot injury that kept him out for nearly a year as he recently joined Petron, which is aiming a return trip to the playoffs after missing the previous conference.

Also coming back from a hamstring injury is the rookie Lutz, who will be reunited with fellow PBA newcomer, and former Smart-Gilas 1 teammate and buddy Lassiter. The two went third and fourth in the last PBA Rookie Draft.

So far, according to Petron mentor Ato Agustin, the two are doing well since the team resumed practice about two weeks ago. The Boosters will also be reinforced by former Chicago Bull guard Eddie Basden.

“They’re doing fine in practice,” said Agustin, who steered Petron to the title with a victory against Talk ’N Text during this same conference last season. “They’ll be ready to play this conference.

Petron plays Powerade on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City.

The rookie Lutz, on the other hand, had a remarkable campaign during his debut conference in the PH Cup champion, but has missed seven of the team’s nine games in the Commissioner’s Cup.

The Boosters were up 3-1 in the best-of-seven semifinals series in the PH Cup versus TNT, but failed to closeout eventual champion the Tropang Texters in Game 7. Petron did not advance to the playoffs of the Commissioner’s Cup after finishing ninth overall with a 3-6 win-loss record.

With a complete line-up, Agustin is optimistic they can compete against the other heavyweights of the PBA like TNT, Commissioner’s Cup champion B-Meg, Barako Bull and Barangay Ginebra.

“We’re confident that we can really compete with a healthy unit,” said Agustin, who is also hoping for the quick recovery of veteran guard Dondon Hontiveros, sidelined with a foot injury since rejoining the team this season.

Petron’s guard and forward positions have also improved with the arrival of the rookie Lassiter, acquired in a deal with Powerade. Also returning to the team this conference is veteran center Dorian Pena, who was obtained in a trade with Barako Bull.

Other holdovers of Petron are Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot, Joseph Yeo, Denok Miranda and Nonoy Baclao.

Of course, there is Basden to reinforce the team.

Basden, the 29-year-old former Chicago Bull, was supposed to suite up for Alaska last year in this same tournament but was sent home after failing to make the then maximum height limit of 6-foot-4.

Games Sunday (Ynares Sports Center, Antipolo City)
4 p.m. — Rain or Shine vs Alaska
6:30 p.m. — Petron Blaze vs Powerade

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source: Renz Ongkiko | interaksyon.com

The good news: Retired NBA player Yao Ming will be joining the Shanghai Sharks, the Chinese Basketball Association team he co-owns, on their trip to the Philippines.

The bad news: The Philippine Sports Commission now has to find sleeping accommodations big enough for the 7-foot-6 Chinese superstar.

“The best thing is Yao Ming is coming. Nung nalaman nga namin namroblema kami agad kung saan sya papatulugin na hotel kasi matangkad sya. Sabi ko nga kung pwede natin dagdagan yung kama, dagdagan natin,” PSC chairman Richie Garcia told News5 on Friday.

The Sharks are scheduled for a friendly match against a selection of PBA stars coached by Tim Cone on June 28 at the newly-built SM Mall of Asia Arena, a game that Malacanang has called a “gesture of goodwill” amid tensions between the Philippines and China because of an ongoing standoff at the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

Garcia said that apart from a game against the PBA selection, the Sharks are also set to face the SMART-Gilas Pilipinas national team. It is unclear, however, whether SMART-Gilas will be composed of players from its pool from the PBA or top-flight amateurs on its cadet program.

The Sharks will also conduct basketball clinics for the youth during their visit.

Garcia added that the proceeds of the friendly matches will fund the PSC’s sports programs.

by Renz Ongkiko, News5 | interaksyon.com

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A college teammate of NBA slam-dunking star Blake Griffin is Meralco’s import for the PBA Governors Cup which fires off Sunday. The Bolts settled with Juan Patillo after Devin Green measured above the 6-foot-5 height limit while another top option Tim Pickett got injured in a pickup game.

Patillo, Griffin’s teammate at University of Oklahoma in the 2008-09 varsity season, was recommended by the US-based import recruiter Bobby Rius.

Patillo is listed at 6-foot-6 but Meralco officials have been assured by their US connections that the measurement is exaggerated.

Green, a former Los Angeles Laker, is listed 6-foot-7. When measured using the PBA system, he turned out to be 6-6.

Patillo, 24, was a first team Junior College All-America pick with the College of Southern Idaho in 2007-08 when he averaged 17.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 22 minutes to lead the varsity to a 30-2 record.

The following year, he moved to Oklahoma, averaging 5.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 13.4 minutes.

Taken out by coach Jeff Capel for violating team rules, Patillo sat out the next season then surfaced at Western Kentucky U – the same school attended by Japeth Aguilar.

He piled up 13.7 points and 9.1 rebound an outing at Western Kentucky.

The Las Vegas, Nevada native is joining the Bolts fresh from his stint with the Bakersfield Jam in the NBA D-League.

Patillo was to arrive Friday, completing the roster of imports playing in the third conference. (NC)

source: www.pba.ph

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source: interaksyon.com

Malacanang said on Friday that the planned exhibition match between a selection of stars from the PBA and the Shanghai Sharks, a Chinese basketball team co-owned by former NBA superstar Yao Ming, is a “gesture of goodwill” between China and the Philippines, amid tension between the two countries over a standoff in the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

“A goodwill game is certainly one way of fostering better relations with the Chinese. It shows the multi-faceted relationship we have with China,” wrote Palace spokesman Edwin Lacierda in a text message to News5.

“Since the goodwill game is still in the planning stage, it is too early comment, but we certainly welcome the basketball game as a gesture of goodwill between the two countries.”

The PBA announced that it will form a 16-man selection coached by B-MEG’s Tim Cone to play against the Sharks at the newly-built SM Mall of Asia Arena on June 28.

The Sharks’ trip was brokered by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Foreign Affairs, who met with officials of Shanghai and the Chinese Embassy in Manila. The event is part of the Memorandum of Agreement signed by the PSC with China’s sports minister Liu Peng last year for further cooperation.

PSC chairman Richie Garcia said it’s a sign of the Philippines’ “healthy” relationship with China.

“Walang issues on political dito, this is just sports. Galing sa puso nila talaga to help. Ang relasyon natin sa China is healthy,” he said.

“The government is behind this. This can be a bridge to make the two countries talk”

by Roices Naguit Sibal and Renz Ongkiko, News5 | interaksyon.com

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source: interaksyon.com

UPDATE: Yao will join the Sharks on their Philippine trip

A selection of PBA stars with B-MEG coach Tim Cone at the helm will welcome the Chinese Basketball Association’s Shanghai Sharks, a team co-owned by former NBA superstar Yao Ming, in a friendly game at the newly-built SM Mall of Asia Arena on June 28.

PBA operations manager Rickie Santos confirmed the news to InterAKTV, adding that PBA selection would be composed of 16 players.

Reports of a possible Sharks trip to Manila have abound since March, when representatives from the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Foreign Affairs met with Shanghai vice general manager Qian Anke and team leader Wang Qun along with officials of the Chinese Embassy in Manila to set up details of the visit. The trip is part of the Memorandum of Agreement signed by the PSC with China’s sports minister Liu Peng last year for further cooperation.

Santos said the original plan was to hold two games, on June 29 and 30, but the PBA declined because it had scheduled matches on those days.

News of a basketball team from China’s visit to the Philippines comes as welcome development, considering the two countries are in the midst of a standoff over Scarborough Shoal, leading to increased tension between them.

Earlier, a planned friendly match on June 12 between the Philippine national men’s football team and its counterpart from China did not push through, but Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta said that it was not related to the Scarborough issue. The Azkals, instead, are playing against Guam on Independence Day.

The Sharks’ trip is reportedly part of the Memorandum of Agreement signed by the PSC with China’s sports minister Liu Peng last year for further cooperation.

The Sharks are one of the most successful teams in the CBA, having captured the regular season and playoff titles in the 2001-2002.

Shanghai was also the ball club of Yao before he made a jump in the NBA with the Houston Rockets in 2002. Yao bought into the franchise in the 2009 after the team suffered financial issues.

It is unclear, however, if Yao is going to make the June trip.
(UPDATE: Yao will join the Sharks on their Philippine trip)

Offers for PBA

But the Sharks aren’t the only squad looking to see action in the Philippines. A New Zealand club team has expressed its desire to play in a regular PBA tournament.

PBA commissioner Chito Salud, however, is cool to the idea.

“We don’t even have an invitational tournament, so I don’t think that’s possible,” he said.

by Reynaldo Belen, InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

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source: Reynaldo Belen | interaksyon.com

The Spark is back. Almost. Even though he hasn’t recovered 100 percent from an eye injury, Barangay Ginebra superstar Mark Caguioa has been cleared to go back on the court, according to team executive Robert Non.

“He has joined the practice and has undergone a test on his eye injury. Next week, he will go to another test, but right now, mukhang gumaganda na pakiramdam niya,” said Non.

Barangay Ginebra coach Siot Tanquingcen has seen improvement on the condition of Caguioa, although the player’s injury hasn’t fully healed.

“He’s getting better, but he’s still experiencing migraines,” said Tanquingcen in a telephone interview. “But he was given clearance by his doctor. Wala namang limitations na ibinigay sa kanya, although hindi naman natin puwedeng itodo.”

The Gin Kings coach added that Caguioa will not wear a protective mask, which Johnny Abarrientos did in 2003 after suffering a similar eye injury.

“But he will wear goggles,” said Tanquingcen.

Caguioa missed Ginebra’s semifinal series against the B-MEG Llamados, the eventual winner of the Commissioner’s Cup, after suffering a broken orbital bone socket in his right eye when he was hit inadvertently by James Yap in a playoff game.

With Caguioa out action, the Gin Kings ended up losing to the Llamados in five games.

Despite his tournament-ending injury, however, the six-foot guard, was named the Best Player of the Conference.

With Caguioa expected back in the season-ending Governors’ Cup, Tanquingcen is hoping Ginebra could contend for the title.

“We’re expecting Mark to play alongside our import, Cedric Bozeman,” said Tanquingcen. “Bozeman is a combo player, who can the big guard spot and small forward. Our chances, however, depends on him and how he can carry the team.”

Bozeman, a former member of the Atlanta Hawks, is listed in the United States as a 6-foot-6 wingman.

by Reynaldo Belen, InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

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source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

Denver Nuggets center JaVale McGee intends to end his three-stop, offseason training program in Manila on Aug. 1-15 and Smart Gilas coach Chot Reyes said yesterday the 7-footer with an unreal 90.5-inch wingspan might join the national team practices during his stay.

A bill was recently filed in Congress by Rep. Robbie Puno to make McGee a naturalized citizen with the view of gaining eligibility to represent the country with Gilas in competitions such as the FIBA-Asia Championships, World Championships and Olympics.

“I haven’t spoken to JaVale personally but (I’ve spoken) with his people,” said Reyes who is in the US to attend to work as MVP Sports Foundation executive director and Smart Gilas coach. “We’re working on him coming to practice with Gilas on Aug. 1-15 but we’re playing (Marcus) Douthit at the Jones Cup in August and Stankovic Cup in September.”

Reyes said he is exploring US possibilities linked to his job with the MVP Sports Foundation but “it’s still too early to discuss (options).” While in the US, Reyes said he will oversee the situation of Talk ‘N’ Text players who are in Los Angeles. He cited the progress of Jimmy Alapag’s father, battling cancer, Harvey Carey’s possible knee surgery at Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, Ryan Reyes’ medical examination of the right knee that he injured in Game 7 of the recent PBA Commissioner’s Cup finals and Ali Peek’s regular neck check-up.

“We’re also monitoring if Jayson Castro and Ranidel de Ocampo need to go to the US for further treatment or rehabilitation,” added Reyes. Castro has undergone prolotherapy to strengthen both ankles. The treatment involves PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections. De Ocampo had nasal reduction to fix a fracture in his nose. Reyes said he’ll be back in town on Sunday.

Patty Scott, chief executive officer of the Cincinnati investment management company East West Private, disclosed McGee’s plan of training in Los Angeles, Denver and Manila during her recent visit here. East West Private staged McGee’s “Flying Buddha Slam Jam” event at the NBA City during the All-Star Weekend in Orlando last February. McGee was joined in the fan show by Shaquille O’Neal and Washington Wizards guard John Wall, among others. There were four-hour queues for fans to meet McGee, get his autograph and pose for a photo.

“Everybody in the NBA is calling JaVale the next Shaq or Kareem (Abdul-Jabbar),” said Scott. “He’s learning a lot from coach George Karl at Denver. When he got traded by Washington, JaVale felt he was moving to a positive situation where the Nuggets want to get young and are looking to grow with him over the long haul. I think it’s a positive step in his career, particularly as he’s now with coach Karl.”

If McGee’s schedule allows, he will be in Manila during East West Private’s coming launch of a revolutionary, computerized, data-based sports technology system. McGee is a beneficiary of this 3D motion capture approach that is scientific, analytical and educational. McGee plans to work out with trainer Rory Jones in Los Angeles and Denver then hook up with strength and conditioning coach Chris Thomas in Manila.

McGee, 24, was one of 15 finalists vying for spots on the US national team bound for the World Championships in 2010 but didn’t make the cut. He played in an exhibition scrimmage with the US squad at the World Basketball Festival in the Radio City Music Hall in New York City that year. His mother Pam won a gold medal with the US women’s basketball team at the 1984 Olympics.

McGee was Washington’s first round and 18th overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft. Last March, he was traded by the Wizards to Denver and wound up averaging a career-high 11.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 25.2 minutes in 61 total games. He shot a career-high .556 from the field and .461 from the line. His single-game career highs include 28 points, 18 rebounds and 12 blocked shots. Last year, McGee posted his first and only NBA triple double by compiling 11 points, 12 rebounds and 12 blocked shots in Washington’s 98-79 loss to Chicago.

In the NBA playoffs this season, McGee collected 21 points and 14 rebounds in 33 minutes as Denver beat the Los Angeles Lakers, 102-99, in Game 5 of their first round Western Conference series. The Lakers eventually disposed of Denver in seven games with McGee averaging 8.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 25.9 minutes.

In his twitter account early this year, McGee said, “Just heard from coach Chot that the Philippine national team is about to be formed-would love to represent the Philippines if given the chance.” McGee was in the country twice last year, first with other NBA stars to play a two-game exhibition series and second, to visit different provinces in a video shoot to promote local tourist destinations.

by Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

****

Bill filed to naturalize NBA center JaVale McGee for SMART-Gilas

Attached herewith is a copy of HB 6169/An Act Granting Philippine Citizenship to Javale Lindy Mcgee filed yesterday, May 14, at the HREP. (via @snowbadua)



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source: Reynaldo Belen | interaksyon.com

PBA commissioner Chito Salud on Wednesday met with officials of the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters which he described as “constructive and positive”.

Tropang Texters executives Ricky Vargas and Pato Gregorio joined Salud in the meeting to present proposals on how to improve officiating in the league.

“The meeting went very well. There was a frank and open exchange of views on the agenda items. We agreed to continue our dialogue on the propriety and veracity of some of the recommendations and views advanced during the meeting,” said Salud.

Talk ‘N Text had expressed displeasure over a last-second call against Tropang Texters forward Kelly Williams in Game Seven of the recently-concluded Commissioner’s Cup finals.

Vargas, who represents the team on the PBA’s Board of Governors, said the team is seeking concrete changes to officiating the games, which include the following steps:

1. The use of most seasoned referees;
2. A clear definition from the Commissioner over what constitutes a foul;
3. The use of video playback to review questionable calls, especially at crucial times.

Vargas also said that the PBA should look at the possible influence of gambling on the games, but clarified that he wasn’t talking about Game Seven of the finals.

Salud, meanwhile, lauded Talk ‘N Text after the discussion.

“I am particularly happy with the constructive and positive stance Talk ‘N Text representatives have approached this meeting. They assured me of their continued support for the overall interest of PBA which is all a commissioner could ask from all of PBA member teams,” he said.

by Reynaldo Belen, InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

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source: Krista Angela M. Montealegre | interaksyon.com

The commitment of Alaska Milk Corp. to the Aces has not waned even as a new controlling shareholder takes over the company. Alaska is preparing to exit the Philippine stock market as Royal FrieslandCampina moves to further increase its stake in the company, reaffirmed its commitment to the PBA.

In fact, what Alaska may have found in the Dutch dairy giant was a perfect partner, which shares the company’s love for sports.

“There was talk about that [the Alaska Aces], but we’re very much committed to the Aces. That’s very near and dear to my heart personally and I want to win our 14th PBA championship,” said Alaska team owner Wilfred Steven Uytengsu, Jr.

The Alaska franchise have won 13 PBA titles, including an elusive Grand Slam in 1996 under Tim Cone, who recently bagged his first championship with B-MEG in the recently concluded 2012 Commissioner’s Cup.

After ending a 22-year partnership with Cone, Alaska struggled as it suffered its worst finish in an all-Filipino conference — a ninth place finish in the Philippine Cup — but improved its standing to fifth in the Commissioner’s Cup.

The Aces are also looking at a fresh start with the appointment of Luigi Trillo as Alaska interim coach to replace Joel Banal.

Apart from the Aces, Alaska is also making a bigger commitment to youth sports development. PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa has left the Aces coaching staff to oversee the nationwide expansion of the company’s youth basketball program.

“They [FrieslandCampina] are quite excited in being involved with that. They support not just the Alaska Aces, but Alaska Milk’s commitment to youth and sports development whether that’s the PBA, the Alaska Power Camp, Alaska Football Camp, Alaska Iron Kids. They see the building and the equity we have built with our association with sports,” Uytengsu said.

Uytengsu will keep his post as president and chief executive officer of the Philippines’ biggest milk company and, while he’s still in the business, Alaska and sports will be inseparable.

“Management control is with us and for as long as I’m involved running the business, I see that [sports] as very strategic to us,” said Uytengsu.

by Krista Angela M. Montealegre | interaksyon.com

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source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph

Barangay Ginebra guard Mark Caguioa, who won the award as best player of the just-ended PBA conference, has recently rejoined the team’s practice, although it remains uncertain if he will play in the season-ending Governors’ Cup that starts Sunday at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City.

Ginebra mentor Siot Tanquingcen said yesterday that the 6-foot-1 guard was finally given the ‘green light’ by doctors to join the team’s training but was advised to do it gradually so as not to aggravate his injured right eye.

“We’ll see how he will respond,” Tanquingcen told the Bulletin in a phone interview. “According to Mark’s doctors, it should be gradual. Then after two weeks, he’ll be re-evaluated and will go from there if he can really play.”

“It’s always good news that guys are getting back healthy. There is still possibility of a surgery, though we’re hoping for the best he won’t have one. Even Mark doesn’t want to undergo operation. Now it’s a trial period,” Tanquingcen added.

Caguioa, 32, has been sidelined since late March after sustaining a fractured right eye socket when it was accidentally hit by the left wrist of B-Meg’s James Yap during the team’s playoff game that decided the No. 2 spot in the previous PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

Because of the injury, Caguioa was sidelined during Ginebra’s best-of-five semifinal series with B-Meg, the eventual champion of the second conference.

According to Tanquingcen, Caguioa still has migraine, one of the effects from his fractured orbital socket, and that only indicates that “Mark isn’t 100 percent healthy” and still needs time to recover before he can play again.

“Let’s just see how he goes. He can actually do everything, but as I’ve said just gradual. There are no limitations on what he does,” Tanquingcen said.

Ginebra, which will continue to miss veteran center Eric Menk after suffering a pulled hamstring in practice recently, will start its PBA Governors’ Cup campaign on Wednesday (May 23) against Air21 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Meantime, former University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) guard Cedric Bozeman continues to impress Tanquingcen in practice, but the Ginebra coach said they will know how good the ex- Atlanta Hawk when the tournament begins.

“We’ll really know during the course of the conference. Although, I think he has a good attitude,” he said. “He’s also getting along well with his teammates. We got him because he can fill our need at the two guard positions since he’s a combo-guard.”

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source: Reynaldo Belen | interaksyon.com

The Powerade Tigers were a picture of perfect team chemistry when they went on a Cinderella run to the finals of the Philippine Cup.

But with two players with less than stellar reputations coming into the team, observers wonder if it would have an adverse effect on the team.

Powerade coach Bo Perasol, however, isn’t worried.

“Kung sa pagha-handle ng mga players na may topak, marami na akong na-encounter nyan. But I’m more concerned about how they can carry the team rather than their reputation,” Perasol told InterAKTV. “It depends on how they will play whether they can do positive things for the team.”

Perasol sees a gem in Al-Hussaini, last season’s Rookie of the Year who was the centerpiece of a trade that sent star rookie Marcio Lassiter to the Petron Blaze Boosters.

“He’s big. He can post up and he can shoot. He has tremendous upside on his game,” said Perasol. “Pero makikita mo na hindi pa madiin yung mga decisions nya.”

Perasol was aware of the whispers about Al-Hussaini’s negative attitude, and moved to address it immediately.

“Kinausap ko sya, and even sya hindi niya rin malaman why he was given negative impression about his attitude in the game. Pero ako I was able to determine yung negativity na sinasabi ng mga kasama niya kung bakit nafu-frustrate sila sa kanya. Pero ako, I will be patient enough on showing it to him and help him grow,” said Perasol

But Al-Hussaini isn’t the only reported head case on the team.

The Tigers’ import, Rashad McCants, a former first round pick from North Carolina, is known to have NBA-caliber talent, but has had trouble latching onto a team because of continuing perceptions over his attitude.

But Perasol believes McCants is simply misunderstood.

“[Powerade forward] Will [Antonio] told me that McCants is very intelligent, which is why he has given wrong or sometimes negative impressions,” said Perasol.

McCants played for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. In the 2009-10 season, he was supposed to join the Houston Rockets, but was cut due to an abdominal injury.

Powerade originally looked at bringing in Trey Johnson as its import, but decided to tap McCants instead after its first choice cannot commit to play for the entire tournament.

by Reynaldo Belen, InterAKTV | interaksyon.com

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source: Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

PBA media bureau chief and special assistant to the commissioner Willie Marcial denied yesterday that Talk ‘N’ Text boycotted the recent All-Star Weekend in Laoag City, adding that the absence of representatives from the Tropa was advised as early as Game 4 of the Commissioner’s Cup finals last May 2.

Texters coach Chot Reyes, tapped to call the shots for the Veterans in the All-Star Game last Sunday, told the PBA he could not make it to Laoag because of a previously scheduled trip to Los Angeles where he had to do work for the MVP Sports Foundation and the Smart Gilas team. Reyes, the MVP Sports Foundation and Gilas head coach, left Manila the day after Game 7. Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio took over Reyes’ spot in the All-Star Game.

Marcial said the PBA was also advised that Kelly Williams, Jimmy Alapag, Ranidel de Ocampo, Jayson Castro and Jared Dillinger wouldn’t be able to join the All-Star extravaganza. “There was definitely no boycott,” said Marcial. “We were advised long before the finals ended by (Texters team manager) Aboy Castro so their absence had nothing to do with the outcome of the playoffs.”

Williams and Alapag were chosen as reserves for the Veterans while De Ocampo was picked to play with the Stalwarts in last Friday’s encounter against the Greats. Castro was supposed to take injured Mark Caguioa’s spot on the Veterans roster and Dillinger was invited to compete in the Slam Dunk contest.

“They all had valid reasons,” said Marcial. “But we weren’t advised that Japeth (Aguilar) and Bong (Ravena) wouldn’t go.” Aguilar played sparingly for the Texters in the seven-game finals, going scoreless in two appearances. He was chosen as a reserve for the Rookies, Sophomores, Juniors (RSJ) squad in the All-Star Game and a Slam Dunk participant. Ravena, the Texters’ assistant team manager, was listed in the Stalwarts cast as a legend with Kenneth Duremdes and Allan Caidic.

“We still have to hear from Japeth and Bong,” said Marcial. There were others who were supposed to play in the All-Star Weekend but begged off, duly advising the PBA of their absence. Among those who were unable to show up were Pido Jarencio (Stalwarts), Hector Calma (Greats), Rudy Hatfield (Greats), Jay-Jay Helterbrand (Stalwarts) and Ronnie Magsanoc (Stalwarts).

PBA legends Johnny Abarrientos and Leo Isaac were late additions to the Stalwarts cast to fill in for the absentees. Asi Taulava was brought in to reinforce the Veterans, replacing Marc Pingris who initially backed out because of a broken finger. But the day before the All-Star Game, Pingris arrived in Laoag and enlisted with a heavily bandaged finger.

* * *

Pingris wasn’t the only trouper in the group. Arwind Santos volunteered to make the Slam Dunk contest a five-way affair with Niño Canaleta, J. C. Intal, Gabe Norwood and Rey Guevarra. Intal had a swollen knee and nursed a fever the night before the Slam Dunk contest but still reported for duty. Even Canaleta brushed off tendonitis in both knees to capture his fifth Slam Dunk crown.

“It was an incredible display of camaraderie,” said Marcial. “The players went all out for the fans. James (Yap), for instance, needed to rest with a hoarse voice last Saturday and I asked him to stay in bed so he could be fine for the All-Star Game the next day but he insisted on joining us in Pagudpud. You couldn’t ask more from the players. Jolas (Lastimosa) and Rico (Maierhofer) drove 4x4 trucks. Willie (Miller) and Josh (Urbiztondo) did sandboarding – both fell. Asi and Gabe (Norwood) were like soldiers riding a Hummer. They all participated in the street parties, mingled with fans and were very cooperative.”

Marcial said the highlight was the All-Star Game. “Tickets were sold out for the Friday game between the Greats and Stalwarts but the crowd was overflowing for the Sunday game, about 8,000 fans,” he said. “Commissioner (Chito) Salud was impressed with the pre-game performance of the RSJs who wore shades and did individual dance routines in the middle of the court but he was amazed by the performance of the Veterans who came in with towels over their heads and did their version of ‘Thriller’ complete with Arwind’s choreography. The Veterans were even made up with lipstick and powder. Asi was the hit as the deadman. The crowd loved it. I think Arwind has a future as a choreographer.”

by Joaquin Henson | philstar.com

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source: Waylon Galvez | mb.com.ph

With the participation of the players – both active and retired –  as well as the solid support of thousands of fans that trooped to the venue, PBA Commissioner Chito Salud  declared that the 2012 edition of the PBA All-Star Weekend in Laoag City stands out among the best.

In the two days that the All-Star festivities were held at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena, fans packed the venue to the rafters, particularly the main event that featured the match between Veterans Team and the Rookies/Sophomores/Juniors (RSJs) Team.

“This year’s All-Star to my mind says a lot about where PBA is today,” said Salud.

That, of course, was a fitting follow up to the Commissioner’s Cup finals which also broke attendance records.

A record average crowd of 16,403 was established during the best-of-seven series – highlighted by a pack of 21,000 that witnessed Game 7 of the series won by B-Meg at the expense of last year’s champion Talk ’N Text.

Salud said: “First, the warm, rousing welcome we received from our gracious hosts (Laoag City, Ilocos Norte) is indicative of the tremendous goodwill PBA has in Philippine communities. It is a good check whether the PBA is on the right track.”

“Second, the enthusiastic participation of our players, both past and present, demonstrates clearly the commitment of our players to embrace their responsibility as PBA ambassadors and role models to the youth.”

“And third, I also felt the players are beginning to understand the intangible value of renewing personal ties with fellow players, connecting with the veterans and the precious legacy they’ve been handed and building on this legacy,” he added.

Aside from the All-Star Game, the PBA introduced the Legends Game played last Friday that featured two teams – the Greats and the Stalwarts – with ex-pros leading the teams combined with some of the active players in the PBA.

The Greats with four-time PBA MVP Alvin Patrimonio, Ato Agustin, Jojo Lastimosa and Olsen Racela defeated the Stalwarts of Allan Caidic, Leo Isaac, Kenneth Duremdes and Johnny Abarrientos, 143-139. Agustin was named the game’s MVP.

“More than the fun part, that’s what the PBA All-Star is about. And on this basis, I think the All-Star Weekend was a success,” said Salud, whose office has now listed three candidates as the next All-Star host, previous hosts Boracay and Cebu, as well as Tacloban.

After leading B-Meg to the Commissioner’s Cup title with the Finals MVP plum, hotshot James Yap powered the Veteran All-Stars to a 176-144. He sizzled with 44 points with seven booming three-pointers to clinch another MVP award – his first in nine All-Star appearances.

In the Skills Events, Ginebra’s Nino “KG” Canaleta bagged his fifth Slam Dunk title after winning it from 2005 to 2007 and also in 2010, while Mark Macapagal of Meralco and B-Meg’s Jonas Villanueva won for the third straight time in the Three-Point Shootout and Obstacle Challenge.

The regular games of the PBA will resume Sunday with two matches at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo City as Rain or Shine battles Alaska 4 p.m., while defending champion  Petron Blaze takes on Powerade at 6:30 p.m.

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