Leaders air common strategy

(From Business Mirror)

Alaska and San Miguel Beer will be working to increase the pressure on their rivals and inch closer toward a possible championship showdown in the Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Conference.

The two teams regained control of their respective semifinal match-ups with down-the-wire victories on Sunday, which Alaska coach Tim Cone described as “very crucial.”

A 90-86 win gave Alaska a 2-1 lead over Talk ’N Text in the best-of-seven series. That allowed the Aces to relax in practice on Monday and Tuesday.

“We’re hoping the extra day break has refreshed us and we go into Game Four on even terms with TNT,” said Cone of their 5 o’clock encounter with the Tropang Texters on Wednesday at the Astrodome.

The Alaska coach is expecting TNT to come back strong in Game Four as it did in Game Two, so he is keeping his fingers crossed the Aces would be able to fan a streak.

“Usually, the team who can win back-to-back in a series wins it,” Cone said.

With import Diamon Simpson asserting his dominance over counterpart Shawn Daniels and LA Tenorio taking charge when the going gets tough, Cone has a reason to be optimistic.

Cone has won 12 championships for Alaska and his last one came in 2007 in the same conference also at the expense of TNT, then coached by Joel Banal, who is now one of his assistants.

Momentum may be on Alaska’s side but Chot Reyes, coach of the top-seeded Texters, is confident his chargers will rise to the challenge and tie the series.

All they have to do, he said, is to contain Simpson and match Alaska’s aggressiveness.

“We lost Game Three because Simpson is thoroughly dominating Daniels and they [Aces] took 34 free throws to our 13. If we’re able to solve at least one of these then we’ll have a chance in Game Four,” Reyes said.

For San Miguel Beer coach Siot Tanquingcen, their ability to play tough defense will be key to winning Game Four against B-Meg Derby Ace.

Making his ninth semifinal appearance, Tanquingcen said he expects their 7:30 p.m. encounter against the Llamados to be as close as Game Three which they won, 74-70.

“Nothing will be given to you in this series. You will have to work for it,” Tanquingcen said.

The Llamados remain upbeat despite Sunday’s loss but will have to improve on their shooting to be able to compete against the Beermen, according to B-Meg Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio.

“Our offense [in Game Three] was pathetic. We only scored 70 points after exploding with 95 points in Game Two. We know for a fact that we couldn’t win against SMB if we don’t score in the high 90s,” Gregorio said.

He gave his troops a break on Monday to enable them to recharge.

“We have no legs last Sunday, something that worries me because I have a short rotation which means that my players play longer minutes.” Gregorio said.

Life after a Realtor: New roles for Boyet, Buddy

(From GMA News)

Buddy Encarnado, a Sta. Lucia Realtor for life, and champion coach Boyet Fernandez, are expected to play new roles after their team bade goodbye to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

Fernandez gladly accepted the role as team consultant for the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons. He has already joined former PBA superstar Jerry Codiñera and head coach Aboy Castro as early as last week.

"Coach Aboy (Castro) has been asking me to join as early as last year, but I still have a commitment with Sta. Lucia. Now that I no longer have a team to coach in the PBA, it's a good opportunity for me. The environment is different in the collegiate league and it's fun. I'm here just to help out," said Fernandez, who guided Sta. Lucia to its last championship in the 2007-2008 Philipine Cup.

Fernandez was among the well-wishers during the get-together, and 60th birthday party of Sta. Lucia board governor Encarnado at the Acropolis Club House in Libis, Quezon City.

He was joined by past and present members of the squad which include former coach Alfrancis Chua, former Realtors Kelly Williams, Ryan Reyes and ex-team captain Dennis Espino and other team officials, members, supporters and friends of Encarnado.

Also present were PBA officials headed by commissioner Sonny Barrios, incoming commissioner Chito Salud, acting board chairman Rene Pardo of B-Meg Derby Ace and board members Robert Non of Ginebra and Virgil Villavicencio of Talk 'N Text as well as PBA operations manager Rickie Santos and media burreau chief Willie Marcial.

Sta. Lucia's top honcho Exequiel Robles was there, too.

Williams and Reyes won their MVP and Rookie of the Year awards, respectively, while playing for the Realtors. They are now members of the Tropang Texters.

Espino played his first 15 seasons for Sta. Lucia before being traded to Coca-Cola early this season.

Fernandez, who started his amateur career with Sta. Lucia, thanked Encarnado for giving him the trust to run the Realtors' squad up to its final days in the PBA.

"I have high respect for Boss Buddy and I'm very thankful that he gave me the opportunity to coach the team. Sta. Lucia will always be a part of my life as I started my playing career with this team and had my only coaching career with this team as well," added Fernandez.

For Encarnado, basketball has been part of his life, and even without Sta. Lucia Realty, he will most likely serve the PBA in a different capacity.

Encarnado, a former PBA chairman, along with Robert Non and Pato Gregorio of Talk 'N Text, were delegated to lead the committee for the D-League.

Encarnado is expected to head the Developmental League, which will be formed through the merger of Liga Pilipinas and Philippine Basketball League (PBL).

The two leagues came up with a joint tournament – the Tournament of the Philippines (TOP), which is being done through a series of short-leg events in different parts of the country.

Soon, the merged leagues will fall under the PBA umbrella, to which a new league will be created – a PBA D-League -- patterned after the NBA D-League in the United States.

The creation of the D-League was pushed by former PBA chairman Lito Alvarez, who was recently appointed by President Noynoy Aquino as the new Bureau of Customs commissioner

Meralco's PBA entry needs board approval

Manila Electric Company (Meralco), a company with a rich basketball tradition, is now knocking on the PBA doors.

The company is reportedly taking over Sta. Lucia's franchise, but it will still need board approval, according to Pardo.

"We want to see how competitive the team (Meralco) it will field in and how long can it commit in participating in the PBA, that's why its entry needs board approval."

"People would want to see games played at a more competitive level and they want to see competitive teams. If we have competing teams with inferior line up and not winning games, it will definitely hurt the league's attendance," added Pardo.

Pending the official takeover, Meralco will inherit a squad that has Nelbert Omolon, Ali Peek, Nic Belasco, Josh Urbiztondo, Chris Ross, Gabby Espinas, Jason Misolas and former San Beda stalwarts Yousif Aljamal, Ogie Menor and Pong Escobal as members.

Once Meralco becomes the 10th member of the PBA, the league will also need to tackle whether the team will become a sister squad of Talk 'N Text or become an independent team.

Manny Pangilinan, the chief backer of the Tropang Texters, also owns a controlling stake in Meralco.

Last season, several PBA board members questioned whether Burger King, a brand carried by Air21 of the Lina Group of Companies, and Talk 'N Text were sister teams.

Burger King is a joint venture of the Lina Group, Lito Alvarez, Pangilinan, Ricky Vargas and Wilson Young of Basic Holdings Corporation.

The Lina Group was able to prove it has the majority share with Burger King, but Alvarez suggested that Burger King and Talk 'N Text won't trade players directly.

The trade ban was lifted after the Lina Group used its old name, Air21.

Tougher battles ahead

(From Business Mirror)

AFTER hurdling the most popular ball club in the land, Alaska’s next assignment is the most dominant squad in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference.

The Aces averted what could be a monumental collapse after Barangay Ginebra launched an improbable run in the closing seconds of their best-of-five quarterfinal series on Sunday night at the jam-packed Araneta Coliseum.

The young Alaska squad showed maturity in the end as the more experienced Kings failed to convert in their last play with five seconds left to surrender a 93-91 decision to the Aces.

The thrilling victory sent the Uytengsu franchise to the best-of-seven semifinal duel against No. 1 seed Talk ’N Text, the team that lost only four in 18 matches in the eliminations and which has beaten them twice in the tournament.

“Talk ’N Text is formidable but we are not afraid of them,” said Alaska head coach Tim Cone, who will be pitted against his close friend and Tropang Texters mentor Chot Reyes.

“Obviously, they [Texters] have a huge advantage and we came from a tough series and the players are really banged up like LA [Tenorio] and Diamon [Simpson]. Some guys are still coming from injuries. It will really be hard,” he added.

Cone’s wards were lucky to survive the onslaught by Ginebra in the dying seconds of the do-or-die Game Five as the grand slam-winning coach admitted Jayjay Helterbrand’s triple shifted the momentum to the Kings.

But Joe Devance, Simpson and Cyrus Baguio had other plans in mind as they made huge plays to spoil a Ginebra celebration.

“Our composure held on in the last play and that’s what we’ve been talking about at the start of the conference,” said Cone. “Joe showed great composure. He didn’t take a quick shot. He has really grown in front of our eyes.”

The American mentor was referring to Devance’s big-time assist to Simpson that turned out as the game-winner.

Helterbrand drilled a three-pointer that capped an amazing 7-0 run for a 91-90 Kings lead with 28 seconds left.

Alaska’s play was botched by the Kings’ pesky defense, but the Aces patiently waited for the right opportunity and, alas, Alaska’s 22-year-old import Simpson banked a short stab on Devance’s pass to beat the shot clock.

Ginebra had five seconds to steal the game but Baguio, the player the Kings gave away for the 33-year-old Willie Miller, snatched the ball from 35-year-old center Eric Menk.

Baguio was fouled, split his two free throws with no time left and sent the pro-Ginebra crowd home in grief.

“It’s almost sad someone had to lose this game and I’m glad it’s not us. It’s a tough one to lose and my heart goes out to them,” said Cone, who expects the same atmosphere with Talk ’N Text as Game One of the semifinal showdown starts on Wednesday also at the Big Dome.

Journeymen

(From Business World)

The Philippine Basketball Association journey of guard Mike Cortez and forward Billy Mamaril took another turn as they moved to new homes anew to do their thing.

In a trade consummated at the weekend, 2003 rookie draft batch mates Cortez and Mamaril swapped ball clubs. Former no. 1 pick Cortez is now playing for the Barangay Ginebra Kings while sixth selection Mamaril is now with the Air21 Express.

This latest swap marked yet another instance said players found themselves on the move, and highlighted their status as league "journeymen." Ginebra is "Cool Cat" Cortez’s fourth team in his seven-year career after stints with the Alaska Aces, San Miguel Beermen and the Express. Mamaril, for his part, has Air21 as his fifth squad following stops with the Purefoods TJ Giants, the now-defunct Shell Turbo Chargers, Coca-Cola Tigers and the Gin Kings.

Constantly on the move, one is left to wonder whether Cortez and Mamaril are that "non-bearing" to be that easy to ship out. A quick look at their respective careers will actually show the contrary. While they may not be top of mind as the brightest of the league stars, they still are quality players who can change complexion of games if allowed.

While injuries on both knees have somewhat slowed him down, Cortez remains one of the heady backcourt men in the PBA. In his seven-year pro career, he has been steady for at least 11 points and four assists. He has the ability to break down defenses with his penetrating moves while also having a decent outside game. He showed his value as a floor leader when he helped the Beermen notch last year’s Fiesta Conference title and was considered a potential finals most valuable player at that time, which eventually went to teammate Jonas Villanueva.

Mamaril, meanwhile, is one of the grittiest frontliners in the league. Offensively he is shaky alright -- at least six points per throughout his career -- but defensively he is very solid. He has been named to a couple of PBA All-Defensive teams and almost always is assigned to guard opposing teams’ top frontcourt players and imports with much effectivity.

And this capacity of theirs to be productive is I would like to believe in part the reason why they have been constantly on the move. Teams find much value in them that when they are being dangled in a trade, ball clubs find ways to snatch them. And this latest player deal is no different. With Ginebra’s backcourt aging and ailing, Cortez gives it a boost with his leadership and decision making. The same goes for Mamaril, who adds ceiling and toughness to Air21’s frontline.

Whether these latest stops would be the last for Cortez and Mamaril, we will never know for sure. With competition in the league growing tougher and evolving, teams will be constantly on the lookout to further improve themselves. Still, Cortez and Mamaril can take solace in the fact that they are being traded because they are wanted by other squads and afforded the chance to do what they do best; a situation that may not be the most "ideal" (as I am sure given the chance they would prefer to stick it with one team) but nonetheless is fair enough and something to make the most out of from.

(Note: Cortez made his debut for Ginebra last Sunday and finished with three points and four assists in 17 minutes of play. Mamaril plays his first game with Air21 on Friday against the Sta. Lucia Realtors.)

Cariaso Says Goodbye On His Own Terms

(From Inquirer)

Jeffrey Cariaso feels he can still play for two more years. But wanting to fulfill a promise he made to himself, the Alaska Ace guard is calling it quits after a 15-year career.

The former Rookie of the Year, the PBA’s second oldest active player at 37, announced his retirement Monday through a statement. He is currently on the reserve list of Alaska, which made him the sixth draft pick overall in 1995.

San Miguel Beer guard Olsen Racela is currently the oldest active player at 39.

“I have always said that I want to leave this game on a high note,” the 6-foot-2 Cariaso said in a statement. “I want to leave even if I think, and my peers think, I can still play for another two years.”

Cariaso said he asked the Alaska coaching staff to put him on reserve after he was kept on the bench during their first six games.

“I certainly did not want my last conference to end this way,” Cariaso said, adding that he understands that his services are no longer needed on the court.

Cariaso suited up for the Alaska Grand Slam team of 1996 and the National team in the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea.

Arboleda Returns, Guiao Takes A Leave For Slumping Express

(From GMA News)

The Air21 Express, a team on a seven-game slump in the ongoing Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Cup, received good and bad news Thursday.

First, the good news.

The slumping Express are welcoming back controversial guard Wynne Arboleda, who has just been reinstated by the Office of the Commissioner after serving eight months of suspension.

The stocky 5 foot-10 guard will play for the first time this year when the Express face the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados in Panabo City, Davao del Norte on Saturday.

The last time Arboleda saw action for the Express was during their game against the Smart-Gilas national developmental squad last October 16, 2009 where the pride of Kalibo mauled a heckling fan.

Barrios cut the suspension short after Arboleda, a member of the 2006-07 Second Mythical selection and last season’s Defensive Player of the Year, showed “sincere efforts and genuine desire to project a positive and wholesome image to the public, particularly the youth."

“We also take note of your repeated expression of contriteness over the incident and the use of time under suspension in a positive and proactive manner instead of simply being ‘unproductive’ during your suspension," Barrios told Arboleda in a letter announcing the lifting of his suspension.

But Arboleda has to pay 10 percent of the gross of his monthly salary from May 15 to August 15, 2010 – the period remaining in the suspension penalty he should serve in full.

While under suspension, Arboleda told GMANews.TV that he got himself involved in several worthy activities for kids and even played a key role during the election period.

“I got myself involved in several cage clinics, including one with coach Norman Black. I asked the PBA if I could get myself in and they obliged," said Arboleda. “I submitted to them pictures and certificate of recognitions of my involvement."

During the elections, Arboleda was part of the Air21 logistic team.

“I was with the Air21 logistics team that went to Kalibo to help them carry voting equipment," he added.

Arboleda’s return is indeed a welcome development for coach Yeng Guiao and the Express, who are on a seven-game losing streak and languishing in the cellar of the 10-team standings with a 1-8 record.

Air21 president and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez welcomed this new dveelopment, saying his reinstatement will serve as a big morale booster to his team that has been struggling lately.

"Wynne is a big help. He's the heart and soul of the team and he is the leader among the players," said Arboleda. "I'm sure, the players will be very happy with his return."

Now, the bad news.

Guiao has a filed a week-long absence as coach of the Express, leaving the coaching duties to his long-time deputy Rhoel Nadurata and Johnny Tam.

Arboleda, the Express’ skipper, confirmed the news and also added that he might help give inputs to the coaching staff.

“Coach Yeng will be on leave for a week and will spend vacation with his family. He needs to take time out as he was very exhausted both from the election campaign and his coaching duties," said Arboleda. “But we will still use his system and I believe the system is already in place."

Sports Stars: You Win Some, You Lose Some

(From Manila Standard Today)

Along with the seasoned politicians and entertainers, former athletes and sports personalities also ran for office this year, and, as in any sporting event, there were winners and losers.

The biggest winner was boxing champ Manny Pacquiao, who scored an upset of sorts against a member of the influential Chiongbian clan in the fight for the lone congressional seat in the province of Sarangani. Pacquiao was leading against Roy Chiongbian with 87.75 percent of the election returns already tabulated.

Before Pacquiao, the most popular sports personality to ever hold a national political office was former Senator Robert Jaworksi, dubbed as the Living Legend of Philippine basketball.

Jaworski ran as an independent and was elected senator in 1988, but lost his reelection bid in 2004.

The other former athletes and sports personalities who made it to the winners circle’ for national office were re-electionist Pia Cayetano, a triathlete and marathon enthusiast, who is running sixth in the senatorial race, and television host Tito Sotto, a former national bowler, who is now ranked 9th in the Senate race.

For local positions, the winners were led by former national team coach and now head coach of Air21 in the Philippine Basketball Association Roseller “Yeng”  Guiao, who was re-elected as vice governor of Pampanga; ex-pro and San Sebastian College coach Renato “Ato” Agustin, who won as first-time councilor in the lone district of San Fernando City, Pampanga; former world boxing champion Luisito Espinosa, another first-timer who was elected councilor in the first district of Mandaluyong; ex-PBA pro Gerry Esplana, who was re-elected councilor in the first district of Valenzuela; ex-Crispa Redmanizer Fortunato “Atoy” Co, who was re-elected as councilor for the first district in Pasig; and ex-PBA player Jason Webb, who won as first-time councilor in the first district of Parañaque.

In Pasig City, former basketball player Yoyong Martirez was leading the three-way fight for vice mayor.

But not all sports figures were successful in their bids, with former councilor and former La Salle champion coach Franz Pumaren losing in his attempt to be elected congressman against Jorge Banal.

Former PBA player, referee and ex-Caloocan Vice Mayor Tito Varela lost his congressional bid in the First District of Caloocan City; former national player and coach Roehl Nadurata lost in his re-election bid as councilor for the Second District of Caloocan; former national coach and former councilor Arturo Valenzona lost in his bid to be elected councilor in the Fifth District of Manila; and ex-PBA superstar Paul “Bong” Alvarez, a first-timer, lost in his bid for the same position in Manila.

Priming

(From Business World)

Going into this year’s season-ending Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Conference, a lot was expected from the Rain or Shine Elastopainters. Following their breakthrough showing in the same tourney last year en route to a franchise-first top-four finish, the paint masters were deemed to elevate some more.

Halfway into the ongoing Fiesta however, Rain or Shine has yet to soar as expected. In eight games to date, the team has only a .500 record of 4-4 to show for.

But while the Elastopainters are somehow off the pace pundits have set for them, they are not exactly condemned to doom. Rather this writer would like to believe that the team is just priming and ready to make a go at it when it finds its footing.

I say so because despite its seeming "underachievement" Rain or Shine is not necessarily doing bad. It is posting steady numbers on both ends, enabling it to compete with the rest of the field with effectivity. Offensively, the Elastopainters are good for 91.1 points a game while at the same time limiting their opponents to just 90 points, showing a team that has a say on the tempo of matches each time.

Rain or Shine’s average losing deficit of 5.25 points, meanwhile, is a reflection of the team’s ability to stay in games, made all the more impressive by the fact that new faces fleck its roster.

Then there is the presence of a quality import in Jai Lewis. While the burly Lewis is not generating much buzz as he did last year in his first tour of duty in the PBA, still he is as effective as ever. His numbers of 18.9 ppg and 14.3 rpg have been sufficient to buoy Rain or Shine’s campaign, early struggles notwithstanding. More than the stats though, one thing going for Lewis is he has the confidence and trust of his teammates which has allowed for a more "harmonious" team dynamics, something other teams are still looking for at this stage.

Also making this writer bullish about Rain or Shine is the steady improvement of its players, in particular All-Star Gabe Norwood and Jay-R Reyes. Long known for their defensive prowess, the duo is showing much confidence on offense which has given the Elastopainters’ attack more flexibility. Currently gunning 13.4 and 11.2 points, respectively, Norwood and Reyes are proving to be steady offensive options for the team, in add-on to Lewis and Sol Mercado (17.1 ppg), which will be huge as they go deep in the tournament.

While Rain or Shine may not be creating much ripple just yet, observers should know better than overlooking them. The Elastopainters have a lot going for them and it could only be a matter of time when they start displaying their full strength.

Shift Pains

(From Business World)

In yet another game representative of how it has been for the team in the PBA Fiesta Conference, the Air21 Express faltered and failed to come through in the end game last Wednesday against the Barangay Ginebra Kings. It continued a thread for the Express which has led to an inauspicious 1-7 start, currently worst in the league.

To be fair, Air21 is a far better team than what its record suggests. It has enough pieces in its roster to be able to compete with the rest of the field. The thing about it though, is that it has yet to tie the loose ends to truly get its act together from start to finish.

Easily the most rejigged team in the Philippine Basketball Association this season, the Express are undergoing "shift pains." A quick look at their lineup will show practically a new team from that we were accustomed to seeing. The result? A group still finding its identity.

As per the Express’ numbers in the ongoing tournament, they are not exactly "stinking." Offensively, their 97.4 points per game average is still solid considering they have lost quality scorers like Ranidel De Ocampo, Arwind Santos and Gary David to trades in the last year. They have been doing it with balance scoring with Ronjay Buenafe (13.4 ppg) and Mike Cortez (10.2 ppg) leading the way for the locals and four others norming at least eight points each.

Defensively, the Express’ 103 points allowed norm may need some sprucing up alright but with the team taking pride in, and gearing their attack toward, a more run-and-gun approach, they can be somehow forgiven for not locking down their opponents.

Burying the team in right now really is Air21’s inability to put up a sustained fight, stemming from the fact that collectively it is still finding its groove back. The way it has been so far for the Express is that they show up in spurts, blowing hot and cold on both ends which has allowed their opponents to get the better of them.

Just look at their game against Ginebra on Wednesday where they allowed the game to slip from their grasp. Right in the thick of the fight for the most part, the Express went on an offensive stupor in the second half, including going scoreless for over 10 minutes at one point, to allow the Kings to control the game. While they did manage to spring back to life to make things close in the end, the Express by that time had already allowed themselves, like they did in most of their earlier games, to be at the mercy of end-game breaks which unfortunately did not go their way.

It has not helped also that Air21 has not had the luck of finding the right reinforcement for the team. To date it has changed imports two times which has undeniably affected continuity. First import Keena Young helped the team notched its lone win so far (against Barako Coffee) but in four games was found wanting offensively (18.75 ppg and 14.25 rpg) to carry the team. Then came Jason Forte who fared better than Young with his 23 points and 16.5 rebounds in two outings but was not the go-to guy the Express was hoping for. Their latest reinforcement, Reggie Larry (34 ppg and 12 rpg), seems to be a keeper but sans a victory to show for in two games so far, the verdict is still out on him.

So at the current rate things are going, until Air21 finds a way to soothe the "pains" its changes have brought, it may still find the going tough. But the team is not totally off as it has been competing. It just has to dig in some more to finally hit that consistency that all teams are going for.

Pro Cage Stars in Close Encounter With Sleek Mercedes Cars

(From Inquirer)

ARWIND SANTOS, THE REEDY San Miguel Beer forward, has been through every pressure-packed situation that basketball has to offer. He has fought memorable collegiate wars in front of jampacked, electric crowds. He has carried franchises on his shoulders. And now, he faces the tough task of keeping his minutes within a Beermen squad teeming with talent.

All that has toughened up the multitalented 6-foot-4 former Far Eastern U hotshot to the point that he takes on new challenges with an air of confident nonchalance.

On this particular Wednesday, however, Santos took one look at the test presented before him and he suddenly transformed into an inexperienced rookie.

“I’m nervous,” he admitted to the Inquirer.

Inside the plush, air-conditioned showroom of CATS Motors Philippines, Santos took a step back to admire a sleek Mercedes-Benz sedan, a sister-model of the car he was about to test drive that day.

“This is a Mercedes, after all. It’s not just any ordinary car,” he added. “It’s a serious car.”

While it’s true that the Mercedes-Benz is not just your ordinary vehicle, it has suffered because of the popular perception that it is a “serious” car. Sure, it is the perfect icon, a validation, of the serious work you put into your career. But who says the Mercedes-Benz can’t be a picture of sporting fun?

This was what 25-year-old Grace Enriquez wanted to emphasize with the latest promotional activity of CATS Motors, the Mercedes-Benz All-Star Drive. When she was a child, Enriquez told her parents that she would be driving a Benz one day; that it was the car she dreamed of owning.

Now, the bubbly publicist of CATS Motors cannot seem to comprehend why people think that the Benz isn’t for yuppies like her.

“If I had the money, I certainly would pick a Mercedes-Benz over any other car,” she declared.

And so to add a new dimension to the way people view the Benz, Enriquez invited some of the younger stars of the Philippine Basketball Association to drive different Mercedes models not just to savor the luxurious experience and safety features of the car, but to push its sporting limits to the hilt.

“We felt that this event would help the Benz reach out to a younger market without necessarily sacrificing its image among its regular buyers,” Enriquez explained.

Among those invited were Rain or Shine stalwarts Jay-R Reyes, Jeff Chan and Ryan Arana and Coca-Cola’s RJ Rizada. Also present was former college baller and current racing enthusiast Dominic Uy.

The celebrities were huddled together at the start for a brief lecture on the features of the Benz and given driving instructions by Georges and Kookie Ramirez, sons of racing great Pocholo Ramirez.

They learned terms like CGI (Charged Gasoline Injection), which packs the Benz with power never before seen in four-cylinder vehicles, and BlueEFFICIENCY, which is the automotive world’s answer to the growing Green Movement.

BlueEFFICIENCY is Daimler/Mercedes-Benz’s innovation, which makes the vehicles more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly.

The models that were put to the test were the C180 CGI, C200 CGI Avantgarde, E250 CGI, E300 and the ML350 CDI for the test drive.

First off was a straight drive to Alabang, to a private property in Daang Hari, which was set up for the slalom and braking events of the day. After receiving final convoy instructions, the players, along with CATS Motors officials and media representatives, drove off in threes.

Once at Daang Hari, the fun began.

“We let the players try out the Benz’s braking system. We had them run about 80 kph and floor the brakes just so they could feel the safety features of the car,” Enriquez related.

That wasn’t all.

“We also had them do slaloms, just to erase the perception that Mercedes-Benz vehicles have a problem with handling,” she added.

“It was a lot of fun,” Santos said after the event. “It’s the first time I really drove a Benz and I realized when you’re driving one, you can really keep your chin up.”

Moreover, after getting over the initial jitters of driving a Benz, the young PBA superstars looked comfortable in pushing the supposedly “serious” vehicle to its fun and sporty limits.

“I never thought you can do that with a Benz—driving fast and then braking suddenly,” Santos added, laughing. “And I even perfected the slaloms. It’s a great car. It’s sporty as well. Hopefully, I can afford one someday.”

That change of perception is exactly what Enriquez hoped for.

“Hopefully, through events like these, the market will grow an awareness that the Mercedes-Benz now has sportier options. And aside from being a ‘fun’ car, it is also loaded with safety features and really performs well,” said Enriquez.

With the way the PBA stars were hamming it up and trading high-fives while testing the Mercedes-Benz, that time may come sooner than later.

Canaleta Regains Slam Dunk Title

(From PBA)

The old slam-dunk champ reclaimed his crown, beating top-class rivals and a pretender.

B-Meg Derby Ace’s KG Canaleta was back on his old haunts, cheered on by peers and foes in winning the highly competitive 2010 PBA All-Star slam dunk competition at the Puerto Princesa Coliseum here.

Grace prevailed over power as Canaleta beat out Sta. Lucia’s Kelly Williams to reclaim the crown he lost to Rain or Shine’s Gabe Norwood in Manila last year.

Norwood took a shot at back-to-back championships but failed to make it past the elimination round, getting poor scores on his off-timing executions.

Also out after the eliminations was former PBL slam dunk champion JC Intal.

Derby Ace rookie Rico Maierhofer proved to be just a pretender but he was a welcome sight with his game antics.

Missed was Jarred Dillinger who opted out to concentrate on the Obstacle Challenge and the Rookies-Sophomores Bitz Game. The Talk ‘N Text Fil-Am forward provided fun in the competition last year.

“Meaningful ito, kasi talagang ang lakas ng competition,” said Canaleta, who the event thrice from 2005 to 2007.

The 6-foot-4 forward out of University of the East soared past three North All-Star ball boys and elegantly finished it with a right-handed dunk to beat Williams in a slam-off.

He did practically the same routine in two earlier rounds – the first over one man then the second over two men.

“Grabe ang pressure na ibinigay sa akin ni Kelly. Hindi na ako makapag-isip ng gagawin so pinahaba ko na lang ang tinalunan ko. Good thing nagustuhan ng tao at ng mga judges,” said Canaleta, now a four-time slam dunk king in the event where no one else has won more than two.

Will he go for a fifth championship next year? He said: “Mahirap mag-salita. Siguro three-point shootout naman.”

Canaleta barely topped the preliminary round with 95 points to Williams’ 94.

And when Canelata thought he had the championship in the bag with a perfect 50 in the first round of the finale, Williams came to force the slam-off with his own 50 drawn on an off-the-board thunderous two-handed reverse throw-down.

The Sta. Lucia ace then executed another two-hander on a 360-degree turn for 45 points.

On his turn, Canaleta ran from midcourt, soaring high to perform between-the-legs dunk that drew mild response from the crowd.

That prompted Canaleta to opt for a re-dunk.

He summoned three ball boys from the sideline and promptly got the crowd up on their feet.

Doing a perfect execution, Canaleta got another perfect score for the championship cheered on by the highly appreciative crowd in the venue.

PBA Undertakes Community Work

(From Manila Bulletin)

Games Saturday (Puerto Princesa Coliseum)
4:30 p.m. — Shooting Stars, Legends Shootout
5 p.m. — North All-Star vs South All-Star

PUERTO PRINCESA — Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner Sonny Barrios said Friday that the annual PBA All-Star Festivities is not just an event for the players to showcase their skills but an opportunity for the league to give back to the community.

Barrios and the PBA All-Star participants took part in different activities, from tree planting at the City Hall, to the painting of gutter curves on Junction 1 Rizal Avenue and Gawad Kalinga in Barangay Sicsican here courtesy of Rain or Shine.

“Like in every All-Star, of course we want to promote and share with our fans. But aside from showcasing their talents and skills as the best of the best in the country, this is also an opportunity for the league especially the players to show their human side, so to speak,” Barrios said.

“We want to share the blessings with the rest of our countrymen, particularly in the province,” the league commissioner added. “We got to interact with our fans. We also have outreach programs, the so-call corporate social responsibility. There’s more than just the game.”

The league also held free coaching and basketball clinics.

Philippine Cup champion coach Ryan Gregorio of B-Meg Derby Ace conducted the coaching clinic to some 50 local coaches while multi-titled mentor Norman Black led the basketball clinic that gathered 60 10 to 15 years old participants.

PBA referees chief Ramil Cruz and technical consultant Romy Guevara also conducted a referees’ clinic at the Puerto Princesa Coliseum.

“This is a good opportunity for us to impart our knowledge to them, like for me coaching,” Gregorio, who will coach the North All-Star team, said. “This is just one way of giving back and sharing to other aspiring coaches.”

Air21’s Renren Ritualo will lead a Book Reading at the coliseum with several children. This program “Read to Lead” is actually a regular activity of the PBA even in Metro Manila.

Meantime, a regular board meeting is set this Sunday, according to PBA chairman Lito Alvarez of Air21. One of the agendas is the remaining programs under Alvarez this season including the possible approval of expansion with the addition of two teams.

The All-Star Game between the North and South teams is set this Sunday at 5 p.m.

The game resumes with the regular North versus South encounter after the previous All-Star Game last year featured the PowerAde National Team against three PBA Selections.

Old Warriors Taulava, Menk Ready for the All-Stars

(From GMA News)

The Rock Asi Taulava and Major Pain Eric Menk together in one team.

That’s definitely a very formidable frontline combination.

The two elder citizens of the Philippine Basketball Association All-Stars will be the main men up front for the South selection this Sunday in Puerto Princesa.

Taulava, a 6-foot-9 slotman from the Coca-Cola Tigers and mainstay of the all-pro national team since 2002, and Menk, a 6-foot-6 center of Barangay Ginebra, are the oldest players of today’s batch of All-Stars.

The Fil-Tongan Taulava, a two-time Most Valuable Player in the All-Star Game (2004 and 2006), just turned 37 last March 2, but remains to be the most dominant local player in the league.

Menk will turn 36 this August. Since winning the Most Valuable Player award in the PBA’s first transition season -- the 2004-05 season – his career took a tailspin when he suffered a series of injuries.

But Menk worked his way up in 2008 and even led the Gin Kings to the Fiesta Cup crown against the Air21 Express in front of a record-crowd of 22,000-plus fans. During the deciding seventh game of the series, he finished with 21 points and 14 rebounds

Menk will be appearing on his ninth PBA All-Star.

Asked about the team’s chances in the coming event, Taulava had a modest objective – go out and entertain the crowd.

“The All-Star Game is for the fans. It’s a perfect avenue for us to entertain them and give them a treat," said Taulava.

“It’s also a good chance for us to get away from our usual routine wherein we’re tied up within a system. It’s more of a free flowing game in the All-Stars," he added.

Taulava and Menk will bolster the South All-Stars which will also have former MVPs Kelly Williams of Sta. Lucia Realty and reigning long-distance shootout king James Yap of B-Meg Derby Ace and Cyrus Baguio of Barangay Ginebra.

Size and heft will be the advantage of the South All-Stars against the starters from the North All-Stars, which will be composed of last season’s Rookie of the Year Gabe Norwood, energetic players Marc Pingris and Paul Artadi of B-Meg Derby Ace and JC Intal and Jayjay Helterbrand of Barangay Ginebra.

Also included in the North All-Stars, who will be handled by Philippine Cup champion coach Ryan Gregorio of Derby Ace are rookie Rico Maierhofer of B-Meg Derby Ace, Willie Miller of Alaska, Ranidel de Ocampo and Mac Cardona of Talk N Text, Sol Mercado of Rain or Shine, Ryan Reyes of Sta. Lucia and Arwind Santos of San Miguel Beer.

The reserves for the South-All Stars, which will be handled by veteran mentor Tim Cone, are Jimmy Alapag of Talk N Text, Roger Yap of B-Meg Derby Ace, Reynel Hugnatan, Sonny Thoss, and Joe Devance of Alaska, Ronald Tubid of Barangay Ginebra, and Dondon Hontiveros of San Miguel Beer.

Warm Welcome Awaits PBA Stars in Puerto Princesa

(From GMA News)

A warm welcome amidst a festive atmosphere awaits the PBA All-Stars delegation in the city of Puerto Princesa, which plays hosts to the annual spectacle for the very first time this weekend.

The PBA contingent will arrive in this tourist haven Thursday afternoon.

Staging the mid-season classic, according to Mayor Edward Hagedorn, has been a cherished dream of the province as it longed to showcase the hospitality of the Palawenos, and at the same time, promote the city as an emerging sports tourism capital in the country.

The All-Star festivity is set from April 23 to 25 with the competition reverting back to its old old format pitting the North against the South.

“For a long time now, the people of Puerto Princesa have been longing to host the PBA All-Star game. Kaya naman ako ay nagagalak na nabigyan kami ng pagkakataon na maging punong abala ng 2010 PBA All-Stars," Hagedorn said.

The popular mayor said so highly-anticipated the event is that he expects a full-house crowd at the 10,000-seating capacity Puerto Princesa Coliseum for the All-Star game itself.

“Mainit na mainit na hinihintay na ito ng mamamayan ng Puerto Princesa," he added.

The All-Star hoopla is the latest sports event Puerto Princesa is hosting, having staged the likes of Palarong Pambansa, Asian cycling championships, the boxing Olympic qualifying meet, a leg of the Petron Ladies beach volleyball tournament and even a slew of PBA games in the past

At the same time, the province will be taking the opportunity to showcase the beauty and potential of Palawan as a possible sports tourism capital, especially with its famous underground river among the 28 finalists for the Seven New Wonders of the World.

“Wala kaming mga industrial companies, mining o logging dito. Ang tangi naming maipagmamalaki ay ang aaming turismo. So sana maging daan ang All-Star upang mai-promote namin ang Palawan bilang sports tourism capital ng bansa.

Derby Ace stalwart and top fan choice James Yap and Kelly Williams lead a South team seeking to score a repeat over its North counterpart, bannered by JayJay Helterbrand and Marc Pingris, following its 163-158 win in overtime two years ago in Bacolod City.

The North vs South All-Star Game is scheduled on Sunday at the Puerto Princesa Coliseum.

Other highlights of the three-day mid-summer spectacle are the Rookies vs Sophomore Blitz Game as well as the skills events – 3-point shootout, slam dunk contest, obstacle challenge -- which will take place on Friday.

Salud, Jawo to Gracw Foundation Week Climax

(From PBA)

Luminaries from the birth year of the Philippine Basketball Association will continue to cast their glitter as the league’s 35th Foundation Week celebration comes to a climactic end Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Former PBA commissioner Rodrigo ‘Rudy’ Salud, the brilliant lawyer-sportsman who served as legal counsel to founding PBA commissioner Leo Prieto in 1975 after nine ballclubs banded to form Asia’s first professional basketball league, will grace the affair

along with members of the some of the league’s pioneer teams.

The man who sat at the helm of the PBA during its golden years from 1988 to 1991 is expected to be joined by Commissioner Sonny Barrios and other league officials in welcoming invited pioneers led by Robert Jaworski, Ompong Segura and Gil Cortez from Toyota, and Egay Gomez from U-Tex.

The PBA awaits confirmation of some of the players’ presence, including Fernandez, but legendary Crispa Redmanizer hotshot Fortunato Co, who played in the PBA's maiden season, has sent word of his arrival.

Also invited is William ‘Bogs’ Adornado, the league’s first MVP awardee.

Barrios, along with former commissioner Jun Bernardino and legal counsel Butch Cleofe, both of whom have passed away, has said often that Salud has been their “mentor” in the PBA and “big brother” on a personal level.

“Early on in my career, he impressed upon me the need for the commissioner to make decisions with competence, objectivity, and a high sense of fairness based on the PBA constitution and by-laws and playing rules,” said Barrios, named the seventh commissioner two years ago.

“You can't go wrong, Sonny, if you approach issues that way,” Barrios recalled being told by Salud, who immortalized the line “the interest of the PBA fan is paramount.”

The one responsible for crafting not only the charter of the PBA but also that of the World Boxing Council, Salud also pointed out, Barrios said, that “I should be prepared, when necessary, to have the resolve to be firm on decisions as Commissioner, especially on controversial issues, as not all decisions by the Commissioner are popular.”

“He is a pillar of the PBA,” Barrios added. “The PBA is indeed fortunate to have Comm. Rudy Salud as an integral part of its foundation and formative years.”

Early Updates

(From Business World)

The season-closing Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Conference is about three weeks old and competition is picking up pace. Some teams are off to a fast start while others are still searching for their groove and have yet to make headway.

Below are early updates on the goings-on in the current tournament.

Among the early pacesetters in the import-laden Fiesta Conference are the defending champions San Miguel Beermen, Coca-Cola Tigers, Barangay Ginebra Kings and Talk ’N Text Tropang Texters. All teams have winning records of .600 onwards and slowly building "cushions" to carry them in what is expected to be rough roads ahead.

While still far from the immovable force they are on paper, the Beermen (4-1) are finding ways to win games this early. Albeit foul-prone, import Gabe Freeman is still his high-energy self (20.4 ppg and 18.8 rpg) that the rest of the Beermen take their cue from. But other San Miguel players are also showing the way, in particular, new addition Alex Cabagnot who has been key with his 12.8 ppg and 5.8 apg numbers in his floor general role.

Sporting joint 3-1 records are Coca-Cola and Ginebra, who are both benefiting from reinforcements who are seemingly for keeps. The Tigers brought back James Penny in the hopes of reclaiming PBA relevance and the latter is obliging as he has been stud-like with 30.2 ppg, 12.5 rpg, 1.25 spg and 2.5 bpg on top of the leadership he gives on the court. The Kings, for their part, have the tough Awvee Storey (26.5 ppg and 20.2 rpg) who has infused toughness to the team’s ailing frontcourt to complement its steady backcourt play.

Started slow but Talk ’N Text (3-2) is getting better as it finds the system that suits its roster. With the do-it-all Shawn Daniels (15.8 ppg, 12.6 rpg, 2 spg and 2 bpg) on hand, the Texters find themselves having a more balanced attack that has seen at least six players churning out double-figure numbers each time.

Those still figuring their way in the tournament are the Rain or Shine Elastopainters who are carding a 2-2 record; Air21 Express, who have recently replaced original import Keena Young with Jason Forte to get back on track, are at 1-3; and the Barako Coffee Energy Masters and Sta. Lucia Realtors who are tied at 1-4.

Divergent paths

Afforded an extended break than the rest of the field after going deep in the previous conference, the Derby Ace Llamados (formerly Purefoods) and Alaska Aces are going divergent paths so far, with one playing crisp as ever and the other having their struggles.

Philippine Cup champs Llamados are the de facto leaders in the Fiesta Conference with an unblemished record of 2-0. They have certainly taken off quite well from their title-clinching ways previously and playing steady ball on both ends. Import Lorrenzo Wade (24.5 ppg and 10.5 rpg) has been a good fit. The play, however, of forward KG Canaleta (15 ppg) has been huge for Derby Ace as he has taken the slack for the convalescing Kerby Raymundo.

The Aces, meanwhile, are toiling with a 0-2 card. Including their sweep by the Llamados in the Philippine Cup, they are now 0-6 in their last six games. Alaska has a good import though in Diamon Simpson (28.5 ppg and 20.5 rpg) but local support (especially in the frontline) has been wanting to date as well as endgame composure.

While it is still early to call the outcome of the Fiesta race at this point, we can see that patterns are slowly being established. Who holds ground and who doesn’t, that we will find out as the tournament progresses.

PBA Legends Recall League's Greatest Moments

(From GMA News)

For 35 years, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has been the country’s premier professional cage league and became one of the reasons why we became a "basketball-crazy nation."

PBA legends and members of the league’s 25 Greatest Players – like Bogs Adornado, Atoy Co and four-time most valuable player Alvin Patrimonio – as well as coaches and officials who became part of the PBA’s success shared their most memorable moments in the league that we grew up watching.

"There were a lot of great memories while I’m playing in the PBA," Adornado told GMANews.TV. "All those championships were memorable. The last 16 seconds of the game between U-Tex and Toyota, the time when the legendary Baby Dalupan designated me to become a point guard in a championship series which we’ve won and also the third MVP which I’ve won, were indeed memorable."

The 1980 Open Conference finals between U-Tex and Toyota proved to be a classic. Down by four, 94-90, with 16 seconds left in the game, the Wranglers completed yet one of the greatest comebacks in PBA history by forcing overtime and winning the game in the process, 99-98, to win the crown.

Adornado, who just transferred to the Wranglers after being released by Crispa that same conference, played a key role in the series along with Lim Eng Beng, and imports Glen McDonald and Aaron James.

In the 1979 All-Filipino finals, Adornado, who just recovered from an injury, played point guard for the Redmanizers during their title series against the Toyota Tamaraws. Crispa won the series, 3-1.

"It wasn’t in the game plan. I was surprised because I just recovered from an injury and coach Baby inserted me in the starting unit to play point guard, the first time in my career I played that position," said the PBA MVP of the 1975, 1976 and 1981 seasons.

Co, Adornado’s former teammate, could not forget the time when Crispa and Toyota players really hated each other.

According to basketball historian Atty. Percy Flores of MYPBA.com, on April 17, 1977, Crispa edged Toyota but the game was marred by a free-for-all.

"The main protagonists of the post-game fight were Co and Ramon Fernandez of Toyota," said Flores." Two days later, the two teams were invited by then Metrocom chief Prospero Olivas for questioning at the Fort Bonifacio, where they were detained for one night."

"It was the only time in PBA history that players were detained because of a fight. No charges were pressed. They were given lectures on the virtues of the New Society and how fights like this spoil the thrust and image of the Marcos dictatorship of a reformed and disciplined Philippine society," added Flores.

Co said the Crispa-Toyota rivalry pushed players of both teams to give their best.

"We’re rivals and we have a saying that we can not lose to Toyota. But as the years pass, we became friends. Especially Mon (Fernandez) since we became teammates while playing for Manila Beer," said Co.

More than just a PBA grandslam coach, Norman Black was a long-time import in the league. He started his PBA career as Tefilin’s reinforcement in 1981 then transferred to San Miguel the following year and transformed the Beermen to become a dynasty from the late 80s to early 90s.

As a player and a coach, Black had so many interesting stories to tell.

"The 1988 Open Conference finals against Purefoods bannered by David Thirdkill and locals like Mon Fernandez and rookies Jojo Lastimosa, Jerry Codinera and Glenn Capacio, was indeed memorable. We were down 3-2, but we went on to win the last two games to win the championship," said Black. “Of course, being a grandslam coach and being inducted in the PBA Hall of Fame was indeed memorable as well."

League transformation
Commissioner Sonny Barrios joined the PBA in 1984 and saw the transformation of the league to become the premier sports entertainment.

"On top of my list is the PBA All-Star Game in 1989 when the Veterans won over the Rookies, Sophomores and Juniors squad. A lot of fans were certainly given a treat, especially the last play involving (Robert) Jaworski and Fernandez," said Barrios.

Prior to that game, Fernandez and Jaworski – teammates in Toyota – became rivals after the Tamaraws disbanded in 1984.

The Jaworski faction went to Gilbey’s Gin, which later became Ginebra and turned out to become the league’s ultimate never-say-die team while Fernandez went to Beer Hausen, which bought the Toyota franchise.

Tension seems to rise every time their teams played against each other. Only legendary coach Dalupan managed to break the rift between Jaworski and Fernandez when he paired the two league giants in the Veterans team during the 1989 All-Star game.

Fernandez and Jaworski’s reconciliation also paved the way for another partnership in 1990 when the PBA formed their first-ever all-pro team to the Beijing Asiad. Jaworski was coach of the team and Fernandez the team captain.

For Barrios, it was indeed another memorable experience for the PBA.

"Well, the first all-pro team where we finished silver was unforgettable. I was with the league when San Miguel and Alaska won grandslam titles and was part of the committee that selected the 25 Greatest Players," said Barrios. "On a personal note, my appointment as officer in charge in 2007 and as commissioner in 2008 was the highlight of my career."

Purefoods board governor and league’s vice chairman of the board Rene Pardo was convinced the Crispa-Toyota rivalry was one of the biggest reasons for the PBA’s success.

"It was a memorable experience when Purefoods joined the PBA in 1988. Then I was appointed team manager in 1999 and it was also a great experience winning three championships for the team under my watch," said Pardo.

Patrimonio said he grew up watching legendary players like Jaworski and Fernandez of Toyota as well as Adornado, Co and Philip Cezar of Crispa.

"I’m so grateful experiencing these things while playing in the PBA. In a way, the time when I entered the PBA I had the chance to play with the league’s pioneers up to the time when teams started hiring Fil-Ams," said Patrimonio, who together with Fernandez are the only four-time MVP winners.

While playing for Purefoods, Patrimonio has won six championships on top of individual accolades and being chosen to play for the all-pro PBA team three times in his career. He played in 600 straight games to earn the moniker of the league’s Ironman.

Air21 coach Yeng Guiao, one of the most experienced mentors in the PBA today, saw how the PBA transformed. "I believe, I have lasted five commissioners since I joined the PBA. That’s why I saw how the league changed."

"I was there during the time when Jaworski and Fernandez were still playing, and during the peak of Patrimonio, Lastimosa, Allan Caidic and Samboy Lim. When I returned to the PBA coaching scene, it was the Fil-Ams who became the center of attention. So all those changes I’ve seen them in my 20 years in the PBA," said Guiao.

PBA Pioneers at Anniversary Celebration

(From Manila Standard Today)

PLAYERS from four of the nine pioneering ballclubs of the Philippine Basketball Association will be making a rare appearance in a reunion date next week to highlight the league’s 35th Foundation Week celebration set April 9 to 18.

“This will be the highlight of the entire Foundation Week celebration,” said PBA Commissioner Renauld ‘Sonny’ Barrios. “We will be turning back the hands of time and paying tribute to these greats that evening.”

On April 9, 1975, an estimated crowd of 18,000 packed the Araneta Coliseum for a double-header that saw Mariwasa Noritake turn back Concepcion Carrier, 101-98, and Toyota edge U-Tex, 105-101.

Mariwasa was led by American import Cisco Oliver—he of the classic Alaska Milk commercial—who scored 48 points, followed by the 17 of former Crispa Redmanizer great Adriano ‘Jun’ Papa.

Jimmy Noblezada, to be christened later as Iron Man, poured 24 points for Concepcion, while Jimmy Mariano added 17. Joy Dionisio, who scored the PBA’s first basket, had 10 points.

Mariwasa took the first quarter, 29-21, and never trailed at the end of the next three periods.

In the main game, fast break finisher Ompong Segura scored 23 points for the Comets and Francis ‘Mr. Clutch’ Arnaiz added 22. Big Boy Reynoso had 17, Ramon Fernandez hit 13, and Robert Jaworski scored 11 points in a wildly applauded debut by Toyota.

Leading U-Tex was Larry Mumar and Danny Florencio, another Redmanizer legend, with 29 points each, backstopped by former Crispa mainstay Rudolf Kutch with 13 points.

Both teams were tied at the close of the first 12 minutes and the game went down the wire before Toyota emerged victorious in the end.

Invited to the reunion bash are players from Mariwasa, including Hubert Filipinas, Jesse Sullano, Luke Dacula Dator, Epoy Alcantara, Mark Arriola, Edmund Tierra and Ulysses Rodriguez.

Expected from Concepion, other than Noblezada, Mariano and Dionisio, are Alfonso Mora, Lucio Lim, Ramon Lucindo, Roel Deles, Jesus Dungo and Francisco Henares.

Bingo Bola Treat For Fans Starts Easter Sunday At The Big Dome

(From PBA)

PBA fans, here’s a treat that you will surely enjoy.

Starting on Easter Sunday, April 4,  PBA fans who love to watch the games live will have an opportunity to win cash prizes as the pro league launches its latest promo – PBA Bingo Bola.

Joining is easy. Just buy a ticket to the games and redeem it for Bingo cards at the designated booths inside the venue.

Each ticket, regardless of section, entitles the holder to one Bingo card. Holders of complimentary tickets are disqualified from playing.

As much as P35,000 is at stake every game day at the Araneta Coliseum and Cuneta Astrodome.

“Our fans are very dear to us. That’s why we always think of ways to make them happy. I’m sure they will love and enjoy our latest treat,” said PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios.

A representative from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will supervise all draws to ensure an honest and clean contest.

Air21 Oozes With Optimism

(From Business Mirror)

A “NEW-LOOK” Air21 intends to create a dent in the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference.

Beefed up by American Keena Young, the Express are dead set to make the finals of the import-laden tournament, a goal they intend to achieve with their new acquisitions. The Express made the conference finals only to lose to Barangay Ginebra in a classic seven-game duel two years ago.

Air21 head coach Yeng Guiao is upbeat with the talent he has available and the skills Young, a Brigham Young University product, can bring to the team.

“I think we have the necessary ingredient to again contend for the championship,” said Guiao on Monday, as members of the teams were formally introduced at the Burger King branch at Glorietta in Makati City.

“We have upgraded the talent from the last conference. The determination is now there and we have good chemistry. We are really looking forward to the tournament,” he added.

The team entered the PBA in 2002 as FedEx Express. After three seasons, it changed its brand name to Air21. In 2009 the team was called Burger King, the name it carried until the recent Philippine Cup.

Air21 chairman Bert Lina and wife Sylvia Lina, and team manager and current PBA board chairman Lito Alvarez were also present in the event

“There’s no other way but the championship,” Sylvia Lina addressed Guiao. “We have the cream of the crop and we’re very excited to have them in this team.”

The Express are parading returnees Renren Ritualo, Mike Cortez, Richard Alvarez and Doug Kramer, who all came in via separate deals with Talk ’N Text and Barangay Ginebra.

Wynnie Arboleda, who is serving a full-season ban for attacking a fan earlier in the season, was also introduced by the event’s host. Arboleda is all set to appeal his case to the Commissioner’s Office on Thursday.

“What was lacking last conference is our point guard spot na iniwan ni Wynnie, that’s why it necessitated us to get a top class point guard like Mike,” said Guiao.

“And the other weakness we had in the previous tournament was our outside shooting, but now with Renren, I think we will be fine,” he added.

The former national team mentor, however, said their campaign would also depend largely on how Young will be able to quickly adjust to the Express system, which includes his blending with the locals.

But the fiery coach admitted he is satisfied with what Young has been displaying so far.

“He’s not flashy but very effective, and shoots with a higher percentage,” said Guiao. “What I’ll be asking from him now is to work on both ends of the court. We don’t need him to score more than 30 points every night. He must be the steady factor for the team.”

The Express used to have Shawn Daniels as import but Guiao said Young is the kind of reinforcement the team needs to be able to run and defend well against the prolific imports of the other teams like Gabe Freeman of San Miguel Beer, which they will face on Wednesday. Daniels is now with Talk ’N Text.

Guiao is now on his second year with the Lina franchise and has become more optimistic than ever.

“I won my first title in my second year with Swift. With Red Bull, it was also in my second year when I won the title. Hopefully the trend will continue,” he said.

Meanwhile, Arboleda has already secured the signatures of the team captains of the 10 PBA teams who expressed their support to the beleaguered player.

“Sana makalaro ulit ako this conference kaya sana mapagbigyan ni commissioner [Sonny Barrios] ang appeal ko,” the 32-year-old Arboleda said.

The appeal, which bears the signatures of the team captains, will be given to Barrios on Thursday. Barrios said will study Arboleda’s appeal once he receives the letter.