Revisiting the Forecast

It was the 9th of September when I posted my fearless forecast about the PBA Philippine Cup 2011. And we are now in the verge of finishing the eliminations with two or three games remaining for each team. According to the PBA Office, the start of the playoffs will be on December 14, 2011.

So let me revisit those forecast and evaluate it whether it happened or may not after all.

1. Talk N' Text and Petron Blaze Boosters will again advance to the semi finals and will have their "finals showdown III" to determine which of them is more superior in terms of championship run.

Yes, they are now the top 2 teams in the standings, Petron with 9-3 win-loss card while Talk N Text with 8-3 win-loss card. But Petron still have two games left (BGK and TNT), while Talk N Text will have also two games against Petron and BGK. BMEG Llamados is catching up in the standings, so if BMEG and Petron will continue to sweep their remaining games, Talk N Text might fall in the third spot if they will loss a single game.

2. Coach Tim Cone will return to the PBA. He will formalize a deal to handle the BMEG Llamados in the start of Commissioner's Cup.

Yes, he returned to the PBA too early as predicted. He was appointed as the head coach of BMEG days before the start of the Phil. Cup. He steered the Llamados on a 6 game winning streak as of this moment.

3. Alaska will face a downfall in their campaign in this conference. Coach Joel Banal won't be able to execute the triangle system effectively and might change their strategy in Commissioner's Cup.

They are in the bottom of the standings. Having a 3-9 win-loss card, they might join Shopinas in an early vacation. The team is on a slump after posting 2 consecutive wins. Even though the team is armed with a very balance line-up, but still Joel Banal won’t able to solve the right formula for the Aces this Phil. Cup.

4. Paul Lee will dominate among the 2011 Rookies in statistical points. Coach Yeng Guiao will fully utilize Lee in every games. He might be the face of the Rain or Shine Franchise.

With Chris Lutz being sideline with hamstring injury, JV Casio is still struggling to fit in the Powerade system and even Marcio Lassiter and the rest of Powerade is on the verge of facing early exit in this conference, Paul Lee might dominate the rookie scene this playoffs. Lee is 3rd in the statistical points with 14.92 points, behind Lutz’ 18 ppg and Lassiter’s 15.67 ppg.

5. Cyrus Baguio and Gabe Norwood will be traded to each other.

This trade might happen after the eliminations or before the start of the Commissioner’s Cup. Cyrus Baguio is not the Skyrus anymore after the team lost their head coach, while Gabe Norwood is playing below par of his game recently. We all know that Baguio is the “Yeng Guiao” type of a player and Norwood might be the missing piece that the Aces is looking for after the departure of Joe Devance last season.

6. Willie Miller will lead the league in statistical points.

Gary David’s 21 ppg made him the number one leader in SP’s. Willie Miller, however, is in the 15th spot with 14.55 ppg.

7. Arwind Santos will win the Best Player of the Conference Award.

As of this moment, Arwind Santos is the leading candidate for the BPOC award.

8. Joseph Yeo will be traded to Shopinas Clickers in the middle of the season for future picks.

Joseph Yeo redeemed himself when Chris Lutz was sidelined because of injury. Since the team is winning and Yeo is playing good basketball compared to his performance last season, there is no reason to trade him to Shopinas.

9. Shopinas Clickers will be the first team to be eliminated.

With a 0-12 record, coach Franz Pumaren might take an early vacation to regroup his team and find the best import available for the next conference.

10. The Final Four: Talk N Text vs. Rain or Shine, Petron Blaze Boosters vs. BMEG Llamados

If Rain or Shine will end their slump in their remaining games, the chances are high for this scenario will happen. If not, Meralco Bolts might spoil the party and it will be RSA vs MVP Final Four this conference.

11. Alex Crisano will be cut by Powerade after the elimination round.

Alex Crisano is considered as one of the energetic players in the Powerade camp, second to Mr. Pure Energy, Gary David. Crisano displayed a good behavior this conference, he might continue wearing the Tiger’s jersey this season.

12. Noli Eala and Snow Badua will end their fight, and Snow will greet Noli Eala most of the time in his TV Show.

They must settle their issues. Next…

13. Japeth Aguilar will get injured during the semi-final round because he cannot stand the banging inside the paint.

His team is already been plagued with various injuries. I hope he will be free from any injuries because Ali Peek is still recuperating from an accident.

14. Jason Castro will be the face of Talk N Text.

Yes, indeed he is. He is averaging close to 16 points per game and registered some 20 plus points in some of their games. The lone star of TNT is carrying the team and he is the biggest asset of Chot Reyes.

15. Jayjay Helterbrand will retire after the Philippine Cup.

We will see if this going to happen. However, Jayjay still got the handles and might re-consider his decision and finish the season with another championship.

Sweet November

We are nearing the Playoffs and most of the teams are fighting for their rightful spot in the team standings. The month of November is indeed a very memorable one for us PBA fans. This is the month where all PBA teams exposed their abilities to counter each of the opposing team to have a safe place when the playoffs come.

So let us have a rundown on how November played a vital role for the PBA:

1. Petron Blaze Boosters and BMEG Llamados: “Perfect November”

After suffering consecutive losses, both Blaze Boosters and Llamados posted 6 game winning streaks this month. Petron is on the top of the standings with 9-3 win-loss card, while BMeg is on a solo third with 8-4 card.

After three consecutive losses, Coach Ato and the rest of the Boosters regroup and restarted their engines to continue their high octane offense and suffocating defense to climb all the way to the top of the standings. Arwind Santos continue to play consistently, Alex Cabagnot showed maturity and excellent decision making, Denok Miranda is beasting the other point guards and posted some high numbers during the month. Although the team is not playing Chris Lutz in most of their games this month, Joseph Yeo miraculously “risen” and proved once again that he is still the “Ninja”.

Coach Tim Cone and the Llamados defy all odds in learning the triangle, and their hard work resulted to another 6 game winning streak for the team. James Yap is arguably the best player in the league for this month. He averaged 22 points per game (all in 6 games) and a whopping 85% FT percentage.

2. The slump of Rain or Shine

After posting 7 wins in 8 games, they are on a 4 game losing streak this month. One of the missing links for the team is Gabe Norwood. If you remember an ROS game, Yeng Guiao “benched” Norwood in the last quarter. Well, since Paul Lee is emerging as one of the stars in ROS and Jeff Chan is on a roll, maybe it’s time for Norwood to go. Hmmm Baguio-Norwood trade?

3. Allein Maliksi, SOLD: Barako Bull

As expected, Barako Bull traded Allein Maliksi to Ginebra in a three team deal which also involves BMEG. The Barako Bull received 2013 picks and BGK’s benched star, Jimbo Aquino. So, let us cross our fingers for Dylan Ababou that he will last as a Barako for at least one year.

4. Barangay Ginebra’s Business

After acquiring two gifted players which can be their savior this conference, Allein Maliksi and Rico Maierhofer is now on the injured list. The blockbuster trade made in the mid-November raised some eyebrows of their fans because those two players whom they acquired are considered as “damaged goods”. Both of them had a history of ACL injuries and still not 100 percent to play after they have been acquired.

Mark Caguioa’s comment about their role in the team also ignited the BGK fans especially on the part of their head coaches, Jong and Siot. Mark is questioning the player rotation and the playing time given to them by their coaches.

And lastly, before the month ended, Rudy Hatfield expressed (once again) that he will come back and play for the Gin Kings. Enough of that Rudy! Just leave BGK alone…

5. Talk N Text’s injuries

Not bad for a team that is in the second in the team standings, and yet most of their players are in the injured list. The only bright spot for the team are Jason Castro, Harvey Carey and Kelly Williams. We do pray that TNT will have their complete roster when the playoffs come for Chot Reyes to stop tweeting that they are the underdogs and the reason why they lost every single game is because of injuries.

Bubbling under:

6. Shopinas on a roll (of being eliminated)

7. Alaska Aces facing a worst record this conference.

8. Powerade Tigers will to survive.

Let’s play “Thoss-Coin”

Alaska Aces is on the verge of getting an early elimination in the Philippine Cup 2011 this 37th season of the PBA. Having a win-loss card of 1 – 7, the second most number of championships (with 13 among the active PBA teams right now) is having trouble in their system even in the start of their campaign.

Last off-season, Tim Cone expressed his sentiments on leaving his team because of some personal matters and team owner, Fred Uytengsu gave Cone the signal to leave and quickly appointed Assistant Coach Joel Banal to take over the team.

Adding insult to injury, after a week or two, we saw some photos of Tim Cone handling the drills of the BMEG Llamados and before the season opening of the PBA, the management made an announcement that Tim Cone is the BMEG’s new head coach.

Without their “original” mentor, the Aces find it too difficult to climb up to the top of the standings. I think this is the worst record of this team since Tim Cone handled the team for almost two decades.

The latest buzz about the team is that Mr. WSU called an emergency meeting to discuss about the team’s performance after eight games. One of the agenda on this meeting is to convince one of their franchise players to stay with the team and according to some insiders, that player is “The Boss” Sonny Thoss.

Thoss, is one of the backbone of the Aces since drafting him 5th overall by the Alaska Aces in 2004. One of the pillars of the triangle offense in the team, he is one of the coveted players of every team in the PBA. In the Philippine Cup 2011, he is averaging 16 points and 8 caroms per game, and one of the consistent players in the Aces’ roster.

With trade issues evolving in the Philippine Basketball Community, Barangay Ginebra would like to add Thoss in their lineup. Also, Thoss’ former mentor, Tim Cone, expressed that he also want him to be in the team but there are no discussions or talks made by him and Thoss as of this moment.

Game Face

According to Snow Badua’s tweet, Plan B is on the review phase.
Before the trade between the triple B’s (BGK – BBE – BMEG) was approved, another trade is in the making which involves BGK, Petron and Alaska. There are several names floating and it includes Sonny Thoss.

So, which is the best destination for The Boss if ever the trade will push through?

For Barangay Ginebra, this is the upgrade that they are looking for. It’s been a long time since the Kings have a decent Center after Eric Menk. They already have Rico Maierhofer, and adding Thoss will make the front court of the Gin Kings more deadly.

I don’t see Petron joining the tug of war in order to get Thoss. Ato Agustin is set to acquire his beloved player any time this season.

The only hindrance for this trade to push through is the willingness of Mr. Uytengsu to transact with SMC. After the “Tim Cone Piracy”, maybe WSU will think twice in dealing his player to SMC and might go to MVP to seek some “offers”.

What Went Wrong, Petron?

If you remember guys, I wrote an article about the high octane efficiency of Petron Blaze Boosters after the team winning their first three- game assignment in the 37th season of the PBA.

But after that, they dropped their last three games against the two MVP teams: Meralco Bolts and Talk N Text Texters (both with a 10 point margin), and Powerade Tigers, after allowing Gary David scoring 42 points in that game.

So, the fans are asking…Petron, what went wrong? The killer instinct of the team is the missing link in this conference.

Before the season opening of the PBA, the team acquired valuable players via draft, trades and free-agency. They got back Dondon Hontiveros, but got injured on his first game as a Booster, alongside with Carlos Sharma, who played well in the first two games, but suddenly, he fell in love on his new found arsenal (outside shooting). Chris Lutz, the third overall pick in the 2011 PBA Draft, although playing marvelously this conference but the drawback; he is playing on an average of 38-40 minutes per game and he is not an import huh. Rob Reyes, acquired via FA, is still need to find himself in the rotation of Petron because of the presence of Santos, Baclao, Sharma and Ildefonso. The latest acquisition, Axel Doruelo, will be the third PG of the team and I have no idea about this player.

Game Face

So Petron, what went wrong?

One of the things to be considered on this team is they are undermanned. Jay Washington, Rabeh Al-Husseini, Dondon Hontiveros is still nursing with their injuries. If these guys were healthy at the start of the conference, the team might be on the top of the standings.
Alex Cabagnot and Denok Miranda playing together will hurt the team because there are no available PGs that will complement the team if one of them got injured (like what happened in the PBB – TNT game where Denok did not play). I don’t think that Doruelo will give Acab and Denok substantial minutes in the bench.

Too bad that Penissi, Hubalde, Duncil and Salvacion is now gone on the Petron side. They are the type of players that will give the team the suffocating defense that they needed in their last three games.

Coach Ato Agustin must trust his bench every game. Their first five is averaging 30 plus minutes every game and it is not a good sign for the team come play-offs. Joseph Yeo, Rey Guevarra and Noy Baclao must step up every game.

If the team will engage in some trades with other team, they must do it now. Jay Washington might return in the second conference while Hontiveros might be back in the third conference, or worst, next season.

Their next game is on Saturday against Alaska Aces. They need to end their three game slump.

God bless Petron!

The PBA Monthly Report (Winners and Losers)

It’s been one month after the season-opening of the first “pay for play” basketball league in Asia, the PBA. The ten teams already played a maximum of 5 games in the entire month and gave us shocking result in which we didn’t expected to happen. So let’s have a trip down the memory lane and decide which team performed well in this conference.

WINNERS

Barako Bull – Surprisingly, they are on the top of the standings (tied with Rain or Shine and Talk n Text with 4-1 win-loss card). Willie Miller came out strong for his team by averaging 13 points per game. The team is already known as “The Giant Killer” for beating powerhouse teams like Barangay Ginebra, Talk N Text and their latest victim, the BMEG Llamados. I admire Coach Junel Baculi because of his excellent player rotation and for injecting composure on this team. Not to mention their super rookies, Dylan Ababbou and Allein Maliksi, both late picks in the first round, averaging double figures for the team. This team believed that “age is only a
number”.

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters – The wonders of Yeng Guiao is properly working. From being a cellar-dweller team upon entering the PBA, they are now one of the deadliest team in the league. With a 4-1 record, opposing teams now is trying to figure out on how to defeat this young team composed of defense specialist Gabe Norwood, sweet-shooting Jeff Chan and the lethal Paul Lee. This trio helped the team to accomplish such feat in the early part of this conference.

Talk N Text Tropang Texters – despite playing with a depleted line up in the start of the conference (Gilas member Jimmy Alapag, Ranidel de Ocampo and Kelly Williams is out for a vacation), this team proved that they are the defending champs. With the addition of Japeth Aguilar, this team is now complete in every position. Harvey Carey and Jason Castro are playing a hell of a ball game. Chot Reyes is very serious to try another run for the grand slam this season. And once the team is complete and healthy comes play-offs, opposing teams must start thinking a way to prevent a back to back championship from happening.

Meralco Bolts – what will happen if the main core of the team is beleaguered by injuries? From the start of the conference, the Bolts are playing without their two main scorers, Sol Mercado and Mac Cardona, while Asi Taulava is tired because of the Wuhan FIBA Championship. Chico Lanete, Gabby Espinas and Mark Macapagal, shouldered the needed offense and defense for the team and that’s why they are on the second spot in the standings. With Sol Mercado back on the team and Gabby Espinas is playing an excellent game with a double-double average, this team is on a mission: to enter the play-offs.

LOSERS

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings – coming from a two game winning streak, but those win was decided in a matter of seconds only. Against Powerade, Mark Caguioa’s shot gave their second win (73 - 72), thanks for the poor free throw shooting of the Tigers. For Shopinas.com, the team got carried away and celebrated too early, thanks to JayJay Helterbrand for the win.
Despite of their winning streak, I placed them in the losers’ column because this team needs an upgrade on their front line. This team must not rely on “miracles” or “bad game of the opposing teams” just like what happened to Powerade and Shopinas.

Petron Blaze Boosters – after a 3-0 start, here comes 0-2, two losses with a 10 point margin against Talk N Text and Meralco, both from MVP teams. We thought that this team is invincible in terms of talent and defense, but their main weakness after their last two games is the manpower. Last Friday, we’ve seen Chris Lutz and Alex Cabagnot played the entire game without rest. The team already signed their 3rd PG, Axel Doruelo, but he won’t play against Powerade because he must wait for the “go” signal from the Commissioner’s Office.

Powerade Tigers – same with Petron, from 2-0 start, they dropped their last three games. Marcio Lassiter is playing a good game in his rookie season, averaging 14.20 points per game. Gary David is still their number one option for scoring but the team needs another scorer to complement with David because Lassiter, Anthony and Kramer is focusing more on defense. JV Casio, playing with limited minutes coming from an injury, is slowly getting his game to harmonize with the team.

BMEG Llamados – After six games this conference, they found themselves at the bottom of the standings. Despite of having a great coach in the person of Tim Cone and talented composition of roster, the main problem of the team is how to absorb the triangle system. If you will able to watch their previous game, they started their game with the triangle and ends up with isolation/one-on-one game (the Ryan Gregorio system). They need to master their system or else we will see Wilfred Uytengsu with a great smile on his face.

Alaska Aces – I think this is the first time in this franchise to start a conference with a 0-5 record. They were abandoned by Tim Cone before the start of the season, and replaced by Joel Banal as head coach of the team. Jay R Reyes and Sonny Thoss are playing their best game this season (especially Jay R Reyes), but LA Tenorio and Cyrus Baguio is still “missing in action”. Why does Banal giving Brandon Cablay too much playing time when you have Eric Salamat, Julius Pasculado and Ariel Mepana on the bench? Sam Eman is a freaking bust!

Shopinas.com Clickers – this team is very promising, despite of being the new kid on the block in this league. I hope that if ever they will be eliminated early this conference, they will be able to find a very good import to reinforce them in the Commissioner’s Cup. One thing, I hope Ms. Sheila Lina will watch their game always. It is quite inspiring for the team to see her watching the team.

The Dilemma of Petron Blaze Boosters

After sweeping the first three games of Petron Blaze Boosters, they found themselves at the top of the standings together with their arch rival, Talk N Text Tropang Texters.

Of course, behind the success of the team are the players who fought hard in order to finish their first three assignments in this conference. Leading the team per scoring average is the rookie Chris Lutz, averaging 17 points, Alex Cabagnot with 16 points and Arwind Santos with 15 points and 18 rebounds, including the monstrous 21 rebounds against Shopinas. To round it up, Denok Miranda averaging 9 points per game, Danny Ildefonso and Carlos Sharma with 7 points apiece.

If you will observe the team roster, it is very balance from SF to C position, except in the SG and PG position where Denok Miranda and Alex Cabagnot alternating the said positions.
Dondon Hontiveros, the team’s main SG, is sidelined with ACL tear (I don’t know the correct term) and might be out for 6 months, together with Jay Washington and Rabeh Al-Husseini. To fill the void left by Hontiveros is the “Ninja” Joseph Yeo, but most of the time Denok Miranda took over his place. Because of that, Alex Cabagnot is now the lone point guard of the team, whenever Miranda is playing the SG spot.

According to some sources, because of the time frame where Hontiveros won’t play this conference, the plan of Petron seems to change; they are now in search of a shooting guard right now.

The name of Jimbo Aquino, a sophomore from Barangay Ginebra, is floating around the camp since he is the “apple of the eye” of his former coach Ato Agustin. The former NCAA Finals MVP is still looking for his playing time in his current team which is heavily armed with guards and has to play his first game in this conference.

If ever Petron will get the services of Jimbo Aquino (with conduit, Hello Barako Bull), it might solve the problem of Petron in the PG position because Miranda will be playing as back up PG for Cabagnot.

Another dilemma which Petron facing is when the time Jay Washington and Rabeh Al-Husseini return from injury. How will Ato maximize his players in terms of playing minutes when his former starters will be inserted in the lineup? Will Arwind Santos and Jay Washington be able to co-exist with each other and win the most coveted title in the league today?

Game Face

I think Jimbo Aquino will fit in the system of Petron, since his former coach knows how to handle him to be effective within the system. But who will be traded? Joseph Yeo? Or the worst is Noy Baclao?

Petron team is NOW a very good team without Jay Washington. I think it’s time for him to let go (to another SMC team, Hello Ginebra). We must admit that he and Santos will never co-exist with each other, and it might affect the development of Chris Lutz, as he will battle for playing minutes with Jwash . Arwind Santos is playing his MVP form this conference and Lutz is having an excellent game in his rookie season.

And with the team having two (2) first round picks this 2012 PBA Draft, the best solution for Jwash is to play for another SMC team and be their new leader.

The Art of Giving: The tale of the sisters (Petron, Ginebra and BMEG)

The battle cry of BGK fans: “TO SMC: Please improve our line-up!”

Of all the three sisters, only BGK is left without improvement in the last off-season. With a lone first round pick in the recent draft (Reil Cervantes) and dropping James Martinez to Powerade Tigers’ D-League Team, there are no significant changes in their roster despite of the departure of their resident “do-it-all” forward Rudy Hatfield, the retirement of their court-general JayJay Helterbrand after the Philippine Cup and the endless injuries of Major Pain Eric Menk.

On the other hand, Petron Blaze Boosters, after winning the Governor’s Cup last season and slamming the grand slam run of the Talk N Text with their “fashionista” and “tele-serye wanna-be” coach Chot Reyes and the cry baby Jason “We lost against Petron because I’m injured” Castro, is handed with a third-overall pick from the 2011 PBA Draft in the person of Chris Lutz, and embraced the return of the “Cebuano Hotshot” Dondon Hontiveros alongside with Carlos Sharma.

On the BMEG camp, with majority of their players is nursing with injuries during the last season, here comes to the rescue: Joe Devance, the scoring leader of Alaska Aces, who requested to be traded to another team, in exchange of KG Canaleta and Jondan Salvador in a 3 team trade with the ever helpful Air21. Their major acquisition in the off-season, aside from getting the Smart Gilas guard Mac Barroca in the recent draft, they acquired the services of another Alaska Aces, Coach Tim Cone.

On Ginebra side, aside from picking Cervantes in the draft, they lost Johnny Abarrientos to BMEG in exchange of Art dela Cruz as one of their assistant coaches, Jong Uichico and Siot Tancquincen will handle the team this season as co-head coaches. Aside from that very minor changes compared to their sister teams; Robert Non is still idle with the status of the team regarding the team’s roster.

BGK’s line up, aside from being surrounded by guards, is a team that is aging. Only sophomores John Wilson and Jimbo Aquino are in their late 20’s. Their resident center, Eric Menk, is battling an injury that keeps on haunting him. Yancy de Ocampo, a 6’ 9” player who is a liable inside the paint and loves to take outside shots, Billy Mamaril, with his 6’6” frame is not given quality minutes by their coaches and Enrico Villanueva is still recuperating from his injury and he is the shadow of himself during his Red Bull days.

The only fighting player who can give muscle inside the paint is Willy Wilson. He is very undersized compared with Sonny Thoss, Asi Taulava, Noy Baclao, Japeth Aguilar and others. But still, he can’t do it all alone. The team needs a Center right now.

Game Face

In order to help their sister, Petron may give up Noy Baclao. Why Baclao? Noy Baclao’s minutes diminished from time to time and he is still lost in the system of Ato Agustin. While Carlos Sharma is enjoying his playing time in Petron, Baclao is relegated from the bench most of the time. If Rabeh and JWash will return, expect Baclao’s minutes to hit an all time low in Petron, especially in the Commissioner’s Cup where every team can select an import with no height requirement.

Aside from that, Petron holds two first rounder in the coming 2012 PBA Draft from Shopinas and Barako Bull, and with the entry of Junmar Fajardo, Aldrech Ramos and maybe Greg Slaughter, Baclao needs to find a new home and that is Ginebra.

On BMEG side, their “Sampayan Brigade” is very useful against the Blaze Boosters last week. With the likes of Rafi Reavis, Marc Pingris, Kerby Raymundo, Joe Devance, John Ferriols, the ceiling of BMEG is unstoppable. So maybe Rico Maierhofer can give Ginebra an added ceiling to their weak front line.

I hope this will solve the problem of Ginebra in terms of a legitimate Center.

The concept of "bigayan" is a good trait among Filipinos.

The Possibility of “Blaze Boosters – Tropang Texters III”

Hold it PBA fans, I know it’s very too early to tell whether this trilogy will happen or not, but I’m pretty sure (not to offend the other teams) that this trilogy must end now, not in the Commissioner’s Cup or even in the Governor’s Cup.

The idea of this trilogy came up when Talk N Text star, Jason Castro, said on his interview that Petron managed to slam the grand slam run of his team its because they (Castro, Alapag and Carey) is injured.

Whoa! Is that so? How about Jay Washington? Lordy Tugade? Joseph Yeo? and Rabeh Al-Husseini? Or even Danny Ildefonso? All of them, except Ildefonso, did not play in the Finals because of injuries.

Because of his statement, maybe accidentally or intentionally, ignited the fuel of Petron fans all over the basketball community and can’t wait for another showdown in the Finals to end this endless debate about who’s who in terms of basketball supremacy.

Let us enumerate the possible reasons why this match up becomes a reality for this conference.

Roster Comparison

Of all the ten teams in the PBA, the Boosters and the Texters has all the tools to become a certified champion in terms of roster. From Center up to the Point Guard position all the way to their bench and even their coaching staff, both teams are very competitive.

Boasting for the Texters are 2011 PBA MVP Jimmy Alapag, 2011 Most Improved Player Jason Castro, former PBA Rookies of the Year Ryan Reyes, Larry Fonacier and Rich Alvarez, former PBA MVP Kelly Williams, Ranidel de Ocampo, Ali Peek and Gilas Center Japeth Aguilar.

For the Boosters, they have PBA 2011 Finals MVP Arwind Santos, 2 time MVP Danny Ildefonso, Alex Cabagnot, Cebuano Hotshot Dondon Hontiveros, 2011 PBA Draft 1st pick Noy Baclao, Denok Miranda, Carlos Sharma, Rey Guevarra, Joseph Yeo and top rookie Chris Lutz.

Based on their line ups, it’s all about offense versus defense. TNT is one of the great offensive teams in the PBA averaging more than 100 points per game, on the other hand, PBB is known for their choking defense, allowing their opponents to score 70 points or less per game.

Coaching Philosophy

Coach Chot Reyes, aside from his fashionable get ups during games and his “teleserye” scripts whenever the team loses, is one of the great X’s and O’s in terms of coaching strategy. He firmly believes that once a system is installed within the team and familiarized it, no one can ruin it except for the players itself. We enjoyed his reactions about how their import sucked during the finals and replaced by their original import, how Ali Peek and Kelly Williams “disappeared” in the game, and his press conference that Jason Castro will be out for the series because of injury and yet he appeared in the next game and whooped the Boosters in one game in that series.

Ato Agustin is somehow the opposite of Chot Reyes. His system is patterned on how the players’ rhythm and composure. His signature statement “Go Hard lang Kami”, is very evident especially in the Governor’s Cup. Agustin is also a type of the coach that pays a lot of attention in installing defense to his team.

Great offense versus tight defense, a must see in this trilogy.

Bragging Rights

We all know that in PBA, it’s all about SMC vs. MVP, Ramon S. Ang vs. Manny V. Pangilinan. This trilogy will make a statement about who’s the best in the league, which dynasty will prevail this time.

The bad blood still exists for both teams. Remember the “word war” between Agustin and Reyes, which the former wanted to end the series with a fist fight and calling the latter as one of the “bekimons” in the league because of his fashion statement and not accepting Agustin’s offer?

How about the statement given by “The Blur” Jason Castro that Petron won the Governor’s Cup because of the injuries suffered by the team? To think that Petron’s key players like Husseini, Washington, Yeo and Tugade are also injured.

So this is it! This trilogy must end this Philippine Cup.

The high octane efficiency of Petron Blaze Boosters

Despite of all the issues regarding oil price hike, oil deregulation law, E-VAT on oil, Petron Blaze Boosters’ fans will separate this for the sake of basketball because there’s a reason to celebrate.

Why? Because, the Governor’s Cup Champions last season is scorching hot this 37th season of the PBA Philippine Cup. They are on the top of the standings with a commanding 2-0 won-loss card.
We all know it’s too early to celebrate because the PBA had just opened the season less than one week last October 2 only.

Coach Ato Agustin did a wonderful job last off-season by providing the “missing pieces” in the team with the likes of Chris Lutz, Dondon Hontiveros and Carlos Sharma.

Arwind Santos, when he is activated to “beast mode”, no one can stop him from delivering. In 2 games, he averaged 15 points and 16.5 rebounds per game. Alex Cabagnot, Petron’s court general, is averaging 19 points and 3.5 assists per game. Danny Ildefonso, who went double-double last game against Barako Bull, might be drinking from the “fountain of youth” and showing no signs of aging. The rookie sensation Chris Lutz, averaged 18 points in two games, with 6 steals against the Barako Bull.

Denok Miranda is also showing his FEU form this conference, playing with Cabagnot, they formed a deadly back-court tandem which dictates the fluidity of their offense as well as in their defense. Agustin discovered the duo of Cabagnot-Miranda during the Petron-Talk N Text showdown last season, and it is working well in the team’s system. Carlos Sharma is another revelation in this conference which is now armed with soft touch from the midrange.

Sophomores Noy Baclao and Rey Guevarra, with less playing minutes, always deliver whenever they are in the court. I hope that Agustin will give them more playing time in order for them to build their self-confidence.

Game Face

With Dondon Hontiveros is out for 7 to 10 days because of his calf injury, Chris Lutz is enjoying more playing time (38 minutes in 2 games) in his absence. Also, Danny Ildefonso is averaging 33 minutes per game in 2 games. I hope Agustin give Lakay more minutes in the bench for him to fully recover his injury. He is needed more comes semis and Petron cannot afford to lose Lakay in that series, remember how he is valuable during the Governor’s Cup Championship when Jay Washington and Rabeh Al-Husseini is down with injuries.

Cabagnot’s maturity and decision-making seems to improve this conference. He is showing his play making skills during the game, taking shots at the right place at the right time and his composure in every opponent’s attempt to make a run and cut their lead.

Rob Reyes is set to play for the Boosters in their next game against Shopinas.Com Clickers, this will give the team additional muscle inside the paint. The 6’ 5” Reyes will give Lakay a breath of fresh air and to avoid injuries.

In their two games, we witnessed the chemistry and composure of Petron Blaze Boosters as well as the players’ motivation and hunger for championship. It’s too early to tell, but I can smell a “Talk N Text – Petron Blaze Booster III” this finals, and maybe this time, they will settle their unfinished business with an identical record of 1-1 for both teams.

POST GAME ASSESSMENT: Petron Blaze Boosters beat the BMEG Llamados: 73 – 69

It was a defensive battle between the two teams last night. Blocks here, steals there and tons of turnovers everywhere, but Petron managed to escape Tim Cone and the Llamados, 73 – 69, thanks to the late game heroics of Alex Cabagnot and rookie Chris Lutz.

Former Gilas Lutz, leads the Boosters with 19 points, 9 out of 9 from the charity stripe, 4 rebounds including the last offensive and a three point play in the dwindling minutes of the last quarter. Cabagnot shared 17 points including the last 4 free throw shots, and his game-changing three point shot with a minute left in the quarter. The silent performer Arwind Santos managed to score 11 points and a whooping 19 rebounds (6 from offensive end).

Super Sub PJ Simon leads the Llamados with 21 points and 6 rebounds. The other players who entered the double digit zone James Yap and Kerby Raymundo, with 10 points.

Observations:
- Chris Lutz played a monster game last night. He was in the court guarding Joe Devance, who managed to get 9 points only, and Rafi Reavis. He is now the “Marc Pingris” of the Boosters.

- The tandem of Dennis Miranda and Alex Cabagnot is worth watching for. Cabagnot on the offensive end while Miranda on the defensive side.

- The triangle system imposed by Coach Tim Cone on BMEG is still far from his Alaska Aces. We understand that the system cannot be applied fully in one game only.

- The “Sampayan Brigade” of BMEG worked a lot. The team collected 7 blocks compared to 6 for Petron.

- Rookie Marc Barocca seemed to be lost in BMEG system. Tim Cone used him for 13 minutes only. I hope next game he will be utilized more by Cone.

- I hope Coach Ato Agustin will use Rey Guevarra more often.

- Joseph Yeo is still lost in space in the Boosters’ rotation

Impressive game for both teams. I can see that Llamados, few more games, will be a very deadly team comes to semis. Petron Blaze Boosters displayed a lot of composure especially in the end game, which is considered as a great improvement compared to last AFC campaign.

The Mark Borboran Case

This week, we witnessed the opening of the 37th season of the PBA, as well as the performance of Rain or Shine’s second over-all pick, Paul “Leethal Weapon Lee”, exploding for 21 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists and giving the team’s first win.

Now the latest news circulating in Twitter and some PBA forums is the Mark Borboran case. This former Alaska Ace didn’t made up to the Aces’ 16 man line up which the team submitted to the Office of the Commissioner days before the season opening, making him as a Free Agent.

Now, Petron Blaze Booster gave Mark Borboran a “Token Offer Sheet” to play for them this conference. But the Aces are not willing to give away Borboran to Petron, claiming that they still have the rights because he is still a Restricted Free Agent. And because of that, they are willing to trade him to Meralco for a second-rounder.

The Commissioner asked for a revision about the Alaska-Meralco trade involving Borboran. If this trade will push through, the Meralco must match the offer of Petron to Borboran, and if it doen’t push through, Alaska must match the offer of Petron and decide whether they will put him on the 16 man roster of the Aces.

Game Face

This will be the second time that Petron (formerly SMB) and Alaska got into the same scenario, when SMB’s Sam Eman was put on the reserved list (with a live contract with the team and automatically be an unrestricted free agent), accepted the offer of the Aces to play for them. Eman quickly accepted the offer, leaving his team disappointed with his actions.

This also happened to Ginebra’s Homer Se and SMB’s Dorian Pena. When they put on a reserved list, some teams offered them to play for the team, but because of “delicadeza”, they turned down the offer.

The important thing to solve this case is for the Commissioner to consider the following actions: Which of the two submitted first, the Petron’s offer to Borboran or the 16 man line up of Alaska? I think this will solve the case and for the Commissioner to decide which is which.

SISTER ACT: Petron Blaze Boosters will face Tim Cone’s Triangle Offense and BMEG Llamados.

This will be the first sister act this season. Petron Blaze Boosters will face BMEG Llamados this Wednesday as the main event of the night.

Both bolster their lineups and even their coaching staffs, expect a helluva fight between the two teams who is seeking to return to the “promise land” and reclaim the All Filipino Cup Championship.

Coach Ato Agustin will go head to head with Coach Tim Cone first time this season. This is a battle between the Triangle System versus “Go Hard” system.

Petron will be bannered by the Governor’s Cup Finals MVP Arwind Santos, 2-time PBA MVP Danny Ildefonso, Alex Cabagnot, rookie Chris Lutz, sophomores Noy Baclao and Rey Guevarra, and Dondon Hontiveros.

2-time PBA MVP James Yap will lead the BMEG alongside with Joe Devance, Marc Pingris, Gilas member and rookie point guard Marc Barocca, returnee Kerby Raymundo and Raffy Reavis.

Game Face

This will be a very tight game onto the dying seconds of the game. If the Llamados will execute their system smoothly despite of the time constraints in implementing it to the team, they can beat the Boosters.

On the other hand, Petron is a better team today compared to the team that won the Governor’s Cup Championship last season. Their bench is very deep and players now can play defense. The return of Hontiveros to the team will be the barometer of their game and Chris Lutz maybe defending JDV all through the night.

Based on their performance of their pre-season games, Boosters came out strong by pulling games winning by a large margin while the Llamados mostly won games in a close fight.

With a strong chemistry, defensive mind set, and familiarity of the system, Petron Blaze Booster will notch their first win this season.

PBA 37th Season: POWER RANKINGS

This is it! The long wait is over! This is war!

Today will be the opening tip-off of the 37th season of the first “pay-for-play” basketball league in Asia, the PBA.

With their tagline: “Kampihan Na!”, the fans will surely bet on their favorite teams in their quest for All Filipino Championship. (I don’t think the tagline is related to the banner in the PBA website, where 4 SMC teams and 1 MVP team is featured, or maybe PBA is telling that the both SMC and MVP camp will unite for their quest in the 2014 Olympics)

THE KING

The reigning AFC Champions, Talk N Text Tropang Texters, will try to reclaim their title and aim for another grand slam run this season.

With Jimmy Alapag, Ranidel de Ocampo, and Kelly Williams returning to their line up after their stint in Wuhan, their championship core is still intact. With the latest addition of Japeth Aguilar and the rookie sucker puncher (coined by Yeng Guiao) Pamboy Raymundo, they will add youth, speed and talent to the team.

Who to watch out: Chot Reyes’ drama acts and telenovela dialogues.

THE CHALLENGERS

Petron Blaze Boosters – one of the main reason why TNT didn’t experienced how sweet to win a rare grand slam. Coach Ato Agustin and his seven disciples (most in the league) will again try to sneak in the Finals and reclaim the All Filipino Championship. With Jay Washington and Rabeh Al-Husseini still in the sideline, Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot and Danny Ildefonso, will banner the team this season. Re-acquired during the draft, Dondon Hontiveros might be the last missing piece in the PBB line-up after Duncil and Hubalde return to their mother team. With new recruits, defensive stalwarts Chris Lutz and Carlos Sharma, Petron is a more complete team compared last season.

Who to watch out: Rey Guevarra’s explosiveness and Chris Lutz’ tight defense

Alaska Aces – although they are abandoned by Tim Cone for another team, expect them to prove themselves this season. Armed with four rookies, Mac Baracael, Eric Salamat, Julius Pasculado and Ariel Mepana alongside with their old reliables LA Tenorio, Cyrus Baguio, Sonny Thoss and Jay R Reyes, they are still a championship caliber team. They are no push over this season. Joel Banal, their new head coach, will lead the team and promised to bring back the championship glory in the Aces Camp.

Who to watch out: Julius Pasculado and Ariel Mepana
BMEG Llamados – adopting the triangle system which popularized by Tim Cone in the Alaska’s camp for over 22 years, this might be the year of the Llamados. With a new head coach, Tim Cone and new assistants Johnny Abarrientos and Jeffrey Cariaso, BMEG is on a new mission. James Yap will be the cornerstone of their offense with the help of the returning Kerby Raymundo, Marc Pingris, Joe Devance and the rookie guard Marc Barocca.

Who to watch out: James Yap and Kerby Raymundo

Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings – even though Rudy Hatfield left the team (again and again), Jayjay Helterbrand contemplating on retirement, Eric Menk’s injury (as always), and NO PLAYER MOVEMENT/S MADE BY THE SMC COMPARED TO PETRON AND BMEG, no need to worry ka-baranggays because BGK is still capable of whooping some a** every season they played here in the PBA.

With the lone addition of Riel Cervantes in their lineup, Mark Caguioa will still lead the team to the promise land. The never say die attitude of this team is very intact and cannot be questioned by others.

Who to watch out: Mark Caguioa’s MVP performance

THE GATE CRASHERS

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters – last season, ROS proved that they are not the league’s whipping boys. They can win games; they can be also threat to the other teams. With the tandem of Gabe Norwood and rookie sensation Paul Lee, expect something different this season. That difference will make every opponent of ROS in deep trouble. And when you see the game face of Yeng Guiao, you are also in deep trouble, dib a Coach Chot?

Who to watch out: Paul Lee and Yeng Guiao (expect fines)

Powerade Tigers – they are the last season’s big time losers, but no longer now. JV Casio and Marcio Lassiter will prove that this is their time. With a lot of improvement in their rosters by acquiring Doug Kramer, Rommel Adducul, Alex Crisano and Josh Vandalingham and holdovers Gary David and Sean Anthony, they might burst the bubble of the opposing teams. They might say “Goodbye Eliminations, Hello Quarters”.

Who to watch out: JV Casio and Alex Crisano’s court antics.

Meralco Bolts – their line up improved a lot with the addition of Jason Ballesteros, Gilbert Bulawan, Mark Macapagal and Chito Lanete. With Sol Mercado, Mark Cardona and Asi Taulava leading the team, they have a lot of reasons to enter the quarters every conference this season.

Who to watch out: Jason Ballesteros

Barako Bulls –Veterans Willie Miller, Danny Seigle, Don Allado, Dorian Pena, Paul Artadi and Wynne Arboleda must drink from the “fountain of youth” in order to give the first championship of this team (formerly Air 21). Always selected as victim by the SMC and MVP group in terms of hoarding their talents, I hope this season, Allein Maliksi and Dylan Ababou won’t be traded at all. They will serve as the future of the team as their veteran teammates guide them in every game. Nothing to ask for, but they might pull a surprise this conference.

Who to watch out: Willie Miller – Danny Seigle tandem

WHIPPING BOYS

Shopinas.com Clickers – aside from Franz Pumaren’s moustache, I don’t see this team will enter the quarters this season. Whoever owns the Shopinas first round pick next year will be happy.

PBA Teams: A Second Look

ALASKA ACES

• Intact roster – no player movements in the Alaska Camp except for drafting significant players in the PBA Draft: Mac Baracael, Julius Pasculado and Eric Salamat.
• New coach, old system – with the departure of Tim Cone, the Aces elevate Joel Banal as their new head coach. Banal said that he will still use the triangle system but he will install new plays for the team.
• Projected First Five: C – Sonny Thoss, PF – Tony dela Cruz, SF – Mac Baracael, SG – Cyrus Baguio, PG – LA Tenorio.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Julius Pasculado

BMEG LLAMADOS

• New Coach, New System – with Tim Cone at the helm, expect that the Llamados will execute the famous triangle system.
• New Players: Marc Barocca, John Ferriols
• Projected First Five: C – Rafi Reavis, PF – Kerby Raymundo, SF – Joe Devance, SG – James Yap, PG – Mac Barocca.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Mac Barocca

BARAKO BULL

• New Coach, Old Players (age factor) – Junel Baculi will handle the team and the team is composed of 90% veterans.
• New Players: Willie Miller, Don Allado, Allein Maliksi, Dylan Ababou, Sunday Salvacion
• Projected First Five: C – Dorian Pena, PF – Don Allado, SF – Danny Seigle, SG – Willie Miller, PG – Wynne Arboleda.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Dylan Ababou

BARANGAY GINEBRA

• New Coaches, Old and Small Players (age /height factor) – Siot and Jong will handle the team. Again, the team is composed of guards and guards.
• New Players: Riel Cervantes, Art dela Cruz (returning asst. coach)
• Projected First Five: C – Eric Menk, PF – Willy Wilson, SF – Ronald Tubid, SG – Mark Caguioa, PG – Jayjay Helterbrand.
• Dark Horse of the Team: John Wilson and Jimbo Aquino

MERALCO BOLTS

• No major player movements except for having four “MARK” in the team – Isip, Cardona, Yee and Macapagal.
• New Players: Mark Macapagal, Mark Yee, Bryan Faundo
• Projected First Five: C – Asi Taulava, PF – Reynel Hugnatan, SF – Nelbert Omolon, SG – Mark Cardona, PG – Sol Mercado.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Mark Macapagal

PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS

• No major player movements
• New Players: Dondon Hontiveros, Carlos Sharma, Chris Lutz
• Projected First Five: C – Noy Baclao, PF – Arwind Santos, SF – Chris Lutz, SG – Dondon Hontiveros, PG – Alex Cabagnot.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Chris Lutz (Defensive Player of the Year)

POWERADE TIGERS

• New Players, Same Coach (sigh)
• New Players: Doug Kramer, Josh Vandalingham, JV Casio, Marcio Lassiter, Rommel Adducul, Alex Crisano, Kenneth Duremdes (please, you are not Michael Jordan)
• Projected First Five: C – Alex Crisano, PF – Doug Kramer, SF – Marcio Lassiter, SG – Gary David, PG – JV Casio.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Marcio Lassiter

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO PAINTERS

• Same old but effective lineup!
• New Players: Paul Lee, JR Quinahan,
• Projected First Five: C – Beau Belga, PF – Larry Rodriguez, SF – Gabe Norwood, SG – Ronjay Buenafe, PG – Paul Lee.
• Dark Horse of the Team: Paul Lee (PBA ROY)

SHOPINAS CLICKERS

• New Coach, New Players, New Team, Awful Name.
• New Players: Renren Ritualo, RJ Jazul, Elmer Espiritu, Paolo Hubalde
• Projected First Five: I have no idea!
• Dark Horse of the Team: Franz Pumaren’s bigote (moustache)

TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS

• Intact Roster
• New Players: Japeth Aguilar
• Projected First Five: C – Japeth Aguilar, PF – Harvey Carey, SF – Kelly Williams, SG – Jared Dillinger, PG – Jimmy Alapag
• Dark Horse of the Team: Jason Castro (PBA MVP)

Best and Worst Team Decisions in PBA History

Here are the lists of some worst decisions ever made by some PBA Teams in NO particular order.

1. ALASKA ACES

BEST:

Acquiring talents through trades (Lastimosa – Cabahug, Cariaso – Solomon, Devance-Mercado, etc.)

Following the salary cap in a very efficient manner.

Signing of Tim Cone in 1989.

Lending the Big Three for the National Team, inspite of eyeing a second grandslam in 1998.

WORST:

Trading Kenneth Duremdes to Sta. Lucia for Brandon Cablay

Trading Johnny Abarrientos and Poch Juinio to Coca-Cola Tigers for Ali Peek and Jon Ordonio

Letting go of Tim Cone (although Tim asked for his release but I know that there’s something else in between)


2. BARAKO BULL (formerly Air21)

BEST:

Drafting the best talents in every PBA draft (I might also include this to the worst decision)

Introducing Shawn Daniels in the PBA (one of the best import played here in the league)

WORST:

Drafting the best talents in every PBA draft and trading it after for some bags of peanuts.

Considered as the farm team of SMC and MVP teams
3. BARANGAY GINEBRA GIN KINGS

BEST:

Drafting Mark Caguioa in the 2001 PBA Draft and signing the free-agent Jayjay Helterbrand.

Acquiring Rudy Hatfield, Billy Mamaril and Rafi Reavis from Coca-Cola

Signing the free agent then, Bal David, in 1996.

WORST:

Forming a line-up of “security guards”.

Letting Rudy Hatfield to come and go for the team (whenever he likes to play ball)

Allan Caidic as coach (which lead to Sonny Jaworski leaving the team in 1998)

Drafting EJ Feihl, even Duremdes and Cariaso is still available in the 1995 PBA Draft.

Their famous “walk-out” versus Shell in 1990.

4. BMEG Llamados

BEST:

Of course, signing Tim Cone as coach.

Elevating Jojo Lastimosa, Alvin Patrimonio, Jerry Codinera and other players to form the Purefoods team in 1988.

Hiring Baby Dalupan (the winningest coach in the PBA) as their coach.

Matching the offer of Pepsi Mega in 1991 on Alvin Patrimonio for 25 million 5-year contract.

Drafting James Yap in 2005 PBA Draft.

WORST:

Trading Marc Pingris to San Miguel in 2008 for Enrico Villanueva.

Trading Jerry Codinera to Mobiline in 1999 for Andy Seigle.

Hiring the “Fil-Sham” Al Segova.

5. MERALCO BOLTS

BEST:

Buying the Sta. Lucia franchise

Acquiring talents like Asi Taulava, Marc Cardona and Sol Mercado.

WORST:

Offering a one conference contract to Marlou Aquino.

Using the name “Meralco” even the charges in our electricity is very high.

6. PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS

BEST:

Signing Danny Seigle as “direct-hire” in 1999.

Signing the free agent, Olsen Racela, in 1997.

Drafting Danny Ildefonso during the 1998 PBA Draft.

WORST:

Trading LA Tenorio and Larry Fonacier to Alaska in exchange of Mike Cortez and Ken Bono.

Acquiring talents in Air 21 (or should I say “hoarding”)

Draft boo-boos by Jong Uichico during his stint with the team.

Drafting Sam Eman, when Ryan Reyes is still available.

Trading Seigle, Pena, Hontiveros and Artadi to Air 21

Using the name “Petron” even there’s always an oil price hike (and to stop Phoenix from entering the league).

7. POWERADE TIGERS

BEST:

Drafting JV Casio and Marcio Lassiter in the 2011 PBA Draft.

Acquiring Gary David from Air21 for Alex Cabagnot.

Acquiring Doug Kramer and Josh Vandalingham from Rain or Shine.

WORST:

Not replacing their coach Bo Perasol.

Acquiring old players through trade.

Letting Kenneth Duremdes play again this season.

8. RAIN ELASTO PAINTERS

BEST:

Drafting Paul Lee in the 2011 PBA Draft.

Drafting Gabe Norwood in the 2008 PBA Draft.

Signing Yeng Guiao as head coach.

WORST:

I can’t remember any…

9. TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS

BEST:

Signing Asi Taulava as “direct-hire” in 1999.

Good draft choices like Jimmy Alapag (2003), Harvey Carey (2003), Jason Castro (2008)

Lending players for the national team.

WORST:

Trading Asi Taulava (thanks to Derek Pumaren)
“Choosing” Petron Blaze Boosters to end their “grand slam” bid.

Allowing Jason Castro to play even he is injured.

And allowing Chot Reyes to “air” his drama about his team.