Can't take the Heat!

Sorry, Detroit fans, the Heat will win the Eastern Conference Finals.

No, I’m not talking crap but with a 3-to-1 deficit, it would be entirely difficult for the motor town boys to upend the scorching Heatians.

It’s no-brainer actually.

With Dwyane Wade shooting 70% from the field, waaay above Abdul-Jabbar of 74 (66.3% vs. the Bulls) and Shaquille O’neal of 98 (63.0% vs. the Sonics) and with Shaq back in his healthy-dominating self, the Heat we’ll be locking up one seat in the world championship.

It’s revenge, baby!

And you’ve got to love the White Hot Heat campaign for it.

Figuratively, it’s making the Heatians hot making it appear that their 2005 defeat courtesy of the Pistons a major fluke.

But so much for D-Wade and Shaq’s magnificent performances, the Heat are playing great team ball. That’s something you’ve got to give to Riley. He created this team in the off-season despite having a lot of doubting Thomases. I mean, who would have thought that the King of Gab, the Boston choker and the messed up White Chocolate would blend together to form a great supporting cast? Not I. But certainly Pat did and that’s what makes him a great playoff coach.

And also, what sets him apart from Flip Saunders.

Well, maybe just for the time being now that his team is looking like a *dysfunctional outfit.

What Flip needs to do is to find away to fire up his wards and make them believe that he can take them to the next level. And he has to be honest in doing so. From now on, it’s only going to be the “truth” inside the locker room. And the truth says one thing: they’re not playing like the old dominant Pistons who topped the NBA in the regular season.

It aint over ‘till the fat lady sings.

But first things first, they need to stop the Flash and the Diesel. They can’t afford to give them great scoring nights more so, to rely on the law of averages in the hope that Wade and O’neal will miss their shots later on in the series. Simply put, they should start making them throw bricks instead of wishing that they missed.

Game 5 goes back to the state of Michigan.

Thus, Detroit fans need to pray the cool weather and the isolated rain showers cool off the Heat.

Or else, the season’s over for ‘em.


*Courtesy of Kobewankenobi

MY WEBSITE

Random thoughts...

PBA is drama!

Who says you can only get mushy, angry and amused just by watching Pinoy soap operas (insert Gulong ng Palad)? Since the inception of the PBA’s new slogan, “Laban kung laban” the league literally became an interesting source of melodramatic spectacle. But caveat, it’s not for the fainted heart! I mean, from Caguioa’s 80k fine, to Eugene Tejada’s freak accident, name it the PBA has it! Where else could the drama possible be?

OK, so I’m just exaggerating. (Later I shall write a drama skit for my parents.)

At least I have your attention now.

Moving along here's the deal: asked by many about my opinion regarding several PBA matters, but declined to make a major blow. Glad, I now have the time to fire back.

Quick, read on!

On Mark Caguioa’s 80K fine…

The money is way too petty compared to the amount of joy he could’ve given the people of Misamis Oriental had he appeared in the All-Star festivities. But what bothers me to no end was when he said in an interview that, “ayokong makipag-plastikan.” (I don’t want to be hypocrite.) What did he mean by that? Did it find it a bitter pill to swallow to mingle with the fans and his co-players? Is he that arrogant now? I don’t know where could that idea come from. Kids, maybe.

And for that, here’s an additional 10 slaps for you, Mr. Spark.

On the mega-trade between among TNT-ALA-Air21

I had three feelings regarding this trade.

One, devastation. I instantly felt a chill knowing that TNT will have a strong, strong team with the recent inclusion of Don Allado and RenRen Ritualo. On paper, they’re invincible. And even if they fail to make headway this conference, I’m sure as hell they’ll dominate the league once they get the chemistry and balance they need.

Second, disgust. For the nth time, Air21 made another stupid move by shipping their franchise player. Was there money involved? We can only speculate. But one thing is for sure: the think tanks of Air21 may have been filled with too much jellyfish that’s why they keep on mismanaging the team. How could they possibly end up as champions when they keep on giving away players of Ritualo’s caliber? I so wish they’d prove us all wrong.

Third, relief. Tim Cone and the Aces have been very much loyal to the triangle. In the past, it has rewarded them with several championships. In this new generation however, it seems not to be working out fine. Now, with the inclusion of flamboyant Willie Miller and mobile big man John Ferriols, it seems the Aces would be running and gunning. I wonder what took them so long since they have the wares to do it much earlier? Ah, at least Timmy is learning to adjust and perhaps, to adapt… in the nick of time.

On Eugene Tejada’s freak accident

I honestly want to propose that it was just an accident that no one desired to happen but in the back of my mind, I really want to curse some people for making it that worse. But it’s not proper to dwell on the negative especially when you read everyday are news telling the whole nation that Gene was in high spirits and he freely accepted that what happened to him was indeed a freak accident. I realize we should go away with negative vibes that may in one way or another hamper his recovery.

But it’s not all just a painful sight. There are so many things to learn from it like giving a hand to those in need, like forgetting about personal reservation in times of human crisis, like the value of being alert. What happened to Eugene is both bitter and sweet. It allowed us to open our eyes to several possibilities that we never deemed possible until that moment. Let’s not waste the teaching fruit brought about by Eugene’s fate.

Ambulance please...

On Noli Eala’s verbal clashes with Beth Celis and Zaldy Perez

No matter how sloppy an article maybe, it is still unbecoming of a PBA Commissioner to flay a journalist be it a tabloid writer or a well-respected columnist from a popular broadsheet. Simply put, there’s no reason for Kume to be “palengkero.” Not if he knew from his heart of hearts that the article has no hint of truth in it.

Enough said!

MY WEBSITE

Giants vs Realtors: Keys to winning

PUREFOODS CHUNKEE GIANTS may have already secured themselves of an automatic semis berth but that doesn't mean battling against the Realtors will be like a walk in the park.

SLR, who have won against TNT last night, on the other side, might be in cloud nine. The fact that they fought minus Duremdes and their headcoach ejected, added to their morale going to Sunday's game. I'm sure they'll prepare well for the Giants whom they've never humbled in three games dating back to the Fiesta Cup.

But what are the keys in defeating SLR?

I have three.

Defense. In their first encounter, the Giants have allowed SLR to shoot 48.3% percent from the two-point field goal. It seems alot to get worried about considering that inclusive of this high percentage was Espino's 10-of-19 shooting from the field which produced 31 big points for the fellow. However, it all went to naught as the Realtors had a miserable 4-of-28 (14%) clip from beyond the arc! You don't win a basketball game by throwing alot of low percentage shots! This made the job alot easier for the Giants defensively. Their defense held up in the second quarter (where they only allowed 9 points), and from then on, the Realtors never recovered.

TO points. In that same game, SLR committed 18 turnovers and the Giants with 15. The numbers were decent for the entire ball game but what's more telling were the points scored in each error a team commits. This was another area in which PCG edged out SLR. The Giants scored 19 TO points as opposed to SLR's 11. That's already an 8 point difference that might've changed the complexion of the game in favor of PCG.

Sharp shooting. If ever Kerby Raymundo would sit out this Sunday, undoubtedly, it would be another task for the Giants to challenge SLR's frontline. Aquino and Espino are great defenders and it would be very difficult to penetrate the middle. The key to offset this huge frontline is of course constant movement, proper positioning and more importantly better shot selection. And when I said sharp, I meant sharp. In their first meeting, James Yap shot 4-of-9 from rainbow country and 10-of-12 from the field for a total of 34 points. This remarkable shooting has paralyzed the frontline defense of SLR particularly the zone and in turn enabled the Giants' bigmen (Limpot, Pingris & Raymundo) to score in double digits.

Interestingly, both teams are coming off huge wins against similar opponent and are admittedly inspired going to the ball game. PCG won against TNT in the absence of key players and Eugene Tejada. SLR won against the same team sans Al Chua. But which inspiration could work in favor of whom this time?

PCG defeated SLR 3 times this year, would the law of averages finally work against the Giants?

Your guess is as good as mine.

But considering how the Giants are playing as of late, add the fact that should they win this Sunday, they'll end up number 1, it seems to me that they have a bigger motivation and slight advantage.

But who's to know?

"I’m sorry, coach" - Eugene

THIS IS AN EXCERPT from the column of Quinito Henson in the Philippine Star dated May 16, 2006 referring to the injury of Eugene Tejada:

"It is indeed a very unfortunate incident," said Gregorio. "In times like that, winning or losing does not matter anymore. My primordial concern is the health of Eugene. I was touched when I approached him. He looked at me and said, while he was lying on the floor, ‘I’m sorry, coach." Great heart. I told him not to say sorry. I whispered to him, ‘stay strong and we love him." When he left the court, I huddled my players to say a prayer for Eugene. We kept on praying ‘til the end of the game."

In the game of basketball, if a player goes down hard on the floor, experienced an eventual mix of pain and numbness, the only thing you’ll hear is a cry of agony.

Right?

Yes, but not all the time. Sometimes there’s an unexpectedly more heart-wrenching cry:

“I am sorry, coach.”

I was wondering, what was there for Tejada to say sorry for? Was it because he failed to cash in on a putback that could’ve narrowed the Giants deficit? Was it because he didn’t follow Ryan Gregorio’s previous instruction?

I think not.

Tejada sought for forgiveness for having himself hurt. It was, perhaps, an apology for his over eagerness to play hard even though he wasn’t feeling really well while the game was lopsided, anyway.

What a guy. If that wasn’t a showcase of dedication, then I don’t know what is.

Tell you, in the NBA, when a team is being drubbed by a wide margin, some players would refuse to be fielded in for another second. It is some sort of an embarrassment. You could even ask Steve Francis about it. Mind you, they couldn’t care less about the fine for as long as they keep their egos intact.

But I have a different concept of embarrassment especially in the context of a basketball game.

What is embarrassing is the refusal of any player to give his all, sacrifice his body for every possession or to take the lead just when he is needed the most. But what’s more embarrassing is to see a guy who’s stronger than a water buffalo play ineffectual and unmindful of the upset fans so long as they get a fat paycheck at the end of the month.

What a waste.

Ah, at least Eugene has done something really good. He exemplified what a real “astig” player is: selfless, hardworking, gung-ho and dedicated.
This has now become a rarity.

Shame goes to those who lack the same character and love for the game. Come to think of it, they have more ugly tricks to be sorry for. Isn’t about time we hear them say:

“I’m sorry coach for coming late for practice.”
“I’m sorry coach for playing dirty and for hurting this guy.”
“I’m sorry coach for not obeying you.”
“I’m sorry coach for not doing my job.”

Perhaps, it is. But I doubt if they have the nerves to do so. Hmm… probably some other time.

Meanwhile, if you happen to talk to Eugene tell him he shouldn’t say sorry anymore. What we need to know is that he’ll be safe and okay. And by the time he's able to feel and walk again, we will be there to see him grab rebounds and shoot the ball again. He'll come back like nothing happened.

We will be there.


For your prayers and messages pls go here, TJHOTDOGS.COM

A bad fall undeserving for a good man

“Forget about the game. Forget about the semis berth. This guy’s livelihood is in jeopardy. Let’s pray for him.”

This was the message I got last night from a friend named Jojo Ponce in reaction to the accident suffered by Purefoods Chunkee Giants Fil-Am forward, Eugene Tejada in the game against Red Bull at the Yñares Gym in Antipolo last night, May 14, 2006.

Down by a wide margin at the 5:42 mark in the fourth quarter, Roger Yap drove to the basket for a lay-up when the ball hit under the rim. Hustling for the rebound, nearby Tejada jumped for the ball and fell on his buttocks. Mick Pennisi, who were also fighting for the rebound fell backward and over Tejada which caused the latter’s body to make a dangerous recoil. When the smoke cleared, Tejada was prostrated at the floor with his head above his right limb, which was then stretched upward. He was grimacing in pain saying, “I can’t feel! I can’t feel.”

Purefoods coaching staff, PBA physician and Red Bull doctors rushed to his aid and found him unable to feel any sensation from his hips down and his right hand was also numb. Considering the sensitivity of the situation, they’ve decided not to touch him as to prevent any more aggravation to the injury. He also busted his kisser, which have gone black and blue. He was down on the floor for almost 30 minutes

What happened the entire lull was an all-time touching scene.

Girlfriend Jenny Hernandez, who was watching the game, went down from the bleachers, wiped Eugene’s tears and assured him that everything’s going to be all right. Teammates Kerby Raymundo, James Yap, Rey Evangelista, Roger Yap, Paul Artadi and others gathered up around to keep him calm while Ryan Gregorio, Governor Rene Pardo and Team Manager Alvin Patrimonio intently watched and observed.

Meanwhile, Coach Yeng Guiao and the entire Red Bull bench was obviously as shocked and as somber as they offer a moment of silence for the beleaguered opponent. Yñares fans were also up on their feet eagerly waiting for further development.

Soon the paramedics came and took Tejada to the Makati Medical Center. Jenny and some members of Purefoods the medical staff accompanied him.

The Giants then huddled for a few minutes as the action resumed to offer a prayer for their friend and teammate. The game went on as the Giants succumbed to the Bulls via score 92-75.

Later in the evening, I received another text message. This one’s a forwarded message originally sent by Kuya Rey Evangelista. The text went: “CT Scan showed dislocated cervical vertebrae c-2-c-7. [We will] start medical management and cervical traction. MRI [is] to follow. FYI.”

Just what does it mean by dislocated cervical vertebrae? Not minute, really.

According to the website www.peacehealth.org, the vertebrae and spinal nerves are organized into segments. One of which is called the Cervical segment, which pertains to the neck area. It contains 7 cervical vertebrae (C1 through C7) and 8 cervical nerves (C1 through C8). Cervical injury usually causes loss of function in the chest, arms, and legs. This explains the numbness on Tejada legs and arms. Indeed, it is life threatening.

That night it made me wonder, how could something so bad happen to a good man?

Prior to the game last night, Tejada sat out on the Giants two assignments due to a sprained foot. He wasn’t a hundred percent. But Kerby went down so Coach Ryan had no choice but to field him in to help in the rebounding department. Despite his condition, Eugene showed his usual devil-may-care attitude and hustle. He wouldn’t have fallen as hard if he weren’t going ferociously for the ball. But we can’t blame him. That’s how he plays. That’s the kind of player, a man that he is. He surely deserves our adulation and praise but more than that, our prayers.

Yes, prayers.

But, what occurred in Yñares last night shall also serve as a reminder that accidents can happen to anyone, anytime especially in the world of sports that’s why athletes need to be extra careful and oftentimes, prayerful. On the part of the PBA, it showed their unity in times of adversity. But more than that, the incident reminded us of the things that should matter more: life, health, our love ones and friends.

That for sure is bigger than the outright semifinals ticket.

In parting, let’s pray for Eugene’s speedy recovery. Let’s hope that may his family have the strength to stand next to him all throughout these trying times.

You’ll be all right, Gene! We’re right behind you.


Prayer:

Lord heal him, we rebuke any paralization in his body. We ask for quick recovery in Jesus name, amen.

Please pass.

Sweet memories

Heyo! Musta? I have been trying my best to post everyday kaso minsan me writer's block ao. Anyway, thank you lang sa pag visit ng blog ko kahit hindi halata. Pasensiya rin sa iba kung medyo napupuno na ang email account ninyo ng mga notification letters ng blog ko. Kulit ba? Haha.

Anyway, naisip ko lang kagabi... dami ko pa lang mga kaibigan na hindi na nakikita. Kumusta naman kaya sila? Si Chris kaya musta? Dhey me balita ka ba run? Ngek, ikaw pang tinanong ano? Ikaw nga wala akong ideya kung nasaan. Paramdam ka naman1 mag-reunion kaya tayong lahat? Nah, wag muna...di pa ako mayaman!

Okay, so bottomline, miss ko na kayong lahat. I really hope you guys are having the time of your life. Life hasn't been the same seen we separated 8 years ago. You know there are times when I reminisce the older days right before I retire in bed. Natatawa ako, minsan naasar, minsan nato-touch. You know, the times we spent together are my treasure. It makes me feel young again. Well, not that I feel old ha? Kung iisipin natin parang kailan lang iyon eh.

Parang kailan lang...

Yung we went sa Philam Life Theatre to join a choir competition? Remember how we enjoyed singing My Heart Will Go On right after we finished brushing up on our piece? Bayan ko ba yun? Tell you a secret, sa theatre na yun, that's when I first saw a drinking fountain! Grabe, promding-promdi ang dating! Sobrang jologs natin nun kasi we rented, actually sina Ma'am Kit yung nag-rent ng sasakyan natin na baby bus, tapos opponents were brought there using their own cars or vans! And remember how shocked we were when we heard St. Scho girls screamed and shrieked on top of their lungs when they won the competition? Di ba parang nakakawala sa kural??? Oh, that was one of my favorite experiences in high school!

Eh, how about yung mga misadventures natin sa CAT?? Wow, I can't believe I permitted myself from waking up at 4am in the morning on a Saturday just to attend training! Sobrang nakakahilo minsan! How many times have we jogged along CNHS oval while singing military chants?? Kapag me obstacle, naalala niyo pa ba?? Sobrang...nagawa natin yun??? And how about our trip to Tagaytay? Nakakita ba si Roda nun ng ahas o timbabalak? Basta alam ko lang na-shock siya nun sa damuhan! Hehehe! Eh yung mga...."talupaaaaaadaaaaaaa." Yung mga paghahabol natin sa mga officers natin para lang sumaludo naalala niyo pa? What about the feeling the first time a cadet saluted us? High!

Yung time gumagawa tayo ng Caviteñan? Si Chris, Checo at Ces sobrang... hats off ako sa mga taong yan sa pagiging dedicated sa campus organ natin. Sayang di ako nakasama sa RSPC.

Yung mga kalokohan ni Chichay? Remember nung nag-debate pa tayo kung "dugo" o "pawis" yung kamay na ipinakita dun sa Titanic habang naglo-lovemaking sina Jack at Rose? Eh sa mga ka-close namin diyan, naalala niyo pa ba yung "collection" niya ng bleep...bleep! Basta alam niyo na yun kung talagang kino-corner niyo si Chichay bago ang time sa journalism! Hehe! And this I bet you will never forget: Miss United Nations? I have no face? Chay..what did you mean by that? Pero in fairness, you made quite an impression ha? I thought you were just goofing around when you said you're going to wear something outrageous. Outrageous indeed, as I almost dropped when I saw you coming out of the pack! Hehehe!

Speaking of Titanic, remember how crazy we were about Jack and Rose? Hey, Chris you still have the pin-ups, news articles and pictures of Titanic? Remember nag pa photocopy pa tayo nun? Remember how we cried when Jack died?

And how about basketball? Sobrang addict ang klase nun sa basketball! Si Cynthia solid Vince Hizon yan! Si Jade maka-Jerry! Si Jack maka-Olsen! Si Rhoda..hmm.. Rodney Santos? Si Imee..Rommel Santos? (san na nga kaya si Rommel)? Remember yung mga kantiyawan? Nung nanalo si Ces sa ending?

And how about our collective passion for music? Oy, yung mga maka-EHeads diyan lumabas na. Eh, tayong mga maka-Rivermaya, papatalo ba? Remember nung second year nagdadala pa talaga tayo ng mga tapes nila. At sa mga songhits..my God...paramihan yata!

And how about our adventures with Ma'am Ocampo? Remember the first time we met her? Sa sobrang takot ko talagang iniksian ko ang palda ko. Si Paula naman...nag necktie talaga! As in yung parang di na siya makahinga. Remember nung pinagalitan niya tayo and ended her sermon with "do you know where you're going to" that made us smile? It surely made her smile, too! Kanta yun eh!

Remember how we used to call Ma'am Kit "Garfield?"

Remember how Ma'am Guiao asked me, "Duling ka ba o tanga?"

Rmember the first time we made Ma'am Tapiru really..really mad???

Remember how Miss Antig used to dismissed us by saying "evaporate?"

Ah, if I had to enumerate the times we've been together baka maubos yung space. Where are you? Do you still remember these? I hope you do. It's been 8 long years and God knows when shall we meet again. But wherever you go you will always be a part of me. These memoris may be nothing to you pero sa akin it reminds me of one thing:

Tama si Inay...

High School life...oh my highschool life so exciting..kay ganda.

PUREFOODS NOTCHES 500TH WIN IN FRANCHISE HISTORY

Win over Express also gives Giants longest win streak under Gregorio
Wednesday, 10 May 2006


PUREFOODS Chunkee coach Ryan Gregorio was, in a way, thankful that Air 21 shipped Ren-Ren Ritualo prior to their game Sunday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

But even without the league’s third best scorer, the Giants found the Express a lot more dangerous and needed two big threes from Roger and James Yap in the stretch to salvage a 93-86 victory that sent the franchise into the record books.

Their fifth consecutive win and 10th overall in 13 games also moved the Giants on the threshold of securing one of two outright spots in the Gran Matador Brandy PBA Philippine Cup.

“I’m glad the wins come before the losses. Few weeks ago I thought the record was not achievable,” said Gregorio, referring to the victory that enabled Purefoods to join San Miguel Beer, Ginebra and Alaska as the only teams to win at least 500 games in the league’s 32-year history.

The five straight wins is also Purefoods longest win streak under Gregorio since he first took over the team in 2002.

But the Giants had to keep their poise and turn to the two Yaps when the Express threatened to turn the game around.

The Giants led by as many as 15 in the first half but the Express managed to battle back and a lay-up by Stephen Padilla with 8:29 remaining pulled the Express within 66-68.

“Without Ren-Ren, it’s easy for us to double at the post. And of course the absence of Ren-Ren means one scorer less to worry,” Gregorio explained.

But the Purefoods coach said the trade that sent Ritualo to the Talk ‘N Text Phone Pals for Leo Avenino and two future draft picks will definitely make the Express a more defensive team.

“It showed. They forced us to commit too many errors,” said Gregorio, who seemed surprised when he saw the boxscores showing they had committed 29 turnovers.

But Roger Yap and James Yap cautioned the impact of Air 21’s repeated rallies by knocking down consecutive threes that led to a 13-6 run for a comfortable 81-72 advantage with 4:04 to go.

James Yap took scoring honors with 22 points and Kerby Raymundo added 21 for the Giants, who offset their 29 turnovers by making the big shots and the crucial stops at the right time.

“This win is so special. It makes me so proud of my team. Considering that we are down to eight men and still managed to find ways to win gives us some sense of pride,” offered Gregorio, who have lost Eugene Tejada, Noy Castillo and Jondan Salvador to various injuries.

Adding to the Giants’ woes late in the first quarter was veteran forward Jun Limpot, who, after just about a minute coming into the game, went down with an ankle sprain after a jumpshot, landing his right foot on Yancy de Ocampo’s left foot and twisting it.

Ronald Tubid showed the way for the Express with 18 points. Ranidel de Ocampo had 16 and Yancy de Ocampo added 10 rebounds for the Express who pulled within one on several occasions but couldn’t make the big shots that Ritualo used to hit when the team needed it. Ritualo averages 19.5 points a game, best at Air21 and third-best overall in the conference. (DBC)

----------

HONESTLY, it wasn't the prettiest of games if only for the fact that they committed 29 turnovers! 29? This is way above their average of 18TOs a game! Had Air21 capitalized in all of those 29, they would have given up at least 58 points! They cannot afford to play that kind of basketball especially if they were to reach the semifinals. Errors create transition points and it help dictate the tempo in favor of fast breaking teams like Red Bull or Talk N Text. Hence, shooting themselves in the foot won’t help them establish their gritty kind of defense, that’s for sure.

Good thing JY and KR kept their composure by hitting the big shots just as Tubid and company were threatening to make a comeback. But in fairness to Air21, it looks like they are finally convinced that they can win more games if they do it on defense. With the expulsion of offensive-minded Ritualo, expect Air21 to improve their defense and grit up to a notch.

Anyway, offensively, they executed well. In fact, they shot a decent 47% from the field. They've had a lot of open looks, which ended up in either converted baskets or trips to the line. And speaking of trips to the line, PF was able to register 85.7% clip from the stripe as they only missed 4 shots in 28 attempts. This was very important as it prevented Air21 from applying a "hack-a-shaq" type of defense, which would have been possible as they have guys out there who play very physical basketball. KR went 6-of-6 from the line while JY converted 6-of-8 free throws. If they continue to shoot well from the charity line up until the playoffs, other teams would have to think of other ways to defend them aside from being physical.

Defensively, they made the right stops. They shutdown Wynne Arboleda and Nino Canaleta who shot 3-of-10 and 5-of-17 from the field. Perhaps, these guys just missed the presence of Ren Ren Ritualo but considering their abilities to score, PF still made a good job in defending against them.

There are reasons for PF followers to be glad. One, PF has won it's 5-straight. Second, they assured themselves of a playoff for the semis slot. Lastly, they entered the history book by registering their franchise' 500th victory along with BGK, SMB and Alaska.

Come to think of it, it wasn't bad after all!


PF plays Red Bull on Sunday, May 14, 2006.

MY WEBSITE

Why fix it if it aint broken? Who says it aint broken?

BELOW is the writer's opinion on player acquisition:


It seems that the majority of us [PF Fans] have been overwhelmed by the fact that the Giants are 9-3 and just a few games away to return to the semis. That's okay. It's already a huge accomplishment. But why settle for being better when we can be the best? If there's an opportunity for them to get stronger, then why should they pass up on it? This is why I admire TNT's management very much. They won't stop until they become better, more formidable. Sure, they're at the bottom of the pack this conference but with the acquisition of Ritualo and Allado, they can surely improve their chances! Yes, we might be ahead of other teams in terms of chemistry but that doesn't mean we'll rest on that. We've got so many work to do.

"Why fix it if it aint broken??"

This was the same cliche Siot Tanquincen blurted on the media months ago. But look at Barangay now? Where are they now? They lack on the small forward position but they didn't even go to the market to shop one. Eric Menk was hurting and IMHO, they should've gotten Homer Se when PF shipped him back to Air21, but lo and behold, they let the poor man play in agony! Are we to commit the same miscalculations, too?

Truth is, we lack a true center and a third pointguard.

Kerby Raymundo, Marc Pingris and Richard Yee are doing a commendable job at the center slot but it wouldn't take a genius to know that sooner or later, it will take its toll. Note, we haven't won against Taulava and we didn't beat San Miguel in a highly convincing fashion. What does it mean? It means beating tall and bulky team is like climbing Mt. Everest! We were lucky we had a Marquin Chandler during the Fiesta Cup who created alot of mismatches at the middle. He compensated his lack of heft with his quickness and his superb outside shooting. But we no longer have him on the team right now. This is why I had some ill feelings when we let go of Homer Se. Yes, he may have a bum knee but he could still give us 3 or 5 quality minutes. We hired Gamboa to fill the void at number 5 but I can't figure out how he could help us. Can he help us in the same way Se could've helped us? But we hired him anyway, so that's about it.

Then there's the lack of another quality pointguard. In my opinion, Purefoods needs a back-up pointguard who has a "deadly" perimeter touch similar to Boyet Fernandez. Boyet was never a superb playmaker but when he's fielded in, you know something's going to happen. There's no safe lead when he is around as he can drill three-points after three-points! Remember how he won that semifinal series against Tanduay for us? I think that's what we're lacking. Roger Yap is good but he's more effective in slashing the middle, not shooting from the outside. We need a small guy right there to hit the long jumpers esp. when the clock is running out or during secondary breaks. Paul Artadi's shooting has improved but he has yet to be consistent in doing it. Anyway, Stephen Padilla was released by Alaska. I thought we should try him out.

Don't get me wrong. I'm happy at where the team is right now. But I'm also in favor of acquiring at least 2 more quality players for the team when the appropriate time comes (draft season/off season). A nucleus of 6-7 players is enough to build for the future.

DEFENSE DOES IT ANEW FOR PUREFOODS

Giants make it 4 in a row; Beermen’s streak ends at 7
Friday, 05 May 2006

ANTIPOLO CITY. -- The Purefoods Chunkee Giants showed the San Miguel Beermen why they are the conference's top defensive team.

With an outright passage in the semifinal as their motivation, the Giants dealt the Beermen an 82-75 decision Friday night and put an end to a five-game losing slump at the Ynares Center.

But more importantly, the Giants put themselves in good spot that could lead them into the finals of the Gran Matador Brandy PBA Philippine Cup.

Their fourth consecutive victory and ninth overall in 12 games enabled the Giants to pull abreast with the Beermen at first place and put them closer to a free ride into the Final Four.

"That's our goal," said Purefoods Chunkee coach Ryan Gregorio, whose team played minues key players Noy Castillo and Eugene Tejada because of injuries.

James Yap showed the way for the Giants with 19 points despite shooting just 7-for-16. Marc Pingris, who hurt his wrist after a bad fall midway in the second quarter, cornered a career-high-tying 17 rebounds for the second straight game as Purefoods Chunkee outrebounded San Miguel, 49-42.

"Sometimes I'm amazed with the way my players playing. They've been showing tremendous character. They just battle and battle and make no complaints. The moment they step onto the court, all they want is to win," Gregorio said.

"We know the odds going into this game. We know how tough a team is San Miguel and we know we can't win against them on a scoring game. If we have to win we have to defend well."

And defend the Giants did.

The Giants took control in the second quarter by holding the Beermen to 35 percent shooting and 37 percent for the game. Purefoods made 45 percent of their shots (36-of-80). The loss snapped the Beermen's seven game winning run.

Prior to the game, San Miguel Beer was averaging a third conference-best 95.2 points per game and scored at least 93 points in their seven-game winning run. But against the Giants Friday night, the Beermen were held to their second lowest output in the conference, which was next only to their 75-72 loss to Coca-Cola last March 19.

Danny Seigle took scoring honors with 21 points but Pingris and Rey Evangelista – who best typified Purefoods' tough "D" -- managed to contain him when the Beermen needed his firepower.

"I felt somewhat scared when Marc was entertaining thoughts of not coming back in the game after hurting his wrist. But I persuaded him, telling him we can't win this one without him. Thank God he changed his mind," Gregorio said.

After Chris Calaguio, who had eight points, knocked in a three-pointer for a 35-28 SMB lead, Pingris scored six straight points that led to a 16-6 blast which enabled Purefoods to clinch a 44-41 lead at halftime.

The Beermen slowly got their rhythm in the second half and appeared to have regained the momentum when Dorian Pena, who recorded his conference-leading 10th double-double (19 points, 13 rebounds) pulled the SMB to within 70-71 with 6:46 to go.

But Kerby Raymundo scored on a reverse then followed up a miss by James Yap before Evangelista scored on a layup as the Giants pushed the lead to five points.

The Giants then safely protected that lead by holding the Beermen to just a field goal in the last five minutes. (DBC)

The scores:

Purefoods 82 – Yap J. 19, Yap R. 13, Limpot 10, Raymundo 10, Simon 7, Evangelista 7, Artadi 6, Pingris 6, Gamboa 2, Yee 2.

San Miguel Beer 75 – Seigle D. 21, Pena 19, Ildefonso 9, Calaguio 8, Hontiveros 8, Racela 6, Adriano 2, Noble 2, Cablay 0.

-------------

IT was a great win for the Giants as it once again proved that they are the best defensive team in the PBA. Not only that they continued to sustain their winning streak, they now share the top spot with SMB and only few games away to get a back-to-back automatic semis berth!

The key for the win was the shutting down of Danny Seigle and the lackluster performance of Dondon Hontiveros. In the first half, Seigle seemed to be scoring at will, hitting shots after shots. There was even a point wherein he dunked the ball to the hoop while eluding the defense of Marc Pingris. Luckily, RG and KB has done the right defensive adjustment in order to slow down the SMB juggernaut. Alot of credit should also be given to Rey Evangelista, Roger Yap and Pingris as they made the right double teaming effort on Seigle which unable him to hit his stride especially in the fourth quarter. On the other hand, it was commendable on the part of our guards to have made Hontiveros commit on defense resulting to an early-foul trouble. Somehow it threw him out of his rhythm. Had he not gotten into foul trouble, he would've been another viable options for San Miguel especially in their offensive thrust, hence, another headache for RG.

And what about the rebounding?

SMB is a very tall team especially with the 3 D's in the lineup. Losing the rebound battle would have been a no-brainer. Thankfully, the Giants were able to pick the rights spots to grab those rebounds that resulted to numerous capitalized possessions. And speaking of rebounds, the team should be proud with the way Pingris has contributed in this department. Bruised, winded and all due to a bad fall, yet, Ping was able to deliver! Slowly, he's turning out to be one of the cornerstones of this franchise. He's a player who plays bigger than his height and an athlete with a big heart.

James Yap and Kerby Raymundo, as usual provided the leadership and the scoring sack. Both rose to the occassion just when the team needed them the most. R. Yap on the other hand finished were he left off in the All-Stars and scored 15 all-important points and dished out 6 assists.

All in all, it was a good game. We were able to dictate the tempo and we got our bench players, esp. Jun limpot and PJ Simon involved which is very crucial as we are nearing the playoffs. Defensively, it was superb. Looks like 80 is our magic number. We limit our opponent to 80 points or below and we shall win.

MY WEBSITE
To view MYPBA thread please click here.

The Da Vinci Code

DAN Brown’s best selling novel is undoubtedly one of the most controversial novels of the decade as it tried to suggest a seemingly subversive notion that Jesus Christ was a man, a lover and a father.

With that said, Mr. Brown is now a deadbeat.

At least that’s for some tight, devout Roman Catholics. That’s pretty understandable as the content of the novel directly deviates to the norms of standard religious upbringing.

But what’s surprising is the fact that this was not the first time a writer dwell on the topic of Christ’s alleged “undisclosed” life. There have been many who tried to reveal the same message but none has made quite a stir like the Da Vinci Code. Perhaps, this is due to the fact that it’s written on a context of a suspense-thriller that caters to a more eager audience. Had it been written in a strict historical tone, I think it would fail to get the same blockbuster attention.

Indeed, Brown is phenomenal. He surely made a lot of fortune with it.

And a lot of enemies, too! Well, sort of.

But as a fan of literature, I am delighted with how Brown created a smorgasbord of truths, half-truths and lies to weave together a spell-bounding, unputdownable storyline. I don’t see it becoming this generation’s new Bible, but it is indeed a good source of entertainment and fun read.

Now let’s move on to the merits of the novel.

First, contrary to popular belief, the Da Vinci Code is not anti-Christian. In fact, according to Brown, it’s not anti-something. Sure we should not take his word for it, but in my own honest opinion, Brown never tipped the balance of good and evil in the story. With his creative genius, he tried his best to paint his characters and all entities in a fair light. While some book will preach what is right or wrong, the Da Vinci Code remained the middle ground. It is simply shouting in front of us telling that, “all of us are sinners and our mistakes will never be corrected by committing another mistake.”

Second, it’s not that the book did not serve any purpose. With its worldwide popularity, the novel has served as a mechanism for people to regain their interest on the universal topic of faith and religion. It’s a wakeup call to search for the truth concerning the very foundations of our spirituality, consequently the essence of our beliefs.

And since we are now in the mood for religious debates and discussions, the Church should see it as an opportune time to clear the way for enlightenment. They should take a step forward and help us segregate the facts from fiction. This is a tall order on the part of the religious but they should deal with the matter with utmost openness and resolve.

No, calls for banning the book and the up and coming film adaptation won’t help one bit as it will only add to the hype and shall make the religious community appear guilty and apathetic.

Simply put, the novel should serve as a challenge and not a threat.

In parting, let’s remember that the Da Vinci Code is a work of fiction though sprinkled with interesting trivia and ideals. Hence, we are being asked to have our own interpretations. But it doesn’t matter how it’s gonna be for as long as it makes us a better human being with a more profound understanding of our faith and spirituality.

Will Caguioa Run Naked Along The Boulevard?

THE defending champion Barangay Ginebra Kings may soon raise the white flag and Mark Caguioa’s pants might go down with it!

OK, so the PBA is not even halfway through the classification round but the Kings is visibly impaired having lost Romel Adducul, Andy Seigle and Rodney Santos to various injuries. Eric Menk may soon join the bandwagon as he’s still suffering from bone spurs in his ankle. Fate seems inevitable. These four guys are vital in Siot Tanguincen’s rotation. Without them, Ginebra’s bench looks a box of spare parts. The Kings and the throne “might” soon be going down.

So, we can’t help but go back to that fateful Sunday afternoon when Caguioa quipped on national television that he will run naked along Shaw Boulevard shall the Kings fail to win yet another championship.

Will he do it?

No, I don’t think he would for 3 reasons:

First, he was just kidding for Pete’s sake when he said that! He didn’t mean it. Besides, he’s not the first person in the world who ever joked around like that. So what’s the fuzz all about? Come on people, where’s your sense of humor?

Second, even if he meant what he said, he’d have an alibi to excuse himself from running along the national road with his dingdong. He can always say that he was just goofing around to rev up his teammates because they are the defending champions of the Philippine Cup. Or say that he was very confident at that moment because Menk and company was healthy! He could even fault ABC for broadcasting his wisecrack like a Bible verse! Pretty convenient, isn’t it?

Lastly, let’s get realistic here; even if he’s a man of his words, do you really think he’ll be allowed to do it by, say the City of Mandaluyong for example? No, simply because anyone who decides to sprint in public wearing only his/her birth suit is a public offense. He could be charged with grave scandal much like the notorious Baywalk Bodies! No, I doubt if he’ll get a crack on doing such a bawdy stunt, unless he coincides it with the APO’s oblation run. He might just have to wait ‘till December.

OK so let’s get serious now.

I think there’s more to running naked here that Caguioa should keep in mind. He swore to put the Philippine Cup championship in the bag. He should keep it!

From now on, Caguioa should take it upon himself to carry the leadership cudgels for Ginebra.

Nope, an all-star-sized tantrum cannot help!

In the process of leading his team, he might be required to pull off some MVP or Jordanesque tricks on both sides of the floor. Or he could be like Steve Nash who “figured out” how to make Raja Bell and Boris Diaw better players in lieu of All-Star Amare.

It’s a pretty hard task, actually. But Caguioa has already placed himself at the point of no return at the start of the conference. He cannot afford to disappoint the Ginebra fans.

Well, the only consolation that Ginebra followers have is that Caguioa plays better when faced by challenges. He doesn’t say die. I’m just not sure if he could still do it considering the gravity of the situation.

From now on, Caguioa should know that he may have an alibi to break away from the dare but he can’t have any for Barangay’s beating.

Indeed, the man is on a hard mission. He needs to have a miracle to back him up.

For now, the white flag might have to wait ‘till it is raised and his pants should also wait ‘till it’s unzipped!