OFFICIAL PBA THREAD

3 IN A ROW FOR TNT AS CARDONA, J-WASH SHINE
Tigers drop 6th in last 7 assignments in the recent Philippine Cup, the Pals inched closer to the top, moving within a game of the third-running Alaska Aces (7-4).

Mark Cardona and Jay Washington did some stretching for their stint in the coming All-Star activities, leading the team to their sixth win in 11 games.

Cardona, who is to make his debut in the All-Star Game, collected 21 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Washington, who is to play in the Blitz Game, gathered 14 points, six rebounds and one steal.

The duo combined for 17 points as the Pals outscored the Tigers 28-14, in the fourth quarter.

Talk N Text actually limited Coca-Cola to two points while making 15 of its own in the last five minutes of play.

"That remains my No. 1 concern for this team walang consistency. Itinapon yong double-digit lead sa first quarter at kinailangan pang maghabol," rued Pumaren.

The Pals squandered a 31-20 lead at the end of the opening period, fell behind by seven, 45-52, at the half and needed to work hard to regain the upper hand at 79-78.

Don Allado and Felix Belano did their share as the Pals outplayed the Tigers at the finish and went on to duplicate their 102-87 victory in their first meeting last March 14.

Jeff Varem had a double-double performance with 26 points and 16 rebounds but the Tigers still fell short of their bid to arrest their skid.

They slid to 4-7, having lost six of their last seven games.

"Well take a rest the next few days then return to practice. The sad part is that were up against a Red Bull team coming off a loss at the resumption of our campaign," said Pumaren.

"At least, mataas ang kumpiyansa ng mga bata," Pumaren added.

The scores:

Talk N Text 97Sullinger 21, Cardona 21, Washington 14, Carey 11, Allado 11, Belano 8, Billones 5, De Ocampo 4, Pablo 2, Noble 0.

Coca-Cola 86 Varem 26, Peek 23, Cabagnot 13, Tolomia 10, Antonio 6, Avenido 4, Calimag 2, Arigo 2, Yeo 0, Duremdes 0.

Quarterscores: 31-20, 45-52, 69-72, 97-86.
 
Refs guru bats for PBA reforms of a step-by-step process. Ive suggested some mechanical changes and talked about seat-belt rules for coaches. I"ve stressed the importance of discipline because it breeds respect for authority."

If he returns, Richardson said he will gather the PBA coaches and referees for on-court sessions once in the preseason and once more in mid-season. "I will encourage discussion among the coaches and referees," he said. "Coaches can run through plays and clarify what constitutes a foul. This is a process where both sides earn mutual respect. Nothing social, strictly professional."

One aspect that Richardson emphasized to PBA referees is avoiding ticky-tacky calls.

"My rule is dont stop the music," said Richardson. "Fans want to hear music, not whistles. Dont call a foul unless contact affects a play. For as long as contact doesnt interfere with the game, it should be let go. Dont rob the excitement of the game."

Richardson said the PBAs 16 referees are in a privileged position because aside from those in the NBA, theyre the only full-time whistle-blowers in the world.

"My conclusion is PBA referees are honest and human," said Richardson. "A player missing a layup or committing a turnover means hes human. Its the same thing with a referee who misses a call. I notice a lack of respect for referees and it isnt right. I know respect is earned but the lottery system of choosing referees 30 minutes before a game is appalling, degrading and distrustful. You cant expect a referee to be mentally and physically prepared to work a game 30 minutes before it starts. In the Euroleague, referees are assigned two weeks before a game and FIBA assigns referees four weeks before.
 
Realtors pin hopes on new import
By Joaquin Henson
The Philippine Star 04/26/2007

Despite a 3-7 record at the All-Star break, Sta. Lucia Realty coach Boyet Fernandez said yesterday the goal of clinching an outright quarterfinals slot in the PBA Fiesta Conference is achievable and new import Jamaal Williams will play a major role in the campaign.

Williams, 24, flew in from Seattle the other night. He takes over from original import Rock Winston who left yesterday with a recurring back problem that flared up two games ago.

"No question about Rocks talent and attitude," said Fernandez. "He suffered a car accident a year ago and hes still feeling pain in his back because of it. We put him in the injured list. Were lucky to get Jamaal who gives us a post presence and a big man in the middle. Hell help us in rebounding and inside defense."

Williams was recommended by Los Angeles-based Filipino recruiter Roger Jimenez through agent Tod Ramassar who also represents Golden State guard Baron Davis.

"Jamaal plays like Elton Brand," said Jimenez. "Hes 6-5 but weighs 240 pounds with a 75-inch wingspan. Hes bigger than Winston. Hes just what the doctor ordered for Sta. Lucia."

Williams played two years for the University of New Mexico and two years for the University of Washington in the NCAA. As a senior in 2005-06, he averaged 13.8 points and 4.7 rebounds, shooting .496 from the field and .671 from the line. He shot 27 points in his farewell varsity game, a 98-92 overtime Washington loss to Connecticut in the Sweet 16.

"Jamaal is a great weapon offensively and he demands the attention of the opposing teams defense," said Washington coach Lorenzo Romar. "He has a real knack of putting the ball in the basket. He plays probably three inches taller than his actual size (and) has a nose for the ball, too."

Williams was among the final Golden State cuts in tryouts last year.

Fernandez said from watching Williams on tape, hes a legitimate post player. "He can run the break and play four or five," he noted. "Hes what we need down low."

Fernandez said hes optimistic of the Realtors chances in the second half of the double round eliminations.

"Were not putting ourselves under pressure," said Fernandez. "This is a learning experience for all of us. Morale is high and were staying positive. Weve got a long way to go and making it to the top five is a realistic goal. Were determined to prove something that we can work and win together as a team."

Fernandez said veterans Dennis Espino and Marlou Aquino are undergoing therapy for ailing knees but should be up to 80 percent when Sta. Lucia plays Air21 next Wednesday.

"Their conditioning is fine but the pain is still there," said Fernandez. "Theyre doing rehab and reporting for practice up to Saturday. We take a break on Sunday then were back in the gym on Monday with Kelly (Williams) and Denok (Miranda) wholl be gone for the All-Star Week."

Fernandez said Paolo Mendoza begged off from the All-Star 3-point shootout to attend to a family obligation and Williams will take his spot. Cesar Catli was also excused because of his graduation at FEU.

Fernandez said the trade that sent Alex Cabagnot, Ricky Calimag and Kenneth Duremdes to Coca-Cola for Miranda was initiated by the Tigers. "We didnt want to let Alex go but we thought of our salary cap for the next draft where were looking at Ken Bono, Doug Kramer, Rob Reyes if hes available or J. C. Intal."

Fernandez said he expects even more from Kelly Williams in the battle for a quarterfinals ticket.

"Kelly is playing so well and he still has a lot to show," he said. "Were giving him all the support. You can now see the chemistry in our team. We recently reactivated Paeng (Santos) and Mark (Magsumbol) because they deserve the chance to play after sacrificing so long in the reserve list. Were giving everyone a chance to show their worth."
 
ALL-STARS WOW SAN FERNANDO, LA UNION
Canaleta, Miller, Hontiveros, Miranda, Rookies Steal Show and never looked back to complete the one-sided victory.

Tenorio had eight points and Santos six in a 23-6 start that set the tone of the match early.

But that wasnt the case in the skills events.

Hontiveros ruled the PBA All-Star three-point shootout in his third try, beating Miller by the thinnest of margins, 16-15, in the finals.

Taking a break from training with the RP team, Hontiveros, third placer in 2005 and eighth in 2004,
totaled 16 points in a performance in the finals he marked with conversion of three money balls, including the final one capping a four-point production in the fifth and last rack.

The San Miguel hotshot, shooting third to last in the finale, went on to win the contest in stunning fashion as Miller, the last man to shoot, missed his final shot and finished with 15.

Air21s Gary David, the leader among the locals in scoring in the current PBA Fiesta Cup, came in third with 14 while Ginebras Mark Caguioa wound up fourth with 12.

The top three placers will team up to take on Ato Agustin, Pido Jarencio and Boyet Fernandez in the
Legends Shootout in Baguio Saturday.

Falling by the wayside after the elimination round were Larry Fonacier (14), Kerby Raymundo (13),
reigning champion William Antonio (11), Renren Ritualo (10) and Nino Gelig (six). Miller
topped the eliminations with 19 followed by Hontiveros with 16 and Caguioa and David with 15 apiece.

Canaleta went on to win a record third straight slam dunk competition with his chief rivals falling one
after another on a missed jam.

The Air21 leaper wowed the crowd by taking off just after the free throw line then soaring above a man for a thunderous one-hander. He followed it up with a windmill side-winder to beat Jay Washington, 79-54, in the finals.

A serious threat in Kelly Williams failed to make it past the elims as the Sta. Lucia prized Fil-Am failed to convert twice a between-the-legs jam.

Malaking pressure ang nawala sa akin noong nawala si Kelly, said Canaleta.

Others entered in the event were Santos, Espinas, Aaron Aban and Ronald Tubid.

Miller failed to make good his vow to win the three-point shootout but still had something to crow
about at the close of the skills events since he beat David by a second in topping the obstacle challenge.

The former Letran Knight clocked 30 seconds to Davids 31 seconds and Mirandas and Alex Cabagnots similar 50-second clockings in the obstacle challenge finals.

In the elims, Cabagnot was the fastest at 30 seconds followed by Miller, David and Miranda at 33, Topex Robinson 35, LA Tenorio 38, Helterbrand 39, Jimmy Alapag 40, Jireh Ibanes 48 and Roger Yap 51.

The scores:


Rookies 122 Santos 31, Tenorio 18, Reyes 17, Andaya 17, Yeo 13, Espinas 13, Ibanes 11, Aban 2.

Sophomores 107 Washington 28, Canaleta 25, Macapagal 23, Bugia 8, Miranda 8, Cabagnot 7, Najorda 6, Holper 2.

Quarterscores: 38-18, 60-43, 84-73, 122-107
 
NORTH, SOUTH ALL-STARS RARIN TO WIN GAME 7
Taulava, Caguioa trade barbs, each one declaring his team will winers.

Eric Menk, voted as a starter for the South, is sitting out the game due to a calf injury.

Red Bulls Cyrus Baguio was also supposed to come off the bench for the South but a recent heart attack to his father forced him to miss out not only the game but also the Slam Dunk competition last Thursday.

Left as the South reserves are Sunday Salvacion, Sonny Thoss, Jimmy Alapag, Ronald Tubid, Tony dela Cruz and Roger Yap.

The North relievers are Enrico Villanueva, Ranidel de Ocampo, Larry Fonacier, Gary David, John Arigo and Mark Cardona. Villanueva will be the team's sixth man as he emerged as the top vote-getter here.

The South won the All-Star Game in Cagayan de Oro last year with Taulava emerging as the MVP after finishing with 30 points, 16 rebounds, two assists and two steals in a 122-120 win which also had Roger Yap playing a key role in the endgame.

Taulava, who also shared All-Star Game MVP honors with Alapag in 2004 in Cebu City, is confident he can come out with another MVP-like performance and lead the team to back-to-back victories.

Theres no question, its a given, said Taulava.

Caguioa, however, thinks otherwise: Walang kuwenta ang sinabi ni Asi at kayo na ang mag-translate nun para sa kanya," the Ginebra stalwart quipped in jest
 
NEALY TOWS GINEBRA TO FIFTH STRAIGHT WIN
League-leading Kings rout Welcoat in top-vs-bottom meeting
Wednesday, 02 May 2007

Rod Nealy outscored the entire Welcoat squad in the first period as Barangay Ginebra streaked to its fifth straight win Wednesday night with a 103-71 rout of the Dragons at the resumption of the Talk N Text-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum following the All-Star break.
The conferences leading scorer, Nealy had 22 of his 38 points in the first 12 minutes of play the most by any player in a quarter this season as the Kings more than doubled Welcoats output in the period, 36-15, settling the outcome of the game early. He also added 17 rebounds and four assists while shooting 4-of-5 from 3-point range and 13-of-21 overall from the field.

It was also the most points scored in a quarter by any player since league MVP James Yap had 23 in the final period of a 94-92 Purefoods loss to Alaska in Game 1 of their best-of-7 semifinal on June 18, 2006 in last seasons Philippine Cup.

As Ive always said, Nealy is a perfect fit for us, said Barangay Ginebra head coach Jong Uichico. He compliments the locals well and vice-versa.
Were also playing a team. Everybody knows their roles and they are doing what they have to do, Uichico added.

Nealys 31 points after the first half alone was also a season-high and the most by any player in a half since Mark Caguioas 34 in the second half of the Kings 118-114 OT win over Air21 June 4 last year also in the 2006 Philippine Cup. As early as the 8:35 mark of the third period, the former Houston Baptist University standout had already exceeded his 32.1 scoring average in the conference.

Barangay Ginebra, which improved its conference-best record to 9-2, went on to lead by as many as 33 points in the one-sided game as the Kings also improved to 4-0 against Welcoat this season with three of those wins by at least 21 points each.

The Dragons, who lost their fifth straight game, fell deeper down the cellar with their 2-9 record and are in danger of not making it to the playoffs for the second straight conference.

It was also Welcoats second worst loss in the PBA, its worst also coming against Barangay Ginebra 102-69 in both teams season debuts October 1 last year.

Curiously, the Kings, who barely defeated the Dragons 99-97 in their first meeting in the conference last March 16 with Eric Menk, Rudy Hatfield and Johnny Abarrientos seeing action, carved out Sundays bigger win without those three players who are either injured or on a personal leave.

All thanks to Nealy, who also spoiled the debut of new Welcoat import Wayland White.

The Dragons third import this conference was good for only 12 points as he was only 5-for-12 from the floor and 2-of-10 from the 15-foot line. He also had four turnovers and only two rebounds in 36 minutes of action.

Nagkataon din lang siguro na bago ang import ng Welcoat at nag-a-adjust pa, added Uichico in trying to explain the easy win.

Only two other Ginebra players finished in double figures with Ronald Tubid and rookie Jec Chia tallying 18 and 10 points, respectively, but all 11 players fielded by Uichico finished with at least three points for the Kings who outrebounded Welcoat 58-36 and blanked the Dragons in fastbreaks 13-0.

Rookie JayR Reyes paced Welcoat with 20 points and seven rebounds.

The scores:

Barangay Ginebra 103 Nealy 38, Tubid 18, Chia 10, Seigle A. 9, Mamaril 7, Holper 4, Echavez 4, Salvacion 4, Macapagal 3, Hubalde 3, Santos 3.

Welcoat 71 Reyes 20, White 12, Compton 12, Lopez 8, Ibanes 7, Wainwright 5, Gelig 4, Cabatu 3, Baguion 0, Sta. Maria 0, Lao 0, Mente 0.
Quarterscores: 36-15, 58-35, 83-56, 103-71.
 
AIR21 SUBDUES SLR TO GAIN SHARE OF 2ND
Express spoil new Realtors import Williams impressive debut
Wednesday, 02 May 2007


Returning from the All-Star break, coach Bo Perasol was worried his boys would come out flat, their minds not yet focused on the game at hand. He was wrong.

Air21 was businesslike in its 106-100 win over Sta. Lucia Realty and its new import Jamaal Williams, keeping its hot streak going to catch up with Red Bull at second place in the 2007 Talk N Text PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday night.

Gary David, the league-leading local scorer, scored a game-high 22 points while Shawn Daniels came through with a solid all-round game with 18 points, 18 rebounds, six blocks, four steals and two assists and Wynne Arboleda added 21 points and seven assists to negate Williams 36-point explosion in his debut with the Realtors.

Mark Telan and Nino Canaleta also put in significant numbers for the Express who outmaneuvered the Realtors at the finish on the way to their third straight win and their eighth in 11 games overall.

The Express drew level with the Barakos at second place, a game behind the league-leading Barangay Ginebra Kings at 9-2.

The Realtors suffered a fourth successive loss and slid to 3-8.

"I was worried we might have lost our competitiveness because of the All-Star break. Im happy my players proved me wrong," said Perasol.

"Medyo hindi nakasabay ang Sta. Lucia when we quickened the pace. We also made crucial stops and they missed crucial shots at endgame. Nagsama-sama yon sa panalo namin," Perasol added.

The Realtors put up a tough fight while getting a big lift from their two Williams' Jamaal and Kelly. But they did muff key shots at the finish, allowing the Express to stay on a roll.

Jamaal could really be what the doctor ordered for Sta. Lucia. The former University of New Mexico stalwart went 14-of-29 from the field and 8-of-9 from the stripe for 36 points and also logged 13 rebounds, two steals, one assist and one block in 41 minutes of play.

Curiously, he had matched Rock Winstons 18-point average right in the first half.

Jamaal also drew needed support from Kelly Williams, Marlou Aquino and Paolo Mendoza, only for the team to lose the game as they sputtered at the finish.

Ahead by one at 100-99, Air21 got a big break as Denok Miranda fumbled a throw-in with 23 seconds to go. The Express went on to increase their lead to three on two free throws by Arboleda off a foul by Aquino.

The Express made a big turnaround in the third quarter, wiping out a 12-point deficit as they surged ahead, 78-77, going into the final period.

Arboleda, Telan and David provided the firepower as Air21 seized the upper hand after trailing most of the first three quarters.

The Realtors, riding high on the efforts of their two Williams', took the opening period at 23-18 and the first half at 55-44.

The scores:

Air21 106 David 22, Arboleda 21, Daniels 18, Telan 17, Canaleta 11, Dimaunahan 7, Santos 6, Se 2, Torion 2, Andaya 0, Bernardo 0.

Sta. Lucia 100 Williams J. 36, Williams K. 20, Aquino 16, Mendoza 13, Omolon 8, Isip 3, Miranda 2, Ramos 2, Magsumbol 0, Bughao 0, Santos 0, Gonzales 0.

Quarterscores: 18-23, 44-55, 78-77, 106-100.
 
TIGERS PULL THROUGH VERSUS GIANTS
Varem paces Coke with 26 points, 24 rebounds
Friday, 04 May 2007


Jeff Varem scored 26 points and pulled down a league season-high 24 rebounds and the Coca-Cola Tigers barely survived the challenge by a severely the depleted Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants, 80-77, Friday night in the 2007 Talk N Text-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Tigers trailed 70-66 with 7:11 remaining but seized control with a 13-6 run that took away the fight from the determined Giants.

We were concerned that they (Giants) are playing without their import because we knew what they are capable of doing, said Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis afterwards.

But Im proud with the way we played especially in the endgame. I thought (Chester) Tolomia did a good job defending (against) James Yap. But the key was the ability of our big men to protect the paint, Favis added.

Down by just a point , the Giants had a chance to force overtime when Coca-Cola center Ali Peek missed a short jumper and Richard Yee controlled the rebound.

After a timeout, the Giants went to James Yap, who quickly attacked the lane but slipped as Varem and John Arigo shut close his path to the basket. That play ended whatever chance the Giants had entertained.

Arigo finished with 14 points and his basket with 2:03 remaining gave the Tigers a 79-74 lead. Peek added 12 points and Alex Cabagnot had 10 and nine assists for Coca-Cola which improved to 5-7 and stayed in contention for an outright quarterfinal spot.

Purefoods played without import Marquin Chandler, who was serving a one-game suspension as a result of his ejection in their previous game against Red Bull, but his absence didnt seem to matter for the Giants, who gave the Tigers some scary moments.

The Giants appeared headed for an upset when Rey Evangelista gave Purefoods a 70-66 lead with 7:21 left. But they couldnt sustain the momentum, missing key baskets and turning the ball over on crucial possessions.

Peter Jun Simon showed the way for the Giants with 22 points, scoring all but one of his total points in the second quarter as he single-handedly carried the fight for the Giants, who picked up their eighth loss in 12 games.

James Yap, who missed his first nine shots from the floor, was the only other player in double-digit for the Giants with 20 points.

The Tigers held a 29-21 lead early in the second quarter but the Simon caught fire and led a ferocious Purefoods rally.

He scored 19 points to key a 21-9 run that shoved the Giants ahead 42-38 with 3:28 left in the second period before the Tigers scored the next seven points to take a three-point lead at halftime.

The scores:

Coca-Cola 80 Varem 26, Arigo 14, Peek 12, Cabagnot 10, Tolomia 7, Calimag 6, Duremdes 4, Avenido 1, Yeo 0, Antonio 0.

Purefoods 77 Simon 22, Yap J. 20, Yap R. 9, Artadi 8, Yee 6, Evangelista 4, Salvador 2, Limpot 2, Castillo 2, Camaso 2, Gamboa 0.
Quarterscores: 18-17, 45-42, 63-60, 80-77.
 
SULLINGER SIZZLES AS STREAKING TALK N TEXT WHIPS RED BULL
Cardona, De Ocampo lead locals charge; Valenzuela ejecteded to make his shots in the fourth quarter," said Pumaren.

Pumaren maintained their immediate goal is an outright seat in the quarters but said they would be happy if they gain automatic entry into the semis instead.

"Were looking at an outright seat in the quarters. Kung mag-top two, malaking bonus yan," said Pumaren.

The scores:

Talk n Text 127 Sullinger 35, Cardona 27, De Ocampo 25, Washington 9, Carey 8, Billones 8, Santos 4, Belano 4, Noble 3, Aldave 2, Pablo 2, Fran 0.

Red Bull 100 Penny 27, Fonacier 14, Najorda 12, Sharma 10, Alvarez 9, Baguio 9, Villanueva 8, Valenzuela 5, Bugia 3, Cruz 3, Ybanez 0, Robinson 0,
Hrabak 0.

Quarterscores: 26-17, 57-50, 86-77, 127-100.
 
RUSTY ALASKA ACES STILL FIND A WAY TO WIN
Thoss, Miller spearhead win over Welcoat in low-scoring game of the tournament.

Overall, Welcoat totes a 2-9 mark, making the Dragons a strong candidate for elimination for the second straight conference.

Alaska held a 37-31 lead early in the second quarter but a 3-pointer by Rob Wainwright led a 10-0 run that gave the Dragons a four-point lead.

The Dragons, who shot just 28 percent in the second quarter, couldnt hold on to it however as the Aces closed the period with a 17-9 run for a 54-50 lead at halftime.

Refusing to go away, the Dragons pulled within six at 56-62 with under seven minutes to play but Miller knocked in a three and Thoss sank three free throws to secure the victory.

The scores:

Alaska 74 Thoss 15, Miller 15, Ellis 13, Ferriols 10, Singson 6, Cariaso 6, Laure 5, Belasco 4, Aban 0, Hugnatan 0, Bajar 0, Juinio 0.

Welcoat 66 White 18, Wainwright 12, Lopez 9, Ibanes 8, Compton 7, Sta. Maria 7, Lao 3, Cabatu 2, Baguion 0, Gelig 0.

Quarterscores: 15-17, 31-31, 54-50, 74-66.
 
SAN MIGUEL TRIPS PUREFOODS, CONTINUES STEADY RISE
Racela, Gonzales heroics preserve Beermens streak
Sunday, 06 May 2007


Purefoods couldnt get its shots fall while San Miguel Beer couldnt even make a field-goal attempt.

In a wild and woolly finish highlighted by a fierce defensive battle, the Beermen pulled through, 78-75, by blanking the Giants in the final 1:37 of their game Sunday in the Talk n Text PBA Fiesta Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Wesley Gonzales came from the weak side to swat the ball away from Marquin Chandler then made two charities with time down to 7.4 seconds as the Beermen secured the win and once again drew level with the Coca-Cola Tigers at sixth place on their identical 5-7 win-loss card.

Purefoods actually still made one attempt to force overtime but Chandler misfired a three-pointer as time expired. The Giants slid to 4-9.

It was a sweet victory for the Beermen, specially the locals who gutted it out on the floor minus import Galen Young in the last six minutes of play. Young fouled out on what looked like a good acting job by Purefoods forward Jondan Salvador.

"It was a hard victory and the players deserved all the credit. They fought through adversity and they hung tough though we couldnt get the breaks," said San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen.

It was a tough defensive battle that had the Beermen forcing the Giants to throw bricks in the homestretch. Purefoods, on the other hand, had San Miguel committing three crucial errors in the final minute.

San Miguel, in fact, went without a field-goal basket in the last three minutes and instead got buffer from the foul line.

The Beermen made it 78-75 on two charities by Gonzales after Roger Yap committed a crucial turnover on an errant fast break pass to Rey Evangelista stolen by Olsen Racela.

"We got tremendous boost from Wesley tonight. He put in quality minutes and clinched the game for us," said Tanquingcen.

The San Miguel locals needed to step up with Young getting to foul-trouble early and eventually fouling out with six minutes to go. Young had made 14 points and 18 rebounds before heading to the showers early, though.

Racela had a big hand with his steal in the closing seconds his biggest contribution to his team. He produced 14 points, three steals, two rebounds and one assist.

Peter Simon scored 20 points to pace the Giants in the game marked by Chandlers return from a one-game suspension. Chandler, however, struggled for 15 points and 13 rebounds.

James Yap also struggled in the contest, limited to just eight points on 3-of-12 field-goal shooting. It was the first time in the conference that the reigning MVP winner failed to hit double figures.

The scores:


San Miguel 78 Young 14, Racela 14, Calaguio 13, Tenorio 9, Gonzales 9, Ildefonso 8, Wilson 5, Adducul 2, Cablay 2, Pena 2, Adriano 0.


Purefoods 75 Simon 20, Chandler 15, Artadi 8, Yap J. 8, Yap R. 8, Evangelista 98, Yee 7, Salvador 1, Limpot 0, Castillo 0.


Quarterscores: 18-19, 43-34, 66-60, 78-75
 
Junthy fined P65,000, suspended for 2 games
The Philippine Star 05/08/2007

Red Bull rugged forward Junthy Valenzuela was slapped a two-game suspension plus a fine of P65,000 for his misconduct in their game against Talk n Text Friday.

Valenzuela will serve his suspension in their games against Sta. Lucia Realty at the Araneta Coliseum tomorrow and against San Miguel Beer Saturday in Cebu.

The Cebuano player actually got away with a lighter sanction as PBA officials took into consideration, among others, his remorseful conduct in his appearance in the league office yesterday.

He admitted committing infractions in hitting Mark Cardona as he was down on the floor, taking a fighting stance shortly after, crossing the court to approach the technical group and displaying belligerent actions toward a fan.

"It helped that he came and told the commissioner that he just lost his cool but he has long been trying to watch his temper. We can see his effort, we know that Junthy has been mending his ways," said PBA technical chief Perry Martinez.

Cardona and Felix Belano were also fined P5,000 each for flagrant fouls they committed in the contest.

Valenzuela lost his cool as he was tackled by Cardona in midair.
 
AIR21 BUCKS SLOW START, OUTWITS COKE IN ENDGAME
David, Santos star for Exoress in close-shave win that saw them fell behind by as much as 21-34 early in the second quarter, the Express made their way back with tough defense, lots of hustle and strong offensive rebounding.

Coca-Cola shot 42 percent compared to the Air21s 37% shooting clip. But the Tigers inability to dominate the offensive board as well as their 22 turnovers hurt them in the end.

The Express and the Tigers were just about even in the rebounding department (51-50, respectively) but Air21s 23 offensive boards -- 11 more than Coke -- earned them 21 second chance points. The Express also netted 20 points from the Tigers 22 errors.

The loss was the Tigers eighth in 13 games and it certainly hurt their bid for an outright quarterfinal spot.

Air21 rallied in the second quarter through David and Canaleta who led a 25-9 run that shoved the Express to a 48-43 lead at halftime.

Coke import Jeff Varem scored 24 points and grabbed a season-high 24 rebounds for the second straight game and Arigo poured 11 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter but both players got little support from their teammates save for Ali Peek who finished with a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds.

The Express took the games biggest lead at 61-47 on a jumper by David with 7:49 left in the third quarter.

But Air21 seemed to have relaxed a bit, allowing the Tigers to claw back and make the game interesting.

The scores:

Air21 86 David 20, Daniels 13, Canaleta 13, Dimaunahan 10, Telan 9, Arboleda 9, Santos 7, Torion 3, Se 2.

Coca-Cola 85 Varem 24, Arigo 23, Peek 16, Tolomia 9, Yeo 4, Pacana 3, Avenido 3, Antonio 3, Calimag 0, Duremdes 0.
Quarterscores: 19-28, 48-43, 72-66, 86-85
 
STA. LUCIA BREAKS OUT OF SKID, NIPS PUREFOODS
Jamaal Williams heroics snap Realtors 5-game slump
Friday, 11 May 2007

ANTIPOLO With the game on the line, Jamaal Williams made things happen in the closing seconds as the Sta. Lucia Realtors got past the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants, 93-92, in a tension-filled endgame Friday night at the Ynares Center here.

The Sta. Lucia import grabbed a crucial offensive rebound after Marlou Aquino missed from eight feet and went on to score the go-ahead, 93-92, with 37 seconds remaining.

"I'm so relieved," offered Sta. Lucia coach Boyet Fernandez when asked how he felt.

Friday night's victory was certainly refreshing for a team that has endured five consecutive defeats and fighting hard to make the playoffs in the 2007 Talk N Text PBA Fiesta Conference.

"Even when the losses kept piling up I never lost my confidence in my players. But tonight I felt they played as a team," Fernandez said.

Jamaal Williams tallied 32 points on 12-of-22 shooting and grabbed 15 rebounds to show the way for the Realtors, who moved up to 4-9. Nelbert Omolon added 26 points and rookie Kelly Williams had 18 while taking 13 of his 19 attempts from the 3-point range.

It was a frustrating loss for the Giants, who appeared to have the game under control when James Yap knocked in a 3-pointer for an 88-81 lead with 3:34 to go.

But poor decision making, poor shot selection and bad plays down the stretch cost them the game.

Marquin Chandler turned in 40 points but couldn't make the big plays when they needed it. Worse, James Yap (20 points) also disappeared in the crucial stretch.

After taking the opening quarter by 27-24, the Realtors stretched the lead to 12 midway in the second quarter as Omolon, Kelly Williams and Norman Gonzales each hit a three during a 15-6 run.

But the Giants, who came into the game hoping to snap a two-game slump, charged back behind Chandler and Rey Evangelista, who scored nine of his 11 points in the second quarter, as they returned to their locker room with a 52-51 lead at halftime.

The scores:

Sta. Lucia 93 Williams 32, Omolon 26, Williams K. 18, Aquino 6, Miranda 4, Gonzales 3, Bughao 2, catli 2, Isip 0, Mendoza 0.

Purefoods 92 Chandler 40, Yap, J. 20, Evangelista 11, Simon 7, Castillo 5, Yee 4, yap 2, Camaso 2, Salvador 1, Artadi 0.

Quarters: 27-24, 51-52, 65-73, 93-92
 
MILLER SHINES AS ALASKA TOPPLES GINEBRA
Ellis chips in triple double to halt Kings run but hit their strides in the second quarter, coming within two, 47-49, at halftime.

Sunday Salvacion went 3-of-4 from beyond the arc to highlight the Kings' torrid attack that had them erasing a 18-30 deficit at the end of the opening period.

The scores:

Alaska 97 Miller 22, Ellis 14, Ferriols 13, Cariaso 13, Belasco 11, Laure 9, Thoss 7,Hugnatan 4, Singson 4, Bajar 0.


Ginebra 91 Nealy 25, Salvacion 25, Tubid 11, Seigle 9, Macapagal 8, Chia 6, Mamaril 3, Santos 3, Echavez 1, Holper 0.


Quarterscores: 30-18, 49-47, 77-75, 97-91
 
REALTORS RIP DRAGONS IN DOUBLE OT, WIN BACK-TO-BACK FOR 1ST TIME
2 Williams, Omolon & Gonzales simply too much for Welcoat
2007-05-16_JAMAAL.jpg
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ed the game with urgency and appeared to have controlled the game for three quarters but couldn't deliver the finishing kick.



By absorbing their 11th defeat in 14 games, the Dragons fell deeper down the cellar and dimmed its hopes of advancing to the wildcard phase.



Wayland White scored 33 points and his layup with 2:11 left in the first overtime gave Welcoat a 97-93 lead.



But the Dragons didn't hit a field goal the rest of the way while Denok Miranda sank two free throws and Jamaal Williams scored in the lane with 10.2 seconds remaining to force the second overtime.



Compton added 18 points and Jay-R Reyes and Rob Wainright had 12 apiece for the Dragons, who shot 50 percent in the third quarter but led by just 71-69 at the end of the period, no thanks to their 11 turnovers in that stretch.

The scores:

Sta. Lucia 112 Williams J. 37, Omolon 26, Gonzales 19, Williams K. 8, Miranda 8, Isip 4, Bughao 3, Aquino 3, Catli 2, Espino 2, Ramos 0, Mendoza 0.

Welcoat 104 White 33, Compton 18, Reyes 12, Wainwright 12, Lopez 11, Sta. Maria 9, Cabatu 5, Ibanes 4, Baguion 0, Lao 0.

Quarterscores: 25-27, 48-50, 69-71, 89-89, 97-97, 112-104.
 
TALK N TEXT HOLDS OFF LATE AIR21 SURGE FOR SCARY WIN
Outright semis slot now within Phone Pals reach
Thursday, 17 May 2007

All of a sudden, Talk N Text is back in the hunt for an outright semifinals seat.

The Pals charged back into contention for the Top Two in the 2007 Talk N Text PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round as they nailed a fifth win in their last six games with a 116-115 decision over the Air21 Express Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

Yancy de Ocampo banged away back-to-back triples then Donbel Belano completed a three-point play at endgame as the Pals held off the Express late surge, regaining their winning ways after a shocking loss to the Welcoat Dragons the last time out.

Also avenging its defeat to Air21 in their previous tiff, Talk N Text improved its win-loss record to 8-6, just a game behind joint second placers Air21, Red Bull and Alaska at 9-5 and two games adrift the pacesetting Barangay Ginebra squad.

"We had only ourselves to blame we took Welcoat for granted. Tabla na sana kami for second place with our win tonight," said Talk N Text coach Derrick Pumaren.

"But I have to give it to the boys. They did a tremendous job to hold off Air21. With what happened, were right there among the leaders in the race for the two outright semis seats," Pumaren added.

Pumaren, however, insisted their immediate goal is to secure an automatic slot in the quarterfinals.

Pumaren and his troops play another big game versus Barangay Ginebra in a road game in Butuan City Saturday.

The Pals squandered a pair of 13-point leads early in the fourth but regrouped at endgame to foil the Express bid to tie the Kings in the lead.

The Express had surged ahead at 106-102 when De Ocampo rattled in back-to-back treys to push the Pals back in the lead at 108-106.

Air21 drew even for the last time at 108-all on two free throws by Gary David before Belano struck with a three-point play off Mark Telan as Talk N Text surged
ahead for good at 111-108 with time down to 111-108.

The Pals stretched their lead to seven but desperation three-pointers by Aries Dimaunahan and Wynne Arboleda narrowed the gap to what it was in the end.

De Ocampo went 3-of-5 from beyond the arc and finished with 25 points and 14 rebounds while Belano wound up with 11 points, seven assists, four rebounds and two steals.

Mark Cardona paced the Pals with 26 points although he was limited to six in the payoff period.

The Pals ran in a maze of errors, allowing the Express to dart ahead at 106-102 on a 24-7 attack.

"Were lucky to salvage the game because Air21 is a team which really capitalize on the other teams turnovers. They were able to force us to commit numerous errors in the fourth quarter," said Pumaren.

The Express highlighted their attack with 11 unanswered points from Shawn Daniels, David and Arboleda.

David went on to lead all scorers with 29 points with Daniels adding 22 and Arboleda 17.

The scores:

Talk N Text 116 Cardona 26, De Ocampo 25, Sullinger 21, Carey 16, Belano 11, Washington 10, Allado 4, Billones 3, Pablo 0.

Air21 115 David 29, Daniels 22, Arboleda 17, Telan 16, Canaleta 9, Torion 7, Santos 6, Dimaunahan 5, Se 4, Andaya 0.

Quarterscores: 24-19, 51-41, 80-73, 116-115.
 
STREAKING BEERMEN TAME TIGERS
Career game from Wilson leads SMB to 6th straight wined the conference with six straight losses, improved their win-loss record to 7-7, just a game behind the fifth-running Talk N Text Phone Pals at 8-6.

Mathematically, the Beermen are back in the fight for the two outright semifinal slots with the league-leading Barangay Ginebra within sight at 10-4 and joint second-placers Air21 Express, Red Bull Barakos and Alaska Aces who all at 9-5.

The Tigers virtually bombed out of the fight for the Magic Five as they suffered a ninth loss against six wins.

Coca-Cola, which was led by the 18 points of John Arigo, yielded the game to the Beermen as they went scoreless in a five-minute stretch midway through the last quarter, allowing coach Siot Tanquingcen and his troops to pull away at 76-64.

Young, Wilson, Pena and Olsen Racela connived in a 15-2 run that had the Beermen racing away at 80-66 with time down to 1:52.

Before that, the two teams figured in a tight seesaw battle, ending up tied at 34 at the half and at 56-all after the first three quarters.

But the Beermen, who matched the conferences longest winning streak registered previously by Barangay Ginebra, wont be denied of the win with the team seemingly saving their best for last.

Wilson stood out for the Beermen as he fired a career-high 16 points and hauled down 13 rebounds which matched his career-high.

Young also finished with a double-double effort with 13 points and 13 rebounds which came with eight assists and so did Pena with 16 points and 13 rebounds.

Wilson had a three-point play off a foul by Ali Peek and a twinner from close range in their decisive attack from a slim 65-64 edge.

San Miguel Beer improved to 7-4 since Tanquingcen took over from interim coach Biboy Ravanes midway through the conference.

SMB is also now 6-1 since Young planed in to replace Paul McMillan.

Coca-Cola import Jeff Varem was held to his lowest output in the conference, finishing with only eight points on an anemic 3-for-15 shooting from the field. He was also forced into a game-high six turnovers by the conferences top defensive team.

The Tigers, who were held to their lowest output in the conference, shot just 32% from the floor, making only 26 of their 82 attempts.

Incidentally, Coca-Cola clobbered the Beermen, 82-64,in their previous tiff in Tubod, Lanao del Norte last March 17 while the Tigers were still reinforced by Anthony Johnson and San Miguel Beer still had McMillan.

The scores:

San Miguel Beer 84 Wilson 16, Pena 16, Young 13, Ildefonso 13, Tenorio 12, Racela 6, Calaguio 5, Adducul 2, Cablay 1, Gonzales 0.

Coca-Cola 71 Arigo 18, Antonio 14, Peek 12, Varem 8, Cabagnot 6, Calimag 6, Yeo 3, Tolomia 3, Avenido 1, Pacana 0, Misolas 0, Duremdes 0.

Quarterscores: 24-16, 34-34, 56-56, 84-71
 
COKE TIGERS GET PAYBACK AGAINST STA. LUCIA
Cabagnot, Captain Marbel fly high against former team
2007-05-20_DUREMDES_3738.jpg


Kenneth Duremdes and Alex Cabagnot delivered standout performances against their former team as the Coca-Cola Tigers dealt the Sta. Lucia Realtors a 114-95 beating Sunday night in the Talk N Text-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.


Duremdes, the 1998 MVP, came off the bench to score 23 points while Cabagnot had 19 and a conference-best 13 assists as the Tigers split their two games against the Realtors and improved to a 7-9 (win-loss) record.



"The outcome may not help us get into the top five (in the standings) but what we learned from playing tonight will help a lot come playoff time,' said Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis. "And tonight we learned how to play together and as a team. If we can play continuously that way in the playoffs we might have a chance."



The Tigers took control early with their running game and led by 16 points midway in the second quarter that saw Duremdes pouring in 11 of his points in that stretch which included a 3-of-6 shooting from the 3-point range.



But when the Realtors rallied and threatened to seize the momentum, Cabagnot came to the rescue by drilling a huge trey that enabled the Tigers to close the third quarter with an 84-81 lead which they never relinquished.



"Alex (Cabagnot) will be filling a huge leadership vacuum in this organization. He has shown a lot of improvement in terms of leadership and I guess his development will be key for us in the playoffs," Favis said.



The Tigers, who lost their first meeting against Sta. Lucia 103-100 last April 11, also a got a big lift from William Antonio, who turned in 19 points including 5-of-9 shooting from the 3-point range. As a team, Coca-Cola went 14-of-27 from long range compared to Sta. Lucia's 3-of-18.



The Realtors, who fell to 5-10, appeared to have gained strong momentum in the third when they rallied from a 61-72 deficit and tied the count at 81-all on a basket by rookie Kelly Williams with 47 seconds left in the quarter.



But they missed their first four shots in the fourth and the Tigers erected a 10-point lead that stood until the end.



Jamaal Williams tallied 36 points and Kelly Williams had 18 for the Realtors, who shot just 41 percent from the field.

The scores:

Coca-Cola 114 Duremdes 23, Varem 22, Cabagnot 19, Antonio 17, Peek 14, Calimag 7, Tolomia 6, Sotto 2, Avenido 2, Arigo 2, Pacana 0.

Sta. Lucia 95 Williams J. 36, Williams K. 18, Omolon 17, Mendoza 7, Gonzales 5, Isip 4, Miranda 4, Aquino 4, Bughao 0, Catli 0.

Quarterscores: 28-26, 63-57, 84-81, 114-95
 
BACK-TO-BACK 3S BY CARDONA LIFT TNT TO ROAD WIN OVER PF
Phone Pals stay alive for Top 2 slot; Giants fail to formalize wildcard spot
Thursday, 24 May 2007

CAVITE CITY. Talk `N Text continued to make things interesting in the wide open race for the two outright semifinals berth in the Talk N Text-PBA Fiesta Conference after drubbing Purefoods Thursday night, 90-82, in a road game at the San Sebastian College gym here.

Mac-Mac Cardona led the way for the streaking Phone Pals with 23 points and nine rebounds, inclusive of two consecutive back-breaking three-pointers in the final two minutes that took the energy out of the fighting Giants.

Cardonas back-to-back treys, coming within a minutes span, allowed the Phone Pals to turn a slim three-point lead into a safe 84-75 margin with 72 seconds left in the erstwhile tightly-contested ballgame.

The former De La Salle stalwart capped another stellar performance by finishing 4-of-9 from three-point range, three of which came in the pivotal fourth.

Talk `N Text has now won three in a row and seven of its last eight games to raise its record to 10-6 overall, moving just half a game behind Barangay Ginebra (10-5) and a full game away from league-leaders Red Bull (11-5) and Alaska (11-5) in the heated race for the two automatic slots in the Final Four.

The Phone Pals, whose bench outscored their Purefoods counterparts 27-0, have the Sta. Lucia Realtors and the San Miguel Beermen for their final two assignments on the coming next two Sundays and they would need to win both to fortify their bid to enter the semis outright for the first time since the 2005 Fiesta Conference.

Import JJ Sullinger added 22 points for Talk `N Text, including an emphatic two-handed slam off a feed by Yancy de Ocampo that tied the game for the last time at 69 midway in the fourth period.

Sullinger followed that one up with an undergoal stab, before Cardona buried the first of his three fourth-quarter treys as the Phone Pals move ahead to stay, 74-69, with 5:20 left.

But the Giants managed to keep the game close, scoring four straight free throws courtesy of Peter Jun Simon and James Yap, the last one on a technical foul called on Talk `N Text coach Derick Pumaren with 2:43 to go that made it 75-78.

Cardona then stepped up for the Phone Pals, silencing the Giants by drilling in those two killer three-pointers.

Jay Washington also came up big for the Phone Pals with 17 markers while Harvey Carey had nine.

Purefoods, which finished runner-up to Red Bull in this very same conference last season, fell to 5-12 overall as it lost for the second game in a row and fifth time in its last six games, failing to formalize its place in the wildcard phase of the playoffs.

The Giants are in a 3-way race with Sta. Lucia and Welcoat for the last two slots in the wildcard first round of the playoffs.

Only one team will go on an early vacation after the end of the double round-robin eliminations on June 3.

Import Marquin Chandler led the losing cause for Purefoods with 35 points.

The game was tied at 36 after two quarters as game officials nullified Sullingers putback that went in shortly after the halftime buzzer.

Both teams shot poorly from the floor, with the Phone Pals struggling for a 29 percent shooting against the 2-3 zone of the Giants.

But eight Purefoods turnovers in the second period allowed Talk `N Text to take charge and erase an early nine-point deficit.

A breakaway slam by Washington put the Phone Pals on top, 24-22, before they stretched the lead to 31-24 on a three-pointer by Sullinger and two free throws by Cardona to cap a 9-2 run.

With the game slipping away, Simon and Chandler rallied the Giants back, instigating a 12-5 counter attack to close the first half.

The scores:

Talk `N Text 90 Cardona 23, Sullinger 22, Washington 17, Carey 9, Allado 6, De Ocampo 5, Belano 4, Billones 2, Fran 2.

Purefoods 82 Chandler 35, J. Yap 18, R. Yap 15, Simon 10, Salvador 4, Artadi 0, Evangelista 0, Yee 0, Castillo 0.

Quarterscores: 17-20, 36-36, 63-64, 90-82.
 
PHONE PALS REPEAT OVER REALTORS FOR 2ND 4-GAME WIN STREAK
Sullinger, Cardona virtually unstoppable in the third period
2007-05-27_sullinger2.jpg
ers Jamaal Williams, Kelly Williams, Dennis Espino, Nelbert Omolon and Paolo Mendoza all finished in double figures but neither of them made an impact when the team needed a run in the stretch.



As a result, Sta. Lucia picked up its third consecutive loss and 12th in 17 games keeping their spot in the wildcard uncertain.



The first half was close with the two teams going through eight deadlocks and nine lead changes.



TNT, which also defeated Sta. Lucia 99-84 in their first meeting last April 18, closed the first half holding a 48-46 lead. But the Realtors rallied at the start of the third quarter behind Espino and Mendoza, who finished with 17 and 10 points, respectively.



Sta. Lucia outscored the Phone Pals, 28-20, in the first eight minutes of the third and took a 74-68 lead on a basket by Mendoza.



But the Realtors committed two costly turnovers after that and the Phone Pals capitalized on it with Sullinger and Cardona sparking that decisive 18-6 run.

The scores:

Talk N Text 114 Sullinger 35, Cardona 18, Allado 17, Carey 10, Washington 9, Belano 9, Billones 8, de Ocampo 8, Pablo 0.

Sta. Lucia 102 William J. 19, Williams K. 17, Espino 17, Omolon 13, Mendoza 10, Aquino 9, Isip 6, Miranda 6, Catli 3, Gonzales 2.
Quarterscores: 22-21, 48-46, 86-80, 114-102.
 
^ Yes, for Adducul.

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sapatos yan, hindi trophy
[size=+1](Team [/size][size=+1]Back[/size] [size=+1]Spasms)[/size]

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^OO ntrade si villanueva kay adducul..nbasa ko knina sa philstar.com....pnalo yata ang san miguel doon sa alam ko mas bata si enrico at pwede nya png iimprove laro nya...
 
^air jordan 5 looks funky while being used by kelly williams...that fellow reminds me of rob parker's freakish athletic ability...
 
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