Salvacion and Tubid are the Stat Performers Against Singapore Slingers

From Singapore Slingers Website

The Singapore Slingers ended the Singapore Challenge Series on a high with a dominant 100-68 victory against Ginebra Barangay at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Saturday.

Armien Kirkland was the top scorer of the game with 23 points and Sunday Salvacion led the visitors with 17 points.

Playing their much anticipated season finale in front of more than 4,000 enthusiastic fans, the Slingers started the ball rolling for a dazzling display of basketball action with a powerful alleyoop dunk by star forward Eric Sandrin off a timely assist from Al Vergara on the fast break to open the scoring for the home team.

This paved the way for coast to coast action that thrilled the fans as the teams traded the lead for the next three minutes.

Rebounding, however, proved to be the Achilles heel of Ginebra Barangay as they were out-hustled on the boards by the home team, grabbing only 5 rebounds while the Slingers crashed 11 boards.

Sandrin led the Slingers with 5 rebounds in the quarter, while sharp shooter Armien Kirkland found his groove downtown, leading the team with a perfect 4-for-4 from the field which yielded 9 points as the Slingers went into the break leading 26-21.

The visitors kept the game close in the second quarter, as guard Sunday Salvacion led his team with 7 points in the quarter. Local player Hong Wei Jian gave the Slingers a double-digit lead (35-25) for the first time in the game with a timely triple and the visitors proved unable to close the gap, ending the quarter down 38-45.

The turning point of the game emerged in a thrilling third quarter that saw key momentum swings between the two teams.

Encouraged by the thunderous crowd, Ginebra Barangay mounted a determined comeback after halftime as Ronald Tubid ignited his team with two triples to inch his team within 2 points of the Slingers at 49-51.

However, the Slingers kept their composure to keep the visitors at bay and erupted on a 9-0 run with a Sandrin triple and three consecutive fast breaks in the last two minutes of the quarter to gain an 18-point lead (69-51) before the start of the final quarter.

The Slingers’ team effort eventually proved too strong for the visitors, as five players (Armein Kirkland, Eric Sandrin, John Fitzgerald, Al Vergara, Hong Wei Jian) chipped in with double-digits each to lead the team to a 100-68 victory. Local player Hong Wei Jian, who had his strongest performance of the season with 11 points, added the icing on the cake for the Slingers with a spectacular dunk on a fast break to end the game on a sweet 100-point note for the home team.

Slingers coach Frank Arsego was extremely proud of his team’s effort. He said: “We played a tremendous game and the team really kept its composure well to win tonight.”

Praising Weijian’s effort, he added: “Weijian is a very hardworking chap that has a lot of potential. You have just seen a fraction of what he’s capable of today. If he continues training hard, I’m sure he can be someone special for Singapore one day.”

A visibly happy Weijian said: “I feel that I still have room for improvement but I’m really happy to be given the opportunity today and I I’m glad to have repaid the coach’s faith in me.”

Star Performers:

Singapore Slingers:
1. Armein Kirkland (23 pts, 5 RBs)
2. Eric Sandrin (20 pts, 11 RBs)

Singapore Slingers: Ginebra Barangay:
1. Sunday Salvacion (17 pts, 4 RBs)
2. Ronald Tubid (12 pts, 6 RBs)

Singapore Slingers vs Barangay Ginebra Kings

From Singapore Slingers - Newsletter #45

Singapore, 14 January 2009 - The Singapore Slingers will be replacing last Sunday's cancelled match against India's Sathbayama All Stars with a dream match against the Philippine's most popular team - Barangay Ginebra - this Saturday at the Singapore Indoor Stadium at 7.30pm.

This will be the last game of the Singapore Challenge Series and the Slingers will be looking for their 10th win in 11th games of the Singapore Challenge Series.

"It is a critical decision we had to make as both teams will be without key players", said Paul Monozca, Chairman of the Monozca Foundation - the key patron of the Philippine teams playing in Singapore. "But we feel it's a great way to end the 'Singapore Challenge Series' with a dream match. The fans will be happy to know there will be a re-match when the teams complete themselves in a few months. But for now, patience to hold this game has run out".

"We welcome the decision to have this dream match earlier" said Bob Turner, Managing Director of Basketball Enterprises and owner of the Slingers. "This match is all about saying thanks to all the supporters of the 'Challenge Series' this year and to tell everyone to look forward to next season when the official regional pro league opens. Ticket prices remain the same at $6 to $16 and are available at all Sistic outlets".

Although this will be a tough game, the Slingers will be playing without Shane McDonald and possibly Darren Ng while Ginebra is playing without JJ Helterbrand who is training with the national team and Eric Menk, who is in the United States.

Mark Caguioa is also not playing and Reavis and Valenzuela are side lined due to injury.

However, fans can look forward to a match-up between the bad boys Eric Sandrin and Alex Crisano and point guards Paul Artadi and Al Vergara. Veteran star point guard Jhonny Abbarientos will also be suiting up for the Singapore game. Fans will also be treated to meet veterans Jong Uichico and Allan Caidic who are both part of the coaching staff of Ginebra.

"Ginebra is the Apple Computer of the Philippines. It is not the strongest team, but the most popular", said Noel Saavedra of the Monozca Foundation. "It is our version of the Kallang Roar"

The match will be played at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 at 7:30pm.

The Kings Bid Goodbye to the All Filipino Cup Conference

It was a do or die Sunday between the Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) and the San Miguel Beermen (SMB). Whoever wins the ballgame will advance to the Semis and battle with the Talk N' Text Tropang Texters (TNT).

All game long, BGK commands the ballgame. And it was all because of the beyond the arc shots. I then began to admire BGK more, with a depleted line up, it was really all the heart of a champion thay they are using to fight tonight's ballgame. JayJay Helterbrand, who is quoted as 'due for explosion' by Quinito Henson, really exploded, allowing the BGK to have a 21-point lead against the star-studded SMB.

It was not only Helterbrand's 3 points shots, Paul Artadi, JunJun Cabatu, and Sunday Salvacion also had their 3 pointers that made all things happen for the Kings. And while they had their 3 points shots, Chris Pacana, Billy Mamaril, and Junthy Valenzuela fearlessly drives their way to the basket to contribute.

All the while, it was all BGK. But DonDon Hontiveros become unstoppable from the 3 point arc as well. He hit back to back 3s together with Lordy Tugade and Mic Pennisi. They where able to catch up and trim the lead down to only 3 points at the end of the 3rd Quarter.

BGK and SMB had shown a great series of the Quarter Finals. Everybody's on their feet in the ending minutes of the pay off period. Less than a minute left, SMB leads by only 4 points. BGK still has the chance to regain the lead, if not, at least extend the regulation period. But, I really don't understand why BGK DO NOT defend the last play of the SMB, allowing SMB to have a 6-point lead with only 24 seconds remaining. My sister uttered, if it was in NBA, anything could still happen. And I uttered, if it was Purefoods TJ Giants (PF), an overtime will push through, as what they did against TNT last October 31, 2008.

Salvacion hit a 3 point to cut the lead down to 3. But, the seconds are too much in favor of SMB. It was a sorry loss for the Kings. When I thought they almost made it. But nonetheless, I still can proudly say, thay their hearts are bigger than SMB. And Ronald Tubid's heart is a lot bigger than Hontiveros'.

The Kings bid goodbye to the All Filipino Cup Conference (AFC). And so, I bid goodbye to PBA for now. I have no more reason to watch PBA, no PF, no BGK. See you next conference!


The scores:


San Miguel 98 -- Hontiveros 34, Custodio 13, Tugade 11, Seigle 9, Washington 8, Villanueva 7, Pennisi 5, Pena 4, Pingris 3, Baguion 2, racela 2, Gonzales 0.

Ginebra 93 -- Helterbrand 30, Salvacion 17, Menk 9, Mamaril 8, Tubid 7, Pacana 6, Artadi 6, Wilson 6, Valenzuela 4, Escalona 0, Cabatu 0.

Quarterscores: 14-22, 36-49, 67-70, 98-93

Barangay Ginebra Kings Wants Game 3

Again, I was not able to watch the Quarter Finals Game between the Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) and the San Miguel Beermen (SMB). Thus, I have no other recourse but to ask my friends to keep me posted. Nonetheless, I have the feeling that BGK will grab tonight's ballgame.

I felt kinda uncomfortable knowing that SMB leads in the first few minutes of the game. It was even more disappointing knowing the Chris Pacana had committed 3 personal fouls with so many time remaining in the 2nd Quarter. SMB continues to take charge of the driver's seat until Ronald Tubid hit a shot from downtown, making it at 30 all with 8minutes remaining in the 1st half. This 3 pointer had been succeeded by many other, letting BGK grab the lead at 37-36 with 5minutes remaining at the half. Sheer heart, that is, BGK ended the first half at 48-41.

At the 3rd Quarter, BGK continues to shine with their 3 pointers as Paul Artadi hits his own version of the arc, making the score at 54-41. It was as well complemented by a back to back steal by JayJay Helterbrand. Almost everyone contributed. Willie Wilson and Billy Mamaril made a field goal each to make it 58-41 in their favor. BGK's lead ballooned to 14 big points (68-52) forcing Coach Siot Tanquincen to commit a technical foul. BGK ended the 3rd Quarter with a commanding lead of 7 points (70-63).

But SMB showed BGK how important a deeper bench in this kind of series. They tied the ballgame at 70 all with less than 10minutes remaining in the pay off period. It has been a seesaw battle between the 2 sister companies. SMB, once again, grab the lead (85-82) in the last 2 minutes mark of the quarter. But, as what Tubid had said in their 2nd game of the eliminations, their hearts are much bigger, regaining the lead 90-88 with only 6.6 seconds remaining. It is indeed a pulsating ballgame. At the end, it was Tubid's heart that prevailed. BGK won 91-88. They forced SMB to play game 3 for a do or die game Sunday.

The scores:

Barangay Ginebra 91 - Tubid 19, Helterbrand 15, Menk 15, Salvacion 11, Valenzuela 9, Mamaril 8, Artadi 6, Wilson 5, Cabatu 3, Escalona 0, Pacana 0, Crisano 0.

San Miguel Beer 88 - Hontiveros 35, Seigle 12, Pena 10, Custodio 9, Tugade 9, Pingris 4, Washington 3, Gonzales 3, Racela 2, Pennisi 1.

Quarterscores: 22-26, 48-41, 70-63, 91-88.

It Could Have Been For The Kings

I kinda miss PBA. I got frustrated last time when the Purefoods TJ Giants (PF) were eliminated in their wildcard game against the Air21 Express. I got a little more disappointed that time since Kerby 'The Kid' Raymundo was only able to gain most of his scores only from the free throw line. Anyway, it was the first game of the Quarter Finals Series between the Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK), my favorite team, and the San Miguel Beermen (SMB).

I was not able to watch the game. Good that I have friends who willingly update me on the happenings as the game goes by. I was kinda sad that time when SMB lead ballooned to 10 big points at the end of the first half (42-32). To my mind, SMB is really an all-star cast. And there's BonBon Custodio (my bet for the Rookie of the Year, ha ha) who really plays so well. But, I still wanted to see BGK winning the game.

I was delighted when BGK come back because of their 3-pt shots. And it was more fascinating since one of the shots from the parking lot came from my favorite player, Chris Pacana. I really hoped that he would be given more playing time by Coach Jong Uichico.

It was a tight ball game in the ending minutes. While still on my way home, I hoped that I could still catch the game and see Pacana throwing the winning shot. Yes, I was able to catch the game. It was about 47 (Mark Caguioa? Where are you?) seconds left, 78-77 in favor of SMB, BGK's ball. Well, as expected, Pacana is no where to found in the court. Pacana is used by Coach Uichico more on the defensive stop rather on offense. Anyway, what matter here now is to have a basket. But it was heartbreaking when Ronald Tubid failed to chip in his 3 point basket. Nonetheless, he was hailed as the game's 3-point King. Now, it was SMB's ball. They just melted the clock, and was not able to gain a basket. Only 4 seconds left, BGK had another chance of making a win from this one. But, JayJay Helterbrand's 3-point attempt do not even touch the rim. Well, it was a hard shot. He was not given any screen that time. He simply fished for a fould then against Custodio, but the referees where too lazy to call one. (It makes me miss PF, and all their buzzer beaters.)

Sorry loss for BGK. The game could have been for the them. But, it was not. Well, the series is a Best of 3, they will surely come back next game. It would be a do or die for them. And I'm sure, they'll do it.

The scores:

San Miguel 78 - Tugade 15, Hontiveros 14, Racela 11, Custodio 10, Seigle 10, Pingris 6, Pena 6, Washington 4, Pennisi 2, Calaguio 0.

Ginebra 77 - Mamaril 22, Tubid 14, Valenzuela 9, Helterbrand 8, Artadi 7, Salvacion 6, Menk 4, Pacana 3, Wilson 2, Crisano 2, Escalona 0, Cabatu 0.

Quarterscores: 21-16, 42-32, 61-54, 78-77.

Barangay Ginebra Kings vs Air21 Express Highlights

December 05, 2008
Air21 vs. Ginebra (102 - 84)
Araneta Coliseum

Junthy Valenzuela vs KG Canaleta



Billy Mamaril Slam against Arwind Santos (no foul huh?)

Alex Crisano Slam (technical? c'mon, Kelly Wiliams, Gabe Norwood, and Arwind Santos slams that way as well)

Raffy Reavis Blocked Arwind Santos (foul?!)

Barangay Ginebra Kings Nailed Down Red Bull Barakos

Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) will still be missing JayJay Helterbrand's service in tonight's ball game. But, it never really matter at all now. BGK, just like last conference, always have someone from their roster to step-up and save the team. In the last two (2) games, it was Sunday Salvacion. And sometimes, missing a key player had been an advantage. The opponent would be puzzled on whom they should defend well. They won't readily determine who will be the go-to guy of the BGK. On the other hand, Mike Holper traded to RB for 2011 draft pick is something to be sad about.

But, it is not Sunday everyday. In the 1st Quarter, Salvacion had 1/5 in the 3 point arc. And another but -- Junthy Valenzuela, although still nursing his left knee, contributed a couple of points with his amazing moves -- moves he mastered when he was still with Red Bull Barakos (RB). I just love the way he makes that basket against three (3) RB defenders. Also, there's the intelligent player, Willie Wilson, as what the commentator had said.

I'm really admiring Macky Escalona. He had been inducing the same energy as what Paul Artadi is doing with his own speed and hassle play. He is a great outside shooter, but he, as well, is brave in driving through the basket over much taller defenders. But while Salvacion had been continually missing his 3 point shots, Leo Najorda of RB had been nailing his three 3-pointers. But fate's in BGK's side as they ended the 2nd Quarter 43-36 in their favor.

In the 3rd Quarter, BGK still held RB down as Ronald Tubid scored his 1st 3 point basket while Paul Artadi had his back to back basket as he drive towards the goal. After struggling with his 3 point shooting, Salvacion finally nailed, not just one, but two 3 point shots in this quarter. But Cyrus Baguio really has to be commended for his great defense. He blocked Escalona and Valenzuela in a row. He as well made Artadi turn the ball over. But it is not enough. BGK's lead grow up to 14 big points at the end of the Quarter.

Can't help but commend Escalona. He doesn't lose his confidence even he had been blocked twice this ball game. If he can't do it underneath the basket, might do it in the perimeter. And after being blocked, he had his steal, and his back to back perimeter shots in the pay off period. And I believe this has also been a pay off period for Tubid. Remember in their first encounter, Tubid had been ejected for being called for 2 flagrant fouls penalty 1 in the 1st half. He had nailed another 3 point shot in this quarter. Just when RB thought they would grab the lead with their 15-3 run, Eric Menk's basket, Valenzuela's 3 point shot, and Artadi's steals won't let it happen. BGK is holding on to an 8 point lead in the last 2 minutes of the final quarter when Tubid chipped in another 3 point shot, breaking RB's hopes to steal the win. Yes, Tubid had his sweet revenge, as he is the Best Player of the Game (BPG) with 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists nailing RB down of the team standings. On the other hand, would like to congratulate Holper for his career high in his new team.

The scores:

Barangay Ginebra 83 - Tubid 15, Salvacion 15, Valenzuela 12, Artadi 10, Menk 8, Escalona 6, Cabatu 5, Wilson 5, Crisano 4, Reavis 2, Mamaril 1.

Red Bull 76 - Baguio 16, Najorda 11, Holper 9, Hubalde 8, Rodriguez 7, Sharma 6, Cruz 5, Chan 4, Ybanez 3, Hrabak 3, Duncil 2, Espinas 2.

Quarterscores: 23-22, 43-36, 66-52, 83-76.

Sunday's Salvacion

Who would have thought Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) would win tonight? BGK is really missing Mark Caguioa (MC), but now, missing JayJay Helterbrand could be the worst nightmare. BGK might have survived last conference championship because it was only JayJay who cannot play. MC is still around then, and he was the one who got the crucial rebounds in Game 7 to enable BGK to grab the championship crown. Well, of course, not to mention all the other players who stepped up all conference long. But tonight, it was not only a furious-less ball game, it was a fast-less match as well. But, not really bad, Raffy Reavis is back and will play tonight.

In the 1st Quarter, Paul Artadi and Ronald Tubid, knowing that they are now the go-to guys of BGK, never disappoints the team and the fans as well. Paul, as always, got the speed to induce energy to the team. Although his easy layups do not gain him baskets, his speed and excellent ball handling is a key factor for keeping the team in shape. And how about Tubid? His fearless drive, jump shots, rebounds, defense, steals, uhm well, everything. He just makes BGK team cheer for joy. And even Coca-Cola Tigers was able to gain a 3-pt basket courtesy of Nick Belasco, of course, BGK will have its own version. And who would be the 3-pt shooter? No other than Sunday Salvacion. But wait, Tubid and Junthy Valenzuela also has their 3-pt versions. Even without the key players, BGK limited Coke to only 6 points in the 1st Quarter. Seems that they find it hard to play against BGK when JayJay's out. They just don't know who they should guard 'cause everyone's stepping up.

Speaking of stepping up, I won't definitely forget crediting Macky Escalona. His game had been really improving. It was a blessing for him when BGK's key players are missing. He had been given extra playing time, and he utilizes it to show everyone what he got. He, for me, is a great outside shooter. And while Coke is really finding it hard to gain a basket, BGK is finding it hard as well. But, BGK is a little luckier than Coke as Tubid once again chip in another 3-pt shot. But, it was too early for Coke to give up as Mark Macapagal and Ronjay Buenafe had their 3-pt shots to make their score 16 at the last 2-minute mark of the 2nd Quarter.

Come 3rd Quarter, the shooting of both teams are now finding their rhythm. Alex Cabagnot got his layup and 3 pt shot while Eric Menk had his perimeter shot. Coke was known to be coming back strong in the 3rd Quarter. And they live to it as Cabagnot got his 3 pt shot followed by the fastbreak points of RJ Lizada and Asi Taulava. But, Menk still got his shot. *wink wink* And just when Coke is cutting the lead of BGK to a single digit, Alex Crisano's fake, basket, and steal just extends the lead again to a double digit.

Ronjay opened the pay off period with a 3 pt shot cutting BGK's lead to only 6 pts. And his shot was followed by a lose ball foul committed by Tubid. *sigh* It was almost always like this. BGK will lead the ball game up to the 3rd quarter. Then in the 4th, you will always hold on to your feet that they could maintain their lead as the opponent is cutting the lead into a single possession. Good that the 3-pt shot by Enrile, cutting the lead to only 1, is answered by a 3-pt shot by, no other than, Salvacion. Not just one, but a back-to-back 3-pt shot. Who would have said that BGK could win tonight's ball game? In the last game of BGK against Coke, it was JayJay who scored the most needed points in the 4th Quarter. Hence, BGK is definitely missing his points. But, why should we miss it when Salvacion is not yet finished with his 3-pt shot. And Crisano still has to make his million dollar buzzer beater shot. And Willie Wilson still has to make his 3-pt play. *smug* However, Cabagnot still has the guts. He just made a back-to-back 3-pt shots, making BGK took care of only a 6 pt lead. But Sunday's here to save the day. Just in time when the last 2 minutes was announced, he once again had his 3-pt shot, earning his 21st point, only 1 pt shy of his career high last game against Sta. Lucia Realtors (SLR). He does not only have his back-to-back 3 pt shots, but he also has his back-to-back Player of the Game citation. The game is definitely a Sunday's Salvacion.

The scores:

Ginebra 84 – Tubid 22, Salvacion 21, Wilson 9, Crisano 8, Valenzuela 7, Menk 6, Mamaril 4, Escalona 4, Artadi 3, Cabatu 0, Reavis 0.

Coca-Cola 77 – Telan 18, Cabagnot 15, Taulava 13, Buenafe 10, Belasco 9, Enrile 6, Macapagal 3, Rizada 2, Catli 0, Arigo 0, Dimaunahan 0.

Quarterscores: 21-6, 34-20, 56-48, 84-77

No MC This AFC?

It is not that surprising when Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) started the All Filipino Cup (AFC) without Mark Caguioa (MC). His knees, both knees, are injured and over used last conference where they won the championship.

But despite playing without MC, and whole lot more of the key players, the BGK managed to have won 3 out of its 9 games in the first round of the eliminations. Someone always step up in every game. The seem to be problem is that they doesn't have a deep bench to sustain the gas that they need in the pay off period.

In their 5 straight loses, almost everyone was wishing for the comeback of MC, or Junthy Valenzuela. So that an offensive player may be seen on the court. In these 5 games, it was always JayJay Helterbrand and Paul Artadi who seem to be the go-to guy of BGK. But, it seem not to be enough. In their game against Alaska Aces, they have all the chance to win. Their chance was even extended for 5 more minutes in the overtime period. But during that OT, JayJay nor Paul earn a basket. Coach Jong Uichico could have tapped someone else to supply the necessary energy, or spark, to win the game. But he opted to make JayJay and Paul stay, the result, BGK had their sorry loss.

Come last game of the first round of the eliminations, everyone where still hoping for MC's comeback, until Anthony Suntay mentioned last game that MC won't be coming back this AFC. The moment I hear this, well, bad news, a lot of things pops into my mind. I bet a lot would definitely miss MC, and his moves. But, I think that would be the cost of using MC last finals series even with knees hurting.

Well, MC is MC, and NO ONE CAN EVER REPLACE MC. But now that the BGK management just don't want to rush things on MC nursing his knees, we just have to face the reality of facing AFC without MC, hu hu hu.

As for me, a lot of players can help contribute in offense, Coach Jong just have to give them the license to shoot. JunJun Cabatu proven his talent beyond the arc in Game 2. Macky Escalona shown he has the perimeter shooting everytime he would be given the playing time. Chris Pacana showed that he does not only have the good defense, he as well can drive through the basket no matter how big the defense was. Well, Willie Wilson is proving how he can handle the leather and wisely gain a goal from the field. The rest of the BGK roster already proved their worth in offense. So, I guess, that would be it. Never Say Die. Play with a heart. And have the license to shoot.

I know, MC would have wanted his fans to stay cheering for BGK even he won't be playing, for this conference at least. So, let's just continue supporting our ever beloved BGK. Who knows, MC might have his surprise, and promise us once again, the CHAMPIONSHIP CROWN. Ü

Barangay Ginebra Kings Breaks the Spell at Lucena City

November 08, 2008
Lucena City
Coke vs BGK (77-81)

It is the first out-of-town game of the Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) for this conference. Hoping that the 5 game losing skid would be broken this time around. What was happening to BGK is almost similar to what happened last conference. They started 0-5, then 2-7, then finally was able to make a Quarter Finals berth, and of course, winning the championship. It was because of the chemistry created by their import, Chris Alexander to the team. Now, I was believing that the 2-5 standing of BGK will be revived and game win streak will be up next. If before it was Alexander, now, it would be Mark 'The Spark' Caguioa, who until now is still nursing his injury in the states. I'm waiting for his return, and his promise -- I'm telling you, we'll go to the championship!

But, Caguioa isn't around yet. So, who could be the hero for tonight? Well, Coca Cola Tigers is a great team. I admire a couple of their players -- Alex Cabagnot and Ronjay Buenafe (my bet last season for Rookie of the Year (ROY)). Not to mention Asi Taulava, who I wished belong to the BGK roster. But, with the never say die spirit of BGK, we will win tonight's ball game.

What's new? 8-0 in favor of Coke. BGK almost always have the poor start. Seem to be living to the spirit of a hero. JayJay Helterbrand just can't get his rhythm in the 1st Quarter. He, I believe, has 0/3 in the 3 point arc. But guess who saved the day -- no other than CHRIS PACANA. Sweet revenge? Yeah, the sweetest, to his former team. Ü I was really laughing when Pacana and Willie Wilson are the ones who fought for the defensive rebound, causing Pacana to sit on the floor. Then in the succeeding play, in the offense, a missed shot was tipped in by Pacana. A whistle was blown by the officials. But, it was just an inadvertent whistle since the play was actually a foul of Wilson, again, against Pacana, ha ha. Letting me capture this sweet smile from Pacana.



Almost all of his basket came from offensive rebounds. He out powered the big men of Coke. Standing 6'1", he just became unstoppable in the minutes when he is badly needed. He was the one in-charge in defending John Arigo, one of Coke's star players.

Come 2nd Quarter, Helterbrand is beginning to feel his phase. Though missing his backcourt tandem, he felt that he should carry BGK in his broad shoulders. And he never failed the team. I remembered, in the game against Red Bull Barakos (RB), it was Pacana's night. In the game against Alaska Aces, it was Helterbrand's night. In the game against Rain or Shine, it was Eric Menk's night. If only they had their nights simultaneously, I believe, BGK would be leading the season's elimination round.

One of the most awaited match up then was between Taulava and Alex Crisano. They never disappointed the fans. Crisano had been a crowd favorite ever since he came in BGK line up. As what the commentators are telling, whether he turns the ball over or not, he just get the loudest cheer. Merely checking in for someone, he receives the loudest applause. Whenever they bumped under the basket, everyone's on their feet. But what's nice in their match up, was, they still manages to smile. And for them, it was, I think, for fun.

There it goes, 1st Half ended with 46-29 in favor of BGK. But, I still hold on to my feet. I remember last game of Coke against RB where they bounce back from a 2-digit deficit, having Cabagnot as the Best Player of the Game (BPG). And yes, the battle ain't over.

And just what I am so much afraid to happen, Coke manages to cut the lead to a single digit at the end of the 3rd Quarter 61-56, even without Arigo on the floor. Arigo earlier hurt his knees, making it swollen. I remember I am talking to television, saying, 'Cabagnot, not now', ha ha ha. I know he's good, but don't show how great you are during this game.

Coke had tied the ball game. They even had their lead in the pay off period. But with the hustle of Paul Artadi and Helterbrand they had had more touches of the leather. Menk as well gained the basket that is badly needed from him in the last 3 minutes of the quarter. You bet, Helterbrand had been the hero of the game. His nothing but net baskets in the dying seconds of 4th quarter breaks the heart of the Tigers. And finally, BGK breaks the spell (5 game losing skid) at Lucena City. And the BPG, no other than, Caguioa?



Just kidding! Helterbrand seemed to mimic Caguioa's looks. It was Pacana's 1st Quarter, Menk's 4th Quarter, and Helterbrand's night.

Scores:

Brgy. Ginebra 81 - Helterbrand 28, Tubid 8, Salvacion 8, Artadi 8, Pacana 8, Menk 6, Mamaril 4, Crisano 4, Escalona 4, Wilson 2, Cabatu 1, Holper 0.

Coca-Cola 77 - Belasco 22, Taulava 19, Cabagnot 13, Catli 9, Macapagal 6, Telan 4, Calimag 2, Arigo 0, Baguion 0, Dimaunahan 0.

Quarterscores: 21-18, 46-29, 61-56, 81-77

Barangay Ginebra Kings, 2-2 on October 22

I was so lucky that I have my BGK Jamships. With them, I can now often watch PBA live, hihi. Last night, I was there at the Big Dome to witness the game between Barangay Ginebra Kings (BGK) and San Miguel Beermen (SMB).

We arrived before the end of 3rd Quarter of the First Game (Coca Cola Tigers vs Sta. Lucia Realtors). I cheered for Coke, since I don't like SLR. It was a close ball game. Even at the last seconds of the 4th Quarter, it was still everybody's ball game. It was 83-82 in favor of SLR, Coke's ball with less than 30 seconds left. They had the chance to win the game with just a 2 pointer. However, the shot of Nick Belasco, if I remembered it right, didn't go in. Luckily, Coke got the rebound, they had at least 4 chances to win the game. I even cheered for Ronjay Buenafe who is great from the 3 point arc, as well as Mark Macapagal. But, they just can't get the basket. A sorry loss for them. I remember they lost the same 1 point deficit against Talk N' Text.

Now, the long wait is over. The crowd started cheering as the players of BGK entered the hardcourt, and I do to, as I saw my favorite PBA player. Me and my friend started taking pictures of 'em. Lot's of pictures. I felt touched when I saw JayJay Helterbrand hugged Coach Siot Tanquinsen. Honestly, even with a depleted line up, I hoped that BGK would win the game. I just said to myself, it's 22 today, Chris' jersey is 22, his performance last game was excellent, I hope this time, he would be hailed as the Best Player of the Game.

BGK had a poor start against the star-studded SMB. But my hopes are still high. BGK almost always have their opponent lead at around 10-15 points at the 1st half, only to break their hearts in the end game.

Funny, but, I just cheered for Chris Pacana, Ü I clearly remember how he passes the ball to Willie Wilson. It was the KFC Delivery Assist of the Quarter (1st Quarter). It was simply magnificent. Oh, I really saw how selfless he is of the leather. To shoot the ball was not always an option when he knew there were 'shooters' inside the hardcourt. Makes me admire him more each game. *wink wink*

Ha ha, I remember my cellphone slipped away from me when he scored his first 2 points. Then I uttered, "oh, it's my cellphone" (laugh). He had a back-to-back basket at that time, courtesy of his steal. Know what? He was now the league leader in steals together with SLR's Ryan Reyes. See? That's how intelligent defender Chris is.

In my Chris Pacana entitled post, I mentioned that I never knew a point guard who can really block. Well, he did it again this time. And you can hear the crowd saying 'wooooooooooo', and I'm one of 'em. Ü

However, no matter how BGK played the game, every basket was answered by SMB with 3 point shots; and, every turn over was answered as well by field goals. The result, 118-89. I thought CP22 would be the BPG since it's October 22; but, BGK standings became 2-2 instead. However, eventhough BGK lost, I don't feel sad at all. Anyway, it was too early to mourn right? At the same time, Mark Caguioa ain't around yet. But behind all these, I was just glad that Chris' game kept on improving. My prayers are answered, and my sacrifices for his career are worth it. Go Chris, no matter what, I would still be cheering for you. God Bless your career. Ü