2013 PBA MVP: What's Your Take?

We are now again in the time where we will know who deserves to be the most "important" player in the PBA. There are already many debates of the fans of the players about who really deserves the award. Now let us see who are the contenders for this prestigious award.

The image above is the 2012 PBA MVP Mark Caguioa.

Credits to www.interaksyon.com  for the image.

The contenders for the MVP plum needs to be included in the TOP 5 of Highest Statistical Point average or a winner of atleast one of the 3 Best Player Award in this season. So far, there are only 2 sure contenders. They are Jayson Castro of Talk n Text (Philippine Cup BPC) and LA Tenorio of Ginebra (Commissioner's Cup BPC).

Based on PBA-Online (http://www.pba-online.net/mvp-race/), the following are the unofficial top 5  players with the highest SPs in the season:

1. Arwind "Spiderman" Santos (Petron Blaze Boosters)

2. Calvin "The Beast" Abueva (Alaska Aces)

3. LA "The Lieutenant" Tenorio (Barangay Ginebra San Miguel) 

4. Mark "The Spark" Caguioa (Barangay Ginebra San Miguel) 

5. Jayson "The Blur" Castro (Talk n Text Tropang Texter)

Knowing the 5 contenders, who do you think deserves the MVP Plum?

I'll still GO with Marcus in 2013

The Basketball World was shaken after the rumor that Javale Mcgee is the next candidate for Naturalization. At first look, we can say that this legitimate center is a nice choice for the STARTING CENTER position of our Gilas Version 2. 

But how about our kababayan Marcus Douthit? What is next to this behemoth? 

Let us first discuss what can Pierre bring to the table.

• Javale Mcgee
• STRENGTHS 
1. This 23 year old monster is STILL not in his prime. 
2. Playing in the NBA gave this guy a first class training.
3. Being part of TEAM USA reserves is just a statement of how good he can be.
4. His intimidation factor can give Yi JianLian, Hamed Heddadi and other Asian Big Men a run for their money.
• WEAKNESSES
1. His J is still a suspect.
2. IF the plan of having him is final, and if the NBA resumes, how can he get the Chemistry we always need?
3. Do Pierre has the same attitude Big Daddy had?

Let us now go to the Reliable Big Daddy Douthit.

• Marcus Douthit
• STRENGTHS
1. In Filipino terms, Marcus is "SUBOK NA"
2. With him always available, we can say that the chemistry with him is always there.
3. Being an import in CBA, we can say that the competition he is playing is also World Class.
4. His Attitude fits in our Country.
• WEAKNESSES
1. He is aging.
2. Injury Prone.

BARBER SPEAK NOTES:

Personally, it would be nice to have Javale representing our country, but in 2013 I'll still go with Marcus as our Player. But looking in the future, Man! It is damn good! Having this two behemoth facing in the practice, it will definitely be good! Marcus teaching Javale some tricks and Javale polishing his J, it is like we are training a monster ready to explode in 2015.   

Goodluck to our Country! Our time will come! Hope that Javale realize to play in the country ;)

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "

REASONS on WHY coach Rajko should be retained by the SBP

People are now arguing whether Coach Rajko should stay and coach our RP 5 or let a Filipino coach the team. The meeting will be set after Toroman returns on Nov. 15 and personally, I hope that this Mr. Bean look a like be retained to coach our basketball team. Let us now discuss why he SHOULD stay.

•  Coach Rajko implements discipline to his players. It is quite obvious that in 3 years of Toroman in Smart Gilas, we've seen how our players execute their plays. Not taking away the 2007 and 2009 team, both team has loaded with talents compared to Gilas, but the only difference is first MARCUS, then secondly, the execution of plays.
• Coach Rajko is a well known coach that gets him the respect of the referees. With the name established by this man, it is easier for us to get the referee's attention without getting a technical foul.
• Coach Rajko is not afraid to bench/criticize his players. A good example is Japeth Aguilar. If you don't play that hard, then you will not get the playing time you want.
• Coach Rajko has unfinished business. Definitely, after a near finals appearance, he wants to be the captain of our ship again. And for me he deserves it.
• We will have a chance to see an RP DREAM TEAM on 2013. Imagine this, Professional players with chemistry + Big Daddy Douthit + some Amateur players + Coach Rajko = WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "

Manny Pangilinan's Appeal Letter to FIBA

This is posted by a friend in his FB page. It is allegedly MVP's letter to FIBA regarding Lassiter and Lutz's qualifications. The letter is not complete, some details are omitted, nevertheless, there are some good points in it. Inspiring, especially the last few lines.

Now, without further ado, for your reading pleasure:

FINAL FOUR PREVIEW

And it's Official!

The UAAP Final Four is now set. Expect a war on Thursday. Who will win the Championship? Will it be 4peat for the Eagles? How about the emergence of the Falcons? The return of the Tamaraws? Or the Tigers will roar a suprise?

ATENEO (13-1) versus UST (8-6)

*Ateneo with twice to beat advantage

First Face-off:

ADMU 66 - UST 53

Second Face-off:

ADMU 82 - UST 57

Match ups

• POINT GUARD: Emman Monfort (ADMU) vs Jeric Fortuna (UST)

The clash of the two court generals. Obviously, Jeric has the advantage in this match up, BUT if Monfort's pesky defense irritate Jeric in this series, then the Tigers will have a hard time to score an upset. 

Barber Speak Choice: Jeric Fortuna

• SHOOTING GUARD: Kiefer Ravena (ADMU) vs Jeric Teng (UST) 

Two of my favorite guards in the league. Who will in this match up? The Strength and experience of the former Xavier star, or the Agility and Basketball smarts of the Phenom? Two opposite basketball style, but one thing in common, their respective teams needs their talent to be able to compete. 

Barber Speak Choice: Kiefer Ravena

• SMALL FORWARD: Kirk Long (ADMU) vs Kevin Ferrer (UST)

Yes, Kevin Ferrer has the advantage when it comes to talent, but there's no way Kirk Long will let this rookie tiger have an easy game/series. Ateneo's Captain has all the experience he needs to play with Kevin's mind.

Barber Speak Choice: Kirk Long

• POWER FORWARD: Nico Salva (ADMU) vs Chris Camus (UST)

There's only one thing I can say in this match up, this will be easy for Camus. Speed-wise and Strength-wise Chris has the advantage. The only advantage Nico has is his jump shooting.

Barber Speak Choice: Chris Camus

• CENTER: Greg Slaughter(ADMU) vs Karim Abdul(UST)

Greg Slaughter is too tall and strong for Karim. But this former Smart Gilas player downside is his maturity. I really want to see how he reacts if Karim plays physical on him. If Greg can't hold the Physicality, then Ateneo will have a problem.

Barber Speak Choice: Greg Slaughter

* The Eagles definitely has the advantage in the bench. 

I expect a good game between this two teams on Thursday. The Tigers will give Ateneo a run for their money, but in the end the Katipunan - based school will be too much for UST.  And therefore, Ateneo will win on Thursday.

ADAMSON (10-4) versus FEU (9-5)

*Adamson with twice to beat advantage

First Face-off:

ADU 78- FEU 59

Second Face-off:

ADU 61 - FEU 62

Match ups

• POINT GUARD: Lester Alvarez (ADU) vs Terrence Romeo (FEU)

I really hope a Lester-RR match up. But knowing FEU's line up, FEU's kamikazee guard Romeo will definitely manning the point in this series. It will be a fast pace game for this two guards but the experience of Lester will be the turning point  

Barber Speak Choice: Lester Alvarez

• SHOOTING GUARD: Alex Nuyles (ADU) vs RR Garcia (FEU) 

This will be a mismatch for the Reigning MVP, Nuyles' built is so much for RR. To be able to win in the match up, RR needs Nuyles to work double time. He needs to use his quickness and his scoring instinct. 

Barber Speak Choice: Alex Nuyles

*I have a gut feeling, that because of Nuyles advantage in the match up, Coach Flores will make an adjustment that will give RR more time at the point. 

• SMALL FORWARD: Janus Lozada (ADU) vs Jr Cawaling (FEU)(Can be coach decision)

This match up will depends on how Jr can return from his injury. Talent-wise Jr has the advantage, but if his not 100 %, the other tamaraws must step up.

Barber Speak Choice: Neutral

• POWER FORWARD:  Jan Colina (ADU) vs Anton Bringas (FEU)

Colina is not the same player as what he was last year. His confidence in his shot is not there. To be able to beat FEU, the inside presence of Colina is important. Colina has the advantage in this match up, that's why Anton's intense nature is needed if he wants to give Colina a good match up. 

Barber Speak Choice: Jan Colina

• CENTER: Austin Manyara (ADU) vs Aldrech Ramos (UST)

Ramos is that guy you rely every game, his the modern day Arwind Santos, you're not expecting him to be the star of the team. But I'm sure that everyone will not be surprised if this former Gilas grabs 20 rebounds on Thursday's game. Adamson's Import is not that talented, that's why he needs to be Physical just to deny Aldrech grab the reboounds.

Barber Speak Choice: Aldrech Ramos

* Both team's bench has good players. 

This series is a dream of every basketball fan, and I tell you, (No disrespect for the Eagles) the winner of this series deserves to be the champion of this year's UAAP season. I will not be surprise if Flagrant Fouls and Technical Fouls will be called in this match up. This two teams are just too good to be eliminated. But still, I expect Adamson's momentum will be the factor that will bring them to the finals this time. BUT IF, FEU will win on thursday, then their experience together with Adamson's pressure will give them the ticket to the finals. 

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "

I admit, I'm a MARK CAGUIOA fan ;)

Just saw this pic in facebook. And SERIOUSLY I like this picture! The analogy of this picture is if we combine MJ23 and KB24, the result will be MC47! And as a Ginebra Fan, I'm definitely agree with this analogy!

We've seen the transformation of a young and aggressive Mark Caguioa during the early 2000's, and that Caguioa is a fierce guy. His crossover move can really kill his defender. During his prime, Caguioa showed the PBA fans on how to be a real competitor in the court. Yes his arrogant inside the court, but as what Filipinos say,, "MAY PAGMAMAYABANG NAMAN EH".  Who can forget about his ankle breaker against Jun Marzan of Shell?!  How about the CA-GUI-OA chant against Air21?!

After he got injured in 2008, and having his rehab on the year 2009, majority of PBA community thought (definitely not me) that he will fade away like other superstar in the PBA. But MC47 proved them wrong, YES his crossover is not the same as 2002, but his shooting ability is much improve. Also, his playmaking ability and his leadership is really admirable.  He became the leader of the team.

This is why MC47 will definitely be part of the next batch of 25 greatest players of the league, Yes, he doesn't have that MVP Plum in his name, but his contribution to the game says a lot. More importantly, His LOVE to the fans is the best attitude of this guy.

*the blog doesn't own the picture. No copyright infrigement intended.

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "

The story about the Llamados and Coach Tim Cone

Barber Speak TIME FRAME:

Before the draft:

• There are rumors about Coach Tim Cone was being eyed by the Bmeg Llamados to be their coach. 
• Coach Jong Uichico was also eyed as the next head coach.
• There are also rumors pointing that Jojo Lastimosa or Joel Banal will be the next head coach of the Aces.

During Draft Day:

• Tim Cone was still the head coach for the Aces.
• Jorge Gallent was still the head coach for the Llamados.

After the draft (Aug. 30, 2011):

• The coaching rumor came to end when the Llamados appointed Assistant Coach Richard Del Rosario to be the Acting head coach for the 37th season of the PBA.

Sept. 1, 2011:

• Tim Cone was released by the Aces.
• Joel Banal was named at the new head coach for the Aces.

Sept. 2, 2011:

• Some reports suggests that Tim Cone was having a meeting with some high SMC officials. 
• New Rumor: Tim Cone as the Consultant for the Llamados.

Adding Tim Cone to the talents of SMC means only that the Management was not happy by the way TnT( led by MVP) dominated the 36th season of the PBA that almost gave them a grandslam. If this rumor is true, Bmeg will definitely be a team to beat for the upcoming season. The Llamados using the triangle offense will mean trouble for the opposition.

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "

2011 Mock Draft

The PBA 36th season comes to an end last night. And everyone are now focused to the 36 applicants for the 2011 Annual Draft. Our group thought of giving you guys a mock draft for the first round.

The batch of applicants this Annual Draft is definitely one of the deepest in the last 10 years. That's why this draft is really interesting. Let us now start:

FIRST PICK : POWERADE

Philippe's Choice: PG 5-9 JV CASIO

Powerade pointguards: Celino Cruz, Jai Reyes, and Chico Lanete

Although their PG's are respectable, we can see that none of the three can ease the weight that Gary David has on his shoulder. That's why they need a young, stable and clutch pointguard. That's why there's no doubt JV Casio is the right person for the job.

SECOND PICK: RAIN OR SHINE

Philippe's Choice: PG/SG 6-0 PAUL LEE

The Elasto Painters already has a complete line-up. They have the man power needed in every position. And therefore getting the best talent available will be their motto in this Sunday's draft. Definitely the former hotshot of UE Red Warriors fits the job. Having Paul Lee will give them a scoring dimension that will compromise to their star Gabe Norwood creating talent. With Paul and Buenafe alternating in SG position, it will give a big boost for the Painter's campaign next season.

THIRD PICK: AIR 21

Philippe's Choice: PF/C 6-6 JASON BALLESTEROS

After giving their quality big men away in last season(Jay R Reyes, Al-Hussaini, Baclao) and already have man power in the guard position ( Hontiveros, Miller, Artadi, Arboleda), It's time for air21 to get a quality big man again. Having Salvador, Pena, and Sharma is not enough if they want to be competitive for the next season. Yes, Ballesteros is a bench warmer for our RP team, but let us not forget, he is a former Main Man for the SSC Stags, and the most important thing is he is DEFENDING our Naturalized Player Marcus Douthit and former PBA MVP Asi Taulava in practice. Now, do Jason deserve the 3rd pick? definitely YES.

FOURTH PICK : POWERADE

Philippe's Choice: SF 6-3 MARCIO LASSITER

Having bad games since the Ginebra-Smart Gilas semifinal series of the PBA's Commisioners Cup gives Marcio Lassiter a bad impression for this year's draft. Choker is one word that defines Marcio's game for the last 3 months. But let us not forget he can score 20-30 points every given night if he wants to. He just need to regain his confidence and with that maybe the Scoring Side of Marcio will return. He is also a good defender with good leaping ability. Having him, Casio and Sean Anthony will really give the franchise's fans reasons to smile.

FIFTH PICK : SHOPINAS

Philippe's Choice: PG 5-10 ANDY BARROCA

For a rebulding team like Shopinas, and having Franz Pumaren as their coach, it is a wise move to get a ready made point guard like Andy. Him as the primary court general of Shopinas will give Franz pumaren an easier job.

SIXTH PICK : ALASKA

Philippe's Choice: SF/SG 6-3 CHRIS LUTZ

Lutz is a good defender, smart player and a shooter. That is what alaska needed, a smart player that will fit to their triangle offense. I can see the second coming of Tony DelaCruz with a wider range.

SEVENTH PICK : TALK N TEXT

Philippe's Choice: PG/SG 5-11 ERIC SALAMAT

TNT is a COMPLETE team. But one problem that exposed in the Petron-Tnt series is their lack of PG's. Castro and Alapag is not enough. Ryan Reyes is better playing the two spot. That's why getting Salamat will solve Tnt's problem. And remember, Eric's a former eagle ;)

EIGHT PICK : PETRON

Philippe's Choice: SG/SF 6-3 DYLAN ABABOU

A scoring guard is needed by Petron, after the departure of dondon, this is the obvious position needed to be fill in. There will be no import this time. Duncil and Hubalde will return to their original mother team, and Ababou is the perfect choice.

NINTH PICK : GINEBRA

Philippe's Choice: SF/PF 6-4 MARNEL BARACAEL

As much as Ginebra needed a taller big man, It is a sin to disregardMarnel as their 9th pick. Marnel defines the true character of a BGK player. Hussle, Attitude, Heart. Having him in the team will be a big help for the aging kings.

TENTH PICK : AIR21

Philippe's Choice: C 6-7 MAGI SISON

Remember 2002 when this same franchise chose St. Francis of Assisi's stalwart Yancy De Ocampo? Magi looks like Yancy's carbon copy, but a smaller and agile big man. He is the next best big man after ballesteros. But we will not be surprised if he get traded on that same day.

This is only our choices feel free to comment.

See you on August 28 2011..

" Philip Zuñiga is a graduate of Philippine Normal University. He is a certified sports fan since 1996. "