Monday, July 31, 2006
The Blue Eagles are 5-0
Ateneo rolled onto its fifth straight win in as many tries with an 82-75 decision versus the UE Red Warriors. It was one thing to return to the stands to see our team play live again--it was my first live game since graduating from college--but heck, it sure is hella better seeing them winning while I'm at it. Damn, I can't wait for next weekend!
Obviously, with a league-leading 5-0 record, the Eagles look poised to crack the Final Four again this season. I really like our chances to go even further. Close wins against weaker teams notwithstanding, I think it still merits some credit that our boys still manage to pull wins off even while struggling/failing to win convincingly. It was also only in this game that I've seen just how deep our roster actually is: with a ton of potential--if not talent just yet--in the backcourt and solid performers up front. Long-term thinking would lead me to worry about the voids that JC Intal and Doug Kramer will leave behind, but i'm sure Ateneo will come up with something soon (teehee). The important thing is that our Blue Eagles seem to be in superb shape this year.
*sigh* If only the Archers were around to make things even more exciting... (Speaking of whom, it seems rather interesting that majority of the UAAP men's ballgames are being held at a venue which is just a stone's throw away from
ONE BIG FIGHT!!!
(Ooh, by the way, I've already uploaded the UAAP clips i've kept from season 67 on YouTube. Check them out here. Enjoy!)
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Ginebra goes BIG BIG BIG!
This PBA trade news from Philippine Star made my jaws drop. To cut the long story short, the Ginebra Gin Kings, Air21 Express, and Coca-Cola Tigers entered a three-way trade which paved the way for the entry of Rafi Reavis and Billy Mamaril to the Gin Kings camp plus rights to Rudy Hatfield, should "H-Bomb" decide to return to the PBA (according to this news, Rudy Hatfield intends to play in the PBA again). Gone from Ginebra are role players Aris Dimaunahan (to Air21 Express), Kalani Ferreria (to Coca-Cola), Manny Ramos (back to Coca-Cola again), and Ervin Sotto (to Air21 Express), plus draft rights for this year's draft to Coke. The Express gives up Ryan Bernardo to the Tigers.
I feel I have yet to pick up my jaws because they fell when I read the news. Still, I could not believe what transpired.
Shet. Fuck. It's as if the tables have turned. Somebody wake me up.
One thing bothers me: what the hell is Ginebra thinking. Or what the hell is Coke thinking.
Minus the traded players, Ginebra currently have Eric Menk, Romel Adducul (still injured), Andy Seigle, Mike Holper, Allen Salangsang, Rodney Santos (still injured), Sunday Salvacion, Mark Macapagal, Mark Caguioa, Egay Echavez, and Jayjay Helterbrand. Ginebra then acquires two players in Rafi Reavis and Billy Mamaril (and possibly Rudy Hatfield).
While the Gin Kings grew taller, they got short on their back-court. They lost Aris Dimaunahan and Kalani Ferreria. A surplus in big men is seen also: you have Eric Menk, Billy Mamaril, Romel Adducul, Andy Seigle jockying up for the four/five slot. Rafi Reavis and Mike Holper (plus Sunday Salvacion and Allan Salangsang) will rotate on the number three spot. That leaves Mark Caguioa, Jayjay Helterbrand, Macapagal, Santos, and Echaves to rotate on the guard spots.
How will the exodus of players and the entry of big men affect Ginebra's player rotation, most notably its front court and backcourt? While Ginebra may be big this time, it has lost its high-octane speed when they lost Ferreria and Dimaunahan. The trio of Ferreria, Caguioa, and Helterbrand did wonders to Ginebra back in the 2005-2006 season. Plus, who are the 10 players which Ginebra will protect when the PBA holds its dispersal draft to new Welcoat Paints?
Totoo ba itich na magbabalik-coach si Jaworski? There were rumors that the San Miguel Corporation talked with the Living Legend to coach a SMC-owned team.
Meanwhile the Air21 Express seems to be happy with what they got from the trade. The only team in the PBA which has no Fil-Ams in its line-up, The Express now have the triumvurate St. Francis Alumni de Ocampo brothers and Sotto. That's nice, plus they have Mark Telan with them also, plus another guard in Aris Dimaunahan whom they always wanted to get. They lost only seldomly-used Ryan Bernardo (who played with the Lina-owned franchise since the days of the Laguna Lakers in the MBA).
The balance of force in the PBA shakes again with these trades. The intrigues build up when the PBA holds its dispersal draft and the rookie draft in August. It makes it more interesting to watch the PBA when the big league opens its doors on October 1, 2006.
Viva PBA! Go Ginebra!
I feel I have yet to pick up my jaws because they fell when I read the news. Still, I could not believe what transpired.
Shet. Fuck. It's as if the tables have turned. Somebody wake me up.
One thing bothers me: what the hell is Ginebra thinking. Or what the hell is Coke thinking.
Minus the traded players, Ginebra currently have Eric Menk, Romel Adducul (still injured), Andy Seigle, Mike Holper, Allen Salangsang, Rodney Santos (still injured), Sunday Salvacion, Mark Macapagal, Mark Caguioa, Egay Echavez, and Jayjay Helterbrand. Ginebra then acquires two players in Rafi Reavis and Billy Mamaril (and possibly Rudy Hatfield).
While the Gin Kings grew taller, they got short on their back-court. They lost Aris Dimaunahan and Kalani Ferreria. A surplus in big men is seen also: you have Eric Menk, Billy Mamaril, Romel Adducul, Andy Seigle jockying up for the four/five slot. Rafi Reavis and Mike Holper (plus Sunday Salvacion and Allan Salangsang) will rotate on the number three spot. That leaves Mark Caguioa, Jayjay Helterbrand, Macapagal, Santos, and Echaves to rotate on the guard spots.
How will the exodus of players and the entry of big men affect Ginebra's player rotation, most notably its front court and backcourt? While Ginebra may be big this time, it has lost its high-octane speed when they lost Ferreria and Dimaunahan. The trio of Ferreria, Caguioa, and Helterbrand did wonders to Ginebra back in the 2005-2006 season. Plus, who are the 10 players which Ginebra will protect when the PBA holds its dispersal draft to new Welcoat Paints?
Totoo ba itich na magbabalik-coach si Jaworski? There were rumors that the San Miguel Corporation talked with the Living Legend to coach a SMC-owned team.
Meanwhile the Air21 Express seems to be happy with what they got from the trade. The only team in the PBA which has no Fil-Ams in its line-up, The Express now have the triumvurate St. Francis Alumni de Ocampo brothers and Sotto. That's nice, plus they have Mark Telan with them also, plus another guard in Aris Dimaunahan whom they always wanted to get. They lost only seldomly-used Ryan Bernardo (who played with the Lina-owned franchise since the days of the Laguna Lakers in the MBA).
The balance of force in the PBA shakes again with these trades. The intrigues build up when the PBA holds its dispersal draft and the rookie draft in August. It makes it more interesting to watch the PBA when the big league opens its doors on October 1, 2006.
Viva PBA! Go Ginebra!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Blue Eagles Flying Higher and Higher
A third of the elimination round has finished in the ongoing 69th UAAP Men's basketball tournament, and we're seeing the Ateneo Blue Eagles flying higher and higher. The Blue Eagles are currently carrying an umblemished 4-0 card, with wins against the NU Bulldogs (which I blogged here), UP Fighting Maroons, a come from behind victory against the Adamson Soaring Falcons, and another victory against the FEU Tamaraws.
Though they are not star-studded, the Blue Eagles are sporting a very balanced line-up in each game they're playing. In the game against the UP Fighting Maroons back in July 16, 2006, the Blue Eagles were carried by the late game heroics of rookie Eric Salamat behind an 11/12 FT shooting, plus the infinite hustle of Zion Laterre and the consistent plays of veterans JC Intal, Doug Kramer, and Macky Escalona. The Blue and White survived the attack of Marvin Cruz's 29 points and rookie Migs de Asis' outside sniping, by establishing a comfortable 10 point lead going to the fourth quarter.
Meanwhile, in the game against the Adamson Falcons back in July 20, 2006, the Blue Eagles survived a horrific 2nd quarter field goal shooting, a scoring drought after leading as much as 10 points with 5 minutes left in the game, a late game rally by the Falcons, which they all overcame via a come-from-behind victory. Doug Kramer and JC Intal played their consistent games, but it was Yuri Escueta and Chris Tiu who played big in the home stretch by unleashing two timely triples. Yuri Escueta doubled up on Falcon Ken Bono on the final seconds of the game and forced big Bono into a turnover by stealing the precious basketball. It would have been an upset had Adamson won against Ateneo, but the late game breaks went to the Ateneans' favor.
Top met bottom as the Blue Eagles took their unblemished 3-0 record against a surprisingly winless but victory hungry FEU Tamaraws. The Tamaraws unleashed an 8-0 start behind Tamaraw Arvee Mangahas' game face (hehe), but the Blue Eagles kept their composure and crept on to the Tamaraws lead behind the solid plays of the trio Doug Kramer, Macky Escalona, and JC Intal to lead the half 43-40. The Blue Eagles padded their lead to a comfortable 10 point margin entering the fourth, but FEU eventually took the lead behind the guns of Jeff Chan. An Escalona triple tied the game before the Ateneans eventually took control of the game behind JC Intal's and Chris Tiu's timely assists to Doug Kramer at crunch time which gave them a comfortable 5 point lead, 78-73, with 10 seconds left. Doug was solid from the free throw line behind an 8 of 8 free throw shooting, and produced his third consecutive double-double performance with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
From the looks of those victories, it is the consistent plays of veterans JC Intal, Macky Escalona, and Doug Kramer (who are the last remnants of the 2002 UAAP Champions) which is doing the trick: JC Intal for those slashing and running baskets, Escalona for those assists under the basket, and Doug's consistent double-double performance inside the paint. The bench also provide a solid and balanced offense, most notably Chris Tiu, Yuri Escueta, Eric Salamat, Zion Laterre, and Ford Arao. It's also worth noting though that Ken Barracoso and Jai Reyes have been getting limited minutes. So far because of his limited minutes, Jai Reyes hasn't lived up to his reputation of the team's outside gunner. Eric Salamat hasn't followed up his 17 point performance against UP, which probably brings pressure on his part as some scribes has named him already the league's Rookie of the Year this early in the tourney. He is lucky though that this early, he is given enough minutes by Coach Norman Black for a rookie.
It's also worth looking at the other teams now that we're seeing a relatively balanced competition. UST this early is surprising everyone, scoring upsets against the FEU Tamaraws and UE Warriors, after getting a defeat from the UP Maroons. The NU Bulldogs also are showing everyone that they are for real when they almost scored upset wins over the UE Warriors and the Ateneo Blue Eagles, before finally taking a bite on the FEU Tamaraws. Adamson too, is back on its winning ways by drubbing UP Maroons and the NU Bulldogs, but absorbed defeats from powerhouses UE and Ateneo. UP too is an exciting team to watch with its outside sniping rookies and super-scorer Marvin Cruz.
Anything can happen in the coming days of competition as the league is nearing half the elimination mark. Nothing is certain in the league. For the first time in years, we're seeing two slots suddenly opening up for the last final four slots, assuming Ateneo and UE enter the final four. We're seeing FEU drop to give rise to either UST, NU, UP or Adamson to fill in those slots: a position they haven't gone in for years. It's worth watching every game.
And for La Salle, oh don't claim that the UAAP needs you more than you need the UAAP. Don't say that just because you got suspended, suddenly Ateneo or UE are on top. Just sit down and relax and just watch the competition. Hehe :D
Go Ateneo, One Big Fight!
Though they are not star-studded, the Blue Eagles are sporting a very balanced line-up in each game they're playing. In the game against the UP Fighting Maroons back in July 16, 2006, the Blue Eagles were carried by the late game heroics of rookie Eric Salamat behind an 11/12 FT shooting, plus the infinite hustle of Zion Laterre and the consistent plays of veterans JC Intal, Doug Kramer, and Macky Escalona. The Blue and White survived the attack of Marvin Cruz's 29 points and rookie Migs de Asis' outside sniping, by establishing a comfortable 10 point lead going to the fourth quarter.
Meanwhile, in the game against the Adamson Falcons back in July 20, 2006, the Blue Eagles survived a horrific 2nd quarter field goal shooting, a scoring drought after leading as much as 10 points with 5 minutes left in the game, a late game rally by the Falcons, which they all overcame via a come-from-behind victory. Doug Kramer and JC Intal played their consistent games, but it was Yuri Escueta and Chris Tiu who played big in the home stretch by unleashing two timely triples. Yuri Escueta doubled up on Falcon Ken Bono on the final seconds of the game and forced big Bono into a turnover by stealing the precious basketball. It would have been an upset had Adamson won against Ateneo, but the late game breaks went to the Ateneans' favor.
Top met bottom as the Blue Eagles took their unblemished 3-0 record against a surprisingly winless but victory hungry FEU Tamaraws. The Tamaraws unleashed an 8-0 start behind Tamaraw Arvee Mangahas' game face (hehe), but the Blue Eagles kept their composure and crept on to the Tamaraws lead behind the solid plays of the trio Doug Kramer, Macky Escalona, and JC Intal to lead the half 43-40. The Blue Eagles padded their lead to a comfortable 10 point margin entering the fourth, but FEU eventually took the lead behind the guns of Jeff Chan. An Escalona triple tied the game before the Ateneans eventually took control of the game behind JC Intal's and Chris Tiu's timely assists to Doug Kramer at crunch time which gave them a comfortable 5 point lead, 78-73, with 10 seconds left. Doug was solid from the free throw line behind an 8 of 8 free throw shooting, and produced his third consecutive double-double performance with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
From the looks of those victories, it is the consistent plays of veterans JC Intal, Macky Escalona, and Doug Kramer (who are the last remnants of the 2002 UAAP Champions) which is doing the trick: JC Intal for those slashing and running baskets, Escalona for those assists under the basket, and Doug's consistent double-double performance inside the paint. The bench also provide a solid and balanced offense, most notably Chris Tiu, Yuri Escueta, Eric Salamat, Zion Laterre, and Ford Arao. It's also worth noting though that Ken Barracoso and Jai Reyes have been getting limited minutes. So far because of his limited minutes, Jai Reyes hasn't lived up to his reputation of the team's outside gunner. Eric Salamat hasn't followed up his 17 point performance against UP, which probably brings pressure on his part as some scribes has named him already the league's Rookie of the Year this early in the tourney. He is lucky though that this early, he is given enough minutes by Coach Norman Black for a rookie.
It's also worth looking at the other teams now that we're seeing a relatively balanced competition. UST this early is surprising everyone, scoring upsets against the FEU Tamaraws and UE Warriors, after getting a defeat from the UP Maroons. The NU Bulldogs also are showing everyone that they are for real when they almost scored upset wins over the UE Warriors and the Ateneo Blue Eagles, before finally taking a bite on the FEU Tamaraws. Adamson too, is back on its winning ways by drubbing UP Maroons and the NU Bulldogs, but absorbed defeats from powerhouses UE and Ateneo. UP too is an exciting team to watch with its outside sniping rookies and super-scorer Marvin Cruz.
Anything can happen in the coming days of competition as the league is nearing half the elimination mark. Nothing is certain in the league. For the first time in years, we're seeing two slots suddenly opening up for the last final four slots, assuming Ateneo and UE enter the final four. We're seeing FEU drop to give rise to either UST, NU, UP or Adamson to fill in those slots: a position they haven't gone in for years. It's worth watching every game.
And for La Salle, oh don't claim that the UAAP needs you more than you need the UAAP. Don't say that just because you got suspended, suddenly Ateneo or UE are on top. Just sit down and relax and just watch the competition. Hehe :D
Go Ateneo, One Big Fight!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Team Philippines would've been awesome
Team USA has been preparing it's team for the past several months beginning when they selected legendary NCAA coach, Mike Krzyzewski, and his staff. They have selected 30 of the best players that will best fit the team and require from them a (relatively) long-term commitment. A far cry from the previous selection process - just getting the 12 biggest American stars and put them together for a few weeks.
Now, if you remember, this is EXACTLY how Team Philippines was being built... only we initiated this process well before these Americans ever even announced their own plans, and the American press make it look as if what they're doing is completely novel and revolutionary.
Obviously, we were going in the right direction and we were a few steps ahead of the supposed global leader in basketball in terms of process. Just think where Team Philippines could've gotten if not for all of the bullshit our local basketball politics has had to go through.
I'm not saying that we would've had a realistic chance at challenging Argentina, Lithuania, the U.S., or any of the established big teams in the international basketball scene any time soon, but we certainly would've been able to at least leave our mark in FIBA basketball and build for the future.
Now, if you remember, this is EXACTLY how Team Philippines was being built... only we initiated this process well before these Americans ever even announced their own plans, and the American press make it look as if what they're doing is completely novel and revolutionary.
Obviously, we were going in the right direction and we were a few steps ahead of the supposed global leader in basketball in terms of process. Just think where Team Philippines could've gotten if not for all of the bullshit our local basketball politics has had to go through.
I'm not saying that we would've had a realistic chance at challenging Argentina, Lithuania, the U.S., or any of the established big teams in the international basketball scene any time soon, but we certainly would've been able to at least leave our mark in FIBA basketball and build for the future.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Manual's Make-Your-Own-Baller-Name-Contest
Have you guys read MANual's mag for July? It has really interesting articles, like "PBA's 1985-1995 vs. 1996-2006 players: who will win." and this article which talks about how our player's monickers somehow deteriorated through the years, especially in the PBA scene.
Gone are the Julius "Dr. J" Erving (because he operates in the middle lane), Earl "the Pearl" Monroe, Dominique "the Human Highlight Reel" Wilkins, Larry "Basketball Jesus" Bird, Ervin "Magic" Johnson, and Michael "Air" Jordan. Even in the PBA, gone are the names like "Big J", "Fortune Cookie", "The Scholar", "Director", "Captain", "Flying A", "Point Laureate", "Tower of Power", "Triggerman", etc.
Instead, we have Bong "The Hawk" Hawkins (as pointed out by our very own Alvin Ang), Andy "the Eagle" Seigle (wtf), "Dynamite" Danny Seigle, Eric "Major Pain" Menk, Asi "The Rock" Taulava (this really sucks), Kalani "X-Factor" Ferreria (because of his stint in.. yep, Xerex the Movie), James "Boy Thunder" Yap, etc..
Monickers identify players. They stick with them. You identify players based on their monickers. You remember them. They become legends. But when you're named "The Hawk" or "the Eagle" or even "Mighty Mouse" because it rhymes with your name, or your height, that kinda sucks. Or just because you appeared on a movie or a show.
Which is why Manual launched this Make-Your-Own-Baller-Name-Contest. For details, well, buy the magazine. hehe. Basta it doesn't have to be pointed to a particular player. Think of a name. Just pour out your creative (err... not man) juice. I'll post the mechanics later. Maybe our blog could become famous because of this! haha.
Or maybe we could create one for each of us. haha. Like Eumir "Hindi na naeu-eumir" Gaspar. Or G "underhand-freethrow shot-na-hindi-pumapasok" Abrencillo. Alvin King "the King" Ang.
I personally like my monicker. Thanks Jeff S. :D
Goodluck to us! :D
Gone are the Julius "Dr. J" Erving (because he operates in the middle lane), Earl "the Pearl" Monroe, Dominique "the Human Highlight Reel" Wilkins, Larry "Basketball Jesus" Bird, Ervin "Magic" Johnson, and Michael "Air" Jordan. Even in the PBA, gone are the names like "Big J", "Fortune Cookie", "The Scholar", "Director", "Captain", "Flying A", "Point Laureate", "Tower of Power", "Triggerman", etc.
Instead, we have Bong "The Hawk" Hawkins (as pointed out by our very own Alvin Ang), Andy "the Eagle" Seigle (wtf), "Dynamite" Danny Seigle, Eric "Major Pain" Menk, Asi "The Rock" Taulava (this really sucks), Kalani "X-Factor" Ferreria (because of his stint in.. yep, Xerex the Movie), James "Boy Thunder" Yap, etc..
Monickers identify players. They stick with them. You identify players based on their monickers. You remember them. They become legends. But when you're named "The Hawk" or "the Eagle" or even "Mighty Mouse" because it rhymes with your name, or your height, that kinda sucks. Or just because you appeared on a movie or a show.
Which is why Manual launched this Make-Your-Own-Baller-Name-Contest. For details, well, buy the magazine. hehe. Basta it doesn't have to be pointed to a particular player. Think of a name. Just pour out your creative (err... not man) juice. I'll post the mechanics later. Maybe our blog could become famous because of this! haha.
Or maybe we could create one for each of us. haha. Like Eumir "Hindi na naeu-eumir" Gaspar. Or G "underhand-freethrow shot-na-hindi-pumapasok" Abrencillo. Alvin King "the King" Ang.
I personally like my monicker. Thanks Jeff S. :D
Goodluck to us! :D
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
2005-2006 PBA Leo Awards Predictions
The 31st season of the PBA is coming to a close. Funny how the celebrated league opened with a Red Bull-Purefoods game back in October 2, 2005, and will close with the two teams disputing once more for the coveted championship. The Leo Awards (named after Leo Prieto, 1st Commissioner of the PBA) will be held before Game 4 of the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup Championship. Once again I, the PBA follower and the Ginebra fanatic, will give my bold predictions on the awardees as unbiased as I can.
Go Ginebra!
Rookie of the Year
Darnit, I didn't finish part 2 of the evaluation of the PBA rookies. Anyway, it's no brainer that Larry Fonacier will win the award. How he got back at his playing form after suffering an ACL injury back in July of 2004 and reoperated again last year and not able to participate in the Rookie Camp is something wonderful and remarkable. He has become an integral part of the Red Bull offense, and was a key player in Red Bull's semifinals campaign against Ginebra early this year (which I still can't get over). He's one of three rookies (the others being Jondan Salvador and Mark Macapagal) who was awarded best player of the week award, and he did it twice. Amazing. Also, he's one of only few players who was drafted in the second round but emerged as the Rookie of the Year (the other being Gerry Esplana).
runner-ups include: Mike Holper and Mark Macapagal of Ginebra, Paolo Bugia and Leo Najora of Red Bull, and KG Canaleta of Air21.
Most Improved Player
I have four candidates for this one: James Yap, Marc Pingris, Roger Yap, and Lordy Tugade. For me, Marc Pingris showed his vast improvement after being traded to Purefoods from Air21. He gained his minutes, blocks shots, grabs rebounds emphatically, and also scores. Roger Yap, meanwhile, has become an integral part of the Purefoods offense as well. He was the solution to the point-guard woes of Purefoods in the past two years. Lordy Tugade, meanwhile is the most underrated player and most overlooked for this award, I believe. The "Alaminos Assassin" has reached his peak, as he has led Red Bull in scoring most of the time. Norman Black even commented that Lordy Tugade should really be considered in the Pilipinas National Team for his outside shooting.
However, I'm betting that it is James Yap who'll win the award. It's not just because he is the darling of the media, but also he has a game to back it up. Unbelievably, this former PBA rookie of the year runner-up is leading the MVP race in statistical points (whatever happened to you Rich Alvarez!). Kris Aquino must have done something to him.
Defensive Team
I can only think of three names at the moment: Wynnie "the snatcher!" Arboleda for his steals, Dorian "the Junkyard Dawg" Pena for his rebounds, and Marc Pingris.
Mythical Team
The following players will compose the mythical team selection: Mark Caguioa (for leading the league in points scored, and kasi Ginebra sya hahaha), Danny Seigle (for winning the Best Player of the PBA Philippine Cup), Nic Belasco (for leading the Alaska Aces to a final four finish in the PBA Philippine Cup), Marc Pingris (who disloged Mark Caguioa from the MVP race and is currently ranked 5th in statistical points), Kerby Raymundo, Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade, and James Yap. So far, I'm missing two point-guards, and I bet they will turn out to be Roger Yap and Jayjay Helterbrand.
The first team will be composed of the following: Roger Yap (G), James Yap (G), Lordy Tugade (F), Kerby Raymundo (F), and Enrico Villanueva (C). They are there not only because of statistical points, but also for leading their respective teams to two finals appearances.
The second team will be composed of the back-court tandem of Jayjay Helterbrand (G) and Mark Caguioa (G; who's again disloged from the mythical five because of another player whom he plays the same position with and in this case it is James Yap), Danny Seigle (F), Marc Pingris (F; disloged by Enrico Villanueva), and Nic Belasco (C).
Most Valuable Player
Perhaps this is the most difficult award to predict, but we have five candidates based on the statistical points at the end of the semi-finals match of the PBA Philippine Cup in this order: James Yap, Enrico Villanueva, Kerby Raymundo, Lordy Tugade, and Marc Pingris. The top three candidates Yap, Raymundo, and Villanueva, are too close to call. Yap's lead in the statistical points is no guarantee of an MVP (which happened to Mark Caguioa last year) award. Before I give my verdict, I'll narrow down my choice into two first: Enrico Villanueva and Kerby Raymundo.
Enrico Villanueva may have an advantage for winning the PBA Fiesta Conference Best Player award, but has dipped his presence in the Philippine Cup. While there are a lot of players in the Red Bull camp who can provide good offense, there's no doubt about Enrico's role as Red Bull's top and franchise player. Same with Kerby Raymundo (who ironically came from Red Bull). Kerby has led the Giants on a consistent basis. Kerby is Purefoods main man. As I have said, Enrico's team has a lot of good players who can shine on any given time. Enrico plays with power, Kerby plays with smooth style.
Enrico may be a favorite because of his Best Player of the Fiesta Conference award and for leading Red Bull to the Fiesta Conference crown, but I'm rooting for Kerby Raymundo if the basis would be a player's worth to a given team. Purefoods go where Kerby leads them.
It's worth noting that back in the PBL when Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao was the commissioner of the amateur league, Guiao started the "Raymundo-Villanueva" rivalry, and he showcased the league between these two players. Meanwhile, another thing to note is that in between James Yap and Kerby Raymundo, this year's MVP votation is one of the closest between teammmates. Back in 1993, Jerry Codinera led the MVP race behind and Alvin Patrimonio, but the latter won the award. A teary-eyed Patrimonio hugged (awwh) Jerry Codinera as a sign of respect. Cool.
Another thing I'm betting on is Kris Aquino will rant on James Yap's loss to the MVP race in her show The Buzz!
Finally
The ongoing Philippine Cup finals between Red Bull and Purefoods is also too close to call, and I'm betting that it might reach a game 7. Purefoods may emerge as the victor, not only because I'm rooting for them and I don't like Red Bull, but because of their two-game advantage over Red Bull. But anything can go. Purefoods was down 0-2 and 1-3 in their semifinals assignment against Alaska but still won in the end. Same goes with the Miami Heat (ugh!!!). Besides, Purefoods has a point to prove.
And I'm watching the games tonight live. woohoo!
Floor is open for comments, deliberation, and tomatoes.
Go Ginebra!
Rookie of the Year
Darnit, I didn't finish part 2 of the evaluation of the PBA rookies. Anyway, it's no brainer that Larry Fonacier will win the award. How he got back at his playing form after suffering an ACL injury back in July of 2004 and reoperated again last year and not able to participate in the Rookie Camp is something wonderful and remarkable. He has become an integral part of the Red Bull offense, and was a key player in Red Bull's semifinals campaign against Ginebra early this year (which I still can't get over). He's one of three rookies (the others being Jondan Salvador and Mark Macapagal) who was awarded best player of the week award, and he did it twice. Amazing. Also, he's one of only few players who was drafted in the second round but emerged as the Rookie of the Year (the other being Gerry Esplana).
runner-ups include: Mike Holper and Mark Macapagal of Ginebra, Paolo Bugia and Leo Najora of Red Bull, and KG Canaleta of Air21.
Most Improved Player
I have four candidates for this one: James Yap, Marc Pingris, Roger Yap, and Lordy Tugade. For me, Marc Pingris showed his vast improvement after being traded to Purefoods from Air21. He gained his minutes, blocks shots, grabs rebounds emphatically, and also scores. Roger Yap, meanwhile, has become an integral part of the Purefoods offense as well. He was the solution to the point-guard woes of Purefoods in the past two years. Lordy Tugade, meanwhile is the most underrated player and most overlooked for this award, I believe. The "Alaminos Assassin" has reached his peak, as he has led Red Bull in scoring most of the time. Norman Black even commented that Lordy Tugade should really be considered in the Pilipinas National Team for his outside shooting.
However, I'm betting that it is James Yap who'll win the award. It's not just because he is the darling of the media, but also he has a game to back it up. Unbelievably, this former PBA rookie of the year runner-up is leading the MVP race in statistical points (whatever happened to you Rich Alvarez!). Kris Aquino must have done something to him.
Defensive Team
I can only think of three names at the moment: Wynnie "the snatcher!" Arboleda for his steals, Dorian "the Junkyard Dawg" Pena for his rebounds, and Marc Pingris.
Mythical Team
The following players will compose the mythical team selection: Mark Caguioa (for leading the league in points scored, and kasi Ginebra sya hahaha), Danny Seigle (for winning the Best Player of the PBA Philippine Cup), Nic Belasco (for leading the Alaska Aces to a final four finish in the PBA Philippine Cup), Marc Pingris (who disloged Mark Caguioa from the MVP race and is currently ranked 5th in statistical points), Kerby Raymundo, Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade, and James Yap. So far, I'm missing two point-guards, and I bet they will turn out to be Roger Yap and Jayjay Helterbrand.
The first team will be composed of the following: Roger Yap (G), James Yap (G), Lordy Tugade (F), Kerby Raymundo (F), and Enrico Villanueva (C). They are there not only because of statistical points, but also for leading their respective teams to two finals appearances.
The second team will be composed of the back-court tandem of Jayjay Helterbrand (G) and Mark Caguioa (G; who's again disloged from the mythical five because of another player whom he plays the same position with and in this case it is James Yap), Danny Seigle (F), Marc Pingris (F; disloged by Enrico Villanueva), and Nic Belasco (C).
Most Valuable Player
Perhaps this is the most difficult award to predict, but we have five candidates based on the statistical points at the end of the semi-finals match of the PBA Philippine Cup in this order: James Yap, Enrico Villanueva, Kerby Raymundo, Lordy Tugade, and Marc Pingris. The top three candidates Yap, Raymundo, and Villanueva, are too close to call. Yap's lead in the statistical points is no guarantee of an MVP (which happened to Mark Caguioa last year) award. Before I give my verdict, I'll narrow down my choice into two first: Enrico Villanueva and Kerby Raymundo.
Enrico Villanueva may have an advantage for winning the PBA Fiesta Conference Best Player award, but has dipped his presence in the Philippine Cup. While there are a lot of players in the Red Bull camp who can provide good offense, there's no doubt about Enrico's role as Red Bull's top and franchise player. Same with Kerby Raymundo (who ironically came from Red Bull). Kerby has led the Giants on a consistent basis. Kerby is Purefoods main man. As I have said, Enrico's team has a lot of good players who can shine on any given time. Enrico plays with power, Kerby plays with smooth style.
Enrico may be a favorite because of his Best Player of the Fiesta Conference award and for leading Red Bull to the Fiesta Conference crown, but I'm rooting for Kerby Raymundo if the basis would be a player's worth to a given team. Purefoods go where Kerby leads them.
It's worth noting that back in the PBL when Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao was the commissioner of the amateur league, Guiao started the "Raymundo-Villanueva" rivalry, and he showcased the league between these two players. Meanwhile, another thing to note is that in between James Yap and Kerby Raymundo, this year's MVP votation is one of the closest between teammmates. Back in 1993, Jerry Codinera led the MVP race behind and Alvin Patrimonio, but the latter won the award. A teary-eyed Patrimonio hugged (awwh) Jerry Codinera as a sign of respect. Cool.
Another thing I'm betting on is Kris Aquino will rant on James Yap's loss to the MVP race in her show The Buzz!
Finally
The ongoing Philippine Cup finals between Red Bull and Purefoods is also too close to call, and I'm betting that it might reach a game 7. Purefoods may emerge as the victor, not only because I'm rooting for them and I don't like Red Bull, but because of their two-game advantage over Red Bull. But anything can go. Purefoods was down 0-2 and 1-3 in their semifinals assignment against Alaska but still won in the end. Same goes with the Miami Heat (ugh!!!). Besides, Purefoods has a point to prove.
And I'm watching the games tonight live. woohoo!
Floor is open for comments, deliberation, and tomatoes.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Still Rusty
It's been a while since Rocky and I last watched an Ateneo UAAP basketball game. The last one was back in September 25, 2005, when La Salle defeated Ateneo in the final four. The Ateneo-La Salle Dream Games back in December 8, 2005 was close to a UAAP game, only that there was PBA music during play instead of the Babble/Pep Squad's drumbeat and cheers. Before I packed-up for this game, I made sure I brought the right jersey to wear (not a Ginebra jersey) and the right aura and attitude. I started chating "Gi-neb-ra" instead of "One Big Fight" during the UAAP game and Rocky had to constrain me (withdrawal symptoms). "This is UAAP and not PBA," I kept on repeating to myself those words so that I would be convinced that the PBA season, as far as I'm concerned (PBA season is the Ginebra season) is over, and the Blue Eagles' season has started anew.
Enough about the PBA. Let's talk about the Blue Eagles and their performance in the UAAP against the NU Bulldogs. Promise. No more talks about Ginebra. Go Purefoods!
***
This year's UAAP basketball season is exceptional with De La Salle University serving its one year suspension. On their absence the recruitment market was shaken, not only for basketball but also in other sports as well. Even before the UAAP started, the University of the East Warriors were labeled as favorites for this season, followed by the Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles, and the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, plus another team (which I'm betting will be the scary University of the Philippines Maroons! OMG Maroons!). The Warriors, who won their last championship back in 1985 with Allan Caidic and Jerry Codinera, are parading most of their players in their line-up last year, plus a number of "rookies" (or transferees, Pumaren style).
The Ateneo Blue Eagles meanwhile lost star point-guard LA Tenorio, Magnum Membrere, and Badjie del Rosario (must I say finally? hehe) to eligibility, plus Japeth Aguilar who's trying his luck in the US NCAA schools. Returning are Chris Tiu (with his elbow) from his Junior Term Abroad (JTA), Yuri Escueta and Johann Uichico from "Team Glory Be". Team-A returnees include veterans JC Intal, Doug Kramer, and Macky Escalona, plus Martin Quimson, Ford Arao (from an ACL injury he sustained last season), Ken Barracoso, Zion Laterre, and sophomores Jai Reyes and Rabeh Al-Hussaini. Completing the cast are rookies Eric Salamat, a former Staglet, and Eman Monfort from Ateneo de Iloilo.
From the looks of it, whether he likes it or not, this Blue Eagles team is JC Intal's team. Compared to the 2002 Champions Blue Eagles, one can see that other than JC Intal, there isn't a consistent scorer or someone who can pick up the scoring load (or a "super-star"). Back in 2002, the offense is spread to either Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Wesley Gonzales, Larry Fonacier, or LA Tenorio. I believe that this team will go where JC Intal goes. UBelt.com even believes that JC Intal may be awarded the Most Valuable Player at the end of the season, but the season has barely started anyway. If Japeth didn't leave for the US, I wouldn't worry about the Blue Eagles' chances this season. The Blue Eagles will also be defined by how big the supporting cast step up and back-up JC Intal.
Last Saturday's game between the Blue Eagles and the Bulldogs was anything but a game of spurts and runs. It was surprising to see that the Blue Eagles fell behind to the NU Bulldogs early in the first quarter. They managed to get back by the end of the half, but lost to NU at the third. The Blue and White conducted a run highlighted by an Intal slamdunk which was enough to survive the Bulldogs' late game rally. Surprisingly, in a game which many though would turn out as a lopsided game ("NU lang yan!" as Rocky would even claim. After all, we defeated them by 33 points last year), turned out to be a close game.
It was a game of opening day jitters and it was evident with how the Blue Eagles turned the ball over a couple of times (21 turnovers as against 17 turnovers by NU), the most notable was Ford Arao's inbound play in the dying seconds of the third quarter after an NU fastbreak, which the Bulldogs stole again and converted to put them up by one point, 56-57. NU's airball treys and Flor's airball freethrows were something also worth noticing (hehe).
Macky Escalona's ala-hoy shots and his treys weren't there, but he compensated these with timely passes inside the lane to Doug Kramer inside the paint. Also, another worth noticing was Ateneo's infinite hustle, led by fisherman Escalona (who must have caught a lot of fish on the floor). In one of the plays Macky Escalona tapped the ball off an NU player, and chased the ball from going out of bounds. JC Intal chased the loose ball from going out of the base line and passed it to streaking Yuri Escueta who again passed to Hussaini en route to a three-point play.
Rabeh Al-Hussaini, bucking on Japeth's absence, was easily shoved inside the paint but his hardwork to grab the rebound was rewarded with free throws thanks to NU's penalty situation. However, his style of play is really different from Japeth's. How I wish he could dunk the ball more or swat more shots next time. Meanwhile each of Jai Reyes' treys were very timely. His three point bombs could lift the Ateneo faithful from their seats. However, he was well defended in the second half as the Bulldogs must have respected Jai's outside shooting.
It was a well-balanced attack, with Ateneo's veterans leading the scoring spree, plus Jai Reyes, Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Yuri Escueta. The others, I believe should step-up more in the next games: Ford Arao, Chris Tiu, Johann Uichico, Zion Laterre, Eric Salamat (who only attempted twice), Johann Uichico, and Ken Barracoso (who only played 3 minutes).
Defense should be another point to ponder for the Eagles, especially during the home-stretch. If NU's main man Edwin Asoro made his free throws in the last 2-3 minutes, the game could have been closer, worse, the Eagles could have lost the game. Their defense should be consistent and hard enough not to give NU a chance for a scoring run.
If this will be the way Ateneo plays in the ongoing UAAP tourney, they will encounter big trouble ahead. This, considering that they "only" played against NU. Hopefully they'll learn from their mistakes, spread out the scoring better, play better defense, and assert themselves enough to give UE a scare. And oh, I do hope that Ateneo's alma-mater song would be played better and faster next time. Ugh.
One Big Fight! Go Ateneo!
Go Purefoods! I'm not shouting One Big Fight to Red Bull!
Enough about the PBA. Let's talk about the Blue Eagles and their performance in the UAAP against the NU Bulldogs. Promise. No more talks about Ginebra. Go Purefoods!
***
This year's UAAP basketball season is exceptional with De La Salle University serving its one year suspension. On their absence the recruitment market was shaken, not only for basketball but also in other sports as well. Even before the UAAP started, the University of the East Warriors were labeled as favorites for this season, followed by the Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles, and the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, plus another team (which I'm betting will be the scary University of the Philippines Maroons! OMG Maroons!). The Warriors, who won their last championship back in 1985 with Allan Caidic and Jerry Codinera, are parading most of their players in their line-up last year, plus a number of "rookies" (or transferees, Pumaren style).
The Ateneo Blue Eagles meanwhile lost star point-guard LA Tenorio, Magnum Membrere, and Badjie del Rosario (must I say finally? hehe) to eligibility, plus Japeth Aguilar who's trying his luck in the US NCAA schools. Returning are Chris Tiu (with his elbow) from his Junior Term Abroad (JTA), Yuri Escueta and Johann Uichico from "Team Glory Be". Team-A returnees include veterans JC Intal, Doug Kramer, and Macky Escalona, plus Martin Quimson, Ford Arao (from an ACL injury he sustained last season), Ken Barracoso, Zion Laterre, and sophomores Jai Reyes and Rabeh Al-Hussaini. Completing the cast are rookies Eric Salamat, a former Staglet, and Eman Monfort from Ateneo de Iloilo.
From the looks of it, whether he likes it or not, this Blue Eagles team is JC Intal's team. Compared to the 2002 Champions Blue Eagles, one can see that other than JC Intal, there isn't a consistent scorer or someone who can pick up the scoring load (or a "super-star"). Back in 2002, the offense is spread to either Enrico Villanueva, Rich Alvarez, Wesley Gonzales, Larry Fonacier, or LA Tenorio. I believe that this team will go where JC Intal goes. UBelt.com even believes that JC Intal may be awarded the Most Valuable Player at the end of the season, but the season has barely started anyway. If Japeth didn't leave for the US, I wouldn't worry about the Blue Eagles' chances this season. The Blue Eagles will also be defined by how big the supporting cast step up and back-up JC Intal.
Last Saturday's game between the Blue Eagles and the Bulldogs was anything but a game of spurts and runs. It was surprising to see that the Blue Eagles fell behind to the NU Bulldogs early in the first quarter. They managed to get back by the end of the half, but lost to NU at the third. The Blue and White conducted a run highlighted by an Intal slamdunk which was enough to survive the Bulldogs' late game rally. Surprisingly, in a game which many though would turn out as a lopsided game ("NU lang yan!" as Rocky would even claim. After all, we defeated them by 33 points last year), turned out to be a close game.
It was a game of opening day jitters and it was evident with how the Blue Eagles turned the ball over a couple of times (21 turnovers as against 17 turnovers by NU), the most notable was Ford Arao's inbound play in the dying seconds of the third quarter after an NU fastbreak, which the Bulldogs stole again and converted to put them up by one point, 56-57. NU's airball treys and Flor's airball freethrows were something also worth noticing (hehe).
Macky Escalona's ala-hoy shots and his treys weren't there, but he compensated these with timely passes inside the lane to Doug Kramer inside the paint. Also, another worth noticing was Ateneo's infinite hustle, led by fisherman Escalona (who must have caught a lot of fish on the floor). In one of the plays Macky Escalona tapped the ball off an NU player, and chased the ball from going out of bounds. JC Intal chased the loose ball from going out of the base line and passed it to streaking Yuri Escueta who again passed to Hussaini en route to a three-point play.
Rabeh Al-Hussaini, bucking on Japeth's absence, was easily shoved inside the paint but his hardwork to grab the rebound was rewarded with free throws thanks to NU's penalty situation. However, his style of play is really different from Japeth's. How I wish he could dunk the ball more or swat more shots next time. Meanwhile each of Jai Reyes' treys were very timely. His three point bombs could lift the Ateneo faithful from their seats. However, he was well defended in the second half as the Bulldogs must have respected Jai's outside shooting.
It was a well-balanced attack, with Ateneo's veterans leading the scoring spree, plus Jai Reyes, Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Yuri Escueta. The others, I believe should step-up more in the next games: Ford Arao, Chris Tiu, Johann Uichico, Zion Laterre, Eric Salamat (who only attempted twice), Johann Uichico, and Ken Barracoso (who only played 3 minutes).
Defense should be another point to ponder for the Eagles, especially during the home-stretch. If NU's main man Edwin Asoro made his free throws in the last 2-3 minutes, the game could have been closer, worse, the Eagles could have lost the game. Their defense should be consistent and hard enough not to give NU a chance for a scoring run.
If this will be the way Ateneo plays in the ongoing UAAP tourney, they will encounter big trouble ahead. This, considering that they "only" played against NU. Hopefully they'll learn from their mistakes, spread out the scoring better, play better defense, and assert themselves enough to give UE a scare. And oh, I do hope that Ateneo's alma-mater song would be played better and faster next time. Ugh.
One Big Fight! Go Ateneo!
Go Purefoods! I'm not shouting One Big Fight to Red Bull!
Sunday, July 09, 2006
There is a reason he is called "The Rock"...
First, it was PBA legend Phillip Cesar. I didn't see that particular episode, so no comment about that (any help, Charlo?). But then, ABC5's Shall We Dance came up with this:
Nope, your eyes are not fooling you and neither are you drunk (or high--whichever applies more often in your case). That is Asi Taulava. Doin' the swing.
Mismo!
I get the feeling Noli Eala's responsible for this, somehow...
Seeing that I have no real authority to comment on his performance myself--because I'm sure there is no way in heck that I could do any better than Asi, haha--let's just hope someone puts this on YouTube some time soon.
Anyway, the judges were über-nice to Asi. They all gave him 8s and a lot of "he looked real cute on the dance floor" remarks. Apparently, TV viewers felt the same way, as Asi and his partner (sorry, ma'am, I was too distracted by the dancing Asi phenomenon to catch your name) now find their way to next week's show, thanks to text votes (and yeah, the fact that Regine Tolentino thinks that Asi's dimples are cute). I guess ABC5 is right in saying "Astig maging iba" (I'm not even sure if that's still their station catch-phrase).
Hwooh.
By the way, the pics are © 2006 Jason Marges. Haha. It was a spur-of-the-moment idea to post about this, so pardon the poor picture quality (not that it would have mattered if I had, in fact, planned for this beforehand... man, I talk too much).
Nope, your eyes are not fooling you and neither are you drunk (or high--whichever applies more often in your case). That is Asi Taulava. Doin' the swing.
Mismo! 
I get the feeling Noli Eala's responsible for this, somehow...
Seeing that I have no real authority to comment on his performance myself--because I'm sure there is no way in heck that I could do any better than Asi, haha--let's just hope someone puts this on YouTube some time soon.
Anyway, the judges were über-nice to Asi. They all gave him 8s and a lot of "he looked real cute on the dance floor" remarks. Apparently, TV viewers felt the same way, as Asi and his partner (sorry, ma'am, I was too distracted by the dancing Asi phenomenon to catch your name) now find their way to next week's show, thanks to text votes (and yeah, the fact that Regine Tolentino thinks that Asi's dimples are cute). I guess ABC5 is right in saying "Astig maging iba" (I'm not even sure if that's still their station catch-phrase).
Hwooh.
By the way, the pics are © 2006 Jason Marges. Haha. It was a spur-of-the-moment idea to post about this, so pardon the poor picture quality (not that it would have mattered if I had, in fact, planned for this beforehand... man, I talk too much).
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Toronto, Portland, and Chicago go nuts
And you thought the NBA was done with all of the craziness during the draft...
Last summer the biggest deals we witnessed were the Eddy Curry fiasco with Chicago trading him to the Knicks (it's almost tradition every year Thomas does something that leaves the world scratching their heads) and the Larry Hughes deal with Cleveland to play with LeBron. Sure, those were big-name deals, but nothing fantastic.
It seemed the Colangelo was going to set the tone for this crazy off-season by making two trades within the first two weeks after the finals - getting rid of Araujo to get Humphries, and (perhaps the better deal of the two) getting Rasho for Bonner.
Then... madness.
The draft was crazy as Eumir pointed out in the previous post. Fifteen trades occured that night, with Portland truly Blazing the way being involved in six of them. It's a bit amazing how they were willing to take on four rookies (although it seems likely that Freeland will stay in Europe). Also amazing is how Randy Foye has gone through three teams this early in his career. And don't forget about the unofficial-as-of-yet trade of Rudy Gay + Stro Swift for Shane Battier.
Two days later, surprise, surprise - Colangelo isn't done yet. He trades Charlie Villanueva for TJ Ford. Then - hold on to your horses - Portland picks upTsi Stk Shtk Tskishvili! OMG.
Ben Wallace goes to Chicago and now the Bulls seem to want to trade Chandler for PJ Brown and JR Smith (this trade doesn't make complete sense for Chicago although it kinda works). Przybilla turns down the Pistons and stays with the Blazers(!!!) which in turn opens the door for Nazr Mohammed to get good minutes while still getting a chance at a title in Mo Town. Peja agrees to go to New Orleans, Radman goes to the Lakers (damn him again) then Tim Thomas leaves the Suns to replace Vladi with the Clippers. Nene signs for an insane 60M over six years despite coming off the bench for his entire career and just coming from an ACL injury last year, which puts Kenyon Martin and his 70M knees of glass on the trading block.
Players are getting dealt and/or overpaid left and right. The looks of entire teams are changing. It's only the first week of free agent negotiations.
After all of that insanity, what can I, as a Minnesota Timberwolves fan, look forward to? The improbable prospect of Paul Shirley making it to the Wolves final roster after this year's summer league. *sigh*
Go Foye!
Go Wolves!
True Blue, baby. (In more ways than one. OBG. Haha.)
___________
Images of Randy Foye and Ben Wallace: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2006 NBAE (Photo by Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images)
Last summer the biggest deals we witnessed were the Eddy Curry fiasco with Chicago trading him to the Knicks (it's almost tradition every year Thomas does something that leaves the world scratching their heads) and the Larry Hughes deal with Cleveland to play with LeBron. Sure, those were big-name deals, but nothing fantastic.
It seemed the Colangelo was going to set the tone for this crazy off-season by making two trades within the first two weeks after the finals - getting rid of Araujo to get Humphries, and (perhaps the better deal of the two) getting Rasho for Bonner.
Then... madness.
The draft was crazy as Eumir pointed out in the previous post. Fifteen trades occured that night, with Portland truly Blazing the way being involved in six of them. It's a bit amazing how they were willing to take on four rookies (although it seems likely that Freeland will stay in Europe). Also amazing is how Randy Foye has gone through three teams this early in his career. And don't forget about the unofficial-as-of-yet trade of Rudy Gay + Stro Swift for Shane Battier.Two days later, surprise, surprise - Colangelo isn't done yet. He trades Charlie Villanueva for TJ Ford. Then - hold on to your horses - Portland picks up
Ben Wallace goes to Chicago and now the Bulls seem to want to trade Chandler for PJ Brown and JR Smith (this trade doesn't make complete sense for Chicago although it kinda works). Przybilla turns down the Pistons and stays with the Blazers(!!!) which in turn opens the door for Nazr Mohammed to get good minutes while still getting a chance at a title in Mo Town. Peja agrees to go to New Orleans, Radman goes to the Lakers (damn him again) then Tim Thomas leaves the Suns to replace Vladi with the Clippers. Nene signs for an insane 60M over six years despite coming off the bench for his entire career and just coming from an ACL injury last year, which puts Kenyon Martin and his 70M knees of glass on the trading block.Players are getting dealt and/or overpaid left and right. The looks of entire teams are changing. It's only the first week of free agent negotiations.
After all of that insanity, what can I, as a Minnesota Timberwolves fan, look forward to? The improbable prospect of Paul Shirley making it to the Wolves final roster after this year's summer league. *sigh*Go Foye!
Go Wolves!
True Blue, baby. (In more ways than one. OBG. Haha.)
___________
Images of Randy Foye and Ben Wallace: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2006 NBAE (Photo by Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images)
