UAAP Season 76 Men's Basketball Rosters

Adamson University Soaring Falcons

Gian Lloyd Abrigo
Michael Angelo Agustin
Matthew Bernabe
John Rodney Brondial
Eric Matthew Cabigas
Roider Ross Cabrera
Jericho Xavier Cruz
Jerome Garcia
Alejandro Antonio Inigo
Ar-raouf Julkipli
Ryan Christopher Monteclaro
Dawn Hnyric Ochea
Harry Petilos
Jansen Rios
Ingrid Sewa
Celedonio Trollano, Jr.



Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles

Antonio Rafael Asistio
Francesco Wilfredo Asuncion
Gideon Ira Babilonia
Ryan Clarence Buenafe
Gwyne Matthew Capacio
Juan Nicolas Elorde
Ivan Angelo Enriquez
John Paul Erram
Frank Golla, Jr.
Isaac Jules Lim
Peter Amiel Murphy
Chirstopher Elijah Newsome
Von Rolfe Pessumal
Kiefer Isaac Ravena
Juan Miguel Tiongson
Manuel Vicente Tolentino


De La Salle University Green Archers

Robert Lee Bolick, Jr.
Luis Alfonso dela Paz
Kirell Brahndon Montalbo
Jason Andre Perkins
Luis Alfonso Revilla
Gabriel Reyes
Matthew David Salem
Jarelan Tampus
Jeron Alvin Teng
Thomas Christopher Torres
Norberto Brian Torres
Arnold Raymund Van Opstal
Almond Vosotros

Far Eastern University Tamaraws

Joshua Dave Aguilon
Rey Mark Belo
Carl Bryan Cruz
Jeson Delfinado
Augus Vince Denila
Ron Marvis Dennison
Ryan Roose Garcia
Anthony Hargrove, Jr.
Alejandra Antonio Inigo, Jr.
Raymar Jose
Joel Christian Lee Yu
Jovanie Luz, Jr.
Gryann Mendoza
Roger Ray Pogoy
Terrence Bill Romeo
Christian Sentcheu
Cris Michael Tolomia



National University Bulldogs

Rodolfo Alejandro
Joshua Angelo Alolino
Mark Joel de Guzman
Alfred Dong Aroga
Nico Paolo Javelona
Joeffrey Javillonar
Glenn Khobuntin
Cederick Labing-isa
Emmanuel Mbe
Kyle Drexler Neypes
Bobby Ray Parks
Tristan Perez
William Maurice Porter
Robin Rono
Jeth Troy Rosario
Lee Dennice Villamor

University of the East Red Warriors

Dan Irvin Alberto
Lord Howier Casajeros
Jairold Fores
Pedrito Galanza, Jr.
Leo Guion
Ivan Jeric Hernandez
Christopher Joyce Javier
Gino Jumao-as
Charles Mammie
John Michael Noble
Ralf Olivares
Luis Adrian Vinci Pujante
Adrian Santos
Shej Roi Sumang
Jhon Rey Sumido

University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons

Agustin Amar, Jr.
Renzar Asilum
Matthew Ball
Andres Paul Desiderio
Joseph Ray Gallarza
Moriah Joel Gingerich
Andrew Michael Harris
Kyles Lao
Jason Ligad
Samuel Joseph Marata
Andre Alonzo Paras
Martin Javier Pascual
Miguel Antonio Reyes
Raul Soyud
Janus Kyle Suarez
Julius Paul Wong


University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers

Karim Abdul
Clark Daniel Bautista
Eduardo Daquioag, Jr.
Jeepy Faundo
Kevin Ferrer
Roberto Hainga
Kent Jefferson Lao
Kim Kaizen Lo
Jan Cornelius Macasaet
Edcor Marata, Jr.
Aljon Mariano
Paulo Lorenzo Pe
Sheak Sheriff, Jr.
Brian James So
Robin Allan Tan
Jeric Allen Teng

JMP

The Red Army is Ready

Lets #RoarForFour! JMP

Who's In, Who's Out

 Image courtesy of gmanews.tv JMP

Moving On - Letran Knights Preview

Here is the preview of the newly-tooled Letran Knights via spin.ph : 

Looking at the roster of the Knights, they looked like they can still contend with another championship. I just don't know where they would go during crucial moments of the game since Kevin Alas left. JMP

When Goodbye Means Hello

"Every goodbye makes the next hello closer."

I have felt the heartbreak of goodbye too many times to count. Goodbye is a painful word. It solely means that you're putting an end on something. Its an end where you will no longer see a person, an event, a phenomenon or anything in context. Its really hard to say those words. Especially when those words is for someone you love.

Its really hard to put an irony between those words and other aspects like sports. But to make it more simpler, it would just be a simple as saying goodbye to summer and saying hello to the season itself. Yes, for me, I will miss the summer tourney but I am so excited about the upcoming basketball season. Its hard to say goodbye to something that you used to do almost everyday. Somewhere you used to go each day. Someone who you used to see all day. Its really funny but hard when I say that how lucky I am to know something in this content. It feels like I am part of something bigger than me. I must admit that going to the summer games somewhat makes me invests in something I really can't control like feelings and emotions. So that's why its really hard to say goodbye.

But for all good, goodbye also means hello. Hello to a new and fresh start. A clean slate. An empty glass. You will have the opportunity to do all the things you want anew. Just like in sports, you will have a clean season in front of you. A 0-0 win-loss column. Where everybody is equal. Where everybody is at the number 1 spot of the standings.

Saying goodbye doesn't merely means sad. Saying goodbye may lead you to a new beginning with a great end. In sports context, you will have a clean slate and before you know it, you will be champions in your own right. Then, you will say to yourself - "Thank God I said goodbye." JMP

College Prospects for 2014

The UAAP Season 76 and the NCAA Season 89 haven't started at all but as early as now, there are some high school seniors that are already making noise. Alumni, fans, and mirons are excited to see where these future college stars would play.

Arvin Dave Tolentino (SBC)

Arguably, the best high school player in the land today, Arvin Tolentino will be topping the headlines of the future prospects when 2014 comes. He is a 6'4 versatile power forward who can do anything he asked to do. He is already college-material in talent and in built. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : San Beda, Ateneo, La Salle

Javee Mocon (SBC)

(Picture courtesy of UBL League)

Javee Mocon might even surpass the level of the talent of Arvin Tolentino, if he chooses wisely where to go to college. He compliments Tolentino on the offensive end of the Red Cubs offense and will be the more bruiser and physical of the two. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : San Beda, Ateneo

Thirdy Ravena (ADMU) 

Another Ravena is coming into the collegiate ranks by next year. Kiefer's younger brother, Thirdy will be one of the top prospects of 2014. He play-a-like his brother, tough in the inside and does have a respectable outside shot. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : Ateneo

Michael Calisaan (SSC-R)

Maybe the darkhorse of this next year's rookie batch, Michael Calisaan is gaining the interest of the patrons of Katipunan. He is as tall as Tolentino and Mocon, but I can say that the two is just a level above Calisaan. He is a versatile player that can play the 3, 4 and 5 positions. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : Ateneo

Hubert Cani (NU)

(Picture courtesy of UBL League)

One of the underrated players on this batch, Hubert Cani seems to be the one of the prolific scorers in the high school division. He is kind of a James Yap mold that can shoot from the outside and can dribble-penetrate. His only downfall is his defense. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : None yet

Jay Javelosa (Reedley)

After opting out with the Ateneo Blue Eaglets program, Jay Javelosa went to Reedley International School to prioritize on his studies. But he never stopped playing competitive basketball. He played for our national team for the 2012 Fiba Asia Youth Championships. 

Front-runners for his recruitment : Ateneo, La Salle

We all know that there's nothing ever official until the player enrolls. JMP

Top 10 Birthday Wishlist

In 4 days, I will be 29. How I wish my life is different right now but I don't complain. Life moves on and besides, the world doesn't stop for me. Anyways, here's my top ten birthday wishlist. I'm just wishful thinking that someone or anyone will buy me these :

1. Chelsea FC Home Kit 2013/14 - OMG. I really love this football jersey. Its colors seems to be like of the Philippine Azkals, making me wanting it more. For those who are generous enough, they are available in all Adidas branches.

2. Columbia Urbaneer Watch - My current watch needs to retire. Asap. It has rust already and it looks like a trash. Really. How I wish I can afford this luxurious watch. I love you and I will see you soon, Columbia!

3. Nike Elite Socks - I know that shoes will be a long shot so I would settle for the socks. Since my significant other is into jogging and running, I promise myself to do the same deed.

4. WIP Caps - I'm not really into hats but I want it to be in. These caps are seriously one of the famous brand in the country yet affordable.

5. Oasis Acoustic CD Volume VI - Another OMG or must haves for me. I really love listening to Oasis even dating back when I was 8 years old.

6. FMCC Clothing - I really idolizes the King of Philippine Rap, that I even buy his clothing line. Any design would do. Long Live, Kiko!

7. San Beda Jersey - My dream to have a San Beda jersey could be days away. Hahaha! Just a wishful thinking!

8. NCAA Season 89 Passes -  If someone knows where to get a pass throughout the whole season of NCAA Season 89, please let me know. I'm not actually wishing for the passes itself, the information where to get them will do.

9. Fiba Asia 2013 Ticket/s - I would really love to go to one of the games of our Gilas Pilipinas. A ticket against China or Iran will be nice. Thanks in advance!

10. Nike Premier League Ball - I've stopped collecting soccer balls because the last one was a gift from my ex so I thought that it will be kind of a bad luck. Anyways, I now regret that I had stop collecting them so this year, I vow to earn and collect them as many as I can.

But beside the all the material things, all I want for my birthday is peace and forgiveness. Maybe some of you not know what happened in the recent months, but all I want is peace of mind and forgiveness to all I have hurt before. If I can achieve that, I will live a happy man.

So, there you go. Happy shopping everyone! :) JMP

Pull-out?

I found this picture via UAAP-NCAA Nemes on Facebook.

I know this is a little overdue but to have a logic about, this picture says it all. You don't pull out just because you do have 9 nice players. You gotta play the game.  As long as it is within the rules and regulations of the game, you gotta play it. You got to respect the game. Enough said. JMP

Roar For Four - San Beda Red Lions Preview

(Video courtesy of spin.ph)

Here's the video preview of the San Beda College Red Lions for the upcoming NCAA Season 89. JMP

NCAA Season 89 Men's Basketball Rosters

Here are the rosters for each team for the NCAA Season 89 Men's Basketball Tournament : 

Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates

Head Coach : Bonnie Tan

1)  Alanes, Shaquille Oswald M.
2)  Ambohot, Joseph R.
3)  Azores, John Arwin M.
4)  Baltazar, Wilson S.
5)  Francisco, Mark Anthony D.
6)  Garcia, Daniel H.
7)  Evangelista, Vergel P.
8)  Ko, Shane Albert C.
9)  Lacastesantos, Joemari Y.
10) Lesmoras, Tirso Jr., B.
11) Mbomiko Issah, Aziz Faycal
12) Mendoza, Andrei C.
13) Soliman, Paul John Q.
14) Taladua, Jeremiah M.
15) Zamora, Dexter Wilbur T.

San Beda College Red Lions

Head Coach : Teodorico Fernandez III

1)  Abarcar, Francis Johnson E.
2)  Abatayo, Van Adam P.
3)  Adeogun, Olaide J.
4)  Amer, Baser C.
5)  Bonsubre, Jr., Antonio R.
6)  De La Cruz, Arthur A.
7)  De La Rosa, Rome Adler D.
8)  Koga, Ryusei G.
9)  Ludovice, John Mark Yvan B.
10) Mendoza, Jaypee B.
11) Pascual, Kyle N.
12) Sara, Roldan V.
13) Semerad, Anthony Paul D.
14) Semerad, David John D.
15) Villaruz, Ritchie Jon B.

Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers

Head Coach : Vergel Meneses

1)  Abanto, Nick Wilson C.
2)  Balagtas, Marco Paulo M.
3)  Benavides, Schever Anthony G.
4)  Cortez, Robertzone VII G.
5)  Dela Paz, Cris Jordan C.
6)  Diego, Harley Frank V.
7)  Gozum, Martin Joseph L.
8)  Grospe, John Ervin P.
9)  Juanico, Jerome E.
10) Lasquety, Gio Nicolo E.
11) Mabulac, Michael R.
12) Paniamogan, Philip Criszam J.
13) Pontejos, John Paolo B.
14) Salaveria, Juan Edilfierto G.
15) Sanchez, Dave Richard M.

Arellano University Chiefs

Head Coach : Enrico Banal

1)  Agovida, Keith Jasper M.
2)  Bangga, Nichole John B.
3)  Cadavis, Julius Salvador T.
4)  Caperal, Prince Renmer B.
5)  Enriquez, Allen S.
6)  Forrester, James Patrick
7)  Gumaru, Donald G.
8)  Hernandez, Levi M.
9)  Jalalon, Jiovani N.
10) Malanday, Larry John II F.
11) Margallo, Alwin John F.
12) Nicholls, Zachary James C.
13) Pinto, Nard John V.
14) Salcedo, Ralph Chrysler A.
15) Serjue, Adam Jacob V.

Mapua Institute of Technology Cardinals

Head Coach : Fortunato Co

1)  Biteng, Exeqiel A.
2)  Brana, Mark Jayson C.
3)  Cantos, Jeson Rey J.
4)  Eriobu Jr., Joseph Emmanuel A.
5)  Estrella, Andrew G.
6)  Gabo, Hesed Leo Jose P.
7)  Gonzalez, Rodney M.
8)  Guzman, Jervin B.
9)  Ighalo, Kenneth Kim P.
10) Isit, Carlos J.
11) Layug, Raphael Joesh P.
12) Magsigay, Darrel Dave A.
13) Magtoto, Darwin V.
14) Saitanan, Jessie C.
15) Sumampong, Jerick H.

(Picture courtesy of Davyopipamd13)

Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights

Head Coach : Caloy Garcia

1)  Almazan, Raymond C.
2)  Belorio, Jonathan U.
3)  Buenaflor, Kevin T.
4)  Castro, Fidel Albert F.
5)  Cruz, Mark L.
6)  Dysam, Franz Dionne G.
7)  Gabawan, Jamil Joseph M.
8)  Luib, McJour B.
9)  Nambatac, Rey Benedict C.
10) Olotu, Ayodele Edward B.
11) Po, Jebson Carl V.
12) Publico Jr., Reynaldo J.
13) Racal, Kevin Kent R.
14) Ruaya, Reneford M.
15) Tambeling, John Von Jovi L.

San Sebastian College Recoletos-Stags

Head Coach : Topex Robinson

1)  Aquino, Eulo Ryan A.
2)  Balid, Rhoniel V.
3)  Balucanag, Bobby J.
4)  De Vera, Leodaniel D.
5)  Dela Cruz, Jovit D.
6)  Guinto, Bradwyn M.
7)  Gusi, Joseph Raffy P.
8)  Magno, Mark Philip J.
9)  Ortuoste, John Kervin P.
10) Padilla, Carl Angelo M.
11) Perez, Jaymar G.
12) Rebollos Jr., Paulino A.
13) Tano, Ranimark V.
14) Trinidad, Mark Anthony G.
15) Vergara, Guiseppe Vitorio O.

Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals

Head Coach : Gerry Esplana

1)  Arquero, Jack Lord S.
2)  Castro, Sherwin D.
3)  Happi Noube, Cedric Benjamin
4)  Hassan, Janner M.
5)  Hiole Manga, Jean Jacques
6)  Jamon, Jan Niccolo Q.
7)  King, Igee Bobbie P.
8)  Mejos, Christ Fernan M.
9)  Monteclaro, John Dominique M.
10) Morada, Jose Remy II B.
11) Munsayac, Francis John T.
12) Onwubere, Sidney Nelson B.
13) Paguia, Elyzar P.
14) Saludo, Edsel Roy M.
15) Tayongtong, John Marco D.

DLS-College of Saint Benilde Blazers

Head Coach : Gabby Velasco

1)  Argamino, RJ Edward M.
2)  Bartolo, Roberto Jr., D.
3)  Carlos, Alison Brandon P.
4)  De Guzman, Jericho Louie C.
5)  Deles, Ralph Jeffrey S.
6)  Garcia, Dexter M.
7)  Grey, Jonathan M.
8)  Jonson, Travis Jerome M.
9)  Mercado, Jose Lorenzo A.
10) Nayve, Raphael Romeo D.
11) Ongteco, Jeffrey Ryan G.
12) Romero, Mark Andrei E.
13) Saavedra, Jose Alfonso
14) Sinco, Luis Antonio Miguel K.
15) Taha, Juan Paolo S.

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas

Head Coach : Aric del Rosario

1)  Alano, Justine Matthew M.
2)  Arboleda, Harold Miguel D.
3)  Babayemi, Adefemi Ariyo
4)  Baloria, Juneric D.
5)  Bantayan Jr., Nestor D.
6)  Bitoy, Mark Dave G.
7)  Dizon, Gerald L.
8)  Elopre, Chrisper C.
9)  Jolangcob, Joel C.
10) Lucente, Kervin V.
11) Oliveria, Kevin G.
12) Omorogbe, Nosa Nicholas
13) Paulino, Anthony Mari M.
14) Thompson, Earl Scottie C.
15) Ylagan, John Genmar L.

Insights : No Kevin Alas for Letran. No Ian Sanggalang for the Stags. They both failed to have a comeback.

Surprises : AJ Serjue for the Chiefs - he hasn't played all summer long. Pretty surprised he is included in the Chiefs' roster. So as Femi Babayemi. NCAA Season 89 gonna be exciting.

Based on the lineups submitted, I'm sticking with my previous predictions for the NCAA tourney. JMP

First Love

For those who have known me for a decade, you know that basketball isn't my first sport growing up. Probably, if you're not my batchmate in high school at San Beda, you don't know that football is my sport back then.

(Emperador Stadium at McKinley Hill)

Yesterday, I found myself in the grounds of Emperador Stadium, the home of our country's first organized league at McKinley Hill in Taguig City. I was late for the game of Manila All-Japan FC and Laos FC. The next game was between Agila FC and Team Socceroo FC.  I can't help but reminisce about my high school days at our football field then. The smell of the grass (although, Emperador Stadium uses artificial turf), the goal posts, the spike shoes, the long socks, the crowd - I suddenly remembered them all. 

I joined San Beda football team not because I like the sport. No. I joined because I'm really not into CAT (Cadet Army Training) and if you're part of any varsity team, you are not required to attend CAT classes anymore. So, gladly, our coach, Jose Ariston Caslib (yes, the former National coach who brought Phil and James Younghusband in the country) easily accepted me. (Back then, football is just a ran-off sport and not that popular unlike now) 

Every after classes, I would go straight to our football field and practice. At first, I really don't have the initial skills to be a footballer. I'm not agile and fast enough to be at a phase of a football game. But I learned the crop, and with many days of practice, I began liking the sport. Especially, when we were given uniforms. We feel excited and we feel that we have a little swag in our heads. I even remembered playing against former Azkals captain Aly Borromeo when he was still with La Salle Greenhills. 

Then, I really got hooked up. I started watching football games on TV. There were no UFL yet so the European League is the only choice. I remember that first football game I watched on TV. It was a replay of Chelsea - Manchester United match. Chelsea FC won that game and Frank Lampard emerged as the man of the match. From then, I started idolizing Chelsea and Frank Lampard as my football hero.Years have passed by and I even turned into a football addict. I even collected football jerseys of different football clubs. 

During my 'field trip' at Emperador Stadium, I remember my first love. I still remember everything about it. I can still feel the romance. As many people say "there's no love like the first". JMP

A Knight Comeback?

With a couple of days remaining before the NCAA Season 89 officially starts, Kevin Alas shares his views via twitter. His tweet is kind of a intriguing.

Will we see a comeback of Letran's prolific scorer? Will we see him in a Letran jersey again? All of that remains questions until June 22. JMP

Drawing a Line Between La Salle and Petron

Recent developments in the La Salle Camp made nothing but draw comparisons on PBA ballclub Petron Blaze Boosters.

Lets dissect every single aspect of the rumor.

(pictures courtesy of Nuki Sabio)

Coaching Staff : Its pretty similar due on the fact that the 'axed' chief tactician of the Green Archers, Gee Abanilla is Head Coach Olsen Racela's deputy. They may both have shared same situations like having rumors of getting fired etc. They also shared the burden and pressure on steering their respective teams to no less than a championship.

Players : We all know that La Salle and Petron share the same compliments that they are really strong teams, well at least on paper. There will be no kind of argurment if some say that they both are complete and talented teams. They can even play upto 10th and 11th player rotation without suffering the quality of the players. They both have fruitful and rich history when it comes to winning championships.

Support : Petron ain't Air21. So as La Salle ain't a metropolitan college. They both have big fan-base and a huge support from alumni. Petron is arguably one of the most popular ballclubs in the country, behind Ginebra and San Mig Coffee (formerly Purefoods franchise). On the other hand, La Salle is a member of the biggest sports rivalry in the Philippines, equaling Ateneo.

Benefactor : Danding Cojuangco. A businessman tycoon that is the front man of the San Miguel Corporation and the generous supporter of the Green Archers. Some can't help but wonder, did he really dropped the ax to Gee Abanilla because he was disappointed with La Salle's losses to UE, Ateneo and San Beda? JMP

Lots of Laughs

I found this web conversation of Benjie Paras, Magoo Marjon, Mico Halili, Jai Reyes and Richard del Rosario very funny. I have lot of laughs! But in light of the topic, I would say that La Salle is definitely a title contender for the UAAP crown. But I think Benjie is right. Based on the pre-season, they have just showed that they can't guard Kiefer. So, me too, don't think that they can beat Ateneo, the defending 5-time UAAP Champs. To sum it up, YES, they can be a contender and NO, they will not win the UAAP title this year. JMP

10 Things We've Learned This Summer

Every year, before their major tournaments, we all see college teams play in the Filoil Premier Cup, the most prestigious summer tourney in the country, and witnessed what they are really made of.

Here's a list of what we have seen throughout the summer :

1. Roi Sumang is peaking to be the best PG in the UAAP:

In the course and especially in the end of the summer tourney, Roi Sumang  proved that every single criticism he had taken before were all wrong. Before the tournament started, he said in an interview "Ayaw na naming matalo. Sawang sawa na ako". And thus, he proved it with a summer title tucked on his belt before UAAP kicks off. He's one of the reasons why the UE Red Warriors are making noise leading to UAAP season, a noise many UE faithfuls missed since the time of James Yap, Paul Lee, Elmer Espiritu etc.

But we also saw the weakness in Sumang's game. Taller defenders like Bobby Ray Parks made him out of control of his usual game. He was forcing body contacts to fish for a foul (refs now won't buy for it) and he  was taking ill-advised shots during the finals when the two-time UAAP MVP Parks defended him. Nonetheless, he has played through that and won UE's second summer title since 2007. I think as long as he is healthy and running and manning the PG chores, UE will be a legit contender for the UAAP crown.

2.  UST misses Jeric Fortuna: 

If only Jeric Fortuna has a year of eligibililty left, the UST Growling Tigers may have been a lot better than a 4th place finish in the tournament. We all have seen that the space vacated by Fortuna seems to be a black hole for the Tigers. Replacement Ed Daquioag can play but he is not in a way like Jeric. So as combo guard Tata Bautista.

They may have reached the semifinals but truly, its just about luck. If Ateneo never bolted out of the tournament, they may have faced a stronger NU Bulldogs but rather taking on a James Forrester-less AU Chiefs in the knock out QF. Knowing Coach Pido Jarencio, he doesn't play with luck. Better to improve Robin Tan and Jon Sheriff, faster.

3. UAAP Teams doing a San Beda:

UE's Charles Mammie showed how he can single-handedly pushed UE into a legit title contender for the UAAP crown. Every UAAP Teams are now recruiting foreign stand-outs that may boost their campaign in quest of a championship. Adamson now have an Ingrid Sewa from Sierra Lione, UP got a new Fil-Am by the name of Andrew Harris, another Fil-Am Jason Perkins from La Salle, Cameroonian seansation Ben Mbala who now plays for the Green Archers but is still under residency and others. This wasn't the trend in college basketball until San Beda ended their 28 year title drought, thanks to a hulking Nigerian named Sam Ekwe. Since then, reinforcing your team with a foreign recruit seems to be the game plan of every college basketball team in the country. They are also hoping and wishing that in recruiting these kind of ballers, will help them develop and improve their game and competitiveness.

4. UP - Same old story: 

The UP Fighting Maroons are still on rebuilding process. Yes, they still are. They may have won two games out of eight outings in the summer but I don't think they can win one in the UAAP. Okay, one is luck, but two is too much. Anyway, their only bright side is that former Green Archer Sam Marata is now eligible to play and will be the real deal for the Fighting Maroons.

5. Jeron Teng must develop his game:

Jeron Teng's gameplan : drive to the lane, draw some contact, fish for a foul and shoot freethrows. Always. During the summer, Jeron Teng's game seems to be too predictable. Even posting 12.38 points per game, he is now well-scouted by opponents. In the QF game against NCAA Champs San Beda, skipper Rome dela Rosa showed everyone how to defend last year's UAAP ROY.  He may have scored 14 on that game but he was having a bad field day and shooting only under 35% from the 2-point territory. If Jeron Teng wants his Archers to march into the Final Four again or even in the Finals, he must develop his overall game and not just be a one-dimensional scorer.

6.  San Beda is on a league of their own in the NCAA:

Some of you may have an arguement if I say that the Red Lions is still the best team in the NCAA and no other team can threaten them, right? Some of you may say that the AU Chiefs have beaten them last summer, how can they not be a threat? Yes, they have beaten the mighty Lions from Mendiola but I don't think that any team in the NCAA can sustain and maintain beating the Red Lions. Yes, you can beat them once. I won't argue with that. But to be able to sustain on beating them throughout a long tournament, a plain no.

7. Ateneo's new coach must be good:

Even playing with a depleted lineup, Ateneo still managed to be at the number 1 spot after the eliminations of the Filoil Premier Cup. Newly-appointed head coach Bo Perasol's gameplans seems to be a potion of magic. Against La Salle, who does have a complete lineup, the Blue Eagles just blew the game wide open, even leading as much as 25 points in the 3rd quarter and playing Ryan Buenafe for the first time in the tourney and playing him as a power forward, defending the likes of Norbert Torres and Arnold Van Opstal. I'm not into the technicality of the game, but for me I think Bo Perasol can inforce some magic and spells for them to defend their title for an unprecedented 6 times in a row.

8. Life in basketball is not certain:

Even in college basketball, life is still uncertain. You may be the most recruited player today, but in a blink of an eye, you'll be gone searching for another team. Some of us may remember on how talented Ponso Gotladera, Papot Paredes, Mark Tallo, Henry Bentayene, Ian Sanggalang, and others were but where are they now? Some of them are in other teams now, some gave up on playing college ball. That really life is. Sometimes, you're in heaven. But in most cases, college basketball will drag you in the ground. Goodluck, Kib Montalbo.

9. UAAP will be a horse race:

No one is guaranteed of anything in the UAAP. No one can say they are lock in the Final Four or something like that. But there will be a lot of questions like - can UE duplicate their summer performance? Can Ateneo play small ball all tournament long? Can UST find another Jeric Fortuna? Is Alfred Aroga the missing piece for NU?   Can Adamson play with the big boys of the UAAP? Can La Salle overcome all the negative vibes they suffered all summer? Can RR and Terence play together? No one can answer all of that until UAAP opens on June 29.

10. Summer isn't all about beach:

Well, for me summer isn't all about having your skin tanned, or swimming in the shores of Boracay or diving in the strips of Anilao. For me, summer is all about having fun. Whether in the beach, or in my case, in the Filoil Flying V Arena. All you need is a season pass. Then, here's fun, fresh and hot from the oven. JMP

NCAA Season 89 Men's Basketball Schedule - 1st Round

Our stars will shine! RO4R FOR FOUR!
JMP

2013 Filoil Premier Cup Awards

Here are the awardees of the 2013 Filoil Premier Cup : 

Men's Division: 

Mythical Five : 

G Roi Sumang (UE)

G Kiefer Ravena (ADMU)

C Alfred Aroga (NU)

F Bobby Ray Parks (NU)

F Rodney Brondial (Adu)

MVP : Roi Sumang (UE)

Defensive Player : Alfred Aroga (NU)

Juniors Divison : 

F Michael Calisaan (SSC-R)

F Rhanzel Yong (SSC-R)

C Michael Dyke (NU)

C Jayvee Mocon (SBC)

F John Gerdy Alacre (CSJL)

MVP : Jayvee Mocon (SBC)

Defensive Player : Rhanzel Yong (SSC-R)

Here are my personal choices for the Mythical Team of the 2013 Filoil Premier Cup: 

Group A bracket : 

G Baser Amer (SBC)

G Paolo Pontejos (JRU)

G Juneric Baloria (UPSHD)

G John Pinto (AU)

G Sam Marata (UP)

F Jericho Cruz (AdU)

F Bobby Ray Parks (NU)

F James Forrester (AU)

F Rome dela Rosa (SBC)

F Mark Romero (CSB)

F Nosa Omorogbe (UPSHD)

C Rodney Brondial (AdU)

C Ola Adeogun (SBC)

C Alfred Aroga (NU)

C Ingrid Sewa (AdU)

Group B bracket : 

G Roi Sumang (UE)

G Kiefer Ravena (ADMU)

G Mark Cruz (CSJL)

G Jeric Teng (UST)

G Rey Nambatac (CSJL)

F Ralf Olivarez (UE)

F Jan Jamon (EAC)

F Aljon Mariano (UST)

F CJ Perez (SSC-R)

F Jason Perkins (DLSU)

F Kevin Ferrer (UST)

C Raymond Almazan (CSJL)

C Cedric Noube Happi (EAC)

C Norbert Torres (DLSU)

C Charles Mammie (UE)

JMP

UAAP Season 76 Men's Basketball Schedule - 1st Round

Mark the dates! Let the games begin! JMP

Eddie Guerrero Tribute

THERE ARE OTHER SPORTS BESIDES BASKETBALL. Some friends told me that there's a lot of other sports for me to write about. Yeah, there are. I'm not that  knowledgeable about other sports. But here's a start.

I don't know why I always cry whenever I watch this tribute to Eddie Guerrero. I know this is a little overdue but I was browsing the Youtube channel when I bumped in this video, again. In the WWE roster, I didn't even like him at all. The Undertaker is whom I idolize when I was growing up. I remember Eddie as a cheater and funny kind of a wrestler. We all know that professional wrestling is just more of an amateur acting, right? I don't know really why I am so touched with his life story. Maybe Eddie did truly touched many lives including mine in a some way. We will forever miss you. Viva La Rasa Eddie! JMP

2013 Filoil Premier Cup Finals Round Up : Paint the Town Red

The University of the East Red Warriors ended a remarkable summer campaign with a win against the then-undefeated National University Bulldogs in the finals of the Filoil Premier Cup.

Its a big boost for the morale of the boys in red as they whipped the Bobby Ray Parks-led team for the first time since last year's tournament. Lets have a break down of what happened in the finals.

UE Red Warriors : 

Coaching : I know for a fact that coach Boyzie Zamar is a good coach. Well, UE's uprising even started last year when Zamar took over Jerry Codinera's role as the head coach. They have booked a win against Ateneo and a couple of back-to-back wins in last year's UAAP. During the finals game of the Filoil Premier Cup - late in the 2nd half, coach Boyzie is visibly not worried even they are facing a resurgence of NU's attack on offense. UE played a bad quarter in the 3rd canto, thanks to Parks who settled in defending UE's star point guard Roi Sumang. Sumang just can't hit anything when Parks was upfront and defending him. But come to the final quarter where NU's big men already in foul trouble, UE unleashed their attack and they even get the 5th and final foul on Parks. From there, UE controlled the ball game and tucked a title before heading up in the UAAP on June 29.

Roi Sumang : He is arguably the best point guard in the UAAP today. But the humble Sumang said that there is a lot more to improve on his game. He also said in an interview that there are a lot of players who are better than him. What a humble guy. Truly. But I don't believe you sir. Especially when you made Robin Roño crippled on the floor with your wicked crossover.

Charles Mammie : He is the biggest impact for UE not only for this game but for the whole tournament. He backs up on what his shoes say. (Look for the pics courtesy of Rick Olivarez). I will never get tired of saying this and you can quote me - Mammie will have the same impact as Greg Slaughter when he played for Ateneo.


NU Bulldogs : 

Coaching : Coach Eric Altamirano played it good, its just that he lost some important players in the end. What if there's still a Bobby Ray Parks in the end game, things could have been different. He lost Jean Mbe and Parks early in the 4th and played with a disarray Alfred Aroga who committed his 3rd foul as early as the 2nd quarter.

Bobby Ray Parks : He is the lone bright spot in the NU lineup in the finals. He fired for 23 points even he got fouled out early in the final canto. He just can't control himself to commit two unnecessary fouls to disqualify him in the ball game. What if he is still in there on the 4th? Well, things might have been different. But a game is a game. There will be a winner and a loser. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, their mighty 21 undefeated streak is finally over. JMP

Honoring the Team that Changed Basketball Forever - The UTEP Miners

If I will be given the chance to time travel, it would be on a Saturday night of March 19, 1966. At the University of Maryland's Cole Field House. The event? Its the NCAA Championship. You'd probably think whats special with that? Its just a basketball game. But it look closely at it, it is the most important game that ever played.

Ten players in short shorts in a unexplained slow-phased game of 40 minutes of basketball. There's not much drama, not much of spectacular plays, very little passion, you'll see more athletic players in high school than these set of guys.

But take a look of it closely. The crowd is white. So are the referees. So are the officials, the cheerleaders, coaches, almost everybody there is white. But then, history comes into the picture. Five negro players, started for the University of Texas Western Miners. The first in ANY basketball game.

On that era, black people doesn't have civil rights, whatsoever. But the Miners' coach Don Haskins have another thing on mind. He wants to put a stop and a beginning to everything. He wants to end racial discrimination to all "colored" people as if they are television sets, if you know what I mean. He wants to start a new culture in the sport. So in the 1966 NCAA Championship game against Kentucky, he just played his 7 negro players all throughout the game. The powerhouse Kentucky was stunned. They have been beaten by this unknown team until then. Then, the rest they say is history. After that game, black players does have a place in the basketball court. Its not about the color of the skin that is important but the skills and passion for the game is. So I can't help but wonder, why us Filipinos planning to ban foreigners to play in college? Do they need to time travel too? JMP