South of 30

A trip to Taal, Batangas

I suppose it would be appropriate to that the day of my birth falls on the mid-part of the year where the other half begins with Christmas and the other ends with it. As the revelry subsides and we tally the health and financial cost of too much celebrating, it is also the time of introspection and more importantly, gratitude. Whatever has happened before is history. What lies ahead is undiscovered. That leaves us with now and each other. To paraphrase Richard Bach, if you took away space, all we would have is here; if you took away time, all we would have is now.

This being my personal blog, it is inescapable that I express my gratitude to the very existence of life, which will forever be linked to the greatest gift a close-friend bestowed upon me. Having scrawny and in the grips of migraines and flat feet, I was given a path by that "friend" to never be a victim of that kind of frailty again. She showed me that I could turn a weakness into strength, physically and intellectually. The past few years of health and mental issues have brought that memory back to light.

Turning 30 carries more gravity and urgency for me. Since it is a reminder of how we never know how the game of our lives will end. My dear lolo died at 90. My colleague and friend Francis passed away from a car accident at 20 after being friends for about a decade. But the rear view mirror also affords a great view of the winding road behind, and the breathtaking milestones that each of us can claim as a distinct mark we leave behind, no matter what anyone says.

I am truly privileged to have been part of this world, where regular people constantly strive to become extraordinary. If a pushcart vendor can become a professional basketball league MVP and a tricycle driver can win a FIBA podium finish, who am I to complain about the hand I've been dealt? Though my life requires me to be objective, privately I am in awe of these people I have been fortunate to be around, and to call many of them friend. Finding a way to win is the most thrilling accomplishment in human existence.

Oh yes. This is where Sir Chief and Maya got married. 

My life has taken me all over places, and led me to try things that have never been done before. It has taken my hand and guided me to do things I love the most, play dare and become a better lover and more patient and forgiving friend. Believe me, it comes in handy, especially when you've packed on the mileage we do in our life.

I often ask myself what people will say or have the courage to say when this blogger finally pens his last piece. It will definitely be colorful, with a sprinkling of unprintables, for sure. Much of what has happened in almost 30 years will be likely be unearthed when people seek out who was the first to do what. But much has been left in silence after its been done, which is the way it should be. After all, it wasn't done to brag, but to prove that it could be done. So others can break down barriers to do what was previously thought impossible.

Then again, what other people think has not really been that important to me. As I've learned, people project what they want to project, and assume what they want to assume, and are either too obstinate and too embarrassed to correct their views once they have been proven wrong. I've been called many unrepeatable things throughout my life, and for most part, people have been wrong. I don't make it a habit to trumphet the good things I've done; that's between me and God, who keeps a perfect accounting of everything.

So what's left on the south side of 30? A career to mold, a relationship to find, a blog space to continue. And many more avenues to explore. The excitement never ends. JMP

The Year In College Basketball : Archers back on Top; Red Lions achieve 4-Peat

Both the UAAP and NCAA tournaments were filled with surprises and exciting games. Both tournaments produced new heroes in college hoops. Both tournaments became unpredictable until the finish line. 2013 was simply a great year for college basketball.


New kings of the UAAP hailed as Blue Eagles’ 5-year reign comes to an end

Season 76 started with the experts debating on who would be the heavy favorites this season. Most of them believed that six teams had almost equal chances of bagging the coveted UAAP crown this year, namely Ateneo de Manila, National University, University of Sto. Tomas, University of the East, Far Eastern University and De La Salle University.

The Blue Eagles were out to defend their five-year dynasty but lost key players, especially at the post, with the exodus of Greg Slaughter and Nico Salva. Many believed that Ateneo’s chances of taking home a sixth straight title would be slim, but not impossible. After all, it still had the sensational Kiefer Ravena in its fold.

The UST Growling Tigers seemed prime for the championship this season after losing their chance in the finals against Ateneo last year. Besides, they still have a formidable line-up that includes Jeric Teng, Karim Abdul, Aljon Mariano and Kevin Ferrer.

The NU Bulldogs looked solid with an almost intact line-up and a more seasoned Ray Parks. They also have an incredibly deep bench.

The UE Warriors surprised many with their conquest of the pre-season Fil Oil Cup. With the scoring prowess of Roy Sumang and the addition of the bull-strong Charles Mammie, they were certain to give other squads a run for their money.

The FEU Tamaraws are always considered a dangerous team with explosive guards like Terrence Romeo and RR Garcia. This was proven to be true when the Tams swept the first round this season.

The Green Archers entered the season with the tallest frontline and the deepest bench. Although a young team, they were immediately considered as title contenders.


So it was a wide-open race.

But nearing the playoffs, the tournament became even more interesting due to certain unexpected events including numerous suspensions on players and coaches. Ateneo’s chances were hurt when new head coach Bo Perasol was slapped a two-game suspension after a confrontation with a DLSU fan at the end of the Ateneo-La Salle second round match. UST eventually eliminated the Perasol-less Blue Eagles in their second round match-up to barge into the Final Four.
Thus, Ateneo’s five-year dynasty finally met its end.

And after the semis, the two teams that survived were also the most determined this year, having gone through the fire earlier in the tournament. The Green Archers were criticized in several games during the first round for their inability to close out games that they’ve dominated in the first three quarters. The Growling Tigers groped for form in several games due to the absence of Jeric Teng, who sustained a back injury during the first round encounter with NU.

La Salle entered the second round with a renewed spirit and has not lost a single game since. UST, the No. 4 squad in the semis, defied the odds and defeated the No. 1 team NU Bulldogs twice to return to the UAAP finals.

And the finale was everything it was expected to be. The best-of-three championship series went the distance, with all three games equally heart-stopping. The Tigers took Game 1, with a 73-72 squeaker over the Archers, in a highly charged contest. But La Salle got its act together to even the series with a convincing 77-70 victory. This set the stage for a climactic ending to a great season.

Game 3 was sure to bring out the best in both squads. It was electrifying, emotional, physical and spectacular.
From the get go, you could see the fire in the eyes of both sides. Both teams played excellent defense that neither of them was able to build a big lead, unlike in the first two games.

Four quarters could not settle the championship. Extra five minutes were needed.

At this point, both sides were slowly losing steam. Both coaches limited their player rotation. One after another, the players were getting the cramps. The overtime period was starting to look ugly, marred by forced shots and turnovers from both sides.
The first basket in the extra period was a lay-up by Vosotros after a loose ball play, 67-65 for DLSU. Jarencio asked for an isolation post play for Kevin Ferrer. Brilliant move. 67-all, 1:15 left in the game.

UST makes a stop. Jarencio directs another post play, this time for Jeric, against Vosotros. Jeric did a tough fade away shot for the 69-67 UST lead with only 34 seconds remaining.

Jeron takes charge and draws a foul from Mariano. He sinks the first but bungles the second.

Mariano got the loose ball but was trapped in the corner. He spots Ferrer on the weak side, but his pass was off target. Crucial turnover.

The ensuing play became the play of the game. Jeron attacks the hoop and draws all defenders to him, leaving Vosotros open. Vosotros makes his favorite move – a shot fake and one-dribble J. Swoosh. La Salle now up, 70-69.

Abdul misses on his penetration and LA Revilla recovers the leather. UST sends him to the stripe. He makes one of two for a 71-69 La Salle lead.

Abdul attacks coast-to-coast but Jeron taps the ball out. Upon video review, the officials gave the possession to the Tigers, with only 2.3 seconds to go. Abdul finds himself wide open from mid-range but muffs his third attempt in a row.

La Salle gets the win and the title.

Two months later, the Green Archers also took home the PCCL crown via a 2-0 sweep of the South Western University Cobras in the finals.

With only LA Revilla graduating from its program, La Salle looks to build its own dynasty in the UAAP after archrival Ateneo ruled the league from 2008 to 2012.

The Teng brothers became household names especially after the finals. But other UAAP heroes emerged during the season like AVO, Perkins, Mammie, Chris Newsome, and Jericho Cruz, even as Romeo got the MVP award and Kyles Lao the Rookie of the Year plum.

Red Lions struggle to keep NCAA dynasty but win four-peat just the same

Many thought this season was going to be a walk in the park for San Beda, especially with an almost intact line-up. But from the opening day when the Red Lions barely escaped the College of St. Benilde Blazers, it became clear that this year’s NCAA tournament was also going to be anybody’s season.

It was also the longest season in league history, which ran from June to November. All ten teams had brilliant games throughout the season. The Mapua Cardinals only won twice in the tournament but one of them was over San Beda. Lyceum, the cellar dweller last season, defeated all four semi-finalists once this year.

Up to the last two weeks of the elimination round, the final standings were still unclear with only San Beda and Letran assured of a semis ticket.

But just before the Final Four, reports came out that Red Lion guard Ryusei Koga saw action in another tournament during the season, which was a league violation. If proven true, up to four SBC wins would have been forfeited, dropping the Red Lions to no more than the No. 4 spot. It would have meant a date with the Knights in the semis, but with a twice-to-win disadvantage. The NCAA formed an investigating committee that found no evidence to prove the allegation.

San Beda still emerged on top of the standings after the elims, followed by Letran, San Sebastian and Perpetual Help.
The Red Lions and Knights easily won their semis matches to set a most awaited rematch. San Beda got its third straight championship last year in three games at the expense of Letran.

It was another chance for the Lions to win the four-peat after they failed to achieve this in 2009. But it was a chance for retribution too for the Knights after bowing to San Beda in the previous year.

Many thought the match-up was dead even. But many agreed too that this was Letran’s best opportunity to snatch the NCAA diadem, which it last held in 2005. The Knights, after all, were more balanced this year, especially with the vast improvement of Raymond Almazan. The 6’8” center was declared the season MVP. He was a good match-up against San Beda’s Ola Adeogun.

In Game 1, the Lions’ championship experience and bench depth proved useful as they turned a see-saw battle into a rout in the last five minutes to take the victory, 80-68. San Beda entered the fourth quarter with a 47-53 deficit. But the Red Lions imposed their will in the same period, scattering 33 points as against only 15 for the Knights.

n Game 2, the Knights’ bench delivered the goods to level the series with a 79-74 win. The Lions had an excellent first half that saw them on top by six. But with their backs against the wall, the Knights responded to new mentor Caloy Garcia’s call to fight with all their might in the second half. Letran used a run-and-gun attack to force a sudden death for the title.

Still fresh in the minds of some Knights from last year’s Game 3, especially Mark Cruz, Kevin Racal, Jonathan Belorio and Almazan, was the 28-point mauling they received from the Lions. This time, they were ready for war.

Game 3 was a basketball junkie’s dream. It was one of the best college games in recent years, especially if you appreciate a defensive-oriented approach. There were 11 lead changes and three deadlocks.

At halftime, San Beda’s rookie coach Boyet Fernandez pointed out the Lions’ usual meltdown in the third period. In Games 1 and 2, they were ahead going into the second half only to lose the lead midway in the third quarter. In Game 3, they were down by six points after 20 minutes of play.

When the Knights brought their lead up to eight points in the third, the Letran gallery went wild, as it was looking very much like Game 2. But Fernandez pulled one from his bag of tricks and surprised the Knights with a 2-2-1 zone press and 2-3 half-court zone that allowed the Bedans to slowly crawl back into the game until an Amer jumper from the corner put San Beda back in the driver’s seat by one point.

Then came the payoff period. There was so much passion from both sides in the jam-packed Mall of Asia Arena. It was winning time.

Both teams traded baskets and the lead kept shifting from one side to the other. Letran rookies Rey Nambatac and Reneford Ruaya came to play and hit some big shots in the last eight minutes of the game.

But in the final two minutes, sophomore power forward Arth Dela Cruz took over the game, converting two floaters that kept the Lions ahead. With under a minute to go, Yvan Ludovice split his charities to give San Beda a two-point lead.
Racal tried to tie the count but was blocked by Adeogun.

With only eight seconds remaining, all the Red Lions had to do was make a good inbound pass. They didn’t. Dela Cruz lost grip of the ball and was stolen by Racal.

But the Knights wasted a golden opportunity to tie the count after Racal's pass was deflected by Dela Cruz into the hands of Ludovice and then to Amer, who was eventually fouled. Letran still not in penalty.

This time, San Beda made sure to inbound the ball well, which landed in the hands of Adeogun. Letran sent the Nigerian gentle giant to the line. He calmly sank both charities to give San Beda a luxurious four-point advantage with just two ticks left in the game.

And then it was all over. The Red Lions celebrate their fourth consecutive NCAA championship via a 60-56 triumph in Game 3.
This season was unquestionably the most difficult for the Red Lions, who have won seven of the last eight NCAA titles.
Next year, the Red Lions gun for a league record five straight championships that San Sebastian first achieved in 1997. With only Rome Dela Rosa exiting the program, this seems to be a great possibility.

But then again, each year becomes tougher for the Red Lions to keep their dynasty in the NCAA.

One thing's for sure, the 2014 collegiate season should be something to watch out for in both the UAAP and the NCAA. JMP

A Secret I Couldn't Keep

You haven't left my thoughts. Ever. Not even once. To put it quite simply, I miss you. I miss the way you would confide in me. I miss the stories you would unfold in my ears. I miss feeling your smile even if it was only on the phone. I miss every moment lived with you. I despise every moment without you. I miss the portrait of you with my mind. And I could spend hours trying to explain why it still hurts, but its quite complicated and all I know is that I miss you. And sometimes I'd rather not know that you miss me too.

I would love to know why the thought of you still keeps me restless at the oddest hours of the day, but what I would love even more is to know if I have the same effect on you. Your eyes are still my favorite place to get lost in. Your heart is still the only place I can call home. Your arms are the single greatest comfort I've come to know. And call me crazy, but I don't think you'll ever understand the effect your smile has on me.

Sometimes when I look at your picture, I just want to kiss you. More than anything, I just want one kiss. A kiss to tell me that you trust your lips against mine. A kiss to prove to me that I can still see the world with my eyes closed. A kiss to remind me that actions do truly speak louder than words. I miss the feeling of having my lungs filled with the sweetest air possible, yet still feel so breathless.

But it already feels like an eternity ago when it was all so real. I traded away the happiness I found in your hands that fit so perfectly with mine. I traded away the peace I found when you rested your head on my shoulders. I traded away the harmony I found in your voice when I talked to you to sleep while I ran my fingers through your hair. I traded away the bliss I felt when you first called me Baby and made me realize that I would never be the same again. I traded away the way you made me feel that nothing else has compared or even came close to. And I'm afraid that nothing ever will.

I've lost you, and yet I still love you. A different definition this time around. A love that I've gradually learned from you. Unspoken. Unconditional. Resilient. You drive me crazy and keep me sane at the same time and I wouldn't want it any other way. At times it hurts to love you and it feels me with anger that I became ashamed to feel. Ashamed, not just for the wrong things I've done but also for the right things that I failed to do.

I forced myself out of a love that was given to me unconditionally. I forced myself into the dark, until I could no longer remember how to feel with my eyes. I forced to believe that I loved you more than you ever loved me. But the worst part was selling my soul for a price I know I can never repay, and forcing myself into thinking that you never truly loved me because you never would've left. It brings a subtle devastation to my life to know we could never be, because I was always willing to bet my life that you were meant for me.

You were the kind of secret I couldn't keep to myself. And I didn't really think about where it would end up because I was so enthralled in trying to recapture the best feeling that I've ever felt. No excuses. I turned my back on the one person that believed she could count on me. Never in a million years will I ever be able to forgive myself for destroying the world I once considered my everything. Not being able to have the only thing you want out of life hurts a lot more than they say it would. And I deserve every morsel of pain and suffering. I just hope one day that I'll fully comprehend how much you truly loved me.

Think of this as a simple love letter like before - full of emotions I cannot express, telling you everything you should hear with the words only my heart could comprehend. You are everything when I'm convinced that I should be nothing at all. Simply put, thank you. For every second of your time, for every ounce of your patience, every bit of your effort and every drop of your love. JMP

What If?

Every Filipino basketball junkie dreams of the day that a kid from our little island nation will finally make it to the biggest league in the world, the NBA. Imagine a guy of your own bloodline playing in this grand stage and actually making an impact. These hoop dreams are not far from reality with players getting taller, stronger, quicker and smarter. Even Manny V. Pangilinan or also known as MVP, is thinking of purchasing a share in an NBA team. Indeed the sky is the limit when it comes to our love of the game. Everything is possible when we dream. But imagine if the NBA or the US NCAA suddenly banned all foreigners who did not have American blood in them or who were not born in America. Citing that these foreigners are taking away opportunities for so many young Americans from playing college or professionally. If that happens, our hoop dream would be obliterated. Of course, the Filipino nation would cry foul, citing that this is racist and unfair for players who worked so hard just to get a chance to study in the US or play in the NBA. Players who risked everything chasing that dream. Unfair isn't it?

But thats exactly what we are doing in our own country. The NCAA has enacted a rule that would ban foreigners from playing in the league. The UAAP on the other hand, is putting some thought into enacting such a rule in their own league. This ban was enacted by the schools who advocated it, claiming that the influx of foreigners into Philippine basketball will destroy local scouting thus, will not help local talents, though the national team, Gilas Pilipinas, has acquired the service of a foreign player to shore up the center position. These so called men of upright education claim that we must prioritize our own race than others, yet would cry foul at the very hint of a racist murmur against our very own. They claim that these foreigners do not come here to study but just to play but does not bat an eye when they found out a local player, who happens to be their star player, does not attend classes. This cycle of hipocrisy and politics is what truly bringing Philippine basketball down. The fact that these rules were enacted in response to the rise of teams in their leagues shows that the true reason why they enact such rule is only to bring certain teams down. This is masked by misplaced nationalism that evolves into outright racism. A cycle of hate and bigotry that if not stopped, will only get worse.

Though I should not be surprised since I've always believed that Filipinos are racist. We call offensive names to different ethnic groups that only shows our ignorance to the world community. One game affirmed me that my belief was true. Game 3 of the 89th season of the NCAA Basketball Finals. Whenever Nigerian Ola Adeogun would go to the freethrow line, the whole Colegio de San Juan de Letran community resounded not with cheers or jeers but with monkey sounds and gestures. A Letran alumus was also photographed acting like a monkey to mock Ola. These acts are the most disgusting I've ever seen in my years of watching basketball. That act made me ashamed to associate myself to these people as my countrymen. They do not know the meaning or implications of what they did. As what I said to a friend who's a Letran alumnae, "I pray that you do not experience what you did to Ola that game." Yet I believe that it is more shameful that the institution itself did not do anything about the incident, not even an apology. It is perfectly clear that Letran accepts these kind of behavior from their alumni and students and has no intention of curtailing this.

They fail to realize that these athletes have risked so much to come to our shores to gain an education and/or realize their dreams to play professionally. Young men come here to seek own fortunes, quite similar to a Filipino teen coming to Metro Manila to try out for a college team. The stories of young men such as Ola Adeogun who left his homeland of Nigeria at a young age to follow his dream. Not only is he a well-loved man around campus and beyond because of his kindness at his obvious skill as a player but he also showed ability in his academics by becoming a dean's lister. He speaks impeccable Tagalog and is inlove with his adopted country. During the recent calamities, Ola wore a shirt dedicating his game to the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Yet through all his kindness he has shown and concern he has given, he is still treated in an appalling manner by certain people. He is no different from any Filipino kid who has dreams, a family, beliefs and his own pursuit of happiness. It just so happens that he is 6'9, dominant at the game and comes from a winning school.

While writing this article, I couldn't avoid but feel anger and shame. I feel angry that people could be so cruel and ignorant to do such things. Shamed that my own people, who ourselves fought for our right to be respected as a nation and as a race would do such things. Racism is a global concern for organizations like FIFA, spending a lot of money to curtail racism. I hope this article would shed some light into why these rules and why our treatment to these student-athlete are wrong. This game is not about skin color or where you came from. This is a game loved by many, so let us not ruin it with ignorant hate. These foreigners are not objects that we can easily disposed, they are people. They are humans just like us. JMP

For San Beda, Our Country and God

This is the 3rd time that San Beda and Letran has met in an NCAA Finals since 2006.

In Season 83, San Beda took the crown in 2 games. In Season 88, both were in the brink but San Beda prevailed in 3 games, taking over the reigns as the NCAA’s winningest team in history.

Bring out the challenges

A hard -fought battle on opening night against the Blazers. Losses to Lyceum and Letran in the 1st round then that stunning loss to cellar dweller, Mapua. The latter was a wake up call.

Although they were the favorites to go all the way, a lot of people questioned their resolve, their hunger, perhaps, waning. They have been playing inconsistently all -year, numbers don’t lie.

In their last game of the regular season, they needed an extra period to extinguish an unrelenting and hungry Knights squad.

What’s worse, enter the Koga ligang labas issue. The case erupted with proof that is unclear and without a shred of testimony. It added a black hole in an already long and weary NCAA season. No conclusion, no end in sight. During the finals, hecklers were shouting his name but San Beda wisely ignored the jeers.

Fear neither fire nor blood

At the series opener, the Red Lions claimed pole position at the final turn with a decisive, 80-68 dismantling of the Knights.

Ola Adeogun had 16 points and 11 rebounds. Baser Amer had an excellent game with 16-points, 8 rebounds while dishing out 6 assists, including 3 of 5 from long range. Ivan Ludovice also had his way from beyond the arc shooting 60% for a game total 11 points. San Beda out -rebounded Letran 49-40.

In their 2nd meeting, the Red Lions were appalling offensively, shooting just 38% compared to Letran’s 48%. A high scoring affair thwarted San Beda’s chance to close it out.

The Red Lions struggled to dictate the tempo and had 21 turnovers. The Knights took advantage, squeezing out an 18-9 edge in turnover points and 14-4 fastbreak points.

Art dela Cruz top scored for San Beda with 23 points and 12 rebounds with a 44% from 3 point range to keep up with the offensive minded Knights. Baser Amer only had 8 points, his 5th single digit performance of the season but contributed 6 assists.

Do it all Team Captain, Rome dela Rosa picked up his final foul midway thru the 3rd period and left the game with 10 points to his credit.

Adeogun, who earned his 4th personal early in the 2nd half, rode the bench thru most of the 3rd and early 4th quarters, could not make his presence felt with only a single attempt from the shaded area.

The most dominating center in the NCAA only had 10 points mostly from the free throw line but converted on a surprise 3-pointer to close the gap down the stretch.

They answered the Clarion’s call

In Game 3, San Beda started strong with a 14-7 advantage to end the 1st quarter. Letran made a furions comeback in the 2nd quarter to close the 1st half with a 6-point lead.

It was in this timeframe that multi-titled coach- Boyet Fernandez – used the zone to pressure the ball at the same time disrupting Letran’s drive and kick attack. It was his final card. He added that San Beda has never used the zone against Letran all year. It was a risk because the Knights are adept in hitting that deadly three -ball.

The Red Lions can go under in minutes but the ploy worked and that’s what coaching is all about.

The 3rd period was close with San Beda on top, 45-43. In the 4th quarter, it was a dog -fight all the way.

Adeogun’s strong move to the basket knotted the game’s final lead change. Dela Cruz’s floater with 3 minutes left, made it a 3-point lead for San Beda, 55-52.

After two free throws by Kevin Racal, Dela Cruz’s clutch jumper from the pinch post extended San Beda’s margin once again by 3.

A wide open jumper by Ford Ruaya from the right wing trimmed the Red Lions lead by a single digit until Mark Cruz suffered cramps with 28 seconds left.

Adeogun’s block on Racal’s baseline drive secured another possession for the Red Lions.

The hungry Knights had the chance to tie or steal the game on a poor inbounds pass by San Beda luckily Ludovice and Dela Cruz regained possession to finally seal the game and the title for the Red Lions.

Letran had the edge in fastbreak points, 11-4 but San Beda took care of business in the rebounding department, 48-42 with17 turnover points compared to Letran’s 10.

A winner everywhere he goes. An NCAA juniors title. A title in the UAAP with Ateneo in his rookie season and in his return in the NCAA with the Red Lions, helping them achieve no. 17. Dela Cruz is this year’s NCAA Finals MVP with a 20 points, 16 rebounds, and 3 assists, another double-double performance.

Adeogun , the main reason why the Red Lions have been title contenders the past two seasons and years to come, has contributed 17 points, 13 rebound and 4 blocked shots for probably the biggest game of San Beda since mounting their title run in Season 82.

8 finals appearances. 7 Championships. An 18-0 campaign. A pair of 3-peats. Four straight championships, the first in team history, with a grand total of 18 titles in the country’s oldest collegiate basketball league.

How sweet it is. JMP

Roar For Four

Experience. Poise. Composure and Drive.

Those are what drove the San Beda Red Lions to another victory and eventually their fourth straight title in the NCAA after edging Letran, 60-56 in Game 3 of the Finals of Season 89 at the jam -packed Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Arthur Dela Cruz, who is coming off a 23-point explosion paced the Red Lions with 20 points and 16 rebounds. The former San Beda Red Cub standout was also adjudged as the Finals MVP.

Letran was on the verge of snatching away the final game of the season as well as the championship after trailing the Red Lions by just two, 56-58 with less than a minute left.

As Kevin Racal drove to the baseline, Ola Adeogun, San Beda’s prized center went sky high for a monster block that made Racal’s floater crashing back to earth.

A costly turnover down the stretch almost caused the game for the Red Lions with Racal getting the leather but Dela Cruz came to the rescue for the counter steal.

The former Sta. Lucia stalwart in the PBA and now Red Lions head coach Boyet Fernandez, took over the chores left behind by Ronnie Magsanoc after winning San Beda’s third straight title last season. Fernandez was already a team consultant last year and already knew the capabilities and talents of the team members.

It was not until the fourth period during crunchtime when the San Beda started to act and play like three -time champions.

Even the inspired games from Ford Ruaya and Rey Nambatac to support Raymond Almazan and Mark Cruz could not stop the domination of the Red Lions.

It was San Beda’s seventh championship title in the last 8 years dating back from 2006. Their only runner-up finish was in 2009 when San Sebastian, led by Jimbo Aquino, Ian Sangalang, Ronald Pascual and Calvin Abueva snapped San Beda’s streak to just three.

The Red Lions could have achieved a four peat then but God had other plans for them.

The 22-year-old Adeogun had 17 points, 13 boards, two assists, one steal and four monster blocks across his name.

Just like in Game 2 which they lost, Adeogun struggled again in the first half. Fernandez never got tired of encouraging his ward.

Adeogun, who felt that it’s been physical all series long was just happy all their hard work paid off.

Sophomore Dela Cruz, who has a bright future ahead of him with 2 years of eligibility left is thahnkful for the trust that Coach Boyet Fernandez gave them amidst errors.

Dela Cruz is confident that this will not be his last championship with the squad.

The son of former San Miguel player in the pros Arthur Dela Cruz was commended well by Fernandez.

Team captain Rome Dela Rosa bade his collegiate career goodbye but not without a bang and a championship. He finished with six points and five rebounds across his name.

Dela Rosa, another second generation player trying to mark in the hoops scene started his career with San Beda in 2009, the year San Sebastian momentarily interrupted San Beda’s domination in the league. The next four years was a different story as the San Diego -raised forward went on to pile up championship titles one after the other.

This year’s Game 3 of the finals had an almost perfect ending for Letran. In last year’s rubber match, the Knights were sorely crushed by the Red Lions, 39-67.

Letran’s four -point loss today somehow shouted that they learned from their mistakes and that they made big adjustments. However, it was not enough to match or surpass the deep bench of San Beda.

Rookie coach Caloy Garcia of Letran, who has one more year left in his contract left the venue shortly after the game to catch his flight going to Davao to join the Rain or Shine Elastopainters in their season opener against the Alaska Aces tomorrow.

Joining Garcia is the third overall pick Almazan, who will right away join the pros tomorrow.

The Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player and Mythical team member finished his collegiate career with 14 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks across his name in his last game with a Letran jersey.

Almazan is the only legit center in the Letran roster. The Knights will have to find a suitable and worth replacement who can fill in the shoes left behind by the Bataan native.

The Red Lions will not have their usual victory celebration of a bonfire and street party in Mendiola. As a united country, San Beda will just celebrate their victory with a mass and a simple dinner. Instead, they will extend help and donations to the victims of supertyphoon “Yolanda” last week. JMP

Gameday Lesson

Gameday. It finally comes to this. Probably the last game of the season. I can still remember everything when it all started.

Eve of my birthday when season 89 of the NCAA unfolded. It was my beloved San Beda Red Lions up against the season host, College of St. Benilde Blazers. No one gave the Blazers a chance to win on this one but they showed they are one worthy opponents on the season opener. San Beda up in most of the game, suddenly collapsed in the middle of the 4th and giving the host a 1-point lead with 4 ticks remaining. I can eavesdrop on what my seatmates from UPSHD are saying. They said with this performance of the Red Lions they can't regain the crown and have a coveted 4 peat. I didn't believe them. Then, game resumes with a Rome dela Rosa alley-oop to Arthur dela Cruz for the first win of the season.

Then, it was the LPU Pirates. This was the most shocking of all. Nobody, I mean nobody could predict that the Pirates could win against the mighty Red Lions. But they did. The doubts to the San Beda team become stronger and stronger that they cannot win the season 89 title. But still, I believe that they can.

Then, its the arch-rivals' turn. The Letran Knights, last year's nemesis is up to task of giving the Red Lions their 2nd loss in the first round, a first in their 8 year campaign. The Letran Knights started hot in the first quarter, leading as much as 18 points. But the Red Lions fighted back and grabbed the lead in the 3rd. But the Letran Knights are so much resilient on this one and hold on to a 74-67 win. I remember someone asked me while we are watching "Anyare?". I just smiled and said, "After the season ends, we are still holding the trophy. I still believe in them."

Before the end of the 2nd round of eliminations, another shocker occurred. This time, it is the league-dwellar Mapua Cardinals who escaped with a 4-point lead. Just when I thought they already learned their lesson with that 3 games they had. I'm so disappointed with that loss but nevertheless, I didn't lose my trust in them.

And now that we are one win away from a 4-straight championship, I feel honored and great that I never leaved them just because of the 4 bad games they had early in the season. I believed in them so much that even they have given me heartaches with that bad games, I know that in the end, it will still be a fruitful season for us. That my folks is trust. Trust that will bring you places. Trust that may lead you to agony of defeat and also to ecstasy of victory. JMP

NCAA Season 89 Finals Preview : San Beda v Letran

Another classic college basketball game will unfold on November 11, as two of the winningest members of the country’s oldest collegiate basketball league will face off for the 2nd straight season in a championship series.

The San Beda Red Lions will go for a team best 4th straight NCAA title while the Letran Knights will attempt to dethrone the defending champs as they meet for the 3rd time since Season 83.

The Red Lions ended the elimination round with a 15-3 record while Letran ended their regular schedule campaign with a 14-4 mark.

Prior to their 74-67, August 24, 2013 1st round conquest of San Beda, it was on July 25, 2007 against an RJ Jazul, Rey Guevarra and coach Louie Alas led squad.

In their 1st game of Season 89, Raymond Almazan top scored for the league’s No. 1 offensive Team with 22-points, including 2 of 3 from the 3-pt range, 11 rebounds and 3 blocked shots while Reneford Ruaya chipped in for 15 points.

Ola Adeogun led the Red Lions with 27 points and 15 rebounds with Baser Amer contributing for 15 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds. Although the Red Lions out -rebounded the Knights, 52-41, San Beda committed more turnovers 19-10virtually translating those mental lapses into 21 turnover points for the Knights.

In the their 2nd encounter, San Beda had to use the extra period to thwart the indefatigable Knights relying solely with a solid game from Adeogun who had 26 points and 26 rebounds with 3 blocked shots. Rome Dela Rosa and Amer had 13 points and 12 points respectively for the Red Lions while out -rebounding Letran, 62-47.

The Knights are at their best when they face the Red Lions. I have to emphasize that this team is genuinely veteran. Guys like Jonathan Belorio, Raymund Almazan, Jamil Gabawan, Kevin Racal, Mark Cruz, and even McJour Luib have tasted life at the postseason while new arrivals Ruaya, John Tambeling and Rey Nambatac are catching on and learning on the fly. This team has been together a long time, and would want to make the most of it especially once Almazan officially turns pro after this season. Don’t be deceived. The Knights have a lethal starting five with a reliable crew of relievers ready to show their worth.

Next to Perpetual Help and Lyceum, Letran is the next volume shooter from the 3-point area with a total 367 shots in the elimination round and a conversion rate of 26%. In both games against the Red Lions, that number jumped to 33%. Racal, Cruz, Nambatac, Tambeling and on some occasions, their bigs, Belorio and Almazan can hit the three ball.

The Knights are deadly from deep as witnessed against their Final Four match with the Golden Stags when they hoisted 30 attempts from that area which was more than what they had in each outing against San Beda, and made 10. There is no off switch from beyond the arc if they want to win this series. Their command of the perimeter will create more space in the shaded area for their guards to operate, create opportunities for their teammates, disrupt San Beda’s defensive rotation, penetrate the seams while their bigs take care of those 2nd chance opportunities.

In both games, the Knights have the advantage when playing above the 70+ range but had trouble limiting their opponents below 69 points except in their last game when they held the Golden Stags at the 58 point mark. They have to improve defensively and do it consistently if they want to stop a bigger, tougher opponent like San Beda.

The Red Lions have been inconsistent all year offensively. It took 2 1/2 quarters and two threes from Roldan Sara to wake them up en route to their semis win against the Altas.

Losing to Lyceum in the 1st round then to lowly Mapua and a close call against the Golden Stags, are signs of in dire need of a caffeine boost, but they have survived from their spotty production all season mainly on the defense end.

The scary part for the opponent is that we haven’t seen their best game. It’s tough to pinpoint their A-game and this trip to the finals for the 8th straight year might just provide the springboard for better things to come, besides, San Beda has never accomplished four -in -a-row and that poses another motivation to finally come out of their shell at the biggest show of the season.

The Red Lions are the best defensive team in the league, limiting their opponents to just 63 points.

Letran had the better rebounding stat during the elimination round, 47-37, but San Beda managed to out -muscle their finals counterpart in both encounters, 114-88, especially on the offensive glass, 38-26.

On offense, this team can rely on Adeogun, Dela Cruz and Amer for double-digit scoring numbers, while Rome Dela Rosa provides the little things. The rest are sporadic but are still dangerous and can erupt at any time.

The Red Lions has one of the deepest bench in college basketball teeming with size and skill. Coming off the bench are Kyle Pascual, David Semerad, JP Mendoza, Anthony Semerad, Francis Abarcar, and Ivan Ludovice, that can shine at a moments notice. In their Final Four series, they limited Perpetual Help to a meager 51 points, far away from their elimination round output of 71.

Offense versus Defense. Both have experience but depth is on San Beda’s side.

The Result, San Beda in 2. JMP

NCAA Final Four Preview : Letran v San Sebastian

The Letran Knights ended their elimination round campaign with a 14-4 record and 2nd twice to beat advantage, losing to Perpetual Help in the 1st round then Lyceum, EAC and San Beda in the 2nd round.

With an output of 73 points per game, the Knights are the no. 1 offensive oriented team in the league. They have a potent starting unit led by top PBA draft prospect Raymond Almazan with an average of 14 points, 14 rebounds and a good 40% from the field. Almazan has resurrected his basketball career from near oblivion in Season 88 on his way as one of the top bigs in college basketball.

Mark Cruz has increased his scoring output from 10 points in Season 88 to 14 points while dishing out 3.7 assists has immunity in Coach Garcia’s free style system. From 231 shot attempts last year, Cruz has been the team’s high volume shooter with 286, still a far cry from Kevin Alas’ 431 attempts from the field last season. “Dati hindi nila magawa yon, pero ngayon binigyan ko sila nang freedom”, said Coach Garcia.

The system has been working well for the Knights with inspired performances from Kevin Racal (12 points, 7 rebounds), Reneford Ruaya (6.81 points) and rookie Rey Nambatac (8 points), not to mention veterans Jonathan Belorio and Jamil Gabawan. Minus Kevin Alas and a few others, its core is comprised of veteran players ready and able to step up at any given moment.

Coach Robinson has been in the NCAA since 2011 and has somehow witnessed the Knights’ rise over the years, “Mas beterano pa nga sila kaysa sa San Beda”. Last year was a good test for them. Losing streaks, they’ve climbed a mountain all the way to the finals by beating an Abueva led Golden Stags twice in the semis. Their experience from Season 88 has taught them how to win.

The Knights pose a threat from anywhere on the floor offensively and in my opinion, the Knights are one of the best jump shooting teams in college basketball and Coach Robinson was right on when he said, “All can shoot”, because most their players can contribute offensively especially from beyond the arc with guys like Mcjour Luib and John Tambeling waiting in the wings.

This is Coach Garcia’s 2nd tour in the NCAA. At the pro -level, he is fully aware that defense wins championships, “Worry ko lang talaga depensa”, as the Knights allow their opponents to score within the 68 point range.

The Golden Stags, on the other hand, had lost 7 games during the elimination round – twice to Letran and San Beda, Mapua, JRU and Lyceum – then earned their 3rd place finish with a 12-7 after their playoff win over Perpetual Help, 81-71 last October 29.

I agreed with Coach Garcia when he said, “Sa tingin namin San Beda pa rin team to beat, pero pareho lang lahat”, but not against a team that’s on an upswing and peaking at the right time.

Coach Robinson tried to downplay his chances but I felt he has the makings of a possible upset.

The Golden Stags have a young nucleus. Rookies Jaymar Perez, the Golden Stags’ scoring leader with 15.39 points, 7.3 rebounds and 37% from the field, Leodaniel de Vera, 8.47 points 7.4 rebounds, former Staglet and FEU Tamaraw, John Ortuoste, with 14.56 points and 4 rebounds, not bad for a guy who just recovered from a back injury, and Center Bradwyn Guinto, form the main elements of Coach Robinson’s rotation with 3rd year veteran Jovit Dela Cruz (11.11 points, 7.3 rebounds) to lead them.

Back up big man, Ranimark Tano, and guard Mark Trinidad will provide the spark off the bench, both are capable offensively from mid to long range with a 49% and 38% shooting respectively from the field.

Both are lethal offensively. Experience and depth will count in the semis.

The result, Letran in 1. JMP

NCAA Final Four Preview : San Beda v Perpetual

The Final Four cast is complete and this is a repeat of last season’s 1 vs. 4 match up.

Interesting to note, San Beda prevailed in both encounters but both were close encounters, lets recap.

In their first meeting, Baser Amer singlehandedly carried the load for the Red Lions with 23 points while the Altas’ Nosa Omorogbe had 21 points. San Beda led the 2nd chance points department, 9-5 and rebounds, 43-34.

In their 2nd outing, Amer again top scored with 21 points followed by Art Dela Cruz with 16 points.

Omorogbe had a double-double performance with 23 points and 11 rebounds while Juneric Baloria had 16 points. San Beda had a double digit lead going for them until a 24-11 outbreak in turnover points by Perpetual Help has put them in great position for a possible take over, but the Red Lions were able regain control in the overtime period to thwart the bulldozing Altas.

The Red Lions are the No. 1 defensive team in the league. Their offense have been spotty all season, so defense, widely believed to be the philosophy of champions, will be their calling card.

Three things that the Red Lions have to do to stay ahead of their final four repeat adversary, first is rebounding. Since they do it as a committee, the Altas are the better rebounding team, 44-37 and has the edge in 2nd chance points, 7-5.

Although the Red Lions out-rebounded Perpetual Help in both outings, 99-82 the Altas had the better offensive rebounding output 34-23.

Second is to limit their turnovers. Overall, the Red Lions are better at taking care of the basketball, 17-19. However, in their last two games, San Beda committed a total of 46 turnovers compared to Perpetual Help’s 26, that’s a huge disparity, especially in their last game when the Altas led in turnover points, 24-11.

And third, pound the ball inside. Amer and Dela Cruz has been leading the Red Lions charge all season with 13 and 11 points respectively, but the one true advantage of San Beda is Ola Adeogun. In both games, Adeogun has performed way below his average of close to 14 points per game to just 5.5 points with a combined 12 shot attempts. They have to force feed him when necessary if they want to overcome their volatile performance on offense.

The Altas are the best 3-point shooting team in the league with a 31% accuracy from deep.

7 players average above the 25% range and will not hesitate whatsoever in shooting the 3-ball and that means more breathing room for their primary scorers to maneuver and attack the seams of the San Beda defense.

With more room to operate, Nosa Omorogbe can do his thing both inside and out.

He has been a match-up problem for the Red Lions in their past two games. Omorogbe can post up smaller guards and attack bigger defenders off the dribble.

Omorogbe has been the Altas’ 15 points, 8 rebounds spark, do-it-all guy and will definitely take matters into his own hands in close games.

At the wings are Juneric Baloria, the Altas’ leading scorer and league’s best with 19 points per game, is a rookie that plays like a veteran and a threat from anywhere on the court in tandem with Harold Arboleda, a double-double workhorse averaging 12 points and 11 rebounds per game.

For their lack of size and with a legendary college coach on their side, they will surely make-up for it with team grit.

Coach Aric Del Rosario is confident about his match up with the Red Lions. He believes that their Season 88 experience against the same foe has helped his team’s semis learning curve.

The result, San Beda in 1. JMP