Smart Gilas vs Talk N Text Brawl / Melee

Rick Olivares reported today that several Talk N Text cagers ganged up on CJ Giles - the reinforcement of Smart Gilas Basketball team. Here's the account:

Talk ‘N Text, down by 10 points at that point in the 2nd Quarter was getting frustrated because they could not score down low with Giles and Japeth Aguilar swatting shots left and right. In one rebound play, Giles and De Ocampo got entangled with the latter emerging from the pile and throwing punches. Three other Tropang Texters – Jared Dillinger, Ali Peek, and Mac Cardona – joined the fray before cooler heads intervened. The incident happened in from of Talk N Text’s bench.

Talk ‘N Text claim that Giles threw the first punch but video taken by the SBP showed otherwise.

Both clubs are sister teams, it's just too bad. Ranidel De Ocampo was involved in the mess and I'm not surprised. Years ago, De Ocampo gave Singapore Slinger cager Sandrin a slight back massage which resulted in the latter's bad fall.

The incident disillusioned some Gilas' player (quoted by Rick Olivares again)," Sayang. We looked up to them (Talk ‘N Text) as big brothers practicing with them from the start, idolizing them on television. Nakakawalang respeto."

I'm disappointed with Ali Peek, I thought he is a peacemaker. Remember when he stopped the Talk N Text import who was going after James Yap?

I do hope things like this won't happen in the Smart Gilas Powerade Team Pilipinas match this Monday. I prefer the game to be physical NOT DIRTY as being physical is just a regular part of international basketball.

Smart Gilas vs Powerade Team Pilipinas / Japeth's Last Hurrah!

Smart Gilas (Basketball) vs Powerade Team Pilipinas - the dream match finally materialized, but in the most unfortunate situation. Typhoon Ondoy recently wrecked havoc in the Philippines, affecting the lives of almost two million people and killing about 200 people according to news reports. In a bid to be relevant and to help the victims, the SBP organized this charity game. Mikee Romero and Manny Pangilinan, sports patrons, have already donated huge sums of money for the victims through the event.

Most people reckon that Smart Gilas has the advantage as the team is always prepared and has good teamwork. But this concern is only secondary as helping the victims is the top priority anyway.

Okay, I'll dive in. The inside presence of CJ Giles and Japeth Aguilar will give Powerade fits. The teamwork of Smart Gilas is also spectacular. Unless Powerade can consistently disrupt Gilas' set plays, the young guns will school them about execution. I have a feeling the Powerade players will try to bully their way in - physically manhandle some of the Gilas' cagers in the hope that they will be intimidated or in the case of CJ Giles, get pissed and thrown out of the game. Smart Gilas is too experienced to fold up. They don't back down on anyone. Besides, they have faced the likes of Jackson Vroman before (Fiba Asia Club Championship) but our players took him on. In the end, Vroman was the one who ended up fuming.

I do hope the PBA players give their best - as this is just an exhibition game and they have the habit of not taking it seriously.

Here are the matches:
1st game : UAAP/NCAA SELECTION VS LIGA/Philippine Basketball League SELECTION

2nd game : Philippine Basketball Association POWERADE NATIONAL TEAM VS. SMART GILAS NATIONAL TEAM

Venue: Araneta Coliseum

Date: Monday October 5 2009, 5pm to 9pm. Proceeds go to Typhoon Ondoy's victims

If you have inquiries, please call the venue. Many people are pissed because they couldn't get tickets to the event.

The controversial player, Japeth Aguilar, will play for Smart Gilas in the exhibition match. Although Lito Alvarez told Philstar it will be his last. “But this will be Japeth’s last game with Smart Gilas. After this project, I’ll request to SBP not to allow Japeth play with them anymore, even in scrimmages. He (Aguilar) must come to terms with us already. We will show how supportive we are to SBP, and I expect them to return the gesture.”

UAAP / NCAA lineup

Mac ABOLUCION (Saint Benilde)
Mark Anthony ACOSTA (Mapua Tech)
Reil CERVANTES (Far Eastern)
Woodward CO (UP-Diliman)
Jan Julius COLINA (Adamson)
Mark Joel DE GUZMAN (Saint Benilde)
Jeric FORTUNA (Santo Tomas)
Teree GUILLERMO (Mapua Tech)
Allan Edward MANGAHAS (Mapua Tech)
Anjelo MONTECASTRO (Saint Benilde)
Jewel PONFERADA (National)
Paul SANGA (Far Eastern)
Mark SARANGAY (Mapua Tech)
Jan TAN (Saint Benilde)
Joshua David WEBB (De La Salle-Manila)

Coaches

Glenn CAPACIO (Far Eastern)
Richard del ROSARIO (Saint Benilde)

source:Anthony Servinio

Update 10 - 6 - 09: Smart Gilas vs Powerade

Smart Gilas Lineup vs Singapore Slingers

Based on internet reports, these are the players who might suit up for Smart Gilas vs Singapore Slingers game (basketball):

1. Chris Tiu
2. Mark Barroca
3. Mac Baracael
4. JV Casio
5. Magi Sison
6. CJ Giles
7. Jason Ballesteros
8. Japeth Aguilar
9. Fil-Aussie Seb Salinas 6 - 3
10. Fil-Aussie MattSchmechtig 6 - 1
11. Some TNT practice players I'm not sure who will be included specifically

Man, I do hope this game is available online so we could all watch it. I'm a big Smart Gilas fan or Team Pilipinas (Philippines) in whatever form it is (whether PBA or RP Youth).

The two Fil-Aussies are recent addition. I thought they are taller than 6-7. The team needs more personnel 6-8 and above.

After getting expelled from his team, Mark Barroca has been practicing with the squad, which is better than crying and moping all day. There's nothing wrong with it.

Dylan Ababou reportedly won't join the team as he had some classes to take.


It doesn't matter if Smart Gilas play against the import-reinforced Slingers. The team is used to that. They don't offer excuses when they fall short and they play hard to win. The Smart Gilas play beautiful basketball, you've got to see their crisp passing and shooting.

Game time is on: Wed, 23 Sep, 8pm



Smart Gilas vs Slingers 2 courtesy of skywalker9 for more click the video

Smart Gilas In The PBA (Schedule)

It's confirmed that Smart Gilas will play in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) this upcoming season. The Smart Gilas fans' are excited about this as we get to see the future of Philippine basketball. It was also reported (Bill Velasco) that the PBA will allow CJ Giles to play despite opposition from several coaches like Fernandez. It's a great decision, sir. Besides, Giles will be a Filipino soon. I think it would be better if some PBA squads treat this development as a challenge rather than an impediment / or an added burden. In addition, Smart Gilas games will count to give PBA teams added motivation as the latter doesn't treat exhibition matches seriously. I think PBA rules will be used, this is the only point I disagree. Kudos to the PBA for giving this opportunity to the Smart Gilas National Team.

I don't think Smart Gilas will easily destroy other teams in the league. Let's give the PBA players more credit, as seasoned veterans they won't just allow themselves to lose to amateurs. Besides, the grueling college basketball season will take its toll on some players in the team. Yes, it's a fact. But one thing is for certain though, the matches will be competitive. Smart Gilas is an amateur team that gave many professional teams with imports a hard time during the last Fiba-Asia Champions Cup eventually placing fifth.


It will take time before Smart Gilas blossoms into a formidable fighting unit capable of beating any team in the region. However, the team always give its 100% in the court as the players understand what are they fighting for. The challenge for Smart Gilas is massive as there are reports only two Asian teams will qualify for the London Olympics. SBP said they will lobby, but it's not certain whether they will succeed.

Smart Gilas frontline will be the biggest in PBA history:
CJ Giles 6-10
Junmar Fajardo 6 - 10
Greg Slaughter 6 -10
Rabeh Al-Hussaini 6- 8

Philippine Basketball Association All Filipino Conference will start on the 11th of October G.w.

Smart Gilas PBA Schedule Will Be Posted Soon...

Smart Gilas (Team Pilipinas) vs Singapore Slingers: No Possum Here

Smart Gilas (Philippine Developmental Basketball Team) will play a game against the Singapore Slingers on 23rd of September at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. The Nationals will have CJ Giles, Chris Tiu, and Mac Baracael reinforcing it along with several Talk n'Text practice players such as Gilbert Lao. Unfortunately, breakout college players like Mark Barroca, Aldrech Ramos, JR Jazul won't be able to play due to the ongoing collegiate basketball season. They will be missed, but it doesn't mean Smart Gilas will just lie down and die against Singapore. If anything this team will give their best I've seen it in the last Fiba-Asia Club Championship where they fought other Asian teams with two imports and still won (even one game without CJ Giles). The team has a strong sense of purpose and are very determined. Rajko Toroman doesn't believe in playing possum or giving excuses.

You know why they don't want to play possum? Not only it is unsportsmanlike, Smart Gilas players and coaching staff are confident in their ability to adjust to what their opponents throw at them. I don't buy that playing possum thing as a strong basketball squad doesn't need it.

Darren Ng (played six seasons in the NBL), Eric Sandrin (Ranidel's best friend LOL), and Pathman Matialakan are players Smart Gilas Basketball squad should watch out for. The team also have two American imports Kyle Jeffers, and Michael Leblanc. I think Smart Gilas picked the correct opponent as Singapore Slingers will definitely give them a great fight.

For Filipinos in Singapore, Slingers will also play the following teams:
Fri, 18 Sep, 8pm - Coca Cola (PBA)
Wed, 23 Sep, 8pm - Smart Gilas Pilipinas National Team (Phil)
Wed, 30 Sep, 8pm - Ginebra (PBA)
Sun, 4 Oct, 4pm - San Miguel (PBA)

Ranidel showed Sandrin some of the basketball tricks he knows.

I hope we can watch Smart Gilas vs Singapore Slingers live! Most likely, we won't.

Update: 9 -18 -09

I hope this game will be covered live! I really want to watch the Smart Gilas vs Singapore Slingers match. These are the sporting events that local sports cable channels should cover!

Coach Rajko Toroman's Team Pilipinas wins First China-Asean CBO tournament

Oh yes! The recently formed Team Pilipinas led by Rajko Toroman showed its potential by beating China 76-72 in the First China-Asean CBO invitational tournament. The Philippine contingent is composed of amateurs and college standouts showed enough skill to beat a team which some handles in interbasket forum said was a professional team in China (Lin Ning). So far no updates yet from Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas website but here is an account from gameface.ph:

Philippines won 76-72 according to Sports radio.... According to the text, we we're in control, we led all throughout the game by as much as 15 pts. China tied the game at the end, but the pinoy ballers showed their heart and poise at the end game.

The game result is confirmed by Xinhua

The team is composed of:
FEU’s Mac Baracael, Mark Baroca and JR Cawaling
UE’s Marcy Arellano
UP’s Martin Reyes and Magi Sison,
San Beda College’s Ogie Menor
UST’s Dylan Ababou,
UV's6-foot-11 slotman Greg Slaughter
Oklahoma City’s Terrel Theophile
Joey Deas of Rockhurst University in Kansas

Great news indeed! Man, I think new breed of Filipino basketball players are more gutsy than their predecessors. This is just the beginning. In fact, this SBP Team Pilipinas' line up isn't the strongest yet as players from Universities Athletic Association of the Philippines champion Ateneo and National Champion De La Salle aren't playing. The Team Pilipinas of the Future will only get stronger.

Terrence Gamble - Naturalized Player for Team Pilipinas?

Terrence Gamble
Position: Center
Height: 6-11
Weight: 260 lbs
College: Tarleton State University
Birthdate: September 25, 1983


This is the scouting report from tarletonsports.com:

2007-08
Showed promise as a big man underneath the basket... Has played organized basketball for only three seasons... Was a football star in high school...

2006-07
Started 18 of 28 games played, including the last 10 contests... Averaged 5.8 points and 5.5 rebounds as a junior... Had a .518 shooting percentage from the floor... Recorded two double-doubles, including a career-high 16 rebounds and 15 points against Texas-Permian Basin on Dec.. 18, 2006... Also scored 15 points against St. Mary’s (Dec. 29, 2006) and Texas A&M-Commerce (Jan. 4, 2007)... Also had 40 blocks, including four on three different occasions... Averaged 25:16 minutes per game...

Terrence Gamble is one of two players Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas is interested in including for the national team. Our national team needs a quick big man. No word yet on the other player. His appointment is not definite yet according to the news item from Manila Bulletin as Terence Gamble is to be evaluated by Coach Rajko Toroman and Toronto Raptor's Senior Director for Player Personnel Jim Kelly.

Gamble reportedly shattered a backboard in Mexico but it doesn't matter. Team Pilipinas needs a player that can jell with other national team players and can defend bigger guys like Yao Ming and Hadadi.

One glaring stat, Terrence Gamble averaged 9 points and 6 rebounds in his last year in college. In his third year just 5.8 rebounds! He is 6-11 but his rebounding skills is bad or he is lazy in fighting for the ball. Because of our players lack of height (makes one wonder why play this game where height is might) we need a rebounder and Gamble stats doesn't inspire confidence. His attitude however is different according to the Inquirer, he willing to be naturalized and play for our country. In addition, Terrence Gamble's age isn't a problem. He'll be 28 by 2011 Fiba-Asia Men's Championship.

Hopefully by tomorrow, we will know the other prospect so we could make an assessment on who should be included for Team Pilipinas. This is for fun of course as the final decision belongs to Coach Toroman. Other people take these things seriously. Get a life. I enjoy talking about basketball and will continue to do so.

If you want more of Terrence Gamble, here is his highlight video

Mac Cardona wants to play for Team Pilipinas

In what many people consider as a statement game, Mac Cardona scored 42 points and was unstoppable against Red Bull, leading his team (Talk n Text) to a 103 - 93 victory.

"I think I deserve to be in the National Team. I admire coach Yeng for his ability to motivate his players. I hope he’ll reconsider me because I really want to play and represent the country. Players don’t get the opportunity to play for the RP team everyday" Mac Cardona told the press.

This is great! While there are players willing to get out of the National Team commitment, I'm glad Mac Cardona is of different mold. I believe most young Filipino basketball players are gung ho in representing the country unlike some cagers in the 90s. This is not just my observation. Knowledgeable basketball fans will agree with me. Hey even Chot Reyes share my sentiment.

"It’s a very healthy attitude. It’s good that we have players willing to serve the country, unlike before na parang wala ng gustong maglaro for the RP team,” Reyes told Philstar.com

I know one player who got a lecture from Coach Jong Uichico back in 2001 for asking about allowance ON THE FIRST DAY OF TRAINING instead of concentrating on practice. His teammate from their mother team sympathized with him, in effect siding with the wrong doer. They were never invited for national team duties again. I hope there are more players like Mac Cardona (who not only stated his intention but displayed it on the court).

It doesn't mean the PHILIPPINE Basketball Association shares the same nationalistic fervor as Mac Cardona. The PBA will stop donning the national colors after 2010 since it is not their responsibility to do so. It is like saying it is not the English Premier League's job to represent England in the World Cup or the Euro (not Generals).

Mac Cardona's weakness according to fans is his weak defense which they say will be a huge liability against international teams. He has short period of time to work on it and show Yeng Guiao, he is really serious in joining the national team. The ball is in Mac Cardona's hands.

Mac Cardona

Nickname: Captain Hook
Height: 6-2
Weight: 175 lbs
Position: Shooting Guard
College: De La Salle University
Year Drafted: 2005 by Fedex
Achievements (so far): 2007 Best Player of the Conference Fiesta Conference
Weapon: Tear drop shot once mastered like Tony Parker could be hard to block in international competitions

This guy is a leader and scorer.

Toroman's Team Pilipinas Tryouts Today; Ray "Bobby" Parks

Team Pilipinas of the future under Coach Rajko Toroman is conducting tryouts today.

Tryouts schedule:
November 15 5-9 pm Xavier Gym
November 17, 20, & 21 at Philsports Arena

No. of Aspirants: 35
Notables: Nonoy Baclao, Rabeh Al-Husseini, & Gregory Slaughter.

Slaughter was out of shape the first time he attended Toroman's session although the Serbian is still hopeful of the young center.

Eala said Toroman was upbeat with Slaughter, a 6-11 center from the University of Visayas. “We’re thinking of bringing Greg to a strength and conditioning coach,” Eala told the Philippine Star

Some of the Team Pilipinas aspirants were already mentioned in this blog. Noli Eala also expressed intention of recruiting Bobby Parks' son Ray to the National Team.

Just how good is Ray "Bobby" Parks Jr..read the scouting report:

Ray "Bobby" Parks Jr. (St. George's)

My goodness what a player. His ability to use his strong build and exceptional ball-handling skills made him a dangerous player to attempt to guard. He drives right by bigger defenders and overpowers the little fellas and usually finishes with something crowd pleasing. He showed a toughness on defense and looks to make a name on the national stage before too long.

Source

Ray "Bobby" Parks Jr.'s skills attracted the attention of US college recruiters. There are people in the Philippines who wants the guy to play college ball in the Philippines - a sure way for his skills to deteriorate if you've seen local college leagues. I would rather see him in US NCAA.

Height: 6-4
Weight: 185 lbs
School: St. George Academy

Espn scouting report:
December, 2007: Great bloodlines and skill are the attributes for this youngster. Raised overseas his offensive skills are way ahead of his defensive abilities so his progress will be gradual. He can score inside with ease and has a nice outside stroke.

Team Pilipinas List of Tournaments

Here are the tournaments the Yeng Guiao coached Team Pilipinas will participate:

SEABA (who on earth they think will play for them in this tournament, I had an impression they would like some squad to play for them so the PBA season won't be interrupted. But I'm glad they would play since it's almost automatic qualification. There were fears other squads might not be good enough to win the SEABA.)

Jones Cup 2009 (Didn't the Taipei organizers insult the Filipinos this year? Why play in this tournament? It's time to teach the Taiwanese a lesson!!!)

A possible pocket tournament in the Middle East

Another Manila Invitational

News reports say Japeth Aguilar might try out for the team next year.

Due to time constraints this is all I can write about at the moment. I'll keep you guys posted. The preparation is wanting as far as I'm concerned. I wish they could've done more. Who wants to see Team Pilipinas lose because of lack of preparation anyway?

Official Team Pilipinas lineup

According to Philstar, Team Pilipinas Basketball lineup will be officially announced tomorrow. Players expected to make it in PBA-powered Team Pilipinas are the following:

Asi Taulava
Mick Pennisi
Kerby Raymundo
Kelly William
Gabe Norwood
Jayjay Helterbrand
James Yap
Ranidel de Ocampo
Willie Miller
Cyrus Baguio
Ryan Reyes
Arwind Santos
Sonny Thoss
Jared Dillinger

Many people were wondering why Jimmy Alapag didn't make the Team Pilipinas lineup. I will discuss that hopefully tomorrow.

SBP's Team Pilipinas Prospects; 2008 CESAFI Basketball Finals

Rabeh Al-Hussaini

Nonoy Baclao
Chris Tiu
Ryan Buenafe
Ogie Menor
Jake Pascual
Nigerian Sam Ekwe
JR Sena
John Wilson
JV Casio
Rico Maierhofer
Peejay Barua
Jervy Cruz
Edwin Asoro
Arvie Bringas
RP youth dribblers Samuel Joseph Marata Jr.
Ryan Roose Garcia (performed well during the recent FIBA-Asia Youth Championship)
6-foot-11 Gregory Slaughter
6-foot-9 Junmar Fajardo
6-foot-9 Japeth Aguilar
6-foot-11 Gian Tiu

These are the short-listed players mentioned in the Inquirer report today as Team Pilipinas' prospects and it came directly from Noli Eala, SBP executive director. The Cebuano basketball players invited by Toroman aren't on the list. Oh well, this isn't final anyway and nothing is definite yet. I'll keep you posted for any developments. The final list will be given to Coach Rajko Toroman for evaluation. Some of these players will represent the country in the 2010 Asian Games and 2011 FIBA-Asia Championship.

I think newspaper reports said Maierhoffer and Casio might turn pro next year after the UAAP championship disappointment this year. How will the SBP stop that? They already lost Kevin De La Pena to the PBA.

If PBA thinks it could escape the blame, then they are wrong. Just in case (God forbid) this SBP team fail to qualify for the London Olympics, people will still hit the PBA for being selfish with its players. All of us know the best players in the country are in the PBA and for them not to represent the country says something about the league. Some people will reason out that PBA is business. Yes, it is business I understand that but playing for the country is the best Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility ploy the league could ever do. Just imagine if a PBA-backed national team actually qualifies for the Olympics, it is a great honor for the league. After winning the World Cup in 1998, French Ligue experienced a surge in attendance and popularity not just in Marseille - the traditional stronghold of football in France.

2008 CESAFI BASKETBALL FINALS

University of Visayas Green Lancers defeated University of San Jose - Recoletos 86 - 74 to win the first game of the best of five CESAFI championship series yesterday at the Cebu Coliseum. Von Harry Lanete scored 14 points to lead the Green Lancers to victory.

GUIAO'S TEAM PILIPINAS PLAN: WILL THEY EVER LEARN?

Is this Team Pilipinas' theme song?

After making his feelings known towards Toroman, Coach Yeng Guiao has unveiled his plans for the PBA-backed Team Pilipinas.

1. Guiao will name all the players who made it to the national pool (his prospects - not yet the final list).
2. He will have a dialogue with his prospects to see if the player fits his system.
3. He required at least one naturalized player preferably 7-feet and above (What about Slaughter and Fajardo when will the powers-that-be use them?).
4. Shocking news: Full preparation will proceed after the PBA season. According to the Manila Bulletin, it means Team Pilipinas will have three months to train and familiarize themselves with international brand of play. This has happened before and nothing good ever came out. The PBA-led national team only succeeded in embarrassing themselves because of unfamiliarity with the rules and lack of teamwork. I thought they will train for at least a year.

Credits: Manila Bulletin

Will you look at that! It is okay to hire a foreign player but not a foreign coach.

With three months of training can they do it? I would have a different opinion if Team Pilipinas trained for a year. Are they underestimating their opponents? Geesh, they have not really learned from past mistakes.

Experts cite these two reasons why our national team doesn't fare well in FIBA competitions

1. unfamiliarity with rules and with each other
2. lack of team work

I don't think three months is enough to cure these inherent weakness of our team. They are repeating old habits which will ensure same results.

I don't pretend to be an expert but we have seen our teams do this before and end up with nothing. I was hoping for a different plan for Team Pilipinas but it didn't happen.

Frankly, I'm more excited with SBP-backed Team Pilipinas than this one.

CESAFI BASKETBALL PLAYERS PICKED BY THE SERBIAN COACH

THESE ARE THE CEBUANO BALLERS WHO CAUGHT TOROMAN'S ATTENTION

CESAFI All-Stars vs. San Miguel Beermen

In addition to the Manila-based picks, these are the CESAFI players in Toroman's wish list.

Harry Von Lañete,
Chris Diputado
Chad Harlow Villanil
Luther Luke Justiniani
Emel Rowe
Gregory Slaughter
Junmar Fajardo

Other players were not named in the Sunstar report.

These players were invited to attend Toroman's three-day basketball workshop in Manila from which the cagers would get the chance to be selected in the national team pool. I use Cebuano loosely here for some players might be originally from Mindanao or other areas but Cebu-based I hope you don't mind.

I hope we could watch the scrimmages come November. Somebody cover it and upload to Youtube. Please!!!

As much as I would like to watch CESAFI I can't for all college basketball leagues covered are from Manila.

ANOTHER CEBUANO BASKETBALL GIANT; 2008 CESAFI FINAL FOUR RESULTS

Where do they get these giants (Slaughter is the other one)?



I got intrigued by the name Junmar Fajardo (University of Cebu Webmasters) as his name keeps popping up in news sites. I checked his credentials and boy talk about massive potential. I posted an article about him on the other site as I don't have much time. Coach Rajko Toroman will be going to Cebu soon to scout for more talents and I hope Junmar gets picked for the national pool. The poster in Philstar.com is correct - Toroman will be surprised at the height of the Southern Philippine players.

Wow, Cebu is really producing giants nowadays. I remember when Gregory Slaughter was new people in Youtube began bashing him as overhype and a joke. Now the guy developed into an unstoppable force even winning the MVP award in the CESAFI All-stars. Many doubters became believers. Still the question is when will Fajardo and Slaughter be picked for the national team? The answer I want to hear is either NOW or SOON (as players in Toroman's team).

If these big guys are trained properly, then there'll be no need for a naturalized player in our national team in the future (though we need one in the immediate term).

I'm also interested in 6-4 Emel Rowe the offensive weapon for the University of San Carlos Warriors. I've also heard a lot about this guy. I will feature him soon.

2008 CESAFI FINAL FOUR RESULTS

USJR (85) — Amores 16, Justiniani 15, Gudez 15, Ponce 11, Delfino 10, Pogoy 6, Gabas 4, Malinao 2, Villaver 2, Bibera 2, Pateño 2

UC (80) – Fajardo 30, Abella 16, Ramos 11, Quilantang 11, Pao 8, Luceño 4, Mohamad 3

UV (72) – Dennison 22, Lao 11, Diputado 10, Lanete 10, Slaughter 10, Cincoflores 4, Villanil 3

USC (52) – Rowe 11, Bautista 8, Cantonao 8, Padillo 7, Cortes 4, Bakker 4, Joven 4, Llanto 4

Credits: The Freeman

So it will UV and USJR in the CESAFI basketball finals. The best of five series will start on Wednesday at the Cebu Coliseum. Good luck on both teams!

RAJKO TOROMAN TO COACH TEAM PILIPINAS FOR THE LONDON OLYMPICS

Toroman has no idea yet how basketball politics affect player choices here

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) hired Serbian Rajko Toroman to coach the Philippine national team to the 2012 London Olympics according to an article from the Philippine Star. The contract will take effect on October 15. His job is to handle the non-PBA national team and to assist in the development of local coaches. Coach Toroman will go to Cebu to scout for more talents. So far the opposition hasn't railed the decision at the moment.

Players

Rabeh Al-Hussaini
Nonoy Baclao
Chris Tiu
Ryan Buenafe
Rico Maierhofer
Jayvee Casio
Ogie Menor
Jake Pascual
Mark Sena
John Wilson
Arvie Bringas ( still in high school!)
Kelvin dela Peña

The PBA will stop representing the country after 2010 World Championship. So we will be the only basketball-loving country in the world whose professional league doesn't want to represent their country. I wonder if the NBA and the Euroleague players could represent their country why can't ours? The SBP was forced to use the Northern Cement type of preparation rather than the established norm WORLDWIDE in which a country's best players which are usually in the pro leagues play for their flag because of...you know the reason short-sighted leaders.

Manu Ginobili played for his country in the Olympics despite having an injury. He doesn't have to be told what to do. He knows his duty. The San Antonio Spurs tried to dissuade him but couldn't. In fact, it's a no-brainer for Ginobili. If he could play he will play for his flag.

I think the PBA should change its name to EBA (Entertainers Basketball Association) after 2010. What's the use of this league anyway? Yes to entertain! Then, they should stop using the country's name since they are already set on turning their backs away from representing this proud nation.

There are people who actually believe it's not the PBA's job to represent the country. With thinking such as this, no wonder our country's in the dumps.

The biggest problem now is how to keep these talented amateurs from turning pro and earn millions. Coach Toroman wanted Kevin De La Pena but the guy's is already with the Alaska Aces in the PBA so one talented player lost already because of this inane set-up. The players will sign a contract with SBP to continue their national service even when they are in the professional league. But what about the late bloomers (players who prospered later in the professional league but was missed out by SBP)? What should we do with these players? Just imagine if they could be the missing piece of our national team but can't play because they weren't part of the SBP pool of players?

So I have one more reason not to watch the PBA. I mean why would I watch a league which doesn't even want to be bothered representing the country? They know how important basketball is to the Filipino people but the league can't even share the players!

I'm sorry to the people involved in the PBA. I'm just airing out my grievances to this cold-hearted stance I hope you understand.

I do wish the next leader of the league has more sense of responsibility towards the country like Mr. Eala was. I love the PBA more back when he was Commissioner. He communicated to the Filipino people that the PBA cared about the country's honor. It was well-received. After the Tokushima stint and all the Team Pilipinas players were back to their mother teams the league experienced an upsurge in attendance because of their heroic performance in the FIBA-Asia tournament. Know we know Alapag, Helterbrand and Raymundo etc. are world-class players. I salute Mr. Eala. Thank you sir!

COACH YENG GUIAO'S LINE UP FOR TEAM PILIPINAS

Not Yet Final. Guiao's Wish List

Team Pilipinas previous games highlights

Here are some of the players Coach Yeng is seriously considering to include in the national team:

Mark Caguioa
Jayjay Helterbrand
Jimmy Alapag
Kelly Williams
Gabe Norwood
Willie Miller
James Yap
Cyrus Baguio
Ryan Reyes
Japeth Aguilar
Asi Taulava
Mick Pennisi
PLUS a naturalized player

Only one naturalized player is allowed per team (FIBA rules).

So far the reaction from fans (Philstar comments section and interbasket) was lukewarm esp. on Taulava and Pennisi because of their ages (35 and 33 years old respectively). Like most Team Pilipinas fans, I'm wondering when will the powers-that-be in Philippine basketball use Gregory Slaughter (the real big man from Cebu)? I think the guy needs to get the experience now. How about that super rookie Ryan Buenafe? I agree with most fans' assessment that our team's a bit old.

According to the Philstar report, Coach Yeng will finalize the line-up after the PBA Philippine Cup (however the pool will already be in place before the said tournament will end).

There are bound to be changes in the line up as this is not final yet. I do hope Coach Yeng bring along Arwind Santos and Lourdy Tugade.

By the way, since there are no reports to the contrary it must mean Coach Yeng Guiao is still the coach of Red Bull. What? I thought lessons were already learned about hiring a part-time national coach. Oh well...

When are they going to start training? We all know time is of the essence.

"We’ll begin once I realize that this is not a dream," Guiao said in an interview with GMA News.

YENG GUIAO APPOINTED PHILIPPINE NATIONAL TEAM COACH

It's about time!

Yeng Guiao in a Press Conference

Yeng Guiao was appointed as the Philippine national team coach yesterday according to a report from the Philippine Star. His main responsibility is to guide the country in qualifying for the 2010 World Championship in Turkey. He knows the formidability of the task at hand but is willing to take it.

“I’m nervous at this point because I know the task is daunting, the responsibility great. I accept it wholeheartedly. It’s a big decision by the commissioner. I don’t want to disappoint him and the country in general in terms of putting up a good performance,” Guiao told the Philippine Star.

Coach Yeng already has a firm vision of his team in mind preferring "quick running team which can shoot and defend well".

I like Coach Yeng's style anyway. He prefers to stick to the system rather than rely on star players and has led his Red Bull team to semifinals appearance in the process. I'm glad the decision came more swiftly than I expected (after the recent hulaballo). Of course, some observers (in Gameface.ph) see this appointment as a way to appease the Basketball Coaches Association of the Philippines which strongly opposes foreign coaches. Some howls of frustration were expressed as the national team players will adjust to a new system again. Some people objected Guiao's selection because of his inexperience in international play (see comments below the source Philstar article). To counteract this, he asked the PBA Commissioner to form an advisory panel composed of former national coaches. Hopefully, it will materialize as he needs all the help he could get.

Congratulations Coach Yeng Guiao!

I'm looking forward to his lineup. Unlike previous coaches, he will do away with tedious tryouts and will choose players able and willing to serve the country.

It would be an awkward moment when he and Dondon Hontiveros meet again if he picks the latter to the national team hehe...(he got entangled with Dondon during a PBA game months ago).

Flashback - Yeng Guiao was a strong contender to coach Team Pilipinas in 2005 but was beaten by Chot Reyes' detailed plan for the national team.

I prefer a foreign coach to handle Team Pilipinas now but the responsibility of forming the national team rests on the PBA which of course will select its own.

SEE THE FUTURE OF PHILIPPINE BASKETBALL IN TRAINING

MEET GREGORY SLAUGHTER

Gregory Slaughter - the Giant Guy from University of the Visayas

Watch the training pool of the RP Youth Team in action. This is for the NCR region. Tryouts were also conducted nationwide in an effort to find the best of the best young cagers in the country. It is in preparation for the Southeast Asian Under 16 Championship next year. I'll keep you posted, my readers.

PHILIPPINES GRAB 7TH PLACE

Wins final match

Philippines won its final game against Lebanon 74 - 63 to finish seventh in the FIBA-Asia Under 18 Championship (assuming it is really an under 18 tournament with overage looking players abound). Great job by our boys! Better than the seniors who got 9th place last year.

4-Ryan Roose Garcia 178 cm G
5-Joseph Laslee Terso 178 cm G
6-Ian Paul Sangalang 200 cm C/F
7-Matthew Wright 188 cm G/F
8-Jaypee Mendoza 191 cm F
9-Samuel Joseph Marata 188 cm G/F
10-Frank Golla Jr. 193 cm C/F
11-Mark Joel De Guzman 183 cm G
12-Joseph Emmanuel Tolentino 182 cm G
13-Philip Paredes 196 cm C/F
14-Norberto Brian Torres 200 cm C
15-Gabriel Banal 190 cm F

Members of Team PILIPINAS.

details:

An air of warmth and familiarity filled the Azadi stadium as the RP and Lebanese Youth squads went through their pre-game drills. Gab Banal and Ahmad Ibrahim even threw their arms over each others’ shoulder and laughed as they talked like two buddies planning a night out.But when horn signaled the call of battle, friendships were put aside and the two armies collided with such ferocity that no one could predict who would prevail in the end and be declared 7th...

rpyouth


WE ARE PROUD OF YOU!

The score is 74 - 63 not 74-63

TEHRAN (FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Men): China pulled away from a level position in the third quarter to beat Korea 106-97 and bag the fifth position on Friday.

Incidentally, China and Korea had played for the title two years ago at Urumqi.

Philippines overcame initial hiccups to beat Lebanon 74-73 for the seventh place.

Scores


7th place play-off

Philippines 74 (Mark De Guzman 15, Matthew Wright 11, Jaypee Mendoza 10) bt Lebanon 63 (Ahmad Ibrahim 14, Hassan Maatouk 10, Raph Akl 10). Quarterwise Scores: 17-18, 40-34, 52-48.

S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia

corroborated by this post at Interbasket

maybe he should have added overs while he is at it!