PBA statement on Celino Cruz, Cyrus Baguio trade

SPORTS DESK PLEASE

DECEMBER 27, 2008

PRESS STATEMENT

Commissioner Sonny Barrios met with PBA Vice-Chairman Angelito Alvarez and Red Bull Governor Tony Chua at the PBA Office to clarify the trade involving Red Bull's Celino Cruz and Cyrus Baguio in exchange for Air21's 2011 and 2012 1st round draft picks.

After the assurances from both Alvarez and Chua that the both teams will positively address the Commissioner's concerns and will continue to uphold the league's rules and regulations, particularly those pertaining to the Team Salary Cap, the trade was approved accordingly.

UM captures fourth GS Cup

6TH GAISANO SOUTH CUP 2008


Colllege Div. 1 Finals – Result


Date: Dec. 12, 2008


Venue: Gaisano South Citimall Skygym


University of Mindanao captured its fourth GS Cup title by beating Agro Industrial Foundation College, 100 - 70 in Game 2 of the Best of three championship series.


Top scorers:


UM – Regular season and Finals MVP Arnold Adormeo – 22 pts, Ivan Cisneros – 19 pts, Gryann Mendoza – 11 pts, Michael Angalan – 10 pts.


AGRO – Eugene Torres – 18 pts, Mythical five member Clemente Ruiz – 16 pts, Richard Tano – 14 pts


Scoring by quarter:


UM – 20 – 25 – 17 – 38


AGRO – 12 – 15 – 18 – 23


Notes:


*

UM last won the title in 2006. UM did not join last year's season.
*

UM beat AGRO, 78 – 59 in Game 1
*

UM controlled the boards – offensive and defensive in Game 2
*

UM shot seven triples
*

AGR0 entered the finals last year but lost to Ateneo de Davao University in deciding Game 3.

150 kids join RRD clinic in Mintal

A total of 150 kids joined the Mayor RRD Basketball Clinic on November 24 to 25 at the Mintal gym.

The clinic was organized to spice up the 26th Araw ng Mintal celebrations that will end on December 5, according to Brgy.Mintal kagawad Benedict P. Adan.

“We are thankful that our kids had a very enjoyable basketball clinic,” said Adan.

Former PBA and MBA player Cadel Mosqueda led the two-day activity with the assistance of the Sports Development Division staff.

The kids learned the basics of shooting, dribbling and passing the ball and plays during actual games.

Adan said that other sports events are also being lined-up in Mintal like tennis, softball, invitational basketball.

DCPO draws first blood in 6th AFP-PNP Tournament

The Davao City Police Office booked its first win at the expense of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, 92-68 at the start of the 6th Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Vice Mayor Sara Duterte-AFP/PNP Basketball Tournament, Sunday afternoon, at the Bankerohan gym.

The DCPO cagers employed better defense and on many occasions shifted from man-to-man to double-guarding that forced the Jailmen to commit errors.

Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte formally opened the tournament and called on participants to just enjoy playing the game and keep their cool.


Duterte has also encouraged the law-enforcement personnel continue playing their scheduled games even if they are already out of contention.

"What's important is for you to play and enjoy the games. Taposin 'nyo ang laro," said Duterte.

As of presstime, the City Mayor's Office was playing the 10th Infantry Division and two other games were scheduled featuring the Police Regional Office XI against the 22nd Light Armor Company and the Bureau of Fire Protection against the Task Force Davao.

50 patients attend RRD basketball clinic at Rehab Center

Davao City’s drug rehabilitation center patients received a different kind of treatment for two days when the Mayor RRD basketball clinicians paid them a visit, recently, at Bago Oshiro.

Ex-PBA and MBA player Cadel Mosqueda and the rest of basketball clinicians taught them the proper exercises, ball handling, passing and dribbling drills.

Around 50 patients took part in the activity that gave them lessons about proper positioning during actual games for them to truly enjoy playing the sport because of the skills they have acquired.

Mosqueda personally led the conduct of the sessions with the assistance of the Sports Development Division staff.

The RRD basketball clinics have been conducted in the barangays for years and benefitted thousands of boys and girls.

Christopher “Bong” Go, Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte’s executive assistant, hopes that the patients will continue to work on their exercises and drills to help them in their recovery process.

Executives annex 17th Season title

Christopher “Bong” Go sparked a scoring run for the Executives in Game 6 to wrap up the 2008 Executive-Legislative Basketball Tournament-17th Season, four games to two, recently, at the Montana gym.

Go, Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte’s executive assistant, kept on sniping from the outside and teammates Ariel Bonleon and Melchor Gadiano stepped up with the rest of the Executive squad to trounce the Legislators led by Councilor Diosdado Mahipus, 105-100.

Mahipus and his teammates started to go strong to the basket in the final quarter but the Executives re-organized well to disappoint again their rivals.

The Executives protected a small lead, 29-27 in the first quarter but played consistently in the second and third quarters to keep the Legislators at bay.

The scores:

Executives (105)- Bong Go 19, Escoton 18, Bonleon 15, Escorido 15, Gadiano 13, Alquizar 10, Labor 8, Ortega 5.

Legislators (100)- Montalban 35, de Guzman 20, Mahipus 13, Araneta 10, Plarisan 10, Acero 6, Casan 6.

JAWO TALKS ABOUT THE RP TEAM

Leave it to Robert S. Jaworski, the living legend of Philippine basketball, to break the ice as only he can, comment on a burning issue as only he dares, and leave listeners chewing on bits and pieces of information as only he is wont to.

Answering an invitation from PBA commissioner Renauld 'Sonny' Barrios to become part of an advisory group requested by national coach Yeng Guiao, Jaworski was in his elements Monday night at EDSA Shangri-La just after the landmark meeting.

Asked what he and Guiao talked about initially, Jaworski deadpanned: "Tinanong ako ni Yeng kung puwede raw akong maglaro. E sabi ko…"

When the sportswriters broke up in laughter, Jaworski smoothed in: "Tatawa-tawa kayo, e di hawakan nyo muscle ko."

Looking fit and in shape, and striking in light yellow jacket and green collared shirt, the man known as the 'Big J' thanked Guiao for the invitation, calling it "an honor" to be asked to "contribute in our own little way some positive experience, additional knowledge, and insights from past tournaments."

Jaworski, who led the first PBA-backed national team to a silver medal finish in the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, was joined by 1984 RP-Hiroshima Games coach Norman Black, 2002 RP-Busan Games mentor Jong Uichico, and 2007 RP-Tokushima Olympic qualifier coach Chot Reyes.

An emergency that arose kept Tim Cone, the 1998 RP-Bangkok Asian Games mentor, from being with the council of national coaches which Guiao sought preparatory to forming the RP team for the FIBA-Asia World Championship qualifier in September 2009.

"I understand that we'll be asked to drop by the practice from time to time, and also to list down our so-called Dream Team for Yeng's consideration," Jaworski said.

"We'll probably look at it together and maybe come up with a team that everybody believes is the right group."

Jaworski, whose charismatic persona and aggressive brand of play stirred fan adulation like no other basketball player in the country, said he might attend PBA games every now and then to scout candidates for his list.

"That's not a bad idea," he said. "But I want you to know that I've been present in the games, mentally and in my soul."

Jaworski was apparently alluding to the Ginebra-Air21 Fiesta Conference Finals last season where Express governor Lito Alvarez revealed Jaworski had played a role in as a behind-the-scenes coaching consultant.

"I know what's going on. I saw those game. Gusto ko ngang pumunta non kaya lang wala kasi akong upuan e...dahil punong-puno."

Two recent issues – the planned acquisition of a naturalized 7-footer for the national team and the unconfirmed hiring of foreign national coach – drew passionate reaction from Jaworski.

Instead of naturalizing a foreigner which would "always involve a question of law," Jaworski suggested that a search be made for a tall player with Filipino lineage that would make him eligible to "vote and play basketball" under the Dual Citizen Law.

"We have so many overseas Filipino workers. Spread the word around for a 20-, 25-, 30-year old half-Filipino player who didn't qualify, say, for the German national team. Then have him come over."

Jaworski also is not keen on the hiring of a foreign coach to handle the national team.

"It's a little way off. Honestly, I hope you don't mind, I don't have anything against foreign coaches, but we have to have some degree of pride at the right time," he said.

"What if you have a foreign coach and the national team wins? What do you achieve? 'Champion kami!' Who's your coach? 'A Scaramooch.'"

A two-month seminar where the foreign mentor can pass on his "best attributes and best messages" to local coaches who already have international experience, Jaworski believed, "can produce very, very good results."

Stories about him making a comeback in the PBA as coach of the Air21 Express, Jaworski said, will have to be left as stories – for now.

"They (Express owner Bert Lina and his family) are good friends, wonderful people," the former Ginebra playing-coach said. "But it's just that at this time of my life, there are a couple of small things that I'm putting together and so… But I'm not closing the door to anything."

Is preparing for the 2010 national elections one of the small things he is putting together?

"If there's going to be honest-to-goodness electoral reforms and I can pull off my athletes and sports people together, I will venture," Jaworski said.

"But at the moment, lest we see that, I do my humble things like this one – being invited and coming over to see what help I could extend to the sport that has been my life."

GUIAO TO RETAIN SEVEN PLAYERS THAT PLAYED IN TOKUSHIMA

National coach Yeng Guiao's last statement in Monday night's council of coaches meeting at EDSA Shangri-La turned out to be the most revealing.

"At least 60 to 70 percent of that RP-Tokushima team will be retained. Mga apat o lima na lang ang idagdag," said Guiao at the close of his first consultation session with former mentors of PBA-backed RP teams.

Present was Robert Jaworski, coach of the first all-pro squad that came in second to China in the Beijing Asian Games in 1990.

Also in attendance were Norman Black, the 1994 RP-Hiroshima mentor, Jong Uichico, who handled the 2002 RP-Busan selection, and Chot Reyes, who formed the 2007 RP-Tokushima Olympic qualifier squad from which Guiao will be picking seven or eight players for the 2009 FIBA-Asia World Championship qualifier in Guangzhou, China.

Based on the length of exposure and the statistical contribution they had in last year's qualifying tournament for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, hugging the inside track should be Kelly Williams of Sta. Lucia Realty, Asi Taulava of Coca-Cola, Mick Pennisi of San Miguel Beer, Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa of Ginebra, Jimmy Alapag of Talk 'N Text, Gabe Norwood of Rain or Shine, and Kerby Raymundo of Purefoods.

That would leave four slots – maybe three if 6-10 Japeth Aguilar of Western Kentucky, son of former Northern Consolidated center Peter Aguilar, makes it from the United States – from the Magic 12.

Jockeying for position could be James Yap of Purefoods, Willie Miller and Sonny Thoss of Alaska, Cyrus Baguio of Red Bull, Arwind Santos of Air21, Ryan Reyes of Sta. Lucia, and Jay-R Reyes of Rain or Shine.

"Very fruitful and enlightening," said Guiao of the landmark session. "I I'm asking their help in the formulation of the final lineup, I want them to critic the lineup that I'm going to show them before it is announced to the public."

A 15-man lineup is expected to be released in two weeks time, with practice to commence on Nov. 17 at the Ynares Sports Coliseum in Pasig.

Given the uncertainty of Guiao's initial plan to acquire a 7-foot foreign player for naturalization, no significant step was taken towards that direction during the conference arranged by PBA commissioner Renauld 'Sonny' Barrios.

"There might be some legal obstacle, but I don't think we should stop entertaining that idea," Guiao said. "However, I'm also ready to accept the fact that it might not be in this team."

Given the "one-shot-deal" nature of coaching a national team in the country, Guiao said, gathering former RP coaches for a pow-wow is the best option available.

"The way they can help me actually is for them to tell me what their mistakes were, and I will try not to repeat them," Guiao said.

"I'm going to step into their shoes and they're going to step into mine and we'll consolidate all that knowledge and experience. Certainly I will make mistakes, but hopefully fewer."

With the possibility of the tournament getting brought up one month ahead of the September schedule because of Ramadan, the Muslim religious observance which features sunrise-to-sunset fasting, Guiao said extra efforts will be needed to cover for lost training time.

"My estimate is the the team to play at least 20 games internationally, in Qatar, the Jones Cup, and in Europe, before the tournament," he said.

But if the schedule is adjusted, then we may just have to drop the Europe stint and concentrate on the Jones Cup and Qatar. Another possibility is to invite foreign teams for a mini-tournament here like they did before."

“SMART-PILIPINAS TEAM DEPARTS FOR ASIAN BEACH GAMES IN BALI”

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc.



The Smart-Pilipinas 3 on 3 team competing in the first ever beach basketball of the 1st Asian Beach Games in Bali, Indonesia departs tonight for the island paradise with high hopes of garnering a medal for the Philippine delegation. The delegation will be led by SBP Executive Director Noli Eala, SBP Youth Commission Chairman Nic Jorge, Head Coach Britt Reroma and bannered by 4 up and coming young players of the Youth pool including 3 players who were part of the RP Youth team that competed recently in the Asian Jr. Men’s Championship in Tehran, Iran. They are Joseph Tolentino, Samuel Marata, Papot Paredes and Arthur De La Cruz.

The Smart-Pilipinas National team which is backed by Smart Sports, Cebu Pacific and Nike and sanctioned by the SBP, POC and PSC will leave on board Cebu Pacific flight 5J 759 via Jakarta onward to Bali, Indonesia where a majority of the RP delegation is already competing in other water and beach events.

“We are very confident the boys will play well and hopefully land a podium finish,” Eala stated. “It’s a big honor for the SBP to be included in this historic event and we will try our best to make the country proud of our young team,” he added.

The Beach basketball event is a 3 on 3 tourney using FIBA 33 rules. The setting will be outdoor on a makeshift half court situated in one of the competition areas along the Bali coastline. The Smart-Pilipinas team debuts against Thailand on Friday afternoon before playing favourite Japan on Saturday in the single round prelimaries of Group B. Group A is composed of Singapore, India, Malaysia and host Indonesia. Top teams of each group will advance to the finals on Sunday where the teams are assured of a silver medal.

“All the teams are big, young and tough. But we’ve prepared hard at sa awa ng Diyos at dasal natin lahat aabot ang mga bata sa finals”, Jorge said.

PBA tv rating, gates up

As Wall Street continues to reel from the global financial crisis, the Philippine Basketball Association recorded big gains in terms television rating as well as at the turnstile.

According to a survey conducted by AGB AC Nielsen, the first five gamedays of the 2008-09 KFC PBA Philippine Cup enjoyed an average rating of 5.48 under the watch of its new network partner Solar Sports. This represents an increase of 63 percent compared to the ratings generated by the first five gamedays of the same conference last year.

More significantly, the latest rating marks the highest the PBA has recorded in the last four years when the games were still covered by ABC 5.

Starting with the 2008-09 season, Asia's first play-for-pay league is now being produced by Solar Sports, which holds the rights to the games over a period of three years. The PBA games are being aired on C/S 9 (free TV) and Basketball TV (cable).

"It's heart-warming and inspiring considering the financial crisis confronting the country and the world," said league commissioner Renauld "Sonny" Barrios, reacting to the AGB AC Nielsen report. "It goes to show that the PBA is still the nation's No.1 sports entertainment."

He added: "I would like to assure the fans that their continued support gives us all the more reason to serve them better and try to make the games even more exciting."

Viewership of Barangay Ginebra's first game of the season against defending champion Sta. Lucia Realty, according to the survey, drew a rating of 7.2, surpassing the ratings of the 2007 Philippine Cup Finals between the Realtors and the Purefoods TJ Giants, except for the deciding seventh game. Game 7 of that titular series recorded a high 12.98 TV rating.

The Ginebra – Sta. Lucia tiff likewise approximated the TV ratings of the Fiesta Conference Finals between the eventual champion Kings and the Air21 Express.

Apparently, the league is also doing good at the gates.

According to Barrios, the first eight games of the season have attracted 47,048 live viewers or an average of 6,721.1 per playdate.

The PBA Wednesday, Friday and Sunday doubleheaders are being played alternately at the Araneta Coliseum, the Cuneta Astrodome and the Ynares Center in Antipolo while Thursday games are being held at so-called "non-traditional" venues such as the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City and the Olivarez College Gym in Paranaque.

Collegiate Champions League update

Collegiate Champions League update
by gameface.ph (10/1908)

The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, the Lyceum of the Philippines Pirates, Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals and St. Claire College Saints survived the grueling “Wild Card” phase of the SMART-PLDT-KFC 2008 Philippine Collegiate Championship games recently completed at the Makati Coliseum.

The cast of teams in the zonal championship are the following:

Zone 1 – St. Louis University, Champion-Ilocos/Baguio; University of Luzon, Champion-Pangasinan/Pampanga; Mapua Cardinals, NCAA fourth placer; Arellano University Chiefs, Fr. Martin Cup; Lyceum University-Batangas, NCAA-South runner-up; and University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers, Wild Card Qualifier.

Zone 2 – University of Nueva Caceres Greyhounds, Champion-Quezon/Bicol; Don Bosco College-Mandaluyong, Champion-NCAA-South; University of the East Warriors, UAAP fourth placer; and Lyceum of the Philippines Pirates, Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals and St. Claire College Saints, Wild Card Qualifiers.

Zone 3 – BIT International College Cruisers, Champion-Bohol/Dumaguete; AMA Computers Titans, Champion-Ormoc/Tacloban; University of San Jose Recoletos Jaguars, CESAFI runner-up; Letran College, NCAA third placer; University of Cebu Webmasters, Wild Card Qualifier; and Bacolod/Iloilo Champion (ongoing regional finals at Bacolod).

Zone 4 – Xavier University Crusaders, Champion-Cagayan de Oro; University of Mindanao Wildcats, Champion-Davao/GenSan; Ateneo de Zamboanga, Champion-Zamboanga provinces; Far Eastern University

Tamaraws, UAAP third placer; University of San Carlos Warriors, CESAFI third placer; and Capitol University Stallions, Wild Card Qualifier.
For more details about the biggest collegiate basketball event for the year presented by SMART, PLDT, FilOil Flying V and KFC visit the official website, www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net and www.gameface.ph, internet media partner of PCCL.

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WPBL tryout draws 125 players
by philippinebasketballleague.org (10/1908)

If the number is use as an indication, then the Women’s Philippine Basketball League (WPBL) – back after almost a decade of absence – will be a lot more fun and exciting this year.

A total of 125 aspirants – some of them coming as far as Cebu – showed up during the open tryout held yesterday at the Jose Rizal University gym in Mandaluyong City which is a clear manifestation that women’s basketball is still alive and kicking in the country.

PBL officials, led by Commissioner Chino Trinidad, Deputy Commissioner Tommy Ong, Executive Director Butch Maniego and chairman Mikee Romero of Harbour Centre were very satisfied with the turnout of the one-day tryout supervised by Joey Guanio and Jigs Mendoza.

“The number of participants is a good indication of what to expect in the coming tournament. If only we have 20 teams for the coming tournament then we can accommodate them all,” said Romero, the man responsible for the revival of the event. “Halos lahat nagpakita ng galling para makasama sa WPBL.”

“With this number of aspirants, we have a bright future ahead when it comes to women’s basketball. It’s really my dream to win both the men’s and women’s divisions in the SEA Games,” added Romero.

Also present were Patrick “Pato” Gregorio of Smart Sports under the company of telecommunication mogul Manny V. Pangilinan, Haydee Ong of Nutri-C under the company of Jun Sy of Nokia, Pat Aquino of Ever Bilena, Chito Narvasa and Tanny Gonzales of Muscle Tape-Lyceum and representatives from Discovery Suite, Pharex, Bacchus Energy Drink and Oracle Residence.

Trinidad and Romero will announce today the final composition of the tournament today.

“We see at least 10 teams competiting in the coming tournament. But I hope our other regular members will take part in the next conference,” said Trinidad.

Maniego said the drafting of the players will be held either on Tuesday or Wednesday.

“SBP BOLSTERS YOUTH BASKETBALL PROGRAM”

After its very successful Nokia-Tao National Basketball Training Center for the elite youth, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) is strengthening its grassroots youth programs through 3 forthcoming tournaments which the national sports association for basketball is pursuing.

Spearheaded by its Youth Commission, the SBP is sending a delegation to the 1st Asian Beach Games in Bali, Indonesia to compete in the Beach Basketball event from October 22-26, 2008. The Smart-Pilipinas 3 on 3 team will be composed of 4 up and coming young players of the Youth pool including 3 players who were part of the RP Youth team that competed recently in the Asian Jr. Men’s Championship in Tehran, Iran. They are Joseph Tolentino, Samuel Marata, Papot Paredes and Arthur De La Cruz. The delegation will be led by SBP Executive Director Noli Eala, SBP Youth Commission Chairman Nic Jorge, Team Manager and Smart Marketing Head Danilo Mojica and Head Coach Britt Reroma.

The Smart-Pilipinas National team, which is in the group of Japan and Thailand, is hoping to provide the Philippine delegation with a medal in the newly introduced biennial event. “The SBP is honored to be part of this historic inaugural event. The boys have prepared hard and we are hopeful we will perform well,” Jorge said.

Aside from its participation in the Beach Games, the SBP is busy preparing to stage two major youth tourneys in 2009. These are the National Junior Championship slated to be held in Baguio City from January 11-18, 2009 and the National 33 Open Championship to be held in the summer of 2009.

The NJC will feature 20 of the best high school teams of the country vying for the national inter secondary crown. The top 20 teams will be taken from the various regions of the SBP through provincial and regional eliminations. The NJC will be the first national tournament directly managed and organized by the SBP through its Regional Directors and Area Heads.

On the other hand, the National 33 Open Championship will pit the best 3 on 3 teams all over the Philippines in various age group categories playing for the first time under FIBA 33 rules. The winners of the Open will be automatically included in the pool that will represent the Philippines in the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010.

“These programs are a manifestation of the SBP’s commitment under MVP to long term youth development. The youth sector is a priority area of the SBP. It is our hope that by providing the youth more opportunities for competitive tournaments, we can bolster the future of Philippine basketball for international competitions, “ Eala stated.

Free RRD Basketball Clinic goes to far-flung Brgy.Lumiad

Basketball clinicians goes to far-flung Brgy.Lumiad in Paquibato District for the Mayor RRD Basketball Clinic on Thursday, October 16, until Friday, October 17.

Former Philippine Basketball Association and Metropolitan Basketball Association player Cadel Mosqueda and veteran clinician Alberto Malinao will teach young boys and girls the basics of shooting, dribbling and passing for the next two days including simple plays and drills.

Aside from the basics, the team from the Sports Development Division-City Mayor's Office will also inculcate upon the participants the importance of engaging in sports activities at an early age and how this will develop strong bodies and minds.

The clinics have benefitted hundreds of boys and girls in Davao City as a component of the Duterte Basketball League which is also ongoing.

Christopher "Bong" Go, the mayor's executive assistant, said that the clinics are one way of keeping the youth into sports and encourage them to stay in sports activities.

Saint Louie University Bags Region 1 Collegiate Title

Saint Louie University Bags Region 1 Collegiate Title
by gameface.ph (10/07/08)

Saint Louie University, champion of the Baguio collegiate league, captured the Region 1 championship of the SMART-PLDT 2008 Philippine Collegiate Championship games by edging out the other Baguio City qualifier, Cordillera Career Development Center, 93 to 86, in the finals held last Monday, October 6, at the University of Northern Philippines gym, Vigan City.

The two teams arranged an all-Baguio finals with Saint Louie U beating the Vigan champion, University of Northern Phils., 77 to 69. CCDC, on the other hand, defeated the Mariano Marcos State University, 80 to 64.

Saint Louie University brought home the regional champion cup and the certificate of award for athletic items courtesy of Sonak Sports, distributor of Molten, official ball of PCCL.

The team also earned a seat into the Zonal competitions and will join the NCAA fourth placer, Mapua Cardinals, the NCAA-South runner-up, Lyceum of the Philippines University - Batangas, the Region 2 champion and two wild card entries. The top two in the zonal championships will join the elite group in the FilOil Flying V “Sweet 16” Final Challenge in Manila.

Apart from Saint Louie U, the other regional champions are: University of Nueva Caceres Greyhounds (Region 3- Naga/Quezon); BIT International College Cruisers (Region 5- Bohol/Dumaguete); AMA Computer Learning Center Titans (Region 6-Tacloban/Ormoc); Xavier University (Region 7-Cag. De Oro/Mis. Oriental) and Ateneo de Zamboanga Blue Eagles (Region 9-Zamboanga provinces)

The other regional championships to be played this week are the Region 2 (Pangasinan/Pampanga), October 9 & 10 at Divine World Academy gym, Dagupan City and Region 8 (Davao/GenSan), October 9 & 10 at the Gaisano gym, Davao City.

For more details about the biggest collegiate basketball event for the year sponsored by SMART and PLDT, visit the official website, www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net.

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Ateneo de Zamboanga Blue Eagles Region 9 Champion
by gameface.ph (10/06/08)

Ateneo de Zamboanga Blue Eagles, the Zamboanga City collegiate champion, captured the Region 9 championship of the SMART-PLDT 2008 Philippine Collegiate Championship games by beating the Dipolog Medical Center College Lifesavers, 72 to 48, in the finals held during the weekend at the Zamboanga City coliseum.

The Blue Eagles arranged the final meeting with the DMC Lifesavers by beating in succession the Saint Vincent College of Dipolog (86-75), the Kabasalan Institute of Technology from Sibugay (98-84) and the Universidad de Zamboanga-Zamboanga City (84-70).

DMC Lifesavers on the other hand defeated the Universidad de Zamboanga-Sibugay, 83-63, the Universidad de Zamboanga-Zamboanga City, 86-82 and the Saint Vincent College of Dipolog, 68-61 before losing on a onesided championship game to the Ateneo de Zamboanga Blue Eagles.

The Blue Eagles of Zamboanga City received the regional champion cup and the certificate of award for athletic items courtesy of Sonak Sports, distributor of Molten, official ball of PCCL.

The Blue Eagles also earned a seat into the Zonal competitions and will join the UAAP third placer, Far Eastern University Tamaraws, Xavier University (Region 7 champion), the CESAFI third placer, the Region 8 champion and a wild card entry. The top two in the zonal championships will join the elite group in the FilOil Flying V “Sweet 16” Final Challenge in Manila.

Rey Gamboa, Philippine Collegiate Champions League chairman, announced that the other regional championship games to be played this week are the Region 1 (Ilocos/Baguio), October 5 & 6 at University of Northern Phils. Gym, Vigan City, the Region 2 (Pangasinan/Pampanga), October 9 & 10 at Divine World Academy gym, Dagupan City and Region 8 (Davao/GenSan), October 9 & 10 at the Gaisano gym, Davao City.

www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net
For more details about the biggest collegiate basketball event for the year sponsored by SMART and PLDT, visit the official website, www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net.

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AMA Titans Capture Region 6 Championship
by gameface.ph (10/02/08)

AMA Computer Learning Center Titans, the Ormoc collegiate league champion, captured the Region 6 championship of the SMART-PLDT 2008 Philippine Collegiate Championship games by beating the Eastern Visayas State University Hawks, 76 to 72, in the finals held at the Ormoc City Superdome.

The Titans crushed the Saint Paul Business School Angels of Tacloban, 88 to 57, to arrange the finals meeting with Eastern Visayas State University Hawks that edged the Western Leyte College Mustangs, 66-60.

PCCL National Tournament Director, Coach Joe Lipa, awarded to the AMA Titans the regional champion cup and the certificate of award for athletic items courtesy of Sonak Sports, distributor of Molten, official ball of PCCL.

The AMA Titans also earned a seat into the Zonal competitions and will join the NCAA third placer, Letran Knights, BIT International College Cruisers (Region 5 champion), the CESAFI runner-up, the Region 4 champion and a wild card entry. The top two in the zonal championships will join the elite group in the FilOil Flying V “Sweet 16” Final Challenge in Manila.

In Cebu, the University of Visayas Green Lancers are defending their CESAFI crown against the University of San Jose Recoletos Jaguars in a best of five series starting this weekend. The CESAFI champion automatically earns a seat in the elite “Sweet 16” Final Challenge while the runner-up and third placer will go through the zonal phase.
For more details about the biggest collegiate basketball event for the year sponsored by SMART and PLDT, visit the official website, www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net

Champion's League Regionals Finals on Thursday

Davao Region's top four squads will square off on Thursday, 1:30 p.m., in the 2008 Champion's League Regional Finals at the Gaisano South Sky gym.

Entered are University of Mindanao and Jose Maria College from Davao City and Gen.Santos City's Ramon Magsaysay Memorial College and Holy Trinity College.

The second game is scheduled at 3 p.m.


The winner of the regional level eliminations will advance to the Mindanao Finals on November 11 to 15 either in Cagayan de Oro City or Davao City. The Mindanao champion will qualify to the Sweet Sixteen where at stake is the slot to represent the Philippines to the Universiade in July 2009 in Serbia.

Next RRD basketball clinic in Matina Biao

The next swing of the 2008 Mayor RRD Basketball Clinic is on October 11 to 12 at the Matina Biao gym.

Young boys and girls interested to join the free sessions are requested to come early to the gym for the registration and for the orientation that will be handled by former PBA and MBA player Cadel Mosqueda and veteran clinician Alberto Malinao of the Sports Development Division.

Mosqueda and Malinao will also lead in the exercises as well as on the drills and basic plays.

The clinic, which started in May 2003, aims to introduce the youth the basics of the country’s No.1 sport and for them to enjoy the benefits of engaging in sports at an early age.

FBL '08 starts Nov.15

The Futures Basketball League (FBL) 2008 gets going on November 15 in
Davao City, according to organizer Niño Sinco.

He said that Holy Trinity College of Gen.Santos City, last year's
second placers in the junior's division, is expected again to see
action against the other Davao City-based schools.

Holy Child School of Davao, Stella Maris Academy of Davao, Daniel R.
Aguinaldo National High, Nikkei Jin Kai School, Ateneo de Davao, Holy
Cross of Davao, Assumption College of Davao, Magallanes Elementary
School, Davao Central College, St.Peter's College of Toril, University
of the Immaculate Conception and Emar Learning Center are among the
teams expected to field squads in the boy's mini, midgets, juniors and
girl's juniors divisions of the tournament backed by Primovit,
Purefoods, Gatorade and Philips.

For more information, contact (0920)6079207.

Serbian coach Toroman

Serbian coach Rajko Toroman, left, speaks with sportswriters during a press conference arranged by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Noli Eala, right, and Smart Sports executive Patrick Gregorio Wednesday night. Toroman, who led the Iranian team to the FIBA-Asia Olympic qualifier title in Tokushima, Japan last year, is being eyed to head the SBP's basketball development program.

Cebu completes Liga sweet

TAGUIG – M.L. Kwarta Padala-Cebu etched its name in the history books by masterfully ruling the maiden season of the 2008 Smart-Liga Pilipinas Finals Thursday, routing Harbour Centre-Taguig, 107-91, in Game Three at the C.P. Tinga gym here.

The Ninos, who dominated in Cebu the first two games of the best-of-five championship series sponsored by Rexona, Accel, Burlington, Molten, Metathione, Nature Spring, Pagcor Sports and Laptop Phoneshop, completed the sweep with a deadly combination of outside firepower and scorching fast break plays.

"This is history, that's why the boys are really inspired," said Cebu coach Yayoy Alcoseba, whose team is expected to mobbed by their followers back home. "This is for the Cebu fans and the Senor Sto. Nino."

Alcoseba said the Ninos had a brief anxious moments in the third quarter when the Batang Global went on a zone defense.

"But we were able to make the necessary adjustments," Alcoseba said.

Ron Capati led Cebu with 17 points and nine rebounds.

Both teams shot well, but Cebu dominated the boards, 40-29, the transition game, 17 points to nine.

The Batang Global came home hoping to extend the series and force a winner-take-all Game 5. Instead they were manhandled in their own backyard and in front of their hometown crowd.

Taguig sliced a 15-point deficit to 78-67 halfway in the fourth quarter, but Danny Aying and Stephen Padilla buried consecutive triples of their own to stop the Batang Global cold on their tracks.

Padilla had two three-point shots in a pivotal 12-2 run as Cebu turned a 6-5 deficit into a 17-8 lead in the first quarter.

Coming off the bench, Jayford Rodriguez then hit two free throws for the Ninos late in the period for a 22-12 advantage and the Taguig Global were not to come closer than five points the rest of the first half.

A Marvin Ortiguerra reverse layup moved Taguig within 36-31 with 1:42 remaining, but the Ninos had four points to wrap up the quarter, giving them the momentum they needed for the breakaway third quarter.

Cebu shot better from the field in the first half, and the Ninos' collected 12 points to the Batang Globals' three from beyond the three-point range.

Aying accounted for Cebu's third 3-pointer against the zone-playing Batang Global.

Two free throws by Bruce Dacia after Taguig was penalized for excessive complaining during the break gave Cebu an 11-point lead even before second half action resumed, with the Ninos padding the advantage to 48-33 four minutes into the quarter.

Taguig cut the deficit to 49-41, but the Ninos were not to be denied their place in history as the regional tournament's maiden champion.

Scores:

CEBU 107 – Capati 17, Aying 16, Padilla 13, Rodriguez 13, Dacia 11, Saladaga 10, Cavan 8, Tangkay 6, Ababon 5, Mepana 4, Enriquez 3, Berame 1, Bucao 0.

TAGUIG 91 – Rodriguez 21, Ortiguerra 16, Marquez 14, Gatumbato 9, Bautista 9, Matias 8, Aldave 6, Bombeo 3, Latoreno 3, Reguerra 2, Vejandre 0.

Quarters: 25-17; 40-31; 69-57; 107-91

RRD basketball clinic on Sept.18-19

Basketball clinicians will be in Barangay Balingaeng, Tugbok District for the next leg of the Mayor RRD Basketball Clinic on September 18 to 19.

Young boys and girls will be taught by long-time PBA player Cadel Mosqueda and basketball staff of the Sports Development Division led by veteran clinician Alberto Malinao the basics of the sport.

The proper ways of dribbling, shooting and passing the ball as well as on how to create simple plays for them to enjoy the game are among the areas to be taken up during the two-day clinic.

The clinics, which started in 2003, have benefitted more than 5,000 young boys and girls including those in the far-flung areas to encourage the youth to engage in sports at an early age.

CMO keeps clean record in IBP-Inday Sara cagefest

CMO keeps clean record in IBP-Inday Sara cagefest

Team Standings: Win-Loss

CMO 4-0

IBP 4-1

Bureau of Jail 3-2

IBP Panabo 3-2

Ateneo Law School 3-2

RTC/MTC 3-3

IBP 40’s 0-5

EA Sports 0-5

The City Mayor’s Office remained undefeated in four games and claimed its latest victim, IBP 40’s, 126-119 in the 2008 Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Vice Mayor Sara Duterte Basketball Tournament, Saturday, at the Hall of Justice covered court.

Christopher “Bong” Go drilled in 35 points as CMO cruised to its fourth straight victory and handed IBP 40’s its fifth setback.

IBP improved to four wins against one setback after trouncing Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (3-2), 98-86 while Regional and Municipal Trial Courts leveled its count to 3-3 after outgunning the Ateneo Law School, 81-73. EA Sports Management lost to IBP Panabo on a no-show.

Games will resume on Saturday.

Free RRD basketball clinic on Saturday

The Mayor RRD Basketball Clinic for the youth gets going on Saturday, 7:30 a.m., at San Lorenzo covered court in Brgy.Pampanga.

Former PBA player Cadel Mosqueda will handle the two-day free basketball lessons.

The basics of dribbling, shooting and passing as well as simple plays and exercises will be taught to the participants.

Cadel, Alberto Malinao and other clinicians have been conducting the clinic to teach the youth the basics of the sport as well hear lessons on the importance of engaging in sports activities at an early age.

FIBA-SBP referees clinic up

Lubomor Kotleba, sports director of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), is conducting a clinic for international referees on Sept. 17 and 18 at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.

Organized by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc. through its technical commission, the historic clinic will identify potential candidates, who will undergo a series of tests set by FIBA, for inclusion in the pool of prestigious international referees.

Beefing up the SBP pool of international referees is also another goal of the clinic.

"Those current and former international referees and new candidates duly endorsed by SBP regional directors all over the country are welcome and encouraged to participate in this FIBA clinic," said Perry Martinez, SBP technical committee chairman.

As a refresher course for those interested in attending the Kotelba clinic, the SBP technical commission will be conducting a two-day seminar on Sept. 11 and 12.

"This refresher course shall be used as a basis to determine the preparedness of our Philippine candidates" Martinez said.

For details, call the SBP office at 706-2969 and 706-2970 and look for Jennifer Ann Hernandez for registration.

4 games in IBP-Inday Sara cagefest on Aug.30

Four games are scheduled in the resumption of the 2008 Integated Bar of the Philippines-Vice Mayor Inday Sara Basketball Tournament on Saturday, August 30, at the Hall of Justice covered court in Ecoland.


The combined forces of the Regional and Municipal Trial Courts play the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in the opening game at 1:30 p.m. while Panabo IBP battles the City Mayor’s Office of Bong Go at 2:45 p.m.


IBP 40’s tries the mettle of IBP at 4 p.m. while Ateneo Law School meets the Jon Develos-led EA Aquatic and Sports Management in the main game at 5:30 p.m.

Pawnbrokers stop Pacman, 103-94 in RRD-Inday Kadayawan cagefest final

Pacman’s Louie Medalla (left) eludes Montana’s Robert Allan Quibod in the 2008 Mayor Rody and Vice Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Kadayawan Commercial Basketball Tournament, Sunday night, at the well-attended Davao City Recreation Center. Montana won, 103-94.




Montana Pawnshop Davao stopped a late rally by the Manny Pacquiao Warriors to win the final game, 103-94 of the 2008 Mayor Rody and Vice Mayor Inday Sara Duterte-Kadayawan Commercial Basketball Tournament, Sunday night, at the well-attended Davao City Recreation Center.

Ronald Lamocha powered the Pawnbrokers with 30 points and received the most valuable player trophy of the four-day competition.

John Gonzaga, Louie Medalla, who tallied 17 points, apiece for the Pacquiao Warriors, and Jaypee Locsin tried to rally their teammates in the last one minute and 31 seconds as they trailed, 89-95 but Lamocha and Marvin Poloyapoy made the needed shots to keep the Warriors from the snaring the title.

The Davao Collegiate All-Stars placed third in the tournament sanctioned by BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas regional director Regino “Boy” Cua.

Davao City Councilor Edgar R. Ibuyan (1^st district) awarded the prizes to the winners.

The scores:

Montana Pawnshop Davao (103)- Lamocha 30, Fernandez 27, Sta.Cruz 18, Clavel 10, Poloyapoy 7, Ayson 7, Quibod 5, Dawal 5, Maniego 2.

Manny Pacquiao Warriors (94)- Gonzaga 17, Medalla 17, Recustudio 13, Sagad 12, Locsin 9, Dagcutan 9, Mejorada 8, Coronado 7, Ramos 2.

Actors beat Executives, Pawnbrokers drub Collegiate Stars

Actors beat Executives, Pawnbrokers drub Collegiate Stars

At the jampacked Davao City Recreation Center (Almendras gym) on Friday afternoon, the visiting actors from Manila wowed the crowd with their antics and beat the Davao City Executives, 137-128 in the Mayor Rody and Inday Sara Kadayawan Basketball with the Stars.

Bong Hawkins led the visitors with 22 points and Mayor Duterte’s executive assistant Christopher “Bong” Go was on fire with 52 points that was highlighted by 10 three-point shots in the exhibition game presented by Maxan Trucking.

Later in the evening, the Montana Pawnbrokers kept the Davao Collegiate All-Stars at bay to score their second win in the tournament, 82-77.

The Collegiate All-Stars will play Manny Pacquiao and his Warriors on Saturday evening, 6 p.m., hoping to bounce back.

The final is on Sunday at 6 p.m.

RRD-Inday Sara Kadayawan Basketball with the Stars on Aug.22

The Kadayawan Festival celebrations will be more colorful with the coming of actors who will play a basketball game dubbed Mayor Rody and Inday Sara Duterte-Kadayawan Basketball with the Stars on August 22, 5 p.m., at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Multi-awarded actor Christopher de Leon leads the team composed of Ian Veneracion, Joko Diaz, Dennis Padilla, Bayani Agbayani, Joross Gamboa, Carlos Morales, Jestoni Alarcon, Gean Padilla, Emilio Garcia, Patrick dela Rosa, Philip Salvador and Bong Hawkins.

The actors will be facing the Davao City Executives lead by Christopher “Bong” Go in the one game feature sponsored by Maxan Trucking.

The event adds to the upcoming RRD-Inday Sara Kadayawan Commercial Basketball Tournament that is planned to start on August 20 to 24 featuring the Zamboanga Amores, Montana Pawnshop, Manny Pacquiao Team and Davao Collegiate All-Stars.

Champions League: UM rips RMC in crucial game, 95-82

Edgar Awitin (holding the ball), who did play in the first two games, sees action in the third game for the University of Mindanao against the Rizal Memorial Colleges in the 2008 Champions League-Davao Eliminations, Sunday night, at the Davao City Recreation Center. UM won, 95-82.



The University of Mindanao Wildcats made the adjustments at the start of the second quarter to rip the Rizal Memorial Colleges Bulldogs, 95-82 in the 2008 Champions League-Davao Eliminations, Sunday night, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Arnold Adormeo led the Wildcats, who trailed in the first quarter 19-22, with 20 points and Edgar Awitin added 18 baskets while Mohaliden Distancia topscored for the losing side with 26 points.

The Wildcats clinched their second win in three outings and tied the top post with Emar College but will be relegated to the No.2 spot in Group A based on the team that beats the other rule. Emar defeated the Wildcats on opening day, 86-79.

Bulldogs coach Marlon Lucnagan protested the entry of the veteran Awitin in the crucial third game pointing out that the UM player did not play in the first two games particularly against Emar College where they lost. “Wala sya sa line-up,” said Lucnagan.

UM sports director Joaquin “Boy” Sarabia, however, said that there was nothing wrong with the entry of Awitin in the crucial third game because during their meeting, it was agreed that teams are allowed to submit even up to 20 players as long as they follow the 15 to play rule.

In group B, the Jose Maria College Kings and Agro-Industrial Foundation College Sailors will also be playing crucial games to determine the rankings before going to the semifinal round of the tournament supported by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and Vice Mayor Sara Z. Duterte and sanctioned by BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Regional Director Regino “Boy” Cua.

The Davao champion will advance to the Regional Area finals against South Cotabato, Sarangani, Gen.Santos City and Maguindanao teams.

The scores:
University of Mindanao (95)- Adormeo 20, Awitin 18, Mendoza 14, Fernandez 11, Rosauro 7, Cesniros 5, Galacgac 3, Angalan 2, Apurada 2, Barbieros 2.

Rizal Memorial Colleges (82)- Distancia 26, Planas 23, Rodriguez 13, Gabatan 6, Bayang 4, Neri 3, Ydulzura 3, Abao 2.

RMC shoots down MATS, Emar guns for win No.2

Agro wins over Ateneo, 76-71 on Saturday night.


Games on Saturday, August 9:
5 p.m.- Jose Maria Colleges vs. DMMA College of Southern Phils.
6:30 p.m.- Emar College vs. Rizal Memorial Colleges

Rizal Memorial Colleges Bulldogs shot down the MATS College of Technology Navigators, 95-86 and will face opening day winner Emar College in the Champions League-Davao Eliminations on Saturday, August 9, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Mohaliden Distancia powered the Bulldogs with 28 points while Yulep Jun Planos added 18 and Raphael Neri canned in 10 points to emerge double-digit scorers on Sunday night and will have their hands full when they meet Emar College, 86-79 winner over University of Mindanao on Saturday’s opening game.

Theddy Collados topscored for the Navigators with 26 points and hopes that they will bounce back when they take on University of Mindanao on Sunday, August 10, at 3 p.m. after the 1:30 p.m. game between Agro-Industrial Foundation College Sailors and DMMA College of Southern Philippines.


DMMA College of Southern Philippines debuts on Saturday against the Jose Maria College Kings at 5 p.m. in the tournament sanctioned by BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas regional director Regino “Boy” Cua and supported by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and Vice Mayor Sara Z. Duterte

The winner of the Davao leg will advance to the Regional Area finals against South Cotabato, Sarangani, Gen.Santos City and Maguindanao teams.

The scores:
Rizal Memorial Colleges (75)- Distancia 28, Planos 18, Neri 10, Rosaroso 9, Lim 9, Amatosa 8, Bayang 7, Ydulzura 5, Rodriguez 1.

MATS College of Technology (86)- Collados 26, Colina 20, Quibel 18, Palarca 13, Catre 3, Collados 2, Agustin 2, Fontillas 2.




Day 1 results:
Agro, Emar score separate wins in Champion’s League-Davao elims



Agro-Industrial Foundation College and Emar College started on a high note with separate victories in the Davao eliminations of the 2008 Champion’s League, Saturday, August 2, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

The Agro Sailors fought the Ateneo de Davao University Blue Knights in a see-saw battle before navigating to a 76-71 win. Joseph Ambohot and Eugene Torres provided the firepower in the last one minute and eight seconds to secure the victory.

Richard Madelo and Nat Sencio made three-point shots that cut Agro’s lead to just two, 73-71, 13 seconds remaining but the taller Agro cagers stepped up when their services were needed the most.

In the first game of the Davao eliminations sanctioned by BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and supported by Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte and Vice Mayor Sara Z. Duterte, Emar College managed to stop University of Mindanao, 86-79.

Games will be played every Saturdays and Sunday with the winners advancing to the Zonal finals against teams from Cagayan de Oro City, Iligan City and Socsargen late this month.

The scores:
(First Game)

Emar College (86)- Jimenez 25, Delica 24, Walingan 16, Caminse 6, Bitoy 6, Josol 4, Bantilan 4, Davide 1.

University of Mindanao (79)- Angalan 24, Galacgac 18, Plata 12, Mendoza 9, Silvarez 5, Barbieros 4, Adormeo 2, Casneros 2, Rosauro 2, Apurada 1.

(Second Game)
Agro-Industrial Foundation College (76)- Curso 20, Torres 18, Ardinio 11, Ruiz 10, Caminade 8, Ambohot 5, Abenita 4.

Ateneo de Davao University (71)- Madelo 25, Cabigas 12, Catre 11, Claveria 9, Pagdalian 5, Hiquial 4, Sencio 3, Fortinez 1, Awad 1.

National Hoops 3-on-3 Finals as PBA curtainraiser

Four teams -- split into two divisions -- will dispute the First National Hoops 3-on-3 basketball championship this afternoon at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

JARC and SHS-J will contest the Junior Varsity championship (13-15 years old) while PCU Dolphins will challenge Team Moley for the varsity title (16-19 years) of the event held under the auspices of National Hoops USA and supported by the Philippine Basketball Association.

Serving as appetizer for Game 3 of the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals, the National Hoops finale gets rolling at 3:30 p.m. starting with the junior varsity game. Each game will be played for 10 minutes.

"We're very excited to be holding the Finals in a championship atmosphere. We're very thankful to PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios and the entire PBA organization for their kindness and generosity to play host to this event. We truly appreciate the gesture," said Mike Waters, chief organizer of the National Hoops 3-on-3 tourney.

The JARC and PCU Dolphins teams topped their respective divisions after a grueling 52 games among Metro Manila contestants while SHS-J and Team Moley ruled the Cebu leg after 23 elimination games.

Fil-foreign cagers must complete requirement to join annual draft---Barrios

Philippine Basketball Association commissioner Renauld Barrios yesterday said all Fil-foreign players who applied for coming Annual Draft must complete all the requirements to be considered in the final list of candidates for the August 31 event. Barrios revealed that no less than the PBA Board of Governors reiterated this league policy to him in its July 14 Board Meeting.

Barrios said the documents required by the league are prerequisites for all Fil-foreign players wishing to make a career in the PBA.

"The papers that we are requiring them to submit serve as sort of their passport to become candidates for the annual draft," said Barrios.

Seven Fil-Foreign aspirants led Gabe Norwood have signified their intention to join the annual draft but none of them have completed the requirement imposed by the league.

Supposedly, deadline for submission of the documents was last July 8 but the PBA Commissioner's Office is giving the concerned applicants a grace period of until July 25 to submit at least xerox copies all the required documents so that verification of said papers can take place promptly.

Barrios, however, said that authenticated and original copies of those documents must be turned over to the league by noon of August 29.

Among the pertinent documents that have to be submitted by Fil-Foreign applicants in order to be included in the list of rookie hopefuls are as follows:

1) Certificate of Recognition from Bureau of Immigration

2) Affirmation from the Department of Justice

3) Authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office if applicant is born in the Philippines (or equivalent official agency in country of birth other than the Philippines)

4) Authenticated birth certificate of Filipino parent or other valid document acceptable to the appropriate agency

5) Marriage certificate of parents (or in the absence thereof due circumstances beyond applicants control, legal recognition by applicant's Filipino father or other proof evidencing filiation such as will, record of birth or DNA test results)

6) Duly notarized and/or authenticated naturalization papers of Filipino parents.

7) Duly notarized affidavits of at least 3 persons residing in the Philippines attesting to the claim of citizenship of applicant, and

8) All other documents which the PBA Commissioner may require.

Any of the Fil-foreign applicants who fail to complete the requirement by July 25 will be considered out of the list according to Barrios.

"We need time to check the veracity and authenticity of the documents that they will submit," Barrios said.

The Commissioner's Office as well as all the 10 teams has been allotted a contestability of one month to verify the legitimacy of the Fil-foreign aspirants.

The complete list of Fil-foreign aspirants also includes, Kevin Delafu, Jared Dillinger, Robert Baltch Reyes, Solomon Mercado, Christopher Viardo, Gabriel Norwood and Charles Waters.

Cebu eyes third leg triumph; Quezon hosts week five

CEBU EYES THIRD LEG TRIUMPH;

QUEZON HOSTS WEEK FIVE

Games on July 16

(Quezon)

3 p.m. – Baguio vs. Ilocos Sur

5 p.m. – Misamis Oriental vs. Quezon

(Cebu)

3 p.m. – Pampanga vs. Zamboanga

5 p.m. – Laguna vs. Cebu

CEBU, July 15 – The Cebu Ninos, momentarily eclipsed from top of the standings by the dazzling Pagadian Explorers, seek to reclaim solo leadership when they host Wednesday the southern leg of Week 5 of the Liga Pilipinas Tour elimination phase at the New Cebu Coliseum.

The M.L. Kwarta Padala-backed double-leg winners, currently ranked second in the qualification round with 20 points behind the idle Explorers, take on the Trace Laguna Stallions at the featured game at 5 p.m. following the curtain-raiser pitting the Pampanga Buddies, champions in Week 2, against the Zamboanga Amores.

Over at the Quezon Convention Center, the Baguio Victory clash with the Ilocos Sur Bravehearts at 3 p..m., while the Misamis Oriental Meteors collide with the host Quezon Red Oilers at 5 p.m.

With two first place finishes and a runnerup showing, the Explorers pace the field with 29 points, gathering momentum for their quarterfinal drive.

Close behind Cebu at third are the Taguig Batang Global with 23 points, Pampanga, 4^th with 20 points, Lipa-Batangas, (5^th/17 pts.), Ilocos Sur (6^th/12 pts.), Tagaytay-Cavite (7^th/12 pts), Baguio (8^th/10 pts.), Misamis Oriental (9^th/9 pts.), Laguna (10^th/4 pts), Zamboanga (11^th/3 pts.), Iloilo (12^th/3 pts.), and Quezon (13^th/2 pts.)

Based on Tour points at the end of the qualification round, the top four teams will advance to the quarterfinal, while the next eight teams undergo a wildcard showdown, with the 5^th- to the 8^th-ranked squad enjoying a twice-to-beat advantage.

A leg winner earns 10 points on top of its won game bonus (1 point per win), the runnerup gets five, and the third placer three points.

Pagadian ruled the Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga legs, while Cebu was tops in the Ilocos Sur and Pagadian stages. Taguig, Pampanga, and Lipa-Batangas emerged winners after respectively playing hosts in their hometowns.

In the Week 1 finals, Pagadian routed Baguio, 63-49 in Misamis Oriental, while Cebu downed host Ilocos Sur, 98-78.

In Week 2, Pampanga edged Tagaytay-Cavite in a championship thriller, 78-77, while Week 3 saw Cebu denying Pagadian at home in the title game, 72-67, and Taguig defending the fort, 81-75, against invading Pampanga.

Lipa defeated Tagaytay-Cavite, 81-72, in the final of Week 4 in Batangas, and Pagadian shelled Taguig, 83-56, in Zamboanga.

Executives finish off Legislators, 100-97

The Executives finished off the Legislators in Game 5 with a 100-97 win to wind up the Executive-Legislative Basketball Tournament-16th Season, four games to one, recently, at the Davao City Recreation Center.

City sports coordinator Christopher “Bong” Go started with a big bang by drilling in five three-point shots in the first quarter, sending another message that the Executives were out to capture another season title.

The Legislators could not find the needed points and went behind by 10 points in the first canto only to spark in the fourth quarter as they outscored their rivals, 38-20.

The Executives, however, re-grouped just in time to keep the Legislators from trailing and escaped with just a three-point victory.

The scores:
Executives (100)- B.Go 29, Escorido 21, Escoton 14, Alquizar 13, Bangkas 10, Bonleon 6, Labor 4, Gadiano 3.
Legislators (97)- Montalban 36, de Guzman 25, Villaver 10, Casan 10, Yamit 6, Plarisan 6, Mahipus 2, Abellera 2.

Baguio Victory turns back Iloilo Mang Inasals, 85-80

LIGA PILIPINAS
Baguio Victory turns back Iloilo Mang Inasals, 85-80


BATANGAS, July 13 – Ronnie Zagala unloaded 22 points and Roscer Benjamin Mangahas added 21 as the Baguio Victory turned back the Iloilo Mang Inasals, 85-80, Sunday to settle for third place in Week 4 of the Liga Pilipinas Tour elimination phase here.

The Victory lost a nine-point first quarter lead, but came together for a spirited run in the second half, weathering a late surge by the Mang Inasals to claim three points.

Baguio led, 81-72, going to the last two minutes, looking headed for a coasting win after a tough middle-two quarters.

But just when the Mang Inasals were being written off, they rallied furiously behind Chito Jaime, who finished with 24 points, to within 83-80 with 15 seconds left.

The Highlanders were not to be denied, though, hanging on from the free throw line with Jason Tiongson and Mangahas hitting a charity shot each.

Ongoing as of press time was the final game between the Lipa Barakos and the Tagaytay-Cavite Heroes.

Over in Zamboanga, the Ilocos Bravehearts salvaged third by beating the host Amores, 94-85, in overtime.

Ronnie Basilides scored 12 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter, while Marlon Kalaw and Eder Saldua each had four points in the extra period.

Ilocos Sur went 39-of-79 from the field to collect five additional Liga points/

Scores: (Batangas)

BAGUIO 85 – Zagala 22, Mangahas 21, Sta. Maria 20, Gamboa 7, Cariño 6, Tiongson 3, Gamboa 2, Lujero 2, Pupos 2, Basto 0, Ton 0, Caliwag 0.

ILOILO 80 – Jaime 24, Barcellano 14, Laborte 10, David 10, Garrido 5, Seneres 5, Sina-on 4, Sencil 4, Pelopero 2, Tan 2, Go 0, Leonida 0, Guanco 0.

Quarters: 25-16; 36-38; 64-61; 85-80

(Zamboanga)

ILOCOS SUR 94 – Basilides 21, Lopez 13, Saldua 11, Cabatu 10, Hugnatan 9, Kalaw 8, Malabanan 8, Castro 3, Prado 3, Chun 3, Reyes 2, Guiyab 2, Balares 1, Ico 0.

ZAMBOANGA 85 – Naron 24, France 16, Concepcion 13, Omandam 10, Parreño 8, Bolias 7, Tan 5, Saracho 2, Chua 0, Bascar 0, Depamaylo 0, Lozano 0.

Quarters: 17-20; 32-31; 57-51; 77-all; 94-85 (OT)

IBP White ready against City cagers in IBP-RRD cage finals

The IBP White is ready for battle against the City Government of Davao cagers in the finals of the 2008 Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte Basketball Tournament on July 26 at the Hall of Justice covered court in Ecoland.

Gametime is at 4 p.m.

IBP Orange collides with IBP Yellow for third place at 2:30 p.m.

The IBP Whites will be led by lawyers Marvin “Oying” Melodias and Mans Carpio against the Christopher “Bong” Go-led City dribblers.

The Emilio Dayanghirang, a Davao City prosecutor, and Martin Heje-spearheaded IBP Yellow takes on the IBP Orange of Atty.Joey Felizarta.

The championship game will also be highlighted by the launching of the Lawyer’s League in preparation of the IBP-Mindanao Palaro in October.

Cebu leads Liga Pilipinas team standings

LIPA CITY (July 8, 2008) – Double-leg winner Cebu, on the strength of its triumphs in Ilocos Sur and Pagadian, leads the Liga Pilipinas team standings with 24 Tour points, fortifying the Ninos' bid for an outright quarterfinal berth with two more stops in their schedule.

The Pampanga Buddies, who won the second leg before their hometown crowd in San Fernando, rank second with 20 points, followed by the Pagadian Explorers, champions in the Misamis Oriental leg, with 17, and fellow leg winner Taguig Batang Global, 16 points.

Completing the standings are: Misamis Oriental (9), Ilocos Sur (7), Baguio (6), Tagaytay-Cavite (6), Laguna (4), Lipa-Batangas (4), Zamboanga (3), (Iloilo 2), and Quezon (2).

As per tournament format, each of the 13 participating teams – on the way to competing in four different legs – will host one qualification round tourney to complete a total of 13 legs.

Already, Misamis Oriental, Ilocos Sur, Pampanga, Taguig, and Pagadian have played hosts to five recently concluded legs, with Lipa-Batangas and Zamboanga housing competitors in Week 4.

Based on its finish in each of the four legs assigned it, a team will be awarded Tour points – 10 points to the champion, five to the runnerup, and three to the third-placer, on top of its won game points (1 for every victory in the elimination) – to determine the standings at the end of the qualification round.

The top four teams with the highest points advance to the quarterfinals, while the next eight teams go through a wildcard phase where the 5^th-ranked to the 8^th-ranked team enjoy twice-to-beat privileges against the 9^th- to 12^th-placed squads.

Kicking off hostilities at the provincial capital of Batangas today are the Iloilo Mang Inasals against the Baguio Victory at 3 p.m., followed by the featured game pitting the host Barakos against the Tagaytay-Cavite Heroes at 5 p.m.

Over in Zamboanga, the Pagadian Explorers, winners in Week 1 at the Misamis Oriental leg, and the Batang Global, victors in Week 3 in Taguig, collide at 3 p.m., while the Bravehearts of Ilocos and the hometown favotire Amores take the court at 5 p.m.

IBP White, City cagers boot out foes

IBP White and the City Government of Davao cagers booted out their respective rivals in the 2008 Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte Basketball Tournament, Saturday, at the Hall of Justice covered court in Ecoland.

The White team took the lead and never looked back in beating the IBP Orange, 84-79 to secure a spot to the next round while the City Government of Davao marched also the next round via a 96-88 win over IBP Yellow.

City sports coordinator Christopher “Bong” Go found the range again and chalked in 28 points to defeat the team led by prosecutor Emilio “Nonot” Dayanghirang.

The Whites led by lawyer Marvin “Oying” Melodias posted a comfortable lead, 47-34 at the send of the first half and maintained the momentum to secure the victory.

The City dribblers did the same thing by immediately playing strong that kept IBP Yellow trailing.

Go, Gerald Acojedo and Melchor Gadiano teamed up well on the attacks and delivered the goods to outshine the Yellow team.

The scores:

(First Game)
IBP White (84)- Escorido 26, Peloton 9, Melodias 9, Magallanes 8, Carpio 7, Sarabia 5, Ceniza 5, Saligumba 4, Elima 2, Hatcha 2.
IBP Orange (79)- Morales 25, Castro 18, Al-ag 17, Felizarta 10, Donguilles 9.

(Second Game)
City Government of Davao (96)- B.Go 28, Acojedo 17, Gadiano 16, Labor 12, Ordonez 7, Rivera 6, Sta.Ana 4, Lacorda 4, Galvez 2.
IBP Yellow (88)- Abule 27, Menoria 17, Adao 10, Pudpud 10, Balatero 9, Wabingga 6, Dayanghirang 6, Heje 3.

Liga Pilipinas: Fernandez leads Taguig Batang Global past Pampanga Buddies, 81-75

LIGA PILIPINAS

TAGUIG (July 6) – Point guard Boyet Fernandez fired 24 points, draining 5 of 6 three-point shots, to power the host Taguig Batang Global past the Pampanga Buddies, 81-75, Sunday in the final of the Liga Pilipinas Tour elimination phase at the C.P. Tinga gym here.

The Batang Global picked up 11 Tour points at the conclusion of Week 3, while the Buddies received seven points.

Zamboanga and Batangas will host Week 4 from July 9-13.

Taguig (6-4) outscored Pampanga (8-2) – led by the 16 points of Larry Rodriguez – 25-13 in the second quarter to stretch a 15-12 edge to 40-25 at the half.

Offsetting a 38 percent field goal shooting, the Batang Global dominated the boards, 52-38, with Ronnie Matias grabbing 11 and Erick Rodriguez collaring 10.

In the battle for third, Al Vergara posted a double-double with 21 points and 10 assists as the Lipa Barakos crushed the Quezon Red Oilers, 96-83.

Jeffrey Sanders added 13 points with seven rebounds for the Barakos, who picked up their second win in five games.

The Barakos shot 31 of 75 (41 percent) from the floor compared to the Red Oilers' 26 of 71 (37 percent).

Largely through the rebounding of Quezon's Kim Macanig (11) and Hafer Mondragon (10), Lipa surrendered a slight deficit under the boards. But the Barakos dominated the fast break with 22 points to the Red Oilers' 10 and picked up a 13-7 edge in turnover points.

The game had three deadlocks and six lead changes.

Scores:

LIPA 96 – Vergara 21, Sanders 14, Custodio 11, De Castro 10, David 9, Estrada 9, Junio 8, Neo 5, Habit 3, Moody 3, Lim 2, Alfad 1, Lustestica 0, Magcawas 0.

QUEZON 83 – Williams 19, Magsumbol 17, Mondragon 13, Macanig 12, Chua 9, Manabat 5, Panzo 3, Bolado 2, Garrido 0, Canizares 0, Mendoza 0, Casino 0, Dabel 0.

Quarters: 20-21; 50-45; 70-61; 96-83

2^nd Game

TAGUIG 81 – Bautista 27, Matias 14, Marquez 11, Rodriguez 9, Javier 6, Bombeo 6, Gatumbato 4, Ortiguerra 3, Reguera 1, Fajardo 0, Latoreno 0, Viandre 0, de Leon 0, Ramos 0.

PAMPANGA 75 – Rodriguez 16, Dillinger 12, Vizcarra 9, Bansil 8 , Oreta 7, Alcaraz 6, Nicdao 6, Mercado 6, Misa 5, Luanzon 0, Evangelista 0, Villamin 0,

Quarters: 15-12, 40-25, 55-47, 81-75

Primovit Futures 3on3 Baller Battle in Davao on June 28 to 29, 2008 at the Gaisano South Citimall's Sky gym

Torrejas secures win for Liga cagers

Romeo Torrejas sanked the two gift shots to lift Liga ng Barangay over the City Executives, 97-95 in the 2008 Liga-Executive Basketball Series, Thursday night at the Davao City Recreation Center.

Gerald Acojedo fouled Torrejas in the last five seconds that sent the Barangay Captain to the free throw line. He comfortably made the shots to give Liga the lead in the series, three games to two.

Jessiemar Culaste led Liga with 24 points while city sports coordinator Christopher "Bong" Go topscored for the losing side with 32 points.


The scores:
Liga ng Barangay (97)- Culaste 24, Apostol 19, Torejas 12, Saron 10, Olanolan 8, Orilla 7, Gumahin 6, Galido 4, Padla 2, Camarillo 2, Bantayan 2.

Executives (95)- B.Go 32, Melodias 28, Palban 16, Felizarta 8, Acojedo 7, Sta.Ana 2, Abasolo 2.

Primovit entries submission at Almendras gym, Ateneo has 15 teams

Ateneo de Davao is fielding in 15 squads and interested teams are requested to submit their entries for the Primovit Futures 3on3 Baller Battle on June 28 to 29 at the Gaisano South Sky gym.

Organizers announced on Wednesday that the forms are available at the Almendras gym and just look for Paras for the teams to join the two-day event.

Assumption College of Davao has 10 teams, Agro-Industrial Foundation College has two, Davao Christian has five squads and other schools will be beating the deadline on Friday.

Futures Sports and Events administrative assistant Doll de Guzman, consultant and coach Tyrone Limon and assistant coach Glen de Leon will be arriving in Davao on Thursday to check on the venues and personally handle the team screening.

Requirements for participation are copy of NSO birth certificates, waiver, parent's consent, two empty boxes of Primovit multivitamin capsules and P600 per team.

Prizes at stake are P7,500 for the champions and P5,000 for the second placers including gift items from AND1, trophies and medals.

For more information, call or text tournament coordinator Rico Biliran at 09206079207 or email rico_biliran@yahoo.com.

Liga Pilipinas: Cebu rules Northern leg, Pagadian tops Southern phase

LIGA PILIPINAS

Cebu rules Northern leg;

Pagadian tops Southern phase

CAGAYAN de Oro – Mark Yee displayed his valuable leadership to Pagadian late Sunday evening, posting a double-double in steering the Explorers to a spectacular comeback by blasting the Baguio Victory, 63-49, in the final of the maiden southern phase of Liga Pilipinas at the Xavier University gym here.

Yee had 15 points and 11 rebounds, getting adjudged Best Player of the Misamis Oriental leg.

Comparatively deficient in size but overflowing in aggressiveness, the Explorers controlled the boards, 45-36, and held the Victory, who trailed 17-7 and never recovered, to 28 percent from the floor (16-of-58).

Pagadian's defense also forced 17 Baguio turnovers.

In the battle for third place, local boy Eric de la Cuesta unloaded 18 points to lead the MisOr Meteors past the Trace Laguna Stallions, 82-77.

Meanwhile, at the People's Coliseum in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur, the Cebu Ninos downed the host Bravehearts, 98-78, in the northern leg final.

Taguig, on the other hand, ripped Quezon, 79-68, for third place.

Scores: (Northern leg)

1^st Game

TAGUIG 79 – Marquez 21, Latoreno 13, Gatumbato 12, Ortiguerra 9, Rodriguez 9, Reguera 5, Matias 4, Bombeo 2, Bautista 2, De Leon 2, Vijandre 0, Ripalda 0, Javier 0, Fajardo 0.

QUEZON 68 – Chua 11, Mondragon 9, Casino 7, Macanig 8, Panzo 7, Garrido 6, Lingao Lingao 6, Canizares 5, Williams 4, Alcala 3, Oabel 2,Manabat 0, Bolado 0, Mendoza 0,

Quarters: Taguig- 14-16; 27-35; 47-49; 79-68

2^ND Game

CEBU 98 – Rodriguez 21,Dacia 20, Basco 16, Capati 13, Padilla 9, Berami 8, Ababon 6, Cavan 3, Saladaga 2, Aying 0, Mepana 0, Atablanco 0, Luga 0.

ILOCOS 78 – Malabanan 19, Basilides 13, Kalaw 9, Guiyab 9, Cabatu 5, Hugnatan 7, Lopez 4, Saldua 4, Balares 4, Castro 2, Reyes 2, Prado 1, Codamon 0, Ico 0.

Quarters: 22-19; 48-42; 71-55; 98-78

(Southern leg)

1^st Game

MISAMIS ORIENTAL 82 – De la Cuesta 18, Saguindel 15, Concha 11, Nailon 10, Espiritu 8, Faundo 7, Tadena 5, Farochilen 4, Tagupa 4, Caputolan 0.

LAGUNA 77 – Losentes 24, Gaco 16, Angeles 8, Ricafuente 8, Santos 7, Dedicatoria 6, Retaga 4, Raymundo 2, Cruz 2, Valderama 0.

Quarters: 16-17; 31-35; 57-52; 82-77.

2^ND Game

PAGADIAN 63 – Yee 15, Villaver 14, Labagala 8, Daja 7, Kong 6, Orquillas 5, Sinco 4, Saludsod 2, Quilo 2. Singedas 0, Cortes 0, Musni 0.

BAGUIO 49 – Sta. Maria 13, Mangahas 7, Tiongson 6, Ton 6, Basto 5, Al. Gamboa 5, Ar. Gamboa 4, White 3, Pupos 0, Cariño 0, Lujero 0.

Quarters: 24-11; 36-22; 52-39; 63-49.