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Aces, Beermen eye 3-1 cushion

2010-07-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

Aces, Beermen eye 3-1 cushion

by Zean Macamay

Tuesday, 27 July 2010 18:38

Source: Journal.com.ph

Games Today: (Cuneta Astrodome)

5:00 p.m. – Derby Ace vs. San Miguel Beer
7:30 p.m. – Alaska vs. Talk ‘N Text

HALFWAY fulfilled to a series’ triumph against the top-ranked team, and getting the rest it needed so much, Alaska now goes for the win that may just end up as the killer blow.

“We’ll need to continue to find a way and follow up our last win,” said Aces’ coach Tim Cone. “Usually the team that can win back-to-back in a series will win it.”

Absolutely not the fancied one coming into the semi-finals but surprisingly in control, Alaska tonight shoots for a commanding 3-1 lead over Talk ‘N Text and move on the threshold of a shocking result in Game Four of their Final Four showdown in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Cuneta Astrodome.

“The good news is we had a couple of days to refresh and now we can play them on even terms,” said Cone. “This is good basketball. We’re playing so hard and it’s great we’re staying out there and battling out there and giving ourselves opportunities.

“Everyone thought that we were going to be blown out by Talk ‘N Text.”

From the looks of it, it’s the Tropang Texters who are definitely in deep trouble.

Alaska played Game Three Sunday trailing most of the way. In the end, LA Tenorio, who only had two points through 47 minutes, scored the Aces’ last seven points in a brilliant turn-around that carried the franchise to a 90-86 victory.

Diamon Simpson collected 31 points and 20 rebounds in that win, and the Aces outscored the Texters by 25 points at the free-throw line, numbers that obviously did not escape the meticulous eyes of TNT coach Chot Reyes, who is eyeing to give the ball club its first ever championship in a tournament with imports.

Reyes pin-pointed the way Simpson outplayed Shawn Daniels, and how Alaska got away with numerous attempts at the stripe. If the Texters can’t stop any of those two from happening again, the chances are slim in tying the series, according to Reyes.

“We lost Game Three because Simpson thoroughly dominated Daniels,” said Reyes. “”And they took 34 free throws to our 13. If we’re able to solve at least one of those, then we’ll have a chance in Game Four.”

Daniels, an import not necessarily known for his offense, only had four points and nine rebounds in Game Three.

Mac-Mac Cardona, who missed Game Two in Talk ‘N Text’s 100-94 triumph after getting married, also was a huge flop. Reyes decided not to start the shooting guard in Game Three and eventually lost grasp of the rotation, seeing action for only 11 minutes and producing six points.

“Mac-Mac may be out of his rhythm right now, but he’s the kind of guy that when he finds his rhythm, he changes the game, makes you lose your focus. So we expect to see of Mac-Mac in the next games,” said Cone.

The pressure to steer a star-studded team to the Finals is slowly piling up on Reyes, who has already guided the Texters to a franchise-best 13-game winning streak in the eliminations and the best record at 13-5.

San Miguel Beer likewise guns for a 3-1 lead over Derby Ace, hoping that the momentum of its splendid, come-from-behind 74-70 win in Game Three can be carried on.

The Beermen fell behind by as many as 17 points to the Llamados in their previous outing, but mustered enough strength and focus to pull off the win despite Gabe Freeman sitting most of the time at the bench because of foul trouble.

This is the very same situation Derby Ace faced in the Philippine Cup. But the Llamados won the next three games to advance to the championship series against Alaska and eventually the title via a rare sweep.

To win, Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio is hoping that they find their touch on offense.

“We all for a fact that we can’t win against San Miguel if we don’t score,” said Gregorio. “But we’re still upbeat about our chances. Game Four is crucial. We don’t want to be down 1-3.”

The Llamados, after scoring 45 points in the first half in Game Three, were held to only 25 in the second half, a conference low and a season-tying low. James Yap went without a field goal in the final 14:05 of the game, and no other local other than Don Allado (10 points) scored in double-digits for the Philippine Cup champions.

BEERMEN CONTINUE WITH WINNING WAYS, RIP BARAKO BULL

2009-05-17T02:40:00.001-07:00

BEERMEN CONTINUE WITH WINNING WAYS, RIP BARAKO BULL

First outright semifinalist improves to 10-2 as Freeman virtually unstoppable in 4th

Friday, 15 May 2009

Source: PBA.PH

ANTIPOLO CITY. -- San Miguel Beer turned to Gabe Freeman in the fourth quarter and the hardworking import willingly took over as the Beermen, already assured of the No.1 seeding even before the start of the game, continued with its winning ways, hacking out a 99-92 victory over Barako Bull Friday night at the Ynares Center.

With just one point separating the SMB and Barako Bull, Freeman made three consecutive free throws then scored on a follow-up dunk off Danny Ildefonso’s missed jumper to stretch SMB’s lead to 95-89 with 70 seconds remaining.

The versatile Freemen eventually finished with 33 points and was a monster off the boards with 21 rebounds for his 11^th double-double in as many games as the Beermen bounced back from Sunday’s 105-107 double overtime loss to Burger King.

Dondon Hontiveros scored 23 points, Ildefonso added 14 and Jonas Villanueva had seven assists for SMB which improved to a league-best 10-2 (win-loss) record in the 2009 Motolite PBA Fiesta Conference.

That means the Beermen have secured their place in the best-of-seven semifinals and will have plenty of rest after the classification round before plunging to war in their bid to regain the title they last won in 2005.

SMB coach Siot Tanquingcen gave his troops a tongue lashing during the halftime break, displeased with his team’s lethargic showing in the opening half.

“It’s not enough for us to just show up. We have to come out and play every game,” he said.

Daryan Selvy scored 32 points and had 13 rebounds to show the way for Barako Bull, which led by as many 12 points but came up short.

Jojo Duncil added a career-high 18 points and Gabby Espinas had 12 for the Energy Boosters who picked up their eighth consecutive loss, matching the worst in franchise history, and 12^th in 14 games overall.

They wound up their campaign at 10^th place and now face the specter of having to win twice over the No.3 seed to advance to the quarterfinals.

It looked like SMB had the game in control late in the opening quarter when it built a 26-10 lead on a 3-pointer by Dondon Hontiveros with 4:29 to play as Barako Bull started the period by missing its first seven attempts and committed two quick turnovers.

Then the Beermen inexplicably lost their intensity, allowing the Energy Boosters to get back in game.

Barako Bull knocked in three consecutive 3-pointers to close the first quarter then scored the first eight points of the second to take the lead, 34-26, on Alex Crisano’s three.

Barako Bull shot 8-for-19 from the 3-point range in the first half.

SMB tied the count at 34 on a basket by Dorian Pena and again at 36 on Hontiveros’s jumper before Michael Hrabak and Selvy sparked an 18-4 run that propelled the Barako Bull to 52-40 halftime advantage. (DBC)

The scores:

SMB 99 – Freeman 33, Hontiveros 23, Ildefonso 14, Pena 10, Pennisi 9, Villanueva 6, Pingris 2, Racela 2, Custodio 0, Bono 2, Washington 0, Gonzales 0.

Barako Bull 92 – Selvy 32, Duncil 18, Espinas 12, Hrabak 7, Sharma 6, Chan 5, Crisano 5, Najorda 3, Rodriguez 2, Juntilla 2, Membrere 0, Ybanez 0.

Quarterscores: 26-32; 52-40; 69-70; 99-92

SMB WALLOPS PUREFOODS, STAYS ON TOP

2009-03-13T18:36:00.000-07:00

SMB WALLOPS PUREFOODS, STAYS ON TOP

Beermen hold J Yap to 3 points

Friday, 13 March 2009

Source: PBA.PH

With injuries and all, San Miguel Beer is off to a hot start in the import-laced tourney.

And it's not just all about the Beermen's reinforcement.

SMB made it three-of-three so far in the Motolite PBA Fiesta Conference as it sprinted out of the gate and coasted to a 122-103 victory over erstwhile co-leader Purefoods Tender Juicy Friday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Beermen were simply mean and unforgiving in their rout of the Giants, their third in a row following earlier victories over the Alaska Milk Aces and the Burger King Titans.

"We came out with a defensive mindset. We stuck with the plan and somehow we caught them in their off-night," said San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen.

"Not taking anything away from our boys' efforts, pero hindi talaga maka-convert ang Purefoods," Tanquingcen added.

Purefoods suffered its first loss in three games with main man James Yap being the biggest flop with an atrocious 1-of-12 shooting.

He scored only three points, his least output since going scoreless on Oct. 22, 2004 in an 89-87 decision over Sta. Lucia.

Before Friday's game, the one-time MVP winner averaged 26 points, No. 1 in the tourney among locals and No. 5 overall including the imports.

Kerby Raymundo, the other half of the Giants' dreaded one-two punch, was held down to six points in the first half before getting away with 15 in the second half to pace Purefoods with 19.

Purefoods import Brian Hamilton himself was way off from his impressive debut against Talk n Text where he churned out triple-double numbers. The Louisiana-Lafayette U product struggled for 18 points and 11 rebounds against the Beermen.

With a good defense in place against Yap and Raymundo, the Beermen utterly dominated the Giants, leading by as many as 39 points, 83-44, early in the second half.

From there, the best the Giants could do was trim the deficit to what it was in the end.

The Beermen jumped the gun on the Giants, taking the first quarter at 35-21 and the half at 70-39.

SMB had the game all but wrapped up in the first half while shooting 60 percent as against Purefoods' 37.8-percent clip.

The Beermen have gone 3-0 in the tourney, gaining solo leadership minus injured stars Danny Seigle, Lordy Tugade, Danny Ildefonso, Marc Pingris and Mike Cortez.(NC)

The scores:

San Miguel 122 -- Pena 17, Racela 16, Gonzales 15, Washington 14, Pennisi 13, Custodio 11, Hontiveros 11, Freeman 10, Villanueva 9, Calaguio 6, Bono 0, Eman 0.

Purefoods 103 -- Raymundo 19, Hamilton 18, Villanueva 18, Simon 13, Canaleta 9, Allado 7, Vergara 7, Yap R. 6, Yap J. 3, Robinson 2, Alvarez 0, Adducul 0.

Quarterscores: 35-21, 70-39, 99-69, 122-103

SMB’S FUTURE AT THE BACKCOURT EMERGES

2009-03-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

SMB’S FUTURE AT THE BACKCOURT EMERGES
Player of the Week Feb. 28 to March 8
Wednesday, 11 March 2009

Source: PBA.PH

WHEN Jonas Villanueva entered the San Miguel Beer organization, he knew he will have to bide his time and play behind the likes of Olsen Racela and Mike Cortez at the point guard spot.
When Cortez got sidelined by an ACL early last season, Villanueva knew the wait will be shorter than expected. He also knew he was ready.
Villanueva showed this the most in the week that was, putting up back-to-back memorable games and helping the Beermen take a share of the lead in the 2009 Motolite PBA Fiesta Conference.
In the process, the 25-year-old Bocaue, Bulacan-born playmaker was voted as the KFC/Accel-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the extended Feb. 28-March 8 opening period.
The former Far Eastern U mainstay, picked at ninth overall in the 2007 Rookie Draft, surely earned it by displaying a relatively surprising, quick way in which he adjusted after being eased into the starting point guard role in the season-ending tournament.
“He has always had the tools, even when we first picked him up. Ngayon nadagdag are 'yung opportunity and confidence,” explained San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen.
Villanueva has so far proven the trust in him was well-founded.
First, he played like the import the Beermen did not have in notching a career-high 27 points in a 93-89 victory over Alaska last March 1, before coming back with a 16-point performance in a 114-105 win over erstwhile unbeaten Burger King a week later.
In those two games, the 6-foot Villanueva attempted 13 shots in each game, making a total of 15, while averaging 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists.
No one expressed more elation on this pleasant turn of events than Tanquingcen.
“He's showing a lot of maturity in his game. The experience this past all-Filipino conference made him tougher both physically and more importantly, mentally,” he said.
Those wins also pushed San Miguel into a tie for the lead with co-unbeaten Purefoods that is led by James Yap, the same man edged out by Villanueva in the voting.
If things go as planned, Cortez is set to make his return midway in the tournament. The Beermen know there's no need to rush.
Not with Villanueva showing he is very capable of holding the fort. (NCo)

BEERMEN BRING BURGER KING BACK TO EARTH

2009-03-09T01:05:00.000-07:00

BEERMEN BRING BURGER KING BACK TO EARTH

Freeman scorches hoops with 40 as SMB gets piece of lead

Sunday, 08 March 2009

Source: PBA.PH

SAN Miguel Beer has shown it could win without an import. With one, it only reinforced its status as one of the teams to beat in the Motolite PBA Fiesta Conference.

The Beermen, who won the Fiesta title in 2005, paraded a surprise package in Gabe Freeman to notch a 114-105 victory over erstwhile unbeaten Burger King Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Freeman, who planed in only last Saturday and had just one practice session with SMB, scored 17 of his game-high 40 points in the fourth quarter, including 10 of his team's last 17 points.

It was the third highest output in the conference after Rod Nealy’s 42 when Barangay Ginebra defeated Coca-Cola 110-103 last Wednesday and Scooter McFadgon’s 41 in Barako Bull’s 91-83 loss to Rain or Shine last March 1.

With Freeman taking over, the Beermen had little trouble easing their way to a fitting follow-up to their 93-89 win over Alaska last Wednesday, when they played without a reinforcement.

“We knew he was a live wire, aggressive, what we think na kailangan ng team,” said SMB coach Siot Tanquingcen of the 23-year-old who was a former player of Alton Lister, the Beermen's big man coach, in the CBA.

“We also knew he would bring in energy, offensive rebounding,” Tanquingcen added. “We did not expect his scoring. It was a pleasant surprise he scored so many points.”

Freeman also had 17 rebounds in his PBA debut. Not bad for a man who was hastily called in after SMB's original choice, Nate Carter, failed to secure his release papers from the St. Etienne BC in France.

Burger King coach Yeng Guiao opted not to play import Shawn Daniels in the last 18 minutes of the game, but the team still remained on track to rack up its third straight win after grittily fighting back from 26 points down and threatening within 94-97 with 3:33 to go.

But the Titans' bid vanished quickly when Freeman took over while getting plenty of support from the likes of Dondon Hontiveros, Jonas Villanueva and Bonbon Custodio.

Arwind Santos led Burger King with 26 points and eight rebounds, with four teammates chipping in at least 10 points, including Beau Belga's career-high 17. Daniels wound up with 10 points and nine rebounds in 25 minutes.

“Hindi ko lang ginamit,” was Guiao's simple explanation of his decision to bench Daniels.
Providing their reinforcement chief support were SMB's Jay Washington, Villanueva and Dorian Pena, who had at least 15 points and four rebounds each.

The not-so-pretty finish was what worries Tanquingcen the most.

“That's a big concern of ours. We cannot let down on defense,” he said.

Burger King actually started hot, racing to 10-point leads twice, the last at 24-14, 4:05 left in the first quarter.

But once SMB put its act together, there was no virtually no stopping it.

The Beermen showed this first by banking on Freeman and Pena in an 18-4 assault that gave them the lead for good at 32-28, before holding the Titans to just 14 points (7-of-21 field shooting, six turnovers) in all of the second quarter for a 56-42 lead at the half.

With the likes of Washington, Olsen Racela and Villanueva joining in on the scoring act, the one-sided trend continued in the third quarter.

Villanueva's triple made it 68-48, before his three-point play and Freeman's emphatic dunk off his own steal pegged an imposing 81-55 count, 3:30 left in the period. (NCo)

The scores:

San Miguel Beer 114 - Freeman 40, Washington 17, Villanueva 16, Pena 15, Racela 8, Custodio 7, Pennisi 5, Hontiveros 4, Gonzales 2, Bono 0.

Burger King 105 -Santos 26, Belga 17, David 13, Quinahan 10, Daniels 10, Baguio 8, Rodriguez 5, Arboleda 5, Cruz M. 4, Cruz C. 3, Villanueva 2, Alonzo 2, Billones 0.

Quarterscores: 27-28, 56-42, 85-66, 114-105.

TNT BEATS SMB IN GAME 6 OT THRILLER TO ADVANCE TO FINALS

2009-01-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

TNT BEATS SMB IN GAME 6 OT THRILLER TO ADVANCE TO FINALS

League’s highest-scoring backcourt duo virtually do it all for Tropang Texters

Sunday, 25 January 2009

Talk ’N Text displayed tremendous endgame poise in overtime as it downed San Miguel Beer, 116-115, in Game 6 of their semifinals series to book a Finals seat in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup Sunday night at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

Mark Cardona led the Tropang Texters with a personal series-best 34 points, including the go-ahead three-pointer as his took a 116-115 lead with 1:41 left in the extra period.

When the final buzzer sounded the 6-foot-2 Cardona saluted the pro-SMB crowd who had been harsh on the 6-foot-2 shooting guard in this best-of-seven Final Four series, which TNT won, 4-2.

Cardona, the former De La Salle University stalwart who is one of the strong contenders for the Best Player of the Conference, went 13-of-24 from the field, including 7-of-15 from the three-point territory.

The Tropang Texters will thus be playing in the all-Filipino Finals for the first time since losing to Barangay Ginebra in the 2004-05 Philippine Cup.

Point guard Jimmy Alapag also delivered solid numbers for TNT with 27 points, while forward Harvey Carey had four points and a personal-conference high 22 rebounds, which typified the team’s determination despite the absence of the ‘de Ocampo Brothers’, Yancy and Ranidel.

Yancy was fined P20, 000 and served a one-game suspension for committing a Flagrant Foul Penalty 2 on SMB’s Danny Seigle in Game 5, while Ranidel was banished from the game in the second quarter for committing the same FFP2 offense.

“I just kept telling my players during huddle, ‘just go all out and play with your hearts’,” said Talk ’N Text coach Chot Reyes.

Reyes is in the Finals as a coach for the first time since guiding SMB to the 2006-07 Philippine Cup against eventual champion Ginebra. He is looking to become the first PBA coach to win three AFC championships with three different teams.

Reyes won his first two with Purefoods (1993) and Coca-Cola (2002). He already won a total of four championships, two each with Purefoods and Coke.

“Today (yesterday) marked one year when (TNT owner) Manny V. Pangilinan and (team representative) Ricky Vargas approached me to coach Talk ’N Text. I told them to give me one year and I’ll bring this team to the Finals,” he added.

While Reyes is eying his fifth overall PBA championship, TNT is gunning only for its second and first since winning it in 2003 AFC.

The Tropang Texters actually had a chance to win it in regulation with the score tied at 111-111, but Alapag’s three-point attempt was way off its target.

The last time the Beermen had the lead was when former TNT Jay Washington, who was dealt to SMB in a Draft Day trade, made a putback, 115-113, with 1:57 left in OT.

After Cardona’s trey, both teams traded missed shots. When Washington missed his attempt at point-blank range, TNT also missed but they got the rebound, first was when Ali Peek missed and Carey gabbed the rebound and when Jason Castro’s lay-up was off which Carey tried to tip it in.

Although Carey missed, the leather was tapped by Peek and Cardona grabbed the loose ball as time expired.

It was the fifth elimination game for SMB, winning two in the wildcard phase against Coca-Cola and Air21, in Game 3 of its quarterfinals series with Ginebra and in Game 5 of this series.

Jared Dillinger finished with 14 points for TNT, while Ranidel de Ocampo, who was ejected from the game when he appeared to have stuck his right-foot on a three-point shooting Lordy Tugade, had 11 and eight boards before leaving the game.

De Ocampo’s FFP2 almost always means an automatic for suspension and a P20, 000 fine

Seigle led SMB with a personal conference-best 32 points, while Washington contributed 19 and 10 boards. Marc Pingris added 16 points with nine rebounds and Hontiveros had 15.

TNT, which led by as many as 17 points in the third quarter (77-60), shot 38-of-94 or 40.4 percent from the field, while SMB converted 36-of-92 or 39.1 percent. The Beermen also controlled the boards, 59-57. (WG)

The scores:

Talk N' Text 116 - Cardona 34, Alapag 27, Dillinger 14, De Ocampo 11, Peek 9, Ritualo 7, Castro 6, Aljamal 4, Carey 4, Reyes 0, Lao 0.

San Miguel 115 - Seigle 32, Washington 19, Pingris 16, Hontiveros 15, Villanueva 9, Tugade 9, Custodio 8, Pennisi 7, Gonzales 0, Racela 0.

Quarterscores: 35-30, 62-58, 89-80, 111-111, OT 116-115.

Source: PBA.PH

Exciting face-offs

2009-01-12T19:53:00.000-08:00

Exciting face-offs

Realtors take on Aces; Beermen meet Texters

The KFC Philippine Cup Final Four couldn’t have been this better.

Defending champion Sta. Lucia relives its budding rivalry with top ranked Alaska while no. 2 seed Talk ‘N Text clashes with surging survivor San Miguel Beer in an exciting pair of best-of-seven showdown serving as a fitting climax to the season-opening meet.

“Pampagana pa lang `yung wild card and quarterfinals series natin because the semifinals are even more exciting. So I hope PBA fans would enjoy it,” said league commissioner Sonny Barrios.

The Final Four series begins tomorrow at the Araneta Coliseum, barely three days after the Beermen came back from 21-points down to oust the Barangay Ginebra Kings, 98-93, in their thrilling knockout game for the last semifinals berth.

Dondon Hontiveros sizzled during the best-of-three series, averaging 27.7 points per game, on 52.4 percent shooting from three-point range and 50 percent shooting from the floor.

Against Talk ‘N Text, the 6-foot-2 Cebuano gunner is expected to engage in a shooting duel with league scoring leader Mac Mac Cardona.

A subplot to the match up is the meeting between Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes and San Miguel, the same team he steered to a runner up finish in the same tournament two years ago, ditto with Beerman Jay Washington up against his former teammates after the Tropang Texters traded the 6-foot-7 center to their rival franchise prior to the start of the season.

Just as interesting is the Realtors-Aces face-off.

The two engaged in a fierce, hotly-contested semis series a year ago that went the full route and won by Sta. Lucia on its way to bagging the PBA’s most coveted championship.

The encounter is expected to revive the coaching duel between Boyet Fernandez of Sta. Lucia and Alaska’s Tim Cone, whose word war stemming from a Kelly Williams slam dunk in the waning seconds of Game 2 which the Realtors won, added fire and drama to the best-of-seven affair.

Williams, veteran big men Marlou Aquino and Dennis Espino, Nelbert Omolon and gung-ho guard Joseph Yeo will be back to spearhead the team’s bid to become the first back-to-back champion of the Philippine Cup since Great Taste in 1985.

But seeking payback and out to thwart the Realtors’ bid for a shot at history are the well-rested Aces, who got even bigger and versatile this season following the off-season acquisition of Joe DeVance.

For finishing as the top two teams at the end of the eliminations, both Alaska and Talk ‘N Text earner outright berths to the semis.

Source: http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2009-01-13&sec=7&aid=82722

King of Beermen shames Gin Kings

2009-01-12T19:50:00.000-08:00

King of Beermen shames Gin Kings
Updated January 13, 2009 12:00 AM

Dondon Hontiveros

The opposing teams know San Miguel Beer’s Dondon Hontiveros is one potent all-around weapon. They also realize that knowing is one thing, doing something about it is an entirely different matter.

Not when Hontiveros is on fire.

And he was undoubtedly in a zone when it mattered most, keeping the Beermen on track for a cherished PBA Philippine Cup goal and in the process earning for himself the KFC/Accel-PBA Press Corps’ Player of the Week honors for the period Jan. 5 to 11.

“He’s the main reason we’re through to the semifinals,” said SMB coach Siot Tanquingcen, referring to the 6-foot-2 guard who led the team past Barangay Ginebra in their best-of-three quarterfinals series that went the full route.

In a dazzling display of firepower, the 31-year-old Cebuano hotshot averaged 28 points, including 34 in a 98-93 win last Sunday that enabled the Beermen to wrap up the series and advance to the semis against early qualifier Talk n Text.

The quarterfinals was as good a time as any for Hontiveros to continue ratcheting up his averages, which started with 13.6 ppg in the 18-game eliminations and went up to 16.5 in the wildcard.

Hontiveros maintains it was just a matter of living up to the trust by his teammates ‘Just be confident, ‘ he said.

Source: http://philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=431305&publicationSubCategoryId=69

No reprieve for Racela

2009-01-12T19:48:00.000-08:00

No reprieve for Racela
By Joaquin Henson Updated January 13, 2009 12:00 AM

With or without malicious intent, veteran Olsen Racela was slapped a one-game suspension for his ejection on a flagrant foul-penalty two in the first quarter of San Miguel Beer’s 98-93 win over Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome last Sunday.

The suspension means Racela will sit out Game 1 of the San Miguel-Talk n Text best-of-7 semifinal series starting tomorrow at the Araneta Coliseum.

Racela was summoned by PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios to the league office in Pasig yesterday morning. He was informed of the suspension by Barrios in the presence of supervisor of officials Ramil Cruz.

A replay of the game tape showed Racela’s foot in the space where Jay-Jay Helterbrand landed after taking a three-point shot. He was ejected with 8:59 left in the period and Ginebra ahead, 4-2. PBA officials reviewed the tape and recommended the one-game suspension based on the so-called “landing spot rule.”

Barrios explained that when a defensive player intervenes in the space where an offensive player lands, specifically if a foot is in the way, the call is an automatic flagrant foul. If there is no contact, the call is a flagrant foul-penalty one which means two free throws, possession and a mandatory three-minute rest on the bench (to increase to five minutes on a second team flagrant foul). If there is contact, the call is a flagrant foul-penalty two which means two free throws, possession, ejection and a one-game suspension subject to review.

PBA technical consultant Romy Guevara said the previous “landing spot” rule was a technical foul without contact and a flagrant foul-penalty one with contact. But the rule was amended by the Board of Governors on the motion of San Miguel Beer governor Ely Capacio, a former PBA cager who batted to upgrade the penalties.

“The players themselves wanted us to tighten up on this rule,” said Barrios. “That’s why Ely, being a former PBA player, pushed for the upgrading of the penalties because this violation is potentially career-threatening and extremely dangerous.”

But Barrios qualified the suspension is not automatic on a flagrant foul-penalty two.

In Paul Artadi’s case in a Barangay Ginebra-Rain or Shine game last Dec. 25, he was ejected on the infraction but was spared a suspension.

Barrios pointed out that three elements must be determined to spare the offender of a suspension.

“First, the defensive player must be coming in from the side, not head to head,” said Barrios. “Second, the defensive player must be in airborne position so that he is not able to establish his landing spot. If a shooter is airborne and the defender is on the ground, the situation is different because the defender takes a superior position. Third, the offensive player is moving forward on his shot and lands where the defending player is. In Artadi’s case, all three elements were seen on tape and that’s why he wasn’t suspended.”

Barrios said calling the foul is simple. “We call it the landing spot rule because if there is interference on the spot where an airborne offensive player lands, the call is an automatic flagrant foul. If there is no contact, it’s a flagrant one. If there’s contact, it’s a flagrant two. It’s as simple as that. We’re not in a position to judge if there was malicious intent or not because we don’t get into the mind of a player. We make a call based on an action not on anyone’s intention.”

Source: http://philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=431307&publicationSubCategoryId=69

San Miguel beats Coke the hard way

2008-11-12T18:27:00.000-08:00

San Miguel beats Coke the hard way

By Arman Carandang

11/13/2008

San Miguel Beer stretched its bench to its fullest during crunch time to quell Coca-Cola’s challenge, 89-86, in a game coach Siot Tanquincen said he didn’t expect to end the hard way in the KFC-PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome last night.

“We didn’t expect to win this close, but we didn’t also take Coca-Cola for granted,” said Tanquincen, somewhat stunned by the Tigers’ challenge.

“As I have said very often, Coke will be a force to reckon with as the season progresses. It’s a good thing we won, but we won it the hard way,” added Tanquincen, whose Beermen have now notched their seventh win in nine outings to tie Alaska Milk at the top.

The Beermen were actually in for strong wind-up when they posted an 86-76 lead entering the last 1:09 minutes.

The Beermen found the Tigers clawing back into contention as Alex Cabagnot, who scored Coke’s last seven points, shoved the Tigers within 86-88 on two charities off Mark Pingris with 8.3 seconds left.

In the ensuing play, Mic Pennisi, who drew a foul from Asi Taulava, split his free throws, 89-86, with coach Kenneth Duremdes suing for time to design game-tying play.

The Tigers failed to carry out their last play, with Cabagnot missing a three-point try at the buzzer. The Tigers reeled to their sixth loss in nine games.

Pennisi finished with 18 points and nine rebounds, while four others — Dondon Hontiveros, Wesley Gonzales, Lordy Tugade and Pingris — turned in twin-digit outputs for the Beermen, who trailed midway in the second quarter at 29-38.

Meanwhile, RP team coach Yeng Guiao will meet today with the members of PBA Board of Governors and league commissioner Renauld “Sonny” Barrios to discuss the all-pro team’s preparation for the Fiba-Asia Championship next year.

Source: http://www.tribune.net.ph/sports/20081113spo4.html

PBA Pre-Season Tournament: Washington leads SMB past Bulls

2008-09-18T03:31:00.001-07:00

PBA Pre-Season Tournament: Washington leads SMB past Bulls
Manila Bulletin
September 17, 2008

Jay Washington and Mick Pennisi seemed perfectly fit for their new home -- San Miguel Beer.

Washington scored 18 points and Pennisi had six points, five rebounds and two assists as the Beermen beat the Red Bull Barakos, 99-90, on Monday at the start of the PBA pre-season tournament at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines gym.

By acquiring the two via separate trades, SMB became bigger and beefier and in process presenting match-up nightmare for opponents which the Barakos encountered through the game.

Apart from it, Washington and Pennisi are also blessed with good shooting touch so they provide coach Siot Tanquingcen a lot of offensive options other than Dondon Hontiveros, Danny Seigle and Danny Ildefonso.

"They're a big team. Obviously the addition of Mick and JayWash has made SMB a tough match-up," observed Red Bull deputy coach Gee Abanilla, who called the shots for the Barakos.

Tanquingcen though insists his troops need some more fine tuning to be fully cohesive.

Expectations, he admits, are high but it remains to be seen whether his new-look team is up to the task.

"It's always been that way. Expectations are always high. Hopefully this time we could deliver," Tanquingcen said.

Against a team that let go off three key players (Pennisi, Topex Robinson and Kiko Adriano), the Beermen dominated the game early and practically settled the issue by halftime as they cruised to a 64-40 advantage.

Cyrus Baguio scored 15 points to show the way for the Barakos.

The scores:

SMB 99 -- Washington 18, Seigle 15, Gonzales 15, Hontiveros 11, Pena 8, Bono 7, Pennisi 6, Custodio 5, Racaela 5, Calaguio 3, Villanueva 2, Pingris 2, Cortez 2.

Red Bull 90 -- Baguio 15, Sharma 14, Alvarez 9, Espinas 9, Membrere 8, Cruz 7, Magpayo 6, Rodriguez 6, Hubalde 6, Ybanez 3, Najorda 2 Hrabak 0, Duncil 0.

Quarters: 29-23; 64-40; 84-58; 99-90

Source: http://www.surfshop.net.ph/pba2/news/?id=5685

Beermen debut versus tall Qataris

2008-09-18T03:31:00.000-07:00

Beermen debut versus tall Qataris
By Romina Austria, INQUIRER.net
September 18, 2008

DOHA -- San Miguel Beer will have to work double time when it faces the Qatar national team on Thursday as the host country boasts a lineup that has only two players standing below 6-feet.

To make matters worse, Lordy Tugade, Danny Ildefonso and Mick Pennisi did not join the Beermen, who arrived here Tuesday night. Tugade is nursing an injury while Ildefonso and Pennisi have other commitments.

The 6-foot-5 Marc Pingris will play on Thursday but will return home for a family affair, missing the Beermen's succeeding games against Egypt's national squad and local ballclub Al Sadd.

Qatar's tallest player is 6-11 Hashim Zaidan Zaidan. It also has 6-foot-9 Omer Abgader Salem, 6-8 Ali Turki Ali, three 6-7 players in Erfan Ali Saeed, Baker Ahmad Mohammed and Hammam Omer Ismaili and 6-6 Khalid Suliman Abdi.

Only 5-7 Khalid Masoud Al Nasr and Mansour Atif Elhadary, who is 5-11, stand below 6 feet.

Coach Siot Tanquingcen thus expects Pingris and 6-6 Dorian Peña and Danny Seigle to rise to the occasion.

The game will also serve as a good workout for 6-7 Jay Washington, who was sent by Talk 'N Text to San Miguel last month.

Source: http://www.surfshop.net.ph/pba2/news/?id=5703

SanMig back with revitalized lineup

2008-09-12T01:14:00.002-07:00

SanMig back with revitalized lineup
By Waylon Galvez, Manila Bulletin
September 12, 2008

San Miguel Corporation has decided to bring the Beermen back and shelve Magnolia when the PBA opens its 34th season next month.

San Miguel is the league's all time leader in championships with 17 conference titles to its name but has not won a single title the last three years.

The team hopes to end the drought with new recruits from other teams.

The Beermen yesterday formally welcomed wingman Anthony Jay Washington, center Mick Pennisi and rookie guard Bon-Bon Custodio who all attended team practice and later met with the top executives of the company.

"We are happy with the players we got this off-season," said SMB team manager Hector Calma, a former national player who won seven of his eight PBA championships as a player of San Miguel in the 80s.

The 6-foot-6 Washington recently signed a three-year deal with SMB.

Although Calma refused to divulge details of the contract, he mentioned it's near the maximum salary of R350,000 monthly.

SMB got Washington via a trade with Talk 'N Text for the No. 3 overall pick in the PBA Rookie Draft few weeks back.

However, a league insider, who asked not to be named, said that Washington's contract is worth between R10 million to R12 million.

As for the 6-foot-9 Pennisi, the team obtained his rights from Red Bull, also via a trade in exchange for a first round pick next year.

The team will continue paying the remainder of his contract, which expires in 2010.

The addition of Washington and Pennisi solidified the team's frontline, specially now that former two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) Danny Ildefonso is recuperating from a foot injury.

Aside from Ildefenso, the Beermen decided to place 6-foot-9 Samigue Eman, the No. 2 overall in last year's Rookie Draft, on the injured list.

The two will join the team's formidable frontline unit of Marc Pingris, Dorian Peña and Danny Seigle.

Washington, the former No. 1 pick in the Draft in 2005, played his first three seasons with TNT, while Pennisi was the last remaining Red Bull player from its original roster when it joined the PBA in 2000.

On the other hand, the 6-foot Custodio, who played for University of the East in the UAAP and for San Mig-Coffee in the PBL, inked a two-year deal.

He was drafted No. 8 overall in the first round.

"Maganda ang pinakikita ni Bon-Bon sa ensayo, and we're optimistic na makakatulong s'ya sa team," Calma said.

SMB inks J-Wash to P10M deal; rookie Bonbon signed too

2008-09-12T01:14:00.001-07:00

SMB inks J-Wash to P10M deal; rookie Bonbon signed too
GMANews.TV
September 12, 2008

San Miguel Beer signed prized acquisition Jay Washington to a three-year contract approximately worth P10 million.

The Beermen also inked Bonbon Custodio to a two-year pact on Wednesday. Terms of Custodio's deal were not disclosed.

San Miguel acquired the six-foot-eight Washington, a Philippine Basketball Association Mythical Team member in 2007, from Talk 'N Text on the Rookie Draft day. In turn, the Beermen gave up their no.3 pick which turned out to be Jason Castro.

Custodio, the shooting guard out University of the East, was selected no. 8 overall by San Miguel.

The twin signings came on the day the Beermen also acquired big man Mick Pennisi from Red Bull.

Robert Non, chief of basketball operations of the San Miguel ballclubs, said that the signing of all players of Ginebra and San Miguel will be completed within the next three weeks.

Non said that team officials are waiting for the arrival of players who are still in vacation.

That includes Danny Seigle who has been rumored to be on the trading block after having a dismal tournament in the PBA Fiesta Cup.

Seigle was hardly a factor last conference, particularly in the Fiesta semifinals where the Beermen lost to the Air21 Express 4-2.

Big man Pennisi brings shooting touch to SMB 5

2008-09-12T01:13:00.001-07:00

Big man Pennisi brings shooting touch to SMB 5
GMANews.TV
September 12, 2008

A new breed of Red Bull Barakos will open the 2008-'09 season of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) after the Photokina franchise finally let go of the only remaining link from its original core that entered the league eight years ago.

The Barakos unloaded Mick Pennisi and traded big-man shooter to San Miguel Beer in exchange for the Beermen's first-round draft pick in 2010.

The six-foot-11 Pennisi, an intimidating presence at the frontcourt with a great touch from the outside, was Red Bull's direct US-raised Filipino hire when it entered the pro league in 2000 following a successful stint in the amateurs.

With him in the original Red Bull roster were Lordy Tugade, Jimwell Torion, Davon Harp, Kerby Raymundo, Junthy Valenzuela and Bernard Tanpua, all of who were elevated by the franchise from its Philippine Basketball League ball club.

Tugade is with San Miguel, Raymundo with Purefoods and Valenzuela with Ginebra. Torion, Harp and Tanpua are already out of the league.

At San Miguel, Pennisi will be reunited with Tugade, his long-time Red Bull teammate.

"He's a great addition," said San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen of Pennisi. "His experience will be of great help."

Bleeding over for Pals; 'Masters' survive Tigers

2008-06-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Bleeding over for Pals; 'Masters' survive Tigers

Source: www.journal.com.ph

REN-REN Ritualo drained a double-pump jumper with 6.4 seconds left, and then Talk ‘N Text’s defense pulled through when it counted most as the Phone Pals snapped an alarming 5-game losing streak last night, holding off Purefoods, 102-101, in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Cuneta Astrodome.

The Phone Pals lost a 7-point lead in the last 1:53. But Ritualo was there to the rescue, barely beating the shot-clock and knocking in the winning basket despite an honest-to-goodness defense from Roger Yap.

The Giants still were left with plenty of time to steal the game, and devised an offense built around James Yap, a play similar to the one when Purefoods beat Red Bull in its previous outing on the 2006 MVP’s fallaway jumper with 0.7 seconds to go.

But Talk ‘N Text import Terrence Leather took the former MVP on the defensive end. James Yap took the inbounds pass from Roger Yap and drove to the basket, but deferred attempting and instead opted to dish off a pass to Roger Yap who was at the left corner.

Roger Yap made the attempt but was partially blocked by Ali Peek, the ball rolling into the shaded area as time expired.

“Well, it was a strategy that worked for us,” said Talk ‘N Text coach Chot Reyes of his decision to assign Leather on James Yap. “Kung binigay nila yung play kay Kerby (Raymundo) o hindi kaya kay (Reda) Rhalimi, then patay naman kami sa ilalim."

In the second game, Magnolia survived a furious rally by Coca-Cola in the endgame to eke out an 81-77 victory.

The Beverage Masters now improved to a 9-7 win-loss record tied with the Tigers.

Lordy Tugade was named Best Player of the Game, finishing with 14 points -- including the game-winning free throws -- to pace the Beverage Masters’ second straight victory.

The scores:
Talk ‘N Text (102) -- Leather 39, Cardona 17, Ritualo 16, Peek 10, Alapag 9, Carey 4, Allado 4, Belano 3, Washington 0, Chia 0, De Ocampo 0.
Purefoods (101) -- Rhalimi 21, Simon 19, Yap, J. 17, Villanueva 11, Lanete 10, Raymundo 9, Yap , R. 8, Evangelista 8, Salvador 0.
Quarterscores: 21-27; 41-50; 78-76; 102-101.

Magnolia (81) -- Tugade 14, Pena 13, McCaskill 12, Ildefonso 11, Pingris 10, Seigle 9, Racela 5, Hontiveros 5, Cortez 2, Villanueva 0.
Coca-Cola (77) -- Catli 17, Dixon 15, Taulava 15, Cabagnot 12, Copeland 9, Buenafe 6, Belasco 3, Calimag 0, Arigo 0, Telan 0.
Quarterscores: 17-19, 32-27, 59-58, 81-77.

'Masters' extend Realtors' woes; Express nip Pals

2008-06-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

'Masters' extend Realtors' woes; Express nip Pals

By: Zean Macamay

Source: www.journal.com.ph

Standings
W L
Red Bull 9 5
Coca-Cola 9 5
Air21 9 6
Alaska 8 6
Magnolia 8 7
Talk N Text 7 8
Ginebra 6 8
Purefoods 6 8
Sta. Lucia 6 8
Welcoat 4 11

EVERYONE had their attention on the two new imports. Not long after, one of the newest local players to step onto the pro league was getting all the praises.

Rookie Jonas Villanueva scored a career-high 12 points including nine straight in a decisive fourth-quarter run and Magnolia held Sta. Lucia Realty to a season-low tying output, beating the Realtors last night, 80-74, in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Astrodome.

The former FEU stalwart and 9th pick in the 2008 draft shot 4-of-6 from the field and played much of his 19-minute stint on the floor orchestrating the Beverage Masters’ offense, a huge lift for a team that missed the services of Mike Cortez because of a stiff back.

“It just shows how talented he is,” said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen of Villanueva. “He just has to pick his time, and tonight he stepped up.”

Amal McCaskill, Magnolia’s new import, collected 18 rebounds and 16 points on 6-of-12 shooting to lead the Beverage Masters, who now have eight wins in 14 games but still remain in solo fifth spot.

Dondon Hontiveros added 14 points, and Danny Seigle contributed 11 points and five rebounds for Magnolia, which lost to Red Bull in its previous game.

Lee Benson, the man that was the center of interest spawned by his background, did well for a first-timer import with 19 points and 17 rebounds. But the former NBA prospect who spent 8 1/2 years in prison only got a trickle of support from the rest, with Kelly Williams, back after missing one game for tying the knot in the U.S. , and Nelbert Omolon only the two players submitting double figure outputs.

It was the kind of game the Realtors wanted �" low-scoring and defense-oriented. But they couldn’t get into a flow on offense in the third quarter and were outscored, 23-14. When Magnolia erected a 14-point, 60-46 lead in the period, they never really mounted a serious rally.

As a result, Sta. Lucia was limited to a franchise-tying lowest production, with its previous low not too long ago when the Realtors lost to Philippine Cup Finals opponent Purefoods only last May 25, 82-74.

Actually, this was the second time that Villanueva set a career high on points. Against the Bulls last June 8, he scored 11 points but ended up on a losing cause, 84-75.

This time, he made sure he would carry the Beverage Masters to victory.
Villanueva, who has only averaged 4.4 points and 1.8 rebounds in nine games, clustered nine points early in the fourth quarter. When he was finished with his scoring spree, the Beverage Masters were comfortably ahead, 72-57.

Earlier, though, he was the one who gave Magnolia its biggest lead of the game, hitting a triple with 8:08 left in the game as the Beverage Masters took a 70-53 spread.

The win also will come as a fitting present for Seigle, who turns 32 today.
Already on a slump and trying to stop its longest losing streak in the season, Sta. Lucia now has gone deeper in the standings. The loss was the Realtors’ fourth straight, and dropped Sta. Lucia to 6-8 (win-loss) overall in a tie with Purefoods and Ginebra.

The Realtors have lost five of their last six, six of their eight, and eight of their last 10 outings since going 3-0 at the start of the conference. Sta. Lucia also has not won in this arena this conference, going 0-4.

In the second game, Air21 Express relied on Gary David’s heroics in the endgame to eke out a thrilling 112-111 come-from-behind victory against erstwhile powerhouse Talk N Text Phone Pals.

David scored the crucial free throw in the last 1.5 seconds of the game off a foul by Jimmy Alapag to turn disaster into victory.

That foul was sparked by a turnover of TNT’s Mac Cardona in the final 15 seconds of the game where the score was tied at 111-all, and that sealed the Express’ninth win in as many games.

David put on a stellar performance for the Express, finishing a personal conference high of 25 points, while Steve Thomas and KC Canaleta added 23 and 20 points, respectively.

Talk N Text’s new import, Terrance Leather, provided 29 points for his debut game, but it was not enough to power the Phone Pals to victory and dealt them their fifth straight loss since losing to Purefoods, 79-84, last May 21.

Jimmy Alapag and Jay Washington paced the Phone Pals with 19 and 14 points, respectively. With Elmer Manuel

The scores:
Magnolia (80) -- McCaskill 16, Hontiveros 14, Villanueva 12, Seigle 11, Pena 9, Pingris 7, Ildefonso 6, Tugade 5, Racela 0.
Sta. Lucia (74) -- Benson 19, Williams 16, Omolon 11, Espino 8, Mendoza 8, Miranda 6, Reyes 2, Aquino 2, Gonzales 2, Coronel 0.
Quarterscores: 20-16, 37-37, 60-51, 80-74.

Air21 (112) -- David 25, Thomas 23, Canaleta 20, De Ocampo 20, Se 8, Santos 7, Arboleda 7, Billones 5, Sotto 2, Kramer 0, Cruz 0.
Talk N Text (111) -- Leather 29, Alapag 19, Washington 14, Cardona 11, Peek 10, Carey 8, De Ocampo 8, Ritualo 6, Allado 4, Belano 2, Lao 0.
Quarterscores: 24-28, 50-57, 83-87, 111-112.

Tigers regain share of lead; Dragons torch Pals

2008-05-09T23:29:00.000-07:00

Tigers regain share of lead; Dragons torch Pals

By: Zean Macamay and Elmer Manuel

Source: Journal.com.ph

Taulava: 21 points & 15 rebounds

Standings
W L
Red Bull 6 2
Coca-Cola 6 2
Talk N Text 5 3
Air21 4 3
Sta. Lucia 4 3
Magnolia 4 4
Welcoat 3 5
Purefoods 2 4
Alaska 2 5
Ginebra 1 6

Game Today: (Calape, Bohol)
4:30 p.m.-- Alaska vs Purefoods
Games Tomorrow: (Araneta Coliseum)
4:30 p.m. -- Sta. Lucia vs Air21
6:50 p.m. -- Ginebra vs Talk ‘N Text

MAGNOLIA did a good job containing Jaxon Dixon on offense. The Beverage Masters, though, forgot all about George Gervin, Jr.

The son of one of NBA’s greatest players scored a personal conference-high 35 points and Asi Taulava collected 21 points and 15 rebounds, powering Coca-Cola to a runaway 106-92 win over Magnolia last night in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

Gervin, Jr. shot shot 13-of-26 from the floor and hit 18 points from the three-point area as the replacement import for the injured Calvin Cage may have finally convinced team officials of a permanent stay, steering the Tigers to a share of the lead with idle Red Bull at 6-2.

"It was clear from the tip-off that they want to take Dixon out. And for most part of the game, they did a good job,” said Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis. “But I thought defense was the key, and Gervin really stepped up.”

Dixon was held to a tournament low among imports with seven points, constantly double-teaming the Coca-Cola giant down low. Without finding rhythm, Dixon only took six shots in 39 minutes of action and made half of those.

But Dixon still came away with 17 rebounds �" a personal conference high �" and added three assists and three steals.

For the second straight game, Lordy Tugade led the Beverage Masters in scoring. He had 23 points, but didn’t get the support this time from the bench as when Magnolia defeated Red Bull 102-95 in Lipa City last May 4.

Jameel Watkins contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds and Mike Cortez chipped in 14 points and six assists. Dondon Hontiveros was the only other Beverage Master in double figures with 11.

Already with 18 points at the halfway mark of the game, Gervin, Jr. was not finished in dismantling Magnolia’s defense.

He scored seven more in the third period, and then had 10 points when the Tigers broke the game wide open in the fourth quarter.

With the Tigers ahead only by four points 75-71 entering the final period, Gervin, Jr. had nine points in Coca-Cola’s game-deciding 20-6 blast and they suddenly found themselves way ahead, 95-77, with only 4:17 left in the match.

"For the first time, I think we won convincingly,” said Favis.

Much of Magnolia’s woes began when import Watkins was called for his fifth foul with only 22.8 seconds left in the third quarter. He returned with still 9: 23 remaining in the game, but hardly created an impact.

The loss was the fourth in eight games for Magnolia, which shot miserably from the floor, making only 31 of its 86 attempts for a poor 36 percent clip.

The Beverage Masters also were outrebounded, 59-51 and had less points off turnovers, 18-10. But they had more fastbreak points, 21-5.

In the second game, the Welcoat Dragons proved that their earlier victories over league giants were no fluke, as they eked out a come-from-behind 116-108 victory against favored Talk N Text.

Down by 15 points in the first half, the coach Caloy Garcia-mentored team suddenly rose from the ashes, with Rob Wainwright hitting crucial back-to-back treys that gave them their first taste of the lead, 100-97, with 4:18 remaining.

Joey Mente did his share, as he completed his free throws to give the Dragons their biggest lead, 102-97.

After that, there was no looking back for the Dragons.

Wainwright was named Best Player of the Game, finishing with 24 points -- 14 points in the final period -- and nine rebounds for the Dragons’ winning cause.

Talk N Text held the lead for actually the whole game, but their defense suddenly got soft in the final canto.

Welcoat improved to 3-5, while Talk N Text dropped from a share of second place to third place with a 5-3 slate.

Meantime, Purefoods parades a new import in Rheda Rhalimi, a seven-footer, when it clashes with Alaska in Bohol as both teams try to snap their respective three-game winning streaks.

Rhalimi, a Moroccan, replaces Darius Rice, an import with talented offensive skills and who once scored a conference-high 56 points.

Rice, however, is not regarded as an import suited for the Giants because of his selfish, individual ways that deprives James Yap and Kerby Raymundo of touches on the ball.

The scores:
First Game
Coke (106) -- Gervin 35, Taulava 21, Buenafe 13, Belasco 9, Cabagnot 8, Dixon 7, Telan 7, Macapagal 6, Catli 0, Dimaunahan 0.
Magnolia (92) -- Tugade 23, Watkins 14, Cortez 14, Hontiveros 11, Pingris 7, Calaguio 6, Samigue 4, Racela 4, Villanueva 3, Gonzales 3, Tolomia 3, Pena 0.
Quarterscores: 22-26, 50-51, 75-71, 106-92.
Second Game
Welcoat (116) -- Wainwright 24, Gainous 23, Santee 15, Reyes 15, Arana 13, De Vance 11, Mente 10, Ibanes 3, Isip 2, Dulay 0, Baguion 0.
Talk N' Text (108) -- Alapag 24, McGhee 22, Cardona 19, Washington 14, Ritualo 11, De Ocampo 8, Allado 6, Carey 2, Peek 2, Chia 0, Lao 0.
Quarterscores: 18-28, 55-60, 81-82, 116-108.

Coke repulses Magnolia, catches Red Bull at helm

2008-05-09T23:26:00.000-07:00

Coke repulses Magnolia, catches Red Bull at helm
By Nelson Beltran
Saturday, May 10, 2008

Source: Philstar.com

Imports Gee Gervin and Jason Dixon came through with personal conference-high numbers, and Coca-Cola regained a share of the lead in the Smart PBA Fiesta Cup with a 106-92 victory over Magnolia at the Araneta Coliseum last night.

Gervin pumped in 35 points while Dixon pulled down 17 rebounds and added seven points, giving the Tigers tremendous boost in notching a sixth win against two defeats.

Coca-Cola caught up with erstwhile solo leader Red Bull as the Tigers dealt the Beverage Masters their fourth loss against the same number of wins.

“It was clear right from the opening tip that Magnolia came into the game with a mindset of taking Dixon away from the game. But Dixon still had his rebounds, his teammates contributed big and we won for the first time a little convincingly,” said Coca-Cola coach Binky Favis.

The Tigers made a key run with Dixon resting on the bench early in the fourth quarter, erecting a 20-point margin in one instance before completing the 14-point victory.

Dixon was limited to seven points but he made up for this with 17 rebounds, three assists and three steals. This was his biggest rebounding effort since snaring 15 caroms in his debut in the league against Talk n Text.

Gervin, Asi Taulava and Ronjay Buenafe led the Tigers in their offensive thrust with Dixon forced by the Beverage Masters to concentrate on defense.

Meanwhile, PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios is reconvening his technical staff to review their decision on the Wesley Wilson-Adam Parada fracas as Air21 team manager and board representative Lito Alvarez lodged a protest on the non-suspension of the Sta. Lucia import.

Air21 was not directly involved on the issue but reversal of the decision that would suspend Wilson would benefit the Express in their match against the Sta. Lucia Realtors are squaring off tomorrow.

“I’m questioning the decision-making of the commissioner. I’m after consistency. He has upgraded the flagrant fouls committed by James Yap and Randy Holcomb causing their suspension. He has also suspended (Nino) Canaleta. Why not Wilson?” said Alvarez.

Alaska coach Tim Cone also questioned the commissioner’s decision sparing Wilson of suspension. Wilson committed a flagrant foul on Jojo Duncil sparking a fight that marred the Red Bull-Sta. Lucia game Wednesday.

“I find the commissioner’s ruling on Wilson totally unfair after suspending our import. Wilson’s foul was done with extreme malice and premeditated with intent to hurt. Holcomb’s foul was not. Wilson should have been suspended,” said Cone.

MAGNOLIA HALTS RED BULL RUN ON THE ROAD

2008-05-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

MAGNOLIA HALTS RED BULL RUN ON THE ROAD

Tugade, Racela shine brightest against Barakos

Saturday, 03 May 2008

Source: pba.ph

LIPA CITY. – Enough of the classic Red Bull endgame comebacks and giant-killing ways.

The Magnolia Beverage Masters never let the Barakos come close to pulling off another miracle rally in the stretch of a 102-95 win on the road Saturday night.

Lordy Tugade torched his former team for 22 points while Olsen Racela turned back the hands of clock to score 19 markers – on a 7of-10 shooting from the field – for a Magnolia team that secured the victory by forcing 11 Red Bull turnovers and holding its opponent scoreless in a big game-turning third period.

Until that crucial meltdown, the Barakos were in complete control of the exciting game at the La Salle Centrum here.

Even without star forward Danny Seigle for the second straight game, the Beverage Masters continued their slow push on the upper half of the Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference standings, notching their fourth win in seven games and somehow, easing the pain of their embarrassing 101-108 setback at the hands of the Welcoat Dragons Wednesday night.

Seigle again sat out the game due to a foot injury.

The Barakos, whose last two games were punctuated by thrilling comeback victories, meanwhile, fell to a share of the top spot with idle Coca-Cola, both with similar 5-2 (win-loss) cards.

Import Adam Parada led the team with 22 points and 24 rebounds but seemed too exhausted at the time the Beverage Masters were in the midst of their searing scoring run in the second half.

Red Bull thus failed in its bid to become the first team in the conference to win four in a row.

Trailing 60-68 with 5:52 to go in the third, Magnolia began to make its move which Racela sparked with a booming trey that led to an 11-0 blast.

The 15-year veteran guard then capped the run with a lay-up that barely beat the buzzer, giving the Beverage Masters a 71-68 lead heading to the final 12 minutes.

Red Bull allowed the deficit to balloon to as many as 85-74, before it found its rhythm and tried to make a last ditch rally.

And they almost succeeded.

A three-pointer by Mick Pennisi had the Barakos outscoring the opposition, 15-8, in a four-minute span that cut Magnolia’s lead to 89-93 with 1:46 left.

The Barakos were still in the game, 97-92, when the scoring binge finally fizzled out, cut short by a dagger trey courtesy of Hontiveros that made it an 8-point Magnolia lead.

Hontiveros also had 19 points for Magnolia, while import Jameel Watkins and Mike Cortez likewise finished in double figures with 18 and 10, respectively.

Averaging 25.3 points in the Barakos’ 3-game winning run, Cyrus Baguio was held to just 17 this time. (GR)

The scores:

Magnolia 102 – Tugade 22, Racela 19, Hontiveros 19, Watkins 18, Cortez 10, Pingris 6, Pena 4, Gonzales 2, Tolomia 2, Bono 0, Calaguio 0.

Red Bull 95 – Parada 22, Baguio 17, Hrabak 14, Duncil 8, Cruz 8, Pennisi 6, Najorda 5, Sharma 4, Alvarez 4, Ybanez 0, Adriano 0.

Quarterscores: 28-26; 49-55; 71-68; 102-95.

Ginebra Remains Winless

2008-04-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

WELCOAT SCORES FIRST VICTORY; GINEBRA REMAINS WINLESS

dennis PRINCIPE

Monday, 21 April 2008

Source: www.sportsnews.ph

NOT only did Welcoat score their first win, the Dragons have also found a way to protect what is considered by more established teams a safe lead in the dying minutes of a game.

Welcoat finally notched their first ever victory this conference by defeating Purefoods TJ Giants, 110-103 in the resumption of the Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference Sunday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

Welcoat import Marquis Gainous topscored for the Dragons with 25 points but it was rookie Joe Devance who did the damage as he scored a personal conference high 16 points, nine of which in the final period to conclusively bring glee, at least last night, to what seemed to be a gloomy beginning for the Dragons.

Before the win the Dragons lost its first four games this conference as well as all its last 15 games dating back to the previous Philippine Cup. Their last two defeats could have been easily a victory for the Wellbest franchise lost come-from-behind efforts by opponents Coca-Cola Tigers (98-96) last April 9 and to the Alaska Aces (92-90) last Wednesday.

The Hawaii-born Devance, 26, drilled in a three-pointer minutes into the final canto to give Welcoat an 81-80 lead which they never relinquished from then on.

Welcoat surprised Purefoods with a blistering 17-6 attack to give the Dragons a 98-86 lead under four minutes remaining in the game.

Welcoat's frenzied assault somewhat simmered down after Purefoods import Darius Rice connected a three-pointer entering the three minute mark.

Welcoat’s new recruit Mark Isip who was part of the trade that sent Nic Belasco to Coke, converted a baseline jumper to give the Dragons its last taste of a double-digit lead, 100-89.

Purefoods guard Peter June Simon completed a fast break to pull within, 100-91. After an offensive miscue by Welcoat, Purefoods again closed the gap as Rice, fouled by Devance from beyond the three-point arc, converted three free throws.

Purefoods was able to steal the leather after those three free throws by Rice but the Giants failed to convert two attempts from outside the three-point area.

In what turned out to be the game’s turning point, Rob Wainwright, inbounding in front of their bench, found rookie Ryan Arana cutting from the baseline who then converted a quick undergoal stab to give Welcoat a 102-94 edge.

Arana, who missed one game after he fell and hit his head on the floor in their losing cause against Air21 last April 9, added nine points, six in the pivotal fourth canto.

Purefoods had their last gasp as veteran guard Roger Yap (22 points, 15 in the 4^th) completed a three point play off a foul by Marquis Gainous but Wainwright, who contributed 15 points for the Dragons, drilled in a three-pointer, his only basket in the final quarter.

Rice had 28 points for the Giants but what compounded their woes was the mediocre performance of former MVP James Yap who could only contribute seven markers, his lowest output in his last 105 games dating back to the 2006 Philippine Cup.

Meanwhile in the second game Magnolia extended their winning streak to three and handed Ginebra its fifth straight loss via a 95-92 squeaker.

In an out of town game over in Laoag Saturday night Red Bull downed Alaska Aces in overtime, 100-97

First Game:

Welcoat 110 -- Gainous 25, De Vance 16, Santee 15, Wainwright 15, Isip 10, Arana 9, Salangsang 7, Reyes 6, Ibanes 5, Tangkay 2, Dulay 0, Baguion 0, Sta. Maria 0.

Purefoods 103 -- Rice 28, Yap R. 22, Simon 15, Raymundo 15, Villanueva 8, Yap J. 7, Lanete 4, Salvador 2, Yee 2, Evangelista 0.

Quarterscores: 25-30, 52-51, 74-73, 110-103.

Second Game

Magnolia 95 – Watkins 20, Seigle 15, Tugade 12, Cortez 10, Hontiveros 10, Racela 9, Ildefonso 9, Pingris 5, Pena 3, Villanueva 2, Tolomia 0, Calaguio 0.

Ginebra 92 – Brown 18, Helterbrand 18, Caguioa 16, Valenzuela 10, Tubid 9, Mamaril 9, Artadi 6, Crisano 6, Salvacion 0. Pablo 0.

Quarters: 42-47, 68-70, 95-92.

Laoag Game

Red Bull 100 – Baguio 24, Parada, 19, Cruz 19, Hrabak 9, Sharma 8, Alvarez 7, Najorda 6, Robinson 4, Adriano 2, Ybanez 2, Pennisi 0.

Alaska 97 – Holcomb 29, Miller 14, Cariaso 14, Thoss 11, Tenorio 9, Dela Cruz 4, Ferriols 4, Laure 4, Hugnatan 2, Fonacier 0, Cabatu 0, Quinahan 0. Quarters: 22-16; 39-30; 53-55; 82-all, 100-97.

SEIGLE CONTINUES TO CONQUER PAIN

2008-04-15T00:22:00.000-07:00

SEIGLE CONTINUES TO CONQUER PAIN

Player of the Week April 7 – 13

Tuesday, 15 April 2008

A DANNY Seigle that is not even in full fighting shape is still a cut above the rest.

This the Magnolia forward proved by playing through pain, to be adjudged as the Accel-Smart PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period April 7-13.

Notwithstanding a recurring foot injury, Seigle has been consistently racking up the numbers, propping the Beverage Masters to back-to-back wins in the week that was in the Fiesta Conference and to an even 2-2 win-loss record overall.

As is his wont, Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen would not single out one player for his team’s revival from a sorry start. But he could not help but beam with pleasure at his prized 6-foot-6 forward’s continuing evolvement.

“We keep telling him not to force it, let the flow of the game come to him and be more patient,” said Tanquingcen. “He’s been trying to do that and we are all seeing his transformation into a more well-rounded player.”

Seemingly taking those pointers to heart, the 1999 Rookie of the Year gives up the ball more often, does not force his shots and has more decent percentages than what he’s had in the past.

Proofs are the numbers Seigle put up in the Beverage Masters’ wins over defending champion Alaska and Talk N Text, among the teams expected to go deep in the conference.

In an 89-81 breakthrough triumph over the Aces last Friday, Seigle had 18 points, 14 in the second half. He shot 6-of-11 from the floor, added six rebounds and spiked it up with three assists and a steal. He followed that up with a team-high 18 points on 8-of-14 field shooting, 10 rebounds, two assists and as many steals in a 91-86 victory over the Phone Pals last Sunday.

Those points are enough to keep Seigle in the company of Barangay Ginebra’s Mark Caguioa as the only locals to lead their respective teams in scoring in the
import-flavored tournament.

To think he was not even supposed to see extended minutes on the floor, bothered as he is by a nagging Achilles tendon injury that, as so often in the past, needed minor surgery after the Philippine Cup.

Which leads one with a boggled mind just trying to imagine what Seigle can do once he’s completely healed. (NCo)

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/2065/1/

AIR21 HANDS COKE FIRST DEFEAT; MAGNOLIA BEATS PHONEPALS

2008-04-14T00:45:00.000-07:00

AIR21 HANDS COKE FIRST DEFEAT; MAGNOLIA BEATS PHONEPALS

dennis PRINCIPE
Sunday, 13 April 2008
THE Air21 Express relied on their vaunted defense in beating Coca-Cola Tigers, 102-95 in Sunday night’s Smart-PBA Fiesta Conference elimination round schedule at the Araneta Coliseum. Heads-up plays by local players Wynne Arboleda and Arwind Santos along with few but crucial plays from veteran Homer Se in the closing minutes gave the win for the Express who are mourning with the demise of the father of Air21 president and team manager Lito Alvarez. Alvarez’ father Aquilino died last Friday at age 84. Second import George Gervin, Jr. nearly had a decent debut for Coke but committed critical errors that led to Tigers’ downfall. After connecting a three-pointer with nearly three minutes remaining in the game and draw near the Express, 93-87, Gervin fumbled a pass to fellow American reinforcement Jason Dixon. That error gave the Express an already uncontested fast break but Gervin committed another blunder as he fouled an already airborne Santos who scored a basket. Though Santos missed the bonus shot, the situation gave Air21 the momentum they needed to seal the victory. Santos finished with 21 points, 10 in the final period while Arboleda added 17 points, 11 in the fourth period. Se also had 17 points and one undergoal stab in the dying minutes of the game. Gervin topscored for the Tigers with 26 points aside from issuing six assists but his lean frame may well be the chink in his armor, a factor that could make Tigers coach Binky Favis consider other available reinforcements. Dixon could only contribute 16 points, way below his conference average of 30.7 points. The only positive note on Coke’s game was the 1,000 career offensive rebounds achieved by Mark Telan. Air21 zoomed to a 24-9 lead late in the first quarter on a left-handed lay-up by rookie Doug Kramer. But Gervin, who planed in last week but had to sit out one game, led an 8-1 rally where he scored four points in ending the first quarter cutting the Express lead, 25-17. Gervin sat out the Tigers 98-96 win over Welcoat as he was said to be coming off a 20-hour trip. Like what happened in the first 12 minutes of action Air21 had a good start in the second quarter as they established a 38-27 lead under eight minutes to play. Gervin had another decent quarter as he poured in six points an issued three assists to again come in close for most part of the quarter capped by a buzzer beating three point shot from the right quarter court by rookie Ronjay Buenafe to end the second canto, 48-41. The Express snapped their back-to-back losses with the win and now have a 2-2 win-loss slate. After starting the conference with a 105-96 win over the Welcoat Dragons, Air21 dropped a 102-92 game against Red Bull last April 4 and a 102-94 loss to Purefoods last Wednesday. Air21 continues to rely on their defense as their most potent weapon as they have scored their last two wins in limiting their opponent to no more than 100 points. Last conference the Express where 5-1 in checking their foes below the century mark. Meanwhile in the second game Magnolia notched their second straight win by defeating Talk 'N Text Phonepals, 91-86. The Scores Air 21 102 -- Thomas 25, Santos 21, Se 17, Arboleda 17, De Ocampo 10, Canaleta 8, Kramer 2, Cruz 2, Sotto 0. Coke 95 -- Gervin 26, Dixon 16, Buenafe 11, Macapagal 10, Taulava 9, Belasco 8, Catli 6, Cabagnot 6, Telan 3. Quarterscores: 25-17, 48-41, 67-65, 102-95. Second Game Magnolia 91 -- Seigle 18, Hontiveros 17, Watkins 14, Villanueva 11, Pingris 10, Cortez 7, Ildefonso 7, Racela 4, Pena 3, Tugade 0. Talk N' Text 86 -- McGhee 22, Allado 15, Washington 13, Cardona 10, Alapag 8, Ritualo 8, De Ocampo 5, Ferreria 2, Peek 2, Carey 1, Chia 0, Belano 0. Quarterscores: 24-24, 49-41, 71-63, 91-86. Source: http://www.sportsnews.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=676&Itemid=1

RICE LIFTS PUREFOODS PAST MAGNOLIA AFTER 2 OTs

2008-04-02T19:22:00.000-07:00

RICE LIFTS PUREFOODS PAST MAGNOLIA AFTER 2 OTs

Giants’ import hits winning basket, erupts for 56 big points

Wednesday, 02 April 2008

NOT even the collective effort of Magnolia proved enough to negate the individual explosiveness of Purefoods import Darius Rice.

The nephew of football legend Jerry Rice knocked in 56 big points in his Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) debut, including a coast-to-coast drive to the basket that lifted the Giants to a pulsating 127-126 double OT victory over the Beverage Masters in a thrilling 2008 Smart Fiesta Conference game Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

The 6-foot-10 former University of Miami stalwart went 6-of-17 from three-point range, the last of which was a step-back trey in the final 1:40 of regulation play that tied the game at 101 and set the stage for the exciting finish.

The 56-point output of the 25-year-old Rice is the biggest individual score registered in a game in the league since former Best Import Derek Brown finished with 57 points for Sta. Lucia in a 99-120 losing cause to San Miguel Beer on April 25, 2004 in the inaugural Fiesta Conference.

“Darius Rice is as good as advertised,” were the first words uttered by a beaming Ryan Gregorio, the Purefoods coach, after the game that took 58 minutes to complete. “I’ve seen some amazing shots tonight, including a three-pointer that I think was a low percentage shot, but thank God, it went in.”

Rice already showed portent of things to come when he finished with 27 points at the half, though the Giants trailed, 45-54.

“That’s all?,” asked the sensational import when asked if he was aware of his final output, the second all-time highest output in the Fiesta Conference since Brown's 57 and the highest output by a debuting import since Jerod Ward had 61 for Mobiline in a 93-87 win over Barangay Ginebra in his first game in the 2001 Commissioner's Cup.

“Honestly, I was not thinking about my score. I’m just playing in there and trying to help the team win,” added the second cousin of former NBA hotshot Glenn Rice.

Following the win, Purefoods finds itself in a four-way tie on top with Coca-Cola, Red Bull, Air21 and reigning all-Filipino champion Sta. Lucia.

James Yap added 20 points for the Giants, Enrico Villanueva added 16 and 11 rebounds in his first game with his new team while Kerby Raymundo had 11 markers, but missed a potential game-winning reverse layup with four seconds left in the first overtime and the score tied at 116-116.

The loss was a bitter pill to swallow for the Beverage Masters, who led by as many as 14, 65-51, early in the third.

What cost Magnolia the game, especially late in the overtime periods, were several turnovers, two of which Dondon Hontiveros committed in succession.

But the most damaging of them came in the final six seconds of the second extra period when Mike Cortez, acquired by Magnolia in a blockbuster trade with Alaska, threw a weak pass which Rice anticipated. The Purefoods import then went all the way to the basket to peg the final count.

Hontiveros led the Beverage Masters with 29 points while import Jameel Watkins
contributed 23 points and 18 rebounds before fouling out with 1:22 in the second overtime. His putback off a Cortez miss in regulation sent the game into its first extension, 108-108.

Danny Seigle, unmindful of the Achilles injury he sustained in the conference break, added 19 and four other players were in double figures for Magnolia, including Danny Ildefonso (10), who missed a potential game-tying basket at the buzzer that could have forged a third overtime. (GR)

BUZZER-BEATER: Rice's 56 was also the first 50-point output in the league since Asi Taulava had a career-high 51 in a 131-105 win over Purefoods on May 16, 2004 also during the inaugural Fiesta Conference... No player has scored at least 60 points in a game since Askia Jones had that exact output for Shell on Nov. 4, 2001 in a 111-88 rout of Sta. Lucia in the Governors Cup. (FM)

The scores:

Purefoods 127 – Rice 56, J Yap 20, Villanueva 16, Raymundo 11, Simon 10, Lanete 6, R. Yap 5, Salvador 2, Yee 1.

Magnolia 126 – Hontiveros 29, Watkins 23, Seigle 19, Tugade 13, Pingris 12, Cortez 11, Ildefonso 10, Calaguio 5, Racela 2, Pena 2, Tolomia 0.

Quarterscores: 24-27; 45-54; 75-82; 108-108 (reg); 116-116 (1st OT); 127-126.

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/2046/1/

New players plug Magnolia's holes

2008-04-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

New players plug Magnolia's holes

by Roy Luarca
Source: INQUIRER.net | April 2, 2008

A fearless rebounder, a burly shooter, a flashy playmaker and a reliable reliever.

The Magnolia Beverage Masters have all bases covered with their prime acquisitions - Marc Pingris, Kenneth Bono, Mike Cortez and Chester Tolomia - for the PBA Fiesta Cup.

Pingris, a 6-foot-5 high leaper and shot blocker and Kenneth Bono, a 6-5 post-up player with a mean jumper, are expected to further shore up Magnolia's interior defense and make the Beverage Masters a power off the boards.

Projected to become the team's top point guard is the 6-foot Cortez, a sneaky passer, while the 6-3 Tolomia is a slasher and pesky defender off the bench.

No wonder, Magnolia's go-to-guy Danny Seigle couldn't be happier.

"These guys are really welcome additions to the team," said Seigle. "And just like before, I like what I am seeing. Everyone in the team is talented, and all we need is time to play together and combine our individual strengths."

Cortez will eventually succeed veteran Olsen Racela in orchestrating the plays for the Beverage Masters, who carry the flag of San Miguel Beverages Inc (SMBI) brands like Magnolia Healthtea and Fruit Drinks.

"I'm excited to make this team and I know for sure that it's going to be different," said Cortez. "From the start, I already feel that I'm a part of the family."

Cortez, however, believes that he has to learn a lot more from Racela and Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen on how the team runs as the Fiesta Conference progresses.

Pingris and Bono are proven players who will ease the pressure off regular big men Dorian Pena, Danny Ildefonso and Samigue Eman right away.

"I can help the team in defense and rebounding," said Pingris in Filipino. "This will be a new adjustment for me, but its okay as long as I could be of helm to the team. "

Aside from throwing his over 250-pound weight around the paint, Bono feels he could also help the Beverage Masters offensively with his smooth touch from the outside.

Source: http://www.ngetstudio.com/news/?id=4093

ADDUCUL’S ILLNESS LEADS TO BIG 4-TEAM DEAL

2008-03-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

ADDUCUL’S ILLNESS LEADS TO BIG 4-TEAM DEAL

Villanueva to Purefoods, Pingris to Magnolia

Thursday, 27 March 2008

Romel Adducul is taking a leave of absence in the PBA to fight the biggest battle of his life.

Adducul will be out of at least the coming PBA Fiesta Cup as he’s diagnosed to be afflicted with nasopharyngeal cancer, prompting his ball club, the Purefoods TJ Giants, to work on a major trade.

In what could be one of the biggest single-day trades in PBA history, Purefoods acquired Enrico Villanueva while Magnolia got Marc Pingris with Coca-Cola acting as the third party in a complicated transaction involving three other players and a future draft pick.

Magnolia first released Villanueva and Willie Wilson to Coca-Cola in exchange for Chester Tolomia. Then Coke shipped Villanueva to Purefoods for Pingris who was then sent to Magnolia in exchange for a future draft pick.

Ginebra joined the deal by releasing Mark Macapagal to Coca-Cola for Wilson.

"Romel’s ouster was a major factor in our decision to work on the trade. Without Romel and also Omanzie Rodriguez who underwent an ACL surgery, we no longer have a legitimate center," said Purefoods governor Rene Pardo.

Pardo said it was one of the toughest decisions he’s made as Purefoods top official.

"It’s not easy letting go of a player like Marc," said Pardo of the hardworking forward.

"We had to look at the landscape of the team right now If you will have to make an emotional decision, I definitely will not trade Ping (Pingris). It hurts because of our relationship," said coach Ryan Gregorio.

"But on the intellectual side of the matter, I think we got a legitimate middle-man. We just lost a solid center in Rommel. I felt it was an important decision. We have to move on," Gregorio added.

Purefoods and Magnolia needed a conduit to effect the trade since sister ball clubs in the league are restricted from trading players directly.

The Giants, however, are still reserving a slot for Adducul, hoping the 6-foot-5 behemoth can recover from his ailment.

"The good thing is that he’s young and athletic, he’s responding well to his treatment," said Pardo.

Pardo said symptoms of Adducul’s cancer have manifested way back during the semifinals of the All-Filipino tourney.

"He was ignoring it because he wanted to help our cause. When he was finally diagnosed to have cancer, at first he didn’t want it to be known by the public. He decided to let it be known after the announcement of President Cory Aquino’s ailment," said Pardo.

Adducul is now undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Nasopharyngeal cancer develops in an area in the back of the nose towards the base of the skull. Although it is one form of oral cancer, the nasopharyngeal type is in a way different since it spreads widely and has different risk factors from most oral cancers. (NC)

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/2035/1/

TESTED VET FOR MAGNOLIA, BIG-TIME SCORER FOR PUREFOODS

2008-03-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

TESTED VET FOR MAGNOLIA, BIG-TIME SCORER FOR PUREFOODS

6-11 Watkins and 6-10 Rice latest signees for Fiesta Conference

Saturday, 15 March 2008

Veteran PBA import Jameel Watkins and former top NBA prospect Darius Lashaun Rice signed up with Magnolia and Purefoods, respectively, Saturday, two weeks before the Smart Fiesta Cup reels off with a road game in Panabo, Davao del Norte.

Magnolia beat Red Bull in their tug-o-war for the services of Watkins while Purefoods was able to convince Rice to play for the team after his stint in the Puerto Rican league.

“We’d been in contact with Watkins’ agent since February. Hindi lang pumirma agad dahil buntis yung asawa. Finally, he agreed to play for us when his wife gave birth Friday,” said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen.

Tanquingcen is hopeful the former Shell import provides them help in departments where they fared badly last conference.

“Ang hina ng depensa namin noong All-Filipino. Doon ko inaasahan trumabaho ng husto si Watkins,” said Tanquingcen of Watkins – good for 27.3 points, 51.2 percent shooting, 18.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 2.8 blocks a game for Shell in 2005.

Red Bull was also interested on the services of Watkins. Beaten to the draw by the Beverage Masters, the Barakos were left as the only team still in search of an import with the tourney already about to start.

Others imports already signed are Bobby Burries and Jason Dixon of Coca-Cola, Cory Santee and Jason Keep of Welcoat, Rahshon Turner of Ginebra, Wesley Wilson of Sta. Lucia, Randy Holcomb of Alaska, Aaron McGhee of Talk n Text and Steve Thomas of Air21.

The 6-foot-11 Watkins is fresh from the Chinese league where he teamed up with former Ginebra import Chris Porter on the Fujian team. He has also played in Korea the last three years, winning one championship with the Dongbu ball club.

The 6-foot-10 Rice, 25, was a highly scouted NBA prospect while playing with the Miami Hurricanes from 2000 to 2004.

He made the All-Big East Second Team and First Team All-District 6 by the NABC in his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons and finished his collegiate career as the fourth all-time leading scorer in school history with 1,865 points. He was the only player in school history to lead the team in scoring in four consecutive seasons.

He also ranked first in games started (113), 10th in games played (116), third in minutes (3,727), sixth in field goals (631), second in three-point field goals (260), and fifth in 20-point games (35).

A nephew of NFL receiver Jerry Rice, Darius led the Dakota Wizards to the NBDL championship in the 2006-07 season, firing 52 points in the final game. (NC)

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/2023/1/

POWERHOUSE FALLS Red Bull boots out Magnolia

2008-01-25T20:51:00.000-08:00

POWERHOUSE FALLS
Red Bull boots out Magnolia

Alaska also forges sweep; boots out Coca-Cola

By Musong R. Castillo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:14:00 01/25/2008

POWERHOUSE FALLS
Red Bull boots out Magnolia

Alaska also forges sweep; boots out Coca-Cola

By Musong R. Castillo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:14:00 01/25/2008

MANILA, Philippines--(UPDATE) Leave it to Yeng Guiao to provide the perfect post-game speech for his Red Bull team.

"It's not about the big names and big salaries, but the big heart," Guiao said last night, minutes after steering his over-achieving Barako to the Smart PBA Philippine Cup's Final Four with a 112-94 victory that swept powerhouse Magnolia out of the playoffs at the Cuneta Astrodome.

"Barya-barya lang kami dito (we're just loose change in this field)," the mercurial mentor added. "I have to take pride in this team for getting into the semis. We've never been seriously looked at on paper."

Alaska, meanwhile, also completed a sweep of its series against a tired Coca-Cola crew after a 110-100 victory in the second game.

The Aces were led by reigning MVP Willie Miller, who took over the game in the third period with 14 of his 28 points as Alaska advanced to face the second-seeded Sta. Lucia Realtors also in a best-of-seven series.

"I'm just shocked that we are going to play (the semifinals) on Sunday," Alaska's Tim Cone said.

Red Bull held the high-powered Magnolia offensive machine scoreless for the first seven minutes of the second quarter to overhaul a 23-27 deficit and scoot to commanding leads which the Barako protected to the end.

Their 2-0 victory over the Beverage Masters put the Barako in a best-of-seven semifinal series with elimination round topnotcher Purefoods, and Magnolia will always remember this Red Bull team that it was not able to beat in four meetings here.

"The feeling (of making the semifinals) is that you are motivated even more," Guiao said. "We are trying to prove something by getting into the Finals and playing for another championship with a team without the superstars."

But Junthy Valenzuela, one of only two remnants of the original Red Bull team that entered the league in 2000, played like one, shooting 27 points, hauling down eight rebounds and issuing nine assists.

His 12 fourth quarter points came at the most crucial times, as he scored five straight in the middle of a 10-0 run that had the Barako zooming to a 101-80 lead heading into the final 3:06.

'Like playing our old team'
The series victory proved truly special for the Barako, who lost three legitimate stars to Magnolia in the last six months to one-sided trades.

"It looked like we were playing our old team," Guiao, the 15-year veteran tactician who made it to his sixth straight Final Four, said. "(That streak) is a feat in itself. I don't believe that there are so many teams without superstars that have been that consistent."

The scores:

First Game

RED BULL 112--Valenzuela 27, Najorda 15, Cruz 14, Adriano 11, Baguio 10, Pennisi 10, Sharma 9, Yba?ez 6, Andaya 3, Hrabak 3, Bugia 2, Robinson 2.
MAGNOLIA 94--Tugade 31, Tenorio 13, Seigle 13, Hontiveros 10, E. Villanueva 9, Ildefonso 7, J. Villanueva 6, Gonzales 5, Calaguio 0, Pe?a 0.

Quarters: 23-27, 55-40, 78-70, 112-94

Second Game

ALASKA 110--Miller 28, Hugnatan 21, Thoss 17, Cariaso 16, Ferriols 8, Cortez 8, Laure 6, Dela Cruz 6, Bono 0, Quinahan 0, Aban 0.

COCA-COLA 100--Taulava 20, Cabagnot 17, Telan 15, Buenafe 13, Arigo 9, Enrile 8, Calimag 7, Dimaunahan 7, Tolomia 4, Catli 0, Misolas 0.

Quarters: 21-20, 49-43, 78-70, 110-100

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/inquirersports/inquirersports/view/20080125-114841/Red-Bull-boots-out-Magnolia

RED BULL ASSERTS MASTERY OVER MAGNOLIA

2008-01-23T21:18:00.000-08:00

RED BULL ASSERTS MASTERY OVER MAGNOLIA

Baguio, Hrabak, Pennisi steer Barakos closer to Final 4

Wednesday, 23 January 2008

Minus one key player in Carlo Sharma, Red Bull still kept its mastery of Magnolia at the start of their 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinal showdown.

Cyrus Baguio scored a career-high 31 points while Mike Hrabak and Mick Pennisi nailed decisive three-pointers at endgame as the Barakos upended the Beverage Masters, 107-104, Wednesday to move in the threshold of the Final Four.

"We missed Carlo (Sharma) a lot because Magnolia is really big. But we didn’t give up and played with a bigger heart," said Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao.

"We still got their number. We’re now 3-0 against them in this tournament but it won’t matter if we don’t win this series," Guiao added. "Winning Game One gives you 60 percent of winning this series. It’s not yet over but our battlecry the next game is to finish it."

The Barakos take their first crack at closing the series in Game Two Friday in the same venue at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

Baguio ran a spectacular show, coming through with several highlight moves on the way to improving his previous career-high of 30 points.

The former UST Tiger went 11-of-13 from the field and 8-of-9 from the stripe while also coming through with six assists, five rebounds and one steal in a sterling 35 minutes of awesome action.

But the Barakos needed Hrabak’s and Pennisi’s treys to build a 104-98 cushion entering the final minute of the fiercely fought battle.

Hrabak finished with 21 points – his biggest output in the league in the last four years. Pennisi contributed 11 points and nine rebounds while playing extended minutes sans Sharma who served a one-game suspension for his fight with Jondan Salvador in the Purefoods-Red Bull setto closing out the double-round elims.

Junthy Valenzuela and Leo Najorda also put in double-figure outputs as the Barakos engaged the Beverage Masters in a virtual shootout.

It helped that Red Bull shot 50 percent from the field against Magnolia’s 44.4-percent clip.

Wesley Gonzales was perfect from the field (5-of-5) in the first half but failed to score again.

Danny Seigle and Lordy Tugade carried the bulk of the fight for Magnolia in the second half with the latter hitting back-to-back three-pointers that shoved the team within two at 104-106 with time down to 6.4 seconds.

Baguio gave Red Bull more breathing room with a free throw before Magnolia eventually saw its bid vanish in the air with Chris Calaguio missing a desperation three-pointer at the buzzer.

Seigle fired 25 points to pace the Beverage Masters, who also drew 10 points or more from Tugade, Dorian Pena, Danny Ildefonso, Gonzales and Enrico Villanueva. (NC)

The scores:

Red Bull 107 – Baguio 31, Hrabak 21, Valenzuela 18, Najorda 13, Pennisi 11, Adriano 5, Bugia 3, Robinson 3, Ybanez 1, Cruz 1.

Magnolia 104 – Seigle 25, Tugade 15, Pena 15, Ildefonso 13, Gonzales 10, Villanueva E. 10, Hontiveros 8, Villanueva J. 5, Tenorio 3, Wilson 0, Racela 0, Calaguio 0.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 45-47, 77-78, 107-104.

Source: http://www.pba.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1963&Itemid=1

Ex-Bulls to haunt old team?

2008-01-23T01:05:00.000-08:00

Ex-Bulls to haunt old team?

by Joaquin M. Henson, "Sporting Chance"
Source: The Philippine Star | January 23, 2008

In a twist of fate, three former Red Bull stalwarts get a chance to show up their old team as Magnolia takes on the Barakos in one of two PBA Philippine Cup best-of-3 quarterfinal pairings at the Cuneta Astrodome starting today.

The other matchup pits Alaska versus Coca-Cola with the survivor advancing to face Sta. Lucia Realty in the semis. The winner of the Magnolia-Red Bull tie moves on to play Purefoods in the other semis series.

Both quarterfinal series should be humdingers.

Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade and Larry Fonacier used to wear the Red Bull colors. Now, they're leading the charge for the Beverage Masters who enter the quarterfinals on a mild run. Magnolia has won three of its last four. What's clearly bothering coach Siot Tanquingcen is Magnolia hasn't beaten Red Bull in two meetings so far this conference.

Red Bull's twin wins were convincing, 107-95 and 94-88. But newly reactivated Dorian Peña didn't play in both games. His return is a big boost to Magnolia's chances because he gives Tanquingcen the luxury of playing Villanueva or Ildefonso at power forward with Samigue Eman as backup at five. Depending on how Tanquingcen rotates his players, Danny Seigle will play three and Tugade or Dondon Hontiveros two with L. A.Tenorio or Olsen Racela at point guard in what should be a formidable combination.

Peña's comeback provides San Miguel with instant depth which, by the way, is Red Bull's strength. Down the line, Tanquingcen still has Fonacier, Wesley Gonzales, Willie Wilson, Chris Calaguio and rookie Jonas Villanueva to tap. No wonder Gabby Espinas became expendable.

There's no question Magnolia has the firepower to contend with any team in the league. The Beverage Masters rank No. 2 in offense with nearly 100 points a game. But it's team defense where Magnolia needs some brushing up. In their 10 wins so far, the Beverage Masters gave up an average of 94.9 points but in their eight losses, they surrendered 100.9.

Red Bull is No. 2 in fastbreak points. If Magnolia hopes to make it to the semis, the Beverage Masters need to work hard on transition defense and prevent the Barakos from streaking for easy layups.

* * *

Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao must like his chances against Magnolia. Not only because they swept the Beverage Masters in the elims but also because the Barakos did it without much help from Cyrus Baguio. In the first game, Baguio shot only nine points and in the second, he didn't even suit up. With Baguio in harness, expect Red Bull to kick up a storm.

Guiao's problem is the lack of a legitimate center. Mick Pennisi prefers to play outside where he can fire triples and only covers the post out of necessity. Carlo Sharma will sit out Game 1 because of his suspension for scuffling with Jondan Salvador and his services will be sorely missed. Mark Andaya will be pressed for duty at center but won't be a match for Peña or Eman.

If Red Bull controls the pace and runs wild, Magnolia will be easy pickings. The key is for the Barakos to generate production from the backcourt -- Baguio, Junthy Valenzuela, Leo Najorda, Celino Cruz, Topex Robinson, Warren Ybanez and Jojo Duncil. Magnolia, in turn, must contain the Red Bull guards and bring the war to the frontcourt where the Beverage Masters enjoy the advantage over the likes of Mike Hrabak and Paolo Bugia.

Valenzuela will likely be assigned to Seigle and that will surely take away from his offense. Rich Alvarez, recovering from injury, would've been the first choice to defend Dynamite Danny.

Source: http://ngetstudio.com/news/?id=3572

Still Alive

2008-01-12T20:05:00.000-08:00

Still alive

Cebu Daily News
First Posted 09:40am (Mla time) 01/12/2008

Danny Seigle helped the Magnolia remain in contention for an outright quarterfinals berth as the Beverage Masters posted a 96-84 win over the hapless Welcoat Dragons in the PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Seigle went 10-of-20 from the field and finished with a conference-high 32 points as the Beverage Masters finished the elimination round with a 10-8 (win-loss) card.

Magnolia, however, is still in danger of being relegated to the wildcard phase if the Talk N Text Phone Pals sweep their last two games.

Magnolia could secure a playoff for a quarterfinal berth if Talk N Text loses one of those two games.

If the Pals drop their last two games, the Beverage Masters will automatically advance to the quarterfinals and the former going to the dangerous wildcard round.

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/cdnsports/cdnsports/view_article.php?article_id=111920

http://images.inquirer.net/media/sports/images/pic-01120355430281.jpg

No simple pleasures for Welcoat

2008-01-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

No simple pleasures for Welcoat

MAGNOLIA would not even allow Welcoat some simple pleasures.

The Beverage Masters shattered the Dragons’ hopes of exiting with a smile, winning to the tune of 96-84 last night to earn at least a playoff slot for a quarterfinals berth in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Danny Seigle got away with 32 points on 10-of-20 shooting from the field and 11-of-13 from the free throw line, and Dorian Pena had 14 points and 20 rebounds for Magnolia, which improved to 10-8 and hoping the results of other teams fighting for quarterfinals slots favor them.

"The good part about the win is we got the chance somehow sa quarterfinals," said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen. "More than the win, the mental part is the most important."

Welcoat, which had long been eliminated, went into the game with nothing else to lose, played to throw the quarterfinals race into a mess, and showed up with the aim of salvaging some pride.

Instead, the Dragons found their losing streak stretched to a franchise-worst 11 as they formally bowed with a 3-15 win-loss card.

No team has lost so many games in a row since Purefoods lost 12 straight in the 2003 season. The league worst was when Countryfair lost 13 straight in the 1984 All-Filipino, tying Great Taste’s dubious record, which was first set in the 1982 Reinforced Conference.

Joe De Vance, the No. 1 overall draft pick in the August Draft, had 18 points and Nic Belasco also 18 points and pulled down 14 rebounds for the Dragons.

Everyone was aware it was Welcoat’s last appearance for the conference, and just like in its past stints, it was a moment of grief.

Ironically, it was against Magnolia that Welcoat last tasted a victory, a 95-93 decision last Nov. 16, as the Dragons registered their first back-to-back wins since joining the league last season.

This time, the sheer power and depth of Magnolia came into full gear while Welcoat’s collective mind-set was simply not in the game.

Except for the first period where they managed to engage the Beverage Masters into a 19-19 count, there was nothing really the Dragons could do to repel Magnolia’s firepower.

The scores:

Magnolia 96 – Seigle 32, Hontiveros 15, Pena 14, Villanueva 12, Wilson 7, Tenorio 4, Villanueva J. 3, Calaguio 3, Eman 2, Tugade 2, Racela 0.

Welcoat 84 – De Vance 18, Belasco 18, Arana 16, Mente 12, Dulay 8, Wainwright 8, Reyes 2, Gelig 2, Sta. Maria 0, Tangkay 0.

Quarterscores: 27-19; 51-34; 77-62; 96-84.

Source:

http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan12/spor5.htm

http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1944/59/

Fired-up Sta. Lucia melts Magnolia, 99-77

2008-01-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Fired-up Sta. Lucia melts Magnolia, 99-77

01/07/2008 | 12:56 AM

The Sta. Lucia Realtors stretched their searing run to a franchise-record seven games and assured themselves of a playoff crack at the second outright semifinals seat after a masterful 99-77 demolition of the Magnolia Beverage Masters in the second Sunday game of the 2007-2008 Smart PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Versatile guard-forward Kelly Williams completed a remarkable double-double with 21 points and a career-high 18 rebounds while 1996 Rookie of the Year Marlou Aquino churned out 19 points, seven rebounds and a conference-high tying five blocks.

Outstanding rookie Ryan Reyes sustained a hit on the jaw that forced him to sit out the last 11 minutes of the game but the entire Sta. Lucia team took up the cudgels for their fallen comrade and showed no mercy on the badly stunned Magnolia Beverage Masters.

Before taking the exit, Reyes had gone six-of-seven from beyond the arc and finished with 19 points, six rebounds and four assists.

"The team sympathized with Ryan Reyes. The boys delivered a statement on his exit," Sta. Lucia coach Boyet Fernandez said after the game.

Aquino and Williams struck hardest upon Reyes’ ouster, which fueled a mighty closing run that shattered the Beverage Masters’ bid to bits.

"He’s playing well. He’s one of the future stars of the league. I hope Ryan is OK," said Fernandez.

Taking Reyes’ exit as a rallying point, the Realtors worked even harder, outscoring the Beverage Masters in the final canto, 32-21.

Sta. Lucia was ahead by only 11 at 67-56 when Reyes had to call it a night.

Williams took a steal and slammed home right at the resumption of play. Aquino later joined the fray, firing 13 points in the quarter, including a rare trey.

When the demolition job was over, the Realtors found themselves assured of at least a playoff crack for second place at the close of the double-round eliminations.

Sta. Lucia goes for an outright semis entry in its final assignment against Air21.

Magnolia moved out of the race for the outright semis seats after suffering an eighth loss against nine wins. The Beverage Masters will now just try to salvage automatic entry into the quarters.

"We’ve achieved our original goal, which was just the Magic Five. If ever we make it to the semis outright, it’s just the icing on the cake," said Fernandez.

Winning 11 games so far in the eliminations is also a franchise record for Sta. Lucia. The Realtors nailed it while limiting the Beverage Masters to their lowest output in a game this season.

Reyes rifled in five triples while Williams had eight points and the same number of rebounds as the Realtors established control early and took a 48-36 bubble at the turn.

Williams scored on a two-handed follow-up jam following a miss by Dennis Espino, highlighting a 6-0 closing run that gave Sta. Lucia a 30-14 lead after the first period.

The scores:

Sta. Lucia (99) – Williams 21, Reyes 19, Aquino 19, Omolon 13, Espino 10, Miranda 8, Yeo 3, Butel 2, Gonzales 2, Mendoza 2, Mamaclay 0, Coronel 0.

Magnolia (77) – Peña 17, Seigle 15, Tugade 10, Tenorio 9, Gonzales 9, Hontiveros 6, Wilson 4, Villanueva 4, Racela 2, Villanueva J. 1, Calaguio 0.

Quarterscores: 30-14, 48-36, 67-56, 99-77.

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/75501/Fired-up-Sta-Lucia-melts-Magnolia-99-77

MAGNOLIA OUTSHOOTS AIR21, KEEPS ALIVE OUTRIGHT SEMIS BID

2008-01-02T02:15:00.000-08:00

MAGNOLIA OUTSHOOTS AIR21, KEEPS ALIVE OUTRIGHT SEMIS BID
Six Beverage Masters score at least 10 led by ‘Dynamite’s’ 25
Saturday, 29 December 2007
The Magnolia Beverage Masters kept alive their hopes for an outright semifinal berth by beating Air21 123-110 in the league’s final game for the year 2007.Last year’s runner-up in this very same conference last season, Magnolia settled the outcome of the game via an 11-2 run near the end of the third period to notch a second straight win and improve to 9-7, good for a share of fourth place in the team standings of the 2007-08 Smart Philippine Cup.
“At least our fate is still in our hands,” said Magnolia head coach Siot Tanquingcen of their bid for one of the two outright semifinal berths which will go to the two teams which will finish 1-2 at the end of the double round-robin eliminations.
With no more than one and a half games separating five of the six teams still in contention for the two outright semis berths, the win enabled the Beverage Masters to be within striking distance of the frontrunners going into the league’s one-week Christmas-New Year break.
Positioning for the two outright semifinal and three outright quarterfinal berths in the playoffs going into the last six playdates of the eliminations resume on Friday, January 4 at the Cuneta Astrodome with Talk 'N Text facing Alaska and defending champion Barangay Ginebra taking on Red Bull.
The loss, which was Air21’s fifth in its last six games, dropped the Express to a 6-10 slate, jeopardizing its bid for an outright quarterfinal slot.
Wesley Gonzales had four points against his former team and former Ateneo teammate Rico Villanueva also had four in that pivotal 11-2 third quarter Magnolia run which doused cold water on an Air21 rally that cut the deficit to just 74-76 after the Express had trailed by as much as 20 points early in the period.
Six Beverage Masters finished in double figures in scoring led by the 25 of Danny Seigle, who had 20 of his output in the first half, in the game where Magnolia came up with its highest output in a game this conference, eclipsing its previous high which came curiously also against Air21 in a 121-112 victory on season-opening day last October 14.
The Express, who seem to be headed for the knockout wildcard stage of the playoffs following the loss, were led by the 21 points and career-high-tying 16 rebounds of sophomore Arwind Santos, who also had two assists, two shotblocks and one steal. It was actually Santos’ 13th double-double in the conference, the most among all players.
Magnolia, which shot 52.9% from the field and had a 28-19 edge in fastbreak points, actually started the game on a slow note, trailing Air21 by as much as 29-20 late in the first period.
But a 12-2 run at the start of the second period, anchored on Lordy Tugade and LA Tenorio, got the Beverage Masters back into the thick of things, quickly turning a 25-30 deficit after the first 12 minutes of play into a 37-32 lead.
A Seigle-led 10-2 run by Magnolia to close the first half gave the Beverage Masters a 64-46 lead at the intermission.
Air21, which had four other players scoring in double figures led by the 18 of Ranidel de Ocampo and a career-high 15 of rookie Doug Kramer, lost despite a 62-53 edge in rebounding, 30-13 offensively.
The Express shot only 37.1% from the field. (FM)
The scores:
Magnolia 123 – Seigle 25, Villanueva R., 19, Tugade 18, Pena 11, Gonzales 10, Wilson 10, Hontiveros 10, Fonacier 7, Racela 7, Tenorio 6, Villanueva J. 0.
Air21 110 -- Santos 21, de Ocampo 18, Canaleta 17, Kramer 15, Espinas 14, Se 9, Intal 5, Arboleda 5, Cruz 4, Sotto 2, Magsumbol 0, Chia 0.Quarterscores: 25-30, 64-46, 89-78, 123-110.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters kept alive their hopes for an outright semifinal berth by beating Air21 123-110 in the league’s final game for the year 2007.Last year’s runner-up in this very same conference last season, Magnolia settled the outcome of the game via an 11-2 run near the end of the third period to notch a second straight win and improve to 9-7, good for a share of fourth place in the team standings of the 2007-08 Smart Philippine Cup.
“At least our fate is still in our hands,” said Magnolia head coach Siot Tanquingcen of their bid for one of the two outright semifinal berths which will go to the two teams which will finish 1-2 at the end of the double round-robin eliminations.
With no more than one and a half games separating five of the six teams still in contention for the two outright semis berths, the win enabled the Beverage Masters to be within striking distance of the frontrunners going into the league’s one-week Christmas-New Year break.
Positioning for the two outright semifinal and three outright quarterfinal berths in the playoffs going into the last six playdates of the eliminations resume on Friday, January 4 at the Cuneta Astrodome with Talk 'N Text facing Alaska and defending champion Barangay Ginebra taking on Red Bull.
The loss, which was Air21’s fifth in its last six games, dropped the Express to a 6-10 slate, jeopardizing its bid for an outright quarterfinal slot.
Wesley Gonzales had four points against his former team and former Ateneo teammate Rico Villanueva also had four in that pivotal 11-2 third quarter Magnolia run which doused cold water on an Air21 rally that cut the deficit to just 74-76 after the Express had trailed by as much as 20 points early in the period.
Six Beverage Masters finished in double figures in scoring led by the 25 of Danny Seigle, who had 20 of his output in the first half, in the game where Magnolia came up with its highest output in a game this conference, eclipsing its previous high which came curiously also against Air21 in a 121-112 victory on season-opening day last October 14.
The Express, who seem to be headed for the knockout wildcard stage of the playoffs following the loss, were led by the 21 points and career-high-tying 16 rebounds of sophomore Arwind Santos, who also had two assists, two shotblocks and one steal. It was actually Santos’ 13th double-double in the conference, the most among all players.
Magnolia, which shot 52.9% from the field and had a 28-19 edge in fastbreak points, actually started the game on a slow note, trailing Air21 by as much as 29-20 late in the first period.
But a 12-2 run at the start of the second period, anchored on Lordy Tugade and LA Tenorio, got the Beverage Masters back into the thick of things, quickly turning a 25-30 deficit after the first 12 minutes of play into a 37-32 lead.
A Seigle-led 10-2 run by Magnolia to close the first half gave the Beverage Masters a 64-46 lead at the intermission.
Air21, which had four other players scoring in double figures led by the 18 of Ranidel de Ocampo and a career-high 15 of rookie Doug Kramer, lost despite a 62-53 edge in rebounding, 30-13 offensively.
The Express shot only 37.1% from the field. (FM)
The scores:
Magnolia 123 – Seigle 25, Villanueva R., 19, Tugade 18, Pena 11, Gonzales 10, Wilson 10, Hontiveros 10, Fonacier 7, Racela 7, Tenorio 6, Villanueva J. 0.
Air21 110 -- Santos 21, de Ocampo 18, Canaleta 17, Kramer 15, Espinas 14, Se 9, Intal 5, Arboleda 5, Cruz 4, Sotto 2, Magsumbol 0, Chia 0.
Quarterscores: 25-30, 64-46, 89-78, 123-110.

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1931/59/

MAGNOLIA STOPS SKID, OUTPACES ALASKA IN CDO

2007-12-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

MAGNOLIA STOPS SKID, OUTPACES ALASKA IN CDO
Tugade paces Beverage Masters with 27
Sunday, 23 December 2007

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY. – Magnolia’s Beverage Masters showed they can handle Alaska Milk anywhere, anytime.
The Beverage Masters struck hard in the third then negated everything the Aces could offer in the fourth period, to score a 104-92 win in a Smart PBA Philippine Cup game at Xavier University Gym Saturday night.

Danny Seigle, Lordy Tugade, Enrico Villanueva and Dondon Hontiveros alternated on the offensive end while the rest of the entire crew complemented with a tough defensive stance all game long as they repeated over the Aces, whom they also defeated the first time they met this conference, 112-108, Ynares Center in Antipolo City last October 24.

“The key to this win is our tough defense and aggressiveness all game long,” was all Magnolia coach Siot Tangquincen could utter, as he and the entire team were swarmed heavily by big crowd that followed the team to the dugout after the game.

The Beverage Masters notched their eighth win in 15 outings, tying with them their victims, and leaving Talk ‘N Text and Sta. Lucia to share the second spot at 9-5 behind league-leading Purefoods (11-3).

Only one point separated the Beverage Masters at 80-79 entering the last eight minutes, when Tugade came through with back-to-back triples, highlighting a vicious 13-2 scoring binge which put Magnolia beyond reach at 94-81.

The Aces still had a lot of time to regroup with still over five minutes remaining.

The Aces, alas, failed miserably in their bid as the determined Magnolia gave its all in defense that all but settled the game, the last of eight out-of-town games for this conference.

The game was too close for comfort in the early goings as the two squads traded baskets until the Beverage Masters were hounded by a spate of misses.

The Aces then took advantage of the situation when Magnolia was hitting practically point blank from every angle. Tony dela Cruz struck for a twinner, Sonny Thoss completed a three-point play off Dondon Hontiveros, while rookie Ken Bono and Reynel Hugnatan added a basket each in an 11-to-nothing salvo.

That Alaska’s concerted effort gave it an early 19-10 lead, which went for naught after the Aces’ own offense went in shambles when the Beverage Masters started to tighten their defense.
Hugnatan, easily one of the most consistent among the Aces, topscored for Alaska with 21 points, but he failed to draw ample support when needed most. (AC)

The scores:

Magnolia 104 – Tugade 27, Seigle 27, Villanueva 15, Hontiveros 14, Tenorio 9, Pena 8., Racela 2, Ildefonso 2.

Alaska 92 – Hugnatan 21, Cortez 14, Miller 13, Thoss 11, Cariaso 10, Ferriols 9, Dela Cruz 6, Bono 4, Laure 2, Quinahan 2.

Quarterscores: 22-22, 43-46, 76-66, 104-92

Source: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1924/59/

Air21 acquires Espinas

2007-12-18T15:48:00.001-08:00

Air21 acquires Espinas

by June Navarro
Source: INQUIRER.net | December 19, 2007

Gabby Espinas became the latest addition to Air21's athletic lineup after acquiring the 6-foot-4 sophomore from Magnolia for one of the three first-round picks of the Express next season.

Air21 coach Bo Perasol said the arrival of Espinas will provide more flexibility in his rotation since he could field in the 2004 NCAA rookie-MVP either at the wings or at the post.

Perasol also said that Wynne Arboleda will be back in harness against Talk 'N Text tonight after the playmaker missed the Express' recent back-to-back losses due to conjunctivitis.

source: http://ngetstudio.com/news/?id=3343

Brgy. Ginebra Clobbers Magnolia

2007-12-16T15:33:00.001-08:00

Brgy. Ginebra Clobbers Magnolia

Posted by Renan on 2007-12-17

Jayjay Helterbrand and Ronald Tubid were both unstoppable in leading the Brgy. Ginebra Kings to a 115-100 demolition of struggling Magnolia yesterday at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Beverage Masters, who suffered their third straight setback, couldn't make headway after losing the lead in the second quarter as both Tubid and Helterbrand, together with speedy Paul Artadi were having their way.

“Ronald and Paul are giving us the energy right now, they’re helping the team in many ways,” said Uichico.

Helterbrand finished with a game-high 34 points and added 5 rebounds and 5 assists while Tubid collected 27 points, including 12-of-14 from the line for the Gin Kings.

Eric Menk, Artadi, Billy Mamaril and Mark Caguioa contributed in double figures to the Kings' cause.

Danny Seigle, handcuffed by Reavis most of the night, led the beverage Masters with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Danny Ildefonso and Enrico Villanueva were the only other players in double figures for Magnolia.

Scores:

Brgy. Ginebra 115 - Helterbrand 34, Tubid 27, Menk 12, Artadi 10, Mamaril 10, Caguioa 10, Reavis 7, Salvacion 5, Escalona 0, Macapagal 0.

Magnolia 100 - Seigle 19, Ildefonso 18, E. Villanueva 16, Tugade 9, Peña 7, Calaguio 6, Hontiveros 6, Tenorio 5, Racela 5, Gonzales 4, J. Villanueva 3, Eman 2.

Quarterscores: 24-21; 49-38; 82-65; 115-100.

/Source: http://pba-online.net/

FROM CELLAR-DWELLER TO LEAGUE’S HOTTEST TEAM

2007-12-12T22:13:00.000-08:00

FROM CELLAR-DWELLER TO LEAGUE’S HOTTEST TEAM

Buenafe-led Coke Tigers upset Magnolia for 3rd straight win

Wednesday, 12 December 2007

Exactly two weeks ago, the Coca-Cola Tigers were mired in a franchise-worst eight-game losing streak and were sinking deeper in the cellar of the team standings of the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup.

Now – thanks to that trade that brought in Asi Taulava and an inspired supporting cast led by rookie Ronjay Buenafe – they are the league’s hottest team and are making a last-ditch run to salvage a place in the playoffs.

All conference long, when things didn't look good, the Tigers never gave up and Wednesday night was no different. Their perseverance always brought them hope and it once again led to a win, a 114-108 come-from-behind victory over the stunned Magnolia Beverage Masters at the Araneta Coliseum.

Taulava had another double-double effort – his eighth in the conference -- and rookie Ronjay Buenafe improved his career-high for the second straight game with 23 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter to cap the Tigers' amazing comeback from deathbed.

"I wish I could say that I found the right formula. But there's no such thing. It all boils down to the players playing together and doing their best effort to help the team," said Coca-Cola head coach Binky Favis, who was himself visibly stunned by the outcome.

Magnolia seemed to have the game well under control after Wesley Gonzales hit a jumper and a free throw to give the Beverage Masters a 99-84 with still seven minutes to play.

But the Tigers didn't lose hope and the unexpected happened. Magnolia's offense went sour and the Coca-Cola went on a 12-0 run that ended with Alex Cabagnot knocking two free throws to pull the Tigers to within three.

Magnolia’s Rico Villanueva split his free throws to make it 100-96 but the Tigers responded with seven straight points with Buenafe highlighting that charge with successive threes that put Coca-Cola ahead to stay, 103-100, with still 3:56 to play.

"I felt they (Magnolia) took us for granted when they had the huge lead. But we didn't panic. We know we could make a run. And when we did they couldn't stop us no more,' said Taulava, who turned in 25 points and 13 rebounds – his fourth double-double in as many games since Talk ‘N Text traded him to Coca-Cola last November16 in exchange for Ali Peek and a first round pick next year.

Taulava said coming to Coke is a blessing.

"I thought I was about to retire in the next two years, but now I feel like I’m starting all over again," said the 6-foot-9 mammoth, who went 10-of-14 from the perimeter and finished three assists shy of a triple double.

It was the third consecutive victory for the Tigers, who improved to a 4-8 record and enhanced their chances to survive the elimination phase.

Cabagnot finished with 17 points and Mark Telan added 13 and 16 rebounds – his conference-leading 10^th double-double -- as the Tigers surprisingly mugged the Beverage Masters off the boards, 54-35.

It was another frustrating evening for Magnolia, which picked up their second straight loss – its first time to lose back-to-back in the conference -- and fell to 7-6 which could jeopardize its bid for an outright semifinal slot.

L.A. Tenorio scored a career-high 23 points and had nine assists and Danny Ildefonso added 22 points – his best game in the conference -- to show the way for the Beverage Masters, who shot just 36 percent in the fourth (7-of-19) and committed six of their 13 turnovers in that fateful stretch.

Magnolia took control early and led by double digits in each of the four quarters. But the Beverage Masters eventually could not match the kind of energy and enthusiasm the Tigers showed in the end (DBC)

The scores:

Coca-Cola 114 – Taulava 25, Buenafe 23, Cabagnot 17, Telan 13, Isip 11, Dimaunahan 7, Enrile 5, Duremdes 5, Tolomia 4, Arigo 4, Misolas 0.

Magnolia 108 – Tenorio 23, Ildefonso 22, Tugade 16, Gonzales 11, Seigle 10, Eman 9, Villanueva 9, Hontiveros 7, Fonacier 1, Racela 0.

Quarterscores: 28-34, 51-52, 82-80, 114-108.

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1909/59/

PENNISI STARS IN RED BULL CONQUEST OF MAGNOLIA IN CAVITE

2007-12-11T00:14:00.000-08:00

PENNISI STARS IN RED BULL CONQUEST OF MAGNOLIA IN CAVITE

Barakos now in solo 2nd, just a game behind leading Giants

Saturday, 08 December 2007

Red Bull drew strength from the clutch shooting of Mick Pennisi as it pulled off a come-from-behind 94-88 victory over Magnolia Saturday night to grab solo second place in the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup at the San Sebastian College Gym in Cavite City.

Pennisi, a member of the RP team that finished ninth in the Asian Olympic Qualifier early this year in Tokushima, Japan, buried a pair of booming triples in the fourth quarter, including one with a little over a minute to go that broke an 84-all tie.

Another three-pointer by Celino Cruz, back in the fold after missing several games due to an ankle injury, finished what was left of the Beverage Masters while sealing the Bulls their eighth win in 12 outings.

Red Bull, which dealt in separate deals Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade and Larry Fonacier to Magnolia, is now just a full game away from a slumping Purefoods, which absorbed two straight setbacks for a 9-3 card.

Junthy Valenzuela was another of Red Bull’s many heroes as the Cebuano star chipped in 14, including 10 in the fourth quarter when the Barakos made the game-clinching run.

Danny Seigle paced Magnolia with 20 points while Danny Ildefonso added 17 but the two lost their way in the stretch as the Beverage Masters fell into a tie with Alaska at No. 3 on 7-5 slates.

Down by 15 points, 47-62, midway in the third canto, the Barakos, however, kept hanging tough and calmly inched their way closer to within a single digit deficit, 72-81, with six minutes left in the match.

A 10-0 juggernaut anchored on the scrappy Valenzuela’s unrelenting pounding gave Red Bull an 82-81 lead, an advantage that was quickly snatched after Seigle scored a three-point play for an 84-83 Magnolia lead, two and a half minutes to go.

It turned out the Beverage Masters’ last show of force as three free throws by Valenzuela tied the count at 84-all and Pennisi’s triple gave the Bulls an 87-84 lead with 1.08 remaining.

After Ildefonso split his charities, Cruz sank a long trey from the right corner to stick the final dagger straight into the hearts of the Beverage Masters. Lordy Tugade had a chance to tie the count and send the game into overtime but he missed the triple from the same spot he swished a buzzer-beater in a 96-93 squeaker of a win over the Talk N Text Phone Pals Wednesday.

In that game, Magnolia dug its way out of a 24-point disadvantage, the biggest by any team since Alaska did the trick in edging Coca-Cola, 95-94, in Game 1 of their best-of-five quarterfinal duel on June 7, 2006.

The win also erased the stigma of Red Bull’s 92-96 defeat at the hands of Asi Taulava and the Coca-Cola Tigers last week.

The Barakos threatened to pull away in the opening quarter when they uncorked an 11-0 blitz to turn an eight-all deadlock to a 19-8 upperhand. But the Beverage Masters slowly but surely clawed their way back and even caught up at halftime, 41-all, thanks mainly to Ildefonso’s persistence inside.

During the first half, Red Bull was a little bit better from the field with a 42-percent shooting clip as against Magnolia’s 30-percent, but it was negated by the former turning the ball over 14 times against only seven by the latter. (JV)

The scores:

Red Bull 94 - Pennisi 16, Valenzuela 14, Duncil 13, Sharma 11, Cruz 11, Najorda 10, Ybanez 7, Membrere 5, Robinson 4, Bugia 3, Hrabak 0.

Magnolia 88 - Seigle 20, Ildefonso 17, Hontiveros 11, E. Villanueva 8, Tugade 8, Racela 8, Gonzales 5, Calaguio 5, Eman 4, Tenorio 2

Quarterscores: 23-16; 41-41; 61-72; 94-88.

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1904/59/

Tugade drains 3 at buzzer as Magnolia squeaks past TNT

2007-12-04T00:17:00.000-08:00

Tugade drains 3 at buzzer as Magnolia squeaks past TNT
Source: PBA.ph December 3, 2007
Lordy Tugade drained a triple at the buzzer as Magnolia pulled the rug from under Talk N Text, 96-93, Sunday night to regain a piece of third place with Alaska in the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.With two seconds to play, Dondon Hontiveros found Lordy Tugade on the left corner for the triple that sealed for the Beverage Masters their second straight win and seventh overall in 11 outings to join the Aces at No. 3.Magnolia thus became the first team to battle back from at least a 24-point deficit since Alaska rallied past Coca-Cola, 95-94, on June 7 in Game 1 of their best-of-five 2006 PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinal duel."We just didn't have energy at the start of the game, we tried to be aggressive in the second half," said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquincen.Dondon Hontiveros paced the Beverage Masters with 26 points, all coming in the second half when they fought back from leads as big as 24 points.But the biggest shot came from Tugade, one of the three new players who came in early in the year from Red Bull that includes Rico Villanueva and Larry Fonacier.The score tied at 93-all with two seconds to go, Tugade got off free on a pick by Danny Ildefonso and heaved a triple that swished the net, completing the come-from-behind win.The Pals, who led almost all throughout, fell to their third straight setback and sixth overall on their first game since dealing Asi Taulava to the Tigers in exchange for Ali Peek and a 2008 rookie draft pick.Ritualo lit a firecracker of three-pointers in the first quarter as the Pals took control early and led by 11 points at the end of the period. Cardona then took charge in the second canto with a nine-point splurge there that helped pad Talk N Text's lead even further, 53-29, at the break.Ritualo finished the first half with 16 points on an impressive six-of-nine field goal shooting.The Pals dominated the boards early, 32-20, pulling down 12 on the offensive end where they sneaked in 12 points against none by the Beverage Masters. (JV)
The Scores:
Second GameMagnolia 96 - Hontiveros 26, Tugade 19, Seigle 11, Ildefonso 11, E. Villanueva 10, Tenorio 7, Eman 4, Racela 3, Wilson 2, Calaguio 2, Gonzales 1, J. Villanueva 0Talk N Text 93 - Ritualo 19, Washington 16, de Ocampo 13, Cardona 12, Alapag 10, Peek 8, Carey 7, Allado 6, Belano 2, Aljamal 0.Quarterscores: 17-28; 29-53; 59-73; 96-93.

/copied from: http://ngetstudio.com/news/?id=3237

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

2007-11-30T19:55:00.000-08:00

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

Calaguio finishes off what Seigle started to tow Beverage Masters to share of 3rd

Friday, 30 November 2007

One team played it’s A-game while the other could have simply played on an off night.

Drawing strength from a hot-shooting start, Magnolia smashed pace-setting Purefoods 108-86 in a Friday massacre to seize a share of third place with Alaska Milk in the 2007 Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the packed Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

2007-11-30T19:53:00.000-08:00

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

Calaguio finishes off what Seigle started to tow Beverage Masters to share of 3rd

Friday, 30 November 2007

One team played it’s A-game while the other could have simply played on an off night.

Chris Calaguio led all scorers with 22 points but it was Danny Seigle who waxed hot early as he unleashed 15 of his 18 points in the first half when the Beverage Masters took the fight out of the Giants early to join the Alaska Aces at No. 3 on a 6-4 slate.

More importantly, the win set Magnolia, tipped in the pre-season to go all the way with a talent-laden line-up, back on its feet after succumbing to red-hot Red Bull, 95-107, last week at the Big Dome.

It was also the worst setback suffered by the Giants, who trailed by as much as 38 points (101-63), under coach Ryan Gregorio since a 102-78 loss to Talk ‘N Text in Game 3 of their quarterfinal series in last season’s Philippine Cup last January 7.

“What can say, the players played aggressive, they really wanted to win,” said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquincen.

With Seigle and Rico Villanueva, one of three players who souped up the Magnolia roster this year, bulldozing their way to a combined 25 points in the early goings, the Beverage Masters roared to a huge start and led by 32 points twice, the last at 57-25, late in the second period.

So hot were the Beverage Masters that they made 20 of their 37 shots including a 15-of-25 clip from the two-point area in the first half that broke the game wide open.

While Magnolia was making their shots at the start, Purefoods couldn’t keep up as it muffed 23 of the 32 shots it attempted.

The Beverage Masters also milked 21 points off 11 turnovers by the Giants in the first 24 minutes of play while the latter couldn’t juice a single point from their foe’s errors.

It was also a sweet win for Magnolia as it avenged a 90-93 defeat to Purefoods on Oct. 26 in a game the former lead by 17 points in the first quarter and 45-32 at the break before disintegrating.

In that game, James Yap unleashed 25 points including 13 in the last quarter that sealed it.

This time though, Yap was silenced as he was held to just 17 points on a woeful six-of-15 shooting from the field as the Giants fell to a second loss against nine wins. (JV)

The scores:

Magnolia 106- Calaguio 22, Seigle 18, Villanueva 16, Racela 11, Eman 10, Wilson 7, Ildefonso 7, Tugade 6, Hontiveros 5, Tenorio 4, Espinas 2, Villanueva 0

Purefoods 88- Lanete 19, Yap 17, Salvador 9, Raymundo 9, Simon 8, Pingris 7, Sanz 6, Yee 4, Cablay 3, Evangelista 3, Adducul 1, Larong 0

Quarterscores: 28-14, 59-31; 81-54; 108-86

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1890/59/

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

2007-11-23T19:32:00.000-08:00

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

“What we have achieved is totally beyond our expectations” – coach Yeng

Friday, 23 November 2007

It had the makings of a classic down-to-the-wire game up until halftime. Then Junthy Valenzuela and Leo Najorda caught fire and ripped the game open in third quarter.

The Red Bull duo combined for 17 points in that decisive period and the Barakos went on to beat the Magnolia Beverage Masters, 107-95, Friday night in the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

2007-11-23T19:31:00.001-08:00

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

“What we have achieved is totally beyond our expectations” – coach Yeng

Friday, 23 November 2007

It had the makings of a classic down-to-the-wire game up until halftime. Then Junthy Valenzuela and Leo Najorda caught fire and ripped the game open in third quarter.

"What we have achieved at this point is totally beyond our expectations," offered Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao after the Barakos notched their second straight win and fifth in eight games that propelled them into second spot behind leader Purefoods TJ Giants (8-1).

Truth is, nobody thought the game would be a blowout. In fact, Magnolia had the luxury of dictating the pace in the first half that ended with the Beverage Masters leading , 44-41.

They were still ahead, 48-43, after a basket by Lordy Tugade early in the third, but after that, things turned for the worse. The Beverage Masters started to miss their shots, committed turnovers one after the other and broke down on defense.

That was all Red Bull needed.

A 3-pointer by Mike Hrabak was followed by another trey from Valenzuela – who has been reduced to reserve status to enable him to rest his strained hamstring – sparking a jolting 22-to-nothing run in span of five minutes. Najorda closed that spurt with successive baskets that gave Red Bull a 65-48 advantage.

"Playing Magnolia is like playing ourselves in the mirror. We know Rico (Villanueva), Larry (Fonacier) and Lordy (Tugade) (former Red Bull Players) also want to beat us badly, " said Guiao. "When we're not playing them, I feel proud of what they have accomplished."

The three were part of Red Bull’s last championship.

Najorda finished with 17 points, Valenzuela added 16 and Warren Ibanez, Carlo Sharma and Mick Pennisi had 14 apiece for Red Bull, which made 12-of-25 3-point attempts.

Sophomore Magnum Membrere also made a good account of himself, scoring 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting.

"Everytime we win this way it always boosts the players’ confidence. I just hope we could keep our focus,” Guiao said.

Magnolia slowly recovered from the spell as Olsen Racela and Dondon Hontiveros started hitting their mark. The Beverage Masters managed to pull within 75-83 on a twinner by Hontiveros with 8:13 to play but the Barakos quickly answered with a 11-2 run capped by Ibanez's seven straight points to keep Magnolia at bay, 94-77.

Tugade led Magnolia with 17 points and LA Tenorio and Villanueva added 16 apiece. No other player scored in double figures for Magnolia, which closed out the first elimination round with a 5-4 mark to drop to third place in a tie with Talk N Text. (DBC)

The scores:

Red Bull 107 - Najorda 17, Valenzuela 16, Ybanez 14, Sharma 14, Pennisi 14, Membrere 11, Baguio 9, Hrabak 6, Robinson 4, Bugia 2, Duncil 0.

Magnolia 95 - Tugade 17, Tenorio 16, Villanueva 16, Espinas 8, Racela 8, Hontiveros 8, Ildefonso 8, Eman 6, Fonacier 6, Gonzales 2.

Quarters 20-20, 41-44, 76-62, 107-95.

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1877/59/

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2007-11-19T16:25:00.000-08:00

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TUGADE’S CAREER-HIGH 34 LIFTS MAGNOLIA PAST GINEBRA

2007-11-18T15:17:00.000-08:00

TUGADE’S CAREER-HIGH 34 LIFTS MAGNOLIA PAST GINEBRA

2007-11-18T15:15:00.000-08:00

TUGADE’S CAREER-HIGH 34 LIFTS MAGNOLIA PAST GINEBRA
Beverage Masters move up to solo second, hand Kings 5th loss in last 6 games
Sunday, 18 November 2007
Danny Seigle and Dondon Hontiveros weren't as sharp as they usually were. But the Magnolia Beverage Masters didn't have to worry.

Barangay Ginebra had no answer for Lordy Tugade as the sleek-shooting forward scorched the defending champion Kings with a career-high 34 points that propelled the Beverage Masters to a 101-90 victory Sunday night in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

In his finest performance since being traded to Magnolia, Tugade made 11-of-19 attempts including 5-of-9 from the 3-point range in an amazing display of shotmaking that surprised even his coach.

"What can I say. It was a hell of a shooting performance by Lordy. What he did tonight was a testament to his work ethic," said Magnolia head coach Siot Tanquingcen.

"Even I as a coach enjoyed watching his shooting amazing display of shotmaking. He was awesome," Tanquingcen added.

Tugade, acquired by the Beverage Masters in the middle of last season in a trade with Red Bull, was at his deadliest in the fourth quarter where he scored 13 of his points as Magnolia held off repeated threats by Barangay Ginebra. His 3-pointer with 4:15 remaining gave the Beverage Masters a comfortable 89-77 spread then fittingly closed out scoring by chalking up the games last four points – a driving lay-up in the lane and two free throws.

But Tanquingcen was quick to caution that they treat each game differently.

"This is not just about Lordy, however. Every game is a team effort. We just do things differently on different situations," offered Tanquingcen.

Hontiveros made just six attempts and still finished with 16 points, Enrico Villanueva added 14 and L.A. Tenorio dished off eight assists for Magnolia which bounced back from a heartbreaking 77-85 loss against Air 21 last Friday to improved to 5-3.

Seigle, who came into the game averaging 19 points, managed just nine on a 2-of-6 shooting from the field for the Beverage Masters who shot 50.8 percent (33-of-65) from the field to offset their 23 turnovers.

Eric Menk, tallied 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds – his best so far – which came in his third game since returning from injury but his effort couldn't prevent the Kings from picking up its second straight loss and sixth in eight games.

Jayjay Helterbrand scored 17 points and had nine assists, Ronald Tubid had 15 and Billy Mamaril and Mark Caguioa contributed 10 apiece for the Kings, who shot just 35 percent as a team.

The Kings who trailed by as much as 14 points (73-59) late in the third quarter, threatened for the last time at 90-96 on a 3-pointer by Tubid with 1:21 remaining.

After Hontiveros split his free throws, the Kings had a chance to move closer. But Helterbrand missed on a floater and Tubud was called for "T" for clinging onto the rim while attempting to put back Helterbrand's shot.

The scores:

Magnolia 101 – Tugade 34, Hontiveros 16, Villanueva 14, Racela 9, Seigle 9, Tenorio 7, Eman 3, Gonzales 3, Calaguio 3, Ildefonso 3.

Barangay Ginebra 90 – Menk 22, Helterbrand 17, Tubid 15, Mamaril 10, Caguioa 10, Reavis 7, Escalona 5, Aquino 3, Holper 1, Macapagal 0, Salvacion 0.
Quarterscores: 27-21, 44-37, 73-64, 101-90.

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1868/59/

WELCOAT COMPLETES 1ST BACK-TO-BACK WINS IN PBA

2007-11-16T21:26:00.000-08:00

WELCOAT COMPLETES 1ST BACK-TO-BACK WINS IN PBA

2007-11-16T21:21:00.000-08:00

WELCOAT COMPLETES 1ST BACK-TO-BACK WINS IN PBA
After TNT last Sunday, Dragons victimize Magnolia this time around
Friday, 16 November 2007
Rookie Ryan Arana came through with consecutive three-point plays down the stretch as the Welcoat Dragons overcome a scoreless spell early in the fourth quarter and dealt the Magnolia Beverage Masters a jolting 95-93 upset Friday night in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Cuneta Astrodome.

It was another improbable victory for the Dragons, who blew a 17-point third quarter lead and were staring at a 77-85 deficit with 7:13 to play. But their big fighting hearts and grim determination enabled them to pull through.

"Talagang sobra ang saya naming specially the management. Magnolia is a great team and nobody thought we could get the job done. But my players proved tonight that hard work and the will to win can do wonders," said Welcoat coach Leo Austria, himself overjoyed with the result.

Welcoat's follow-up to its 126-125 overtime win against Talk N Text last Sunday marks the first back-to-back wins for the franchise since joining the league last season.

Nic Belasco, who knocked the game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer in the win over the Phone Pals, had another dominating performance with 18 points and 14 rebounds as the Dragons improved to a 3-4 (win-loss) record.

"Credit goes to all the players. Everybody made a good account tonight. But Nic provided us the inspiration. He showed he's not yet over the hill," Austria said of his veteran forward, who is turning 34 next month.

Rob Wainwright tallied 18 points, rookie top pick Joe Devance had 16 and Jay-R Reyes and Arana added 12 apiece with the latter coming up with his highest output so far in the league. Denver Lopez contributed conference-high outputs of 10 points and seven assists for Welcoat, which surprisingly won the game despite shooting just 27 percent (5-of-18) from the field in the fourth quarter.

The Dragons, who controlled most part of the game with good ball movement and excellent defense, led 77-69 at the end of the third quarter but went 0-of-5 and turned the ball over six times in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter.

Magnolia exploited the situation and with Larry Fonacier and Wesley Gonzales taking charge, the Beverage Masters completed a 16-to-nothing run and stormed ahead, 85-77.

But the Dragons didn't lose heart and it paid off.

As the game reached the halfway mark of the fourth, Magnolia's offense turned sour and the Dragons took the opportunity to rally with Arana, the 12th pick overall in draft, capping a 13-0 blast with successive three-point plays that enabled Welcoat to regain the lead, 90-85, with 3:44 left.

Dondon Hontiveros knocked in a 3-pointer to cut the gap to two points but Devance answered with a three-point play and Wainwright added two free throws as Welcoat all but wrapped up the match.

Hontiveros led all scorers with 24 points, 20 in the first half, as Magnolia prevented Welcoat from ripping the game apart early. The Dragons opened a 24-11 lead with 4:44 left in the opening quarter.

Danny Seigle scored 19 points but went scoreless in the fourth, LA Tenorio had 15 and Rico Villanueva 11 for Magnolia (4-3) which gave up 29 points on 20 turnovers.

The scores:

Welcoat 95 – Wainwright 18, Belasco 18, Devance 16, Arana 12, Reyes 12, Lopez 10, Gelig 4, Ibanes 3, Baguion 2, Dulay 0, Sta. Maria 0, Tangkay 0.

Magnolia 93 – Hontiveros 24, Seigle 19, Tenorio 15, Villanueva 11, Ildefonso 9, Fonacier 5, Gonzales 4, Eman 2, Wilson 2, Tugade 2, Racela 0.

Quarterscores: 30-24, 48-49, 77-69, 95-93.

ROOKIE BIG MAN EMAN SHOWS STUFF HE’S MADE OF

2007-11-09T23:13:00.000-08:00

ROOKIE BIG MAN EMAN SHOWS STUFF HE’S MADE OF

Leads Magnolia to big win over Alaska

Friday, 09 November 2007

ANTIPOLO CITY – The future seems to be coming faster than expected as far as Samigue Eman is concerned, and Magnolia is not complaining.

The second overall pick in this year’s Draft gave a peek of the damage he can inflict in helping the Beverage Masters pull off a gripping 112-108 win over Alaska Friday night in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Ynares Center.

The 6-foot-8 Davao City-born Eman was perfect from both the field and the stripe to finish with a career-high 16 points, spicing up his performance with five rebounds and a conference-high five blocks in 25 minutes of action.

Those numbers were a far cry from the former University of Mindanao standout, who went into the game averaging only 3.8 points and 2.8 rebounds in Magnolia’s first five games.

“He really played well,” admitted Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen of Eman’s efforts that stole the limelight from his other big men, Rico Villanueva and Danny Ildefonso. “But it’s unfair to get the expectations too high. He’s a project. His value will be known in two years. That’s a bonus for us that he played well.”

The win improved the Beverage Masters’ win-loss record to 4-2, joining idle Talk ‘N Text at second spot and bouncing the team back from a bitter 94-100 loss to the Phone
Pals in their previous game last Saturday in Muntinlupa City.

The loss ended a three-game winning streak by Alaska, dropping it to solo fifth with a 3-3 record.

Helping out big were Danny Seigle, who came off the bench to scatter a teamhigh 20 points, and Lordy Tugade, who scored 14 points, including five of Magnolia’s last six.

Willie Miller topscored for Alaska with 28 points, including three triples that accounted for all but one of the Aces’ last 10 points. The reigning league MVP actually sank four triples in the final 1:52.

Eman’s last field goal gave Magnolia a 105-98 lead with 53 seconds to go, a cushion that seemed safe enough for the Beverage Masters. Just a few seconds later, though, Magnolia actually needed Tugade to finish off the pesky Aces.

Tugade drained a booming triple and then followed that up with a pair of charities as Magnolia seized a 111-105 lead, only 16 seconds left in the game.

Miller connected on a triple again, but there were only 2.9 seconds to go, and Wesley Gonzales had a split for the final count.

After Miller cut Magnolia’s lead to two with a three-pointer, 97-99, Tenorio and Ildefonso made their two free throws before Jeffrey Cariaso split his pair from the foul line to make it 103-98.

In the next play, Ildefonso found an open Eman inside the shaded area for a rim-rattling dunk, 105-98, with 53 seconds to go.

The Beverage Masters shot better from the field, making 38-of-75 for 50.7 percent, while the Aces made 39-of-92 for 42.4 percent.

The Aces had an 11-point lead twice in the first half – 19-8 on a jumper by Miller with 5:18 left in the first quarter and 44-33 on two free throws by Reynel Hugnatan, 5:01 to go in the second period.

But the Beverage Masters climbed their way back through an 11-0 run, capped by a lay-up by rookie Jonas Villanueva to tie the score at 44-all.

Halftime ended with Alaska ahead by just the slimmest of margins, 48-47. (NCo)

The scores:

Magnolia 112 – Seigle 20, Eman 16, Tugade 14, Ildefonso 12, Hontiveros 11, Tenorio 10, Gonzales 10, Villanueva R. 9, Villanueva J. 5, Fonacier 5, Racela 0.

Alaska 108 – Miller 28, Cortez 17, Hugnatan 16, Ferriols 12, Laure 10, Bono 9, Thoss 9, Cariaso 5, dela Cruz 2, Capus 0.

Quarterscores: 21-27, 47-48, 76-76, 112-108.

/copied from: http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1853/59/

HOT AND COLD TALK ‘N TEXT SUBDUES MAGNOLIA IN MUNTINLUPA

2007-11-04T16:15:00.000-08:00

HOT AND COLD TALK ‘N TEXT SUBDUES MAGNOLIA IN MUNTINLUPA

Pals, Bevarage Masters share 3rd spot at 3-2

Saturday, 03 November 2007

Talk n Text stayed on a roller-coaster ride, moving up Saturday night with a win over Magnolia in a PBA road game at the Fresnedi Gym in Muntinlupa.

The Pals showed up the Beverage Masters, 100-94, forcing a tie between themselves at third place through the first three weeks of the 2007-08 Smart Philippine Cup.

Coach Derrick Pumaren and his troops caught up with coach Siot Tanquingcen and his chargers at 3-2 after going win-loss-win-loss-win in their first five games
in the tourney.

The Beverage Masters dropped from first place to second and now joint third having lost two of their last three games.

After Renren Ritualo and Olsen Racela hit a three-point each to start the match, the Pals raced to a 12-3 lead and never looked back, moving within striking distance of the front-running Purefoods Giants (4-0) and the second-running Red Bull Barakos (3-1).

The Pals will be out to finally score their first successive wins in the tourney as they go up against the Barakos Wednesday at the Astrodome.

Stunned by Sta. Lucia, 87-97, the last time out, Talk n Text played with great resolve, establishing control early and hanging tough in the face of Magnolia’s determined chase at the finish.

Eight Pals scored at least eight as Talk n Text killed Magnolia with a well-balanced game.

Macmac Cardona, Harvey Carey, Don Allado, Asi Taulava and Felix Belano hit double figures while Renren Ritualo, Jayjay Washington and Jimmy Alapag contributed 25 points together.

Danny Seigle led all scorers with 26 with Dondon Hontiveros adding 14, Lordy Tugade 12 and Samigue Eman and Willy Wilson with 10 each.

The Pals built double-digit spreads right in the opening quarter and posted a 51-40 lead at halftime. (NC)

The scores:

Talk n Text 100 – Cardona 15, Carey 14, Allado 13, Taulava 12, Belano 12, Ritualo 9, Washington 8, Alapag 8, Aljamal 6, De Ocampo 2.

Magnolia 94 – Seigle 26, Hontiveros 14, Tugade 12, Eman 10, Wilson 10, Ildefonso 9, Racela 5, Villanueva E. 4, Villanueva J. 4, Fonacier 0, Gonzales 0.

Quarterscores: 28-15, 51-40, 73-68, 100-94

Tugade powers Magnolia over Coke

2007-11-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

Tugade powers Magnolia over Coke
By Noli Cortez, Malaya Online Edition
October 29, 2007

Lordy Tugade scattered 13 of his gamehigh 21 points in the final period, boosting Magnolia to an 89-78 win over tough Coca-Cola last night in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Tugade's explosion came after the Beverage Masters were being threatened to be dragged into a longer nip-and-tuck affair when the Tigers tied it up at 70-all, 6:25 left in the game.

By the time the smoke of Tugade's hot shooting hands cleared, he already had 11 points in the quarter, including two triples and a three-point play that had the Beverage Masters sitting on an insurmountable 85-75 spread, only 1:47 left.

It was the third win in four games for Magnolia, putting it back on track after a 90-93 loss to Purefoods last Friday.

Ali Peek had 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead Coke, which absorbed its second straight loss and dropped to a tie with idle Welcoat, Alaska and Ginebra at 1-2.

For Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen, it was Tugade's timely eruption and a little defensive adjustment that enabled them to overcome as much as a 40-52 third quarter deficit.

"We played more zone tonight, from the middle of the third (period) and all of the fourth," he related.

Coke rookie Ronjay Buenafe and Peek mainly bore the brunt of that defensive shift as they combined for 18 points at the half but totaled nine the rest of the way. Mark Telan, who had a third straight double-double with 13 and 11, and John Arigo 11 and eight, could only futilely try and pick up the slack.

The Scores:

First Game

Magnolia 89 - Tugade 21, Seigle 12, Villanueva E. 11, Ildefonso 11, Villanueva J. 7, Racela 6, Hontiveros 6, Fonacier 5, Tenorio 3, Gonzales 3, Eman 2, Wilson 2.

Coca-Cola 78 - Peek 16, Telan 13, Buenafe 11, Arigo 11, Tolomia 9, Calimag 7, Enrile 6, Rizada 4, Duremdes 1, Isip 0.

Quarterscores: 22-14, 38-44, 65-62, 89-78.

GAME SCHEDULES

2007-11-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

Oct.14 - Sunday

6:30 p.m. Air21 Express vs Magnolia Beverage Masters

Oct. 21- Sunday

4:05 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Sta Lucia realtors

Oct. 26 – Friday

7:20 p.m. Purefoods vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Oct. 28 – Sunday

4:05 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Coca Cola Tigers

Nov.03 – Saturday

6:20 p.m. Talk n Text vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Nov.09 – Friday

4:35 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Alaska Aces

Nov. 18 – Sunday

4:05 p.m. Ginebra vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Nov.23 – Friday

7:20 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Red Bull

Nov.30 – Friday

7:20 p.m. Purefoods vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Dec. 12 – Wednesday

4:35 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Coca-cola

Dec.16 – Sunday

6:30 p.m. Ginebra vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Dec. 28 – Friday

7:20 p.m. Magnolia Beverage Masters vs. Air 21 Express

Jan. 06 – Sunday

6:30 p.m Sta Lucia Realtors vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Jan. 11 – Friday

4:35 p.m. Welcoat Dragons vs. Magnolia Beverage Masters

Tugade rescues Magnolia, Beats Coca-Cola

2007-11-02T19:38:00.001-07:00

Tugade rescues Magnolia, Beats Coca-Cola

Posted by Renan on 2007-10-29
The Magnolia Beverage Masters bounced back after losing to Purefoods in their last game, sizzling in the final quarter to score an 89-78 victory over a determined Coca-Cola Tigers squad.

Lordy Tugade presided the fourth quarter onslaught with back-to-back three point shots, scoring 13 of his 21 points in the period.

The Beverage Masters trailed for most of the first three quarters as the Tigers behind Ali Peek and Mark Telan controlled the shaded lane.

But the switch to zone defense got the Beermen going, forcing the Tigers to take outside shots that mostly missed the mark, paving the way fot the comeback.

Danny Seigle added 12 points and Danny Ildefonso and Enrico Villanueva contributed 11 each for the Beverage Masters.

Peek led the Tigrs with 16, Telan added 13, and John Arigo and rookie Ronjay Buenafe each had 11 for the Tigers.

Scores:

Magnolia 89 -- Tugade 21, Seigle 12, Villanueva 11, Ildefonso 11, Villanueva 7, Racela 6, Hontiveros 6, Fonacier 5, Tenorio 3, Gonzales 3, Eman 2, Wilson 2.

Coca-Cola 78 – Peek 16, Telan 13, Buenafe 11, Arigo 11, Tolomia 9, Calimag 7, Enrile 6, Rizada 4, Duremdes 1, Isip 0.

Quarterscores: 22-14, 38-44, 65-62, 89-78.

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK ON TRACK WITH WIN OVER COKE

2007-11-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK ON TRACK WITH WIN OVER COKE

Tugade sizzles in fourth period to lead Beverage Masters to 3rd win in 4 starts

Sunday, 28 October 2007

Against a team that showed a lot of determination, the Magnolia Beverage Masters needed to dig deep into their defensive arsenal and a couple of jolting threes from Lordy Tugade to avoid another impending heartbreaker.

Tugade unleashed 13 of his game-high 21 points in the fourth quarter to anchor a fiery comeback by Magnolia on the way to an 89-78 victory over the Coca-Cola Tigers Sunday night in the Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Coming off its first loss of the conference via a 93-90 loss to Purefoods last Friday, Magnolia seemed headed for another frustrating night as it struggled to get its rhythm – offensive and defensively -- against an energized Coca-Cola unit that kept the Beverage Masters’ star-studded opponents reeling off the ropes for most of the early part of the game.

Missing its targets so badly, they then decided to turn their focus on defense.

It worked wonders.

Magnolia's perfectly-executed zone forced the Tigers from taking their shots from outside where they fared poorly and eventually committed crucial turnovers in their next possessions.

By the time the Tigers showed signs of cracking up, Tugade suddenly found his shooting touch and completed the annihilation of Coca-Cola.

After Mark Telan, who finished with(13 points and 11 rebounds, made two free throws to tie the count at 70-all, Tugade conspired with Dondon Hontiveros and veteran playmaker Olsen Racela in unleashing a deadly 9-0 blast over a five-minute stretch.

Telan answered with a 3-pointer to pull Coke to within 73-79 with 3:05 remaining but Tugade quickly replied with two threes of his own as Magnolia all but sealed the game for its third win in four starts.

"We made a little adjustment down the stretch. Good thing the zone worked,” said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen.

"But we're still struggling. We're still trying to get everybody in the grove specially the starters. I'm trying to give everybody their minutes but right now it’s not possible," he added.

Ali Peek scored 16 points and cornered 11 rebounds and rookie Ronjay Buenafe and John Arigo had 11 apiece for Coke, which picked up its second loss in three games.

Three-pointers by Chester Tolomia, Ronjay Enrile and Ricky Calimag midway in the second quarter put Coke in control 40-33.

The Tigers stretched their lead to 52-40 on free throw by Telan early in the fourth but they began to lose their grip of the lead as their shooting started to turn sour. Coke shot woeful 28 percent (6-of-21) from the field in the third and trailed Magnolia 65-62 heading to the final period. They never led again.

The scores:

Magnolia 89 -- Tugade 21, Seigle 12, Villanueva 11, Ildefonso 11, Villanueva 7, Racela 6, Hontiveros 6, Fonacier 5, Tenorio 3, Gonzales 3, Eman 2, Wilson 2.

Coca-Cola 78 – Peek 16, Telan 13, Buenafe 11, Arigo 11, Tolomia 9, Calimag 7, Enrile 6, Rizada 4, Duremdes 1, Isip 0.

Quarterscores: 22-14, 38-44, 65-62, 89-78.

Purefoods Downs Powerhouse Magnolia, Grabs Solo Lead

2007-11-02T19:32:00.000-07:00

Purefoods Downs Powerhouse Magnolia, Grabs Solo Lead

Posted by Renan on 2007-10-27

Purefoods TJ Giants, made a big comeback from 17 points down in the first quarter to score a come-from-behind, nail-biting 93-90 win over pre-tournament favorite Magnolia Beverage Masters, remining unbeaten ang grabbing the solo lead in the 2007-2008 Smart PBA Philippine Cup yesterday.

Down 14-31 at the end of the first, things got worst for the Giants in the 2nd as Kerby Raymundo was called for his 3rd foul and Roger Yap got thrown out of the game, apparently punching Magnolia's LA Tenorio in the stomach.

But Purefoods limited San Miguel to only 14 points in that quarter with their tireless defense as the Masters settled for a 45-32 halftime edge.

The Giants close the gap in the 3rd but found itself trailing by 10, 70-80 with seven minutes to play. That was the time James Yap started to assert himself as he led a 20-5 Purefoods run to grab a 90-85 lead, thei biggest of the game.

James Yap clinched the game with two free throw just 1.7 seconds remaining.

"It’s a good test. We passed it through perseverance," said Gregorio on their pulsating victory.

James Yap finished with 25 oints and added 8 rebounds. Rookie Chico Lañete, who took the place of Roger Yap, added 16. Peter June Simon had 13,Kerby Raymundo 11 and Jondan Salvador 10 for the Giants.

Lordy Tugade led the Beverage Masters with 23. Enrico Villanueva had 16, Danny Seigle and Danny Ildfonso 12 and Dondon Hontiveros 11.

Scores:

Purefoods 93 – Yap 25, Lanete 16, Simon 13, Raymundo 11, Salvador 10, Pingris 6, Adducul 5, Yap R. 4, Yee 2, Larong 1, Sanz 0, Cablay 0.

Magnolia 90 – Tugade 23, Villanueva R. 16, Seigle 12, Ildefonso 12, Hontiveros 11, Tenorio 6, Racela 6, Wilson 4, Eman 0, Fonacier 0, Calaguio 0.

Quarterscores: 14-31, 32-45, 66-69, 93-90

Hontiveros Gets Hot, Magnolia 2-0

2007-11-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hontiveros Gets Hot, Magnolia 2-0
Posted by Renan on 2007-10-22
Dondon Hontiveros, struggling through the first 3 quarters with only 4 points, suddenly went berserk, hitting 5-of-5 from the field, including 2 3-pointers in the last 6 minutes powering Magnolia to a tough 101-96 win over the Sta. Lucia Realtors to share the early lead in the 2007-2008 Smart PBA Philippine Cup yesterday at the Araneta Coliseum.

With Joseph Yeo having a career game and beanpole Marlou Aquino playing like it was 10 years ago, the Realtors surged ahead, 87-81 with under 7 minutes to go in the 4th. In a surprise mobe by coach Boyet Fernandez, Marlou Aquino was pulled out at that time.

Hontiveros went hot thereafter, hitting 2 3-pointers to pull the Beverage Masters to just one, 93-94. Sta. Lucia rookie Ryan Reyes sanked 2 free throws to push the Realtors up, 96-93 with only2:12 to go.

After trading miss shots, Danny Seigle scored on a tough layup over Kelly Williams and Dondon Hontiveros nailed consecutive tough jumpers that put Magnolia ahead 99-96, only 26 seconds remaining.

"The moment I get my rhythm things just fell into place," said Honotiveros, who managed just four points after the first three quarters.

Hontiveros and Seigle both finished with 18 points for Magnolia. Lordy Tugade, Olsen Racela, Enrico Villanueva and Danny Ildefonso also contributed in double figures for the Masters.

Sta. Lucia was lead by a career-high 24 points from Joseph Yeo. Marlou Aquino added 19 and Dennis Espino, who missed 4 consecutive freethrows in the 4th added 12.

Scores:

Magnolia 101 – Hontiveros 18, Seigle 18, Tugade 16, Racela 14, Villanueva R. 13, Ildefonso 12, Tenorio 4, Eman 2, Fonacier 2, Gonzales 2, Villanueva J. 0.

Sta. Lucia 96 – Yeo 24, Aquino 19, Espino 12, Williams 9, Miranda 9, Mendoza 9, Gonzales 5, Reyes 4, Omolon 3, Daa 2, Coronel 0.

Quarterscores: 28-25, 48-46, 76-71, 101-96.

Magnolia vs Coca Cola

2007-11-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

Magnolia 89 -- Tugade 21, Seigle 12, Villanueva 11, Ildefonso 11, Villanueva 7, Racela 6, Hontiveros 6, Fonacier 5, Tenorio 3, Gonzales 3, Eman 2, Wilson 2.

Coca-Cola 78 – Peek 16, Telan 13, Buenafe 11, Arigo 11, Tolomia 9, Calimag 7, Enrile 6, Rizada 4, Duremdes 1, Isip 0.

Quarterscores: 22-14, 38-44, 65-62, 89-78.

Magnolia vs Sta Lucia

2007-11-02T19:25:00.000-07:00

Magnolia 101 – Hontiveros 18, Seigle 18, Tugade 16, Racela 14, Villanueva R. 13, Ildefonso 12, Tenorio 4, Eman 2, Fonacier 2, Gonzales 2, Villanueva J. 0.

Sta. Lucia 96 – Yeo 24, Aquino 19, Espino 12, Williams 9, Miranda 9, Mendoza 9, Gonzales 5, Reyes 4, Omolon 3, Daa 2, Coronel 0.

Quarterscores: 28-25, 48-46, 76-71, 101-96.

Magnolia vs Purefoods

2007-11-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

Purefoods 93 – Yap 25, Lanete 16, Simon 13, Raymundo 11, Salvador 10, Pingris 6, Adducul 5, Yap R. 4, Yee 2, Larong 1, Sanz 0, Cablay 0.

Magnolia 90 – Tugade 23, Villanueva R. 16, Seigle 12, Ildefonso 12, Hontiveros 11, Tenorio 6, Racela 6, Wilson 4, Eman 0, Fonacier 0, Calaguio 0.

Quarterscores: 14-31, 32-45, 66-69, 93-90

Strong Debut

2007-10-16T03:11:00.001-07:00

Strong debut

Cebu Daily News

Posted date: October 15, 2007

New-look Magnolia Beverage Masters show off formidable roster by beating
young Air21 Express in PBA opener.

The Magnolia Beverage Masters showed what a talent-laden team can do as they overcame a 10-point third quarter deficit to bring down the Air21 Express, 121-112, on Sunday night at the start of the 2007 PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Holding one of the best rosters in the league today, Magnolia (formerly San Miguel) is considered as one of the teams to beat in the conference and the Beverage Masters lived up to that lofty billing by spanking the Express, who showed no signs of intimidation early in the game.

The Express waxed hot in the first half, nailing eight of their 14 three-point attempts to take a 56-52 lead at the bend.

Air21 erected a 65-55 lead early in the third before the Beverage Masters answered with a searing run that signaled the downfall of the hapless Express.

Behind the hot hands of Cebuano hotshot Dondon Hontiveros, Magnolia took the fight out of the Express with a blistering 25-6 run, erasing a 10-point deficit to go up by nine, 80-71.

Hontiveros, who was held to only two points in the first half, scored 10 points in that run and finished the game with 15 markers.

While Magnolia started to catch fire, the Express suddenly ran out of ammunition and fell behind by as many as 17 points in the fourth, 112-95.

Showing what damage they could do offensively, the start-studded Beverage Masters had six players in score in double figures with Danny Seigle leading the charge with 28 points, 15 coming in the second half.

Enrico Villanueva added 20, Larry Fonacier, Lordy Tugade and Danny Ildefonso contributed 11 apiece for Magnolia, which failed to beat Air21 in three occasions during the Fiesta Conference.

Fonacier, a former Red Bull Barako, had a stellar debut for the Beverage Masters and highlighted his brilliant game with a rare four-point play in the final 4:55, giving Magnolia that 17-point lead.

KG Canaleta scattered a game-high 32 points on a 6-of-9 shooting from the three-point territory for Air21.

BOX SCORES
MAGNOLIA (121)- Seigle 28, Villanueva 20, Hontiveros 15, Ildefonso 11, Fonacier 11, Tugade 11, Tenorio 9, Racela 8, Eman 5, Gonzales 3, Wilson 0.
AIR21 (112)- Canaleta 32, Santos 21, Arboleda 15, Dimaunahan 9, Se 8, Cruz 7, Sotto 6, Intal 5, De Ocampo 4, Kramer 3, Baluyot 2, Chia 0.
QUARTERSCORES: 25-32, 52-56, 86-81, 121-112. /Correspondent Calvin D. Cordova

GAME RESULTS

2007-10-16T03:07:00.000-07:00

Magnolia VS Air21

The scores:

Magnolia 121 - Seigle 28, Villanueva, R. 20, Hontiveros 15, Fonacier 11, Tugade 11, Ildefonso 11, Tenorio 9, Racela 8, Eman 5, Gonzales 3, Wilson 0.

Air21 112 - Canaleta 32, Santos 21, Arboleda 15, Dimaunahan 9, Se 8, Cruz 7, Sotto 6, Intal 5, de Ocampo 4, Kramer 3, Baluyot 2, Chia 0.

Quarters: 25-32, 52-56, 86-81, 121-112.

MBM vs AIR21 in the OPENER

2007-10-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

Magnolia freezes Air21 in opener
By Nelson Beltran, The Philippine Star
October 15, 2007

Preseason favorite Magnolia lived up to its stellar billing in the opener of the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup last night, blasting Air21, 121-112, before a near sellout crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.

Struggling early on, the Beverage Masters came alive in the second half, stemming the tide in their favor and going on to complete a triumphant start in the tourney where they finished second to the Barangay Ginebra Kings last year.

Danny Seigle scored a team-high 28 points while Enrico Villanueva made 20 points and 15 rebounds with four other Beverage Masters contributing 11 points or more as the team redeemed itself from three losses at the hands of the Express in the recent Fiesta Cup.

The Beverage Masters made a chase in the third quarter and pulled away in the payoff period, negating Niño Canaleta's career-high 32-point output.

Arwind Santos and Wynne Arboleda also scored in double figures for the Express in the high-scoring game. It was actually the highest-scoring season-opening game since 1992 when Presto whipped Swift, 120-118.

"Right now the team is still sloppy. Hopefully we get better soon," said coach Siot Tanquingcen of his talent-laden lineup firmed up further by their acquisition of former Red Bull stalwarts Villanueva, Lordy Tugade and Larry Fonacier.

The three ex-Bulls played key roles in the Beverage Masters' second-half siege highlighted by Fonacier's seven-point binge that gave Magnolia a 112-95 lead with a little over four minutes left to play.

Fonacier, acquired by the team in exchange for Kiko Adriano, hit back-to-back triples off Santos with the second one with a foul to boot. He completed the rare four-point play and finished with 11 points, four rebounds and two assists in his first game with Magnolia.

But the Beverage Masters struggled early on in the face of the Express' pressing defense.

"It's hard to break Air21's press because they have a wingman rotation with long wings. Mga 6-4s lang sila pero yung wingspan pang 6-6," said Tanquingcen.

referring to Santos, Canatela and JC Intal.

"They also shot the lights out at us at the start. They were shooting treys and also hurting us in transition. It's hard to stop them because they're athletic. I think they're the most athletic team in the league," Tanquingcen added.

Showing tremendous confidence coming off stints with the RP team in the SEABA championship and the Jones Cup, Canaleta produced big numbers right in the first half, going 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and 4-of-6 from the two-point area.

Also drawing boost from Arwind Santos, the Express took control in the first half, enjoying a 32-25 lead in the opening period before settling for a 56-52 margin at halftime.

Curiously, both teams shot 51.2 percent from the field in the first 24 minutes of play.

The Scores:

First Game
Magnolia 121 - Seigle 28, Villanueva, R. 20, Hontiveros 15, Fonacier 11, Tugade 11, Ildefonso 11, Tenorio 9, Racela 8, Eman 5, Gonzales 3, Wilson 0.

Air21 112 - Canaleta 32, Santos 21, Arboleda 15, Dimaunahan 9, Se 8, Cruz 7, Sotto 6, Intal 5, de Ocampo 4, Kramer 3, Baluyot 2, Chia 0.

Quarterscores: 25-32, 52-56, 86-81, 121-112.

SEIGLE-HONTIVEROS EXPLOSION!!!

2007-10-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

SEIGLE, HONTIVEROS SHINE AS MAGNOLIA TAKES OPENER

Faster-paced ballgame leads to highest-scoring season curtainraiser since ‘92

Sunday, 14 October 2007

Dondon Hontiveros picked up his offensive rhythm in the third quarter and the Magnolia Beverage Masters took the cue to mount a second half charge that keyed a 121-112 victory over the Air21 Express Sunday night in the opener of the 2007-08 Smart PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Hontiveros, cold as ice in the first half with only two points, drove the Express crazy in the third that saw him scattering 12 points on 4-for-4 shooting from the perimeter and 4-of-5 from the stripe.

His explosion practically changed the complication of the game and put an end to the Beverage Masters' three-game losing spell at the hands of the Express last conference.

Hontiveros, who missed the entire 2007 Fiesta Conference along with Danny Seigle to serve the RP Team, finished with 15 points. He tied the game at 67 midway in the third with two free throws, then completed a three-point play 13 seconds later as Magnolia took the lead for good at 70-69.

"The basics are all there but when the going gets tough we can always count on Danny Ildefonso, Danny Seigle and Dondon Hontiveros,” said Magnolia coach Siot Tanquingcen of their second half surge.

"We had to deal with it. We have to play the way the refs call it. Everybody's playing with the same set of rules anyway," offered Tanquingcen when asked to comment on the new rules implemented by the league this season.

The implementation of the new rules quickened the flow of the game, and the big opening day crowd lapped up every moment of the action-packed encounter.

It also opened a lot of offensive opportunities for both teams and the result was a high-scoring curtainraiser that featured a combined 17 triples and 30 fast break attempts and nearly 50 percent shooting from both teams.

The league's highest scoring opener was established in 1992 when Presto defeated Swift, 120-118.

Seigle scored 28 points on 10-of-16 shooting and Enrico Villanueva had 21 points for Magnolia, which had six players scoring in double digits.

Larry Fonacier, Lordy Tugade and Ildefonso each had 11 points for the Beverage Masters who shot 48 percent from the field.

Ervin Sotto pulled the Express within 89-93 early in the fourth quarter but Magnolia quickly countered with a 10-0 run to ripped the game apart.

Air21 actually dictated the tempo in the first half due largely to the 3-point shooting of Nino Canaleta and Aris Dimaunahan, who both went 3-for-4 from the trifecta zone.

Their tireless effort to run the court also paid handsomely for the Express, who enjoyed a 56-52 lead at halftime.

But things turned sour for Air21 in the third quarter as the Express began missing from the field and eventually drowned in a series of turnovers.

Canaleta led all scorers with 32 points and Arwind Santos added 21 points for the Express, who committed 20 turnovers. (DBC)

The scores:

Magnolia 121 - Seigle 28, Villanueva, R. 20, Hontiveros 15, Fonacier 11, Tugade 11, Ildefonso 11, Tenorio 9, Racela 8, Eman 5, Gonzales 3, Wilson 0.

Air21 112 - Canaleta 32, Santos 21, Arboleda 15, Dimaunahan 9, Se 8, Cruz 7, Sotto 6, Intal 5, de Ocampo 4, Kramer 3, Baluyot 2, Chia 0.

Quarters: 25-32, 52-56, 86-81, 121-112.

SEIGLE-MAMARIL

2007-10-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

SEIGLE FINED P10,000 FOR TUNEUP GAME SCUFFLE

Mamaril escapes sanctions

Wednesday, 10 October 2007

Danny Seigle is one of the Philippine Basketball Association's Mr. Nice Guys. In his first eight years with the league, the Magnolia superstar has never been known to involve himself in player fights. He’d rather let his scoring do the damage.

But as the saying goes:" There's always a first for everything."

With only four days before Asia's first-play-for-pay league opens its 33^rd season, PBA Officer-in-Charge Sonny Barrios meted Seigle a P10,000 fine for throwing at least three punches to Barangay Ginebra's energetic forward Billy Mamaril during their teams’ tuneup game last Wednesday at the Green Meadows gym.

The scuffle was witnessed by PBA technical chief Perry Martinez, who was around to brief the teams on the new rules.

Since both teams had the game taped, the Office of the Commissioner requested a copy of it for review.

During the review of the gametape, a portion showed that after excessive physical jostling and some exchange of elbows inside the paint, the sweet-shooting Seigle, without any provocation, threw at least three punches on the startled Mamaril.

"If not for the intervention of cooler heads and the inability of Mamaril to counteract Seigle's punches, the incident would have gotten worse," Barrios said.

Barrios said the offense would easily draw a stiffer fine and a suspension under the rules had the incident taken place in a regular PBA game.

"Since that infraction occurred during a practice game and not sanctioned by the league, we shall not apply the usual rules," Barrios told Seigle.

The league OIC spared Mamaril of any penalty since the Ginebra forward didn't engage with Seigle during the commotion.

Seigle, who missed the entire Fiesta Conference while rendering his services to the RP Team, will make his debut on Sunday as the Magnolia Beverage Masters battle the Air21 Express in the lone encounter scheduled at 6:30 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum. (DBC)

Winning Tradition

2007-10-10T00:45:00.001-07:00

Magnolia Masters to carry on SMB winning tradition

By NELSON BELTRAN
The Philippine Star

From San Miguel Beermen to Magnolia Beverage Masters.

SMC’s flagship ball club carries a new name in the coming season, hoping to draw younger set of fans and renew its bond with loyal followers as it seeks to keep its winning tradition in the country’s premier pro league.

“We believe that our Magnolia beverages will benefit from the enormous exposure from the PBA just like San Miguel Beer and other SMC premium brands,” said San Miguel Beverages Inc. (SMBI) president Roberto Huang in a simple ceremony held at the SMC Complex in Mandaluyong Wednesday.

SMBI general manager for domestic operation Bernie Marquez, team manager Hector Calma, head coach Bethune Tanquingcen and the players also graced the occasion and expressed their excitement over the coming season where they’re billed as among the top favorites for the championship.

“We expect the Magnolia Beverage Masters to carry on the winning tradition of the San Miguel Beer team. And being the SMC’s flag carrier, we hope it delivers the message to our consumers that SMC will always produce good quality and affordable products for the years to come,” said Marquez.

Veteran mainstays Olsen Racela and Danny Seigle said they want to win the championship and, as among the favorites, they’re not afraid to face pressures and challenges.

Tanquingcen’s squad has become top pick in the coming season as they kept the core of their 2006-07 team reinforced by the return of national players Seigle and Dondon Hontiveros and the arrival of new recruits Larry Fonacier, Samigue Eman and Jonas Villanueva.

“I can’t deny that we’ve got a team loaded with talents. We’re strong on paper but you can’t win the championship on paper alone. We have to translate that strength on the playing court,” said Tanquingcen, cautioning everybody not to be overconfident. The youthful mentor is looking to develop the team into a complete package with a solid inside game boosted by good outside shooting, saying tough challenges await them in the season starting Oct. 14 at the Araneta Coliseum.

Tanquingcen considers Talk N' Text, Alaska Milk, Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull as their tough rivals.

“Talk N' Text and Alaska will be up there this season. Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull are teams that you can’t count out in any season,” said Tanquingcen, now the team’s official head coach with Chot Reyes given time to rest following his stint with the RP team.

`The team still has the core of Racela, Seigle, Ildefonso, Dondon Hontiveros, Enrico Villanueva, LA Tenorio, Chris Calaguio, Lordy Tugade, Willie Wilson and Gabby Espinas.

A strong team just got stronger

2007-10-09T23:39:00.001-07:00

A strong team just got stronger
By Reuel Vidal, Manila Standard Today
October 10, 2007

What's in a name?

Newly christened Magnolia Beverage Masters, formerly the San Miguel Beermen, know that not much has changed but their moniker.

The team still boast of an already potent lineup of Danny Ildefonso, Enrico Villanueva, Lordy Tugade, Willy Wilson, Gabby Espinas, LA Tenorio, Wesley Gonzales, Olsen Racela, Chris Calaguio and Dorian Peña.

Plus they will be bolstered by former national team members Dondon Hontiveros and Danny Seigle. They will also get outstanding rookies Samigue Eman and Jonas Villanueva.

Finally, another former Ateneo Blue Eagle in Larry Fonacier will join the team via Red Bull.

Magnolia coach Siot Tanquincen, who took over the reins from Chot Reyes just last conference downplayed his team's chances.

"The team has potential," said Tanquincen. "We've strengthened our weaknesses and our players have worked hard. Hopefully, we'll be ready."

Other Philippine Basketball Association coaches, including Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants coach Ryan Gregorio, are more openly enthusiastic about the team's potential. Gregorio has come out to say that Magnolia will be one of the teams to beat this coming Philippine Cup.

"Magnolia is a super team," said Gregorio. "It has a talented roster of 15 players, all starter material for the other teams. To me, they're up there with Talk N Text, Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk completing the big four."

The biggest concern for Magnolia will be teamwork and cohesion, according to Gregorio.

"Ang problema lang nila sa ngayon eh nagkakapaan pa sila on the entry of new players. 'Yung ibang teams, medyo may chemistry na dahil mas maaga kami nagsimulang mag-training," Gregorio said.

Magnolia Beverage Masters

2007-10-09T23:29:00.001-07:00

NEW NAME, FEARSOME CAST JUST THE SAME FOR MAGNOLIA

Beverage Masters have job to finish this season

Gone: Francis Adriano, Brandon Cablay

Gain: Larry Fonacier, Samigue Eman, Jonas Villanueva

Mainstays: Danny Ildefonso, Enrico Villanueva, Dondon Hontiveros, Danny Seigle, Lordy Tugade, Willy Wilson, Gabby Espinas, LA Tenorio, Wesley Gonzales, Olsen Racela, Chris Calaguio, Dorian Pena.

San Miguel overachieved and surpassed expectations of many following its amazing run all the way to the semifinals of the PBA Fiesta Conference last season.

Afterall, the team – which will be carrying the Magnolia colors this season – started the conference with a 0-6 record, had to work with a new coach and face the challenges without their top two stars.

By this time, the Beverage Masters must have fully adjusted with the system of Siot Tanquingcen, and with Danny Seigle and Dondon Hontiveros back on the team's regular rotation, Magnolia just got even more frightening and dangerous.

Tanquingcen, who took over the reins from Chot Reyes, maintains the Beverage Masters are still a work in progress although he expects the team to get better as the season-opening Smart Philippine Cup begins on October 14.

"We're still at the conditioning stage," said Tanquingcen, chief architect of Barangay Ginebra's back-to-back title runs in 2004-05.

"But we see the potential of this team with the addition of some help in our backcourt and wing spots."

Help refers to 2005 Rookie of the Year Larry Fonacier and rookies Samigue Eman and Jonas Villanueva.

The 6-foot-3 Fonacier was easily Magnolia's biggest acquisition in the off-season via a trade with Red Bull in exchange for guards Brandon Cablay and Francis Adriano. The deal that caught many by surprise enabled the sweet shooting Fonacier to rejoin former Ateneo teammates Enrico Villanueva, Wesley Gonzales and LA Tenorio.

Villanueva, a crafty former Far Eastern University guard with a good eye from the perimeter, was drafted 9^th overall by the team as a third option at the point guard spot behind veteran Olsen Racela and Tenorio.

"Jonas will definitely learn a lot from Olsen. He's lucky that Olsen is still playing because he will have a chance to develop his skills under the guidance of one of the best point guards in the league," Tanquingcen said.

Magnolia made the 25-year-old Eman the second overall pick in this year's Draft and the Beverage Masters will surely be needing more of him inside the paint with veteran big man Dorian Pena out for most of the conference with an injury.

"I see a lot of potential in him," said the Magnolia mentor of the 6-foot-9, wide-bodied ex-Mindanao State University star. "He's a big guy with good moves."

Tanquingcen expects their three new acquisitions to blend in time with a core that will have a healthy Danny Ildefonso and Lordy Tugade, the ever improving Gonzales – who impressed many in the last conference – and a more settled Rico Villanueva.

But the best thing that happened to Magnolia is the return of Seigle and Hontiveros, who missed the entire Fiesta Conference to serve the RP men's basketball squad that participated in the Olympic qualifying FIBA-Asia Men's championship in Tokushima, Japan.

The Beverage Masters settled for runner-up honors behind eventual champion Barangay Ginebra Kings in last year's Philippine Cup, blowing away a 2-0 headstart in the best-of-seven title series.

But returning with an even more formidable cast this time, it wouldn't be a big surprise if they end up completing their unfinished job a season ago.

Source:http://www.pba.ph/content/view/1799/59/

Samigue Eman

2007-10-09T23:24:00.000-07:00

BDate		Position	Center
BPlace	Mindanao	College	Mindanao
Height	6'10"	Weight	252
Team	San Miguel

Career Transactions
#2 overall pick ny San Miiguel in 2007

Jonas Villanueva

2007-10-09T23:23:00.000-07:00

BDate	March 31, 1983	Position	Guard
BPlace	Bulacan	College	Far Eastern
Height	6'0"	Weight	180
Team	San Miguel

Career Transactions
#9 overall pick ny San Miiguel in 2007

Samboy Lim

2007-10-09T23:07:00.001-07:00

SAMBOY LIM – “The Dragon”, “The Skywalker”

The Original Ninja, trained to fly and cruise to the basket packed with an incredible skill, Lim could have been one of the best players to ever play in the PBA had not for his injuries. Regardless though, his name has been a fixture and his skill is greatly idolized by basketball hopefuls of all ages.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Hector Calma

2007-10-09T23:06:00.004-07:00

HECTOR CALMA – “The Director”

Listed as one of the best pointguards to ever grace Philippine Basketball, the former Adamson Falcon was not a scorer and had limited strengths concerning the offensive area but he has the ability to make his teammates good and lead them to championships. From the time Northern Consolidated defeated every international team thrown at their faces to the ballin’ SMB Grand Slam stint, the Director was the ringmaster of sorts.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Ramon Fernandez

2007-10-09T23:06:00.003-07:00

RAMON FERNANDEZ – “El Presidente”

Don Ramon entered the team via trade for Abet Guidaben. Playing in the twilight of his career, he understood he is not strong enough unlike the old days and yet, he took his fourth MVP award in strong fashion. He ended his career playing sparingly but despite his short tenure as a Beermen, the team acknowledged his status as the franchise retired his jersey.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Ato Agustin

2007-10-09T23:06:00.001-07:00

ATO AGUSTIN – “The Atom Bomb”

A former second round pick, injuries to Calma, Lim, and Pumaren paved the way for a new star in Beerlandia. Agustin picked up the slack even with the return of their big players. Agustin helped the team earn a grand slam and he even won MVP honors in 1992.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Manny Paner

2007-10-09T23:05:00.003-07:00

MANNY PANER – “The Original King Beerman”

Playing for the San Miguel Braves in the MICAA, Paner was their dominant torchbearer and his presence would spark doom to his foes. When the Braves entered the PBA as Royal Tru-Orange, he remained with the team and almost won the MVP plum in a Toyota-Crispa ruled season. He then moved out of SMC but his dominance is forever remembered by the SMC community.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Allan Caidic

2007-10-09T23:05:00.001-07:00

ALLAN CAIDIC – “The Triggerman”

When Presto disbanded, it was definite that Caidic would don the Beerman jersey. Reuniting with his NCC teammates, the former UE Warrior would form part of the colossal shooting combo known as ABC or 3A (Agustin, Bong Alvarez, Caidic). Since then he has been a fixture in the SMC Management either as coach or manager or a touring player.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Ricky Brown

2007-10-09T23:04:00.002-07:00

RICKY BROWN – “The Quick Brown Fox”

After his long tenure in Great Taste, Brown headed to SMB. Leaving the team before it gained a grand slam, Brown’s relentless ability to deliver baskets made him one of the best players in that era.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Abet Guidaben

2007-10-09T23:04:00.001-07:00

ABET GUIDABEN – “The Pioneer”

When the SMC Franchise returned to the PBA after a two year hiatus, they were happy to land Guidaben to their team. Turns out, Guidaben would serve as the initial guiding light for a team bannered mostly by amateurs coming for the NCC. Years later after winning an MVP, Guidaben would be shipped to Purefoods for playing coach Ramon Fernandez.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Nelson Asaytono

2007-10-09T23:03:00.003-07:00

NELSON ASAYTONO – “The Bull”

Twice in his career the Bull almost won MVP honors. During his stint as a Beerman, the Bull was the lone scoring threat and in a span of a conference he almost cored 30 points a game. Ildefonso’s entry served as his downfall but his stint as a Beerman proved remarkable.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Yoyong Martirez

2007-10-09T23:03:00.001-07:00

YOYONG MARTIREZ – “Swipe Star”

While most of us know Yoyong as the bumbling sidekick of Vic Sotto in his movies, the bald comedian was an able quarterback for the San Miguel Braves and had the longest tenure spanning from the 70’s to the early 80’s. He was voted alongside Paner as one of the Top 15 players of the PBA before the start of the 1985 season.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Yvez Dignadice

2007-10-09T23:02:00.001-07:00

YVES DIGNADICE – “El Stampita”

Remember the guy that wears number 12 with a tight religious necklace wrapped in his neck? He had the skills to stop the likes of Jerry Codinera during the peak of his career. Dignadice could have developed a decent will to score and his injuries limit his star to rise but nonetheless, the contributions he exalted for the Beermen is highly noted.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Alvin Teng

2007-10-09T23:01:00.004-07:00

ALVIN TENG – “The Robocop”

Teng enjoyed a grand SMB stint as Ramon Fernandez’ backup. The gangly slotman is a multi-titled defensive player and his presence proved vital to the grand slam run. He was dealt to the Mobiline franchise for Victor Pablo where he became the team’s star player.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Franz Pumaren

2007-10-09T23:01:00.003-07:00

FRANZ PUMAREN – “Prized backup”

Coming from a rich basketball background, Pumaren was the chief backup of Calma during the amateur and the grand slam days. Unloading those vicious triple bombs dealt to destroy their foes’ confidence, he was also an efficient dish man with a great deal of basketball sense. That alone can be reason on how successful his coaching stint has been.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Freddie Abuda

2007-10-09T23:01:00.001-07:00

FREDDIE ABUDA – “The Scavenger”

A former second round pick of Purefoods, the reed thin forward was considered a pro league goner until the Racela/Abuda – Ravena/Frankie Lim trade saved him. He blossomed under Ron Jacobs and he made his living by taking all loose balls, playing serious defense on imports and defenders and doing the little things superstars will never do. He will become a fixture in the ballclub until he was displaced by Nic Belasco.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Paul Alvarez

2007-10-09T23:00:00.002-07:00

PAUL ALVAREZ – “Mr. Excitement”

He draws crowds with his exciting brand of basketball. Acquired from Shell for Victor Pablo, Alvarez provided the energy lost when Samboy succumbed to injury. Rubbing his high-flying style to his teammates, the Beermen rivaled Ginebra as one of the league’s exciting teams. The bad side for him was his failure to play in the system of Ron Jacobs.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Estoy Estrada

2007-10-09T23:00:00.001-07:00

ESTOY ESTRADA – “Baston Bandito”

The gangly forward formed a dreaded triumvirate alongside Paner and Martirez during the early years of the franchise. He would end up as a Toyota Corolla at the end of the 70’s but you can’t really ask from this guy as far as defense is concern.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Nic Belasco

2007-10-09T22:59:00.003-07:00

NIC BELASCO – “Good Old St. Nick”

Coming in after the trade that sent Asaytono back to the RFM Franchise, Belasco was then just a lanky defensive stopper. He transformed under Uichico’s tutelage and he became the chief stopper with an excellent arsenal to shoot outside. His emergence was the reason why reliable Freddie Abuda was let go by the franchise, enabling them to get Hontiveros.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Emmanuel Victoria

2007-10-09T22:59:00.001-07:00

EMMANUEL VICTORIA – “Boybits”

When the former Rookie of the Year chose to play for the Beermen despite being in the prime of his career, many thought it was career suicide. It was actually – since Olsen Racela then was enjoying his rule as the top guard of the country. However, during times of need Victoria would have career-highlighting nights despite his limited minutes. Despite his youth, he opted to hang his wares and join the SMC coaching staff.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Art Dela Cruz

2007-10-09T22:58:00.001-07:00

ART DELA CRUZ – “Import Stopper”

During the olden days, a defensive stopper had not much say in scoring. Dela Cruz was that kind of person but what he can’t get in terms of offensive touches, he takes exception in bringing scoring droughts and inflicting shoving matches with imports and top scorers. Remember the Art dela Cruz versus Poch Juinio scuffle? That was one of his classics.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Alfie Almario

2007-10-09T22:57:00.004-07:00

ALFIE ALMARIO – “Double A”

It’s hard to see what the late Alfie Almario did in San Miguel except for the fact that he was a cog in their Grand Slam run. If you saw the first Maxim Issue, his name was mentioned as a guy with talent that never got his game in the PBA because of injuries. But while he was lacking in game, he pursued to provide the leadership, which amounted to championships.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Dwight Lago

2007-10-09T22:57:00.003-07:00

DWIGHT LAGO – “3 Pointing Menace”

Lago, picked fourth in the 1993 Draft has been shipped to 5 different teams before being acquired by the Beermen. A post up shooting forward back in his UAAP days, he began to make a name for himself with his nonchalant but accurate shots from the outside. He once led the league in 3-point percentage. After his efficient play, he quietly left the league to go back to the States.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Mike Mustre

2007-10-09T22:56:00.000-07:00

MIKE MUSTRE – “That’s My Michael”

As the fourth off guard off the bench, Mustre had no chance in edging out Caidic, Lim, Agustin, and Alvarez from their spots but when they were sidelined by injuries, Mustre made the most of his luck by playing his best, actually landing a Mythical Second Team citation in that season. This feat proved short-lived as the next season, Danny Seigle eased him out of the spotlight.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Joey Mente

2007-10-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

JOEY MENTE – “Slam Dunk King”

Picked tenth in the 2001 Draft comprised of mostly MBA veterans, little known Mente’s chances was bleak. The former Iloilo Megavolt persevered though, as he slowly crept his way to the main core. His talent though is best recognized as a great one-on-one player and a souring leaper – winning the Slam Dunk title despite his obvious lack of size.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Bong Ravena

2007-10-09T22:53:00.000-07:00

BONG RAVENA – “The Cosmic Avenger”

He played in the SMB Squad resting its laurels from a grand slam feat. It was hard for the Raven to get a secure spot. Nonetheless, whenever he gets off the bench, he presides with instant offense. And despite the stellar play of Vergel Meneses, not playing for a title-contending team soured his chances of claiming Rookie of the Year honors as Ravena took it out of his cudgels.

http://hoops.blink.ph/2007/07/24/sydman%E2%80%99s-side-defect-san-miguel-30/

Gabby Espinas

2007-10-09T18:22:00.000-07:00

Position:	Forward
Jersey Number:	2
Birthdate:	01/03/1982
Birthplace:	Olongapo City
Height (ft.in.):	6'4"
Weight(lbs.):	191

Looking to solve the problem in rebounds and fastbreak points, this 6-4 mobile forward could be what the doctor ordered for the Beermen. Gifted with a long wing span, Espinas is known to be a demon in rebounding while playing for Philippine Christian University in the NCAA and Hapee in the PBL.

The Olongapo City-born forward also has the quickness that you hardly see in a big man. He runs the floor pretty well and can finish the fastbreak plays with consistency. Espinas averaged 10.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1 block per game in the last PBL tournament.

My Impression
A great shot blocker. He is also a great rebounder. Some were confused on the real position of Espinas for the team. He can defend and rebound. A more playing time will definitely show up this guy's potential. (He is also a ROY and MVP during his amateur days)

Enrico Villanueva

2007-10-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

Position:	Center-Forward
Jersey Number:	14
Birthdate:	06/23/1980
Birthplace:	Pasay City
Height (ft.in.):	6'5"
Weight(lbs.):	210

As his career progresses in the league, the burly 6-5 center is getting better every year. After snaring the Most Improved Player award in his sophomore year, he was the MVP of the Fiesta Conference and earned a spot in the Mythical Five to cement his star status in the league.

Villanueva averaged 12.9 points and 8 rebounds in 67 games last season and his 1.3 blocks a night was fourth-best among locals. The 26-year-old banger had the highest average in minutes played with 30.4 per game, a proof that coach Yeng Guiao trusted this former Ateneo de Manila University standout. He just needs to work on his free throw shooting as he recorded an awful 53.3 percent clip (178-of-334).

Acquired from Red Bull

My Impression
Many SMB fans will surely put away their hatred with this man and take him as a part of the improved MBM. He will help a lot this time due to the absense of Dorian Pena. I don't know if he will the Raging Beermen this time.

Larry Fonacier

2007-10-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

Position:	Guard
Jersey Number:	12
Birthdate:	05/13/1982
Birthplace:	Quezon City
Height (ft.in.):	6'3"
Weight(lbs.):	170

The gamble paid off for the Barakos when they took him in the second round of the 2005 Draft. No one expected Fonacier to contribute right away especially since the 6’3 shooting guard came from a dreaded ACL injury.

But sheer determination and dedication brought his confidence back, helping Red Bull to two Finals stints last year where he was rewarded the Rookie of the Year. Fonacier played 65 games and averaged 8.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He ranked third in free throw shooting with 80.9 percent accuracy, the only rookie in the top 5 of that category.

Acquired from Red Bull.

My Impression
This man boosts up the already loaded MBM. He is a sharp shooter from the outside and he can take advantage from his height.

Willie Wilson

2007-10-09T16:43:00.001-07:00

Position:	Forward
Jersey Number:	27
Birthdate:	01/30/1980
Birthplace:	Los Angeles, CA
Height (ft.in.):	6'2"
Weight(lbs.):	215

Maybe coach Chot Reyes saw something in him that he immediately signed him up weeks before the season started. And Wilson was a revelation in the Pre-Season Tournament when he barged in double figures in scoring a couple of times.

The burly 6-2 Fil-Am guard spent his first two seasons with Alaska and spent most of his time in the bench. Last season, the former La Salle stalwart played 36 games on 10.1 minutes per outing. He averaged just 3.0 points and 2.0 rebounds per game but had been productive every time he was fielded in.

My Impression
MBM's "Mr. Everywhere". Wilson has proven his worth last conference when he was tasked to defend opponent's key players. He is a good defender. He is also often understimated by other teams, he's always left unattended thus giving him a chance to contribute not only in defense but also in points. I remember the time when he was the Best Player of the game to one of SMB's out of town game last conference. He got his career high 16 points. Nonetheless, he's a good player.

LA Tenorio

2007-10-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

Position:	Guard
Jersey Number:	6
Birthdate:	07/09/1984
Birthplace:	Quezon City
Height (ft.in.):	5'8"
Weight(lbs.):	151

It’s no secret San Miguel had been despearately looking for a court general who could be Olsen Racela’s understudy. And what better understudy can one get than LA Tenorio, whom the Beermen quickly tabbed No. 4 overall in the 2006 Draft.

Tenorio had successful years with Ateneo in the UAAP and was one of the key players in Harbour Center’s conquest of the PBL Unity Cup title where he was named the Finals MVP. He averaged 11.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game in that tournament. Coach Chot Reyes said that Tenorio, he with the fantastic court vision and the eye from three-point range, will get his minutes in the All-Filipino tournament due to the injury of Brandon Cablay, the primary back-up guard in the team.

My Impression
Basketball is not only for big men but also for small ones with a big heart. One of the PBA's [notable guards. He played like a veteran during his first year at the league. I remember their game with Red Bull wherein he outplayed one of their opponent's big man. LA Tenorio will definitely mark a big name. A small player with a giant heart.

Dorian Peña

2007-10-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

Position:	Center
Jersey Number:	4
Birthdate:	10/12/1977
Birthplace:	Cheverly, Maryland, USA
Height (ft.in.):	6'6"
Weight(lbs.):	235

A Mythical Five member in the 2004-05 season, the 6-6 slotman was relegated to the Second Team the following year.

In the last two years, Pena has become one of the most dependable big men in the league. He was one of the only three locals to average in double-double last season, the other two being Eric Menk and Asi Taulava, both former Most Valuable Player winners.

Pena averaged a career-best 13.2 points and 11.5 boards per game last season and is now clearly one of the most consistent players not only for the Beermen, but also in the PBA.

My Impresion»
One of the few players who can make a gold out of garbages. He often get his point from an offensive rebound for any missed shot. This makes MBM a deadly opponent. Shooters of MBM will not hesitate to to shoot the ball knowing that the "Junkyard Dawg" is there to wait for a gold out of a grabage.

SMB Fanatikoz Official Fansite

Aces, Beermen eye 3-1 cushion

BEERMEN CONTINUE WITH WINNING WAYS, RIP BARAKO BULL

SMB WALLOPS PUREFOODS, STAYS ON TOP

SMB’S FUTURE AT THE BACKCOURT EMERGES

BEERMEN BRING BURGER KING BACK TO EARTH

TNT BEATS SMB IN GAME 6 OT THRILLER TO ADVANCE TO FINALS

Exciting face-offs

King of Beermen shames Gin Kings

No reprieve for Racela

San Miguel beats Coke the hard way

PBA Pre-Season Tournament: Washington leads SMB past Bulls

Beermen debut versus tall Qataris

SanMig back with revitalized lineup

SMB inks J-Wash to P10M deal; rookie Bonbon signed too

Big man Pennisi brings shooting touch to SMB 5

Bleeding over for Pals; 'Masters' survive Tigers

'Masters' extend Realtors' woes; Express nip Pals

Tigers regain share of lead; Dragons torch Pals

Coke repulses Magnolia, catches Red Bull at helm

MAGNOLIA HALTS RED BULL RUN ON THE ROAD

Ginebra Remains Winless

SEIGLE CONTINUES TO CONQUER PAIN

AIR21 HANDS COKE FIRST DEFEAT; MAGNOLIA BEATS PHONEPALS

RICE LIFTS PUREFOODS PAST MAGNOLIA AFTER 2 OTs

New players plug Magnolia's holes

New players plug Magnolia's holes

by Roy LuarcaSource: INQUIRER.net | April 2, 2008

ADDUCUL’S ILLNESS LEADS TO BIG 4-TEAM DEAL

TESTED VET FOR MAGNOLIA, BIG-TIME SCORER FOR PUREFOODS

POWERHOUSE FALLS Red Bull boots out Magnolia

RED BULL ASSERTS MASTERY OVER MAGNOLIA

Ex-Bulls to haunt old team?

Ex-Bulls to haunt old team?

by Joaquin M. Henson, "Sporting Chance"Source: The Philippine Star | January 23, 2008

Still Alive

No simple pleasures for Welcoat

No simple pleasures for Welcoat

Fired-up Sta. Lucia melts Magnolia, 99-77

Fired-up Sta. Lucia melts Magnolia, 99-77

MAGNOLIA OUTSHOOTS AIR21, KEEPS ALIVE OUTRIGHT SEMIS BID

MAGNOLIA STOPS SKID, OUTPACES ALASKA IN CDO

Air21 acquires Espinas

Air21 acquires Espinas

by June NavarroSource: INQUIRER.net | December 19, 2007

Brgy. Ginebra Clobbers Magnolia

Brgy. Ginebra Clobbers Magnolia

FROM CELLAR-DWELLER TO LEAGUE’S HOTTEST TEAM

PENNISI STARS IN RED BULL CONQUEST OF MAGNOLIA IN CAVITE

Tugade drains 3 at buzzer as Magnolia squeaks past TNT

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK AT PUREFOODS WITH ONE-SIDED ROUT

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

RED BULL BLASTS MAGNOLIA, MOVES UP TO 2ND

ODDSBREAKER

TUGADE’S CAREER-HIGH 34 LIFTS MAGNOLIA PAST GINEBRA

TUGADE’S CAREER-HIGH 34 LIFTS MAGNOLIA PAST GINEBRA

WELCOAT COMPLETES 1ST BACK-TO-BACK WINS IN PBA

WELCOAT COMPLETES 1ST BACK-TO-BACK WINS IN PBA

ROOKIE BIG MAN EMAN SHOWS STUFF HE’S MADE OF

HOT AND COLD TALK ‘N TEXT SUBDUES MAGNOLIA IN MUNTINLUPA

Tugade powers Magnolia over Coke

GAME SCHEDULES

Tugade rescues Magnolia, Beats Coca-Cola

Tugade rescues Magnolia, Beats Coca-Cola

MAGNOLIA GETS BACK ON TRACK WITH WIN OVER COKE

Purefoods Downs Powerhouse Magnolia, Grabs Solo Lead

Purefoods Downs Powerhouse Magnolia, Grabs Solo Lead

Hontiveros Gets Hot, Magnolia 2-0

Magnolia vs Coca Cola

Magnolia vs Sta Lucia

Magnolia vs Purefoods

Strong Debut

GAME RESULTS

MBM vs AIR21 in the OPENER

SEIGLE-HONTIVEROS EXPLOSION!!!

SEIGLE-MAMARIL

Winning Tradition

A strong team just got stronger

Magnolia Beverage Masters

by Roy Luarca
Source: INQUIRER.net | April 2, 2008

by Joaquin M. Henson, "Sporting Chance"
Source: The Philippine Star | January 23, 2008

by June Navarro
Source: INQUIRER.net | December 19, 2007