The UAAP Season 76 Preview - Phase 2

Here we go with my thoughts on the upcoming UAAP teams, segmented into the eight schools. Part 1 involves the schools who played on opening day. This is Part 2, which will involve the schools playing later today.

5. Adamson University

Projected rotation (Clutch five in bold): Rodney Brondial, Roider Cabrera, Jericho Cruz, Axel Inigo, Ryan Monteclaro, Harry Petilos, Jansen Rios, Ingrid Sewa

Last season's flight was aborted due to Alex Nuyles' injury. That pretty much meant they spent last season preparing for this season. Now as hosts, Leo Austria will look at Jericho Cruz to carry the offensive load and burden. This after you saw in the opening yesterday how former Falcon legends Hector Calma and Kenneth Duremdes hand Jericho the torch. Ingrid Sewa also is around to provide help for Rodney Brondial, but unless his paperwork's aight, he could cost the Falcons wins. Cabrera, Petilos and Rios are there to provide shooting. As for Monteclaro, he has had a year to get accustomed to being the man at the point.

Underrated guy/s to watch: I am really really high on Axel Inigo. How high? I think he can usurp the lead point guard duties from Monteclaro, ala Henry Asilum.

6. University of the Philippines

Projected rotation (clutch five in bold): Henry Asilum, Chris Ball, JR Gallarza, Kyles Lao, Sam Marata, Andre Paras, Martin Pascual, Mikee Reyes, Raul Soyud, Julius Wong

Coming off a 1-13 season, the Fighting Maroons have nowhere to go but up. Adding assets is the name of the game for Ricky Dandan, as freshmen Andre Paras and Kyles Lao, with returnee Mikee Reyes and transferee Sam Marata joining a cast of holdovers that include Henry Asilum and Chris Ball.

Underrated guy/s to watch: With Mark Lopez graduating and Jett Manuel held out for this season, it is important that Mikee be able to help with the quarterbacking chores.

7. National University

Projected rotation (clutch five in bold): Jay Alejandro, Joshua Alolino, Alfred Dong Aroga, Jeff Javillonar, Emmanuel Mbe, Bobby Ray Parks, jr., Robin Rono, Troy Rosario, Dennis Villamor

They fell short last year, when they were the UAAP hosts. This year, with the possibility that Parks might just jump to the draft, the pressure is on Coach E, especially with the Bulldogs falling short against UE in the Premier Cup. They are primed to make a run with the core intact and with the addition of new faces in Alejandro and Aroga (in his case, once his paperwork's fixed).

Underrated guy/s to watch: Alolino and Rono are the veteran guards tasked to handle playmaking responsibilities. Their development is essential for the team if it has finals aspirations.

8. Ateneo de Manila University

Projected rotation (clutch five in bold): Ryan Buenafe, Nico Elorde, Poy Erram, Frank Golla, Chris Newsome, Von Pessumal, Kiefer Ravena, Juami Tiongson, Vince Tolentino

The quest for the sixth straight title might just be its most challenging ever, losing five key cogs (Slaughter, Chua, Salva, Sumalinog and Gonzaga) and Norman Black. Now inserted into the picture is Bo Perasol, and visions of run-and-gun and small ball enter the frame, an offense that would be tailored around Kiefer Ravena and his skill set.

Underrated guy/s to watch: With Tiongson entering his final year, Nico Elorde needs to be ready so that he can take over next season (and sort of be the bridge into the Jerie Pingoy era). Considering size deficiencies, Frank Golla needs to be the big man down low to go against the Mammies, Sewas and Abduls of the UAAP.

Projected win record:

NU - 11-3
Ateneo 9-5
UST - 8-6
UE - 8-6
La Salle 7-7
FEU 6-8
Adamson 4-10
UP 2-12

The UAAP Season 76 Preview - Phase 1

Here we go with my thoughts on the upcoming UAAP teams, segmented into the eight schools. Part 1 involves the schools playing on opening day, which is later today. Part 2 will come out later and will involve the schools playing tomorrow.

1. Far Eastern University

Projected rotation (Clutch 5 in bold): RR Garcia, Terrence Romeo, Mike Tolomia, Roger Pogoy, Reymark Belo, Carl Cruz, Anthony Hargrove, Christian Sentcheu, Gryann Mendoza.

New coach. Same issues. But Nash Racela is hell-bent on installing his system and having RR and TR run the offense. You still have the specter of Anton Montinola somewhere on that bench. They don't really have new faces that can contribute immediately (and one key piece will be missing the season in Russell Escoto), so is the core good enough to make it to the Final Four?

Underrated guy/s to keep tabs on: Carl Cruz. He'll be the best big man on this Tamaraw team. Off the bench, Reymark Belo's ability to play both forward positions will be handy if Nash goes small-ball or if Cruz needs a breather.

2. University of the East

Projected rotation (Clutch 5 in bold): Lord Casajeros, Jai Flores, Chris Javier, Gino Jumao-as, Charles Mammie, JM Noble, Ralf Olivares, Adi Santos, JR Sumido, Roi Sumang

If there is a "League Pass" team in the UAAP, they would be a close second to Ateneo. Boyzie Zamar has gotten these "New Warriors" working hard and going all out against their opposition. Credit them for making the initial exposure of La Salle's woes (ending their winning streak and setting things up for the fall of Gee). The trappings for the run were already prevalent last year, thanks to his arrival after the dismal Jerry Codinera experience. The Filoil Premier Cup championship over NU showed that his efforts are already bearing fruit for the Sumang and Friends.

Underrated guy/s to keep tabs on: Lord Casajeros as a lesser version of Ronald Tubid? Possible, right? He's the perimeter lynchpin but can catch fire, too. Ralf Olivares is Roi's understudy, and he wants to make his only year in the UAAP a memorable one.

3. De La Salle University

Projected rotation (Clutch 5 in bold): Robert Bolick, Jason Perkins, LA Revilla, Gab Reyes, Jeron Teng, Thomas Torres, Norbert Torres, Arnold Van Opstal, Almond Vosotros

After a sizzling start in the Filoil Premier Cup, they fizzled, losing three of its final four matches, including their final round robin match against Ateneo. You may choose to interpret the true meaning of the shuffle to have Gee replaced by Juno Sauler. The preseason allowed fans to get a good glimpse out of Jason Perkins, who beasted down low, and be impressed by Gab Reyes' play. Talented, yes. But are they matured enough? We'll see.

Underrated guy/s to keep tabs on: It's time that Thomas Torres take the reigns as the main playmaker for the Green Archers.

4. University of Santo Tomas

Projected rotation (Clutch 5 in bold): Karim Abdul, Clark Bautista, Ed Daquioag, Kevin Ferrer, Aljon Mariano, Kim Lo, Paulo Pe, Jeric Teng

The core is intact, save for one. And it is a big one. Pido Jarencio rode the heck out of Jeric Fortuna last season, and he delivered for the most part. They'll need someone to stabilize things this season. Ed proved to be adequate compared to the shoot-first Clark and the unimpressive Robin Tan and Jamal Sheriff. Otherwise, the stage is set for a possible return to the finals, with the ATM (Abdul, Teng & Mariano) dispensing points.

Underrated guy/s to keep tabs on: The aforementioned Ed Daquioag.

The Season 75 All-UAAP Team and the Season 76 Preseason Awards

Before the start of the upcoming UAAP season this weekend, it would be a good way to look back at last year.

As what I have done in the past few years, the idea of forming the All-Star team out of the UAAP has always intrigued me. So after the end of Season 75, I devised this 16-man UAAP team (After all, UAAP rosters have a maximum of 16 players). All eight schools have at least one representative (something I took the cue from the Bantay Bata games, back when the UAAP & NCAA had one coveror).

Here goes my picks from last year.

UP - Mike Silungan.
UE - Roi Sumang
Adamson - Jericho Cruz, Eric Camson
FEU - Terrence Romeo, RR Garcia
NU - Bobby Ray Parks, jr., Emmanuel Mbe
La Salle - Norbert Torres, Jeron Teng
UST - Karim Abdul, Jeric Fortuna, Aljon Mariano
Ateneo - Greg Slaughter, Nico Salva, Kiefer Ravena

Starters from that would be: Fortuna, Ravena, Parks, Abdul, Slaughter

Here were my honorable mentions in devising this list:

UP - Mark Lopez, Alvin Padilla, Raul Soyud, Henry Asilum
UE - Gene Belleza, Chris Javier, JR Sumido, Adi Santos
Adamson - Rodney Brondial
FEU - Anthony Hargrove
NU - Jeff Javillonar
La Salle - Yutien Andrada, Arnold Van Opstal, Almond Vosotros
UST - Kevin Ferrer, Jeric Teng
Ateneo - Ryan Buenafe, Juami Tiongson

***

With the UAAP scheduled to begin this weekend, it is appropriate to build the concept of the preseason awards.

Again, this is preseason. Things may change during the course of action, like injuries and rotations issues. Who knows, it could be a completely different group come October.

All-UAAP 1st Team: Bobby Ray Parks, jr. (NU), Kiefer Ravena (Ateneo), Roi Sumang (UE), Karim Abdul (UST), Charles Mammie (UE)

All-UAAP 2nd Team: RR Garcia (FEU) Jericho Cruz (Adamson), Jeron Teng (La Salle), Norbert Torres (La Salle), Aljon Mariano (UST)

All-UAAP 3rd Team: Terrence Romeo (FEU), Jeric Teng (UST), Chris Newsome (Ateneo), Rodney Brondial (Adamson), Emmanuel Mbe (NU)

Honorable Mentions:

Adamson: Roider Cabrera, Ingrid Sewa
Ateneo: Ryan Buenafe, Poy Erram, Frank Golla, Von Pessumal, Juami Tiongson,
La Salle: Jason Perkins, Gab Reyes, Thomas Torres, Arnold Van Opstal, Almond Vosotros
FEU: Carl Cruz, Anthony Hargrove, Mike Tolomia
NU: Alfred Dong Aroga, Troy Rosario
UE: Chris Javier, Adi Santos, JR Sumido
UP: Henry Asilum, Chris Ball, Kyles Lao, Sam Marata
UST: Clark Bautista, Kevin Ferrer

Most Valuable Player: Bobby Ray Parks, jr.

Rookie of the Year (actually is more like the Freshman of the Year)

First things first, time to delineate who are actually eligible for this award:

Adamson: Axel Inigo, Dawn Ochea
Ateneo: Anton Asistio
La Salle: Robert Bolick, Kib Montalbo
FEU: Joshua Aguilon, Jeson Delfinado, Augus Denila, Joel Lee Yu
NU: n/a
UE: Leo Guion
UP: Andres Desiderio, Kyles Lao, Andre Paras
UST: Jeepy Faundo, Jan Macasaet

As such, Kyles Lao is pretty much the clear choice for this award.

All-Freshman Team: Kyles Lao (UP), Robert Bolick (La Salle), Andre Paras (UP), Axel Inigo (Adamson), Dawn Ochea (Adamson)

Newcomer of the Year:

To add to the freshmen above, here are the other UAAP newbies:

Adamson: Matthew Bernabe, Jerome Garcia, Ingrid Sewa
Ateneo: Frank Asuncion, Ivan Enriquez, Peter Murphy, Chris Newsome, Vince Tolentino
La Salle: Jason Perkins, Matt Salem
FEU: Ron Dennison, Jovanie Luz
NU: Rodolfo Alejandro, Alfred Aroga, William Porter
UE: Gino Jumao-as, Charles Mammie, Ralf Olivares, Luis Pujante
UP: Andrew Harris, Jason Ligad, Kyle Suarez
UST: Brian So

Charles Mammie will be my choice to be the newbie of the year.

All-Newcomer 1st Team: Charles Mammie (UE), Ingrid Sewa (Adamson), Jason Perkins (La Salle), Chris Newsome (Ateneo), Alfred Aroga (NU)

All-Newcomer 2nd Team: Rodolfo Alejandro (NU), Ralf Olivares (UE), Vince Tolentino (Ateneo), Kyles Lao (UP), Robert Bolick (La Salle)

Defensive Player of the Year: Charles Mammie (UE)

All-Defensive Team: Charles Mammie (UE), Kevin Ferrer (UST), Chris Newsome (Ateneo), Ingrid Sewa (Adamson), Karim Abdul (UST)

Coach of the Year: Bo Perasol (Ateneo)

UAAP Season 76 BASKETBALL TICKET SELLING GUIDELINES for Ateneo

For Ateneans, here are the guidelines with regards to tickets this upcoming UAAP season for basketball.


Ticket Selling Schedule:

If the game is on Wednesday: Monday, starting 9 am until supplies last
If the game is on Saturday: Wednesday, starting 9 am until supplies last
If the game is on Sunday: Thursday, starting 9 am until supplies last

The University Athletics Office (UAO) has made it known that they will only sell tickets at the Blue Eagle Gym to the following:

1. Alumni of ATENEO DE MANILA UNIVERSITY only.2. Grade school students, parents representing child, faculty and staff.
3. High school students, parents representing child, faculty and staff.
4. Ateneo Professional Schools students, faculty and staff
5. Central Administration Staff

•    Strictly NO PROXY even in the LINE.
•    LOYOLA SCHOOLS students, graduate students, faculty and staff ticket selling will be handled by the COLLEGE ATHLETICS OFFICE
•    Please present the following identification cards prior to purchasing:

* Grade School/High School/ Ateneo Professional Schools student, faculty and staff: Ateneo I.D.
* Grade School/High School parent representing a child: Child’s Ateneo I.D. and your own government-issued I.D.
* Central Administration Staff: Ateneo I.D.
* Alumni of Ateneo de MANILA : Alumni Card or Any government issued I.D.

•    Strictly 2 tickets per person ONLY.

Example
a.     Alumni parent + representing the child = 2 tickets only.
b.     Parent representing 2 or more children = 2 tickets only.


FOR ATENEO-LA SALLE GAMES, FINAL 4, FINALS

1. Please follow selling days as mentioned above. However, starting at 7:00 AM, stubs for the ticket selling will be distributed.

* Proper Identification mentioned above must be provided.
* Same guidelines as above for those who are eligible to line up for the ticket stub distrubtion.

2. Ticket selling will commence at exactly 7:00 PM. Kindly be in your designated seats by 6:00 PM.
•  Strictly NO PROXY.
•  Present your I.D. along with your number.  Please use the same I.D. that you presented to get the number.

3. Other rules mentioned above will apply.

MANAGEMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SALES.

NCAA Season 89: Time to Shine on Aksyon

The 89th Season of the NCAA kicked off yesterday at the Mall of Asia Arena, and it was shown on TV5's news and sports channel Aksyon TV (Ch. 41 on UHF free TV in Manila, Ch. 29 in Cebu and Davao, Skycable's Ch. 59, Destiny Cable's Ch. 78 and Cignal's Ch. 1, as well as on News5Everywhere via www.News5.com.ph), with replays to be shown on HYPER.


The theme for this season is "Our stars will SHINE in 89." According to DLSU-CSB President, Br. Dennis Magbanua, FSC, the theme aims to define the notion of a star as an individual grounded in integrity, honor and humility. The said star would enable others to shine, as well as guide and lead people towards their dreams and aspirations for the good of all.

This is the 2nd year that the NCAA will be shown under the auspices of Sports5, who are working on improving the signal and coverage in order for those in the provinces will be able to watch the channel properly. Games will be shown on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with 4pm and 6pm doubleheaders.

Just like last year, anchoring the coverage for Aksyon TV will be Aaron Atayde, Nikko Ramos and James Velasquez, while forming the pool of analysts are former PBA pros Dominic Uy and Boybits Victoria, current Global Port guard and Letran great Willie Miller, former CSB head coach Richard del Rosario, former San Beda head coach Ronnie Magsanoc, current Meralco head coach Ryan Gregorio and Petron head coach (as of the moment) Olsen Racela. Sideline duties will be handled by Mara Aquino, Rizza Diaz and newly-minted Myx VJ Ai dela Cruz.

The opening game of the men's basketball season began with reigning champions San Beda needing an Art dela Cruz alley-oop to secure a one-point victory over hosts College of Saint Benilde, 71-70. The Red Lions are the clear favorites to defend their title this upcoming season, with new head coach Boyet Fernandez taking the helm.

Completing the doubleheader are losing finalists Letran repulsing San Sebastian, 74-69. Raymond Almazan scored 15 and grabbed 20 rebounds to impose his will down low for Caloy Garcia in his debut game replacing Louie Alas as the Knights' taskmaster.

GAME. SEVEN. And the Greater Scheme of Things.

In professional sports, there is nothing like a Game Seven.

The effort you put in from the start of the offseason training camp, to the grind of the preseason and the 82-game regular season, to the fight to beat attrition that is the postseason, all cascading into this one spectacle.

At least 48 minutes to determine your fate, and for some, their legacy that upon which, would be bloviated upon by the talking heads and the commentweeters in the immediate future, and by history as time passes by.

One game where one miss or one turnover could possibly turn the tide. One game whose luck, if you believe in that, could smile towards you with a bounce, a tip, or even a roll. Numbers never lie, but Coach Spo said so himself:

You can't win this series or the last game with a statistic.  You have to compete and win those battles on the court

This Game 7 was preceded by an all-time classic Game 6, possibly considered as ABC's most watched NBA game since the Disney-owned company reacquired said rights. In the basketball-crazy Motherland, ABS-CBN proclaimed it as the most-watched NBA game ever shown on its channel.

Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals registered the highest ever rating of an NBA game on ABS-CBN

How grand was it? Well, here is the micro-movie:



It has been a blessing to have watched these two teams launch haymaker after haymaker, alternating wins and losses against each other.

From Tony's 23.9 seconds' worth of a working miracle, to LeBron's emphatic rejection. From dialing threes at the AT&T, to the revitalized Big 3. From Manu's rejuvenation to Jesus' redemption.

Does it matter who wins it, really? The better team will come out of this one, for sure.

What matters for me is that this game turns out to be a barnburner, a classic. Something we can narrate to the future generation/s. Something that you can be proud of to have been a witness to. Something that non-fans would go say, "This is awesome."

One that would inspire that little kid somewhere to go out, hone his craft, and play ball. To grow the game and make it even better.

That at the end of it all, the true winner of this one-game spectacle will be the game of basketball. So sit back, and enjoy the show.

NCAA Season 89 Juniors' Basketball Lineups

JUNIORS

College of Saint Benilde – LSGH Greenies

1) Abadeza, Carlo V.
2) Alcala, Mark Don Victor B.
3) Barrera, Alexis H.
4) Dela Cruz, Michael Louise R.
5) Gob, John Winifred II P.
6) Lanot, Miguel Carlo D.C
7) Lozada, Jose Paolo Miguel R.
8) Paras, Kobe Lorenzo F.
9) Ramilo, Victor Salvador O.
10) Rivero, Rasheed Paolo U.
11) Rivero, Rashleigh Paolo U.
12) Rivero, Ricci Paolo U.
13) Salonga, Rafael Louis C.
14) San Juan, Amando Emanuel II I.

Mapua Institute of Technology Red Robins

1) Aguirre, Dennel Jay O.
2) Cabural, Kevin Lance D.
3) Calderon, Emmanuel Quintin
4) Concepcion, Sherwin E.
5) Garcia, Enrico Joaquin
6) Lugo, Noah Tracy L.
7) Magpayo, Owee F.
8) Mumar, Jocrio Kristoffer F.
9) Pascua, Raymund C.
10) Rivera, Jomari E.
11) Russel, Neil F.
12) Serrano, Justin Oliver M.
13) Velvez, David G.
14) Victoria, Laurenz Paul L.
15) Villasenor, Ronnel P.

Lyceum of the Philippines University Junior Pirates

1) Agdon, Fernard Jassen A.
2) Beroya, John Carl F.
3) Castaneda, Marc Kenneth N.
4) Cecilio, Generoso Jr. E
5) Fajardo, James F.
6) Lagman, Miguel Amiel I.
7) Licerio, Danilo Carl
8) Menila, John Reynhold A.
9) Nuyda, Denis Renzo B.
10) Moreno, John Justin S.
11) Pere, Kent Richmond A.
12) Romanes, Jorge Martin G.
13) Soriano, Lenard G.
14) Taladua, Joshua M.
15) Tropicales, Alvin Troy B.

Arellano University Braves

1) Acsayan, James Darwin M.
2) Balbarona, Juniel S.
3) Banal, Isaiah B.
4) Cabahug, Karl Vincent S.
5) Enriquez, Mark Anthony M.
6) Gula, Juan Miguel E.
7) Juico, Maiko Ellis P.
8) Mascarinas, Troy Senen B.
9) Paradela, Tristan Niel A.
10) Paulo, Steven John F.
11) Peralta, John Joseph G.
12) Rabusa, Hermilo Jr., M.
13) Reyes, Adrian Karl L.
14) Rivera, Renzil D.
15) Zamora, John Kenneth M.

San Beda College Red Cubs

1) Abatayo, Niko Angelo P.
2) Abuda, Franz Jonathan R.
3) Abude, Lancelot Mikhail P.
4) Ancheta, Pierre Jacob D.
5) Caracut, Joshua Andrei A.
6) Decapia, Norrish Marc N.
7) De Villeres, Benjamin E.
8) Diputado, Adven Jess L.
9) Diputado, Marc Joper L.
10) Framil, Mark Anthony Clyde V.
11) Gumtang, John Ryan S.
12) Mocon, Javee D.
13) Romero, Carlitos Jose A.
14) Tolentino, Arvin Dave D.
15) Tongco, Ranbill Angelo V.

San Sebastian College-Recoletos Staglets

1) Alfaro, Jose Mari Miguel A.
2) Beredo, Jose Mauricio A.
3) Calisaan, Michael D.
4) Causon, Jasneth Q.
5) Costelo, Ryan Paule A.
6) Cruz, Jeremy A.
7) Gatdula, Mark Javen B.
8) Gayosa, Alfren S.
9) Ilagan, Regille Kent M.
10) Loor, Pacholo M.
11) Magno, Jasper Philip J.
12) Navarro, Lorenzo Fernando B.
13) Santos, Jeffrey S.
14) Sera Josef, Chester A.
15) Yong, Rhanzelle M.

Colegio de San Juan de Letran Squires

1) Alacre, John Gerdy L.
2) Balanza, Jerrick G.
3) Cabrillos, Nielmer B.
4) Castro, Miguel Lorenzo M.
5) Gedaria, Tommy York
6) Gonzales, Joshua Christian A.
7) Magsino V, Romeo Roberto Nicolas M.
8) Marasigan, Gian V.
9) Ramirez, Jerus F.
10) Reyes, Jacob Gabriel C.
11) Sazon, Yves Marron L.
12) Villanueva, Ivan N.
13) Villasis, Miguel L.
14) Vinluan, Kurt Merwin A.

Jose Rizal University Light Bombers

1) Adorio, Jeric
2) Abrew, Ginno P.
3) Anore, Christian Paolo V.
4) Astrero, King Genrev J.
5) Bautista, John Cedric P.
6) Dada, Andrei Simoun M.
7) Dela Virgen, Mark Justine O.
8) Estrella, Darious Duane B.
9) Garcia, Jamil B.
10) Grande, Edmar M.
11) Marcial, Reginald
12) Ordonez, Mark Edison L.
13) Pallares, Mico Bren
14) Victorino, Eugene Jhan R.
15) Yazouri, Al Hareth A.

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Junior Altas

1) Alano, Jason B.
2) Amploquio, Edelmario T. Jr.
3) Balatbat, Louis Gabriel C.
4) Corrales, Ronald Michael S.
5) Costanilla, Dexter A.
6) Entrampas, Jason P. Jr.
7) Imperial, Sir Shaquille V.
8) Manaligod, Kyle Delmer C.
9) Migote, Arvin A.
10) Miranda, Ken Mark C.
11) Neri, Sean Andrew B.
12) Sison, Jeszir D.
13) Tan, Khristian Danreb P.
14) Udal, Rudolph Gerald S.
15) Umali, John Anthony A.

EMILIO AGUINALDO COLLEGE-ICA Brigadiers

1) Aguilar, Ariel
2) Alafriz, Reenan
3) Bacarisa, Jared
4) Cervantes, John Michael
5) Dultra, John Jerald
6) Escala, Kurt Christian
7) Fandialan, Angelo Ramon
8) Francisco, Zhean Michael
9) Gavino, Norman
10) Meana, Hanniel
11) Palileo, Shane Paolo
12) Piopongco, Alejandro
13) Piopongco, Jose Antonio
14) Rafael, Rolando John
15) Redido, Renmar

Ray Allen on the OT-forcing triple

Jesus Shuttlesworth!

Q.  Ray, can you take us through that last play, you setting up behind the three‑point line, kind of what you saw after Chris got the rebound?

A:  Well, LeBron took the shot, and I knew we had time, I had to go‑‑ I went into the paint to try to get the ball and make something happen.  At that point there's no guarantee who is going to get the ball or what may happen.  And when I seen CB get the ball, I just backpedaled right to the three‑point line, and I was hoping I was where I needed to be.  But I wasn't quite sure.  But just from years of shooting, I got to my spot.

Q.  Ray, how much did your rhythm at the end of Game 5 sort of help you tonight?  And also sort of talk about, this series has been so much about Danny Green's three‑point shooting, and you come back a game after he breaks your record, and hits a pretty big one.

A:  Well, it's been a very unusual series.  There hasn't really been great momentum from one game to the next for any team.  For us shooting‑wise, between myself and Mike, we've been in great rhythm shooting the ball, getting into our positions, trying to take the load off of LeBron and D‑Wade.

But now we're in a situation where we have to make any play, whatever play necessary offensively and defensively is where we have to hang our hats right now.  Because they're an executing team, the best executing team that we've seen thus far.  So defensively is where we have to hang our hats right now to win Game 7.

Q.  Ray, Chris Bosh said you saved the season.  What's the best words for you to describe the magnitude of your shot?

A:  It's going to be a shot that I'm going to remember for a long time.  There's a lot of shots that I've made in my career, but this will go high up in the ranks because of the situation.

Just the way that whole last minute and a half unfolded, it wasn't looking good for us.  But we've been resilient all year.  We've been down in situations, we've come back and won games.  We never give up.  Just being able to be in that situation where the ball bounced in our direction.  You know, we've been a part of many plays where the ball has a funky bounce to it.  And I've known my whole career sometimes you just get lucky.  When you win championships, it involves a little luck.  That right there was luck shining on our side.

Q.  Two questions:  When you caught that pass from Chris, LeBron was at the top of the key screaming.  Did you ever consider kicking it out?

A:  No.

Q.  I had to ask.  Even for someone whose work ethic is as historic as yours is, to backtrack, get your hands set, get your feet set, take that pass and then have the momentum going forward to shoot, how tough is that even for you to do all that in the span of maybe about half a second?

A:  It's tough, but believe it or not, I work on it quite often.  I try to put my body in precarious situations coming from different parts of the floor, different angles to try to get my momentum going moving forward.
I honestly can say I gave myself a great opportunity, a great chance to make that shot.  And it wasn't unfamiliar to me positionally.  When it went in, I was ecstatic.  But at the same time I was expecting to make it.

Q.  Ray, we've talked a lot over the years about your process in that kind of a situation.  You don't aim on that kind of shot.  Can you take us through your sort of mental checklist as that play is unfolding on a broken play like that.

A:  Whether CB [Chris Bosh] threw me the ball or not, I had to get myself in a position where I was ready.  Once the ball came off the rim, I just knew get to the three‑point line.  We need a three.  Two points isn't going to cut it.  So my mental checklist is really to have my legs ready and underneath me, so when the ball comes, if it comes, I was ready to go in the air.

So that's pretty much‑‑ once I get my legs there, I let the ball go.  I'm going to give myself the best chance to make it.

Q.  Ray, you mentioned this is a shot you will remember for a long time.  Would you be all right if this was the defining shot of your career?

A:  I don't think that's up to me to decide.  Anybody who will talk about me when I'm away from this game is going to talk about my impact on the game.  They'll talk about plays that I've made, shots I've made, games I've won.  That will be up to the particular individual.

But I think it depends who you talk to.

NCAA Season 89 Senior Men's Basketball Lineups

SENIORS

Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates

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

San Beda College Red Lions

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

Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers

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

Arellano University Chiefs

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

Mapua Institute of Technology Cardinals

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

Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights

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

San Sebastian College-Recoletos Stags

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

Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals

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

DLS-College of Saint Benilde Blazers

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

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas

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

On the concept of exiting early.

This is clearly, an embarrassing thing to see for your fanbase.

The notion of fans leaving early is a known phenomenon in the sport. I see that in the UAAP a lot. It's really something when you do it in an elimination game in the NBA Finals.

One can only SMH in disappointment. This is even more magnified that it's in Miami, a city that has a really nasty reputation for fans being "bandwagon-y"

However, there are always some who can justify having to do this. Some have work schedules and all that.

Chris Bosh could only say this earlier today, and can you blame him:

"For all those [fans] who left, make sure you don't come to Game 7,"

Here's a transcript relating further:

CHRIS BOSH: You never give up. People gave up on us, and they can stay where they are and watch the game at home.

Q.  Did you like the punishment?  They didn't let them back in. 

CHRIS BOSH:  Yeah, you can't get let back in after you leave.  I know that.  Hell, I've been to games.  You can't leave a game and then come back.  It doesn't make any sense.  You left.  It's not punishment; that's protocol.

UAAP Season 76 1st Round Juniors' Basketball Schedule

Schedule below is as of June 22. Could be still subject to change.

June 30 at MOA Arena

8am - La Salle-Zobel vs Adamson / 10am - UST vs FEU

July 3 at MOA Arena

8am - UE vs UPIS / 10am - NU vs Ateneo

July 6 at Araneta Coliseum

8am - Ateneo vs UE / 10am - FEU vs La Salle-Zobel

July 10 at Araneta Coliseum

8am - UPIS vs NU / 10am - Adamson vs UST

July 13 at MOA Arena

8am - La Salle-Zobel vs UE / 10am - Ateneo vs FEU

July 14 at MOA Arena

8am - UPIS vs Adamson / 10am - NU vs UST

July 17 at MOA Arena

8am - UE vs NU / 10am - UST vs La Salle-Zobel

July 20 at Araneta Coliseum

8am - FEU vs UPIS / 10am - Adamson vs NU

July 21 at MOA Arena

8am - UST vs UE / 10am - La Salle-Zobel vs Ateneo

July 24 at MOA Arena

8am - FEU vs Adamson / 10am - Ateneo vs UPIS

July 27 at Araneta Coliseum

8am - UE vs FEU / 10am - NU vs La Salle-Zobel

July 28 at Araneta Coliseum

8am - UPIS vs UST / 10am - Ateneo vs Adamson

August 3 at San Juan Arena

9am - Adamson vs UE / 1030am - La Salle-Zobel vs UPIS / 12nn - UST vs Ateneo / 130pm - FEU vs NU

UAAP Season 76 1st Round Women's Basketball Schedule

Schedule below is as of June 22. Could be still subject to change.

July 4 at Blue Eagle Gym

9am - UE vs UST / 1030am - NU vs UP / 12nn - La Salle vs Ateneo / 130pm - FEU vs Adamson

July 7 at San Juan Arena

9am - Adamson vs UP / 1030am - UST vs La Salle / 12nn - NU vs FEU / 130pm - Ateneo vs UE

July 11 at Blue Eagle Gym

9am - UP vs UST / 1030am - UE vs NU / 12nn - FEU vs Ateneo / 130pm - La Salle vs Adamson

July 14 at San Juan Arena

9am - Ateneo vs NU / 1030am - Adamson vs UE / 12nn - La Salle vs UP / 130pm - UST vs FEU

July 21 at San Juan Arena

9am - Ateneo vs UST / 1030am - NU vs Adamson / 12nn - UE vs La Salle / 130pm - FEU vs UP

July 28 at San Juan Arena

9am - UP vs Ateneo / 1030am - UE vs FEU / 12nn - La Salle vs NU / 130pm - Adamson vs UST

August 4 at San Juan Arena

9am - UP vs UE / 1030am - UST vs NU / 12nn - Adamson vs Ateneo / 130pm - FEU vs La Salle

UAAP Season 76 1st Round Men's Basketball Schedule

Schedule below is as of June 22. Could be still subject to change.

June 29 at MOA Arena

2pm - FEU vs UE / 4pm - La Salle vs UST

June 30 at MOA Arena

2pm - Adamson vs UP / 4pm - Ateneo vs NU

July 3 at MOA Arena

2pm - UP vs La Salle / 4pm - FEU vs Ateneo

July 6 at Araneta Coliseum

2pm - UST vs Adamson / 4pm - NU vs UE

July 7 at MOA Arena

11m - UP vs FEU / 4pm - Ateneo vs La Salle

July 10 at Araneta Coliseum

2pm - UE vs Adamson / 4pm - NU vs UST

July 13 at MOA Arena

2pm - UST vs UE / 4pm - La Salle vs FEU

July 14 at MOA Arena

2pm - NU vs UP / 4pm - Adamson vs Ateneo

July 17 at MOA Arena

2pm - Ateneo vs UE / 4pm - FEU vs NU

July 20 at MOA Arena

2pm - UE vs La Salle / 4pm - NU vs Adamson

July 21 at MOA Arena

2pm - UP vs Ateneo / 4pm - UST vs FEU

July 24 at Araneta Coliseum

2pm - UP vs UST / 4pm - Adamson vs La Salle

July 27 at Araneta Coliseum

2pm - FEU vs Adamson / 4pm - Ateneo vs UST

July 28 at Araneta Coliseum

2pm - UE vs UP / 4pm - La Salle vs NU

Nike releases the Hypervenom

Before the month of May ended, Nike released the Hypervenom, its latest football shoe in Rio de Janeiro, with the Brazillian wunderkind Neymar.



The Hypervenom aims to help the wearer quickly create space in and around the penalty area, with the ability to get off a shot from any angle. In the case of Neymar, he wanted a boot that would help enhance his agility, giving him the space to get off a shot before opponents can close him down.

To quote Nike Football VP for Footwear Phil McCartney, “The Hypervenom is the ultimate expression of this new breed of athlete who is unpredictable. He is agile. He is quick. And he can finish like very few players on the planet.”

This development is as a result of the evolution of defenders becoming as quick, agile and skillful as the forwards they guard on the pitch. Using feedback from the likes of Wayne Rooney, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Neymar, the Nike Football design team, led by its Design Director Denis Dekovic, then developed a boot that would allow the player to be quicker not just in foot races, but also with the ball in their feet in small spaces. As a result, wearing the boot would enhance their natural agility and thus, be able to virtually create chances out of nothing.

Dekovic adds, “These players have a flair and unpredictability that gets the crowd on their feet. They are the players that fans, teammates and opponents expect to pose the biggest threat. The challenge for us is to harness that talent and give the player the best product to increase that advantage.”

The boot's upper uses the NIKESKIN system, which features a soft supple mesh bound with a thin polyurethane film, finished off with the Nike All Conditions Control technology (ACC) that provides the same level of foot-to-ball control in both wet and dry conditions.

For Dekovic, “Mesh delivers an amazing level of comfort and feel. The athletes asked us to deliver a boot that gets as close as possible to the feeling of playing barefoot. Mesh takes us a step closer to doing that. The ACC finish keeps the mesh dry, but doesn’t take away any of the suppleness or comfort so the performance and intent of the design isn’t affected.”

Complementing the upper for the Hypervenom is a new foot last that is their most anatomical to date for Nike, as they decided to remove excess materials and placing the foot closer to the ball and the ground. They also decided to create a decoupled outsole that would increase the wearer's ability to create separation from the defender. Working with top podiatrists, Nike added a groove in the forefoot that helps to quickly activate the first metatarsal, the bone that defines reaction time of the foot’s first movement.

The chassis of the outsole features compressed nylon for a high-response, plate that helps deliver strength while being incredibly light. The stud configuration and length is designed to allow for faster penetration of the surface and ultimately a quicker release – all innovations designed to help players create space quicker than ever before.

The shoe made its official debut during the FIFA friendly between England and Brazil, worn by Neymar and Rooney on June 2. Also set to be wearing the boot are Ibrahimovic and Polish international Robert Lewandowski.

Details are still unavailable as to when it will be available in the local Nike stores, but the SRP of the Hypervenom is at PhP 10,295. 

They are not Kidd-ing

I wrote this when the report initially came out. And now it has been made official.

Jason Kidd comes back home. It ain't New Jersey, but it is still the Nets. Will be interesting what will his philosophy going to be, as well as who he will be naming as his assistants.

He did say this: 

Championship teams are built on being prepared, playing unselfishly and being held accountable, and that's how I expect to coach this basketball team.

The press conference is to take place later at the Brooklyn Nets offices.

Gee whiz, DLSU?

c/o PEx

I am spending the weekend in Cebu. The only news I was expecting in the collegiate realm is the Master Game Face All-Star Game, which took place earlier today (Team Borgie wins, 89-88, over Team Chris, by the way).

And then this just happened, just as I was having lunch.

IT WAS OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED TODAY BY DLSU PRESIDENT BR. RICKY LAGUDA THAT COACH JUNO SAULER HAS BEEN APPOINTED TO REPLACE COACH GEE ABANILLA AS HEAD COACH OF THE DLSU GREEN ARCHERS IN THE UPCOMING UAAP SEASON 76.

Coach Juno is a long time apprentice of both Coach Jong Uichico and Ron Jacobs. Coach Gee will return to the Petron Coaching Staff which itself is undergoing some "re-evaluation."

In behalf of the whole APcom community, we would like to thank Coach Gee Abanilla for his loyal service to DLSU and assure him of our continued support for all his endeavors.

To Coach Juno, good luck and "JUST WIN!!!"

That was the actual tweet from Archer Pride. Today is June 8. UAAP opens on June 29, with them in the main game at 4pm against UST.

Juno Sauler is Gee's lead assistant with DLSU. For many, he is a veteran assistant coach, specifically with Barangay Ginebra. A little-known fact is that he previously handled the DLSU Lady Archers. He also handled La Salle-Zobel, so he definitely has some coaching chops

It's a drastic and risky move. Some would say, it was a panic button decision. La Salle ended the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup campaign losing three of their last four games, including their matches against their arch-rivals (and UAAP champions) Ateneo and their match against (NCAA champions) San Beda. That is definitely not a good look, even if it is preseason.

When La Salle went into the Filoil, always thought the key will be how to balance out that ridiculous depth of theirs. That is a challenge that is aimed towards the coaching staff. Things may possibly be in turmoil with the coaching change, but Juno will be familiar with the lineup and its quirks. Is he up to the challenge and the pressure that comes with it? We will know soon enough.

Masters of the Court at the Master Game Face All Star Challenge

Scheduled later today, June 8, is the Master Game Face All-Star Basketball Challenge at the San Juan Arena.

Serving virtually as the All-Star Game for the Filoil Flying V Premier Cup, it brings together the best players in the collegiate scene selected by both fans, coaches and by the upcoming coaches of this game in Master endorsers and collegiate legends Chris Tiu and Borgie Hermida. According to Tournament Director Joey Guillermo, "The best players of the tournament are all here to showcase their basketball skills. This game is a great addition to our tournament."

Ateneo alum Tiu adds, “Borgie and I have been able to select players from the best collegiate teams in the country- this is exciting for me as a fan of the college game and I’m sure it will be for the fans in attendance and watching on TV as well.” While San Beda alum Borgie says, “They didn’t have a game like this when I was in college. The best players in college are this game so it should be a great game for fans to watch.”

Both coaches have promised a great game this weekend.

Being the first event of its kind, Filoil joined forces with Master for this event. According to its brand manager Jonathan Pua, "As the biggest face care brand for men, it only makes sense for Master to have an activity on the biggest sport in the country. We are very delighted to partner with Filoil as they are actually the biggest pre season collegiate basketball cup in the country”

The selection process for the Master Game Face All-Star Challenge was made as early as in April, with fans being able to pick who they want to start in the game through an app on their Facebook page (at www.facebook.com/MasterPhilippines). The starters were revealed last May 25, followed by the reserve selections (as seen in here).

The game, which will be telecast LIVE at 4pm on Studio 23, is to be preceded with a cheering competition at 1pm (telecast on 2pm). Gates at the San Juan Arena will open at 12nn. You can check with SM Tickets or at the venue for the opportunity to watch this Saturday spectacle.

Jeric Teng, Rodney Brondial named latest awardees in Filoil Premier Cup

For the final week of the round robin of the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup (May 27-June 1), Jeric Teng was named as the Master Best Player of the Week.

The swingman and skipper of the University of Santo Tomas led secured a stat sheet-stuffing 27 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and three blocks in their 76-75 win over Emilio Aguinaldo College and end their round-robin with a 5-3 record.

The victory of the Growling Tigers ensured that they advance to the next round. They would have been the fourth and final seed if not for Ateneo's decision to not pursue further postseason activities in both the Filoil and the Fr. Martin's Cup. The withdrawal moved them up to the third seed.

Joining Teng in the Gatorade Best Five are EAC's Ely Paguia, Adamson's Jericho Cruz, FEU's Mike Tolomia and Ateneo's Kiefer Ravena.

Cruz's teammate Rodney Brondial was named as the Gatorade Defensive Player of the Week. The big man averaged 12.5 rebounds and a steal for Adamson in their 79-78 win over Perpetual and 75-68 loss to San Beda.

The Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup is presented by Hanes and Vulcaseal/Bostick. The collegiate basketball tournament is co-presented by Master Facial Wash, Starmobile, Meralco, and San Mig Coffee. Sponsors include DHL, Nature’s Spring, Reyes BBQ, Banco De Oro, and Bayo. Minor sponsors include Gatorade, Molten, Brother’s Burger, San Marino, Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Bacchus Energy Drink.

Master Game Face rosters revealed

The organizers of the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup have decided to add a new wrinkle by including a preseason all-star game to showcase the top collegiate stars before their respective leagues commence play (NCAA on June 22, UAAP on June 29).

Subdivided into the two division whose round-robin determined the postseason participants (National University, Arellano University, San Beda College, Adamson University, College of Saint Benilde, Far Eastern University, Jose Rizal University, University of Perpetual Help-Dalta System, University of the Philippines = Group A; Ateneo de Manila University, University of the East, De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Southwestern University, San Sebastian College-Recoletos, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Lyceum University = Group B), each side is to be coached by either Chris Tiu or Borgie Hermida, both of which are Master endorsers.

The starters were voted in by the fans, with the division's coaches helping Chris and Borgie with the selection of reserves.

Fans of Group A selected San Beda's Baser Amer, Rome dela Rosa and Ola Adeogun, alongside NU's Rayray Parks and UP's Andre Paras. Borgie then selected the following as his reserves:

San Beda - Anthony Semerad, Kyle Pascual, David Semerad
NU - Emmanuel Mbe, Kyle Neypes
FEU - Carl Bryan Cruz, RR Garcia, Mike Tolomia
UP - Henry Asilum, Joseph Marata
CSB - Paolo Taha, Jonathan Grey
EAC - Jan Jamon

Meanwhile, fans of Group B selected the Ateneo backcourt of Juami Tiongson and Kiefer Ravena, alongside Jeron Teng of La Salle and Aljon Mariano and Karim Abdul of UST. Chris would then select the following as his reserves:

Letran - Mark Cruz, Raymond Almazan
DLSU - Kib Montalbo, Arnold Van Opstal, Norbert Torres, Jason Perkins
ADMU - Jerie Pingoy, Chris Newsome
UE - Roi Sumang
Adamson - Jericho Cruz, Roider Cabrera
UST - Jeric Teng, Kevin Ferrer

The Master Game Face All-Star Challenge will take place on June 8 at the San Juan Arena. Telecast will be on Studio 23.