Going into the second round of the elimination round of the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup, several players have performed way beyond expectations. These are what I call the "surprise packages," and for their teams, Christmas came early.
Mac Mac Cardona (Talk and Text Tropang Texters) - Captain Hook was already playing well and working hard last season, but who could have predicted this blazing run he is on? Apart from leading his team and the league in scoring, Cardona also posted 32 and 42 point games back to back. Cardona is benefitting from a Talk and Text team that is all too willing to defer to him on offense and there seems to be no indication that the team wil look for anyone else to lead the offense in the future. If he continues on this run, Coach Yeng Guiao may have to add him to the national team roster.
TY Tang (Rain or Shine Elastopainters) - Overshadowed by two higher-profile rookies, Tang has silently gained and then retained a spot in Coach Caloy Garcia's rotation. Despite his recent two game slump where he has just averaged two points, Tang has become a pleasant surprise, even leading his team to a victory by scoring a career-high 24 points. His reliable outside shooting and cat-quick drives ensure that ROS can keep their running game going. The Elastopainters are certainly hoping he can snap out of his slump ASAP.
Bon Bon Custodio (San Miguel Beermen) - The Bonfire, as Quinito Henson calls him, was certainly not in everyone's radar when the conference started, but the spitfirish guard has everyone's attention now. He has an uncanny ability to score on both drives to the hoop and mid -range floaters. What is most impressive though is that he seems in control and doesn't force his shots. Look for the Beermen to trust him even more as they go further into the conference.
Joe Devance (Alaska Aces) - I got on his case early in the conference because of his performance for Welcoat, but it seems all he needed was a team system to shine in (or me harsh words). Alaska seems to have found a role that fits him well, and he has responded with great games after struggling in his first two games. The Aces' recent drubbing of the Tropang Texters featured Devance's great year so far with him scattering 21 points to go with his 12 rebounds. It seems Big Joe has found a home with the Aces.
Larry Rodriguez, Gabby Espinas (Red Bull Barako) - Coach Yeng has always been known to get the most of his players and every season, he seems to make a star out of some previous unknown. This conference, his rookie Larry Rodriguez, and new pick up Gabby Espinas seem to fit the bill. Seemingly undersized for PF/C, Rodriguez and Espinas battle against the giants in the paint daily and they have been winning their fair share of battles. Bot have shown great offensive rebounding skills and reliable jumpers. It's no surprise the Barakos are holding their own this conference.
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