Crack in the Dam

     Everyone knows it by now.  Smart Gilas Pilipinas placed fourth after losing two heartbreakers in the semi-final and battle for third games in the recently-concluded FIBA Asia Championships.  As expectations are not met and emotions run high, lost in all the hatred, armchair coaching, finger pointing and disappointment are the important things.


History Made

     People stuck on the fact that Smart Gilas lost the bronze are stuck on the wrong thing.  Entering the semi-finals of the FIBA Asia is not a easy thing to do for the Philippines.  Consider the fact that the last time the Philippines made the semi-final was in 1987.  Since that time, the country has voted (in some cases, apparently not) 4 presidents, endured at least 10 different coup attempts, as well as participated in 10 FIBA Asia tournaments (missing 1 due to suspension), but the country has never repeated the feat. Until this year.  When one considers that, plus the fact that Middle East teams like Iran, Lebanon, Qatar and Jordan emerged as Asian powers over the past 6-8 years to make the list of top teams in Asia balloon to 8, and the fact that the Philippines once placed as poor as 15th (out of 16) less than a decade ago, one cannot help but appreciate the efforts of Smart Gilas.  Bearing in mind that the Gilas program was on its third year, you have to tip your hats off to them.  China's core group of players have been playing together for 5-6 years while runner up Jordan is on its fifth year.  In short, the program is on track, needing only more time.

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State of the Nation

     With President Aquino delivering his 2nd State of the Nation Address, the Filipino basketball world unexpectedly got one too, as the improbable Smart (NBA) All Stars vs Smart Gilas Pilipinas became a reality.  Here's my Basketball SONA, shortened, of course.

• Sunday's game was the first time the final pool of Smart Gilas players were suited up together.  Only Ranidel de Ocampo, who was injured, didn't play.  Question is, with 15 players in the pool, who is losing a roster spot?  Dylan Ababou and Jason Ballesteros are probably resigned to their fate, but who will be the last cut? Is Marc Barroca in trouble with Jimmy Alapag there or are Japeth's defensive lapses costing him a spot?  Is it simply too late to add Ranidel de Ocampo?

• Coach Toroman's system is good, reason # 243:  Despite the presence of bonafide NBA superstars, the Gilas players showed nothing but determination throughout the game.  They ran the same plays crisply and none were tempted to break from the system to showboat.  In fact, the only players who seemed star struck were PBA vets Don Don Hontiveros and Jimmy Alapag.

• It's unfair to think that the game was "scripted" or the NBA Stars "took it easy (pinagbigyan)."  Their play was way different from Saturday's dunk-a-thon against the PBA selection.  Kobe played a ton of minutes and went after every ball.  Chris Paul seemed to be in pain yet played until the endgame.  Overall, the NBA stars attempted less dunks and lazy 24 footers, and scored on plenty of offensive putbacks and post ups.  Even Javale McGee couldn't find the time to plank.  By the 4th quarter, veterans Derek Fisher and Chris Paul were complaining to the refs and hitting guards Jvee Casio and Marcio Lassiter.  Gilas executed well and played with a lot of gumption and they earned every bit of that 9 point loss.

• It's also unfair to say the PBA has become a bunch of has beens or "puro papogi (showboats)."  The PBA selection never had time to play together so they had no plays.  Resorting to one on one plays played right into the NBA's hands, hence the 26 point shellacking.  It is fair, however, to point out that that game is the perfect example of why the Gilas program must continue.  PBA selections may be loaded with talent, but they will never have the time to prepare for years and no one can force them to since the PBA is a private enterprise.

• Gilas players and coaches have all said it, and it is worth repeating.  The best part about the game is not that they got to play NBA stars or that we got to see them.  For 3 basketball minutes, the entire Araneta Coliseum was united behind Smart Gilas Pilipinas, chanting "Defense!"  Compared to the last time they were playing in the same venue, where PBA die-hards were booing them, the 4th quarter of that game was a heartwarming moment.  Those 3 minutes mean more to the Gilas players than people can ever imagine.

• The best closing argument to defending the Gilas program ironically comes from the mouth of a foreigner.  "You just have to support this team," says 5-time NBA Champion and Olympic Gold Medallist Kobe Bryant.  He called the team "talented" and he marvelled at their execution.  Judging from the way Kobe scored and defended, it is easy to believe he meant every word.

     Everyone's thanking MVP for the "gift" of bringing the NBA players here, giving the country a rare chance to see NBA stars in their prime.  We are better served to thank him for another thing too.  The Ultimate All Star weekend also showed us a sight that has become all too rare.  The weekend showed us a tough, strong, talented, and united National Basketball Team that will make us proud by playing the same proud and disciplined way, regardless of who the opponents are.

many thanks to united philippine basketball and rodney torres for the pictures

Drawing Interest

     The groupings of the upcoming 26th FIBA-Asia Championships have been drawn and much has been said about how the Philippines got a favorable draw.  Here are other interesting tidbits about the draw.

• China, as the host (yet again), had their choice of groups and they picked Group D where the Philippines is.  Coach Rajko Toroman says it's because our group is the easiest and it's good for the Philippines, since we won't meet China in an elimination game until possibly the finals.  I say it works the other way around too.  Since 1990, China has never really blown away the Philippines in a knockout game, with leads averaging 9 or 10 points.  Now with Marcus Douthit and Toroman, they may want to avoid us in the knockout stages too.

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Novel Ideas

     I don't claim to be the brightest bulb in any room, even in the kitchen, but if people who thought they weren't the smartest never threw their ideas out there, who knows what great inventions we would've missed?  So, here are two that would be great for Philippine basketball.


Survivor Series

     As early as now, doomsayers (or "true fans," as they fancy to call themselves), lick their chops in anticipation of Smart Gilas' failure to qualify to the 2012 London Olympics, they are predicting the disbandment of the current Gilas roster and maybe even the program itself.  Coach Rajko Toroman and Captain Chris Tiu have batted for Gilas' continued existence and I think it's not too impossible to keep it running.  

     Given that most of Gilas want to join the PBA and start earning pro money, several players will survive to stay in Gilas. Tiu has been candid about preferring to play for the country and Marcus Douthit would love to stay as well.  Add in the current amateurs Greg Slaughter and Aldrech Ramos and Gilas already has four relatively experienced players.  Now, say Manny Pangilinan opens his wallet and offers the PBA maximum salary to JVee Casio, he would stay as well.  Then, Gilas can complete its roster with players from the Sinag program, guys like R.R. Garcia, Terrence Romeo, Jeric Teng and even players like Bobby Ray Parks, Kiefer Ravena and the mysteriously absent Art de la Cruz Jr.  If the team continues to need reinforcements, they can then ask for "PBA reinforcements," meaning the current Gilas players (that would already be in the PBA by then) who already know the system.  Even if they rejoin Gilas late in the game, they can immediately jump back in.  This way, the Smart Gilas program continues, the PBA gets the Gilas players they covet so much and we still have a continuing basketball program who lives and breathes amateur style ball.  


     It's not the best solution available, but it is the most possible isn't it?


Summer Slam


     Another idea that would be a boon to Philippine basketball would involve nothing but a calendar.  One of the problems Smart Gilas has been encountering lately is manpower problems.  PBA reinforcements have left the team in the cold to play pro ball while college standouts have been called back to play in the UAAP.  Am I daft or could this all be solved by checking the calendar?

     The UAAP runs from July to September or even October.  Everyone knows that that time is the perfect preparation time for all big FIBA tournaments as the big ones are usually set in August or September.  It then begs the question, "Why not schedule the UAAP/NCAA games in the summer?"  The summer, March to May, would be perfect for college ball.  With school out, players can concentrate on playing and their studies wouldn't suffer.  More students could come and watch too as they all have no homework or projects to worry about.  Meanwhile, players will be available for national team duty starting May and they would be ready by September.  

     Ditto for the PBA as well.  Since the league loves the NBA so much, why not copy it?  If the season starts October, it can end by June or July.  If any (and we're talking of only a few players) are called for national team duty, they would be available early, especially those whose teams are eliminated early.  They will also be available months before the big FIBA tournaments.  Besides, avoiding the July to September time would also be helpful to fill up arenas.  Avoiding games during this time can help the PBA avoid typhoon and flooding season and even the big Hollywood summer movie season, both of which are significant challengers to game attendance.


     Am I over-simplifying things or are our supposedly "eternal problems" in Philippine basketball entirely solvable?  All I know is, if we all want it so much, we can find a way to make Philippine basketball one big successful situation.     


photos courtesy of FIBA Asia and inboundspass

Bitter Pills

     Despite the gutsy effort from Smart Gilas Pilipinas in the recently-concluded 22nd FIBA Asia Champions' Cup resulting in a record 4th place finish, there continues to be brickbats thrown at the national team and its followers scrambling to defend them.  With Gilas' ultimate goal waiting in September in Wuhan, China, the country has barely three months to unite everyone to present a united front.  For both the haters and the fans, here are some bitter pills to swallow.


For the Smart Gilas Fans


Pill # 1 Smart Gilas players have yet to learn everything.

     As long as they have trained together, it's clear Gilas needs more time.  Too often the players try too hard to find the completely open shot, foregoing a relatively open shot and thereby stagnating the offense.  It's admirable that the players are very unselfish with the ball, but they should also be wary of passing up shots and later causing a forced one before the shot clock expires.  The next three months are crucial to these young men, as the multiple tune up games will give them opportunities to learn more discretion in shooting.


Pill # 2 Smart Gilas needs the PBA's help.

     Of course, its ideal to have players be with the program for the entire three years. PBA players joining the team after the Governors' Cup in August could disrupt chemistry but Gilas needs reinforcements. Each of Coach Rajko Toroman's choices for PBA help serve to plug the holes in the team.  If Gilas were a 6 to 8 year program then it would be fine to go all amateur, but since everyone wants Gilas to win this year or bust, then, PBA reinforcements are key.

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Director's Cut

     It was an anti-climactic close out game for Gilas, as poor shooting, especially from outside the three point arc doomed them as they succumbed to Al Rayyan Qatar, 71 to 64 to settle for 4th place in the 22nd FIBA Asia Champion's Cup, the Philippine's highest placing in 15 years.  Nevertheless, there was no diminishing the sterling performance of this young team, evident in the way the crowd waited until after the game to give them an applause they truly deserved.  While my penchant for verbosity can talk about Gilas and their performance endlessly, I feel it's best to take others' words this time.


Audio Commentary

• "You guys (Gilas) almost had it. Just a few more shots and you could've won," proclaimed ASU Jordan star Osama Dahgles after the Iran vs Gilas game when I ran into him at the Podium.  He was shaking his head in disbelief.

• "Like has been their wont in the competition – some might even say for the last three years – Smart Gilas displayed tremendous character and characteristic effervescence in the display of their sublime skills," according to S. Mageshwaran of FIBA-Asia.

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Lighthouse

     They did not disappoint.  What was billed as an epic battle was indeed just that.  The capacity crowd, filled with Filipinos and a small, dedicated group of Persians, were left cheering, shouting and shaking their heads in disbelief.  After all, the finish typified the struggle both teams faced the entire game.    Even clutch free throws from Nikkhah Bahrami could not close out the feisty Pinoys, as Mahram watched with clenched teeth as Gilas attempted two open threes that would've tied the game.  Smart Gilas Pilipinas and Mahram Iran battled, scraped and fought for 40 hard minutes and in the end, the result, an 80-77 win by Mahram was only as important as the war that preceded it.  


High Lights


1.  What was most gratifying to see in the game was the effort from both teams.  Many detractors have pointed out that this wasn't the Olympic qualifier; a victory here would not add to the Olympic chances of either team.  Yet, on the court, both teams gave literally everything they've got and in that way, gave honor to the game of basketball that often times has been tarnished by betting and cash.  

2.  Iran, as expected, was very disciplined, very athletic and very big, but apparently, no one told Smart Gilas that.  Gilas today showed a swagger, a confidence and a certain defiance and it showed on the court.  Gone are the blank looks of confusion and shock from the other Philippine teams of the past.  Today there were only intense, passionate looks and it translated into the superb play the crowd witnessed.

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Spot the Difference

     Not since 2007 has a non-Middle East team made it to the semi-finals of the FIBA Asia Champions' Cup, and it figures that Smart Gilas, the team that could, is the one who made it.  Trailing by as many as 15, Gilas summoned the courage and resiliency I've been saying (for the past 2 years) they have to rattle off a searing run, capped by a Chris Tiu 3 pointer and a Japeth Aguilar 3-point play to seize the lead from Al-Jalaa Syria.  Then, they never looked back and held on to make history, beating Syria, 85-80.


     Finally getting into the Phil Sports Arena early, I got to talking to some of the spectators and it was truly a rewarding experience.

     Getting into the Iran-Saudi Arabia game at the 3rd quarter, I notice rabid cheering for the defending champs and I'm startled to see the score show a 25 point lead.  Judging by the noise, I would've thought the score was a lot closer.  I then fix my eyes on the source of all the excitement.  I meet Amin, a college student,  just one of the close to 50 "Proud Persians" in the lower box stands, cheering lustily for their dominant team.  During a timeout, we get to talking and Amin was a blast to talk with.  "It doesn't matter if they win or not; if they're champion or not," explains Amin when I ask him about Iran's chances in the tournament.  "They are heroes and we support them with our last breath."  

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The Sweet Escape

     It was a nail-biting finish, a crowd-pleaser I might add, as Smart Gilas Pilipinas defeated ASU Jordan, 76-74.  In a very physical game punctuated by great defense on both sides, Gilas grew up before the eyes of the almost capacity crowd as it used even-keeled play to steel themselves through questionable calls (lots of them) to victory.  With a significant win like this, there are signs to take note of on both sides of the spectrum.


The "Heart" in Sweetheart

1.  You have to give it to the old guy.  Senior statesman Asi Taulava once again provided plenty of energy for the Gilas squad, constantly banging with ASU import Jameel Watkins, inhaling rebounds and defending the paint.  It's almost as if being with the young kids of Gilas has revitalized Asi and it's serving the country well. If anyone doubts his FIlipino side, then you're not watching the game and how Asi plays.  He is as Pinoy as isaw.


2.  Give the newest 34 year old the Medal of "Valorie." Don Don Hontiveros waited until his birthday to unleash his breakout game, knocking in 6 triples and 23 points overall.  More impressive though was the fact that he came back to finish the game after his calf cramped up.  Asking to be subbed after his 5th triple, Hontiveros got his calf massaged, then came back and finished ASU off. I've always known Hontiveros was the best choice for a PBA guard reinforcement and I'm glad Coach Toroman and I were on the same wavelength.

3.  Someone get JV some "JW" Johnny Walker (Blue).  Receiving a tremendous tongue lashing from Coach Toroman for iffy decisions and botched plays, JVee Casio was a picture of a completely downtrodden man, or so I thought.  Casio did what real men do and that is step up to the challenge.  Shrugging off early game blues, Casio had a big second half, including 2 crucial short stabs and two big free throws to keep Jordan at bay.  That's our point guard right there and aren't we glad he's a toughie?

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Rumors, Facts and Humor

     In what was clearly their ugliest game of the 22nd FIBA Asia Champions' Cup, Smart Gilas Pilipinas managed a 74-64 victory over upstart Duhok Iraq.  Former Gilas naturalization candidate C.J. Giles saved his best game for his former mates, producing a 20 point, 23 rebound performance. Gilas, as usual, spread the wealth with Marcus Douthit (14 points, 15 rebounds), Marc Barroca (12 points, 8 rebounds) and Chris Tiu (11 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists).  Meanwhile, let's go showbiz with some "rumors, facts and humor."


Rumors

1.  Forget the salary cap conspiracies.  Joe de Vance has become a regular fixture at the Gilas games, and he tweeted some kind words about the team.  Since he's now Air 21 (or could he be headed to an MVP-owned team?), isn't it a possibility that he be released in time to practice with Gilas if Kelly Williams is unavailable?


2.  Coach Rajko Toroman was as animated as ever, especially with tons of questionable calls throughout the game.  He got into animated conversations with Duhok players Chudnay Gray and Qutaiba Al-Doori as well.  What were they talking about? 

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7 Pieces (of trivia)

     In Day 2 of the 22nd FIBA Asia Champions' Cup, Smart Gilas Pilipinas destroyed the KL Westport Dragons of Malaysia, 95-64.  While Gilas played listlessly in the first half (and let the Dragons end the 1st half with the lead), they came roaring back with tremendous defense in the 2nd, allowing the Dragons only 24 points.  To amuse myself in the listless first half, I began asking myself questions and I've come up with these 7 entertaining pieces of trivia.

1.  Dylan Ababou scored 6 points in 5 minutes 4 seconds in Gilas' first game.  In tonight's game, Ababou scored 5 in 3 minutes 43 seconds.  That means Ababou has more points than minutes played, with a ratio of 1.25 points per 1 minute. Talk about a scoring machine!


2.  Gilas now holds the distinction of not only being the 1st team to use all 12 players but also having all 12 score at least 2 points, as Asi Taulava and Jason Ballesteros scored today.


3.  Marcus Douthit played only 19 minutes and 20 seconds today, making this his shortest stint in a sanctioned game, since being ejected for an altercation in the finals of the Dubai International.

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Five Things

     The big news of the night would be Smart GIlas Pilipinas drubbed Saudi Arabia, 101-69, to auspiciously open their bid in the FIBA Asia Champions' Cup.  I think it's the least exciting of the encouraging news of the night.  Everyone expects Gilas to beat Saudi, but here are the five things I deem more exciting from tonight's game.

5. The Excellence of Execution - It was truly a refreshing sight to see PBA All Stars Don Don Hontiveros and Jimmy Alapag on the Gilas bench.  More exciting to see, though,  is how hard Hontiveros was playing to acclimate himself into the rotations.  GIlas was able to run a couple of sets with Hontiveros in, so it seems he's picking things up well.  Alapag may not have played but it was great seeing him consult with JV Casio about where point guards would go during a particular play.

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National Pastime

     Since I began taking note and covering Smart Gilas months after its inception, I've noticed one thing.  No matter what Gilas has or has not achieved, people always post line up suggestions on the comments section of any website or blog.  I've jokingly called it the, "national pastime," since everyone's been doing it.  As with all pastimes, though, it really isn't worth doing unless you do it right.

     Before engaging in my own version of this national pastime, we have to consider certain realities.  First, the only reason why Gilas is asking for PBA players is because of the tremendous pressure the nation is putting on them to produce immediately.  Given the chance, I'm sure Toroman would like this current Gilas team to train until 2016 so the players can mature and gel better, but impatient so-called experts and nationalists are forcing their hand to produce immediately.  Second, Coach Toroman never said he wanted 5 PBA players so he could end up picking just 3 or even 1.  Third, Toroman's picks for PBA players only serve to augment the team, not change it.  This means he needs players than can adapt to the system quickly, not just lights out shooters. 

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Breaking Blinders

     I'm an avowed fan of Gilas. I can't deny it and I won't, but I stopped defending them since this article last year because I figured people have realized how good they are already, especially since they've dominated the PBA teams they have faced.  Lately, though, the hatred for Gilas has been increasing and it's absolutely absurd. I list down the most common attacks on Gilas and let's see if they have merit.

"Marcus Douthit has no tall opposition so he's dominating."


     Pros losing to an amateur Gilas team need a convenient excuse.  They've been saying this even before the start of the conference, but PBA teams are better served practicing ball denial and boxing out rather than complaining.  Yes, Douthit has dominating numbers, but it's not all his height; it's the system. A lot of Douthit's points are close in shots, put backs off offensive rebounds and short stabs off cuts.  Neither kind is exclusive to overly huge players.  His rebounds are the same. It doesn't hurt to be huge with long arms, but it also helps that all your teammates, even guards, box out all of the opposition to help things along.  Blocks? It's the same story. Gilas plays a specific kind of defense. Guards lead all opponents to the baseline, where Douthit or any other center will be waiting for the block. At the baseline, offensive players are trapped because of the baseline and the backboard, making it easy to block shots or steal the ball.  


     Don't believe in the explanation? Find a way to get their stats from their last Middle East tournament and you'll see Douthit averaging close to the same numbers even ranged against NBA-sized imports of the Middle East.  Over here, in the B Meg game where Douthit got hurt, even substitute Greg Slaughter tallied 7 (!) blocks. 

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Fifty Peso Shots: November 2010

     I'm very late with my November edition of Fifty Peso Shots, but I was kind of busy last November 30.  wink wink.  Many thanks to everyone who supported me and I look forward to giving Pinoy food and Pinoys, here and abroad, something to be proud of on my upcoming cooking show on Lifestyle Network! Meanwhile, check out the 1 hour special of the entire Clash of the Toque-en Ones on December 20 at 10 pm, Skycable channel 52.


Now, some shots from the cheap seats:

• POC and PSC leaders claim they are "happy" and/or "satisfied" with Team Philippines' performance in the last Asian Games.  We finished way behind South East Asian neighbors, but they are happy? Great! We should probably look forward to another sixth place finish in next year's SEA Games. Woohoo! (Please detect major sarcasm here) 

• Lebron James acted like a big sissy, intentionally bumping Coach Erik Spoelstra when he called a timeout during a testy loss to the Dallas Mavericks.  Then, he allegedly had friend  lapdog Maverick Carter release a story of how Spoelstra was such a tyrant, slamming Lebron on being not serious enough.  Instead of gaining sympathy for the Heat's woes, James is just giving more credibility to rumors he's a cancer to teams.  It also raises Spoelstra's stock as coach as the Heat rattled off four consecutive wins after he scolded Lebron.

• Hornets fans have it tough. After a summer of uncertainty when franchise player Chris Paul threatened to leave, they now face an ownership void.  George Shinn is ready to sell the team and the NBA will be their owner for the time being. That has to be the weirdest feeling.  Imagine competing in a contest where your mom is also the tournament director. Yikes!

• Many disappointed with the performance of Smart Gilas should be more patient before calling for the return of PBA pros.  In the past, foreign coaches would always praise the Philippines as "talented but needing more time to adjust to each other and the international game."  If one reads into the recent interviews with coaches, they no longer spew that same condescending lines.  They talk about the Philippines unmatched toughness and relentless defense.  That is improvement, if one cares to actually think about it.

• If people want to know which National Sports Association (NSA) Heads to replace, look no further than Swimming/Diving Head Mark Joseph.  The man with two first names was so on top of the situation that he didn't even know his OWN DIVERS GOT INTO A BUS ACCIDENT on the way to competing. Then, after he was informed his diver was injured (confirmed by doctors), he scoffed and broached the possibility that it could have been, "an old injury acting up."  That's the picture of a leadership award winner right there.

photos courtesy of sports.yahoo.com, getty images and gmapinoytv.com

Tiu-pefied

First of all, I'd like to invite everyone to watch my cooking demos daily on the Lifestyle Network or online on this link and on this one as well. Help make me Lifestyle Network's 1st Star Chef by voting for me.  Send an email to lifestylenetwork@thelifeyoulive.tv and type VOTE SHARWIN on the subject box.  You can vote as many times as you want as voting is unlimited, even from one email account!

     I'm probably the worst kind of fan there is.  Obsessed and always analyzing, I've become jaded to a degree.  I'm rarely effusive in my praise, but my interview last week with Smart GIlas skipper Chris Tiu left me no choice but to be different.  It's funny because I've known him since he was in second year high school, but his presence, humility and wisdom never fail to amaze.

     Finally able to talk to him after several tries, he graciously granted my request for an interview, inviting me over to Gilas practice. (Check out my fly on the wall article here)  While he was warming up and getting treatment for his sore hamstring and thighs, I take the opportunity to strike up a conversation/interview.

Plugging the Holes

     On the subject of pros playing, Chris displays his intuitive and intelligent side.  He admits pros are needed, despite GIlas playing together for over 11/2 years.  "There are pros and cons," Tiu explains.  "Whatever experience we’ve got over the last two years, you can’t compare to the experience the other pros have gotten. They’ve been playing for the past 5-7 years of their career so it helps to have an experienced player on the team." He is fully aware that, especially at this point in their development, they need some help.  "It helps to have pros plug in the holes, missing links within the team.  It would definitely help to have these guys, Asi (Taulava) Kelly (Williams) Sol (Mercado), most specially the big men positions coz we’re very limited with big men."  

     He's a realist, though, and he recognizes the difficulties PBA players have with their commitments to their mother teams.  Besides, he thinks the Gilas amateurs are more than ready themselves. "I think the level of the guys on this team now, JV (Casio), Mac (Baracael), (Chris) Lutz, Marcio (Lassiter), when they make it to the pros, they’re not going to be considered rookies anymore. A lot will be expected of them, so in a sense they’ve reached that level already where they can be very competitive at the pro level; technically they’re pros as well."  If given the choice to decide on the country's basketball program?  It's obvious Tiu believes in the GIlas program.  "I prefer you get some pros and retain the non pros, because for one being (amateur Gilas), we’ve traveled to so many countries playing against the best players and we’ve played as one team. We’ve gotten used to the system of coach (Rajko Toroman) so that’s an advantage."

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A Fly on the Wall (at Gilas Practice)

First of all, please catch my cooking demo at the Lifestyle Network or by clicking this link.  Then, help me become Lifestyle Network's first Star Chef by sending an email to lifestylenetwork@thelifeyoulive.tv and typing VOTE SHARWIN on the subject box.  Votes are unlimited so I hope you can keep voting, even from the same account!  


     It's easy to take shots and give advice from the cheap seats; that's why I call my blog From the Fifty Peso Seats.  Last night though, I decided to move down the aisle and take a closer look.  Attending the practice of Smart Gilas, I had no idea who would train and what they would do.  One thing's for sure, though.  Leaving practice, I had a very good idea of how we're going to do at the Asian games.

     Scheduled at 7 p.m. at the Arena in San Juan, practice actually starts earlier than that, as I spy Mark Barroca already outside the gym at 530.  I came early, since I was meeting Chris Tiu for an interview at 6.  Soon after parking, JV Casio and Tiu arrive and we enter the gym.  Dylan Ababou follows, then Chris Lutz with Coach Rajko Toroman.  Chris and I begin talking as he gets taped.  Beside us, Casio gets a much needed massage treatment on his beat up legs.  As Casio grimaces in pain, I ask Chris about Marcus Douthit.  He is optimistic about Douthit's chances, but rues the pressure of having things done before the Senate goes on break.  He then reveals that even if Douthit is naturalized, we have to hope the Asian Games Committee accredits Douthit.  I ask him if China could screw us over and he admits it's a possibility.  

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Tiu Tiu Train (of Thought) Part 2

     First of all, I'm inviting everyone to follow me on twitter, not just for the latest on sports, but on food and restos as well.  www.twitter.com/fiftypesotweets    

      Here's the continuation of my exclusive interview with Smart Gilas insider Charles Tiu.  This time, we get into his thoughts and preferences.


From the 50 Peso Seats: To celebrate From the 50 Peso Seats 100th post, 10 top ten lists were made.  What is your pick on Best Sports Movie?

Charles Tiu: (I) Haven't watched too much sports movies, especially the old ones but i really like sports movies in general. I'd have to say Remember the Titans or Coach Carter, which I've watched like 5x. (my pick: Hoosiers)


FFPS: What about Most Beautiful Woman in Sports?

CT: Most Beautiful? i don't know.. tough one.. i like Stacy Keibler of WWE or maybe (Maria) Sharapova! (my pick: Melina of WWE) 


FFPS: What about Best Monicker?


CT: Best monicker... Sir Charles.. 'cause i love Charles Barkley. (my pick: Dean of Mean)


FFPS: Do you play NBA Fantasy?  Who would be your number one pick if you get to
pick first?


CT: Yes I do, and I often help people out too! Kevin Durant.. though Chris Webber told me he'd pick Dwight Howard.


FFPS:  Who is your pick to win the NBA MVP this season?  Will Miami win it all this
year?


CT: Kevin Durant will probably win the MVP this year. I don't think Miami will win it all. I hope they do because I sure don't want the Lakers to win again. I don't see any team beating the Lakers out West this year and the closest team that could would be Oklahoma. Boston will be in the thick of things again.


FFPS: Would you care to predict the outcome of this year's UAAP?


CT: I predicted the final four teams right, even before the season started, when even lasalites doubted their own team. It will be a tough one that will probably need three games, but i sitll say Ateneo will be victorious. (CT was right. Ateneo completed a three-peat, beating FEU 65-62 in the second and final game of the title series)


FFPS:  Who do you think is the best basketball player to come out of Xavier High
School?

CT: I can't speak of those who graduated ages ago, but probably Joseph Yeo (individually, athletically and skills wise) but as a team player and career so far, it's hard to match Chris Tiu too (2 mythical fives in the UAAP, National Team Captain)


But if you ask who the best player was while playing for Xavier in high school, it would definitely be Eric Yao.


FFPS:  What's keeping you busy nowadays?  Any business/project you want to invite
people to?


CT: I am doing something for the 10.10.10 Run for the Pasig River. I would definitely like to invite people to join. You don't have to be runners or what; you can just walk. This is our statement to show that we care about our river and this will show the government that they better do something about it. 120,000 runners will be a world record and it will make the Filipinos look good again, amidst all the recent controversy surrounding us.


FFPS: Thanks for your time.


CT: Thanks!

photos courtesy of gmanews.tv,  fanpop.com,

Tiu Tiu Train (of Thought) Part 1

First of all, everyone is invited to follow me on Twitter.  http://twitter.com/fiftypesotweets     

     From the Fifty Peso Seats is honored to have an email conversation with Charles Tiu, one of Smart Gilas' insiders, who took time out to reveal news on Gilas, among other things.  In part one, Tiu finally details the real deal about Gilas, debunking some lies other newspapers have been concocting. (Note: The interview was conducted a week ago and all of the information has since been verified by the news)

From the Fifty Peso Seats: You've become an unofficial spokesperson of Smart Gilas, writing about them in the broadsheets and updating fans on twitter.  How did you get in this

position?  Did you volunteer or were you asked?

Charles Tiu: I don't think I am their unofficial spokesperson. I just happen to know a lot of stuff about the team, since I'm pretty close to coach and i follow them a lot, watch their practices and all that. And I really only update with things that i know are okay to be talked about already. Like (for) example Lassiter being AWOL. (Lassiter has since apologized to Gilas - FFPS) It came out only late last week in the papers but we knew about that a few weeks earlier. I didn't want any of those coming from me, because I am in no position to report that. I just also like to update people via twitter cause I feel that with the generation nowadays, they don't really bother reading newspapers much to get their news updates.

Read more

Letter to Manny Pangilinan

Mr. Manuel V Pangilinan
Chairman 
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas
c/o SMart Gilas Manager Frankie Lim


Dear Sir:


     First of all, let me just say that I am a fan of your moves since you have taken over the SBP.  From the developmental league to the multiple year plan with Smart Gilas, I believe Philippine basketball is in your capable hands.  


     Speaking of GIlas, I recognize the advantages of hiring a naturalized foreigner to play as our center.  As well as GIlas is playing, it is easy to see we need a big man to provide us inside stability, rebounding and shot blocking.  That's why I am just as perturbed as you that our first two naturalization candidates have not worked out for us.  That's why I did my own scouting reports and I have three candidates for you.

     I was hoping the SBP, through scout Jim Kelly and coach Rajko Toroman, would take a look at asking Greg Stiemsma to join us.  This former Wisconsin player plays center for the Sioux Falls Sky Force and he could be the defensive center we desperately need.  The 6'11", 260 pound Stiemsma currently averages 7.7 points (on .492 shooting), 6.8 rebounds, and more importantly, shoots a commendable .886 percentage from the free throw line and a whopping 3.5 blocks (NBDL league leader) in just 26 minutes of action.  I've seen Stiemsma play and he really does have center instincts, always around the basket to protect it and he is athletic enough to rotate quickly.  His free throw percentage also suggests an ability to hit mid range shots, which neither of our earlier candidates could do.  Gilas would need a classic center, and Stiemsma could be the answer.

       Another option would be to ask Rod Benson to join us.  If you are not familiar with this 6'10", 225 pound Cal grad, allow me to fill you in.  Benson is currently playing for the Reno Big Horns of the NBA's Development League (NBDL), after almost making it to the Indiana Pacers line up.  As a Bighorn this year, Benson is carting averages of 13.5 points (on .507 shooting percentage), 8.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and more importantly, 1.7 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.  These numbers suggest that he may be what we need... a defensive big man who can rebound, steal and block shots. Another plus for would be intelligence, as evidenced by his quirky and entertaining writing which is featured in his blog, www.toomuchrodbenson.com  This plus the fact that he has played professionally abroad, will no doubt help him acclimate to our culture and Gilas' offensive and defensive patterns.

     The last candidate would be Dwayne Jones of the Austin Toros.  If the team feels a greater need for rebounding and scoring, Jones is the man.  He is a monster of the boards, leading the NBDL by averaging over 15 a game (including 6 offensive).  He is not bad on the offensive end either with averages of 16.8 points (on .611 shooting) and a respectable .704 free throw percentage.  He blocks well too at 1.9 blocks a game.  Certainly, if this 6'11", 251 pound forward-center can dominate the inside against future NBA stars, he would do well with the Smart Gilas team.  


     There you have it, three candidates I am almost certain will be the answer for the gaping hole our national team has in the middle.  I hope you get the chance to contact them.  Who knows, maybe they would find the prospect of joining our national team an enriching and fun experience.




Sincerely,
From The Fifty Peso Seats