Wynne the Fall Guy

 In an unprecedented decision, the Philippine Basketball Association handed down a stiff punishment to Burger King Whopper Wynne Arboleda, suspending "The Snatcher," for the rest of the season for attacking a fan in the stands.  With the season just starting, Arboleda stands to lose almost all of his salary of over PhP 2.5 million and he cannot play in any other league since he is under contract with Burger King.  Much has already been said about Arboleda's folly and while I completely agree with the PBA's decision, I can't help but feel that the situation, just like a good murder mystery, is not completely resolved.  That's because Arboleda isn't the only guilty party here, yet he is the designated, "fall guy," so that other guilty parties are scot free.

     Reviewing that fateful game where Arboleda's Whoppers took on Philippine National Team Smart GIlas, it was clear that the game plan for the Whoppers was to physically intimidate the Nationals to disrupt their fluid offense.  Playing physical, though, is way different from playing dirty, as Gilas Coach Rajko Toroman intimated after the game.  There were a total of four flagrant fouls called in the first 1 and 1/2 quarters alone, with Toroman claiming two more missed by the referees.  With that many flagrants in the game, Coach Yeng Guiao (if he were innocent and I don't believe he is)  should/could have prevented it by the second flagrant foul.   It was clear that the directive to play physical came from him. After all, what team would have several players commit flagrant fouls all in the same game?   Guiao should have taken responsibility by telling his players to knock off the dirty plays.  By letting them continue the rough housing, Guiao was giving a go signal for his players to bring the pain, thereby raising the emotions of the game.  Fans of Gilas (and everyone else in the venue) could see the bullying going on and of course didn't appreciate the dirty play.  In fact, it got so bad that Buger King's own boss, Lito Alvarez, had to go into the dugout by half time essentially to stop his players from playing any dirtier. The elevated emotions definitely played a role in agitating fans enough to hurl expletives at the players.  It just might as well have been Guiao insulting Arboleda there.


     Another guilty party would have to be the referees.  Sure, they tried to control the rough play by calling the flagrant, but they could have taken the time to talk to the players and coaches to cease the attack on Gilas, perhaps giving them warnings that further infractions would result in ejections and suspensions.  Secondly, they should have been more alert when Arboleda made his way to the stands.  Arboleda may be a speedster on court, but he wasn't exactly making a mad dash to the fan.  A more alert referee crew could have gotten in Arboleda's way before the disaster.  This particular crew, however, only got to Arboleda AFTER Wynne was able to kick the fan in the gut.  


     Lastly, a blame finger has to be pointed at the Araneta Coliseum security.  When the NBA had the "Malice at the Palace," where Ron Artest attacked a fan, Araneta copied the NBA plan of having security placed near the court area to prevent another fan attack.  The Araneta security, however, were virtual tortoises here as they arrived even later than the "speedster" referees.  These were the same guards who valiantly prevented me from high fiving Melina properly when the WWE came to town, but when someone actually attacks, they are nowhere to be found.  Bravo guys.  


     The whole incident, "The Arboleda Attack at Araneta," is ugly whichever way you look at it.  A disrespectful fan, a hot headed player playing dirty, a coach who allowed dirty play to get back at the team that beat his silly, a batch of referees slightly sleeping on the job and a security crew who act like matadors all caused a situation that could seriously affect fan appreciation of Asia's oldest professional basketball league.  So why is it that only one element of the disaster was punished?   

Fifty Peso Previews: NBA's Pacific Division

     I close out my NBA fifty peso previews with the Pacific Division, home of the defending champions, the Los Angeles Lakers.  Will the Lakers repeat?  They could, but they will encounter numerous tough challengers, but probably not from their division.


Golden State Warriors


Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Stephen Curry, Mikki Moore
Projected Starters: Monta Ellis, Anthony Morrow, Stephen Jackson, Anthony Randolph, Andris Biedrins


     The Warriors are in quite a mess and ownership should shoulder the blame.  Undermining and then later on removing former GM Chris Mullin netted them internal problems ranging from player to coach (Stephen Jackson vs Don Nelson) and player to player (Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry).  The Warriors do have great young talent in Ellis, Curry and Anthony Randolph, but the line up is smallish and uneven.  Look for the Warriors to be inconsistent, with some games having them scoring a lot of exciting ball while some games having them stink up the place.  It will be another tough year for the Warriors fans who have been thirsting for another playoff run.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season


Los Angeles Clippers


Last year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Blake Griffin, Rasual Butler, Kareem Rush
Projected Starters: Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Al Thonrton, Marcus Camby, Chris Kaman


     The Clippers were their usual selves last year, losing horribly and regularly despite their talented line up.  This year, the addition of number 1 overall pick Griffin, who seems to bring a healthy passion for the game, could be the spark needed to excite the Clippers veterans to play harder.  The key, though, will still be Davis, who can singlehandedly bring a team to the playoffs.  If Davis is interested and the Clippers stay healthy, then the Clips could surprise people.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (8th seed or eliminated from playoffs)

Los Angeles Lakers


Last Year: Champions
Key New Additions: Ron Artest
Projected Starters: Derek Fisher, Kobe Bryant, Ron Artest, Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum


     The defending champs, not satisfied with keeping their championship line up intact, went ahead and signed Ron Artest to replace Trevor Ariza.  On paper, that would be bad news for the rest of the league, as the Lakers mainly an offensive team, just added some vaunted defensive teeth.  The problem is, Artest loves to hold the ball for long stretches on offense, which could bog down the Lakers' famed triangle offense.  Artest has said all the right things about playing within the system and even Phil Jackson has said he foresees Artest playing well so indeed, the road to the finals will run through the Lakers again.


Fearless Forecast: At least Western Conference Finals

Phoenix Suns


Last year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Channing Frye, Earl Clark
Projected Starters: Steve Nash, Jason Richarson, Grant Hill, Amare Stoudemire, Channing Frye


     Now that the Shaq experiment is over (thank goodness), the Suns, coach Alvin Gentry, can concentrate on their famed running game again.  With Nash at the helm, look for the Suns to run and gun and score buckets.  The problem for the Suns is age.  Nash and Hill, who are expected to anchor the running game, are rather long on the tooth so playing at a high level for 82 games will be no easy feat.  If the young, untested Suns can help spell the "old guys" consistently, then the Suns will be able to return to the playoffs.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round)


Sacramento Kings


Last year: Eliminated in the regular season
Key New Additions: Tyreke Evans, Desmond Mason, Omri Casspi
Projected Starters: Tyreke Evans, Kevin Martin, Desmond Mason, Jason Thompson, Spencer Hawes


     The Kings were one of the worst teams last season and things will probably not get too much better this season.  Adding Evans to a squad with young studs Hawes and Martin is a step in the right direction, but it's just step 1 when the Kings need to complete 15.  Look for the Kings to play with a lot of inconsistency but also with a lot of promise.  Unfortunately, promise doesn't count in the run up to the playoffs.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season




photos courtesy of Getty Images and Ball Don't Lie

Fifty Peso Previews: Northwest Division

     The Northwest Division used to be the "throwaway" division, as it usually had only one or none of its teams make the playoffs.  Last year was sort of a rebirth for the division with the Denver Nuggets going all the way to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in over two decades.  This year, what was once the nerdy kid whose lunch money was taken promises to emerge as the new school bully.

Denver Nuggets


Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (Western Conference Finals) by the L.A. Lakers
Key New Additions: Ty Lawson, Arron Afflalo
Projected Starters: Chauncey Billups, Arron Afflalo, Carmelo Anthony, Kenyon Martin, Nene


     The arrival of Billups provoked a change in the once talented but lethargic Nuggets and it tranformed the Nuggets into title contenders that caused the eventual champs Lakers quite a scare.  With the team coming back this year and a further strengthening of their backcourt, the Nuggets are looking to once again challenge for the title.  The ride, though, might not be as smooth as they thought.  Coach George Karl has a tendency to rub off the wrong way on his players after several years and this could be the year that that happens with these Nuggets.  Also, the Nuggets have several very injury-prone players have tremendously healthy years last year that one has to begin to get worried if they could have that kind of a year again.  However, if the Nuggets are blessed with health again and Billups' leadership skills are as hyped, then the Mile High City will be among the NBA's elite cities.


Fearless Forecast: At least 2nd round of the playoffs


Minnesota Timberwolves


Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Jonny Flynn, Ramon Sessions, Sasha Pavlovic
Projected Starters: Jonny Flynn, Corey Brewer, Ryan Gomes, Al Jefferson, Mark Blount


     The Timberwolves are a true hard luck case.  New GM David Kahn made all the right moves by shedding salaries, picking well and gathering talent, planning on having a young improving team that could entice big name free agents to take a second look at Minnesota next year.  Then, reality set in.  First pick Ricky Rubio couldn't get a buy out, deciding to play a couple more years in Europe, and promising big man Kevin Love broke his left hand in a pre season game.  It certainly is not a good start for the Wolves this season but they do have some nice pieces in Jefferson, Sessions, Flynn and Gomes.  When Love comes back by December, the Wolves could provide some spirited competition to teams looking to make playoffs.  As for challenging for a playoff spot?  That might have to wait.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season


Oklahoma City Thunder


Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs
Key New Additions: James Harden, Etan Thomas
Projected Starters: Russell Westbrook, Thabo Sefalosha, Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, Nenad Krystic


     Thunder owner Clay Bennett broke the hearts of the Sonic fans by moving the team to OKC, but he sure is doing right in his new city.  Hiring GM Sam Presti was a stroke of genius as Presti has created a young team with boatloads of talent.  With Durant, Green, Westbrook and now James Harden, look for the Thunder to run a great offense while playing scrappy defense that Coach Scott Brooks will ask for.  While the Thunder still lack a dominant inside force to complement their athletic wingmen, they will give their opponents fits, especially when Durant begins to dominate.  It might be nice to mark your calendars as this could be the year the Thunder make the playoffs for the first time.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st Round)


Portland Trail Blazers


Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st Round) by the Houston Rockets
Key New Additions: Andre Miller, Juwan Howard
Projected Starters: Andre Miller, Brandon Roy, Nicolas Batum, LaMarcus Aldridge, Joel Pryzbilla


     GM Kevin Pritchard's hard work is now paying off.  Ridding themselves of the "Jail Blazers" Portland now has a line up of ultra talented players with great attitudes to complement them.  The additions of Miller and Howard were meant to provide the veteran leadership to a team which features the unworldly versatility of Roy, the sweet shooting touch of Aldridge and the power and athleticism of Greg Oden.  If they can all put it together with no major injuries, there is no limit to where the Blazers can go.  The West had better watch out as a new dominant force could emerge and bring Rip City back to life.


Fearless Forecast: At least 2nd round of the playoffs

Utah Jazz


Last Year: Eliminated in the Playoffs (1st Round) by the L.A. Lakers
Key New Additions: Eric Maynor
Projected Starters: Deron Williams, Ronnie Brewer, Kyle Korver, Carlos Boozer, Mehmet Okur


     The Jazz have quite a talented line up in their hands this year and the good part is they have played together for quite some time now.  Unfortunately, this team has been plagued by injuries (almost every member of their core group of players have missed significant time) and by continuous speculations of players being traded (especially Boozer).  Utah's success this year will rely on their ability (and luck) to conquer these problems.  If they can, then Hall of Fame Coach Jerry Sloan can and will lead them deep in the playoffs.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round)


photos courtesy of Ball Don't Lie and Getty Images

Fifty Peso Previews: Southwest Division

     Once thought to be the toughest division in the NBA, this season might see the Southwest once again field in 3 teams from their division in the playoffs.

Dallas Mavericks

Last Season: Eliminated in the playoffs (2nd round) by the Denver Nuggets
Key New Additions: Shawn Marion, Drew Gooden, Tim Thomas
Projected Starters: Jason Kidd, Quinton Ross, Shawn Marion, Dirk Nowitzki, Erick Dampier

     Obviously gearing up for what could be Jason Kidd's last hurrah for an NBA title, the Mavericks acquired veterans to shore up the line up.  The additions, however, don't seem to be enough despite what owner Mark Cuban may want to believe.  The Mavs still have no defensive presence they can anchor themselves to, and with Josh Howard and Shawn Marion already battling injuries this early, the Mavs will do well enough to just make the playoffs alone.  Nowitzki's and Kidd's overall brilliance and Jason Terry's hot-shooting will keep the Mavs very dangerous, but as for competing for the title?  Well, Cuban shouldn't bet his house on his own Mavs.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round)

Houston Rockets

Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (2nd round) by the L.A. Lakers   
Key New Additions: Trevor Ariza, David Andersen, Chase Budinger, Jermaine Taylor
Projected Starters: Aaron Brooks, Trevor Ariza, Shane Battier, Luis Scola, Carl Landry

     What a difference a year makes.  Last season, the Rockets had a line up that featured a "Big Three" and were one win away from a stint in the Western Conference Finals.  Now? None of the "Big Three" will start the season for them and people have all but dismissed them from the playoffs.  With Ron Artest leaving for the Lakers,Yao Ming out for the season with an injury and T-Mac not close to returning, the Rockets will be a testament to Rick Adelman's coaching skills and GM Daryl Morey's theory on picking players by the statistics.  Look for this Rockets team to play solid defense anchored by Battier and scrappy offense courtesy of all their draft picks and free agent signings.  This year will also be a good test for Ariza's capability to carry the load so this season will be quite a discovery year for the Rockets.

Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (8th seed in playoffs or eliminated in the regular season)

Memphis Grizzlies

Last year: Eliminated in the regular season
Key New Additions: Hasheem Thabeet, Allen Iverson, Zach Randolph
Projected Starters: Mike Conley, O.J. Mayo, Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol

     The Grizzlies seemed to be hellbent on rebuilding (which was a great move on their part) and when they picked Thabeet, the Grizzlies collected for themselves a handful of young and promising talent.  That's why it's such a puzzle that they went ahead and acquired two superstars (albeit troublemakers) this season.  Hiring Iverson and Randolph, both "shoot first, ask questions later" players, doesn't coincide with any rebuilding plans as neither are spring chickens and neither have shown themselves to be great role models or teachers in all their years in the NBA.  While Iverson has been saying all the right things about his new teammates and practice (!), this strange experiment of the Grizzlies will turn out to be one of those "horrible explosion in the lab" types of experiments.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season

New Orleans Hornets

Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round) by the Denver Nuggets
Key New Additions: Darren Collison, Darius Songaila, Emeka Okafor
Projected Starters: Chris Paul, Morris Peterson, Julian Wright, David West, Emeka Okafor

     After being the playoff darlings a couple of years ago, the Hornets were utterly disappointing last season.  Sure, injuries played a part in their collapse, but the Hornets have to face the reality of it all.  If they want to compete for championships, they need to find more help for Paul and West.  While trading Okafor for Tyson Chandler was a good start, the Hornets didn't do much else.  The unworldly talent of Chris Paul will keep this team great and if the health of West and Okafor hold up, the Hornets will make the playoffs.  As for competing in the NBA FInals? Owner George Shinn needs to show people the money first.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round)

San Antonio Spurs

Last Season: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st Round) by the Dallas Mavericks
Key New Additions: Richard Jefferson, Antonio McDyess, DeJuan Blair
Projected Starters: Tony Parker, Roger Mason, Richard Jefferson, Tim Duncan, Antonio McDyess


Sensing that their "Big Three" of Parker, Ginobili and Duncan still has at least a couple of years together, the Spurs opened up their cash box and brought in some veteran help.  Taking in Jefferson and McDyess plugs the holes in the two positions that they were severely weak in and it also means more possible rest time for Duncan and Ginobili, who broke down health-wise last year.  The question now is whether these guys really do have another of couple of years in them.  The true test for the Spurs will be late in the season if they have their health with them.  If they do, this one could go all the way once again.


Fearless Forecast: At least 2nd round of the playoffs.




photos courtesy of Ball Don't Lie and Getty Images

Fifty Peso Previews: NBA's Southeast Division

Rounding out the NBA's Eastern Conference is the Southeast Division, home of the defending Eastern Conference Champs, the Orlando Magic.  Are the Magic the only good team in this conference?

Atlanta Hawks

Last Season: Eliminated in the playoffs (2nd round) by the Cleveland Cavaliers
Key New Additions: Jamal Crawford, Joe Smith
Projected Starters: Mike Bibby, Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, Al Horford

     The Hawks got a huge monkey off their backs when they got to the playoffs since the Mutombo era two seasons ago.  Since then, the Hawks, despite their ownership woes, seem to want to do better.  Re-signing their vital cogs Smith and Bibby was definitely a sign that the Hawks want to compete this year, and compete they certainly will.  With the addition of the streak shooting Crawford to an already respectable bench, look for the Hawks to be an even better scoring team.  Their biggest chance for success though will depend on their defense and Mike Woodson is all over that.  The question mark will be Josh Smith, since his dynamic defensive abilities to block, steal and rebound (when he wants to) will be the key to making the Hawks a credible defensive team.  If Smith somehow works well with Woodson (with no drama this time), then the Hawks will have a chance to actually be threats in the playoffs, rather than get swept again in the second round.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the playoffs (2nd round)

Charlotte Bobcats

Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Tyson Chandler, Flip Murray
Projected Starters: Raymond Felton, Raja Bell, Gerald Wallace, Boris Diaw, Tyson Chandler

Part owner Michael Jordan is as good a basketball executive as he was a baseball player.  His moves have left the Bobcats with an uneven line up over the years, and the trades pulled off last season and over the summer not only failed to correct that, but they also left the Bobcats older and more injury-prone.  Trading the oft-injured Emeka Okafor for an even more oft-injured Tyson Chandler is the final nail on the coffin of the Bobcats' playoff chances. This mish mash of a team may play some good games throughout the season by virtue of versatile stars Wallace and Diaw, but it really doesn't look good for the Bobcats and its coach Larry Brown.  If they do any significant strides towards the playoffs, then Brown deserves a Nobel prize because they are a lost cause.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season.

Miami Heat

Last Season: Eliminated in playoffs (1st round) by the Atlanta Hawks
Key New Additions: Quentin Richardson
Projected Starters: Daequan Cook, Dwayne Wade, Michael Beasley, Udonis Haslem, Jermaine O"Neal

For a team trying to convince Dwayne Wade to stay with them next year, the Miami Heat sure didn't do much.  Acquiring Quentin Richardson doesn't do much to augment the Heat, as their bench continues to be very weak.  Moving Beasley to small forward will help  their starters' offensive sets, but don't be surprised if Wade contends for another scoring title, and the Heat get eliminated from the playoffs.  Filipino American coach Erik Spoelstra must find help for Wade if he wants the Heat anywhere near playoff contention.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season

Orlando Magic

Last Year: Lost in the Finals to the L.A. Lakers
Key New Additions: Vince Carter, Matt Barnes, Jason Williams, Brandon Bass
Projected Starters: Jameer Nelson, Vince Carter, Mikael Pietrus, Brandon Bass (for the 1st 10 games), Dwight Howard

     In what could only be described as an arms race, the Magic responded to the Cavs' and Celtics' improvements by acquiring talent.  Lots of it.  With ownership willing to shed dough, the Magic's revamped line up features a team two deep at every position and trouble for all opponents.  The Magic now possesses more three point shooters, a legitimate power forward (with power), and an end game scorer in Carter.  While the Cavs feel entitled enough to print their finals tickets already, the Magic seem to be the ones destined for another crack at the title.

Fearless Forecast: At least Eastern Conference Finals

Washington Wizards

Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Randy Foye, Mike Miller
Projected Starters: Gilbert Arenas, Mike Miller, Caron Butler, Antawn Jamison, Brendan Haywood

     The Wizards, marred by a myriad of injuries, especially on superstar Arenas, have had a miserable last season.  This year, things are looking up for Washington as Arenas is supposedly fully healthy.  To further add flame to their already potentially red-hot offensive trio of Arenas, Butler and Jamison, they have traded for sharp shooter Miller and combo guard Randy Foye.  What makes all this explosive is the hiring of new coach Flip Saunders, one of the league's most innovative offensive coaches.  That's why Wizards fans are optimistic, as this year promises a high scoring playoff year for the Wizards.  Look for the Wizards to reclaim their 5th spot in the playoff race.

Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in Playoffs (2nd round)

Fifty Peso Previews: NBA's Central Division

     Continuing on with my NBA previews, I move on to the Central Division, the most feared division in the Eastern Conference in the 90's and early 2000's.  Will they regain that lofty stature this coming season?


Chicago Bulls


Last Year: Eliminated in playoffs (1st round) by the Boston Celtics
Key New Additions: None
Projected Starting Line Up: Joakim Noah, Tyrus Thomas, Luol Deng, John Salmons, Derrick Rose


     When you barely make the playoffs, you expect to try to improve yourself in the off season.  Other than not spending too much money on Ben Gordon, the Bulls made no significant moves this summer.  Perhaps, they feel like last season's mid season trade (where they got Brad Miller and Salmons) will only reap benefits this year so they're willing to wait it out.  The Bulls do have some athletic and talented pieces in Rose, Salmons and Kirk Hinrich, but they still lack for that consistent inside scoring presence that would help them in close game situations.  They are also not blessed with the best of head coaches in Vinny del Negro.  Del Negro, other than distracting opposing shooters by shouting at their ears, has not shown to be an innovative or resourceful coach, which a young team would thrive under.  With their talent, though, the BUlls will battle once again for a playoff spot.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (8th seed in playoffs or eliminated)


Cleveland Cavaliers

Last Year: Eliminated in playoffs (conference finals) by the Orlando Magic
Key New Additions: Shaquille O'Neal, Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon, Leon Powe
Projected Starters: Shaquille O'Neal, Anderson Varejao, Lebron James, Anthony Parker, Mo Williams


     The Cavs were thoroughly enjoying their 2008-09 run through the NBA until the Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic shoved their sense of entitlement down their throats.  In anticipation of another battle with Howard, GM Danny Ferry brought in Shaq to beef up the frontline.  Ferry also added length and athleticism to the wing with Moon and Parker and some inside scoring with the still injured Powe.  With those huge additions, the Cavs' swagger has returned and they are talking about the championship again, unmindful of their much improving rivals.  O'Neal's entry though, threatens to bring more questions than answers.  With Shaq's penchant for playing well on his debut seasons with his new teams, the Cavs are expected Shaq to join hands with LBJ and bring Cleveland a coveted major sports award.  However, Shaq is an aging, injury-prone center who had never been comfortable guarding the pick and roll, which is what the Magic used to destroy the Cavs' defense.  Shaq, then, would theoretically not solve the na gging problem that the Magic presented to them.  Moreover, Shaq continues to demand attention due to a superstar in his prime, even if he is 7 years removed from that time.  If Shaq, as he claims, learns to defer to Lebron throughout the season both on and off the court, then the Cavs have a chance at that title.  Otherwise, it could be more heartbreak for the King.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the 2nd round of the playoffs 

Detroit Pistons


Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round) by the Cleveland Cavaliers
Key New Additions: Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, Ben Wallace, Chris Wilcox
Projected Starters: Rodney Stuckey, Rip Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Charlie Villanueva, Chris Wilcox


     After the once mighty Pistons had fallen, GM Joe Dumars took another chance.  Going back to what made him a genius of a GM, Dumars trawled the free agent market for competent assets shunned by other teams at a bargain price.  Muck like how he built the Pistons before with players no one wanted at that time (Rasheed and Ben Wallace and Chauncey Billups), Dumars signed Gordon, Wilcox and VIllanueva players dumped by their previous teams.  Unlike his previous three signings that brought a stingy defense and an NBA championship, these latest three are more known for offense and the (lack of) defense.  Is Dumars looking for a more offensive team this year, seeing last year's offensive woes?  Look for the Pistons to be scoring a lot better while seeing their defense go down a few notches.  If Gordon embraces another sixth man role and the team regains a much celebrated chemistry, the Pistons could battle for a playoff spot as well.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (8th seed in playoffs or eliminated)


Indiana Pacers


Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Tyler Hansbrough, Dahntay Jones, Luther Head
Projected Starters: Solomon Jones, Troy Murphy, Danny Granger, Dahntay Jones, T.J. Ford


     While GM Larry BIrd has done a great job ridding the Pacers of all the players that caused so much turmoil off the court, he seems to be stuck in a mode of getting all these good guys while not building a team strong enough to be title contenders.  Troy Murphy, Mike Dunleavy and T.J. Ford are "nice guy" players that can really play and Danny Granger is an all star that should be a part of Team USA but Coach Jim O'Brien will have another tough year trying to win with this uneven line up.  The Pacers lack depth and an inside presence and right off the bat, Mike Dunleavy is still injured.  Unless the Pacers perform some minor miracles on the court, Indiana will have to wait at least another year for a playoff spot.  


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season


Milwaukee Bucks

Last Year: Failed to make the playoffs
Key New Additions: Carlos Delfino, Hakim Warrick, Brandon Jennings
Projected Starters: Andrew Bogut, Hakim Warrick, Kurt Thomas, Michael Redd, Brandon Jennings


     The Bucks have never been willing to shell out big bucks for players, and it can be seen clearly in their present line up.  It's a mess.  Lacking both firepower offensively and prowess defensively, the Bucks will have a tough time again this year.  Michael Redd, when healthy is a most deadly shooter, but who else will step up and support him?  It should be time for Andrew Bogut to emerge, but even if he did, the Bucks will not stand a chance in the much improved East.  Look for the Bucks to be competitive on games when they figure out Coach Scott Skiles' defense, but they will be on the receiving end on some beatings as well.


Fearless Forecast: Eliminated in the regular season


     Once a feared division with those fabled Bulls, Pacers and Pistons teams, this division will probably send one team into playoffs convincingly.  It looks like the Central division will not be at the center of playoff basketball this playoff season.

Fifty Peso Previews: NBA's Atlantic Conference

     With the NBA season coming up in a few weeks' time, I figured it was time to start my Fifty Peso Previews, starting with the Atlantic Conference.  Before anything else, though, my heart goes out to all those affected by the storm Ondoy.  I am also honored by the thousands of volunteers who selflessly devoted their time to help others.  Hopefully, my articles can help entertain you and provide you with momentary relief.


Boston Celtics

Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (2nd round) by the Orlando Magic
Key New Additions: Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels, Shelden Williams
Projected Starters: Kendrick Perkins, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo


     The 2008 Champs failed to defend their title, but it wasn't for lack of trying.  Despite losing heart and soul Kevin Garnett, The Celts not only got into the playoffs, but gave eventual Eastern Conference Champs Orlando a tough fight.  As expected, fans and observers alike wondered if the Celts could have defended their title had Garnett played.  With KG, as he claims, back to full strength, the Celts would be again title contenders, but you've got to give it to GM Danny Ainge.  Not one to rest on his laurels, Ainge went out and filled up some holes in their line up.  Rasheed Wallace and Marquis Daniels will definitely fill the much needed roles of bench support and even if any of the big three go down to an injury, one of these guys should be ready to take up the cudgels.  Look for Boston to flash the vaunted stingy defense anchored on KG (and now to be supported by Sheed) and with all the championship experience in this team, Boston fans are licking their chops as they can (rightfully) sense another good shot at the title.


Fearless Forecast: At least into the Eastern Conference Finals


New Jersey Nets


Last Year: Failed to make playoffs
Key New Additions: Courtney Lee, Rafer Alston
Projected Starting Five: Brook Lopez, Yi Jian Lian, Josh Boone, Courtney Lee, Devin Harris


     Long before the Nets sold part ownership to Mikhail Prokhorov, they were already taking steps towards a new era.  Shedding big salaries of superstars like Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson and Vince Carter, many have written off the Nets as early as now.  While it's true they won't win a championship this season, the Nets do have some nice pieces.  Look for great seasons from youngsters like Harris, Lee and Lopez, three of what I believe will be the Nets' future, whichever city they end up in.  Harris, already an All Star, will now have the team to himself and this season can be the time to show his leadership skills.  Lopez, a mobile 7 footer with great basketball IQ, is also set to have a nice season with a year under his belt.  While this team is one of those hoping to win the Lebron sweepstakes, watch for the Nets to play some exciting basketball and maybe even make the playoffs as an 8th seed.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (either low playoff seed or eliminated)


New York Knicks


Last Year: Did not make Playoffs
Key New Additions: Darko Milicic, Jordan Hill
Projected Starting Five: Darko Milicic, David Lee, Wilson Chandler, Larry Hughes, Chris Duhon

     Two years after his depature, Isiah Thomas is still screwing the Knicks.  Conscious of unloading Thomas' bad contracts, GM Donnie Walsh has made moves to ensure the Knicks will have plenty of room for the 2010 free agent market, probably the most talent-rich FA pool in years.  Because of this, the Knicks have made no significant additions to last year's line up which not only failed to make the playoffs, but also lost, as a team, to Dwight Howard in total blocks.  Yikes.  Coach Mike D'Antoni is optimistic though.  Danilo Gallinari and Eddy Curry seem to be healthier and ready to play, and the team will have had a full season under D'Antoni's "seven seconds or less" offensive patterns.  With David Lee and Nate Robinson in contract years, with ridiculed busts like Gallinari and Milicic and with oft-injured millionaires Hughes and Curry in the line up, look for the Knicks to play inspired ball this season.  Surely, this team will be exciting to watch, with their fast-paced, shoot first, ask questions later offense (even if they still won't play defense) and with the right amount of luck, could battle for an 8th seed in the playoff race.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (either low playoff seed or eliminated)



Philadelphia 76ers


Last Year: Eliminated in the playoffs (1st round) by the Orlando Magic
Key New Additions: Jrue Holiday, Jason Kapono
Projected Starters: Samuel Dalembert, Elton Brand, Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, Louis Williams


     This season will be year 2 of the Elton Brand experiment.  Last year, the 76ers playing with Brand was a complete and utter mess.  When Brand went down, they actually played better and made the playoffs.  With new coach Eddie Jordan and his Princeton offense, look for the 76ers to become like those high-scoring, cat-quick Wizards teams Jordan coached in the mid 2000s.  Williams should bounce back form a wildly inconsistent season, and Andre Iguodala will play better as the team's second option behind Brand. As long as Jordan and the 76ers learn to utilize Brand's talents better, and with a young crew consisting of Iguodala, Young, Williams and Maresse Speights, the 76ers should play exciting basketball and make the playoffs.


Fearless Forecast: Playoffs 6th or 7th seed, eliminated in first round

Toronto Raptors


Last Year: Eliminated in regular season
Key New Additions: Hedo Turkoglu, Marco Bellineli, Jarrett Jack
Projected Starters: Andrea Bargnani, Chris Bosh, Hedo Turkoglu, Marco Bellineli, Jose Calderon


     WIth Chris Bosh all set to test free agency in 2010, GM Brian Colangelo knew he needed to make changes to the Raptors to keep Bosh interested. So, in true Colangelo fashion, he went nuts and almost traded away the entire team.  What resulted is a Raptors team that is loaded with tons of shooters to complement Bosh's inside presence.  Look for the NBA's only international team to actually play with international style.  With shooters like Bargnani, Turkoglo, and Bellineli, together with playmakers like Calderon and Jack, you can already see the Raptors to play with lots of movement, screens and outside shots.  This will make for a more exciting and competitive Raptors team and if enough shooters find their mark, it's not impossible for the Raptors to make the playoffs, and thereby keep Bosh in their fold.


Fearless Forecast: Bubble Team (either low playoff seed or eliminated)



     Last year, the Atlantic Division had two teams in the playoffs, but look for the Atlantic to make a push and actually have three teams in the playoffs this coming season.  

Next: Central Division


photos courtesy of getty images and ball don't lie

A Wish Granted?

The biggest bowling news lately is how American cops endangered the arrest and incarceration of a suspected drug dealer because they played Wii bowling in his house after they raided it. In the side of my bowling world, however, no news is bigger than the headlines made last Friday.

Last Friday, legendary Rafael "Paeng" Nepomuceno notched another bowling victory by earning the right to represent the country in the 2009 AMF Bowling World Cup, which will be held in Melaka, Malaysia from November 14 to 21, 2009. The 52 year old placed 2nd in the 64-game elimination round and then blasted his much younger competition in the stepladder finals. Paeng first faced Paolo Valdez and smashed him, 244-236 and 213-181. He then brought the pain to top seed Benshir Layoso, whipping the national team bowler 217-201 and 242-195 to earn his 16th trip to one of bowling's most hyped tournaments. Paeng's enviable record at the World Cup (an unprecedented 4 titles in 15 attempts) plus his record of 118 overall titles is what he plans to bring to the table come November.

While this piece of news is more than enough for me to get excited for November, another older, but no less important piece of news added very dry wood to the already raging fire of my excitement.

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Better Than Streaky Bacon

     For sports junkies, few things make sports more exciting than streaks.  To do a great thing is impressive, but to do a great thing multiple times and to do consecutively at regular intervals?  That deserves lots of recognition.  The world of sports has provided us with some truly lip-smacking streaks, two of which were just achieved recently.

Fed Up

Aside from being called the greatest tennis player of all time, Roger Federer has won an unprecedented 15 Grand Slam titles, including impressive streaks at Wimbledon and US Open titles. This past week, though, Fed continued with his streak that I personally love.  As of today, the Swiss hotshot has a streak of 22 consecutive Grand Slam Semi-Finals appearances.  While for some being a semi-finalist is less impressive than being champion, being a semi-finalist for 22 straight times means that Federer has been one of the best in each of the four Grand Slams for over five consecutive years! Still not impressed? Consider this. The closest streak rivaling Federer's?  Ivan Lendle's streak stands at 10.

One-Named Wonder

     Baseball has several impressive streaks and this past week, one was established by a player so good people call him by only his first name.  Seattle Mariners' Ichiro Suzuki now holds the MLB record for consecutive 200-hit seasons after his infield single against the Texas Rangers this past week.  Ichiro now has 200 hits for nine consecutive seasons and he isn't even close to retiring yet.  How impressive is this achievement?  He broke "Wee" Willie Keeler's record of eight consecutive seasons, which stood for over a century!  Yes folks.  Keeler achieved his record from 1894-1901.  That was even before the World Wars!

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We Deserve Better

     Too often, people find my choices of favorite players to be perplexing.  While people loved them their dominant stars like the Michael Jordans, the Lebron James and the Kobe Bryants, I rooted for players like Chris Mullin, Hakeen Olajuwon and David Robinson.  Was I just intent on being different for different's sake?  "No," I always explain.  It's just that while people look for flashy moves, achievements and dominance, I look for character and class.  This past weekend only served to reinforce my standards of people worth emulating.

In a bizarre ending to an otherwise entertaining match, Kim 
Cjlisters defeated Serena Williams 6-4, 7-5, with match point being won on a point penalty on Williams for "conduct unbecoming."  Called for a foot fault on her second serve at 15-30, Williams, clearly incensed, brought her head down and after a moment's pause, proceeded to verbally accosting the line umpire.  While the line umpire claimed that Williams told her she could kill her, Serena has denied this.  What was clearly confirmed, though, was that the defending U.S. Open Champion told her she could, "ram this ball down" her throat.  Williams was then rightfully penalized a point (since she was already warned for breaking her racket in the first set) and since it was match point, Cjlisters was declared the winner.

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Betting on Gilas

     Like a young lover spurned by the object of affection, Lito Alvarez, governor of the Burger King Whoppers of the Philippine Basketball Association, scoffed at Japeth Aguilar's decision to play for Smart GIlas.  Then, he went on jilted lover's attack, saying maybe the PBA should continue fielding teams for international competitions, instead of Smart Gilas.  I think this is where Alvarez has broken from reality because unlike him, I believe Smart Gilas will do better than a PBA All Star Team in international competitions.  

      Now, before people start to make preparations to bring me to the looney bin, I do have my points.  Without going into the X's and O's and player by player match ups, I think Gilas will outperform the PBA selections because of three factors.

Certain Tendencies

     The PBA has done its best to change some of its rules (closer 3-point line among others), but it rema

ins a professional league.  That means playing against the same teams while being officiated by the same referees.  It also means playing only the same afternoon and evening schedules.  This means that opponents will play off your tendencies, while referees will call based on certain reputations.  Pro players come into the game performing certain moves that almost always get calls, defend players and avoid fouls  based on their reps, while they can fake off opponents by feigning moves they are known for.  Furthermore, players' bodies all have developed an internal body clocks attuned to playing their best during the late afternoons and late evenings.  This results in players like Kerby Raymundo and Jay Jay Helterbrand who were largely ineffective because they couldn't get the calls and the free throws they needed to get their games going.  Pro players have a difficult time scoring of drives to the basket since they have developed a tendency to wait for calls that would come in a pro game, but never in a FIBA Tournament.

     Meanwhile, GIlas players will spend most of their days training on a system developed by Rajko Toroman, whose system fits the international amateur game.  While Toroman is by no means the greatest coach on earth, his system is still a lot closer to the international game than any of the PBA's greatest coaches.  This means that players will keep playing in

ternational ball, complete with constant movement, outside shooting, and zone defense.  The only tendency they will develop is the tendency to play international amateur style of baskeball.

Shaping Things Up

     PBA players are supposedly in great shape, but "game shape" in international ball is way different from "game shape" in pro ball.  Pro games last 48 minutes, but it's filled with longer breaks, mandatory commercial timeouts, more timeouts and more slow down play.  International games give teams just 5 timeouts and even the halftime break is shorter.  This is why all our PBA teams from Norman Black's 1994 team to Yeng Guiao's 2009 team all shoot poorly.  The players are all out of breath and tire easily.  In international play, most teams play with constant player and ball movement, giving players no room to "pace" themselves to play 48 minutes.  Playing the pro style doesn't prepare the pros to keep up with the pace of the international style of play.

     While Gilas will play as a guest team in the PBA, they will also participate in several c

amps, exhibitions and tournaments with FIBA rules and international amateur opponents.  This will ensure that Gilas players will be physically prepared to run and defend with only five timeouts and a shorter halftime to rest with.

It's Only Natural

      Although naturalizing an American by no means ensures you make a difference, naturalizing C.J. Giles does.  Giles, a former L.A. Laker, is 6'11" with great rebounding skills and a competent low post game.  This is by far more than any of the PBA's top big men can provide.  The soo

n-to-be naturalized player has athleticism that none of our local big men can provide.  Perhaps more importantly, though, is Giles' will.  Even if he is not a natural born Filipino, expect him to give his all in every game.  This was clearly seen when he played for GIlas in the FIBA Asia Champions Cup.  Giles, who was injured in a previous game, begged Coach Toroman to put him in the next game, despite being told he was excused.  That kind of dedication on an athletic 6'11" player is quite a game changer, and more importantly it's a game changer the PBA doesn't have.

     On paper, it sounds silly that a team with Chris Tiu, Japeth Aguilar and Dylan Ababou could beat a team with the likes of WIllie Miller, Asi Taulava and James Yap and maybe it is, in a professional PBA game.  In the international game, though, my money (and Manny Pangilinan's) is on Smart Gilas and its bunch if amateurs. 

photos courtesy of delfinek.hu and kansas.scout.com

Breath of Fresh Air

     Too often nowadays, athletes in news stories not involving their particular sport features some law violation of some sort.  That's why it was quite a breath of fresh air for me to read about Kaleb Eulls, a high school football star who is committed to playing for the Mississippi State Bulldogs next year.  

     The 6'4" 255 pound defensive end ended up saving 22 lives by doing an act he later termed as, "Crazy."  Heroic is a more appropriate term though.  Riding a school bus with his 2 sisters going to Yazoo County High School, Eulls was awakened by his sister, only to find a woman threatening everyone with a handgun (.380 semi-automatic).  In an amazing display of level-headedness, Eulls opened the bus' emergency rear door, allowing as many students to escape as he could while reasoning with the woman with the gun.  Then, when the woman was slightly distracted while looking out the window, Eulls seized the opportunity and the gun and he quickly ran outside to disarm it.  

     Asked about his heroic deed, Eulls was candid about it, stating his disbelief at his own actions, obviously realizing what a tremendous risk he had taken with his life and career.  He said he acted in order to save his sisters and the others on board, doing "the right thing."  

     In these times where selfishness reigns not only in the sports world, this high school hometown hero has truly humbled me.  I've seen too many athletes demand too much while giving too little.  I've seen athletes think too much of themselves that they fail to act like true role models.  That's why Eulls and his selfless act should be what dominates sports headlines. Class acts like him are what kids who want to get into sports should read about.  If Nike and Adidas want their role model, they should look no further than Yazoo County.

     Perhaps Sheriff Tommy Vaughn of Yazoo County said it best. 

     "He (Eulls) made the statement to one of my deputies that if she was going to shoot anyone he would rather she shoot him. Watching him do that and him doing such a heroic act and not even caring about his own safety, that's something you don't see every day." 

story and photo courtesy of rivals.com and bulldogblitz.com

The Hulabaloo Over Japeth

     By now, every basketball die hard in the Philippines has heard of the "Japeth Aguilar Controversy."  Aguilar, the Philippine Basketball Association's (PBA) first overall pick of this year, has announced his decision to not sign with the Burger King Whoppers in favor of playing for the Smart Gilas Philippine National Basketball Team.  This has led the Whoppers, headed by its governor, Lito Alvarez, to lead a call for Aguilar's lifetime ban from the PBA, claiming that Aguilar is, "making a mockery," of Asia's oldest professional basketball league.  Now, fingers are being pointed, and factions are beginning to form.  Who really is to blame here and who can resolve this matter?  Well, for all the finger pointing going on, I think let's all be honest and point to the only man who could've started this and the only one who can resolve it.  Manny V. Pangilinan.

Is Aguilar Evil?

     Aguilar's sudden change of heart is what gets Alvarez' goat and I have to say, it is extremely peculiar for a first overall pick to suddenly decide not to play.  After all, being the overall top pick presumes one will get the maximum salary (over PhP 8 million, three years) and possible endorsement deals.  This peculiarity has the Whoppers calling Aguilar a turncoat, essentially. The question is, though, "Is Japeth that evil?"  

     My gut says no.  Barring any possible rift with Whoppers (and then National Team Coach) Yeng Guiao (Aguilar has denied any rift), I see only one other scenario which would embolden Aguilar to change his mind.  Samahang Baskeball ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Manny Pangilinan is the creator and benefactor of the Smart GIlas team, and he has secured funds to pay all Gilas players salaries which would rival what the players could possibly receive as PBA rookies.  It's entirely likely that Pangilinan has offered Aguilar the same amount (or more likely m

ore) he would receive from the Whoppers.  Along with that, playing with Gilas assures Aguilar of not only star status, but also international exposure as Gilas will officially represent the Philippines in all international competitions, including the FIba Asia and the Asian Games.  For an American College player who still entertains thoughts of playing in the NBA, that kind of exposure is priceless.  

     Think this is all too much of a conspiracy theory?  Consider this.  Aside from being Gilas' benefactor and SBP President, Pangilinan also owns a PBA franchise (Talk and Text Tropang Texters) and is a part owner of the Burger King Whoppers.  Yup. The same team that Aguilar is said to be shafting.  Now, if this was all Aguilar and his agent's (Ronnie "Shoulder Rubber" Nathanielsz) doing, then one would think Pangilinan would be up

 in arms over two of his groups in conflict.  Instead, it has been several days and the man known as MVP has said nothing.

     So is Aguilar evil?  I think Aguilar was presented with enticing options, and he chose the one that enticed him the most.  While he did declare for the draft, he never signed a contract, so he never reneged on any deal.  Besides, it's not like he reneged on the Whoppers to play for another PBA team.  He chose to play for the country and the national team.  How's that for a good reason?

To Ban or Not to Ban

     Let's get real here.  Banning Aguilar forever is a bad bad idea for the PBA.  A 6 foot 11 baller with mad hops and excellent defensive timing, Aguilar is the Philippines' best big man of the future.  Depriving him of a PBA career deprives the PBA of a superstar who will put s

eats in the arena.  Meanwhile, trying to get the ban itself will prove to be a tough task.  The San Miguel-owned teams (San Miguel Beermen, Barangay Ginebra Kings and Purefoods Giants) could care less about the Whoppers, and having Aguilar out for three years means  he will be open to negotiations for other teams.  SMC would never pass on the chance to not only weaken the Whoppers but also have the

chance to snatch Aguilar away.  Meanwhile, I cannot imagine Talk and Text, a Pangilinan owned team, voting to ban Aguilar for joining a Pangilinan sponsored team.  That's four potential votes lost already and given that the other teams would also love the chance to snatch Aguilar for themselves, Alvarez has to face facts that he is screwed.

     Let's be clear here.  Aguilar is no saint.  While he claims his intention has always been to play for the national team, he could have done everyone a favor by not signing up for the draft.  In any case, though, he has broken no rules and as a FIlipino basketball fan, imagining him teaming up with C.J. GIles, Chris Tiu, Andy Barroca and Dylan Ababou in a team coached by Rajko Toroman excites the heck out of me.  I can wait for Aguilar's PBA debut for three years if it means we go deeper in future international tournaments.  As for the PBA's integrity?  Oh please. The league has been around for over thirty years.  They'll live.

photos courtesy of forums.interbasket.net and yumipitz.blogspot.com

Noy Noy for Prez?

     There has now been a growing and rumbling clamor for Noy Noy Aquino, the only son of Ninoy and Cory Aquino, to continue his parents' fight for true Philippine democracy by running for the Philippine Presidency in 2010.  Noy Noy has been deliberate, asking for some time before announcing his decision on whether to run or not.  Meanwhile, people from all sides of the political fence have raised the pros and cons of another Aquino presidency, and at the heart of the debate is Aquino being a "second generation" politician.  Will his pedigree serve him well? The sports world has its fair share of examples, which could help decide Noy Noy's fate.  

Inborn OJT

     Having a parent engaged in the same sport as you is considered a great advantage.  Growing up, you get an insider's view, especially when you join your parents when they work.  You get to see how things work, what to do and what to avoid, and perhaps, most importantly, you have your parents to look up to as an example.  

     None have benefitted more than Kobe Bryant of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, John Paxson of the NBA's Chicago Bulls and the WWE's Randy Orton.  Kobe, son of former NBA journeyman Joe "Jellybean" Bryant tagged along his dad's games both in the NBA and in Europe.  While Joe struggled to find a home in the NBA, averaging only 8.7 points in his stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers and Houston Rockets, his son Kobe watched, trained and then conquered the NBA game.  Kobe, named after the steak his dad enjoyed so much, has gone on to become a 4-time NBA champion, an NBA season and finals MVP, and an Olympic gold medallist. 

     John Paxson had a relatively more low key career than Kobe, but his career is certainly nothing to scoff at.  While John's dad Jim played a mere two seasons for the Minneapolis Lakers and Cincinnati Royals before retiring, John enjoyed great success in his 10 years as an NBA player.  The heady point guard won three straight NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, including the 1992-93 championship, where his dagger-like three buried the Phoenix Suns for good.  

     Pro Wrestling has put great importance on "second generation" superstars, essentially because they are "second generation."  They have a built-in understanding of the entire game, and none have taken better advantage of this than Randy Orton.  His dad, Hall of Famer "Cowboy" Bob Orton carved a great career for himself, becoming quite a ring innovator and a well-hated heel (bad guy).  Mostly, though, "Cowboy," was just known as a sidekick, backing up "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and then later on "Adorable" Adrian Adonis.  Over the years, though, his son Randy hung around, trained and blazed a more successful albeit still ongoing career.  This early, Randy has established himself on a higher pedestal than his dad, winning world championships on multiple occasions and being a part of two dominant groups, Evolution and the aptly-named Legacy.  Before anyone scoffs that achieving things in pro wrestling is more luck than hard work, keep reading on.

Shadow Boxing

     Then, the bad news.  While having illustrious parents can help facilitate your entry into that realm, some "second generation" stars have found that that same illustriousness becomes a big stumbling block as well.  If the parent has done well for himself before, the son or daughter is often compared with his/her parents.  Sometimes, that shadow is just to hard to escape from.  

     It is this shadow that has imprisoned the likes of Paolo and Derrick Hubalde, sons of the "Master of the Bank Shot" Freddie Hubalde.  While both Derrick and Paolo have carved out nice careers in the collegiate basketball ranks, neither has come even halfway close to what their dad has done.  A multiple title winner and considered one of the Philippine Basketball Association's greatest players, Freddie seems to have set a legacy too enormous to overcome.  

     Ditto for Damien Wilkins.  The former Seattle Super Sonic and Oklahoma City Thunder player has found an NBA job for five years, averaging an acceptable 7.6 points per game.  Unfortunately for him, he has a dad Gerald and an uncle Dominique, that have established long and impressive careers that dwarf his.  Dad Gerald was a solid NBA player, playing a total of 13 seasons (12 complete) averaging double

 figures in points in all but two seasons.  Gerald's best season, the 86-87 season, saw him average 19.1 points, more than double Damien's best scoring season, the '07-'08 season.  Uncle Dominique is an even tougher act to follow.  The "Human Highlight Reel" was a multiple time All Star, Dunk Contest winner and stunning playoff performer.  It's safe to say that if Damien WIlkins wants to leave a bigger mark than his predecessors, he's got one hell of a handicap.

     While Pro Wrestling has been knocked as a "pre-determined" show, it still demands perseverance and hard work like any sport.  "Second generation" superstars like The Rock, Carlito and Randy Orton have made marks in the WWE bigger than their fathers, others have suffered under the weight of carrying on their fathers' legacy.  Names like Scott Putsky and Sim Snooka never became household ones, despite their fathers' illustrious careers.  Scott Putsky had a mere short stint with the WWE, his career completely dwarfed by his dad's.

 "Polish Power" Ivan Putsky had a career that spanned over two decades with the WWE, giving him a chance to win the World Tag Team Championship (with Tito Santana) and a place in the WWE Hall of Fame.  Sim Snooka had a slightly longer and more successful career than Scott Putsky, winning a Tag Team Title as "Deuce" (with Domino) and he had a short stint with a still forming Legacy.  Unfortunately for him, it wasn't just Randy Orton that got bored with him.  He was unceremoniously released from Legacy and currently, he is nowhere to be found.  Undoubtedly, Sim has not even scratched what his dad Jimmy "Superfly" Snooka has achieved.  The Barefoot Jimmy had a career, filled with main events, for over twenty years, and it ended with his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame.  Even with all the "pre-destination" in pro wrestling and the distinct advantage given to "second generation" superstars, Scott Putsky and Sim Snooka discovered the glory their fathers achieved is an honor not everyone can attain.

The Verdict?

     Before voters like me decide on Noy Noy as a president, it is incumbent upon Aquino to ask himself some tough questions.  How will his being an Aquino affect him?  Will his parents' tremendous legacy be a motivation that pushes him or an obstacle that stymies him?  Does he consider himself to be Kobe or Paolo Hubalde?  Is he a Randy Orton or a Scott Putsky?  When he answers these questions, it will then be our turn to ask them.

photos courtesy of nba.com and wrestlingtradingcards.com