NBA Yearender: Uplifting Stories

     The latest NBA season has come to a close, and congratulations are in order for the Los Angeles Lakers, particularly Kobe Bryant and Coach Phil Jackson.  Now, with the off season in full swing, it's a great time to look back at what was a wonderful year.  First, I'll tackle the season's top stories that warmed and uplifted my heart.

1.  Orlando's Magic Run  - While many considered the Magic a strong team with Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson, few dared to predict how deep the Magic would go in the playoffs.  Just as I foresaw, Orlando put on an incredible run, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers (despite losing homecourt advantage and Dwight Howard for one game), overcame the defending champions Boston Celtics and dominating the Eastern Conference favorites Cleveland Cavaliers and its Golden Child, MVP Lebron James.  Despite losing to the eventual champs, the Magic gave the Lakers quite a scare as well.  Overall, it was a great season for the Magic, who proved tons of critics wrong.

2.   Derrick Rose and the Bulls' run to the playoffs - Facing great pressure to bring the Chicago Bulls back to the playoffs, things did not go well for the number one draft pick, hometown favorite Derrick Rose and the Windy City team.  After losing a majority of their games early into the season, the Bulls were already being written off and Rose being considered a rookie of the year by default.  Things turned around after the Bulls fixed their crowded guard rotation and trading for veterans Brad Miller and John Salmons.  Before people knew it, Chicago went on an incredible winning run, not only qualifying for the playoffs, but almost taking away fifth spot from the Miami Heat.  Then, the Bulls took the defending champions Boston Celtics into an epic seven game series, with Derrick Rose leading the charge.  He proved himself the true rookie of the year by taking charge when it counted the most.

3.  The Nuggets' Redemption - Almost all of the major players in the Nuggets rotation were written off, almost seemingly at the same time.  Chauncey Billups was supposed to be getting too old, JR Smith a basket case, Carmelo Anthony a "me-first" player who found individual stats more important than a championship, Chris Andersen a junkie, Nene a shadow of his former self after a bout with testicular cancer and Linas Kleiza a soft European player who couldn't contribute in the NBA and Kenyon Martin a player with both knees shot.  Collectively, though, they found a bond and trust in each other and it propelled them to the franchise's best finish since 1985.  Together, they helped each other overcome their bad reputations, seemingly showing a maturity and desire to win that showed not only their capability to win this year, but also for the next two years.

4.  Gina Marie Incandela - While this little cutie is not a household name anywhere outside of Orlando Magic fans' homes, her story is certainly a tremendous one.  Suffering from a kind of autism, PDD NOS, Gina Marie was not given much hope to be able to speak.  When her parents brought her to the University of Central Florida to help with her speech, Gina found herself expressing herself through singing; and sing she can.  Taking a liking to LeAnn Rimes' Star Spangled Banner performance, Gina began singing the national anthem, first in practice then later in major singing events.  When she sang for the Orlando Magic one time, the Magic won.  Then, she was asked to sing again.  The Magic won again.  Then, all of a sudden, she became the Magic's "secret weapon," with the Magic going 7-0 with her singing (6-0) in the playoffs until the Lakers spoiled the Magic's fun.  In any case, hers is an amazing story and the Magic, if they know what's good for them, will invite her again next season.

5.  Some Love for Kevin Love - When Kevin Mchale made another controversial decision to trade away top draft pick O.J. Mayo, fans collectively slapped their heads, thinking it was another lopsided trade a la Randy Foye for Brandon Roy.  The Wolves badly needed a guard, and Mayo seemed to be answer.  Instead, the Wolves traded him away, essentially for another rookie, Kevin Love.  Before the draft, Love was touted as a front court player who could, "make a decent baseball pass," not exactly the description of the savior the Wolves fans desperately sought.  As the season went on, however, O.J. Mayo, while scoring heavily, showed a lack of ability or willingness to pass to go along with his poor percentage shooting.  Meanwhile, Love finally received some love in Minnesota, earning it by posting averages of 11.1 points and 9.1 rebounds, including the most rookie double doubles.  Now, Wolves fans will look forward to a new era under a new GM, new coach and the promising front court duo of Love and Al Jefferson.

     While I'm sure the NBA season brought a lot more than five uplifting stories, these five were my personal favorites.  Do you have an uplifting NBA story from this past season? I invite you to post! 

(Coming soon: NBA's Downer Stories)

Lebron Simply Blew It

     Many people thought I was daft when I predicted an Orlando Magic victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in six games, but I held firm to my beliefs because in the end, I knew the Magic was simply a bad match up to the Cavs.  I knew how the Magic's lithe and quick frontline would pose problems for the Cavs' big but lumbering big men and I expected Lebron James' teammates would not provide enough support to lift the Cavaliers.  What I didn't expect though, was how bad Lebron James would blow it.  

     Forget about Lebron losing a chance to play in the NBA Finals on his Most Valuable Player season.  Forget about him losing to the less favored Orlando Magic despite finishing with the league-best 66 to 16 win loss record.  What Lebron blew was the opportunity to look like a classy guy.  

     After losing game 6 and the series to the Magic, James quickly retreated to the locker room, avoided the media and went straight to the team bus.  Most disappointingly, he never offered any congratulatory hugs or handshakes to the Magic players, even to his team USA teammate Dwight Howard.  Asked about his abrupt exit from the arena, the "King" explained, "It’s hard for me to congratulate somebody after you just lose to them,” he said. “I’m a winner. It’s not being a poor sport or anything like that. If somebody beats you up, you’re not going to congratulate them. That doesn’t make sense to me. I’m a competitor. That’s what I do. It doesn’t make sense for me to go over and shake somebody’s hand.”

     Come on Lebron.  Being a "winner" doesn't mean you don't congratulate the winner.  Recognizing and congratulating someone who has beaten you fair and square doesn't make you a loser; in fact, it makes you a bigger person worthy of adulation.  Even bitter rivals MAtt Hughes and Matt Serra congratulated each other after trying to kill each other in UFC 98.  Oscar de la Hoya found time and character to congratulate Manny Pacquiao after the Pacman beat him to a pulp.  

     There he was, Lebron James, a star athlete with transcendent popularity, a role model for kids all over the world with a chance to show them what true sportsmanship is all about.  He had a chance to show kids that sportsmanship is not just about playing fairly and cleanly and competing relentlessly.  It is, more importantly, accepting defeat and enjoying victory graciously Being the superstar James is, he simply can't do two out of three and expect the world to indulge him because of his youth and frustration.  Youth coaches in different sports from all around the world can try to teach kids about sportsmanship and graciousness, but in the end, kids' heroes like Kobe Bryant and James will impact the kids more with their behavior.  If he truly cared about helping kids and molding them into better people, he would have recognized his basketball camps with the youth in Akron, Ohio is not enough.  He should have seen this as a perfect opportunity to show kids how great and classy athletes take losing to worthy rivals.  He blew his chance to help educate kids about true and unadulterated sportsmanship.

     Lebron James is a tremendous athlete, one of those once-in-a-generation type athletes who will no doubt win many more accolades and championships, and I hate to think that this episode blemish a lasting legacy that he is destined to leave the world with.  I really hope he owns up to this boo boo of his.  He is once again presented with an opportunity to show kids proper behavior, to own up to one's mistakes and apologize properly.  Let's go Lebron.  Don't blow it this time.

Monkey Wrench into the NBA's Best Laid Plans

     It all started last summer, at the Beijing Olympics.  The U.S., hungry for redemption after their recent failure, brought along a team intent on winning.  It was the best team formed since the 1996 Olympics, and at the forefront were two huge, global stars, Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. Branded as leaders, the two elevated their games and brought home the gold medal.  Right then and there, the NBA sensed something great and licked their chops.  Kobe vs Lebron for the NBA Title.  Now that sounded like a blockbuster and the NBA started a novena, praying for  divine intervention to deliver them their dream finals match up.

     Lo and behold, as the season wore on, the NBA was beginning to smile.  Lebron and the Cavs razed through the Eastern Conference just as Kobe and the Lakers romped through out West.  With both teams entering their respective conference finals, the NBA's best laid plans for a blockbuster finals (with massive TV ratings) was so close David Stern could taste it.  Now, though, someone has thrown a monkey wrench or two into the well-oiled plan.  Enter the Orlando Magic and the Denver Nuggets.  

     As things stand now, the Magic and the Nuggets have taken away the two favorites' homecourt advantage, with the Magic leading the Cavs 1-0 and the Nuggets ties with the Lakers at 1 all.   Will these two teams, who are looking for redemption themselves, prove to be the proverbial monkey wrench or will they merely be cumbersome obstacles that will be hurdled?

     The Orlando Magic has not exactly been on everyone's radar when talking about who will win the Larry O'Brien trophy this year, and the boys from Orlando have taken the snub personally.  They now pose quite a threat to the Cavs and it's not just because they aren't the Pistons.  As shown in Game 1, Orlando had the Cavs beat on two ends.  

     First of all, Orlando's frontcourt is huge, but lithe and lightning-quick.  A front line featuring 7 foot Dwight Howard, 6-10 shooters Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu and 6-8 Michael Pietrus are simply too quick for the equally huge but lumbering front line of the Cavs.  While James can match up with any one of the Magic's forwards, he can't guard all of them at the same time.  In game one, while it was Howard's 30 points that lit up the scoreboard, the Cavs lost because of the other three forwards, with Hedo and Lewis combining for Orlando's final 17 points.  If the Cavs are to make it to the finals, like they told the world they would do, then their tall lumbering front line (Anderson "Sideshow Bob" Varejao guarding Rashard Lewis, are you serious?) must find a way to become light on their feet.

     Secondly, the Cavs played to Orlando's strength, which I believe is not their three point shooting but more so their defense.  Everyone reverted back to their "watch Lebron" playbooks, standing around hoping to get a pass for a spot-up three.  Although James had a monster game, going 20 of 30 from the field, it took too much out of James.  In fact, I think he passed up a shot on a late drive that could have won the game, simply because of fatigue.  All Star Mo Williams and Delonte West must regain their regular season shooting and aggressiveness and Zydrunas Ilgauskas must make Dwight Howard work on defense if they are to beat the Magic in this series.

     The Denver Nuggets almost became the poster child of how not to build an NBA roster as the past few years showed the Mile High team as a group of shoot first, players with immense talent but no will to win a championship.  What a difference an old and wise point guard makes.  Chauncey Billups has come into Denver and changed the team's outlook (and therefore) its chances this season.  The "new-look" Nuggets actually feature the same core of players, save for the enigmatic Chris "Birdman" Andersen, but they have shown a desire and will for teamwork and defense that was last seen on a Nuggets team when Dikembe Mutombo was wagging fingers at opponents.  They could pose problems for the Lake show because, as seen in Games 1 and 2, the Nuggets bring in a toughness and and offensive arsenal that have the Lakers on their heels.

     First of all, the Nuggets this year are tough, in a good basketball way.  They are showing a willingness and the health needed to bang bodies inside, once again threatening to expose Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom as softies playing in a tough guy's game.  Kenyon Martin, Nene and Birdman have relentlessly attacked the lanes for both offense and defense, taking the Houston Rockets model of bullying the Lakers inside.  If the Lakers want to make David Stern happy, they must dig deep, fight back especially inside the paint to grab rebounds and loose balls, shoot high percentage dunks and layups and block and change shots.

     Secondly, the Nuggets while successfully approximating the Rockets' toughness on defense, are infinitely more talented on offense.  Carmelo Anthony has shown, at least in these playoffs, that he deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as King James and he has a lot of help.  Linas Kleiza and J. R. Smith are bringing it from the bench, K-Mart and Nene have been active and useful on the offensive end (Heck, Nene even had 6 assists in game 2. 6!!! OMG! The Black Hole of basketball learned to pass!) and most importantly, Billups has a stability to keep the Nuggets calm through thick and thin.  The Nuggets are clicking on all cylinders offensively, and if Kobe wants to get a chance to win his first title without Shaq, he must lead his team not just in offense, but more so on the defensive end.  They must clog the lane and force the Nuggets into shooting from the outside.  

     So now David Stern is beginning to sweat.  His dream blockbuster finals scenario is being pushed onto the brink of oblivion.  Will the Cavs and the Lakers bounce back and give Stern a reason to smile or will Dwight Howard and Carmelo Anthony be the Team USA teammates playing in the finals?

     As for me, you all know I love ruining best laid plans, so I will be in my usual place, eagerly awaiting Cleveland's and L.A.'s impending disappointments.  

How Now, Pacquiao?

     With his stunning second round demolition of Ricky Hatton last May 2, 2009, Manny Pacquiao is on top of the boxing world, with some claiming he is history's best.  Meanwhile, the very world the,  "Pacman" had enthralled is still under his spell, as everyone is awaiting word on what he is to do next.  Currently, Manny has been rightfully taking it easy and celebrating his latest conquest.  Pretty soon, though, he will have to decide what to do next.  Whether it be about his legendary boxing career or his polarizing political one, everyone seems to have an opinion on what Manny should do.  Of course, being the meddler that I am, I have some suggestions too.

Boxing Career

     Obviously, if Pacquiao stopped now, he would leave with a tremendous career and legacy that will be remembered by the world for generations to come.  I think, however, leaving this early will leave his legacy in question.  There are some unanswered questions I think he should answer before he retires and I have a plan of action that is not only feasible, but also fit perfectly into his desire to retire early and to run for congress.

     First, Manny should take on the winner of the fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr., the man he replaced as boxing's pound for pound king or one of his greatest rivals, Juan Manuel Marquez.  Pretty Boy Floyd has talked some trash since announcing his return and some have already drank from the irradiated Kool Aid he has been serving.  Taking on Mayweather will finally answer the question of who is the best boxer in this open era, and Manny should not let an opportunity pass him by.  As for fighting Juan Manuel Marquez in what should be a farewell fight for both pugilists, Manny has the opportunity to finally rid himself of the pesky Mexican.  As Manny has been enjoying number one status in the "P4P" rankings, many consider Juan Manuel Marquez as "1A."  A third and final fight would be a fan's dream fight as we finally close the chapter on a wild and exciting rivalry.  This fight could indeed happen sometime in December, giving Pacquiao ample time to rest and prepare his political party for the May 2010 elections.

     Second, Manny should take a good look at Miguel Cotto.  While Cotto possesses power that could mean trouble for Pacquiao, I feel it is worth the risk because beating Cotto would give Manny a sixth world title.  This would enable him to match his idol, Oscar de la Hoya's belt career belt haul.  Now that would be a great way to end a career.  This fight could be penciled in at around September or October of 2010, giving Manny lots of time to rest and train after the elections.

Political Career

     I don't like the idea of Manny running for congress as much as anyone, but with having "Kabayan" Noli "extortion" de Castro as Vice President (and maybe even President) and Lito"the sound of silence" Lapid as Senator, how can we tell Pacquiao he isn't ready to lead us?  He should run if he truly wanted to and believe it or not, I would seriously consider voting for him if he ran in our district.  I, however, have an even better political plan for Pacquiao.

    If it were up to me, I'd have Pacquiao become president... of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP).  For years, athletes have begged to have former athletes lead their respective Nation Sports Associations (NSA), so that the leadership could empathize better, and Manny leading the ABAP would be great.  He knows boxing, its training, scouting, weight cutting, etc, and he would be in a prime position to advise ABAP on how to train and care for our boxers.  I understand amateur and professional boxing are different animals, but surely his talent would not be dominant on the pro ring alone.  Meanwhile, his current fame will go a long way in uniting a usually fractured ABAP leadership.  Furthermore, his international stardom will bring a level of credibility to our NSA, which would help garner more respect from the international boxing committee.  This, in turn, would help lessen the questionable judging we are always a victim of.  

     If Pacquiao is really determined to go along way politically, he can serve the ABAP for a while, then run for the presidency... of the Philippine Olympic Committee.  If Manny serves the ABAP well as president and unites it, then he deserves to be POC president.  In this position, Manny can take care of all the athletes and his well-respected character and discipline transcends all sports, so uniting the athletes is certainly doable.  I mean, if he can unite an entire nation enough to stop crime and war, he should be able to do it in sports.  I know he has mentioned that all he wants to do by running for congress is to help the people.  What better way to help than to unite a nation through sports?

     In the end, it's really up to Manny.  He's the one with five titles in five divisions.  He's the P4P King.  I think, though, my plan would certainly appeal to him.  After all, my suggestions for his boxing career would close his career and legacy elegantly, while my suggestions for him politically would help him achieve his goals.  

     The best part?  After he executes my plan successfully, he would still be young enough to run for congress.

Liking the National Team

     With the Philippine National Basketball Team coached by Yeng Guiao having played a total of five tune up games already, I thought it was high time to assess this team.  I watched all five of their games, including their series against Australia Hoopdreams, which I caught at Araneta Coliseum's courtside.  

The Good Stuff

Speed - Man, this team is fast and quick.  It looks like Coach Guiao is looking to run opponents to the ground to make up our size disadvantage, and he certainly picked up the right tools.  Players 1 through 12 can all run, and if they keep practicing together, they can form a formidable fastbreak attack.

Athleticism - Speed is not all we need to make up our lack of size and athleticism is that missing link.  With players like Gabe Norwood, Arwind Santos and Kelly Williams, our team has long-limbed, high-leaping bodies that when motivated properly, will be apt to tap loose balls, gather steals, grab rebounds and run.  

Camaraderie - This early, the team seems to have good camaraderie, especially in terms of the players liking each other.  Based on what I've seen during games and even during time outs and lulls, the players do genuinely like playing with each other.

Jared Dillinger - Among all the players, I am most surprised and pleased with Jared DIllinger.  The 6'4" guard has shown tremendous heart and passion, and I am surprised at his quickness, especially on his drives to the basket.  While I thought he might be the first player cut, he looks to be a more complete player than most as he can make long jumpers, drive the ball to the basket, bring the ball down court as a point and defend players from the 1, 2 and 3 positions.  I really wouldn't mind seeing him start for our team.

The Bad Stuff

Tentativeness - This has been, in my opinion, the disease that infects all our pro player-enforced national teams.  When all these unselfish superstars play together, they play like an All Star team, preferring to keep passing and passing, consciously avoiding being a "selfish" player that takes all the shots.  This disease actually makes our teams, including this one, ineffective in the half court game, with everyone passing and passing until the shot clock begins to run out and we are forced into a bad shot.  We would be best served to have a couple of players be the designated "go-to-guys" for half court plays.  Jay Jay Helterbrand, James Yap or a focused Willie Miller would be good candidates for this job.

In Between Game or lack thereof - While our players can all make threes (except maybe Asi Taulava) and finish strong at the rim, it seems none of our players are comfortable taking in between shots.  I know that most teams play zone defense, but having our players take (and make) pull up jumpers could help free up the lane for future incursions or post up plays.

James Yap - My goodness.  Has celebrity gone to his head or is he just going through a shooting slump?  After his first game against the Australians, Yap has been relatively bad, considering the reason why he is on the team is because he is supposedly our premiere three point shooter.  He has been missing consistently, even on open looks and if he can't make those, maybe he should consider playing defense.  And yes James, playing "matador" defense, where you look like a Spanish bullfighter is not playing defense.  If he keeps missing and not break out of his slump, would it be too late to ask Don Don Hontiveros to join the team?

     Overall, the National Basketball Team is on the right track and I think they will look even better with more practices under their belt.  Building a running team will take time as the players need to learn the little habits of their teammates so that they will run the fastbreak like they were a team that has been playing forever.  When the players get the hang of each other, though, Asia better watch out. 

Will the Doctors Decide NBA Playoffs?

     I'm back! I've been off the writing block for over a month, and it feels good to be back.  Speaking of being on the shelf, this year's NBA playoffs starting tomorrow is loaded with players on the shelf.  I'd like to take a look at each of the teams with injury woes, and how it will affect their chances.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

L.A. Lakers - The prohibitive title favorites were on a roll the whole year, finishing with the West's best record and homecourt advantage at least until the NBA Finals. What makes this playoff run even more exciting for them is that Andrew Bynum is back and looking healthy.  That means that their line up is at full capacity and the rest of the NBA should watch out.

San Antonio Spurs - The seemingly ubiquitous Spurs managed to win the South West Division via a close victory on their last game.  The playoff run, though, is going to be rough as they not only face the dangerous Mavericks, but they will miss spitfirish guard Manu Ginobili for the playoffs.  Another problem for the Spurs will be Tim Duncan and his bum knees as even the usually silent superstar has commented that he's playing on "half a knee." 

Portland Trail Blazers - The young Trail Blazers are back in the playoffs and Rip City is ablaze.  The line up looks good with young and now healthy players and they will only miss high-flying guard Martell Webster who has barely played this year anyway. Of course, they should take care and not let Greg Oden sneeze too hard, lest he injure himself again.

Houston Rockets - The always dangerous but oft-injured Rockets were a hair away from the number 2 spot but will now open their playoffs on the road in Portland.  Tracy Mcgrady, the team's go-to-guy for the past few seasons, has been declared out for the season and while even the Rockets admit his absence is a big hole, the 5th seed has shown they can play without T-Mac.  In the playoffs though, will they miss him?

New Orleans Hornets - The surprise season of last year can also be considered a surprise team this year, limping into the playoffs as a 7th seed.  While Peja Stojakovic and Tyson Chandler will play as the Hornets attempt another run at the Western Conference, they have not looked 100 percent in their last few games.  Even James Posey is playing with a bad left hand and the Hornets bench is not exactly over pouring with talent.  Can Chris Paul be that good and carry them all with his good legs?

Utah Jazz - The Jazz are quite disappointed with finishing 8th, but they could give the Lakers trouble when healthy.  It looks like everyone will be in the line up for the Jazz, but Mehmet Okur will still be battling a nasal infection going into the first round.  The up and down play of Carlos Boozer and Andrei Kirilenko have not exactly inspired confidence in the success of the recovery of their surgically-repaired legs.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Cleveland Cavaliers - The NBA's best team is riding high on their franchise best winning record, and more importantly, Lebron James, Mo Williams and Zydrunas Ilgauskas good health.  The Cavs expect a long playoff run as their only injured player is Ben Wallace who has a bum leg.  The Cavs, however, have barely missed him with the inspired play of Anderson Varejao and Joe Smith.

Boston Celtics - The Big Three is now the Big Two, with KG out for the season.  While the defending champions are still quite formidable, Garnett was the heart and soul of their defense, which was what they used to beat teams.  Will Kendrick Perkins, Leon "the Show" Powe and Big Baby Davis step up to cover the gaping hole KG left?  If they don't, there will be a new champion in the NBA.

Orlando Magic - Dwight Howard may be Superman, but too bad he couldn't spread the health.  Jameer Nelson is out for the season with Rafer Alston trying to replace him.  Meanwhile, the heart of the Magic's vaunted three point shooting, forwards Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu are not 100 percent.  Lewis seems to be mostly fine, missing the last two games more as a precaution, but Turkoglu's sprained ankle will limit him in the first round.  Can Howard be dominating enough to carry the Magic until the forwards get healthy?

Philadelphia 76ers - People can talk all they want about how Elton Brand did not fit into their system, but battling Dwight Howard would have been more doable with Brand patrolling the lane.  While attention will be on Andre Miller and Andre Iguodala, the health of Thaddeus Young who just came from the injury list, may be a key to the 76ers playoff hopes.  Will he be healthy enough and play well enough to offset Rashard Lewis' presence?

Chicago Bulls - The Bulls seemed to have been headed to the lottery, but a late run has gotten them the 7th seed in the playoffs, playing a KG-less Celtics.  For them to pull off the upset, they must disregard the absence of Luol Deng, who is out for the season.  Meanwhile, they must pray for a quick recovery for John Salmons, who is one of their best players, as he seems slow to recovery from his groin injury.  Will Salmons be healthy enough to give Paul Pierce a run for his money?

Detroit Pistons - Oh how the mighty have fallen.  After 6 consecutive Eastern Conference finals appearances, the end may be near for this core group of players.  Not only will they battle the red-hot Cavs, they must do it without Allen Iverson, whose on and off-court troubles have led Pistons fans to miss Chauncey Billups.  Another question mark is the health of Rasheed Wallace, who seems to be a step slow this whole season.  Whether or not the slowness is due to a physical or mental injury, the Pisotons will need 'Sheed to have a chance.

     The playoffs start tomorrow and time will tell if these injury issues will help decide the outcome of the Finals.  Will injuries lead to the NBA's preferred Lakers-Cavs match ups, or will this year's version of the playoffs produce more than its fair share of upsets?   

Breaking (Well-Conditioned) Hearts

     In my recent bowling league night, I bowled a total of thirteen consecutive strikes, and while only twelve is needed to bowl a perfect game, I didn't get one because my 13 strikes were split between two games.  I bowled 7 to finish the first game and 6 to start the second.  To make matters worse, I missed the cash prize given for games over 255 because neither of my games were over 255 (242 and 253)! What a heartbreaker!  

     My own heartbreak got me thinking about sport's biggest heartbreaks.  Here are some that I find to be history's biggest heartbreakers and heartbreaks.

Heartbreaker: Steffi Graf

Victims: Jana Novotna and Martina Hingis

     Both Novotna and Hingis, chasing the prestigious French Open Championships, both played tremendous first sets and second sets to bring their finals match to match point.  Graf, however, refused to wilt under the pressure and displayed the fiery form that won her 22 Grand Slam titles.  In both instances, Graf escaped the second set, and then thoroughly dominated the third set, much to the delight of the crowd and the chagrin of the other finalist.  While Novotna and Hingis both retired with their respectve Grand Slam Titles, I'm betting neither will ever forget how Mrs. Andre Agassi broke their hearts.

Heartbreaker: Los Angeles Lakers

Victims: Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings

     On their way to three NBA Championships and numerous trips to the NBA finals, the Los Angeles Lakers, led by the trio of Phil Jackson, Shaq O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, made sure they broke several hearts along the way.  The first to experience the pain would be the Blazers of the 2000 season.  Leading big in the fourth quarter of Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals, it would seem the Rasheed Wallace-Steve Smith led Blazers would get to taste the NBA Finals.  Unfortunately, the ultra-talented squad, which also featured Bonzi Wells and Arvydas Sabonis, went through an inexplicable dry spell in the last four minutes of the game.  This paved the way for a historic comeback by the Lakers, including a tremendous ally-oop from Kobe to Shaq.  That loss turned out to be last hurrah for the Blazers as that same talented team soon began to implode.  In the coming years, that team became known as the Jail Blazers and soon after that, Portland missed the playoffs for the first time in over two decades.

     The Sacramento Kings were also a talented bunch who fell victim to the Lakers date with Destiny.  The Kings, led by Chris Webber and Vlade Divac, looked to have the Lakers number and needed Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals to take the Lakers to the brink.  However, a broken play by the Lakers resulted in a bad shot, a ball tapped to the outside and alas, that dagger three by Robert Horry.  The Kings and their fans never lived that shot down and never really challenged for the title again. 

Heartbreaker: Shawn Michaels

Victims: All wrestling fans in the universe

     It is only fitting that the Heartbreak Kid would be in this list.  While wrestling is entirely scripted, it doesn't mean the fans won't have their hearts broken.  When Nature Boy Ric Flair, a former 16-time World Champion, was punished by Vince McMahon, he couldn't afford to lose a match, lest he be banished to retirement.  Despite this, the Nature Boy still yearned to battle the best, who at that time, he deemed to be Michaels.  So in Wrestlemania 24, Flair fought tooth and nail against the younger Michaels, almost to a tie, until Michaels finished him off with a super kick to the face.  While almost everyone expected the WWE Hall of Famer Flair to lose and retire, his loss that night still triggered tears to fall from the thousands in attendance, including the victor, Michaels.

Heartbreaker: Bal David

Victims: San Miguel Beermen

     Despite a depleted line up propped up only by import Jeff Ward and Nelson Asaytono, the San Miguel Beermen still managed to put up a tremendous fight against sister team, the Gordon's Gin Boars (Ginebra).  The two teams engaged in a fierce semi-finals knockout match, which even went into overtime.  With the Beermen in the lead with just seconds to go and the Boars having no timeouts, it seemed the underdogs were about to steal it.  The Flash, Bal David, however, threw up a seemingly-impossible half court shot that drilled a dagger into many a beermen fan's heart.  While San Miguel and Jeff Ward would be reunited for another go the following year, they never did win a championship together.

     Do you know any heartbreakers more gut wrenching than these? Comment or send me an email at plated_thrills@yahoo.com 

NBA All Star Line Ups (Rants and Rave)

     As much as I claim to be a different and unique individual, there are some things that I enjoy doing just like everyone else.  Take the line ups for the 2009 NBA All Star Game in Phoenix, for example.  Just like everyone else, I've got my rants and raves about them too.

West

Starters: C Yao Ming, F Tim Duncan, F Amar'e Stoudamire, G Kobe Bryant, G Chris Paul

Rants and Raves: Not too many rants actually.  I think the fans got it right this time.  While I would have liked a small forward to be a starter, these five guys have been playing at a high level, especially this year.

Reserves: C Shaquille O'Neal, F David West, F Dirk Nowitzki, F Pau Gasol, G Brandon Roy, G Chauncey Billups and G Tony Parker

Rants:  David West has indeed morphed into a great player for the Hornets, but his inclusion this year leaves a bad taste in my mouth.  I think forwards Al Jefferson (23.2 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game) and Paul Millsap (15.1 points, 9.5 rebounds 1 block and 1 steal per game) have had amazing years and either would have been better than West.  West may be a great player, but not this year.  Tony Parker may be playing great, but maybe I'd feel better if he had played more games this season.  I would have loved it if Kevin Durant, who has been on a scoring tear (22.6 points 6.5 rebounds and 1.3 blocks), was given the spot instead.

Rave: I definitely love the inclusion of Chauncey Billups instead of Camelo Anthony.  Obviously Mr. Big Shot is the main reason for the Nuggets' surge and he deserves an All Star slot for doing what Melo has not been succeeding in (leading the Nuggets).

East

Starters: C Dwight Howard, F Kevin Garnet, F Lebron James, G Allen Iverson and G Dwayne Wade  

Rants: I was hoping that the same populace smart enough to vote an African American genius into the White House would be smart enough to not vote in Allen Iverson, but you can't have everything.  Young point guards like Jameer Nelson (17.5 points 3.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists) and Devin Harris (21.5 points, 3.1 rebounds and 6.4 assists) deserve that spot that AI currently has.

Rave: Thank goodness KG has enough fans to prevent a Yi Jian Lan travesty.  Late into the voting process Yi, aided by votes from China, actually threatened to overtake KG for a starter spot. Whew.

Reserves: C Chris Bosh, F Paul Pierce, F Danny Granger, F Rashard Lewis, G Jameer Nelson, G Devin Harris and G Joe Johnson

Rants: Paul Pierce was, is and will be Boston's main man and hero, but he has been less "The Man" and more "The Invisible Man" lately, especially in Boston's slide in early January.  Rashard Lewis is just a beneficiary of Dwight Howard's dominating presence and Stan Van Gundy's three point shooting system so I think the East should have dropped these two forwards and instead taken in Antawn Jamison, who has been a true professional (21.1 points, 9.1 rebounds,1.3 steals), toiling and toiling for the Wizards.  Another great pick would've been G Mo Williams (17.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists) who has been instrumental in helping Lebron make the Cavs dominant.

Rave: I'm glad that Joe Johnson is being more and more recognized for the stud that he is.  Atlanta is significant only as far as Johnson makes them.  Year in and year out, he has been the main man for the Hawks and it's always nice when a non-flashy but great player gets an All Star nod. I was also glad to see the Pacers' do-it-all guy Granger get a nod.  He has been carrying the Pacers all year and it's a nice reward for him.

     I know that while I have my rants against the All Star Picks, many will have their own rants and raves about my choices.  Let me know by commenting here or at plated_thrills@yahoo.com

Bowling When It Counts

     Bowling has been in the news a lot lately.  Unfortunately, it's more because of politicking by people who can barely play, and all that politicking, as we all know, amounts to nothing.  This week, though, the bowling world gets a chance to do things that really count.

     On Friday, January 30, 2009, the Xavier Bowling Team, together with the Xavier High School FACAMPA (the faculty and staff organization), in cooperation with BOSE speakers, presents the 6th Xavier Charity Bowl at the E-Lanes Bowling Center along Ortigas Avenue.  For the 6th consecutive year, the Xavier School family, consisting of students, teachers, parents and guests gather together to bowl in a friendly but nonetheless competitive tournament to raise funds for the Xavier School Educational Trust Fund (XSETF).  While no prizes except medals and donated goods are awarded to the winners, more and more people are joining the Charity Bowl to aid this noble cause.  This XSETF gives talented and deserving students a chance to receive a Xavier School education despite their financial handicap.  This year, the Xavier Bowling Team hopes to increase the funds raised, to continue its tradition of increasing the funds raised each and every year since the charity bowl's inception.  

     While the Xavier Charity Bowl is enjoyed by the entire Xavier family, everyone is invited to take part in the event, as competitors, spectators or even sponsors.  For more information, you may contact Coach Sharwin at plated_thrills@yahoo.com.

     Meanwhile, on Saturday January 31, 2009, bowling shifts to the Green Valley Bowling Center along C-5 as the bowling community urges everyone to participate in the Bayanihan Tournament.  SEA Games Gold Medallist and bowling hero Joonee Gatchalian was recently diagnosed with diabetes and glaucoma and he will be undergoing surgery to combat his blindness.  Unfortunately, only one eye may be saved due to the severity of his glaucoma.  With his medical bills piling up, Joonee needs help to defray these costs.  The Bayanihan Tournament hopes to raise funds, hoping that this time, the country that Joonee has served proudly as a national team member, comes together to serve him.

     The tournament features a simple 8 game with handicap format, with the winner taking a PhP 30, 000 first prize.  There are two squad times competitors can play in, namely the 1 p.m. and the 5 p.m. squad.  Those who cannot play but are willing to donate may do so at Green Valley on Saturday, where hopefully Joonee would be recovered enough from surgery to be there.  For more information please contact Louie Chuaquico at 0917 8120506.

     Both of these causes are very close to my heart and I am looking forward to participating in both these events.   I am hoping my brothers and sisters who bowl will too, and if you can't bowl, why not just come to support it?  I know I won't be the only one thankful for your support.

Sports' Best Monickers

      A lot of sports figures have become household names throughout the world.  No doubt, their unique and astounding skills have a lot to do with their enviable fame, but sometimes, their monickers or nicknames help tremendously too.  Here are some of my favorite sports monickers, names that are not only effective for name recall, but also quite fun too.

UFC/MMA - While names like "The Natural", "Rush" and "The Spider" dominate the win column and the, "Who is the greatest?" debate, my all time favorite monicker still belongs to Ultimate Fighter Alum Keith Jardine.  The bald mixed martial artist who defeated big names like Brandon Vera and Chuck Lidell is now called the "Dean of Mean."  Imagine that.  "The Dean of Mean" Keith Jardine.  What's cooler than that?

Runner ups - Huntington Beach Bad Boy, The Irish Hand Grenade, The World's Most Dangerous Man

Boxing - "Pacman" Pacquiao and "Money" Mayweather are certainly atop the pound for pound rankings, but in terms of monickers?  In my mind, nobody tops rising Filipino boxing star Donnie Nietes.  The boxer will soon be fighting at the Araneta Coliseum is known simply as, "Ahas."  Yeah, many boxers have been called reptiles before, but the name sounds so much cooler in Filipino.  Besides, Ahas actually brings a live one wrapped around him as he enters the ring.

Runner ups - Hands of Stone, El Terrible

NBA - Many NBA players simply use their initials or a few syllables of their name as their monickers, but some players have some great monickers as well.  Tops on that list would have to be Pete Maravich's.  One of the greatest players to ever play, this point guard revolutionized basketball, dribbling and passing, in particular.  Along with his trademark loose gray socks, is his monicker, "Pistol." Now that's a name.

Runner ups - Magic, Glyde, Mailman

PBA - In the PBA, dozens of players have monickers, thanks to our highly-imaginative commentators.  Of course, with a huge selection, there still has to be a clear winner.  For me, the coolest would still have to be Ricardo Brown's.  The original Fil-Am guard, could play both guard positions and most importantly could shoot from everywhere on the court.  He moved so well on the court that it was only fitting that he be called, "The Quick Brown Fox."  Yeah, it's a mouthful, but it's way cool, huh?

Runner ups - Captain Marbel, The Ninja, Skywalker, Robocop

WWE - Of course, I would have to end the article on wrestling.  Sports entertainment would never be the same with the monickers.  In fact, it would be reduced to half with them.  While most monickers are creative, some are just plain better.  Number one on my list would be "Stone Cold" Steve Austin.  I mean how else could you explain his meteoric rise into stardom with his limited physical skills? The Texas Rattlesnake certainly owes a lot to his estranged wife, wh is credited for helping him come up with his enduring monicker.

Runner ups - Demon of Death Valley, Heartbreak Kid, Nature Boy  

     Almost everyone loves monickers, but I'm pretty sure everyone will have their own favorites.  So what are your favorites?  Write in your comments or send me an email at plated_thrills@yahoo.com  

New Year's Resolutions For Sports

     Everyone makes new year's resolutions lists  or wish lists during the new year, and those lists are usually left undone or unrealized.  In any case, making a list for sports is not just wishful thinking, but also great fun as well.  So here are my new year's resolutions if I were these prominent sports figures.  

Roger Federer (Tennis) - To show more emotion in matches and finding a way to defeat Rafael Nadal.

Jose "Peping" Cojuangco (POC)  - To not meddle in sports anymore and just retire NOW.

Stephon Marbury (NBA) - To quit whining and cooperate with a buyout that helps the New York Knicks move on.

Baron Davis (NBA) - To get in better shape and start working harder to help the Clippers.

Jeff Hardy (WWE) - To stay out of trouble and maintain the status of being the WWE's most popular superstar.

Manny Pacquiao (Boxing) - To concentrate on defeating Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayweather this year.

Brock Lesnar (UFC) - To learn submission defense in preparation for either Nogueira or Mir.

Chot Reyes (PBA) - To give Ren Ren Ritualo more playing time.

Chris Tiu - To play more basketball, either in the national team or the PBA, and do less TV.

Steve Hontiveros (POC) - To either grow a pair and actually work for the betterment of sports or retire permanently for the betterment of sports.

John "Bradshaw" Layfield (WWE) - To get in better shape because flab doesn't invoke fear or hatred.

Brandon Vera (UFC) - To bring back the fire in the heart and the firepower in the fists and knees lest he fade into obscurity.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (Boxing) - To put up or shut up regarding Manny Pacquiao.

Floyd Mayweather Sr. (Boxing) - To just plain shut up.

Marlou Aquino (PBA) - To actually earn my paycheck.

Kenneth Duremdes (PBA) - To give up plans for playig and just concentrate on coaching.

     Like I mentioned earlier, resolution lists are usually left undone, but new year's day is also a great time to hope and wish, right?

  

NBA's "Jack in the Boxes"

     Year in and year out, NBA superstars bring out their A games, being models of consistency.  Every year, too, there are "Jack in the Boxes," players who have flown under the radar before suddenly exploding into the world's consciousness.  In this young season, here are my picks for Jack in the Boxes.

OJ Mayo, Memphis Grizzlies - He was a highly-touted pick and a high school phenom, but so was Kwame Brown.  When Kevin McHale traded him away for Kevin Love and Mike Miller, I began to sense a little bit of Kwame in him.  This kid, though, has smashed all expectations, being the first and only rookie since Larry Bird to score double figures in his first 20 games as a rookie.  He is obviously going to be a cornerstone for the Grizzlies' rebuilding project, making Kevin McHale look really bad for trading him away.

Jose Juan Barea, Dallas Mavericks - This former bench rider was given an opportunity to shine recently, and did he ever.  In the past week, Barea averaged 20 points, 4 assists and 2.5 rebounds as a starter for the Mavs.  If he keeps this up, people will stop talking about how the Mavs are in trouble and Jerry Stackhouse will step up his search for a team that will give him minutes.

JR Smith, Denver Nuggets - I've always thought this guy could play, but I never thought he could get past his craziness to become a reliable player.  This year, Smith has not drunk from the tainted Kool-Aid container and has become a vital cog to the Nuggets' great winning run. This year, the sixth man has averaged 12.4 points and 4 rebounds per game.  More importantly, he is not throwing up wild threes and driving to the basket more.  Nuggets fans have to hope his uneasy truce with Coach George Karl holds up.

Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics - This young point guard was already a big contributor in the Celts' title run last year, but he has stepped up this year.  While the Big Three remains the Big Three, Rondo is now playing big, averaging 10.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 7.6 assists and 2.3 steals.  Already achieving his first triple double recently, Rondo looks to figure in the who's the point guard of the future conversation soon.

 Rudy Fernandez, Portland Trail Blazers - While he was stellar during Spain's run in the Olympics, I wondered how his skinny 6'6" frame could stand up in the NBA.  I got my answer as Rudy has become a great spark off the bench for the upstart Blazers.  Fernandez is averaging over 11 points a game and he shoots at a competent 43.4 percent from beyond the arc.  If the Blazers make the playoffs this season, rest assured he will have a hand in that success story.

     The question now is, will they continue to be the biggest NBA surprises this season or will new players take their cue and step up their game as well?

PBA Surprise Packages

     Going into the second round of the elimination round of the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup, several players have performed way beyond expectations.  These are what I call the "surprise packages," and for their teams, Christmas came early.

Mac Mac Cardona (Talk and Text Tropang Texters) - Captain Hook was already playing well and working hard last season, but who could have predicted this blazing run he is on?  Apart from leading his team and the league in scoring, Cardona also posted 32 and 42 point games back to back.  Cardona is benefitting from a Talk and Text team that is all too willing to defer to him on offense and there seems to be no indication that the team wil look for anyone else to lead the offense in the future.  If he continues on this run, Coach Yeng Guiao may have to add him to the national team roster.

TY Tang (Rain or Shine Elastopainters) - Overshadowed by two higher-profile rookies, Tang has silently gained and then retained a spot in Coach Caloy Garcia's rotation.  Despite his recent two game slump where he has just averaged two points, Tang has become a pleasant surprise, even leading his team to a victory by scoring a career-high 24 points.  His reliable outside shooting and cat-quick drives ensure that ROS can keep their running game going.  The Elastopainters are certainly hoping he can snap out of his slump ASAP.

Bon Bon Custodio (San Miguel Beermen) - The Bonfire, as Quinito Henson calls him, was certainly not in everyone's radar when the conference started, but the spitfirish guard has everyone's attention now.  He has an uncanny ability to score on both drives to the hoop and mid -range floaters.  What is most impressive though is that he seems in control and doesn't force his shots.  Look for the Beermen to trust him even more as they go further into the conference.

Joe Devance  (Alaska Aces)  - I got on his case early in the conference because of his performance for Welcoat, but it seems all he needed was a team system to shine in (or me harsh words).  Alaska seems to have found a role that fits him well, and he has responded with great games after struggling in his first two games.  The Aces' recent drubbing of the Tropang Texters featured Devance's great year so far with him scattering 21 points to go with his 12 rebounds.  It seems Big Joe has found a home with the Aces.

Larry Rodriguez, Gabby Espinas (Red Bull Barako) - Coach Yeng has always been known to get the most of his players and every season, he seems to make a star out of some previous unknown.  This conference, his rookie Larry Rodriguez, and new pick up Gabby Espinas seem to fit the bill.  Seemingly undersized for PF/C, Rodriguez and Espinas battle against the giants in the paint daily and they have been winning their fair share of battles.  Bot have shown great offensive rebounding skills and reliable jumpers.  It's no surprise the Barakos are holding their own this conference. 

In Philippine Sports, Obama's Dream continues to be a Holy Grail

     The recent US elections had the Americans show the world that they are, indeed, ready for change.  They elected Barack Obama as their 44th President, making him the first African American president.  Being overshadowed by this historic election with worldwide implications is a smaller election that is no less important to us Filipinos.

     On November 28, 2008, the different heads of the National Sports Associations will elect a new Philippine Olympic Committee President, along with the other board members and officers.  Running the respective campaigns are incumbent POC President Jose "Peping" Cojuangco of Equestrian and Shooting top honcho Art Macapagal.

     Everyone, even the politicians themselves, says that politics has no place in sports, but as early as last year, it has become clear that politics has once again entrenched itself in this POC election.  Cojuangco, the POC President that was acclaimed into office, has finally encountered a serious threat from Macapagal, who seems to have garnered allies in his quest to change and improve Philippine sports. However, the former congressman has made several moves to ensure his stay as head of POC.  Now, some of his staunchest allies in the POC are entrenched in controversies, all related to keeping the balance of power in his favor.

     Mark Joseph, the swimming head, has been facing raps because apparently, he was only supposed to serve as a transition president until the elections, but he has continued to serve (is that even the right word?) as president for several years.  A group of concerned parents and swimmers have questioned his stay, and while months ago the POC promised to hear their case, the story and the complaint have now been effectively quashed.  Whatever happened to Joseph's promise to face the group and the facts that they have?

     The archery head, his name escapes my mind, is also embroiled in controversy.  According to Cojuanco's own nephew, the "incumbent" Archery prez has submitted an "irrevocable" resignation months ago, but now, this Archery head not only plans to vote in the POC elections, he will also be running for a board seat under Peping's ticket.  According to Peping, the resignation was never "accepted" so he is still the Archery head.  Why was the resignation not accepted?

     Steve Hontiveros, the bowling president and ultimate Peping supporter, will get to be president until December but apparently he will run for reelection in January.  Just recently, the Pasig Bowling Association (PBA), Hontiveros' association , has announced it now has 1000 members, thereby giving the PBA an unprecedented amount of votes for next year's Bowling elections.  An insider was made to finally admit that the membership fees of the 1000 "members" of the PBA (who are apparently PLDT employees), a number unheard of in the history of Philippine bowling, was  paid for by one Peping Conjuangco.  Wow. Will these 1000 members play in the PBA Open this week? 

     So what do the three controversial heads and issues have to do with the POC elections?  All three are penciled in as votes for Cojuangco on November 28.  I guess there's no better way to thank these three than helping them keep their positions in their respective NSAs and giving them prime positions in the POC.  Just recently, Peping Cojuangco assailed the Macapagal team, even saying, "Is winning that important to them?"  Well, Mr. (former) Congressman, right back at you.

     Macapagal is no angel either, but right now, he represents a change Philippine Sports so desperately needs.  Will he be great?  I don't know, but the incumbent will definitely be no better.  In his tenure, he has come up with the worst showing in the SEA Games in decades (2007 Thailand), the worst Olympics in 16 years (2008 Beijing).  His only success is the 2005 SEA Games, where he was fortunate enough that Mike Arroyo was able to cajole private corporations into a one -time effort to financially-support our teams, while our teams were adrenalin-powered by home court advantage.  In those years, he has also managed to bring infighting to basketball, equestrian, archery, swimming and bowling, which I personally witnessed.  

     At this most crucial time in Philippine sports, we stand at the proverbial crossroads.  During Obama's victory speech, I was moved to witness that his slogan, "Yes we can!" finally came to fruition and I constantly ask myself why we can't say the same with regard to our sports.

     The answer? A picture of Peping Cojuanco saying, "No you can't."   

A New Motown Hit?

     Hidden behind the brouhaha over the US elections, a big deal was completed in the NBA.  The Detroit Pistons shipped "Mr. Big Shot" Chauncey Billups and Antonio Mcdyess to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Allen Iverson.  Who benefits from this? Let's find out.

Winners

Detroit Pistons

     After crashing out of the Eastern Conference Finals yet again, General Manager Joe Dumars warned that sweeping changes could be made to the team, who seemed to have grown into contented cows.  Over the summer though no deal was made, so man thought he had given up on this plan.  With this deal, though, Dumars has again demonstrated his savvy as an executive.  First of all, AI brings excitement into a team desperately in need of a spark.  Secondly, this human scoring dynamo called Iverson will no doubt bring a "scorer" much needed in a Pistons offense that grows stagnant on a nightly basis.  With Detroit, AI gets another shot at reaching the NBA Finals, so he will be a good citizen and fit in nicely with the Pistons.  Thirdly, moving Billups and Mcdyess will give young guard Rodney Stuckey and young bigs Jason Maxielle and Amir Johnson more minutes to show their wares.  In this way, the transitional period of a supposedly aging team will go on while they are still playoff worthy.  Lastly, even if AI turns out to be a dud, his contract expires at the end of the year, along with Rasheed Wallace's.  That means of 40 million of free cap space.  (Just wait for the call from Joe D, Lebron)

Rodney Stuckey and Carmelo Anthony

     Both these young guns will benefit with this trade, even if they express any sadness about their former teamates' departure.  Stuckey will be the unchallenged starter so added minutes and confidence should help his game.  He can use this year to solidify his position on this team.  'Melo, even if he will den it, must be salivating over the prospect of more shots.  With Iverson around they had to share the scoring load, but Billups is more of a point guard than Iverson, meaning he will get 'Melo more touches.  

     I would include JR Smith in this list, but I would have to observe his mental state before declaring anything.  He is, after all, JR Smith.

Antonio Mcdyess

     Dyess will probably b waived and bought out by the Nuggets, and the Pistons have already signified their intentions to resign him.  So basically, he gets a little more money and a 30 day vacation as he waits to clear waivers.  30 days is a boon for those wear knees as he prepares for the playoffs.

Losers

Denver Nuggets

     For a team that supposedly wants to shed hefty and long contracts, they sure do a lousy job.  The Nuggets basically gave away Marcus Camby to lighten their contract payments, but then they also give away Iverson's large but expiring contract.  Furthermore, they take on Billups smaller but longer contract.  This means they're tied to another significant contract for three years, instead of getting rid of an enormous one by the end of the year, which could help them make a play for a younger free agent.  Billups will certainly help the Nuggets an probably push the Nuggets into the playoffs again, but they are a long way from the Championship.  My guess is they make the playoffs for another two years, while they pay around seven million dollars in luxury tax, three huge contracts for an aging point guard in Billups and two forwards with three gimpy knees in Kenyon Martin and Nene.   

     Will AI be another motown hit? I think he would be, but if he isn't, his expiring contract will surely be.

NBA Starting Five (Story Lines)

     The new National Basketball Association (NBA) season begins on October 28 and it promises to be another exciting one filled with numerous back stories and plots.  Here is my Starting Five story lines for the upcoming season.

1.  Can the Celts do it again?

     The $64 million dollar question for all champions is whether they can do it again.  They have kept most of the team together (although James Posey has signed on with the Hornets) and more importantly, the Celts, especially Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce, have said all the right things about not getting complacent and working hard.  With those two at the helm, it is safe to say that the Celtics will play and compete hard.  What remains in the balance though, is will the big three get some help from bench players Leon Powe, Glen Davis and Gabe Pruitt?  

2.  Are the Lakers really better this year?

     Despite having the Most Valuable Player (MVP) Kobe Bryant, many claimed the Lakers were short-handed facing the Celtics in last year's NBA finals.  With Andrew Bynum and Trevor Ariza finally healthy, and with Pau Gasol in for a whole year, this year will be the true test of the Lakers' championship mettle.  Are the Lakers destined to be world champs?

3.  Cavaliers and Hornets.  Are they for real?

     Last season, these two young teams have shown up the "veteran" teams by performing well despite their relative young age.  During the offseason, they both not only kept the core of their line ups, they each also added a player that they feel could get them over the hump.  The Cavs added PG Mo Williams to add a ball handler and scorer to take the load of Lebron James, while the Hornets brought in veteran SG James Posey, a great shooter, perimeter defender and more importantly, a good locker room presence to guide the younger players.  Will these additions and another year of playing together take these teams to the promised land? 

4.  Will the Rockets finally have lift off?

     Despite the talented duo of Tracy Mcgrady and Yao Ming and their record-setting 22 straight wins, the Rockets have failed to move past the first round of the playoffs in five seasons.  A lot of that could be attributed to the two stars constantly getting injured, but it could also be pointed at their relatively thin bench.  This year, the Rockets added another big time player in SF Ron Artest and a veteran shooter in SG Brent Barry.  Will they be enough to improve the team?  Will the Rockets stay healthy and deep enough to go past the first round of the playoffs?

5.  How old is old?

     The aging line ups of the Detroit Pistons and the San Antonio Spurs were tweaked very little in the off season, meaning the teams are looking for another title run.  This season will reveal if age has finally caught up with them.  Grizzled veterans Rasheed Wallace of the Pistons and TIm Duncan of the Spurs will continue battling down low, but can they still carry their teams?  Will age and various injuries finally catch up to them?

Playing Fantasy? Some Sleepers for You

Fantasy sports is getting a lot more popular these days, even in the Philippines. Being a basketball-obsessed nation, the most popular one is of course the NBA fantasy league. I'm currently involved with two leagues, and I'm sure hundreds of you there are too. That's why I thought I could help out those who are playing by revealing my picks for fantasy sleeper picks.

Everyone knows about the top picks (Lebron, Chris Paul, Kobe etc.) so my picks will be the unknowns, great for those in deep leagues or looking for great 8th player or lower type of picks.

NBA Fantasy (Top 5)

David Lee (New York Knicks)

Yeah the Knicks still suck even with Mike d'Antoni, but his running game will mean some players, particularly athletic and hardworking ones, will benefit from the system. Lee is one such player. Already, there is talk that he will already be in the starting line up, and that could be a boon to his numbers. Last year, he tallied 10.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, and just one turnover. Look for him to increase points and rebounds this year.

Louis Williams (Philadelphia 76ers)

We saw glimpses of this combo guard last year and he was quite a contributor. With Philly fguring to run and Andre Miller showing that he can play with Willaims in the backcourt, look for Williams to be a great contributor off your bench. His points (11.5), assists (3.2) and steals (1.0) will increase this year. He is getting popular, though, so he might get picked early.

Jason Maxiell (Detroit Pistons)

He didn't get most of the minutes on the floor, but when he was on the floor, he made the most of his minutes. With the starters aging, look for Detroit's second team (Afflalo, Stuckey and Maxiell) to get more minutes, especially early in the season. More importantly, I love his FG percentage numbers (53.8) and this number has increased every year.

Roy Hibbert (Indiana Pacers)

Usually, I don't like to pick rookies, but centers are hard to come by these days, and if you still lack a center, Hibbert might give you good minutes and numbers. The Pacers traded away Jermaine O'Neal and are thin at center (oft injured Troy Murphy and Jeff Foster) so Hibbert might get the chance to strutt his stuff. In a pre-season game against the Grizzlies, Hibber put out 12 points and 12 rebounds and stuffed the Grizz's shots 4 times. Certainly a center who scores, rebounds and blocks will be an excellent addition to your team.

Ronnie Brewer (Utah Jazz)

This relative unknown has been starting for Coach Jerry Sloan for the past year and he is a value pick. He averages 12 points and more importantly, 1.7 steals. Steals are hard to comeby but it is still a category just the same. Look for Brewer to augment your steals cat while he won't hurt your TOs (0.7).

These picks may not bring staggering numbers for your fantasy campaign, but sooner or later, you will feel a pinch here and there to help you win one category or two. Then, you will truly know why the bench is as instrumental as the starters.

Two Cents for Coach Yeng

     Coach Yeng Guiao of the Red Bull Barakos has now been named as the Head Coach of the Men's National Basketball Team of the Philippines.  In line with Coach Yeng's Maverick style, he has already ditched the try outs and he said he would just name the team/pool and then start practicing.  Being a meddler, I decided to give my two cents worth of advice, whether he wants it or not.

     Keeping in mind that this team is only being formed for the FIBA Asia Tournament in 2009, I see no need to form a team with players filled with "potential."  The team should be filled with players who will be good in 2009.  I picked my team with the traditional 2 players per position plus two extra players and here they are by position, and I picked as if only PBA players could be picked.

Center - In amateur games, the center is mostly relied on to rebound and defend, not really pound the ball inside.  The SBP plans to get a naturalized center to play for us, so if that were the case, these choices would be scrapped.

Starter: Pauliasi Taulava (Coca Cola Tigers) - Asi is still the best "big" we have, even at age 34. He seems to be in shape for this season, so in another season he will still probably be the best.  At 6'9" and over 270 lbs, he will provide the bulk and size to defend the paint and rebound.  More importantly, he checks his ego at the door.  He never pouts if he doesn't get his shots.

Reliever: Michael Pennisi (San Miguel Beermen) - Mic is another big bodied and tough 6'9" center and he does possess an outside shot that can help draw out the defense.  More importantly, he is our resident "bad guy," an enforcer that isn't afraid to get tough with the opponents.  We need toughness to intimidate opponents and Mic is what the doctor ordered.

Power Forward - Power forwards in recent amateur tournaments have morphed into tall, athletic players that can play both outside and inside.  Big bruisers like Karl Malone type players are no longer in style.

Starter: Kelly Williams (Sta. Lucia Prime Properties) - The PBA Most Valuable Player is just that, valuable.  6'6" and freakishly athletic, he will contribute on both defensive and offensive rebounding and he can defend both in the post and outside.  It doesn't hurt that he can shoot too.

Reliever: Jean Marc Pingris (San Miguel Beermen) - While Pingris' outside shooting can be described as spotty at best, he has a tremendous nose for the ball that helps him get to every rebound and loose ball available.  While he is a mere 6'4", his athleticism and unusually long arms more than make up for that.

Small Forward - Small forwards will need to be able to able the post in the zone defense, and they may also be asked to defend outside.  Outside shooting will be key as well as they may be the ones left open in the outside most of the time.

Starter: James Yap (Purefoods TJ Giants) - Another former MVP, Yap was not given a chance in the previous national team, but he is deadly from the outside and lately, he has developed some deceptively quick slashing moves.  Meanwhile, he should be athletic and built enough to play down low on defense.   

Reliever: Arwind Santos (Air 21 Express) - The jack of all trades is an excellent small forward as well.  While being reed-thin, he has the uncanny ability to get to a lot of loose balls and defend anyone from point guard to small forward.  His athleticism and long arms are probably the reasons why.  On offense, he has developed a great outside shot and he is also a great offensive rebounder.

Shooting Guards - Well, they have to be able to shoot, but they need to be able to slash through the defense or run downcourt for a fast break play.  Most importantly, they need to be unaffected by playing against usually bigger and longer defenders.

Cyrus Baguio - "Skyrus" has really developed into a prime time player last year and while man still doubt his abilities, they really shouldn't.  His slashing and high-flying offense has now been augmented by his suddenly-reliable three point shot.  Besides, he is already familiar with Coach Yeng's style so that is a plus.  Furthermore, he seems a good locker room presence and he can bring a team together, as evidenced by the South All Stars horrific but funny dance number during the PBA's All Star Game.

Reliever: Willie Miller (Alaska Aces) - The thriller is way too unpredictable for some coaches' tastes, but he fits the bill actually.  He does have a solid outside shot and he can certainly slash through the defense.  As long as he is used in spurts, he will prove to be an effective player in his position.

Point Guard - There is no position as important as PGs will b the coach on the court, directing the plays.  Adding PGs with outside shots and slashing abilities will make the offense even more potent so it would be a good idea to get players that fit the bill.

Starter: Jimmy Alapag - One of the previous national team's brightest stars, Jimmy can control the offense and play both slow down and sped up ball.  His outside shot is pretty great and he can take the ball to the hole despite his diminutive size.  He just needs to stop taking pull up threes, that's all.

Reliever: Anthony Helterbrand - The Fiesta Cup's best player, Jay Jay is also excellent at the PG position.  Previous knocks of him being a shooting guard and not a point are now unfounded as he proved last conference.  He can pass, he can shoot and he definitely can slash to the basket.  His in between game (medium range jumpers and pull ups), will be very effective in the amateur game.

Two extra slots - With all five positions filled, the two extra slots should be given to players that can play multiple positions, plug in the holes, so to speak.  

Slot 1 - Gabriel Norwood (Rain or Shine Paintmasters) - Gabe, with his height and athletic ability, would be able to play four positions, and he seems willing and able to do it.  His ability to play the point makes him a valuable third guard and he would be most effective at shooting guard.  His outside shooting is not as reliable as I would want, but a year in the PBA should help things along.

Slot 2 - Ranidel de Ocampo (Air 21 Express) - Ranidel is another player that can play multiple positions, from SF to Center.  He has a dizzying array of post moves and his outside shot is very reliable as well.  Besides, he and his side burns provide the team with another tough guy to enforce some intimidation.

     With this line up, Coach Yeng will have the quick, athletic team that plays tough defense and shoots from the outside.  With all the long armed and high leaping players, he can put on a stifling pressure defense (ala La Salle) and go for easy hoops by forcing turnovers.  The team should also be able to play great half court offense with its wide array of shooters.  Meawhile, half court defense won't be a problem as well, what with all the tough guys in there.

     So what about it Coach Yeng? You can thank me next time.