With my last two top 10s, I decided to do a two-part special, featuring the greatest FIlipino athletes of all time. I've always found it foolish to compare athletes from the present generation to the ones from previous generations, as time brings about tons of changes, whether they be the level (and number) of competition to the technology behind the game and equipment. That's why I've made two lists.
Parameters: All athletes with Filipino blood, who performed their feats of sporting greatness between the years of 1920 to 1970 will be included.
10. Felicisimo Ampon
Many people state that height is clearly an advantage in tennis, but no one told FIlipino tennis great Felicisimo Ampon. Despite being just 5 feet tall, Ampon was so good, he was even considered the best tennis player in the world, "inch for inch." In 1937, Ampon brought international recognition to the Philippines by taking Davis Cup Singles Title. He continued to lead the Philippine charge in Davis cup, but his most significant achievement would be winning the Pan AMerican Championship in Mexico. Ampon also won titles in the Far east Games and a doubles gold in the 1954 Asian Games. His most impressive feat, however, would have to be his stints at Grand Slam tournaments. He is the first and only FIlipino in history to reach the quarterfinals of both the French Open and Wimbeldon (he was also the shortest man to ever play in a Grand Slam), both times giving then World's number 1 player Frank Sedgman the scares of his life. Ampon also won the WImbeldon Plate Championship in 1953, which is a oturnament for the players eliminated in the first and second round. Perhaps the best description of Ampon's contribution ot tennis was summed up by British Ambassador Peter Beckingham who said Ampon was, " a great internationalist who has imparted a new meaning to the delicate game and is a credit to the sport."
Before any chants of me being sexist begin, allow me to defend myself. I would've made a separate list for male athletes just to even the field, but then again, who would want me to describe muscular, athletic men in my blog, ranking them by their looks? See? I knew we would all be in agreement.
Parameters: For the list, I only included athletes still active (so no Anna Kournikova or Trish Stratus), and while looks are important to me (and this list), I've also considered success as an important factor, since there is nothing sexier than a successful woman. (so no Daniela Hantuchova, sorry syd or Kelly Kelly either). Lastly, I allowed for no more than three per sport, lest I have a list of only tennis players and WWE Divas.
10. Jessica Mendoza (UAAP Courtside Reporter)
In a previous "Top 10," I listed down the Top 10 Sportscasters, showing my deep respect for great sportscasters. Studio 23's reporters for the UAAP? Well, I'll be diplomatic and say they have a long way to go to even approximate any of my Top 10's greatness. Mendoza (the UAAP courtside reporter), however, is a breath of fresh, (beautiful) air. I've always admired public speakers who never say things like, "ummm," or "ah," and she doesn't, which is quite an achievement if you check out her contemporaries. The cherry on top of the sundae? She is a self-described, "nerd." What could be better? (Thanks to Tibibord for the pic and the info)
Some people say it's never good to ask "What if?" questions because there will never be any real answers. Sometimes, though, it is a little fun. That's why I'm presenting my top 10 sports "What-Could-Have-Beens," sports figures whose relatively incomplete careers leaves questions behind.
10. Earl Manigault
People said that upon NBA great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's retirement, he was asked who was the greatest player he had played against. His answer was said to have astounded everyone as he named Earl "Goat" Manigault, a man who never set foot in the NBA, as the guy. Turns out, Manigault was indeed a heck of a street ball player. Details of his exploits include such tales as once doing 36 consecutive reverse dunks to win a 60 dollar bet, dunking from the free throw line with two hands over two people during a game, and picking off dollar bills and quarters from the top of the backboard. It was clear that the freakishly-athletic 6'2" baller was an exceptional prospect for the NBA. Unfortunately, Manigault succumbed to a drug habit for years, effectively destroying any chance for a basketball career. It does beg the question, though, if the "Goat," could have dominated the NBA the way he dominated the playground.
As I've mentioned before, I love sports monickers, especially the really good ones. Sometimes, though, people can get too excited and start giving athletes monickers without really thinking. The results, you will see in the list below.
Parameters: While I tried to limit the number of monickers per sport, it is hard since the PBA has an extraordinary amount of horrible monickers and they deserve to be mentioned.
10. Lex Luger and British Bulldog (WWE)
Lex Luger finally found his niche in the WWE when he bagan a patriotic All American persona who battled Yokozuna. Following that, he was paired as a tag team with another nationalistic persona, the British BUlldog. It was perfectly fine to introduce them individually, but the powers that be just had to name them and the result was one of the worst tag team names of all time, The Allied Powers. Yes, that's cheese you're detecting.
Sometimes, I don't mind watching sports at home instead of live, and these guys have a lot to do with it. I have tremendous respect for great sportscasters and I have not given up on my dream of being one. That's why it was such a great experience for me when I did coverage for the Philippine Bowling Open a few years back with Bill Velasco. I hope to do more in the future, maybe even with my former prof. Sev Sarmienta.
Parameters: To be fair, I gave 5 slots for foreign sportscasters and 5 slots for local sportscasters. Also, while I have been watching, studying and enjoying sports for over two decades, I can only include those I actually heard for at least 10 times. This means I can only give special mention to legends like Dick Ildefonso and Pinggoy Pengson.
10. Marv Albert
The NBA playoffs, people say, are like a different season, and so are the commentators. Even the TV stations bring their "A" game and among the best is Marv Albert. He does have a great television voice and he always develops great camaraderie with his panelists. The thing I love the most though, is his ability to make the game more exciting through his accentuation. He doesn't say anything too unique but the way he say lines like, "for three!" or "up high and down hard!" just sound awesome. I also love his penchant of starting disagreements with his panelists like Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson.
I love monickers. In fact, I wrote about my favorites before in a previous article. I think they give sports a lot more color and they give athletes a chance at better name recognition, which is always helpful in making a certain sport more popular.
Parameters: As usual, only athletes playing in the sports that From the Fifty Peso Seats covers will be counted. Also, given my preference for MMA monickers, I decided to control myself by limiting it to three per sport at the most. Also, as tribute to my brod Tibibord, I would like to give special mention to "El Aparador" Joel Dualan. Great monicker, but it did little to extend his PBA career. I heard he's coaching though.
10. Marcus Davis (UFC)
One of the better fighters in the UFC's middleweight division, I have to admit that I barely knew of Davis a few years ago. That all changed when I witnessed one of his fights. It wasn't his fighting style that really got me. It was his monicker. "The Irish Hand Grenade," is just freakin' awesome, isn't it? Of course, he would've ranked higher had his monicker not have been too controversial to use in Ireland. he ended up being called, "The Celtic Warrior," there, since Ireland continues to experience unrest.
Being a coach of over 10 years myself, I know all about how truly difficult a coach's job is. A coach has to wear many hats, teacher, confidante, leader and sometimes even sponsor or benefactor. Plus, everyone knows that blame for a loss is always to the coach while glory for a victory is always to the players. Coaching truly is a thankless job and these 11 guys are the ones I truly admire.
Parameters: I've picked only coaches from sports that From the Fifty Peso Seats covers so coaching greats like Bobby Knight or Coach K are not eligible. I've also put in half foreign coaches (coaches whose achievements were done internationally) and half local coaches. (FIlipino coaches or coaches where Philippines was the venue of their achievements)
10 (tie). Rajko Toroman - Basketball
This Serbian tasked to coach the Philippine National Team has already done wonders for our Smart GIlas team, but it would be premature to name him to this list for only that. What people have to remember is what he did before we stole him. Toroman was first tasked to coach the Iranian basketball team. Within a few years, he assembled an Iranian team that defeated perennial Asian powerhouse China to emerge as Asian basketball Champions and a stint in the 2008 Olympic Games. What I admire the most, though, is his patience in teaching. Watch any game of Smart GIlas and you will see that he takes every opportunity to use game situations to teach his players, making every game a meaningful learning experience. If he can bring the Philippines to the Olympics as well, his position would definitely jump up.
In this second of my top 10 "top 10s," I name the most awesome knockouts I've seen and know of.
Parameters: Since From the Fifty Peso Seats covers both Boxing and UFC, it would be fair to give 5 slots each to both sports. They will all be ranked under one list though. While knockouts come in many forms, I am most awed by quick, sudden and unexpected knockouts. Here we go:
10. UFC - Matt Hamill vs Mark Munoz
In what was a memorable UFC debut, Munoz, the Filipino Wrecking Machine, underestimated fellow wrestler Hamill's stand up game and well he, as my friend put it, "got wrecked." Hamill absolutely destroyed Munoz with a well placed head kick and the fight was over. I'm still a fan of Munoz though and his recent victories over Nick Catone and Kendall Grove have me smiling.
So it begins. This is my 91st post, which means I'm 10 posts away from the 100th and to celebrate reaching that number, I will be revealing my top 10 "Top 10s," my personal best of sports. To start with, I'll be listing down the top 10 best sports movies in history.
Parameters: My only restrictions would be to exclude movies where sports were not the central theme of the movie. This is why Oscar winners like, "The Blind Side" and "Jerry McGuire" were not considered candidates, no matter how much I love them. Other than that, any sports movies were a part of the list of candidates.
10. Kingpin (Bill Murray, Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid)
What kind of bowling coach would I be if I didn't include this movie? Possibly the only bowling-centric movie ever made, Kingpin is an irreverent comedy from the Farrelly Brothers (of There's Something About Mary fame) about a former college bowling standout (Harrelson),who lost his hand in a hustle gone wrong, trying to help naive Amish bowler Ishmael (Quaid) win a pro bowling tournament to earn money to save his Amish town. While in no danger of being regarded an art film, the movie is absolutely hilarious with over the top performances from three great actors (extra kudos to villain Bill Murray).
Favorite Part: Asked why he bowled so low, Ishmael explains, "It's not my fault. It's you and your ten frames!" He then explains he bowls 15 frames as his granddad taught him, "to always do more."
With the playoffs kicking off last Sunday, it's also time to take a look at which players should receive individual recognition for their efforts.
Most Valuable Player (MVP)
I only look for three things in my MVPs. First, is the player putting up tremendous numbers? Second, will the player's team absolutely lose its way without him? Last, is the player a great ambassador for the NBA and basketball in general. With that, I only see four candidates, Lebron James (Cleveland Cavaliers), Kobe Bryant (L.A. Lakers), Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic), and Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder). All these four players satisfy the first question, but only two will satisfy each of the next two questions. While James will in no way satisfy the third question, it is the least important of my questions, so as much as it pains me, Lebron James must be MVP a second straight year. His numbers are simply other-worldly, with averages of 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.6 assists, 1.6 steals and 1 block per game. Furthermore, it is beyond obvious that the Cavaliers would be absolute crap without him.
While it's a little late in the game, here are the Fifty Peso Previews for the first round of the playoffs.
Western Conference
L.A. Lakers (1) vs Oklahoma City Thunder (8)
The Lakers are, as usual, creating their own drama with a less than stellar end to the regular season. Anyone entertaining a 4th "8th seed defeats 1st seed" upset needs to remember that all Phil Jackson-coached teams encounter tons of problems just before the playoffs and then comes in to do what they need to do to win in the playoffs. The exuberant Thunder (who I predicted would make the playoffs in my pre-season Fifty Peso Previews, will have their first audition for greatness and leading the charge would be NBA history's youngest scoring champ Kevin Durant. Despite Durantula's impending playoff coming out party, the Lakers' experience and the Thunder's inexperience will result in a cocktail known as a Laker series win.
Okay, so I turned 31 this week. Wondering what kind of year my 31st will be, I took a look at some NBA players who have worn the number 31 for most or all of their careers for some answers.
Pacemaker
Right out of UCLA, reed-thin Reggie Miller donned the number 31 for the Indiana Pacers. Known as Cheryl Miller's kid brother, Reggie bucked the odds and silenced the doubters as he proved he could not only survive the NBA but also dominate despite his slight build. Miller played 18 fruitful seasons (all for the Pacers), marking his career with an amazing 8 point explosion in less than 15 game seconds against the Knicks, over 1000 three point shots converted and timeless playoff battles against John Starks and Michael Jordan. Unfortunately, the sharpshooter was never rewarded with a championship, coming close in the 2000 NBA finals. Question is, will my year feature amazing accomplishments like Miller's infamous playoff scoring sprees and duels or will the year be one big heartbreak like Reggie's inability to win a championship?
With the NBA regular season on it's final week, it's the best time to hand out my All NBA Fantasy League Awards. Now, while some of the awardees would win the real NBA awards, the following are winners in the fantasy league world. In short, these are this season's best players, statistics-wise.
Regular Season MVP
Lebron James - I've been giving James a lot of grief for his childish behavior and boorish arrogance, but statistics wise, this guy is a fantasy stud. This season, James averaged 29.9 points (on .502 FG percentage and 1.7 3 pointers made), 7.3 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 1.7 steals and 1 block per game. He was a positive factor in at least 7 statistical categories, and in most leagues, only 9 are measured. With a crappy line up I had in a league where I missed the live draft, I will finish no lower than 4th, thanks in no small part to James. He may be the "King" of immaturity, but in NBA Fantasy Land, he truly is the "King."
In the sports entertainment world of professional wrestling, hyperboles are thrown around like rice in a wedding procession. There are, however, a few great men and women, who have earned each and every single one of those hyperboles. One of those great ones, bade a final goodbye to his adoring fans of over 25 years. Shawn Michaels, the "Heartbreak Kid," finally bade good bye to the WWE Universe last Monday, ending the career of easily one of wrestling's most popular and enduring superstars. As a tribute to one of wrestlings icons, I look back on HBK's most memorable career moments. While HBK has won a tremendous amount of titles, including every single one the WWE has ever had, I find these moments were his greatest.
Kwentong Barbero
In 1988, a then teenaged Shawn Michaels burst into the WWE scene as one half of the Rockers. Teamed with Marty Jannetty, Michaels wuickly busted through the tag team ranks, winning against greats like the Hart Foundation and the Brain Busters. His road to greatness, however, started with the implosion of his tag team. After a series of rumors surrounding the Rockers' partnership, Michaels cleared the air in Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake's barber shop, raising Jannetty's hand before turning around and super-kicking him in the face. The separation from Jannetty allowed Michael's to pursue the tremendous singles career everyone will remember for quite some time.
A lot of people have been discouraging Manny Pacquiao from running for political office, claiming sports and politics shouldn't mix. Then, add in the history of athletes in our political world (i.e. Senator Robert Jaworski, Secretary Eric Buhain) and you've got yourselves a compelling reason to agree with those people. Let's think about it though. What if the right athletes made the trek to the political world? Our country may find its best government yet, so to our upcoming new (hopefully!!!) president, take a gander at these potential cabinet appointees from the sporting world.
Paeng Nepomuceno (Department of Health) - The four-time World Cup Champion and Greatest Amateur Bowler on the Planet is over fifty years old, yet he looks not a day over 40. Still competitive against the world's best, Paeng has repeatedly stated his secret is keeping in shape. He bikes, runs and does calisthenics, all while eating right. My brother, who was roommates with Paeng during the Asian Games can attest to Paeng's supreme work ethic, as he wakes early every morning for sit ups/crunches as well. Wouldn't it be great if we were all a la Paeng, healthy and looking good even at 50 years old?
I just love Ball Don't Lie , the Yahoo! basketball blog. They recently posted one of the funniest things I've read in months, jokingly describing that the Phoenix Suns have an, "Other Brother Experiment." I didn't get it at first, but then I realized that the among the players listed in the Suns roster are Robin Lopez, Taylor Griffin and Jarron Collins, all players with more accomplished or famous brothers in the same sport. Now, while I found the blog comment funny, my heart does go out to the world's numerous "Other Brothers," since I am an "Other Brother," myself. That's why I thought it would be nice to mention other "Other Brothers" in sports. Those athletes who never could make it unlike their more illustrious brothers.
Harvey Grant - Horace Grant is known for his tremendous work ethic, defense and rebounding and these talents made him a vital cog in the Chicago Bull's first "Three peat" run with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Then, he went ahead and won another championship as a veteran off the bench for Shaq and Kobe's L.A. Lakers. Unfortunately, that level of enviable success did not run in the family as Horace's twin brother Harvey. While Harvey was a an NBA player himself, his level of success certainly pales in comparison. Harvey had a 5-year NBA career with the Portland Trail Blazers, Washington Bullets and the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 9.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists, numbers that aren't that bad, until you realize that in Horace's 17 year career, he was not only an NBA All Defensive Second Team four times, but also an NBA All Star, playing in the annual event in 1994. Hey, at least when I used Harvey Grant in NBA Jam, he could make three pointers. That's always a plus, right?
I don't smoke, I have never and will never get near illegal drugs (take that Floyd Mayweather!) and I hardly drink anymore. That's why it's hard to imagine that I would ever get moments of insanity or delusion. These sports developments, however, had me second guessing myself a bit.
We all know about the top 4 teams of the NBA's Eastern Conference, and it's already quite a surprise that Atlanta is third, not Boston. The real clincher? Take a gander at the fifth and sixth seed. Perennial whipping boys Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Bobcats are deep into the playoff race and they seem to settling in. Wow.
Say goodbye to Purefoods. After winning the PBA Philippine Cup Championship, the Tender Juicy Giants are changing names. While it's tough to not see the name Purefoods in the roster of PBA teams, what really takes the cake is the name they're changing into. From now on (hopefully only this conference), they will be known as the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados. That's right. That's the name. That's a big mouthful. Of livestock feed. Goodness.
In a doubles exhibition match with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, "legends" Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras, armed with aging bodies and wireless mics, proceeded to have a highly uncomfortable, supposedly funny and good-natured ribbing that turned into a horrible PR nightmare. What started as a funny Sampras imitation of Agassi turned into Agassi calling Sampras a cheapskate and Pete serving a ball straight into Agassi. What's worse than two great tennis players in an immature bickering match? Two RETIRED former great players in an immature bickering match in a charity event. Yeesh.
Manny Pacquiao is surely the biggest sports icon in our country today. Maybe ever. So what does it say that the best and most comprehensive story on the Philippines' National Fist was written by an American (Andrew Corsello) for the American GQ magazine? Don't believe me? Read the article here.
It's easy to understand but not altogether forgivable that most people forgot that Manny Pacquiao was not the only Filipino that fought in a boxing ring last weekend. Filipino pugilists Richie Mepranum and Eden Sonsona also took to the ring and like their idol Manny, ended up victorious. (Michael Farenas also fought but the fight ended in a no decision because of a clash of heads) Mepranum outworked and outpointed previously undefeated flyweight Hernan Marquez in their 10-round battle in the Gaylord Hotel on the eve of the Pacquiao fight. Meanwhile, Sonsona reminded the world he was the Sonsona to remember (and not Marvin) as he knocked out former world champ bantamweight Mauricio Pastrana in the 8th round. So devastating was his knock out that the referee didn't bother to count out the Colombian when he fell to the canvass. Mabuhay!
Fill 'Er Up
If people are still wondering just how many Pinoys are already in the U.S., they need to look no further than Sunday's Pacquiao-Clottey fight. Cowboy Stadium, configured for 45,000 seats, welcomed 50,994 people, the third largest boxing audience in an indoor arena in U.S. history. Judging from the amount of flags seen along the stands and the deafening roar for Pacman, it can easily be surmised that Pinoys made up a good number of that crowd. Pinoys, not only from Texas but as far as New Jersey and Chicago, according to an APReport. Talk about people power.
Action Star
Of course, the best example of Pinoy dominance last weekend is the planet's best boxer, Manny Pacquiao. Pacman unleashed a flurry onto challenger Joshua Clottey, pounding the Ghanian into a dominant, unanimous victory. While many concentrate on Clottey's reluctance to punch (actually I did too on my Facebook status), what many should consider is that Clottey's intention to not get knocked out is not the only reason he didn't punch. For anyone who doesn't, here are two questions. Have you seen what happens to people (like Miguel Cotto, David Diaz and Ricky Hatton) who trade punches with Pacquiao? What do you do when a hurricane of punches named Manny comes? The answers are, "They get knocked out," and, "Cover up like hell." So, as much as last weekend's massacre was a function of Clottey's lack of resolve, it's also about Pacquiao's sheer brilliance, ferocity, speed and power.
photos courtesy of the AP and special thanks to Tiborce and his tremendous blog
It could be Pacquiao's sheer dominance and brilliance in his past 5 fights or it could be Clottey's relative anonimity. It could even be disappointment over the postponed fight against Mayweather. Whatever it is, there just doesn't seem to be enough buzz for this Sunday's fight between Manny Pacquiao, the Philippines' greatest boxer and Ghana's former Welterweight Champion, Joshua Clottey. While many people scoff at Clottey's chances, I think there is more than one reason to find this fight more than exciting.
Machete?
Despite being a heavy underdog, people don't seem to remember that Clottey has never been hurt in a fight. He has lost, twice by (controversial) decision and once by disqualification, but no opponent in his career has ever hurt him enough to get him in trouble. Even when Miguel Cotto knocked him down, it was one of those flash knockdowns, and Clottey promptly stood up and almost ended up beating Cotto. Clottey is always chiseled and in shape. He has excellent defense (even Kevin Iole calls him a modern Winky Wright), making him tremendously difficult to hit and when he does get hit, he has shown he can take it. That's why this fight, as much as it is a test for Clottey, it is a actually a true test for Pacquiao. If people want to see just how strong Pacquiao is and exactly how technically sound his offense is now, this is the fight that will show them.
Three Handed Monster
Joshua Clottey, as powerful as he is, is even more dangerous because he is, as my brother calls it, a "three handed monster." Aside from his heavy right hand a capable left, Clottey has a penchant for using his head, the illegal way. Call it whatever you want, dirty or just lunging, the fact of the matter is, Clottey's opponents have a high percentage of getting hit with a head butt. That's why a lot of Clottey's opponents have ended up bleeding. This is a significant problem because as tough as Pacquiao is, he hates bleeding. He hates blood tests and he loses speed and ferocity when he starts bleeding in fights. It can be remembered that he had a lot of trouble in the fights against Agapito Sanchez and Erik Morales, where he was bleeding from head butts. (He lost to Morales, while Sanchez was disqualified) That's why this fight is a lot more dangerous than people anticipate. It's hard to fight an opponent who uses his head (illegally).
Pressure Points
The problem with being the great one like Pacquiao is, everyone now expects him to dominate everyone not named Mayweather. Now, Manny is the ultimate favorite, and all the pressure to dominate and win is all on him. That, coupled with the pressure to win for the entire Philippine nation is more than enough for mere mortals to carry. That's why this fight is tougher for Pacquiao than usual. This time, he has to win and dominate. Otherwise, his aura of invincibility loses a lot of luster.
Of course, like any other FIlipino, I am still 100% behind Pacquiao. I'm still predicting an impressive win, 9th round or later. It's just that, I think I'm going to be a lot more excited than others about this fight. You would be too if you agree.
Obviously, the San Miguel Corp franchises are looking to repeat their dominance in the PBA's import-flavored conference. Much of their success will depend on their imports, though. For this conference, the San Miguel Beermen will bring back last year's best import, Gabe Freeman. Fresh off a stint with the Philippine Patriots in the Asean Basketball League, Freeman is in great shape and look for the Beermen to be back in the title hunt yet again. The Ginebra Gin Kings hope former NBA player Awvee Storey can help augment their sometimes sputtering offense. Storey, who averaged 3.5 points and 2 rebounds in 26 games for the Bucks, can help. The only concern is his head. The 33 year old has bounced around the world, not because of lack of skill but because of behavior. His checkered past includes trouble with Gilbert Arenas and the police and punching a teammate in the NBDL. The Kings may want to grab a replacement import, just in case. All Filipino Champs Purefoods have their eye on Reggie Larry, who despite barely playing in the Golden State Warriors' Summer League Team, does have tremendous hops, as seen in the video above. The question is, will he mesh with the league's most potent defensive team?
Where's the Beef?
The answer to that question may be Ginebra. Obviously lacking in size when they lost to the Alaska Aces in the semi finals of the All Filipino Cup, Ginebra is on the prowl to increase size. Rebounding and hustle will no longer be franchised by Willie Wilson alone, as the Kings have re-signed the "H-Bomb" Rudy Hatfield for the year. Although years older and our of competitive basketball for a while, look for Hatfield to grab Ginebra at least an extra two to three possessions a game. Then, the Kings look to find a true center who can block shots with a rumored deal sending former Ateneo Blue Eagles Rich Alvarez and Doug Kramer in exchange for Yancy de Ocampo. De Ocampo, who rotted on the Talk and Text bench averaging less than 15 minutes a game, is no game changer, but he's still a 6'11" non game changer.
Back in the Flash?
In other PBA related news, guess who's back in town after retiring to the U.S. to live a quiet life? Bal "The Flash" David, the former blur of a point guard of the Ginebra Kings, is back in town and involved in basketball again. Fortunately, he isn't trying to stage a comeback playing. He is now mentoring the Fern C basketball team in the Philippine Basketball League. Call me evil, but I saw a Fern C game last week, and as I gazed at David pacing the baseline and calling out instructions, one thought came to mind, "If he keeps asking his players to play tougher defense, one of his players will certainly ask him why he didn't bother playing any during his Ginebra days?" Like I said, evil. I wish you luck Bal! Peace!
This year's Wrestlemania in Arizona looks to be another blockbuster pay-per-view event for the WWE, and it should, since it will feature Undertaker vs Shawn Michaels 2 ('Taker's Wrestlemania undefeated streak of 17 wins vs Michaels' career.) This was a rematch over a year in the making and in the wrestling world, a year is an eternity. This got me wistfully thinking about other matches that should've gotten a rematch, but didn't.
Portland Trail Blazers vs Chicago Bulls (early 90s NBA)
The two teams met in the 1992 NBA Finals, with the Bulls, courtesy of astounding play and suddenly accurate three point shooting from Michael Jordan taking the championship. Both teams were very loaded, with the Blazers having Terry Porter, Clyde Drexler, Jerome Kersey, Buck Williams, Cliff Robinson and Kevin Duckworth. Meanwhile, the Bulls featured John Paxson, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Horace Grant, Bill Cartwright and B.J. Armstrong and the two teams were just evenly matched, that it seemed they would be headed for an intriguing rivalry for at least another 2 years. Alas,it was not meant to be as the revamped Phoenix Suns emerged as Western champs the following year and then Jordan retired the 1st time after that. Just the thought of the aerial battle between His Airness and the Glide is more than enough to be wistful about a rematch.
Mike Tyson vs James Douglas (Heavyweight Boxing)
In what was easily the upset of the decade in boxing, "Buster" Douglas knocked out the until then indestructible "Iron" Mike Tyson, taking his undisputed heavyweight championship. Douglas was at his best, moving, jabbing and frustrating Tyson until the fearsome champ tired out. Finally, he seized his opportunity in the 11th round, dropping Tyson for the first time in his career. Despite this almost perfect night from Douglas, it was still a close fight, as Tyson also dropped Douglas with a smashing right in the 10th round. That is why a rematch would've been tremendous for the boxing world. Unfortunately, the loss was only the first of a string of bad developments for Tyson, who then was found guilty of rape, sent to jail and found himself bankrupt. Douglas, meanwhile, enjoyed his championship too much, showing up bloated for his first title defense against Evander Holyfield and got knocked out of significance.
Ryo Chonan vs Anderson Silva
Silva, generally considered the best mixed martial artist in the world, pound for pound, has been undefeated in the UFC. Before he got his aura of invincibility in the UFC, however, Silva lost four times. One of those losses in the now defunct Pride Championship in Japan, was to Japanese Ryo Chonan who is currently in the UFC roster as well. In what has to be one of the most spectacular finishes in MMA, Chonan unleashed a flying scissor takedown which led straight to a heel hook to defeat Silva. It's almost a certainty that Silva would want to avenge that fight, but Pride has been bought out by the UFC and Chonan, while still in the UFC, has seen his career fade into oblivion. A rematch may not draw as much interest, so it's unlikely a rematch will be set up.
In the recently concluded Winter Olympics, Sven Kramer of the Netherlands won a gold in the 5,000 meter long track speedskating event, and he was well on his way to winning his second gold in the 10,000 meter version. Then, he didn't. An apparent miscommunication with his coach and an unforgivable mental error cost him, as he forgot to switch lanes at the race's halfway point. The error effectively disqualified him, leaving him with no medal for this event. Furthermore, it became apparent that he lost a world record time as well. Kramer, in the heat of the moment, first blamed is coach for telling him to take the wrong lane, but in the end, he did admit that he had no one to blame but himself. Ooops.
Foot in Mouth Disease
Even with an upcoming match against the fearsome Shane Carwin (who has a habit of destroying opponents in the first round), former UFC Champion Frank Mir was preoccupied with arch enemy and current UFC Champion Brock Lesnar. In a recent radio interview, Mir was all bravado and he had this to say.
"I want to fight Lesnar. I hate who he is as a person. I want to break his neck in the ring. I want him to be the first person that dies due to Octagon-related injuries. That's what's going through my mind."
Days later, Mir did apologize (probably, as Lesnar later said, "after his wife apologized."), but the damage has been done. In a sport that is striving to gain mainstream recognition and acceptance, it needs this wanton and careless act like a hole in the head. Several states in the U.S. and Canada have not legalized it, and the Australian press even went as far as calling it "bloodsport" when the UFC held a show there. What the UFC needs are instances where hardwork, dedication and sportsmanship are championed, not threatening lines fit for an action movie. Mir may be great in the ring, making very few errors, but behind the mic? That was a big ooops.
Bad Time for the Good Times
Canada's Women's Hockey Team made millions of Canadians delirious with their gold medal victory in the 2010 Winter Olympics on their home soil, beating the U.S.A., 2-0. They were pictures of true champions, politely accepting their gold medals and acknowledging the adoring crowd. Over half an hour later, they buckled down to business, the business of celebrating. They went back on the ice and partied. In typical hockey fashion, they were seen guzzling down champagne and beer, and puffing on some stogies for good measure, all with their gold medals hanging around their necks. While a lot of writers and fans (and even my friends) are quick to point out that this type of celebration is very typical in the hockey world, two things make it not. Firstly, the celebration was done in British Columbia, where the legal drinking age is nineteen. That becomes a sticky situation, as one of the team's players, Marie-Philip Poulin, who had a beer can in her hand, is still eighteen. Secondly, they were celebrating during the Olympic Games, where health and clean living is promoted heavily. Olympic sports are supposed to capture the imagination of the youth and engage them enough to want to join a sport and live healthy. Downing Duffs a la Homer Simpson is not exactly in the Olympic Charter. While it doesn't take away the hard-earned victory of the Canadian lasses, the celebration could be considered an ooops moment too.
Mr. Manuel V Pangilinan Chairman Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas c/o SMart Gilas Manager Frankie Lim
Dear Sir:
First of all, let me just say that I am a fan of your moves since you have taken over the SBP. From the developmental league to the multiple year plan with Smart Gilas, I believe Philippine basketball is in your capable hands.
Speaking of GIlas, I recognize the advantages of hiring a naturalized foreigner to play as our center. As well as GIlas is playing, it is easy to see we need a big man to provide us inside stability, rebounding and shot blocking. That's why I am just as perturbed as you that our first two naturalization candidates have not worked out for us. That's why I did my own scouting reports and I have three candidates for you.
I was hoping the SBP, through scout Jim Kelly and coach Rajko Toroman, would take a look at asking Greg Stiemsma to join us. This former Wisconsin player plays center for the Sioux Falls Sky Force and he could be the defensive center we desperately need. The 6'11", 260 pound Stiemsma currently averages 7.7 points (on .492 shooting), 6.8 rebounds, and more importantly, shoots a commendable .886 percentage from the free throw line and a whopping 3.5 blocks (NBDL league leader) in just 26 minutes of action. I've seen Stiemsma play and he really does have center instincts, always around the basket to protect it and he is athletic enough to rotate quickly. His free throw percentage also suggests an ability to hit mid range shots, which neither of our earlier candidates could do. Gilas would need a classic center, and Stiemsma could be the answer.
Another option would be to ask Rod Benson to join us. If you are not familiar with this 6'10", 225 pound Cal grad, allow me to fill you in. Benson is currently playing for the Reno Big Horns of the NBA's Development League (NBDL), after almost making it to the Indiana Pacers line up. As a Bighorn this year, Benson is carting averages of 13.5 points (on .507 shooting percentage), 8.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and more importantly, 1.7 blocks and 1.5 steals per game. These numbers suggest that he may be what we need... a defensive big man who can rebound, steal and block shots. Another plus for would be intelligence, as evidenced by his quirky and entertaining writing which is featured in his blog, www.toomuchrodbenson.com This plus the fact that he has played professionally abroad, will no doubt help him acclimate to our culture and Gilas' offensive and defensive patterns.
The last candidate would be Dwayne Jones of the Austin Toros. If the team feels a greater need for rebounding and scoring, Jones is the man. He is a monster of the boards, leading the NBDL by averaging over 15 a game (including 6 offensive). He is not bad on the offensive end either with averages of 16.8 points (on .611 shooting) and a respectable .704 free throw percentage. He blocks well too at 1.9 blocks a game. Certainly, if this 6'11", 251 pound forward-center can dominate the inside against future NBA stars, he would do well with the Smart Gilas team.
There you have it, three candidates I am almost certain will be the answer for the gaping hole our national team has in the middle. I hope you get the chance to contact them. Who knows, maybe they would find the prospect of joining our national team an enriching and fun experience.
Recently, Patrick "Pato" Gregorio, Smart Sports' top honcho, announced their intention of looking for more boxing prospects for the Amatuer Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP), even as far as the heavyweight division, since there are indeed fewer rivals in Asia in this weighty division. Then, it all just became surreal. Continuing his thoughts, Gregorio then revealed his intentions of talking to former Barako Bull Center Alex Crisano, in the hopes of convincing him to train and later compete... in the heavyweight division of boxing!!! WTF?!?!?! Okay, Crisano may be big and at 6 ft 7 inches, he would have a reach advantage, but he is old, can barely get by without alcohol and has not trained in boxing for three decades. Wow. Someone must have hit Gregorio on the head, hard... REALLY HARD. Maybe it was Ethel Booba.
Darko Freed!!??!!
Former 2nd overall pick Darko Milicic was so traumatized with his constant benching in his four stops (Detroit, Orlando, Memphis and New York) in the NBA that he announced his desire to leave the NBA for Europe next year. Suddenly though, the Minnesota Timberwolves traded for him in exchange for Brian Cardinal. The T-Wolves GM David Kahn then had a heart to heart with Darko, convincing him that he would get playing time if he wanted. Thus, in the T-Wolves outing versus the surging Oklahoma City Thunder, Milicic played 19 (!) productive minutes, scoring 8 points, grabbing 8 rebounds to go along with 2 assists and a block. Best of all, stats wise, the T-Wolves outscored the Thunder by 35 points during the time Milicic was on the court. WTF!!!???!!! Interviewed about his play, Milicic gave what will go down as one of the best sound bites in history, saying, "I was trying to focus on breathing. I was just focusing on breathing so I didn’t die."
Ripped Curl
In the ongoing 2010 Winter Olympics, Danish Curling Captain Madeleine Dupont cost her team the victory against home team Canada with two errant shots. Then, she cried (!) and blamed the Canadian fans, who were so raucous in distracting her. Apparently, such noisy cheering is only socially acceptable before and after shots, like in billiards, tennis or bowling. That, however, is not the WTF moment. What really got me was this thought. There are actually enough fans of curling to have caused such a ruckus to cause a distraction and missed shot? WTF!!??!! Think about that for while.
Sharwin L. Tee is Chef/Host of Lifestyle Network's Curiosity Got the Chef. He is a personal chef, catering to prominent families across Metro Manila, Philippines. He prepares meals for their sit down dinners and cocktail parties.
He is also a bowling coach. He was a member of the Philippine National Bowling Team coaching staff from 2006-07, and the head coach of the Xavier Bowling Team from 2000-present. He is one of the first Filipinos to be certified by the United States Bowling Congress as silver-certified coach.
Sharwin has also been an NBA fan for over 15 years, Philippine Basketball Association fan for over 20, Professional Bowlers' Association fan for over 14. He is also a fan of Boxing, MMA, Volleyball, WWE, and Tennis. For some reason, he has accumulated a scary amount of trivia in each of these sports.
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