Respect for the Reigning MVP, MC47

It seems to be the end of the world for the Ginebra Fans after seeing The Spark lying on the floor against their battle for semi-finals slot against Petron. You can see the frustration in the eyes of Team Manager Al Francis Chua as he tries to see the situation. It was again another injury for the reigning MVP.

Let us face it, Caguioa is not getting any younger but the skills and basketball IQ is still there. There is no doubt he can still battle against young players in the PBA today but his current injury is not in a good timing where BGSM badly needs the Spark. After that injury last night the whole team seems to lose their focus and their enthusiasm to win. It seems that they lost the game when Caguioa is

not on the floor.

Haters would always say that he is the most selfish player in the PBA today. But who are they to judge him? Mark Caguioa just want to win, he just want to go back to the finals and make the fans happy again. All his career he is always a candidate for the Best Player of the Conference and even a contender for the Most Valuable Player. Just last season when he is just ready to come back he even obtain to just sit on the bench just not to ruin the chemistry of the team. Just this conference he opted to be a decoy and pass the ball to his teammates. When that plan seems not been doing right he just decided to take it for himself and scored tremendously game after game.

They also said that he must retire, he is old and it is time to give his career and end. But, does he really needs to do it now. He is the last seasons MVP and despite of not playing an amount of games this season he is still ranked 3^rd in local scoring in the league. Can you see how much respect Coach Tim Cone is giving him? San Mig Coffee designed a play to trap Caguioa all game long. Coach Norman Black even given his new import the task to guard him on their knock-out game. Do we see how haters love to see him hurt and hope not to play? They are afraid of his skills. They know what the Spark can do.

In his age today, Caguioa is amazingly playing like he is 18 years old. The only player I saw play this good in that age is Alvin Patrimonio. And there is no doubt Alvin is one of the best player the PBA ever had. Caguioa is Caguioa, he can score when he wants to, when he needs to, when the team have to. He is still in the league because he is still can play. He still can play with HEART, PRIDE and SPIRIT.  If Caguioa cannot score anymore, if he cannot dominate games any longer he is gone in the team for a long time already.  But he is still there the heart and soul of the team.

We know he will be back, soon he will. Soon he will still make all fans happy with his nice perimeter jump shots, his fantastic crossover moves and his unstoppable tear drop. He will be back with a fresher legs because he has the HEART of what JAWO has before. Let us all give RESPECT for the best player of the PBA TODAY! JUST RESPECT!

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Video : LA Tenorio grilled on 'Ihaw Na!'

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Video : Brgy Ginebra vs Rain or Shine (Governors' Cup 9/14/2013)

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Video : Mac Baracel last 11 seconds (Ginebra vs ROS)

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TAPATAN NI TUNYING : WITH LA TENORIO

TAPATAN NI TUNYING : WITH LA TENORIO

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Game Replay : Ginebra vs Air21 (9/4/2013)

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Not a good start for the Kings, whom to blame?

It was a slow start for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel as they fall at the bottom of the standing 2^nd to Air 21 Express and tied with San Mig Coffee Mixers and Talk n Text Tropang Texters. With the kind of tournament format the PBA has for this year’s Governors Cup, no one can afford to a sluggish run in their campaign.

Dior Lowhorn is now center of attention, for critics and even some of the fans are not satisfied with his performance. Even before the start of the current conference there are rumors that Dior Lowhorn will be replaced by the Ginebra Management but still the franchise chose to stay with him. Is Lowhorn the real person to blame with our slow start?

POINTS PER GAME AVERAGE

Dior is averaging 25.3 points per game with 13.6 rebounds having a double double on his three games in the PBA. He has a good perimeter shooting and not to mention his good touch on the free throw line. In the game against Petron and Barako, the kings let them score over a 100 points, against Meralco they only let them score 85 points.  Ginebra is only averaging 94.6 PPG and they cannot afford to let their opponent to score more than their average points per game.

LOCAL SUPPORT

When we won a game against Meralco Bolts the contribution from the local players is bizarre, they contributed 81 points while the team only averages 63.5 points against Petron and Barako Bull with 66 and 61 points respectively. The rotation of the ball is tremendous when we play against the Bolts and we are able to feed the ball properly in a way that we are able to find open shots.

DEFENSE

For a team to be able to do well on offense they must do well as well on defense. The Kings defense in their two losses is not something to be brag about. Easy baskets where given to our opponents were it limits our chances of doing our fast breaks where we get more of our points. The injury of Japeth Aguilar is really a big factor we are not able to defend well. He is out from the latter part of the first quarter where he is our last line of defense.

Again to sum it all, it will still be a difficult situation for Dior Lowhorn. Being a Ginebra import is so much fun but you must perform. Perform well not only on points but to execute well to entertain the fans, perform well to dominate the game and perform well to keep the crowd alive. Dior is the one we need if you are doing to think of his game play. He can rebound and score inside the paint something that we need a lot without HBOMB and the Kid. But still Dior some one that is easy to defend in the  PBA. He is no doubt a scorer and an awesome player but his kind of game is an OLD SCHOOL power forward.

It will now be within the management if they will stick on him or not. But let us face the fact that basketball is not a one man game. Any import may score 50 plus points a game but without his teammates backing him up it would be useless.

We might be seeing a new reinforcement come Wednesday if Ginebra fails to win against Alaska Aces on Sunday. 

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Battle of the two Eagle Guards

This coming PBA Friday it would be the Gin Kings next assignment as they battle against the current number one team in today’s current number one seed in the standings, the Barako Bull Energy Cola. For the past three games of Barako Bull, they showed that they are a team tougher to beat this conference.

Leading the Colas would be Eman Monfort a former Ateneo Blue Eagle point guard who is currently doing well this conference. Even though he is the smallest PBA player today, Monfort serves as the main energy guy for his team. However, another Ateneo Blue Eagle Guard will clash against Monfort where LA Tenorio of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel just done an amazing career game last time against Meralco Bolts and declared as the best player of the game soon announced as the PBA Player of the week.

Both guards may have similarity in their game play. But LA Tenorio with his professional experience in the league and in international basketball, he has the edge against Eman.

Game will be held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum at around 7:30 in the evening  August 30, 2013.

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Coach Al : What make us love him this much?

It is a different feeling, it is so devastating, and it was truly a shocker but what can a fan do it this kind of situation. Remember the first day he came in for us? We are struggling it might be the team it might be the coaching staff or the management; but we still found out way to succeed. We we’re pointing it all out to the coaching staff, we need someone who can bring our moral up and bring back what the Big J started. He came and became the father of the team, he was with us when we are 0-4 and never stop believing that Ginebra is still the Kings.

We all still believe back then that we are the “never say die” team but truth enough for more than a decade since The Living Legend left us we never had that passion. We fans just believe in it, the players just say it but we cannot see it. Until he came, until he lead us, until our players woke up. Yes after almost 10 years we again saw the “NEVER SAY DIE” Team of Ginebra; fighting, dreaming and believing on their selves and the legacy of being the Kings.

Jawo might be the Father of the Never Say Die Spirit but Coach Al was the reincarnation of him. He might not be a great player like Jawo was, but it feels like in every touch of his fist on the air you can feel the spirit, the dream is being mold and soon will come true.

It was a wonderful dream that became a nightmare, we will again see a great coach leaving the team for a certain reason. Critics may say he is not the best and never proved himself in coaching  a team in the PBA but if you will think of it Coaching a team is not just about winning it is about how you play the game. Great coaches never won a trophies but respect.

However, I think this is destiny; Coach Al Francis Chua came to the team for a purpose, he made us feel that the NEVER SAY DIE attitude is BACK and ALIVE. For what purpose that he came and go, he was like the savior that we are long waiting for. His resignation might be final or not but one thing is for sure, he not leading the team is like breaking up with your BF/GF that you truly love so much.

Why are we so hurt about his resignation, did we felt this bad when we heard that Jowarski will be leaving the team? We then I supposed we loved him like a family the way an organization should be. It is fair enough to thank him for everything, but let us face it we still hope that #coachalwillstay. 

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ASImpossible to be with the Kings

Asi "The Rock" Taulava is the hottest player today. Maybe not in the PBA because currently he his not part of the league but all the rumors that coming out here and there made the fans excited of what would be the next chapter of Taulava's professional career.

There is no doubt about it that Asi was one of the most dominant center in PBA History. Since he was drafted by the Mobiline team in 1999 he was a threat for many big man in the league. A Most Valuable Player  in 2003, 3 and 2 times member of the Mythical first and second team, 2003 All Filipino Best Player of the Conference, 2003 Finals MVP and 2 All Star MVP's. 

 Asi "The Rock" Taulava is the hottest player today. Maybe not in the PBA because currently he his not part of the league but all the rumors that coming out here and there made the fans excited of what would be the next chapter of Taulava's professional career.

There is no doubt about it that Asi was one of the most dominant center in PBA History. Since he was drafted by the Mobiline team in 1999 he was a threat for many big man in the league. A Most Valuable Player  in 2003, 3 and 2 times member of the Mythical first and second team, 2003 All Filipino Best Player of the Conference, 2003 Finals MVP and 2 All Star MVP's

However, the rock is only human, he gets weak, gets slow, gets old. Meralco Boltz the owner of Asi Taulava's Playing rights in PBA thought that it is the end for his career. His playing time is very limited and he sometimes used to sit on the bench in a whole game. It seems that Asi Taulava waited for his contract to end and decided not to renew with the Boltz. Asi wants to play with Ginebra but he cannot just be with the Kings if the Boltz will not release him so he went to San Miguel Beermen in the ABL.

Now, Asi just won the Most Valuable Player Award in ABL and there is only a month remaining before the next season of the PBA. Will Asi's dream of wearing a Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Jersey will come true? All he needs to do right now is to wait and pray that everything will come his way because Meralco Boltz just saw him getting rusted and after him being vocal on wanting to be part of Ginebra and the Boltz knowing that Ginebra is missing a legitimate center they saw this big loop hole to at least use Asi to get precious players from us.

So,  in simple human mind let us do the deal and have a trade but whom do we trade for Asi? Who can we sacrifice for Asi? Who is the unlucky player to leave the team for Asi? Let us try every player  if it is possible or not.

Let us start with players who are impossible to be traded even for Asi. Mark Caguioa, Rudy Hatfield, Jayjay Helterbrand, LA Tenorio, Japeth Aguilar, Kerby Raymundo and Chris Ellis. Those personnel are the players that from my assessment Ginebra will not be traded for Asi. Definitely, the Boltz will not make a deal for Rob Labagala, in due respect to Rob but if he will be traded with Asi it would be 2 more players along with him will be traded.

Let us try single player deal, first scenario Asi to Dylan Ababou, it might be a good deal for the Boltz because they need a scorer since they do not have one, especially Mac Cardona is very inconsistent   on his offense. But we all know that Dylan just came from injury and it is not a simple injury but a serious one that may affect his playing skills so Boltz might still pass this option.

Mac Baracael, this is the player that  might do the deal as well for Asi. A person can score inside and outside , some kind of a player that the Boltz might need. But again, after his good performance last conference can we afford to let go of Baracael. Josh Urbiztondo, he is the player the Boltz needs the most. Josh was always the center point of the trade but why the deal is not being settled. It is because they needed more. Other players on our roster are not that eye of target for the Boltz though.

Clear enough it is impossible to see him play for us. It might be the best line up in PBA History but it is really hard to see right now after we've been through to see one of the current roster leave the team. We just have to remember that the team is stronger now than last conference. We are much bigger now and though we are big we can run. Ginebra Fans may have different prospective about Asi being in the team but let us face the truth, it will make the Kings a much stronger team if there is a Rock on our side.

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The Kings has nothing to be ashamed of

It was a disappointing Finals series against Alaska Aces. It was like in the 90's where Alaska is the most dominant team in the PBA but here goes the underdog Ginebra (Gordon Gin's) stealing the title from the Aces. I never have a doubt that all that the Ginebra fans who watched the rivalry of both teams in the 90's thought that the title will be within our hands at the end of the today's series. Nevertheless, it was like a broken dream for the fans and the team where we never had a chance to win even one game in the finals. But do we need to grieve on this or just move on? 

Starting this conference we are not the team we are use to be now. Looking the team before it was every man on his own. But look what the team is made of now, they are like brothers, like family, thicker than blood. It seems that you can never let each and every one far from each other.  If before it is very evident on the floor that there is no chemistry on our team but look at them now.

It was always 50% performance in the standings for few years now for us. No one ever thought that we could be beating the toughest teams in the league. No one ever thought of that we could climbed from the 10th seed going up to the 3rd seed and even had a chance in one instant that we could even go up to 2nd seed. 

Having an unhealthy roster is a big factor teams are being eliminated. Having Dylan Ababou, Mark Caguioa, Billy Mamaril and Kerby Raymundo missing games because of their injuries and we even went to win the Quarter Finals and the Semi Finals. Teams we beaten  are the toughest team in the PBA today. 

We even change coaches from Coach Siot to Coach Al. We traded players that we love that we truly felt so bad especially Maliksi. We had good players like Kerby Raymundo, LA Tenorio, Mac Baracael and Josh Urbiztondo but just for a year we lost very talented players like Mike Cortez, John Wilson, Niño Cañaleta , Ronald Tubid, Erik Menk and Enrico Villanueva. Those players who also sacrifice and fought for their lives to play with the Ginebra Jersey. 

All the players leaving Ginebra has just one thing in common. They are so miserable leaving the Kings and wearing different Jerseys. Can someone tell me which player in the PBA today will say that they never want  or wish to play for Ginebra. Even the most dominant big man in the PBA History, Asi Taulava is very vocal to say that he wants to play and finish his career as a Ginebra player.

This sentiment of mine must be long now but you might be missing the point. We've been through this a lot of times already. We are even being beaten so badly before. We still go to their practice like we do not have any other things to do watching them do their jobs. We never get tired going to any game venue to stamp our feet on the floor while yelling "GINEBRA, GINEBRA, GINEBRA". We never stopped on designing all those Tarpaulins that we are bringing anywhere the team is. 

Alaska Aces are so healthy that there is no player is hurt. They had the easiest way going to the Finals. They fought and beaten not that tough teams like what we had to go to the Finals. Their import is so healthy not like Vernon Macklin go went to the Finals hurting. They local key players are so healthy not like MC47 and LA who are playing hurt in the series. They said that it is a mismatch, yes indeed they are correct. But just imagine if the team is healthy, do you think the Aces can dominate the series? 

The bottom line is, we still support them, love them, fight for them, die for them. From the Big J to MC47. To the Spark and I believe in the future to LA, we fans and the team has nothing to be ashamed of. We made this far even we had the weakest team due to injuries. Our team support each other, love us, fight for us, die for us. This is a undying relationship that started decades ago. We just need to understand that this is not about Alaska winning the Finals. It is about what kind of team we are going to be next conference. We are so good loosing key players, next conference we are all complete. So, it is for them to beware.

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Game Plan : Ginebra vs Alaska Game 2 Finals

After a solid beating from Alaska Aces at Game 1 the People's Champ Barangay Ginebra San Miguel must work double time to forced a tie in the best of five series in the 2013 PBA

Commissioners Cup Finals. They are facing a very tough team and it is very evident in their first meeting that the Aces has the advantage in their match up. These are the things we need to consider to win Game 2 of this series;

VMACK ATTACK

Vernon Macklin proved that he can score in the paint if he wants to but he was contained by the Alaska Aces defense last Wednesday at the Araneta. We cannot afford Vmack scoring less than 20 points; so, we must give him more touches on the paint. Let the defense of the Aces draw to him and Vernon has the skill

to pass the ball outside if  needed. 

DEFENSE IS THE KEY

Alaska Aces is the number 1 defensive team this conference and we cannot beat them if we will let them score easy baskets. We must make sure that we play good defense and limit their assists per game.

OFFENSIVE MENTALITY

It seems that we are afraid to pull the trigger especially Chris Ellis and Kerby Raymundo. It is difficult to play Dozier at the post so Kerby Raymundo must not be ashamed of taking the perimeter shots to force the Aces import not to stay at the paint. If the Kid can make those shots he can draw Robert Dozier  outside and   there would be more chances for the guards to go hard to the basket and more chances as well to get offensive rebounds.

GOOD BALL ROTATION

Alaska Aces defense will be broken if we are able to rotate the ball properly and make our basket out of assists. We must confuse the defense of the Aces, remember we have so many scorers in our roster that we could rely to.

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The Kings late to realize they are on the Finals

It was a fantastic start for the Alaska Aces their opponent only score 6 points in a quarter is remarkable. Ginebra is known to win a game scoring more than 90 points but again their points is limited due to the sticky defense that the Aces played in the first quarter of the game 1 of the Finals. All necessary tactics were done by Coach Al Francis Chua but nothing seems to go Ginebra's way. Even worsts the reigning MVP Mark Caguioa is forced to play in the second quarter hoping to have contributions in points.

It is very evident that Ginebra is not ready last night to fight. It seems that they were too overwhelmed them being in the finals, after being so down in the eliminations. But what is the real reason why we we're beaten by the Alaska Aces? The Aces defense is the big factor why they won the game. Not to mention the shots for Ginebra is not going through even though they have good looks on the basket.  Assist also is one factor for our failure, we let them rotate the ball so good having more than 20 assists last night and we are not even close enough to what stats they have in assist. Six players for Alaska scored double digits but it is only Vernon Macklin and LA Tenorio had double digits for the team.

Regardless of any reason, we lost the game because we did not play good defense on the first place. Their highest scorer is Jazul with 16 and even their import only scored 14 points. So, it is not how they shoot the ball it is all about how we play defense. Defense can only beaten by good defense. If they will not let us score let them not score any basket as well. 

The bottom line is we are asleep all game long, I even thought one time it is even much better for the team to walk out rather than  to receive the beating they are having. But the good thing about it is that we are able to put the lead closer at the last minute of the fourth quarter. But it was too late for the team, we woke up late to realize that going to the finals will not give us the trophy. Having a come back against a defensive team is not easy at all. This is a good sign for the team. We still have the whole series to adjust and come back. After all the we've been through this conference I know we can bounce back. It is really just an off night for the team.

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Game Plan : Ginebra vs Alaska Game 1 Finals

It will be a tough battle again for the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel for the Finals of the 2013 Commissioner's Cup as they battle the number one team all conference long, the Alaska Aces. No one ever expect that the Kings will be at the Finals but they we're able to knocked out two star studded team in the PBA today with Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and Talk n Text Tropang Texters.

With the Aces consistency this conference, the Barangay is again in their known position. They are again being considered as the under dog in this Best of Five series. For us to be able to beat Alaska we must take consider the following:

Shut down the Beast

This is the main concern we have to do, Calvin Abueva plays off the bench but every time he plays inside the court you will feel his presence. It does not matter if it is offense or defense the Beast is always effective for the Aces so we need to limit Calvin on having those offensive rebounds and we have to limit him to run on fast   breaks. 

Share the Ball

It shows that we did not share the ball that much as they did where in our elimination battle they had 17 assists while we only got 13. So we must share the ball and beat the Aces with assists. We've done it against TNT at the semi finals and it would be effective as well to beat the Aces.

Eye on Casio and the Boss

Jayvee Casio serves as the main guy of the offense of the Alaska Aces. We have to force him play defense against LA Tenorio. So LA must attack the defense of Casio. We also need to limit Sonny Thoss on taking perimeter shots.

Play double time

In our last meeting against the Alaska Aces , Mark Caguioa is the high scorer for the game but we still went home being beaten by the Aces. With the Spark still doubt to play for this series, guys like LA Tenorio,  Chris Ellis and Mac Baracael must help Vernon Macklin on points.

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Video : Game 5 Ginebra vs TNT Replay

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Ginebra : Never doubt the heart of the People's Champ

It was indeed an exciting series between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and Talk n Text Tropang Texters, when everybody thought that TNT will have the first spot on the finals after beating the Kings two in a row. Game 2 and 3 is a disaster for the Poeple' Champ where they are not able to execute well on their offense and they seems to be shocked of how the way Tropang Texters play their defense.

It was predicted to be a long series since Ginebra is known to be like it; having been again in the same position since the franchise was establish, the team was the underdog, the under rated and the least team to expect to win each and every game. After a monster beating they had last Game 3 of the series the Kings fought like there is no tomorrow. The same kind of game they played against Rain or Shine last semi finals of the current conference. 

Ginebra seems to know how to win in the most critical scenario that they will ever be. TNT may say that they have the Heart of the Champion which is not questionable due to their championship experience and titles this current generation but you may never put into doubt the Heart of the People's Champ, the Heart and Soul of the PBA, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and they did not just have that spirit yesterday it lives on for more than 2 decades.

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Video : Game 4 Ginebra vs TNT Replay

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The King is Physically Fit but not Emotionally ready

The leagues top local scorer is in the sideline for few months now due to a knee injury and fans are waiting for his return. Many speculations came out that in Game 3 he will be back to play to help his team be part of the 2013 Commissioners Cup Finals. In the last All Star Game, Mark Caguioa was expected to be there but people thinks he will not play due to his injury. But no one can stop the "Heart of the PBA" not to play. Obviously, he played for the fans but it is a risky gamble for him to play in a non bearing game. 

Playing just limited minutes in the said All Star Game against Smart Gilas you can observe that  Caguioa can move, jump, run a bit and shoot the ball. He can even battle for rebounds but as he said he is some kind of afraid to force it. Definitely, you can see on the game that he is really not forcing it but what is the real reason why? Knowing him for few years now, every time he play he make sure that he will give it all on the game. But that is not what we saw last Sunday. 

He barely jump when he took a shot, when he runs it seems that he is carrying his feet so gentle on the floor. He said that he is not feeling any pain, but let us face it in a non bearing game we are used to see Mark Caguioa showing his dribbling skills and crossover moves against his opponent. 

If we will consider everything, GAME 3 might be his come back, he might play tonight but are we going to see him play the same game as he is doing this conference. Taking note of his doctor he is fit to play tonight .Physically he is but not emotionally. Caguioa is afraid to make mistake of forcing his knee and being sidelined again. Being in his position is really not that easy, this is another opportunity for them and I believe he is just doubtful if this is really the right timing for his come back. Even the coaching staff of Barangay Ginebra I think can see that he is not emotionally ready because if so they will not let all the decision to Caguioa if he wants to play or not.

What ever happens tonight, if he will play or not, we just need to hope that he will be the same Mark Caguioa we have known before, Fearless!

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Air Force Ellis can Fly Fly Fly!

Chris Ellis of the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel was the early favorite for the 2013 All Star Slum Dunk Competition and he seems to prove all speculations right. Air Force Ellis with his finest and high leaping ability had a perfect 50 points on the Elimination round for him to advance in the Finals of the Slam Dunk Competition. 

Ellis first dunk is an one hand wind mill with all the legs like walking on the air. "The first one is what I call the Skywalker Dunk" the current Slam Dunk Champion said. Chris Ellis dedicated that dunk to Samboy Lim and it is very evident on that first dunk of Ellis where he is like walking on the Air while flying.

His second dunk was a ball bouncing the floor and the back board with a wind mill slam. The underdog of the competition Elmer Espiritu also went to the final round with Ellis where Elmer even led the first round of the championship round but Ellis redeemed himself with with a spectacular reverse wind mill slam but do not forget the Vince Carter dunk that he did with his elbow hanging on the rim.

Sports analyst and fans are now looking for more slam dunk titles for Chris Ellis in the future.

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Chris Ellis for All Star Slum Dunk Champion

This week is all set up for the 2013 PBA All Star where the most exciting part of the All Star is the Slam Dunk competition. With KG Cañaleta not being part of the said competition who will be the next to grab his crown as the best slam dunk player in PBA History. Without Kelly Williams out of the league due to injury and Gabe Norwood being part of Gilas, it seems that three of the most high flying players in the league will miss this years slam dunk competition. Coach Chot Reyes of Smart Gilas does not want any Gilas players to be part of the Slam Dunk and Three point shoot out.

But nothing to worry about, if we think that this might be the most lousy All Star Slum Dunk competition, we better think twice. The most electrifying, high flyer and intense player in the PBA today is more favored to win today's Slam Dunk Competition. He has been doing a lot of fantastic dunks from the start he came in the league and basically the most finest dunk we ever saw in a local player in over a decade now.

The rookie from the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, Chris Ellis will compete for the Slam Dunk Competition together with team mate Elmer Espiritu, Calvin Abueva of Alaska Aces and Cliff Hodge of the Meralco Bolts. It is very evident that among all the mentioned players Ellis has the highest jump. However, we cannot underestimate the power slams that Cliff Hodge can do. It will be a Ellis versus Hodge, beauty versus power come the All Star Slam Dunk Competition.

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The King of the Kings will be back!

The Hearth of the PBA and the King of the Kings is expected to play this coming May 8, Wednesday, Game 3 of the Semi-Finals game against TNT. Mark Caguioa, missed a lot of games from the eliminations and only expected to be out for a week, but made into a month and now it is more than a month that Caguioa is not able to play with his team. 

After the game 2 against TNT it is very evident that the team is missing a GO-TO-GUY when they badly need to have a basket. As Vernon Macklin being guarded so well, Kerby Raymundo looks so tired on the early games of the series, LA Tenorio is playing hurt that may cause him not to play not 100% it will go down to the fact that Ginebra really needs to have The Spark back.

Caguioa, still stays as the most productive local player in points per game averaging 22.78 PPG and missing 20 points per game is not that easy especially against a defensive team like TNT. Just imagine if Caguioa is playing at the last 30 seconds last night where they badly need to score, I believe if he is there he is the one shooting the ball and a much higher percentage that he will make the shot.

“I think Mark needs two more weeks, that’s the best scenario… a safe time frame, he’ll be good come semis,” this was the message given by medicine physician Dr. Raul Canlas said last April 22, 2013 in an interview. There are also rumors that the Spark will be back playing the Game 3 of the Semi Finals.

“I just don’t want Mark to force his return, I want him to do steady sure recovery… para walang long-term (ill) effects,” added by Dr. Canlas. 

Mark Caguioa also tweeted a big mystery on his twitter account that says "#GAME3". Is this an indication that he will be back? Taking note what his doctor said it is two weeks more last April 22, 2013 and their next game would be on May 8, That is more than two weeks, and seeing Mark in uniform and having his shooting drills before the game this semi-finals, it seems that May 8 is the comeback day that we are long waiting for.

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What is the missing link?

A lot of speculations are being done after the previous game of Ginebra and Talk n Text, where the Tropang Texters able to succeed and stole one game against the Kings. What was the real reason why TNT won Game 2? Here are the answers:

Defense

Talk n Text really played tremendous defense against Ginebra. They just limit the Kings with 79 points at the end of the game. We did good defense as well giving TNT an average of only 80 points per game, a Semi Final average for the tropang texters but still we came short. We cannot win not scoring more than 90 points against TNT.

Vmack's points is limited

Due to the TNT's defense Vernon Macklin only had 15 points where he is averaging 24.50 PPG. The lead of TNT is only six (6) points, imagine if Vernon scored upon his average we might won the game. But is is not that Vernon is not shoot

ing good. It is because TNT played a good night defending Vernon.

Free throws

We only shot 47.6% on the free throw line while TNT had 71.4%. We missed 11 out of 21 free throws given to us. The texters only missed six (6) points at the fifth teen foot line. Counting the ratio if we made all our free throws we might able to win the game. 

Cannot stop Jayson Castro

From the start of the semi-finals, Jayson Castro seems to be the problem for Ginebra. It seems that they never know how to stop his blazing speed driving the painted lane.

Ginebra really did a good game last night. They really just came short. TNT last night won the game but they never got it that easy. We just need to adjust the next game and take note of these missing links that we had.

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Ginebra came short against TNT

At the beginning, the Game 2 of Ginebra and TNT shows that the Tropang Texters are there to redeem themselves after the beating they had at the Game 1 of semi finals. TNT has a strong start at the first three minutes of the game having an early 2-10 lead. However, Ginebra players able to bounce back with Coach Al Francis Chua's 3 Guard Combo. This combination was used at the remaining two minutes of the first game against ROS last quarter finals and it seems to still be effective against TNT.

But, the much experienced team at the playoffs take good care of their lead up until the run made by Ginebra at the last minute of the 3rd quarter that gave the Kings a nine point lead at the start of the 4th quarter. TNT is more determine to win and able to pressure the Kings up until the last minute where De Ocampo buried a game finishing shot at the three points.

TALK N’ TEXT 85 – Castro 22, Alapag 17, De Ocampo 16, Jordan 14, Carey 6, Al-Hussaini 5, Reyes 4, Aban 1, Raymundo 0, Fonacier 0, Ferriols 0.

BARANGAY GINEBRA 79 – Raymundo 17, Macklin 15, Urbiztondo 15, Helterbrand 12, Tenorio 8, Ellis 6, Taha 2, Baracael 2, Maierhofer 2.

Quarterscores: 22-20, 47-44, 59-68, 85-79

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Put your hands up!

This is one most beautiful photo taken from Game 1 Semi Finals between  Ginebra and Talk n Text. Look at Jayjay Helterbrand, he might be thinking that he is not that old and he still has the gun to fire. Let us try to caption some person from this photo and let us try to get something from it.

Coach Al Francis Chua

Look how Coach Al hold his right fist pointing to the TNT's bench. Thus he telling the Tropang Texters that the basket Jayjay just made was a Knockout punch?

Samboy Lim

So lazy to get up maybe all those metal planted on his knees are too much weight. Kidding aside, it is been a long time I haven't seen him smiling.

Rob Labagala

He is yelling his throat out of his neck. Too much energy from that Gatorade he is holding. 

Dylan Ababou

He is holding his chest like he will just get a heart attack from that shot.

Chris Ellis

Maybe the most electrifying player from the roster today but look at how he scream. But owww, is he screaming or crying for joy.

Rico Maierhofer

Now correct me if I am wrong, is he the one holding the marking board? He maybe want to coach in the future. 

Mark Caguioa and LA Tenorio

This is my favorite scene on this photo. I loved this photo and it is not how the way LA screams but how Mark carries LA like a kid. It feels like the spirit of Jawo was transferred to Mark and now the Spark will soon hand it over to Tenorio.

The Crowd

Of course, the most important subject of this photo. The Ginebra fans, the undying joy they have seeing their favorite team play this well. 

You, what do you think about each and every person in this photo. What do you think they are thinking that time?

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Vmack's Revenge!

The first meeting of Vernon Macklin and Jerome Jordan was a nightmare for the Ginebra's import, where it seems that Jordan was ready for the battle inside and made the paint as if it is his territory as limiting Vernon for only 12 points at the end of their game last eliminations.

Vernon is an effective player inside the paint and had been successful taking over that side of the court with different imports. But Jordan put the powerful import into shame. Many people said that it will be the same thing again for Macklin come Game 1. They assumed that Vernon already found his dilemma with Jerome Jordan. However, VMack proved all critics wrong. He managed to finish the game with 25 points, 9 rebounds and gathered 1 steal, block and assists. His stats is not far away from Jordan but the beating that the TNT's import received from Vmack is very evident.

Jordan has difficulty guarding Vernon especially the Ginebra's import is not posting up Jordan, he is facing Jordan with the ball and using his quickness he will drive into the basket which is very effective all night long. Vernon dominated the paint with his powerful and high flying dunks. Taking the fact that Jordan only scores a  lot of points at the end game using long jumpers with a much lousy defense because Ginebra is just hanging on with a big lead. With Dawson's and Dunigan's team already eliminated, it seems that it is only Vernon Macklin that is left for Robert Dozier's rival for the current conference Best Import Award. 

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No Signal! Ginebra shuts down TNT!

At the very start of the semi-finals opener between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel against superstar lineup   of the Talk n Text Tropang Texters, it is very clear that the game plan of the Texters is to start aggressive on attacking Ginebra's defense. After having the first 2 points of the game it seems that TNT forgotten how to shoot a ball. They were shocked with the way  Ginebra played defense with them and the rampage started.

Another game plan for the TNT is to limit Vernon Macklin of scoring form the inside, but it seems that Ginebra is ready for that, they let Vernon as a decoy and kick out the ball to all their shooters. It is a blazing hot first quarter for the team where they knock basket after basket not to mention all the long shots that Baracael made. The aggressive game of Chris Ellis is also fantastic where he draw defense and kick out or take it strong to the basket.

Everybody from the Ginebra roster is scoring while Jordan and the Texters are straggling  the whole game. People said that they are unlucky today that they are not making their baskets but they must give credit to the Ginebra defense that shuts down TNT's offense.

The main reason for Ginebra's win today is defense, outside shots, aggressiveness and kudos the chemistry of the team. Urbiztondo played like he was with the team for decades, Vernon crashes down Jordan and Kerby Raymundo played like he was still in his young age as he was awarded the best player of the game.

The scores:

BARANGAY GINEBRA 104 – Macklin 25, Raymundo 14, Ellis 13, Baracael 12, Urbiztondo 12, Tenorio 8, Helterbrand 8, Maierhofer 5, Labagala 2, Wilson 2, Hatfield 2, Taha 1, Espiritu 0.

TALK ‘N TEXT 81 – Jordan 21, Castro 18, De Ocampo 12, Al-Hussaini 6, Reyes 6, Ferriols 5, Fonacier 4, Alapag 3, Raymundo 2, Aban 2, Carey 2, Dillinger 0.

Quarterscores: 33-15, 59-36, 81-56, 104-81

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Poll : Ginebra Versus San Mig Coffee for Finals

As of today, the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and San Mig Coffee Mixers are the teams that fans wanted to be at the Finals of the 2013 Commissioners Cup. Even though the Semi-Finals of the current conference have not started yet.

Currently, the match up between the Mixers and the Barangay leads the poll with 55% of votes followed by Alaska vs Ginebra with 26.4%, San Mig versus TNT at the third with 9.95% and Alaska versus TNT with 8:75%. 

We can never question the result of this poll since both teams have the most number of fans in the league. In this current conference both the Kings and the Mixers have a bad start at the eliminations but both won with heart and pride in the quarter finals battle they have against the Elasto Painters and the Bolts. In seems that PBA fans wanted to see a Manila Clasico this Finals and they missed to watch the old rivalry had before. Remember the classical games between Ginebra and Purefoods back in the 90's, which is unforgettable for both fans.

Considering the survey that being done by http://www.interaksyon.com/interaktv, is shows as well that Ginebra is the most wanted team to be part of the Finals. Nevertheless, it is still too early to say and too early to predict if what team will succeed and win the series in the semifinals. But still everybody wants to have a Manila Clasico Finals this conference.

Poll is still being done at www.interaksyon.com; stats still may change. Vote now!

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Photo : Game 1 - Ginebra vs TNT Match up

Tell us your predictions and thoughts of today's Game 1 of Ginebra and Talk n Text. Put your comment on the comment box at the chat box for us to know what is on your mind about the game today.

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"Mayayabang yang mga fans na yan e" from another team's fan

 At First I don't know why a fan from another team don't like the fans of The barangay Ginebra to be happy. Why ?
Why ?

why other fans don't want to see ginebra fans enjoying the win?
why other fans always thinks that fans of ginebra are boastful every time the team wins a game?
why other fans always criticize us fans of ginebra ?

Since 2008, the team is hungry for a championship. It's been almost 5 long years of championship drought. 5 long years of suffering from every losses. For every time the team undergoes elimination.

It's been long hard 5 years for us fans. Don't you understand that. That fans have been through many unfortunate events in that 5 years. Let me enumerate some of them.

Fans witnessed numbers of trade. some of the are unfair trades. Seeing your favorite player transferring to another team is hard but that is basketball the only constant thing is change.

Having the opportunity to win a championship but not making it.

Import drama.. Import not shooting free throws and complaining every time that cost the team early conference exit

Win-loss-Win-loss conference..

The 5 game losing streak.

The coach changing dramas.

All those injuries of our favorite players

Ageing problem of my Idols.

The 0-4 start..

As a fan all those things are the reasons why the fans are happy every time the wins a game. Every shot are blessing for them. Every missed shots are blessings in disguise. every shot of rudy hatfield while laying on the floor is a miracle.

every time that coach al taps a player , that player might be the key,
every dunks and blocks of players like macklin, ellis, and kerby. are chant starters.

that's what's going to our minds every game of ginebra..

"Ginebra is battered, bruised, and beat-up. But they’re not broken. They’ve taken the power of belief and they used it as a shield against all of their doubters, both internally and from outside forces. Together with the millions of fans, they will continue to believe, even against the gauntlet that they face in Talk N’ Text." - (Polo Bustamante GMA NETWORK)

for the sake of other fans..

We fans of barangay ginebra san miguel cherish every single game like a CHAMPIONSHIP game.
LAHING GINEBRA ata kami.

Maybe we don't have RECENT CHAMPIONSHIP to have our bragging rights but we fans of barangay ginebra san miguel will always be there win or lose. We will not stop.. Call us uneducated .Invent funny names . But we barangay ginebra fans are not bandwagoners. WE are the fans who always endure the long waiting lines to the ticket booth. We are the fans with lots of gimmicks , Banners to prove how much we love our team.

IT'S BETTER TO DIE THAN TO SEE THE GINEBRA LOSE.
MARRY ME VEVE KO VMACK.
MARRY ME ELLIS.

those banners are the most memorable why?

ELLIS AND VMACK are new comers. ELLIS a rookie, and Vmack the reinforcement.
every time a new player lands to the barangay. EXPECT 100% trust and admiration from us fans.

Every time another player accidentally hurt the players of barangay ginebra expect the BOO from the crowd.
Every time we lose. expect fans who will post something on social networking sites.

CAUSE WE ARE THE FANS OF THE BARANGAY GINEBRA SAN MIGUEL. THE NEVER SAY DIE FANS. THE FANS OF THE TEAM. FROM THE START OF THE VERY FIRST GAME UP TO THE TIME THE TEAM EXITS. EXPECT DRAMA! EXPECT EMOTIONS! EXPECT EVERYTHING FROM US. EXPECT EVERYTHING FROM THE GREATEST FANS OF BASKETBALL!

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Kings vs Champs : The Battle of Heart versus Skills!

Tomorrow would be the start of the much awaited battle between the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel versus the Talk n Text Tropang Texters. Both teams came from a crazy elimination run but both showed domination on their opponents the last quarter finals. However, come to think of it it will be again a huge series for the kings as they try to win against the proven championship team like TNT.

It seems that between this two teams Ginebra again is the under dog, the David against Goliath and the peoples champ versus the champs. Compare it to whatever high and low, poor and rich, strong and weak still whatever the expert opinion is, the media's article that TNT has an advantage and what ever the haters prediction is, still you can never say that the team of Coach Norman will dominate the Kings.

If you will compare the skills of both teams well they seems not to be far enough to each other. If they have Castro we have Urbiztondo, if they have a clutch player in Alapag we have LA, if they have Fonacier shooting on the outside well we have Helterbrand. Well in defense, can their best defender in a flesh of Reyes can guard Vmack like what Hatfield can do to the TNT's import.

Roster wise they seems to be match, they said that it is the experience that will prevail, what are they talking about? Have'nt they forgotten? This is Ginebra they are against with. The team who started 0-4 and won 6 games in a row and defeated a tough team in the quarter finals of this conference. Have they forgotten that the leading scorer for all locals will be back this series. Can those championships that TNT recently had can be converted in points come the semi-finals.

We eat the same food, we are standing the same ground, we live the same place, we play the same ball and we shoot the same ring. It seems that we are all the same. TNT and the GIN's are all equal. Go ahead haters, media and experts predict whatever you want to predict but do not be a prophet of basketball; if you wish then write your own Bible and preach them to all your fellow haters. We Ginebra fans have breeding not like what you think against us. We do not predict that our team will win. We do not have your team because they are winning. In all the games that our team is playing we only trust our players that they will give it all because that it what we are made of, a fighter. 

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GINEBRA MAGIC

It's Not How You Start but How You Finish

From 0-4, Barangay Ginebra will enter the semi finals against Talk-and-Text. After the slow start of the conference barangay ginebra goes 7-7 including 6 game winning steak. With things not going into their way the team never break apart but instead they ties up with everyone and put their faith and trust to each other. That's the formula of coach Al Francis Chua.

Timely Trade

Everyone was shocked with the last trade happened before the trade deadline last Thursday March 18, 2013. Ginebra acquired streak shooting point guard Josh Urbiztondo from the Barako Bull Energy Cola for Keith Jensen a seldom used forward and a 2nd round draft pick. Another Guard? With the Mark Caguioa out of the game because of his injury.

In-And-Out Game

With Vernon Macklin being doubled inside the shaded area. The team changed their game plan. The In-and-Out game. Giving the opportunity to Kerby Raymundo and JJ Helterbrand to  once again showcase their talents. Vernon Macklin is willing to give to ball to anyone who is free to shoot the ball and he is not forcing to take diffucult shots. Another key for this style is the newcomer Josh Urbiztondo who can attack the basket and pass the ball to open players.

FAITH OVER PRESSURE

Coach Al Francis Chua giving all out trust to his Import Vernon Macklin. I told Vernon na "I'll Stick with you If you miss freethrows, you miss freethrows but I trust you." VMACK,a 47 percent free throw shooter, hits two important free throws of the game. His weakness became the offensive last weapon of the team.

"Sabi ko sa kanila sa dugout before this game (against rain or shine), Manalo, Matalo may practice pa rin tayo bukas." said chua. Giving all his trust to ever single player of the team. 

READY FOR THE DEJAVU

Whoa.. It seems like will be witnessing a dejavu of the what happen last 2008. 5 years ago, Barangay Ginebra was on the same place right now. Having a slow start of 0-5 (2008) but the team still managed to go up to the finals and crowned as the Fiesta Conference champions. I can still remember how a man came and brought a difference. (Chris Alexander) and now it's Vernon Macklin time. 

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Game Plan : Game 1 vs TNT

After an exciting series with the Elasto Painters, another rival team will try to beat the most electrifying team in the PBA. The Tropang Texters are set to play with Barangay Ginebra San Miguel this Friday, April 25 at exactly 6:45 PM at the big dome. The Kings had proven that they can win without the Spark playing on the hard court. But can they really battle against a Championship Team like TNT without the reigning MVP. Mark is still doubt to play on Game 1 but he himself said in an interview that the team can win even without him.

The new import of TNT made Vernon like out of the blue when they first met where the Kings where beaten badly and Macklin had a bad game. Here are some points we need to consider as game plan to defeat the team of Coach Norman Black:

Control the Paint

Ginerba's import was tested over Bruno Sundov, but Jordan is different from Sundov. They must protect the paint from rebounds. They can let Jordan shoot those outside shots but not those under the basket. Let different local players guard the TNT import for the first three quarters and let Vernon take charge at the fourth.

Limit the Shooters

TNT has many shooters and we need to sustain them. If they will shoot three point shots with ease, Ginebra will not able to fight back. The Kings has a very low three point shot percentage.

Strong Start

All the games that Ginebra won started with a strong start. So they must start strong so they can have early momentum.

Defense versus Defense

This must be the main game plan for the team to beat TNT. Our opponent is known to be a good defensive team. To beat them we must play good defense as well. This is how we beat ROS and this will also be effective against them. We have to limit them not over 80 points to win.

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Coach Jawo 2.0, Light the Spark Up

For a long time now many Ginebra Fans miss the presence of the legendary playing Coach Robert "Sonny" Jowarski on the venue of a PBA games every time their team is on the court. As we all know Big J is the father of the never say die attitude that Ginebra Lives on today. But right after he left the team for his political dreams it was a big nightmare for the Barangay.

For one decade of being not part of the team, Ginebra strangles starting with loosing key players through trade and players being forced to retire due to lack of playing time. Those players where actually the one who really knows what is the real meaning of the Never Say Die attitude. Many star players came to play in the Kings uniform, remember Jun Limpot, Vergel Meneses and Allan Caidic. All of them are franchise players of their respective team but they never understood what it is the real meaning of "Never say die".

Years later, the era for those superstars is over as the Mark Caguioa Era comes their way. Obviously, the Spark is a player of intensity and never gives up to a game. But does he has the spirit to regain the never say die attitude of the team. Do not get me wrong, Ginebra the whole decade is not worst even the Never Say Die attitude is fading. They even won a lot of Championships even Jawo is not with them. But still Ginebra is not Ginebra without that spirit.

This past few years is a disaster for the team, after winning the Fiesta Conference Championship with Coach Jong Uichico against Air 21 in the 2007-2008 season the team never had a great record at all. Injuries let the Fast and the Furious sit down on the bench. Put all the blame to Coach Siot, but he is not the problem of the Kings. The question is who/what is missing for the Kings?

Retirement of the Jersey of the Living Legend was done and there is like a spirit coming from  him is being transferred to Mark Caguioa when stood near to each other. Ginebra won that game even they straggled the whole first half and the never say die spirit was alive. But it was just for that game, the next games of the Barangay Ginebra was just the same games they have. No Spark, No Light, No Spirit.

Recently, major changes made to the roster, a huge change of coach from Siot to Al Francis, a monster trade that let as acquire LA Tenorio, a blockbuster trade for Kerby Raymundo and a shocking trade of Mac Baracael for the team. The team is getting stronger and stronger as more high hopes to win games. But still it is all the same way as before. We are being beaten, beaten badly by opponents. What make it worsts for this conference is that the best player for the team is injured. 

Mark Caguioa is the only player in Ginebra uniform with the spirit of Never Say Die attitude  and the rest ,they seems not to understand the spirit that Mark is wanted to input back to the team. But after having a record of 0-4 in the start of the conference the team came back huge and in the last two games of the team they all showed a REAL NEVER SAY DIE ATTITUDE. Who brought this spirit to the team? Jawo is not at the court, neither Noli Locsin, Vince Hizon, Marlou Aquino, Bal David, Jayvee Gayoso, Pido Jarencio, Wilmer Ong, Benny Cheng, Dodot Jowarski, Terry Saldaña, and EJ Feihl, so who? Is it the Spark? Well he have his part but it seems he did not make it alone.

The person who fought for the team, the person who motivate the team, the person who bring energy standing on the bench the whole game, the person who ate all the criticisms the fans threw to him and the man who never doubt that this team is made to succeed. It is Coach Al Francis Chua who brought back the never say die spirit of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel. Letting the players believe in their skills is the formula Jawo used to have the never say die spirit they started. They are not even as flashy as our players today but with their spirit they were loved by the fans. This is what the fans want; they never stop believing that Jawo will be back on the bench with the Barangay. He is not with the team now but we have Jawo 2.0 with Coach Al Francis Chua. Thank God the spirit is back for the team. Thanks to Coach Al that serves as the Gasoline for Mark Caguioa that serves as the Spark on light up the NEVER SAY DIE SPIRIT that was sleeping for a decade now.

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Best Player of the Conference : The Spark is out of the race

On the current Statistical Points Standings on 2013 Commissioner's Cup as of End of Eliminations, April 17, 2013 on the Battle for Best Player of the Conference the name of Mark Caguioa is out of the lists. PBA on their Official Website at www.pba.inquirer.net shows the Top 25 leading players for Best Player of the Conference. The top 5 on the list are 1st, LA Tenorio of Barangay Ginebra, 2nd is Calvin Abueva of Alaska Aces, Gary David of Globarport is 3rd, followed by Nino Canaleta and Paul Lee on the 4th and 5th spot. 

With Globalport, Air21 and Rain or Shine out of the conference it might be a battle between Tenorio and Abueva for the BPC award. If Barangay Ginebra push through up to the Finals given that it might be Alaska whom they will face in case they will be able to survive the semi-finals against Talk n Text and if the Aces surpass either the Bolts or the Mixers the battle will still be between The Beast and the Gineral. 

The Spark is leading the Best Player of the Conference the whole half of Eliminations but badly for him, he missed to play games up until the quarter-finals. The superstar from San Juan will be expected to come back Game 1 or 2 of their semi-finals against TNT but is that enough for the reigning MVP to top the race for BPC. There is no doubt if MC47 will be able to come back and play the same game as he play before he hit a knee injury and he will score more than 20 points per game. He will be assured of a spot for Best Player of the Conference. For the conference stat leaders for Points per Game still Mark Caguioa is at the top for all locals.

Nevertheless, having LA Tenorio at the top spot for the award the Ginebra Fans will take advantage of the fact that the Best Player of the Conference will be on their team.

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