With their backs pressed against the wall, the Magnolia Beverage Masters would try to equalize the basketball series with a win against the hungry Air21 Express basketball team.
With the way things are going around lately, it seems that the Magnolia Beverage Masters has no answer to the puzzle being showed by the overachieving Air21 Express. It's also very clear that there is a big question on the team's chemistry as shown by their turnover numbers on this series.
Will the Magnolia Beverage Masters force a knockout game Sunday or it will be say goodbye to its championship aspirations? That questions will be answered in tonight's battle.
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HUNGRY AIR21 GUNS FOR CLINCHER
Thomas aching to play in 1st Finals
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Thursday, July 31, 2008
A wonderful episode looms bright in the horizon for the Air21 basketball franchise after 13 frustrating conferences, four coaching changes and several surprising trades.
So as he entertained sportswriters for the post-gamme interview, Bo Perasol allowed his troops to seize the moment and celebrate at the confines of their locker room.
The Express have just defeated the Magnolia Beverage Masters, 92-82, in Game 5 of their semifinal basketball duel for a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven basketball series.
The result of Wednesday's basketball encounter, without doubt, means so much for Perasol, the low-keyed and unassuming basketball coach of Air21, the players and management for whom a trip to the Finals has been nothing but just a dream for the past six years.
After a roller coaster ride early in the eliminations, the Express slowly picked up their rhythm and suddenly Perasol, whose patience and modesty had endeared him to his players, has a chance to accomplish what his predecessors – Bonnie Garcia, Derrick Pumaren, Bong Ramos and Joe Lipa – had failed to achieve.
Unless something terrible happens to his lead characters, Perasol and the overachieving Express may find themselves playing in the Finals and contending for the PBA's season-ending basketball championship.
History awaits the six-year-old basketball franchise Friday night as the Express aim for the clinching fourth victory over the Magnolia Beverage Masters in Game 6 of their semifinal basketball series set for 7 p.m. at the Cuneta Astrodome.
A win will send Air21 to a best-of-seven title basketball duel opposite Barangay Ginebra starting Wednesday at the Araneta Colliseum.
Perasol is confident his charges would get the job done but for good measure he cautioned them to stay focused on the task at hand.
"If we have to win, we have to do it in a fashion that is convincing," Perasol said.
Resiliency, hardwork and unselfishness have become the foundations of the Express' success this conference.
The Express were also this good three years back. They made the semifinals of this same conference with Sean Daniels as basketball import. Although they showed some promise, the team eventually fell short and settled for a third place finish.
Steven Thomas, who is now the leader of this year's class, has never played in a championship basketball gamme much like the Express, reason why he's moving heaven and earth to get there.
"I've never been in a championship basketball series so this is very important to me," Thomas said. "We just have to take it one gamme at a time."
"Our chances are good because our locals are playing phenomenal. They're winning without me. I'm just doing the talking … communicating."
Still, Thomas cautioned his teammates to treat Magnolia Beverage Masters with respect, short of saying they can't afford to be complacent.
Obviously, the Magnolia Beverage Masters are hard-pressed to win Game 6 to force a deciding gamme. And there's a possibility they might have to do it without basketball hotshot Dondon Hontiveros.
Hontiveros, who played just 11 minutes in Game 5 after injuring his left ankle in the second quarter, remains a doubtful starter.
Without Hontiveros, Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen could only hope import Amal Mccaskill, Lordy Tugade, Danny Seigle, Danny Ildefonso and Olsen Racela would be able to withstand the booming cannons of Air21.
"I hope Dondon could play. I don't want our basketball achievement to be tainted," Perasol said. "It would be sweeter to win the basketball series if Dondon is there. But we'll take it any which way." (DBC)
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Magnolia Beverage Masters Eye Equalizer Against Hungry Air21 Express
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Ranidel De Ocampo, Gary David Wax Hot as Air21 Express Grabs 3-2 Lead
The Air21 Express made a show of what their offensive jauggernaut looks like when well-oiled and their willingness to win Game 5 as they inch a game closer to the coveted franchise first-ever finals appearance.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters, on the other hand, were clueless as to what hit them when the Express continuesly scores on all fronts leaving their defense clueless. Add to the injury is the fact that Mike Cortez was not able to orchestrate the team's play very well. They also logged numerous turnovers, which the Air21 Express willingly converts to turnover points.
Another big factor is the continuing emergence of Mr. Pure Energy Gary David, who seems to play a higher level of basketball game. He moved a lot and his defenders just cannot cope up with him. Yes, even known guard defender Dondon Hontiveros was not quick enough to react to his moves.
Another blow is that Dondon Hontiveros injured his ankle and may not be able to play on the succeeding battles. Let's just hope he recovers in time to help the team.
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JUST ONE MORE TO GO FOR AIR21 Express on verge of first-ever PBA Finals stint
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Just one more push, and Air21 could finally achieve a first-ever basketball Finals appearance in the Philippine Basketball Association.
The Express rebounded strong from a heartbreaker of a loss Sunday, outworking and outmaneuvering the Magnolia
Beverage Masters for a 92-82 victory and the pivotal 3-2 lead in their 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference best-of-
seven semifinal basketball showdown at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday.
Stalled the last time by a clutch shot from Amal McCaskill, the Express got back on track by putting up their most
aggressive basketball performance in the basketball series thus far, catching up the Magnolia Beverage Masters by surprise.
Taking the lead in the basketball series after five basketball gammes, the Express can close it out in Game 6 at the Cuneta Astrodome Friday or in a deciding Game 7 in the same venue Sunday.
"We really worked hard to build a big lead early. We can't win every time on a last-second basketball shot by Steven (Thomas) or in a last-second basketball defensive gem by Arwind (Santos)," said Air21 basketball coach Bo Perasol.
"But the basketball series is not yet over. We can't afford to relax if we're to finish the job and give the basketball franchise its first ever PBA Finals basketball stint," Perasol added.
"We need to continue playing Air21 basketball if we're to finish them off Friday. Magnolia Beverage Masters is a very good basketball team. It has talented basketball players," said Air21 import Steven Thomas.
Looking to arrange a fourth basketball title showdown with the Barangay Ginebra Kings, the Magnolia Beverage Masters can only salvage their bid with two straight wins against the Express who have gone 5-2 in their duels the entire basketball tourney.
"We can't count them out just yet. We have to take it one basketball gamme at a time," said Thomas, himself on the verge of a first basketball championship series in his basketball career. He's never experienced playing in the Finals back in the US.
Thomas logged minimal numbers compared to those churned out by McCaskill but the entire Air21 team put better
efforts than Magnolia Beverage Masters.
Too bad for the Magnolia Beverage Masters, they lost Dondon Hontiveros early in the gamme on a sprained ankle.
"Personally, I wish Dondon well. If ever we complete a win, I don't want our achievement tainted by the absence of a
key Magnolia Beverage Masters basketball player," said Perasol.
Gary David scored 20 points to pace the Express, who also drew double-digit basketball outputs from Ranidel de Ocampo, Homer Se, Arwind Santos and Thomas.
"If you notice, our local basketball players have been doing the job. They're winning without me. I'm just there communicating," said Thomas.
Perasol, however, stressed Thomas' mere presence makes his basketball teammates better.
"He's not scoring much but his presence makes his basketball teammates confident," said the soft-spoken Air21 mentor of his hardworking basketball import.
The Express seized the early initiative and took the half at 49-40, using aggressiveness to make up for a mediocre
basketball shooting.
Santos and De Ocampo fired 10 points apiece in the first half, pacing the Express who led by as many as 14 points at
36-22 despite a mere 38.8 percent shooting against the Magnolia Beverage Masters' 50 percent clip.
The Express cashed in on hustle basketball plays, outscoring the Magnolia Beverage Masters by 17, 26-9, on points off turnovers. (NC)
The scores:
Air21 92 -- David 20, De Ocampo 18, Se 15, Thomas 12, Santos 12, Arboleda 6, Cruz 5, Espinas 2, Sotto 2, Kramer 0, Canaleta 0, Billones 0.
Magnolia 82 -- McCaskill 23, Tugade 15, Pena 13, Hontiveros 7, Gonzales 6, Cortez 6, Racela 6, Ildefonso 3, Calaguio 2, Pingris 1, Seigle 0.
Quarterscores: 31-20, 49-40, 74-61, 92-82.
Danny Ildefonso, Lordy Tugade to Lead Magnolia Veterans in Pivotal Game 5
It's back to square one for the Magnolia Beverage Masters - Air21 Express basketball series. Magnolia's veterans will be lead again by Danny Ildefonso and Lordy Tugade who contributed heavily in Game 4's victory as well as their import Amal McCaskill.
The winner of Game 5 will be determined by the team who has more desire to win and who can play more as a cohesive team both in defense and offense. As I see in this series, the Magnolia Beverage Masters were having a difficulty defending the Air21 Express as they are very unpredictable, meaning every player on their roster who played in the hardcourt has the capability to score at anytime both outside and inside. That makes them very difficult to stop.
Danny Seigle is still a non-factor though he scored a dunk on the first play of the ballgame. He is not as aggressive as he used to be, which very well shows he is not yet 100%.
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Visit the new
San Miguel Beermen website. Click here.
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MAGNOLIA, AIR21 TAKE THE FLOOR IN PIVOTAL GAME 5
Coaches point to intensity and execution as key
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Tuesday, 29 July 2008
Certainly, Jong Uichico didn't want to play killjoy. In fact, he gammely responded to every inquiry by sportswriters following the Kings' four-gamme basketball sweep of the Red Bull Barakos in their basketball semifinal series last Sunday.
The last question though reminded him of bad memories from a distant past, so the Barangay Ginebra basketball coach politely declined to answer it.
"The last time I was asked to pick which basketball team I preferred to play I got burned. The basketball team I picked eventually eliminated us. Sorry, but I won't make any picks this time. I'm not good at basketball match-ups," offered Uichico, who also refused to identify the basketball tournament and the year it took place.
But he was kind enough to provide a hint. "It happened in the semifinals," he said, flashing a mischievous grin.
At any rate though, guessing which basketball team gets a crack at challenging Barangay Ginebra for the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference basketball championship is as tough as predicting that the Kings – proud owner of a 12-gamme winning basketball streak – would finish the basketball playoffs unscathed.
And while the Ginebra – Red Bull basketball showdown was done in four basketball gammes – leaving many league followers in disbelief – the Magnolia Beverage Masters – Air21 semifinal basketball series is looming to be a potential suspense-thriller that might require an Act 7 for an ending.
The script required alterations after the Magnolia Beverage Masters – thanks to the clutch hits by Lordy Tugade and import Amal McCaskill down the stretch – turned back the Express in Gamme 4 for a 104-102 decision to even the best-of-seven basketball series at two gammes apiece.
"Dikit lagi ang laban naming since the elimination round and I don't see it getting easier the rest of the basketball series,” said Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen moments after the crucial win.
Based on their previous battles, Tanquingcen believes the eventual challenger of the Kings for the basketball championship will be determined by passion and determination.
"The way I look at it, this basketball series now boils down to which team wants it more," said Tanquingcen, seeking a third basketball Finals appearance and second basketball championship in an import-laced basketball conference.
The intensity of the series nearly blew out of proportion in Game 4 when Air21 import Steven Thomas and Magnolia Beverage Masters center Dorian Pena traded taunts on their way to the dugout at halftime. Both were fined by PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios and warned of severe penalty if they lost their heads in the succeeding basketball gammes.
As much as both basketball teams are anticipating a deciding Game 7, it also remains a possibility that the result of Wednesday's Game 5 could be the turning point of the basketball series so the scheduled 7 o'clock duel Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum promises to be a lot more physical.
"I'm expecting the same intensity from both basketball teams. We just have to keep our focus. Whoever dictates the tempo of the basketball gamme would win it. Which means we can't play their (Express’) style of basketball," Tanquingcen said.
Bo Perasol, the low-keyed basketball coach of Air21 who is aiming to land the basketball team to its first-ever trip to the basketball Finals since joining the basketball league in 2002, is a bit more specific.
Apparently learning his lessons from Sunday's unexpected downfall, Perasol said sound decision-making and accuracy in basketball play execution would be very crucial in Game 5.
"If our last few basketball gammes would be a reflection of how the basketball series would be won, then we have to be very precise in our execution – defensively and offensively," Perasol said.
"It's down to a best-of-three basketball series so we can't afford to make costly mistakes," he added. (DBC)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Danny Ildefonso, Lordy Tugade Lead Magnolia's Local Crew, Amal McCaskill Sinks Winning Basket
Magnolia Beverage Masters' veterans proved once again that they can deliver in a crucial situation like this one. Danny Ildefonso provided the needed offensive firepower all throughout the ballgame with his steady post-up moves. Lordy Tugade, on the other hand, showed his clutch shooting in the endgame with the help of Olsen Racela's well-orchestrated play.
The game-winning shot of the evening belonged to Amal McCaskill, who had been playing sub-par in almost three quarters. He started to showed aggresiveness in the fourth period with the ballgame on the line. After getting an excellent pass from point guard Olsen Racela, Amal immediately posted up Steven Thomas and let fly a turn-around shot that went inside the net.
This marked the first time that the Magnolia Beverage Masters won against the Air21 Express when Steven Thomas is around this conference. Enjoy the exciting crucial moments of the basketball game from this recorded video that I got from Youtube courtesy of captainlionheart16.
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Visit the new
San Miguel Beermen website. Click here.
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MAGNOLIA PULLS EVEN ON McCASKILL’S HEROICS
Beverage Masters’ import finally win one over Thomas
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Amal McCaskill finally pulled one over Steven Thomas as Magnolia drew even with Air21 after four gammes of their 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference best-of-seven semifinal showdown at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday.
McCaskill pumped in a turnaround jumper off Thomas himself in the closing seconds as the Magnolia Beverage Masters eked out a 104-102 win that reduced their battle to a best-of-three affair.
Magnolia Beverage Masters beat Air21 for the first time in the tourney with Thomas in harness. For McCaskill, it was his first over Thomas in four matches.
Thomas had his big baskets at endgame but McCaskill had the final laugh after making the gamme-winning basket with time down to 1.4 seconds.
With no more timeout left, the Express could no longer map out a decent play, eventually yielding the gamme with Arwind Santos making an errant throw-in.
"It was anybody's ballgame and it so happened that we made the last big shot," said Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen.
"Dikit lagi ang laban namin from the elimination round and I don't see it getting easier the rest of this series," Tanquingcen added. "Malaking bagay sa morale namin na nakatabla kami."
Gary David sizzled with 32 points but fouled out on two successive offensive infractions entering the homestretch.
Santos and Thomas picked up the cudgels on the ouster of David but the Magnolia Beverage Masters stood their ground, getting clutch shots from Lordy Tugade and McCaskill.
Thomas scored all of Air21's last five points, including a short stab off McCaskill, tying the count at 102 with 14.4 seconds to go.
McCaskill, however, saved the day and the Magnolia Beverage Masters avoided falling into a 1-3 hole in the series.
The two teams figured in another tight contest marred by a near brawl between the two teams while heading to the lockers at the halftime break.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters came back strong from the halftime huddle, engaging the Express in seven deadlocks and three lead changes after trailing by eight at the turn.
David and Nino Canaleta failed to finish the gamme both on account of fouls while Wynne Arboleda sat out the last three minutes of the contest due to leg cramps.
Though worse in overall field-goal shooting, the Express took the half at 57-49 as they hit five triples to none for the Magnolia Beverage Masters.
Gary David went 2-of-2 from beyond the arc in the first half and himself fueled the Express' decisive charge from a 26-all standoff at the start of the second period.
Air21 outscored Magnolia Beverage Masters, 12-8, on second-chance points and, 9-4, on points off turnovers in the first 24 minutes of play. (NC)
The scores:
Magnolia 104 -- McCaskill 19, Tugade 19, Ildefonso 19, Pingris 10, Pena 10, Racela 7, Seigle 7, Hontiveros 6, Calaguio 3, Villanueva 2, Cortez 2.
Air21 102 -- David 32, Thomas 20, Santos 15, Arboleda 10, De Ocampo 8, Se 6, Kramer 4, Canaleta 3, Cruz 2, Billones 2, Intal 0, Sotto 0.
Quarterscores: 26-26, 49-57, 78-80, 104-102.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Barangay Ginebra Guns For Finals Seat, Magnolia Beverage Masters Try to Arrest Skid
The Magnolia Beverage Masters will try to arrest a 2-game skid against the rampaging Air21 Express to level the series at 2-2. Barangay Ginebra on the other hand, will try to close out the Red Bull Barakos to grab a finals seat.
As I am frequently mentioning here, the only way for the Magnolia Beverage Masters to win is to play excellent stingy defense in 48 minutes of action plus some consistency in offense in the fourth quarter where the Express surprisingly took charge in the last two outings.
Will Seigle play tonight? That's another doubltful question. But in his abscense, Lordy Tugade and the other veterans should take charge if they want to win this one while Danny Seigle is recuperating from injuries. Levelling the series at 2-2 will make it more exciting to watch with the series probably closing at six games or a knockout Game 7.
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Ginebra guns for finals seat
Source: Manila Bulletin Online
By Waylon Galvez | July 27, 2008
One win separates Barangay Ginebra from earning the first finals slot in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Cup and the Kings go for it today when they clash with Red Bull at 4:30 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Kings lead the Bulls, 3-0, in the best-of-seven semifinals and a win today will complete a sweep for the crowd favorites while setting them up for another best-of-seven playoffs with the winner of the other semifinals between Air21 and Magnolia Beverage Masters.
Air21, which leads 2-1, tries to move a step closer to a first-ever basketball championship appearance when the Express tackle the Magnolia Beverage Masters at 6:50 p.m.
Air21 mentor Bo Perasol has expressed optimism as he noted that his basketball players have matured in this basketball series and complemented well with import Steven Thomas.
"As a team, we really matured, we gained basketball experience in these type of basketball playoff gammes," Perasol said. "But we know that trying to take a 3-1 lead will be tough, but we’re ready against Magnolia Beverage Masters."
Gary David, who averaged 18.3 points in the basketball series, No.1 among the Air21 locals, will try to lead his basketball team anew to victory, like what he did in their gammes 2 and 3 wins.
Air21 will also rely on Thomas, local mainstays Arwind Santos, Homer Se, Ranidel de Ocampo, Nini Cañaleta and Wynne Aboleda.
As for Magnolia Beverage Masters, coach Siot Tangquingcen will lean on import Amal McCaskill, Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade, Danny Ildefonso, Mike Cortez, Olsen Racela and Marc Pingris.
Danny Seigle, who sat out the first two gammes and appeared only in the final seconds of gamme 3, is again a doubtful starter due to a strained (leg) muscle.
Focus, however, are on the mighty Kings, whose latest win was their 11th straight this conference, the best since Red Bull’s 10-gamme winning streak during the 2003 Reinforced Conference.
Ginebra, which entered the semifinals via a quarterfinal sweep of Philippine Cup champion Sta. Lucia Realty, won gamme 1, 108-82; gamme 2, 111-101; and gamme 3, 94-91.
A win by the Kings will propel the SMC-owned franchise to its 17th finals basketball appearance in the PBA.
In the rich history of the pro league, no basketball team was able to come back from a 0-3 hole, but according to Ginebra coach Jong Uichico, if there’s one basketball team that is capable of doing that, "it’s Red Bull."
"We need to play with the same intensity if we intend to close this out," Uichico said. "We don’t want to make this difficult for ourselves, we want to get this over as soon as possible."
Red Bull mentor Yeng Guiao, one of the strong contenders for the coaching post of the national basketball team the PBA will name after the conference, isn’t giving up.
"We had a really good chance of winning gamme Three, only to slide back and had mental mistakes," Guiao said. "We’re definitely not giving up. Our goal is to win this one, once we do that, we’ll start from there.
"We had a good practice (Saturday morning), and our thinking is that if they can win three straight basketball gammes, we can also win three straight basketball gammes," he added.
For the Bulls to win, they have to limit the scoring production of the Kings’ basketball guards, particularly Jayjay Helterbrand and Mark Caguioa, who are averaging 21 and 19.6 points, respectively, in the basketball series.
Also, Red Bull’s 7-foot Mexican import Adam Parada have to match the intensity of fellow 7-footer Chris Alexander, who averaged 16.3 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks in three basketball gammes.
Parada had his best gamme in the previous outing with 19 points, 17 boards and three blocked shots after struggling in the first two due to a hamstring injury.
"We’re not happy the way he’s playing in this basketball series, but we’re not giving up on him," Guiao added.
Aside from Parada, the Bulls will also lean on the locals like Cyrus Baguio, Mick Pennisi, Mike Hrabak, Rich Alvarez, Topex Robinson, Leo Najorda and Celino Cruz, ejected in the third quarter of gamme Three despite a cut on his tongue.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Arwind Santos, Gary David Conspire in Endgame as Air21 Express Move Ahead 2-1
It's another heartbreaking loss for the Magnolia Beverage Masters after taking control for the most part of the duel but failied to finish off the Air21 Express in the last quarter.
It was a low-scoring ballgame, which should favor the team but it seems like their guards were a little down during the crucial stretch of the ballgame. The breaks of the basketball game may also favored the Express or wasn't it because of their hussle? Dynamite Danny Seigle's offensive presence was greatly felt in the fourth quarter when the team failed to counter the Express offensive thrust.
Do we still stand a chance against the Express? Well, the series is won in four games. I do hope that the Magnolia Beverage Masters wakes up in time to realize its mistakes in the past two battles and show its defensive jaggernaut in derailing the overachieving Air21 Express.
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AIR21 IN COME-FROM-BEHIND GAME 3 WIN OVER MAGNOLIA David, Santos conspire in endgame as Express move ahead 2-1
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Saturday, 25 July 2008
ANTIPOLO CITY. – Last season’s multi-awarded Gary David provided the spark to lead the comeback while wingman Arwind Santos put the finishing touches as Air21 downed the Magnolia Beverage Masters, 82-78, in Gamme Three of the Smart-PBA Fiesta Cup semifinals Friday night at the Ynares Sports Center here.
Last season’s Most Improved Player and member of the Mythical Second and All-Defensive Teams, David scored 10 of his ballgame-high 17 points in a 10-2 run that featured back-to-back three-pointers, a jumper and two free throws that turned a 67-74 deficit to a 77-76 advantage with 2:03 remaining in the basketball gamme.
Then Santos, last season’s Rookie of the Year runner-up and member also of the All-Defensive Team, took over.
After Magnolia Beverage Masters import Amal McCaskill’s jumper hit the backboard that resulted in a 24-second shot clock violation, Santos nailed a big triple that gave them an 80-76 advantage with 1:19 left.
McCaskill made it a two-point basketball gamme with a pair of free throws off a foul by Air21 import Steven Thomas, 78-80.
However, following a missed jumper by Santos, Ranidel de Ocampo grabbed the loose ball to give his possession, paving the way for Santos being fouled by Danny Ildefonso which resulted in two free throws with 9.7 seconds remaining which pegged the final score.
“Now naiintindihan ko na what championship experience is all about,” Air21 mentor Bo Perasol said. “We don’t have that championship experience, but these kinds of playoff basketball gammes give us the experience in these situations.”
“We (coaching staff) already laid down the basketball gamme plan, alam na nila (players) kung ano ang gagawin. Importante na lang ‘yung kagustuhan and focus to win,” he added.
The Express now lead the Beverage Masters, 2-1, in semifinal series, a first time for the franchise to lead in a best-of-seven.
It was actually Air21’s fourth win in five basketball gammes this conference against the Magnolia Beverage Masters after sweeping the head-to-head meeting during the elimination round. They are also 4-0 with Steven Thomas in the line-up.
The Express also won Gamme Two, 103-102, with Thomas returning from the US after missing Gamme 1.
Forward Homer Se added 12, while Santos had 11 points and eight rebounds and playmaker Wynne Arboleda chipped in 11, seven boards and five assists.
Thomas, who missed the series opener last Sunday won by the Magnolia Beverage Masters (113-87), had nine points on 4-of-12 shooting with 11 rebounds, four assists and four blocked shots in 43 minutes.
“(Thomas’) presence gave his teammates the confidence. His intensity on both ends is really important,” Perasol.
Air21 tries to take a 3-1 lead in Gamme Four of the basketball showdown Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
“Next basketball gamme on Sunday is very important because a win will push us one victory away from moving to the Finals for the first time. I know they’ll come out strong, but we’ll be prepared,” Perasol said.
McCaskill led the Magnolia Beverage Masters with 16 points and 10 boards. (WG)
The scores:
Air21 82 – David 17, Se 12, Santos 11, Arboleda 11, Thomas 9, Canaleta 8, de Ocampo 7, Intal 5, Sotto 2, Cruz 0, Espinas 0, Billones 0.
Magnolia 78 – McCaskill 16, Tugade 15, Pena 12, Racela 9, Ildefonso 8, Pingris 7, Cortez 6, Hontiveros 5, Gonzales 0, Seigle 0.
Quarterscores: 17-24, 41-41, 57-62, 82-78.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Barangay Ginebra Guns for 3-0, Magnolia Beverage Masters to Get 2-1 Lead
It's back to square one for the battle between Magnolia Beverage Masters and the Air21 Express. This series is quite more exciting as compared to the series between Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull Barako with the Gin Kings dominating the series at this stage so far taking a 2-0 lead.
It will be another close ballgame but I expect the Magnolia Beverage Masters to make the necessary defensive adjustment to limit the Express offensive game. No predictions for today. Let's just enjoy the game and let the teams play.
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STREAKING GINEBRA GUNS FOR 3-0 BUBBLE
Air21, Magnolia to break 1-1 standoff
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Some seasoned observers have proclaimed that the semifinal basketball series between Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull is over.
And nobody, it seems, would want to disagree. The signs, after all, are convincing.
The Kings are playing consistent and solid basketball with Chris Alexander, Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand completely dominating their Red Bull counterpart.
They are also noticeably more motivated than the Barakos, who appear to have lost their basketball chemistry and desire to excel after taking a two-week break – their reward for gaining outright basketball passage into the Final Four.
Yet, for all their splendid efforts in Gammes 1 and 2, Ginebra coach Jong Uichico isn't ready to address Red Bull in the past tense, no matter how basketball sportswriters tried to press him to deliver a bold statement that would sound a tad short of counting out the Barakos, who now trail the Kings, 0-2.
"We had our battles. More or less I know how (coach) Yeng (Guiao) thinks. He is an excellent basketball motivator. Red Bull is a dangerous basketball team specially when their backs are against the wall," offered Uichico moments after their 111-104 basketball victory Wednesday – Ginebra's second win in as many basketball gammes in the best-of-seven semifinal basketball series of the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference.
No one will dare argue that the Kings, champions of this basketball tournament four years ago, are playing their best basketball of the conference – and possibly of the season.
After a 0-5 start, the Kings closed out the eliminations by racking up six wins in a row to stave off early exit and avoid the wildcard phase. As of latest count, Ginebra is now the proud owners of a 10-gamme winning streak – the longest by any basketball team this conference.
Still, Uichico maintained anything can happen and cautioned his troops to be ready for any eventuality.
To justify his apprehension, Uichico reminded the league's beat reporters that Ginebra had also been in the same situation as Red Bull is now.
Recollecting his memories, the soft-spoken mentor said Ginebra had also fallen in a 0-2 hole against Magnolia Beverage Masters, then carrying the colors of San Miguel Beer, during the 2006-07 Philippine Cup Finals. But the Kings, as they always, didn't quit. They rallied and managed to win the next four basketball gammes to claim the basketball championship.
"There is a possibility it could happen. But I hope it would not," he said.
Nevertheless, the unassuming Uichico said Friday night's Gamme 3 set at 7:20 p.m. at the Ynares Center in Antipolo could be Red Bull's last shot to get back in the basketball series.
No team in the 33-year history of the basketball league has come back from a 0-3 deficit to win a best-of-seven basketball series.
"Their last shot is on Friday. We know they'll be giving their all so we also have to play 100 percent. We also need to win Gamme 3 just as much to get closer to the Finals," said Uichico.
The Kings will be marching into Gamme 3 without substitute center Alex Crisano, who has been suspended for one basketball gamme and fined P20,000 by PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios for his flagrant foul penalty 2 stemming from a play in the third quarter that saw him slamming the ball on the face of Red Bull guard Jojo Duncil.
Barrios also fined Duncil P5,000 but this was due to the flagrant foul penalty 1 assessed him for tripping Paul Artadi while the Ginebra guard was on his way to the basket.
The possibility of Red Bull winning Gamme 3 isn't far-fetched. But the Barakos will have to play consistently as a unit and try to match Ginebra's intensity and energy – something they sorely lacked in Gammes 1 and 2.
After a disappointing seven-point performance in Gamme 1, Cyrus Baguio sparkled with 34 points on Wednesday and Adam Parada showed some signs of life as well, pouring 16 points and cornering 10 rebounds – a remarkable improvement from his six-point, eight-rebound output in the opener last Sunday.
Still, their efforts did little to inspire the Barakos, who seemed to have lost fire and enthusiasm that propelled them to an outright spot in the semifinals.
The other semifinal series between Air21 and Magnolia Beverage Masters is showing strong indication of developing into one hell of a suspense theater.
With the series now tied at one basketball gamme apiece, the odds are even going into Gamme 3, although the Express enjoy a psychological advantage in their scheduled 4:50 p.m. date after escaping with a 103-102 cliffhanger in Gamme 2.
With import Steven Thomas back in the lineup, the Express appeared emotionally charged in Gamme 2 and their confidence helped them survived a belated rally by the Magnolia Beverage Masters in the closing seconds to tie the series.
"As I have been saying all along it's not how many points he makes. It's his defense and his presence that brings great value to us. Thomas’ mere presence provides the us with inspiration and confidence," said Air21 coach Bo Perasol of his import, who missed Gamme 1. (DBC)
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Gary David Strikes as Air21 Express Gets Back in Groove
People could have burned me in the stakes with my bold prediction yesterday that the Magnolia Beverage Masters will take a 2-0 lead. Well, it seems that the team is also inflicted with this problem called "complacency" as it lost a close ballgame against the Air21 Express.
Complacency can be traced back to the team's slow start on defense according to some forum observants. The half-time score of 58-59 cannot deny that fact. And obviously we let the Air21 take control as we are playing their offense-oriented basketball brand of play. And this ballgame is no exception with the score reflecting the result - we lose the ballgame.
How to get back on the winning track? It's really very simple. The players should be reminded how we are able to win against the Coca-Cola Tigers. That is to play excellent stingy defense in 48 minutes of action. Danny Seigle is back from sick bay and already showed promise by producing 11 points in just 15 minutes of action. With that, I firmly believe that we can immediately bounce back from this defeat.
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Air21 back in groove as Thomas returns
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
July 23, 2008
True to his words, Steven Thomas made up for his absence the last time out.
Not that he made hulking numbers but Thomas' mere presence provided Air21 much boost as the Express got back at the Maggnolia Beverage Masters, 103-102, in Game Two of their 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum Wednesday night.
"It's not the numbers that Thomas puts in that make the difference. It's just his presence," said coach Bo Perasol as his troops avenged their 87-113 blowout by the Maggnolia Beverage Masters Sunday on the absence of Thomas.
"The numbers can be compensated by our locals but not the leadership and confidence Thomas' presence instantly brings in to the basketball team," Perasol added.
Thomas missed the series opener on his late return from a brief US journey to attend tryouts for the Korean basketball league.
On his return, no one was more pumped up than Gary David who fired 26 points, including all of the Express' last six markers. The one-time PBL MVP winner tossed in only nine points Sunday.
Ranidel de Ocampo, Wynne Arboleda and Homer Se, had significant contributions, combining for 51 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists.
Arwind Santos, a candidate in the basketball MVP race, struggled for only seven points but put up a big defensive gem in the closing seconds, foiling Mike Cortez's attempt to steal the basketball game.
The Maggnolia Beverage Masters gain an opportunity to salvage the basketball game on back-to-back errors by the Express, the last one by Wynne Arboleda setting up Cortez for one final attempt to win the basketball game.
Santos, however, stood his ground, challenging Cortez's layup.
The former FEU standout himself was after the looseball when the final buzzer sounded, ending Maggnolia Beverage Masters' bid for a 2-0 lead in the basketball series.
"It's now down to a best-of-five affair and we know we can win against Maggnolia Beverage Masters," said Perasol.
The Maggnolia Beverage Masters and the Express fight for the 2-1 lead in Game Three at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
Amal McCaskill was still a steady presence even with the return of Thomas, coming through with 25 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.
Cortez, Danny Ildefonso and Dondon Hontiveros had their contributions but the Maggnolia Beverage Masters yielded crucial grounds on the Express in the fourth quarter.
Danny Seigle returned from sickbay, chipping in 11 points and two rebounds in 15 minutes of basketball action. (NC
The Scores:
Air21 103 - David 26, De Ocampo 22, Arboleda 19, Thomas 15, Se 10, Santos 7, Cruz 2, Sotto 2, Kramer 0, Intal 0, Canaleta 0.
Maggnolia 102 - McCaskill 25, Cortez 19, Ildefonso 14, Hontiveros 13, Seigle 11, Pingris 8, Tugade 8, Racela 4, Pena 0.
Quarterscores: 29-28, 58-59, 81-74, 103-102
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Barangay Ginebra and Magnolia Beverage Masters Brace For Tougher Game 2
I totally agree that these are tougher and more exciting battle between the four teams. However, it is unfortunate that I will not be able to witness as I am out for the whole night. Too bad!
Whatever happens, we know both squads will rely on their playoffs experience to put away whatever surprises their foes have. My prediction: it will be 2-0 for Magnolia Beverage Masters. Burn me at the stakes if I miss. Just joking.
How about you? What's your take? Feel free to leave your comments.
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GINEBRA, MAGNOLIA BRACE FOR TOUGHER GAME 2
Barakos, Express raring to bounce back and equalize
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Coaches Jong Uichico of Barangay Ginebra and Siot Tanquingcen of Magnolia Beverage Masters are used to the basketball playoff atmosphere.
So it’s not surprising at all that they are bracing themselves for a tough grind Wednesday night, totally different from the one their troops faced in the opener of their respective semifinal basketball series.
With close to 11,000 spectators on hand at the Cuneta Astrodome, the Barangay Ginebra Kings dominated and silenced the Red Bull Barakos, 108-82, and Magnolia Beverage Masters pounced on undermanned Air21, 113-87, Sunday to gain a headstart in the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference best-of-seven basketabll series.
The Kings and the Magnolia Beverage Masters were clearly in their best in Gamme 1, looking every inch certified basketabll title contenders. But neither Uichico nor Tanquingcen was ready to proclaim that this basketabll series – which will send the winners into a basketabll championship showdown – could end sooner than expected.
"It's always a relief to win the first ballgame. But this doesn't mean anything," offered Uichico, noting it would be a big mistake to count the Barakos out this early into the basketabll series.
Not even the Kings' nine-game winning streak, it seems, is enough to convince the two-time Coach of the Year that this series would be a simple walk in the park for his troops.
"We're not too concerned about the streak. Our goal has always been play to win," Uichico said.
The fact that Red Bull managed to secure a seat in the Final Four without the so-called "basketabll superstars" is a testament to the resiliency of the Barakos – something that Uichico said should not be overlooked by the Kings.
"We know what Red Bull is capable of doing. We just have to match their intensity and keep our basketabll defensive mentality," said Uichico, who expects their 4:50 p.m. encounter at the Araneta Coliseum to be a little bit more physical and aggressive.
Modesty aside, even Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao believes his charges should have no trouble bouncing back from Sunday's lopsided loss. But he also said they have to find a way to slow down Ginebra import Chris Alexander, who completely dominated Adam Parada in Gamme 1.
"He's big and quicker than Adam. He's a very big problem for us if we can't find a way to slow him down,” Guiao said.
Alexander posted 16 points and 17 rebounds in Gamme 1 while holding Parada to just 6 points on 2-of-8 shooting.
Tanquingcen is also convinced that their 7:20 p.m. date with the Air21 Express won't be easy.
"Definitely, it will be a different story in Gamme 2," said Tanquincen.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters had an easier time controlling Gamme 1 mainly because Air21 import Steven Thomas wasn't around.
"He's back. So we're back in business," said Bo Perasol, the low-keyed Express basketabll coach who was pleased to see his reliable reinforcement back in the basketabll lineup.
Thomas, who made himself available for Korean Basketball League draft, arrived early Monday morning from the U.S. and headed straight to the Xavier basketabll gym in San Juan to join the team in basketabll practice.
Without Thomas in Gamme 1, the Express gave up 25 markers on second chance points, 16 more than their average in the eliminations.
"We really had a tough time without him. But it will be an entirely different story on Wednesday," Perasol said. (DBC)
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Amal McCaskill Dominates in the Paint As Magnolia Beverage Masters Subdues Air21 Express
But make no mistake about it, the Air21 Express managed to lead in the middle of the second quarter before the Magnolia Beverage Masters tighten up on defense on the third quarter, which saw their lead baloon up to 18 points.
I must say the team played lousy defense in the first half by letting the Air21 Express dictate the tempo of the basketball gamme. Playing Air21's offense-oriented tempo would put the team in danger. Complacency also took stage but coach Siot Tanquincen was quick enough to address it. Gamme 2 will be a different story with Steven Thomas back in the Express lineup.
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MAGNOLIA BEVERAGE MASTERS DRAW FIRST BLOOD AGAINST IMPORT-LESS AIR21: Without Thomas, McCaskill frolicks inside paint en route to personal conference-best 34
Source: PBA.ph
July 20, 2008
Magnolia Beverage Masters knew it would be facing an import-less Air21 team and the knowledge seemed to have done more harm than good.
At least according to Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen, who was more dissatisfied than pleased following his team's 113-87 victory at the start of the Smart PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals Sunday at the Cuneta Astrodome.
“Magaling talaga ang Air21, pero parang masyadong naging complacent ang mga players ko. It seems we forgot what got us here, which is defense, so it was really a bad start from that aspect,” said Tanquingcen.
The win was Magnolia Beverage Masters' first over Air21 this season, coming as it did in the most opportune of times, which is the opener of their best-of-seven basketball series.
Amal McCaskill waxed the hottest among the Magnolia Beverage Masters players, coming up with a PBA career-high 34 points that went with 12 rebounds while Lordy Tugade's 22 points led four locals who had at least 10 points each and stepped up in the continued absence of Danny Seigle.
But Air21 was without Steven Thomas, who first attended tryouts for the Korean basketball league in the US and then stayed longer there after he attended the Cleveland Cavaliers basketball training camp.
Still, the Express managed to hold their foes through 10 lead changes and seven deadlocks, leaving Tanquingcen with more creases on his forehead than when he came into the gamme.
“The first half was played poorly,” he stressed, referring to the fact his team even trailed 39-44 at one point.
Thomas, who averaged 23.4 points, 16.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per basketball gamme and led the Lina franchise to its first-ever outright semis berth and first No. 1 ranking in the playoffs, is set to arrive Monday and will play in Gamme 2 on Wednesday.
The thought now gnaws on Tanquingcen.
“They're gonna get a confidence boost. Iba talaga pag me import ka,” he said. “We've got to make sure coming in that we do things right. We can't win if we conduct ourselves the way we did kanina.”
Expectedly, Express coach Bo Perasol was more satisfied with his boys' showing.
“We're not going to be hard on ourselves,” he said, already looking forward to Wednesday. “They will have to contend with us as a complete unit next time at ibang usapan na iyon.”
Ironically, McCaskill also seemingly drew the best from Homer Se, who surprisingly paced Air21 with a career-high 31 points to go with seven rebounds. Egay Billones' 13 points and Arwind Santos' 12 were the only other double figures for Air21, who barely got beaten off the boards, 46-53.
Once the Magnolia Beverage Masters got their act together, however, it was simply a matter of time before the basketball gamme's true colors came out and it did mostly in the fourth period.
Already going to the payoff quarter with a 77-59 spread, Magnolia Beverage Masters put the outcome beyond doubt by erecting a 110-84 spread.
The second half domination was paved by McCaskill right in the third period, where he outscored the entire Air21 crew by himself by scattering 14, one more than the Express’ output.
As a result, the Magnolia Beverage Masters managed to bloat a 50-46 halftime lead to as much as 71-52, on a layup by Tugade, 4:09 to go in the quarter.
The Express helped along their loss by going 2-of-12 from the field in the first 7:08 of the quarter.
Se, whose previous high was only 22 recorded in a 123-106 loss to Sta. Lucia in the Philippine Cup elims last January 13, was the lone real bright spot for Air21, but the 6-foot-5 center suffered cramps on his left leg after successively missing an undergoal stab and a followup, with 7:19 to go.
He returned later on and even had 10 points in the fourth period but the difference was too much for even him and his career gamme. (NCo)
The scores:
Magnolia 113 – McCaskill 34, Tugade 22, Hontiveros 11, Racela 10, Pena 10, Pingris 6, Ildefonso 6, Bono 4, Gonzales 3, Calaguio 3, Eman 2, Cortez 0, Villanueva 0.
Air21 87 – Se 31, Billones 13, Santos 12, David 9, de Ocampo 8, Canaleta 7, Arboleda 5, Kramer 2, Cruz 0, Intal 0, Espinas 0, Sotto 0.
Quarterscores: 31-26, 50-46, 77-59, 113-87.
Magnolia Beverage Masters and Barangay Ginebra Faces Separate Rivals To Start Semis
It's now the start of the semifinals that will be fought between sister teams Magnolia Beverage Masters and Barangay Ginebra Against Air21 Express and Red Bull Barako. The two teams being #3 and #4 respectively after the quarterfinals suddenly became the favorites to win the first battle as their rivals encountered some sort of misfortunes.
Air21 Express will be playing without its prolific import in Steven Thomas. Thomas begged to attend a bootcamp in US but will only be arriving tomorrow. Red Bull on the other hand, losses Carlo Sharma due to a freak accident at home.
The first encounter is always vital for a team who wants to get a quick edge in a best-of-seven series. Without Thomas, I expect the Magnolia Beverage Masters to have a feast inside the shaded lane in terms of inside points and rebounding category. However, Air21 Express should not be taken lightly as it is a capable of staging an upset if you don't respect them.
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Quest for Fiesta finals berths on
Source: Manila Bulletin Online
By Waylon Galvez
July 20, 2008
Will the long layoff be a problem for outright semifinalists Air21 and Red Bull? Can Magnolia Beverage Masters and Barangay Ginebra sustain the momentum from their respective quarterfinal wins?
How will the Express – with an all-Filipino lineup – fare against the Magnolia Beverage Masters? Who’s better between two 7-footers, the Kings’ Chris Alexander or the Bulls’ Adam Parada?
Answers to these questions will be known in part today as the best-of-seven semifinals showdowns pitting Air21 against Magnolia Beverage Masters and Red Bull versus Ginebra in the Smart-PBA Fiesta Cup unwrap at the Astrodome in Pasay City.
The Express and the Magnolia Beverage Masters clash at 4:30 p.m., while the Bulls and the Kings collide at 6:50.
Air21 (12-6) and Red Bull (11-7) finished the elimination round with the best two records to earn automatic semifinals seats, but are coming off long layoffs -- the Express almost three weeks and the Bulls two weeks.
This is why "rustiness" is an issue for both teams although coaches Bo Perasol of Air21 and Yeng Guiao of Red Bull expressed confidence that their respective teams are ready to play.
"It can go either way," Perasol, whose team earned a first automatic Final Four slot since joining the PBA in 2002, said. "We are well rested pero di naman kami nagpabaya sa conditioning namin."
"We’ll see (in Gamme 1) if rustiness will have an effect on us," Guiao said.
Magnolia Beverage Masters and Barangay Ginebra, on the other hand, clinched their berths after coming out victorious in their respective quarterfinals series, with the former beating Coca-Cola in three basketball games and the latter sweeping Philippine Cup champion Sta. Lucia Realty in their separate best-of-three playoffs.
One thing going for both Air21 and Red Bull is that they beat their semis rivals twice in the eliminations.
The Express edged the Magnolia Beverage Masters in their first meeting (96-90).
At that time, Magnolia Beverage Masters was with import Jameel Watkins, and although it changed its import in NBA veteran Amal McCaskill, Air21 repeated last June 25 (90-88) on Steven Thomas’ basketball game-winning jumper.
However, Air21 will play minus Thomas, who will return only tomorrow after attending a three-day training camp in La Vegas intended for imports wishing to play as reinforcement in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) this October.
"Offensively and defensively we need to step up," Perasol said. "We’re ready mentally and physically even without Thomas. The locals committed and accepted the challenge to win (Gamme 1)."
It should have been Thomas, who averaged 23.4 points and 16.6 rebounds in the elimination round, defending McCaskill but now Perasol will rotate bigmen Homer Se, Enrvin Sotto and Doug Kamer to defend the 7-foot import.
Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen said that Air21’s youthful lineup is also a concern, with its running basketball game anchored by Arwind Santos and Nino Cañaleta.
"They have fresh legs and they can run, so we have to fins ways to limit their scoring," Tanquingcen said, adding that Danny Seigle is day-to-day after he did not play in the quarters due to strained leg muscle.
Aside from McCaskill’s inside basketball game, the Magnolia Beverage Masters will also rely on the perimeter shooting of Dondon Hontiveros, Lordy Tugade and Mike Cortez.
The Bulls also downed he Kings twice in the elimination last March 30 (89-83) and June 1 (86-82).
That was the last time Ginebra dropped a basketball game as it won its last eight, six in the elimination and two in the quarters opposite SLR.
"They’re really playing well right now," Guiao said. "We have to match their intensity on both ends. Playing solid defense is also important as we try to limit their import and locals."
The Kings’ Alexander (20.5 points, league best 22.5 rebounds and 3.0 shot blocks) and the Bulls’ Mexican reinforcement Parada (21.7 points and 15.6 rebounds) will be the focal point of their teams’ defense and offense.
Aside from the imports, also expected to contribute are the locals.
While Ginebra will lean on Mark Caguioa, Jayjay Helterbrand Eric Menk, Rafi Reavis, Sunday Salvacion and Paul Artadi, Red Bull will rely on Cyrus Baguio, Mic Pennisi, Mike Hrabak, Celino Cruz and Rich Alvarez.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Amal McCaskill Leads Magnolia Into Semifinals
The Coca-Cola Tigers struggled all night long under intense defensive pressure capped with their horrible shooting that sealed their doom in the season-ending Fiesta Conference.
Next in line are the offense-minded Air21 Express whom we will engage starting this Sunday, possibly without their prolific import Steven Thomas. I like our chances for this basketball series and if our vaunted defense clicks once again, I won't be surprised if we trip back to the Finals and possibly win the championship against an equally strong foe from the other bracket contested by Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull Barakos.
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MAGNOLIA BEVERAGE MASTERS BARGES INTO FINAL 4
Magnolia Beverage Masters take on Air21 in best-of-7 affair
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Friday, 18 July 2008
ANTIPOLO -- The Coca-Cola Tigers put up tremendous basketball intensity and energy but seemed to forget how to shoot, enabling the Magnolia Beverage Masters to book the last slot in the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference Final Four.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters beat out the Tigers, 78-60, in their knockout tussle last night at the Ynares Center here, gaining the right to challenge the Air21 Express in a best-of-seven semifinals basketball showdown.
The Final Four begins Sunday at the Astrodome in Pasay with Barangay Ginebra and Red Bull pitted in the other semis basketball match-up.
"We’re tight offensively but our defense held on," said coach Siot Tanquingcen as they overcame the Tigers for a second straight Fiesta Conference semifinals and sixth semis in the last eight PBA basketball tourneys.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters did struggle at the start but slowly picked up their rhythm, winning the battle without yielding the lead at anytime in the basketball contest.
It helped that the Tigers practically threw bricks in the basketball contest.
Coca-Cola shot a league all-time low of 20 percent in the entire contest and franchise-lows of 9.5 percent in the first quarter and 17.5 percent in the first half.
"I think it’s a result of a little of our basketball defense and their poor shooting. We had a hand in their every shot," said Tanquingcen.
Amal McCaskill, Lordy Tugade and Dondon Hontiveros played well on both ends of the basketball court, leading the team to the semis against the Express.
McCaskill said he’s well familiar with Steven Thomas’ basketball gamme, expressing confidence Magnolia Beverage Masters will emerge victorious.
Tanquingcen thought it’s difficult to play Air21, believing their only advantage against the Express is their being the more experienced basketball team.
Chances are Air21 will play minus Thomas at the start of the semis Sunday as he’s been invited to attend the Cleveland Cavaliers’ basketball training camp. His original plan was to return Saturday after attending just the basketball tryouts for the Korean basketball league in Las Vegas.
"Minus Steven, it would be very difficult but not impossible to make an upset. It would depend on how my players are going to take it mentally," said Air21 basketball coach Bo Perasol.
Magnolia Beverage Masters and Coca-Cola figured in a tough defensive basketball battle in the first half ending in the Magnolia Beverage Masters’ favor at 29-25.
The Tigers trailed by as many as nine points but scored five charities in the last 20 seconds to narrow the gap to four going into the final half.
Largely behind McCaskill’s efforts, the Magnolia Beverage Masters pulled away in the final half en route to sending the Tigers to the basketball season exit.
Coca-Cola joined in the sideline deposed Fiesta Conference champion Alaska, All-Filipino ruler Sta. Lucia, Talk n Text, Purefoods and Welcoat. (NC)
The scores:
Magnolia 78 – McCaskill 18, Tugade 14, Hontiveros 14, Cortez 9, Pingris 6, Ildefonso 6, Racela 5, Pena 3, Bono 2, Gonzales 1, Villanueva 0, Tolomia 0.
Coca-Cola 60 – Buenafe 22, Dixon 16, Taulava 9, Belasco 4, Macapagal 3, Dean 2, Cabagnot 2, Telan 2, Catli 0, Dimaunahan 0.
Quarterscores: 15-12, 29-25, 52-41, 78-60
Friday, July 18, 2008
Magnolia Beverage Masters Battles Coke on Knockout Friday
With the season on the line, Magnolia should not forget how they were able to win against the opposition in the past, that is playing excellent defense. I do hope Danny Seigle is healthy enough to contribute to the team's offense. Lordy Tugade was a marked man last Wednesday and was not able to contribute much in scoring.
Will Magnolia Beverage Masters advance to the semis is a question that will be answered tonight. Glue to your TV screen as this might be our last battle this season or the start of a good beginning.
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SEMIS OR BUST FOR COCA-COLA, MAGNOLIA
Winner to take on Air21 in semis starting Sunday
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Thursday, 17 July 2008
After staving off elimination and forcing sudden death playoff, coach Binky Favis believes his Coca-Cola Tigers have a little more juice left in their system to complete a sensational comeback.
With their season on the brink, the Tigers gave their all Wednesday and pulled the rug from under the Magnolia Beverage Masters in a nerve-wracking shootout to pull off a scintillating 91-90 decision in the Gamme Two of their quarterfinal series.
Coke's thrilling victory essayed with the help of rookie Ronjay Buenafe's 15-foot jumper with 7.2 seconds remaining provided some rays of hope to an already troubled semifinal bid.
"All we asked for is a new lease on life. With the basketball gamme now tied and just one gamme left to decide it all, I think we have a good shot," said Favis.
The Coca-Cola mentor said he has strong reason to believe that they are going to clinch the deciding match.
He said his troops have displayed their resiliency time and again. They also seem to generate so much energy and intensity whenever death is staring at them in the face.
"Not to take anything away from Magnolia Beverage Masters but I like our chances in Gamme 3. I am very confident my players will rise to the occasion. They have this tendency to always play their best whenever our backs are against the wall," Favis said.
On Wednesday day, Favis played his veterans namely Alex Cabagnot, Asi Taulava, Mark Macapagal and Nic Belasco on extended minutes.
He is expected to dwell on the same pattern knowing too well that experience will be vital in Gamme 3.
The Coca-Cola-Magnolia Beverage Masters showdown is set at 7 p.m. Friday at the Ynares Center.
The winner will face eliminations topnotcher Air21 in a best-of-seven series. The other series will be contested by Red Bull and Barangay Ginebra. (DBC)
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Ronjay Buenafe Rifles in Marginal Basket to Keep Tigers’ Hopes Alive
Coca-Cola Tigers rookie Ronjay Buenafe saved their basketball team from elimination as has he sanked a clutch basket in the dying seconds. The Magnolia Beverage Masters got a chance to win it but Dondon Hontiveros' desperation three point shot did not hit the mark.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters were not able to finish off the Coca-Cola Tigers on Wednesday but I do hope they get the job done on Friday. If not, it's vacation time once again for us. I'm sure coach Siot Tanquincen will make the necessary adjustments on knockout Friday.
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COCA-COLA TRIPS MAGNOLIA, FORCES RUBBER MATCH
Buenafe rifles in marginal basket to keep Tigers’ hopes alive
Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
ANTIPOLO -- Ronjay Buenafe banged in what’s easily the biggest basket of his basketball pro career thus far, keeping the Coca-Cola Tigers in the hunt for the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference basketball championship.
Buenafe drained the winning basket with 7.2 seconds left as Coca-Cola forced a sudden death with Magnolia Beverage Masters in their best-of-three quarterfinal basketball showdown with a 91-90 thriller of a win Wednesday night at the Ynares Center here.
The Magnolia Beverage Masters actually had a chance to finish off the Tigers but Dondon Hontiveros missed a three-point attempt at the buzzer.
"I didn’t say much before the battle, forgetting the Xs and Os. I just told the boys to just do their best, and they rose to the challenge," said Coca-Cola basketball coach Binky Favis.
"Same thing on Friday. For as long as we’re alive, we’ll be there fighting. We’ll maximize the one day rest to be ready for another basketball tough grind," Favis added.
The two teams figured in a fierce fourth-quarter basketball battle that wasn’t decided till the final buzzer.
The Tigers squandered double-digit spreads in the third quarter and flirted with disaster as they fell behind at 89-90 on a five-point binge by Amal McCaskill and Wesley Gonzales.
But the Magnolia Beverage Masters won’t complete the job with Buenafe saving the day for the Tigers on a tough jumper after faking off two defenders.
Hontiveros had a decent attempt in their final offensive thrust but his shot went a little strong, sending the Coca-Cola bench and the Tigers’ supporters to a frenzied celebration.
The Tigers lived to fight another day despite another mediocre showing from new basketball import Brandon Dean.
"I know Brandon has something to show, but he’s in a tough situation playing a knockout basketball battle right away," said Favis of Dean, who was good for only six points, four assists and two rebounds.
For the second straight basketball gamme, McCaskill showed up Jason Dixon only to see his efforts go to naught.
McCaskill churned out another double-double basketball gamme highlighted by a crucial sky hook, then a steal setting up Gonzales for the trey that made it 90-89 for the Magnolia Beverage Masters.
Three-pointers came aplenty in the payoff period with Alex Cabagnot firing away three, the last giving the Tigers an 89-85 cushion with 1:07 left.
Gonzales delivered big plays coming off the bench in the fourth quarter, counting a short stab and a charity in an 11-4 opening run in the fourth quarter that pushed Magnolia Beverage Masters ahead at 79-74. (NC)
The scores:
Coca-Cola 91 – Cabagnot 17, Dixon 16, Taulava 12, Belasco 11, Buenafe 9, Macapagal 9, Dimaunahan 7, Dean 6, Telan 4, Catli 0.
Magnolia 90 – McCaskill 19, Hontiveros 18, Ildefonso 13, Tugade 10, Cortez 9, Gonzales 6, Racela 5, Pena 5, Villanueva 3, Pingris 2.
Quarterscores: 23-22, 46-41, 70-68, 91-90.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Barangay Ginebra and Magnolia Beverage Masters Seek Semis Seats
It's time to go for the jugular this evening. Magnolia Beverage Masters should treat this gamme as do-or-die if battle it wants to advance to the semifinals. No more Gamme 3 period.
The team who dominates on defense will win this one. Another factor if the team wants to win is to minimize the turnover. It's been the team's achilles heel all conference long. Lessen this one to avoid giving easy points after a turnover to the opposition.
To all Magnolia Beverage Masters fans out there, please do support the team on this crucial part of the conference. As I am always saying, we have a good chance of getting another championship. Do you share my opinion? Just leave a comment and thank you for dropping by.
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Source: Philippine Star
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Kings, Masters seek semis seats
The Sta. Lucia Realtors, who survived two knockout gammes, are confident of rising up to the challenge again, this time against the Barangay Ginebra Kings for a crack at a possible season sweep.
The All-Filipino champions play a third do-or-die gamme in eight days when they tangle with the Kings tonight at the Ynares Center, looking to force a rubber match in their best-of-three Smart PBA Fiesta Conference quarterfinals showdown.
The Realtors overcame the dethroned Alaska Milk Aces and the Talk n Text Phone Pals in two previous knockout tussles.
Joseph Yeo came through with career-high numbers on both gammes and became the recipient of the Smart-Accel Player of the Week honors for the period July 9-13.
But Ginebra sent Sta. Lucia on the brink of elimination again with a come-from-behind 92-90 win at the start of their quarterfinal round duel Sunday at the Astrodome.
Magnolia Beverage Masters also moved within a win of a semis stint as the Beverage Masters whipped the Coca-Cola Tigers, 108-96, in the opener of their own quarterfinal showdown.
Coaches Jong Uichico of Ginebra and Siot Tanquingcen of Magnolia Beverage Masters said they would need to work doubly hard to finish off their respective rivals today.
“Sta. Lucia is a great defensive team that we need to match their intensity. They dominated Gamme One and we just turned things around in the fourth quarter. We have to come out and do a better job if we want the series over Wednesday,” said Uichico.
“In a best-of-three series, winning Gamme One is a big advantage. But it will mean nothing if you’re not able to finish the job. For sure, it won’t be easy,” said Tanquingcen.
Sta. Lucia has proved it’s a team that thrives under pressure, having survived a total of four do-or-die gammes already in the season, counting Gamme Seven in the semifinals and finals of the recent Philippine Cup.
“No one can question the character of the boys. They show the stuff they’re made of when their backs are against the wall,” said Sta. Lucia top official Buddy Encarnado.
Ginebra rode high on clutch plays by Junthy Valenzuela to seize control in the fourth quarter and eventually steal the gamme from Sta. Lucia Sunday. Curiously, Valenzuela struggled early on, going scoreless in the first three quarters.
“He’s a veteran and he’s been there before. We know we can count on him to do things even as he struggles in the early part of a gamme,” said Uichico in lauding Valenzuela after the contest.
Valenzuela and Mark Caguioa have to play extended minutes with Ronald Tubid sustaining a dislocated ankle in the team’s last gamme in the elimination round.
Monday, July 14, 2008
LORDY TUGADE-LED MAGNOLIA BEVERAGE MASTERS PUTS COKE ON THE BRINK
It's another good basketball gamme of Magnolia Beverage Masters that I missed watching. The good thing is that the team won. I don't have much comments on this so I will just give some insights for the remaining battle(s) of the series.
It's playoffs time, probably the best time that you can see the experience of the team show up against an unexperience team like the Coca-Cola Tigers. The battle will always be defense against defense as what these two teams would normally engage on.
I expect Magnolia to go for the clincher this Wednesday as letting the Tigers recover will be a big mistake. The Tigers will make the necessary adjustments and the two imports will show more aggresiveness. Danny Seigle's injury is not that serious so I expect him to contribute to the team on Wednesday.
The team is on the right track towards getting another championship. Dispatching Coke would setup a semis duel with Air21 Express, which I think we have a good fighting chance.
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Source: Philippine Basketball Association
Sunday, 13 July 2008
TUGADE-LED MAGNOLIA PUTS COKE ON THE BRINK
'Dynamite'-less Beverage Masters a win away from 2nd straight Fiesta Final 4 stint
Magnolia Beverage Masters moved a win away from clinching a semifinal berth in the 2008 Smart PBA Fiesta Conference as it downed Coca-Cola, 108-96, in Gamme 1 of their best-of-three quarterfinal series Sunday night at the Astrodome in Pasay City.
Wingman Lordy Tugade scored 20 points and grabbed a career-best 15 rebounds to lead the Magnolia Beverage Masters against the Tigers, who got sub-par performances from their two imports.
Magnolia Beverage Masters, which lost to eventual champion Alaska in the Final Four of last season’s Fiesta Conference, can arrange a showdown against Air21 in the best-of-seven semifinals with another win in Gamme 2 on Wednesday in Antipolo City.
“In a short series it’s good. But it does not mean anything because we need one more win. We feel good tonight but we have to go back to work tomorrow (in practice),” Magnolia Beverage Masters coach Siot Tanquingcen said.
Protecting a 76-72 lead after three quarters, Magnolia Beverage Masters used a 17-6 run capped by a three-pointer by Tugade for a 93-78 advantage with 6:05 to play. Mike Cortez’ three put the Magnolia Beverage Masters ahead for good, 99-82, 4:37 left.
Tugade started the gamme at the wing spot with Danny Seigle sitting out the gamme because of a mild strain on his quadriceps. He shot 6-of-11 from the field, including 2-of-5 from the three-point area, and made 6-of-10 free throws.
Import Amal McCaskill also had a double-double performance of 20 points and 11 boards. The 7-foot McCaskill also helped in limiting Coke’s import Jason Dixon, who was held to a personal conference-low six points with seven boards. The 6-foot-10 Dixon averaged 22.6 points and 11.7 rebounds in the elimination.
“We tried our best to contain him (Dixon). It’s hard to stop him. But somehow, we played good defense on him and at the same time we caught him on a bad night,” Tanquingcen said.
The Tigers mew second reinforcement Brandon Dean, their fourth after Calvin Cage, Gee Gervin and Donald Copeland, also struggled with eight points on 3-of-11 shooting.
But Tanquingcen expects the one-time Arkansas stalwart to play better in Gamme 2. “May advantage and disadvantage bringing in a new import. Nangangapa pa sa system. Pero at the same time kasi coming in to this gamme, hindi rin kilala. I think may ibibigay pa because of his quickness and toughness,” he said.
Cortez came off the bench to contribute 18 points for Magnolia Beverage Masters, while Dondon Hontiveros and Danny Ildefonso added 13 points apiece. Asi Taulava led Coke with 20 points and 12 boards, while Nic Belasco added 17. (WG)
The scores:
Magnolia 108 – McCaskill 20, Tugade 20, Cortez 18, Hontiveros 13, Ildefonso 13, Pingris 8, Bono 7, Pena 6, Racela 3, Villanueva 0, Gonzales 0.
Coca-Cola 96 – Taulava 20, Belasco 17, Buenafe 15, Cabagnot 12, Macapagal 9, Catli 9, Dean 8, Dixon 6, Dimaunahan 0, Misolas 0.
Quarterscores: 30-18; 51-41; 76-72; 108-96
