Beermen cruise past Air 21

San Miguel's veteran line-up proved no match against Air21's rookie-laden roster.

With Dondon Hontiveros and Arwind Santos combining for 43 points, the Beermen cruised past Rabeh Al-Hussaini and the Express, 100-86, for a rousing debut in the PBA Philippine Cup Friday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

Hontiveros exploded for 24 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the floor, while Santos added 19 in a fiery display of firepower for a San Miguel team that dominated the game from start to finish.

"We just used our experience against them," said Hontiveros, 32. "Alam namin may mga rookie players sila, so we just took advantage of our strength against them which is experience."

Al-Hussaini, the former RP-Smart Gilas team member selected No. 2 overall in the Rookie Draft, accounted for 16 points in his debut game in Asia's first ever play-for-pay league, but not good enough to give Air21 the win.

Fellow rookie Rey Guevarra, the third overall pick behind Al-Hussaini, finished with only a point, while the top rookie pick, Nonoy Baclao, didn't play as he showed up in street clothes after hyper-extending his knee in a tune-up game against Alaska.

Ateneo Blue Eagles Captures Three Peat

Ateneo seizes its third consecutive UAAP Championship title.

On the spotlight before reporters at the Araneta Coliseum press room, Ryan Buenafe looked at his shirt that said "Ateneo Three-Peat Champions."

"Para akong nananaginip," Buenafe told teammate Erik Salamat.

"Ako rin," the latter couldn't agree more.

The burly Buenafe struck hard when it mattered most to push Ateneo de Manila University to a 65 - 62 nipping of top seed Far Eastern University and the Blue Eagles' third straight UAAP men's basketball crown Thursday afternoon before 17, 215 fans at the Big Dome.

The six-foot-two junior, who was awarded the UAAP Season 73 Finals MVP, capped his sterling performance with a three-pointer with 22.1 seconds remaining that gave Ateneo its biggest lead, 61 - 56, to finally put away the Tamaraws, who led much of the game before losing steam in the homestretch.

"This is the hardest championship we've won in the last three years," an ecstatic Coach Norman Black said.

True enough, the Eagles did it the harder way this time, climbing from an 11-point deficit early in the first half to become only the fourth team in league history to accomplish a three-peat.

Other UAAP member schools that accomplished the rare feat include the University of the East Warriors (under coach Baby Dalupan), the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigers (under coach Aric del Rosario), the champions' archrival De La Salle University Green Archers (under coach Franz Pumaren), and the Far Eastern University Tamaraws (under coaches Koy Banal and Bert Flores).

The Tamaraws had chances to send the series into a Game 3 clincher but missed four free-throws in the end game, including two that could have tied the game with under a minute remaining.

Likewise, the Morayta-based five had to slug it out with the more experienced Eagles without Coach Glenn Capacio, whose blood pressure shot up late in the second canto and was rushed to the Medical City in Pasig City for tests.

Buenafe led all scorers with a season-best 23 points and six boards on eight-of-12 shooting while pint-sized playmaker was all over the court and finished with 10 points, five boards and three assists.

Meanwhile, season MVP Ryan Roose Garcia and Rookie of the Year Terrence Romeo were non-factors in FEU's most important game of the season, tallying a measly combined output of eight points on a horrible four-of-17 from the field.

Forward Reil Cervantes and the graduating Paul Sanga tried to carry the Tamaraws on their back with 15 and 13 markers, respectively, but had little help as FEU ended another disappointing season with a loss.

USA Breeze Past Turkey Ending 16 Year Drought

The United States of America beat Turkey 81-64 to win the 2010 FIBA World Championship.

The result ended a 16-year wait for the USA, who had not won this tournament since 1994.

In the first official game ever between the two teams, Mike Kryzewski’s team gradually pulled away as Turkey looked to be suffering the after effects of their hard-fought win over Lithuania in Saturday’s semi-final.

Nonoy Baclao, First Pick in the Recent PBA Draft

Air21 now has the pieces to become a contender again, but first has to do some mollifying on a slighted ego.

In an unexpected move that highlights a proceeding filled with twists and turns, the Express made Nonoy Baclao the top overall pick over former Ateneo teammate Rabeh Al-Hussaini in Sunday’s PBA Rookie Draft at the Market! Market! Place. Air 21 has also their third pick of Rey Guevarra.

Alaska also caught everybody by surprise by trading shooting guard Larry Fonacier to Talk ‘N Text for the rights at No. 4 and using that on Elmer Espiritu. The Aces also traded their rights at Nos. 10 and 15 to Meralco and Rain or Shine for Bonbon Custodio and a 2011 second round pick, respectively.

Cone then used his last pick, No. 21 overall, on Marvin Hayes, a known hard-nosed forward whom the coach described as “developable.”

Picking at Nos. 5 and 15, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters opted for forward Joshua Vanlandingham and RJ Jazul, the latter a sort of a bonus since few expected the former Letran star guard to be a second-rounder.

The Express actually also had the No. 6 pick and used that on Sean Michael Anthony. But reports are rife they have traded the Fil-Canadian and the rights to Ren-Ren Ritualo to Powerade in exchange for the Tigers’ 2012 first round pick and and another future Draft pick.

Barangay Ginebra shored up its wings by using its picks at Nos. 7 and 8 on Jimbo Aquino and John Marion Wilson and then tabbed Robert Labagala at No. 12.

B-Meg Derby Ace used its No. 9 pick on bulky forward Narciso Llagas and then chose versatile forward Hezy Val Acuna at No. 13.

Meralco was as busy, choosing four. The Bolts got point guard Shawn Weinstein at No. 10, wingman Riego Gamalinda at 11th, center Ford Arao at 14th and another wingman Khazim Mirza at 16th.

Barako Bull used its lone pick at No. 17 on off-guard John Carlos Hermida, but coach Junel Baculi said he can fill up his need for big men through some of the 41 of the 60 hopefuls who were not picked and thus became automatic free agents.

World Championship Update: USA Routs Angola

The United States returned to the court and rolled to another decisive victory over Angola in a major international competition.

Bringing back memories of the 1992 Olympics and even the Beijing Games from two years ago when the Americans claimed big wins against the African champions, Mike Krzyzewski's USA played for the first time since their big Group B win over Tunisia on Thursday and claimed a 121-66 victory to stay unbeaten in the FIBA World Championship.

World Championship Update: Turkey Unstoppable Against France

Turkey and their vaunted zone defense paved the way for another dominating win at the FIBA World Championship on Sunday night against France.

Bogdan Tanjevic's team scored 13 points off 11 first-half turnovers to take command and then lowered the boom in the third quarter before pulling away for a 95-77 triumph.

The Eight-Final victory has thrown the Turks into a Quarter-Final showdown with Slovenia, who blew away Australia 87-58 in the first game of the day.

The two-three zone employed by the Turks never gave France a chance.

With Omer Onan, Kerem Tunceri, Ender Arslan and Sinan Guler at the top of zone, Les Bleus couldn't cope.

When the French did throw the ball into the lane, the tall frontcourt of Turkey was an unmovable wall.

Hedo Turkoglu led the way with 20 points and the sensational Guler added 17.

World Championship Update: Slovenia Rolls Over Australia

Slovenia have barely raised a sweat in disposing of Australia 87-58 in the Eight Finals at the FIBA World Championship.

It was an ominous performance by the fourth placed team from last year’s Eurobasket, and they did it thanks to a full board of contributors highlighted by Jaka Lakovic, who had 11 first half points on his way to 19 for the game. Primoz Brezec (12 points) and Goran Dragic (10 points) led the rest.

World Championship Update: Serbia Outlasts Croatia

An Aleksandar Rasic free throw with one second remaining has delivered Serbia an incredible 73-72 (boxscore) victory over rivals Croatia to claim the first place in the 2010 FIBA World Championship quarter finals.

After the Serbs had led by seven in the last quarter, Marko Popovic and Marko Banic led Croatia back from the brink. Popovic hit 8/10 free throws in the final quarter and drew the teams level with 2/2 with 5.9 seconds remaining.

But Rasic dribbled the length of the court and drew a foul on Davor Kus, hitting the first free throw and deliberately missing the second to give Croatia no chance of responding.

For Serbia, Nenad Krstic worked hard for his 16 points, and was well supported by Rasic (15 points) and Kosta Perovic (10 points). For Croatia Popovic was tireless with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, while Roko Ukic (11 points) and Banic (10 points, 7 rebounds) were strong contributors.

World Chmapionship: Defending Champs Spain Oust Greece

Defending champions Spain broke open a close game in the fourth quarter and continued their mastery over Greece by winning their Eight-Final showdown at the FIBA World Championship on Saturday.Sergio Scariolo’s team, beaten twice in Group D, got a game-high 22 points from Juan Carlos Navarro but more importantly an excellent game from its bench and won 80-72 (boxscore) at the Sinan Erdem Dome.Fran Vazquez and Felipe Reyes combined for 12 points and 17 rebounds off the bench.

Sergio Llull was also immense. He didn’t start but had nine points in 15 minutes.

The triumph has set up a Quarter-Final with Serbia, the team they hammered in last year’s EuroBasket Final in Poland.

Simon Atkins Leads Green Archers Over Tamarraws

SIMON Atkins bucked a nasty cut above his left eye to lift La Salle to a stunning 80-66 conquest of league-leading Far Eastern University and solidify its hold of fourth spot heading into the crucial last two weeks of elimination round competition in the UAAP.

Atkins suffered the cut after colliding with RR Garcia in the first quarter and had to leave the game to get medical attention. The cut required three stitches to close, but it seemed to fire up the Archers’ captain as he went on to scatter 14 of his game-high 19 points in the second half, including 10 in the payoff period where DLSU outscored FEU 26-9.

Maidana defeats Corley

WBA light welterweight interim champion Marcos Maidana (29-1, 27 KO's) went life and death with former WBO light welterweight champiom DeMarcus Corley(37-14-1, 22 KO's) on Saturday night, beating him by an unimpressive 12 round unanimous decision at the Estadio Luna Park, in Buenos Aires, Destrito Federal, Argentina. The final judges' scores were 117-111, 115-112 and 116-110. Maidana looked to have won the fight by two or three rounds. It was a closer than I thought it would be, but a lot of credit has to go to Corley.

Hermida’s triple-double powers San Beda past EAC

FOR 40 minutes, everyone was living in Borgie Hermida’s world.

The fifth-year playmaker registered a rare triple-double to lead a San Beda College avalanche that buried Emilio Aguinaldo College, 92-68 in NCAA Season 86 at the Arena in San Juan City last Friday, August 27.

Hermida tallied 14 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in a stellar performance that helped the Red Lions turn what had been a close fight at the half to a blowout. The wily point guard turned in a career performance and gave pro scouts a lot to think about heading into the annual Philippine Basketball Association Rookie Draft, which takes place this coming Sunday.

Briggs says Klitschko will be A 30-Second First Round Knockout Victim

There are three pretty big boxing news items currently circulating on the net. Firstly, Shannon Briggs, who will challenge WBC heavyweight king Vitali Klitschko in Germany on October 16th, said today at a press conference in Kiev, Ukraine, that he will make “Dr. Steel Hammer” his “30-second first-round KO victim.”

Briggs, 38 and having won his last three bouts via 1st-round KO, says a lot of his fights tend to end in quick time, and that this will be the case in October. “The Cannon,” 51-5-1(45) also told the gathered media that it was Klitschko who inspired him to make the comeback he set out on after his poor showing against Sultan Ibragimov.

UE Subdues Defending Champs

APPARENTLY, the University of the East is in it to win it.

James Martinez scored 22 points, including four three-point bombs in the fourth quarter, to lift the Red Warriors past Ateneo de Manila, 62-60 in UAAP Season 73 at the Araneta Coliseum last Thursday, August 26.

It was a reversal of roles from their first encounter where Ateneo erased a UE lead in the fourth quarter. With Ateneo up by seven at the beginning of the payoff period, Martinez opened up Ateneo’s perimeter defense by nailing four of his six threes on a day where he shot 60 percent from beyond the arc.

Peek, Belga, Quinahan Trade Places

In a prelude to a Macmac Cardona trade, Meralco and Talk n Text, with Air21 as conduit, sealed a minor swap Friday involving Beau Belga, Ali Peek and JR Quiñahan.

More trades involving these three ball clubs could happen in the next few days, with the biggest possibly Cardona’s eventual transfer from Talk n Text to Meralco.

Meantime, Meralco got Belga, Talk n Text reacquired Peek while Air21 welcomed Quiñahan back to its fold.

Alaska Dethrones San Miguel, Claims Championship

The Alaska Aces underscored their mastery over San Miguel with a scintillating 102-88 victory in Game 6 of the Finals to clinch the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference championship at the Araneta Coliseum.

Displaying tremendous confidence and excellent teamwork, the Aces practically dominated the game, taking control with an 18-8 run midway in the first on the way to claiming the franchise’s 13th championship.

Diamon Simpson, the unselfish, versatile 22-year-old import, wound up his first tour of duty in PBA with another superb performance, finishing with 28 points, 19 rebounds and five blocks that all but accentuated his domination over Gabe Freeman – the conference’s Best Import.

Alaska wrapped up the best-of-seven series, 4-2.

Alaska Inching Closer To the Championship

The Alaska Aces have a date with destiny on Sunday.

Starting guards LA Tenorio and Cyrus Baguio got things going for three quarters and the Aces preserved their efforts with strong fourth quarter for a 90-83 victory against San Miguel in Game 4 of the PBA Fiesta Conference Finals at the Cuneta Astrodome Friday.

With a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, the Aces need just one more win to clinch their first title in three years.

Beermen Cut Aces Lead 2-1

San Miguel showed signs of life in Game 3 and sent a strong signal that this series is not ending anytime soon that some had thought.

Gabe Freeman redeemed himself from an awful stint in Game 2 and the Beermen displayed a sense of urgency not seen from them in the first two games as the defending champions smothered the Alaska Aces, 96-80, Wednesday night at the Araneta Coliseum.

Alaska still leads the series, 2-1, but momentum has clearly shifted to the Beermen, who avoided a sweep that appeared imminent when the Aces completely dominated them in Games 1 and 2.

Freeman accounted for 24 points and dominated the boards with 20 rebounds, making up for his forgettable effort in Game 2 where he was held to a conference-low 13 points, while underscoring SMB’s dominant game.

James Yap Wins Second MVP Plum

JAMES Yap has been successfully rewarded for separating his professional from his personal life.

The league’s most popular player claimed his second season Most Valuable Player plum in five years, leading those feted Wednesday by the PBA in its Leo Awards at the Araneta Coliseum.

The 28-year-old dead-shot garnered a total 2,577 points from statistics and votes from representatives of the media, players, PBA Commissioner’s Office and television coveror SolarTV to handily win over Alaska’s LA Tenorio and San Miguel Beer’s Jay Washington.

MERALCO, The Newest Member of the PBA

The PBA Board of Governors officially approved the sale of the Sta. Lucia Realty franchise to Meralco during its regular meeting Tuesday, paving the way for the return of the country’s biggest electric company to the basketball scene.

Alaska Takes Commanding 2-0 Lead

The sight of Miami head coach Eric Spoelstra at ringside provided some inspiration for the Alaska Aces, particularly on Diamon Simpson.

“I was aware he was around. His presence was truly inspirational,” said the prolific import who turned in another double-double effort in Alaska’s 94-90 victory against San Miguel Beer Sunday that gave the Aces a 2-0 lead in their PBA Fiesta Conference Finals at the Araneta Coliseum.

Alaska Stuns Beermen Claims Game1

TIRED? Absolutely not. Pressured? Leave it out. Alaska is by far an entirely different ball club than the one that finished fourth in the elimination round.

And if the San Miguel Beermen don’t watch out, the Aces might just turn the championship series into another shocker just like the way they did in the semi-finals against Talk ‘N Text.

Diamon Simpson was steady, LA Tenorio was huge again down the stretch, and Alaska came back from a lethargic start to stun San Miguel Beer, 89-83, in Game One Friday night of their best-of-seven Finals series in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

Jay Washington Bagged Best Player Award; Gabe Freeman the Best Import

PART of the best twice in his career, Jay Washington now has an award that makes him the best.

Among the imports, Gabe Freeman remains the best.

Washington, a two-time member of the Mythical Team and No. 1 pick in the 2005 Draft, was named Friday night Best Player of the PBA Fiesta Conference and Freeman as Best Import in simple ceremonies preceding Game One of the Finals between San Miguel Beer and Alaska at the Araneta Coliseum.

Talk N Text Claims Third Place

Talk ‘N Text wrapped up its season with a third-place finish in the PBA Fiesta Conference.

Macmac Cardona had conference-high 30 points to power the Tropang Texters to a 113-95 romp over B-Meg Derby Ace Friday at the Araneta Coliseum in a game Talk 'N Text head coach Chot Reyes branded as a “useless game to play”.

Alaska enters PBA Finals

All series long, Talk 'N Text tried to set a tempo more suitable to their nimble line-up. Alaska, however, wouldn't budge. So in Game 7, while Talk 'N Text Head Coach Chot Reyes was all dressed up to disco, Alaska Head Coach Tim Cone, sporting his ubiquitous slacks and necktie, was set for the prom. By starting Game 7 with Jared Dillinger, Kelly Williams, Aaron Aban and Jason Castro, the Tropang Texters' intention seemed obvious: let's break-dance. By using just eight men, Alaska's game-plan suggested something else: let's stroll. It was like watching an awkward dance. The guy wanted to boogie. The girl wanted to waltz.

San Miguel Beermen Enters Finals

San Miguel Beer stoked the fire of its title-retention campaign.

SMB stayed in the hunt for back-to-back PBA Fiesta Conference championships and ended the B-MEG Derby Ace’s hopes for a season double crown as the Beermen clobbered the Llamados, 91-83, in a do-or-die match at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.

Raising their game notches higher after a sorry loss Friday, the Beermen put to an end the Llamados’ season, winning their best-of-seven semifinals showdown at 4-2.

The Beermen are heading to the finals either against the Alaska Milk Aces or the Talk n Text Tropang Texers.

It’s the 31st finals for the league’s winningest team.

ALASKA FORGES SERIES DECIDER

ALASKA will not let itself be struck by the Talk ‘N Text lightning anew. Cyrus Baguio made sure of that by pulling off a rally-stifling steal and conversion that propped the Aces to a 94-83 victory over the Tropang Texters Sunday that forged a deciding game in their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals series at the Araneta Coliseum. Those clutch plays happened at the most opportune of times, coming in the final 1:11 that stopped cold Talk 'N Text’s charge to within 83-91 from a 19-point fourth quarter deficit. From there, Alaska’s defense continued to hold as it bounced back from an 81-82 loss in Game 5 last Friday and set up the do-or-die match in the best-of-seven duel on Wednesday.

Talk N Text Outlasts Alaska, Takes 3-2 Series Lead

Playing in honor of a departed, Talk n Text nurtured the very life of its final aspiration. Jason Castro drove past Joe De Vance for the go-ahead basket then Talk n Text made a huge defensive stop in the closing seconds as the Texters pulled off an 82-81 nail-biter over the Alaska Milk Aces to move in the threshold of the PBA Fiesta Conference finals at the Araneta Coliseum Friday night.

B-MEG DERBY ACE LIVES FOR ANOTHER DAY, FORCES GAME 6

Ryan Gregorio is not looking past Game 6. But the B-Meg Derby Ace head coach thinks there’s a purpose why the Llamados are still alive. Import Tony Washam scored 14 of his game-high 28 points in the fourth quarter as B-Meg Derby Ace staved off elimination with an 88-82 victory against San Miguel Beer in Game 5 of their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinal series Friday at the Araneta Coliseum. The defending champion Beermen still leads the series 3-2 so Sunday’s Game 6 which will also take place also at the Big Dome will be another do-or-die stint for the Llamados, who managed to overcome the same predicament back in 2006 while carrying the colors of Purefoods. That team trailed Alaska 3-1 in the 2006 Philippine Cup semifinals but rallied to win the next three games to stun the Aces and eventually claim the championship after beating Red Bull in the Finals.

Beermen Takes a Commanding 3-1 lead in the Series Against B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados

Mighty San Miguel Beer is a game away from gaining a shot at back-to-back PBA Fiesta Conference championships. The Beermen, the reigning champs with fresher legs, wore down the B-MEG Derby Ace Llamados, 83-75, to move in the doorstep of the finals Wednesday at the Cuneta Astrodome. Cashing in heavily on their domination off the boards, the Beermen opened a 14-point spread, 75-61, midway through the final period and went on to get the pivotal 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven semifinal series.

Daniels leads TNT In 83-62 Rout Of Alaska; SERIES NOW TIED 2-ALL

Under the threat of being replaced, Shawn Daniels asserted himself in Game 4 as Talk ‘N Text bowled over Alaska, 83-62 Wednesday to even their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinal series at two games apiece at the Cuneta Astrodome. The portly import scored 13 points to share scoring honors with teammate Jason Castro and grabbed 14 rebounds in a game that may decide his fate with the team.

ALASKA GAIN UPPERHAND, UP 2-1

LA Tenorio outshone Jimmy Alapag in Game One then the Talk n Text point guard turned things around in the next game.

Being upstaged for the second straight game, Tenorio stole the thunder in the end as Alaska Milk upended Talk n Text, 90-86, for the crucial 2-1 lead in their PBA Fiesta Conference best-of-seven semifinal showdown at the Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.

Tenorio struggled most of the way but delivered when needed the most as the Aces moved to within two games of the finals.

The former Ateneo star guard scored all of their last seven points after being held down to two points in the first 47 minutes of play.

Beermen Outlasts Llamados, lead 2-1 in their Series

THERE is another side to San Miguel Beer it fully bared to B-Meg Derby Ace Sunday.

The Beermen were at their most awesome on the defensive end in hacking out a 74-70 victory and wresting back the upper hand in their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals series at the Araneta Coliseum.

Arwind Santos drained a crucial right corner triple that shattered the last deadlock and pegged a 73-70 count, still 65 seconds to go, before SMB harried Derby Ace into muffing three of its last four offensive thrusts.

The only other Llamados possession resulted in a decisive inbounding error and led to a charity by Dondon Hontiveros for the final count, only 21.7 ticks left.

That tough defensive stance after being jolted by several 12-point deficits early enabled SMB to hold Derby Ace to just 25 points in the second half, both a conference low and season-tying worst for the league.

It also resulted in the win that bounced the Beermen back from a numbing 94-95 loss in the best-of-seven duel’s Game 2 only last Friday and made coach Siot Tanquingcen beam about his charges’ overall defensive efforts.

B-MEG TIES SERIES ON WALSHAM HEROICS

MAKING the game’s biggest offensive play wasn’t enough for Tony Washam. He preserved it by pulling off the game’s biggest stop, too.

Derby Ace’s prolific import completed a three-point play with 7.9 seconds remaining, and then added further luster to it with a steal in the subsequent possession, and the Llamados successfully fought back from an 18-point deficit in a gut-wrenching 95-94 victory over San Miguel Beer Friday night in the PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

The man who struggled in the series opener on 6-of-18 field-goal shooting scored 33 points, 10 coming in the final period punctuated by a strong move to the basket. He connected on a lay-up, drew the sixth and final foul from Gabe Freeman and sank the bonus shot as Derby Ace tied the series at one game apiece.

Talk N Text Point GuradGet Back on Tenorio

Jimmy Alapag, Ryan Reyes and Jason Castro responded to their coach’s challenge and Talk N' Text rebounded from its embarrassing defeat in Game 1.

Alapag had a brilliant second half where he scored all his 25 points which helped propel the Tropang Texters to a 100-94 victory against the Alaska Aces Friday and evened their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals series at one game apiece.

“L.A. Tenorio manhandled us in Game 1. So the challenge for Jimmy and Jason (Castro) was to make sure it does not happen again,” said Talk 'N Text head coach Chot Reyes.

After a scoreless first half, Alapag made 8 of 11 shots in the second half, including 5 of 8 from the three-point range on the way to a double-double effort as he also had 10 assists.

Unbeaten Eaglets, Bullpups collide

Defending champion Ateneo de Manila University and vastly improved National University put their unbeaten records on the line today as they battle for supremacy in the UAAP juniors basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena.

Both sporting identical 4-0 cards, the Eaglets and the Bullpups dispute the top spot when they meet in the 9 a.m. curtain-raiser of another thrilling four-game bill halfway into the first round of competition.

Later in the day, Far Eastern University-FERN takes on Adamson University at 10:45 a.m., followed by the 1 p.m. clash between the University of Santo Tomas and the University of the East. De La Sa-Zobel and the hard-luck University of the Philippines Integrated School wrap up today’s hostilities in the main game at 2:45 p.m.

The Eaglets are coming off a 78-61 whipping of the unpredictable Baby Falcons on Saturday behind the 23-point explosion of Ateneo big man Von Pessumal, who ably relieved main man Kiefer Ravena of the scoring load via an impressive 8-of-13 clip from the field.

Alaska Tops Talk-N-Text in Game 1

QUICK UPDATE:

ALASKA coach Tim Cone knew his bench players needed to come in and contribute in order for them to beat Talk N Text.

Even he was as surprised as the next person with the kind of games his relievers put in as the Aces manhandled the Tropang Texters 104-88 Wednesday at the start of their PBA Fiesta Conference semifinals series at the Araneta Coliseum.

Adamson Falcons escape UST Tigers

Adamson University survived the high-wire three-point sniping of an unrelenting University of Santo Tomas (UST) down the stretch to eke out a tough 75-71 win yesterday in the 73rd UAAP men’s basketball tournament at the Philsports Arena.

Veteran point guard Lester Alvarez typified the Falcons’ endgame composure in a break-neck second-half duel with the Tigers, who held a 63-60 lead with less than five minutes gone by in the pay-off period.

The third-year Adamson sentinel nailed five straight points anchored on a triple and a squeeze-in lay-up in the crucial 1:34 mark of the fourth to wrest the upperhand for the Falcons, 67-65, before finalizing the count from the stripe.

Celtics to sign Jermaine O'Neal

Danny Ainge, the Boston Celtics general manager confirmed that the Celtics have agreements in place with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen that would keep Boston's new Big Three intact for a run at a third NBA finals in four years. Ainge also said he expects to sign free agent center Jermaine O'Neal to fill in while center Kendrick Perkins recovers from knee surgery.

Pierce agreed last week to a four-year deal worth about $61 million, and Allen agreed on Wednesday to a two-year deal worth $20 million. O'Neal's contract is reportedly for the midlevel exception, about $5.76 million in the first year of a two-year deal.

Kevin Garnett, the other member of the new Big Three that led the Celtics to their record 17th NBA title in 2008, is under contract for two more years, and emerging star Rajon Rondo is locked up through 2014-15. Coach Doc Rivers also put off a long-debated sabbatical to keep the team together.

Source: NBA News

Stoudemire is Ready

The New York Knicks have lost long enough. Amare Stoudemire is ready for what he calls the "start of a new era.''

Stoudemire joined the Knicks on Thursday, coming to a team that has never had a winning season since he entered the league out of high school in 2002.

"It's about challenges and this is definitely the ultimate challenge for myself to eventually bring the Knicks back to where they rightfully belong,'' Stoudemire said at a news conference at Madison Square Garden.

The All-Star power forward agreed to a deal Monday with a team looking to win again after a franchise-worst nine straight losing seasons.

Source and Continue reading: http://www.nba.com/2010/news/07/08/amare.signs.ap/index.html

Ray Allen Returns to the Boston Celtics

Ray Allen confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday night that he has agreed to a two-year, $20 million contract to return to Boston. With Kevin Garnett under contract, Paul Pierce on the verge of a new four-year deal and coach Doc Rivers also agreeing to return, the Celtics can keep together the core of the 2008 NBA champions for at least two more years.

Clippers introduce Del Negro as their new coach

Vinny Del Negro could have taken it easy after being fired by the Chicago Bulls. They still owe him money, so there was no pressing need to jump back on the NBA coaching carousel.

Still, he couldn't resist.

Del Negro agreed to a three-year deal to coach the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, taking over a team that went 29-53 last season and missed the playoffs for the 15th time in 17 years.

Llamados Forge Playoffs Against the Berrmen

Behind the 43 points and 20 rebounds from Cliff Brown, the Llamados downed the Coffee Masters 106-100. It was a sweet victory by the Llamados which team caught up with the Beermen in the 2nd spot. This two teams will figure it out in the playoff for that coveted 2nd spot semifinals seat.

Despite of the rumored marital status, James Yap sizzled for 18 points and Nino Canaleta added 13 points. The Barako Bull Coffee Masters is headed for an early exit in the PBA with a record of 3 wins against 15 losses. Sam Monroe had another impressive performance coming away with 37 points.

Beermen Outlasts Alska, assured of Outright Semifinals Playoff

The San Miguel Beermen was relegated to play an important game against the Aces. The Beermen respond with a sounding 85-74 win over the Aces. Jay Washington carried the team with 19 points while their import Gabe Freeman added 15 points. The game was controlled by the Beermen right from the start and never looked back. There are mini runs that Alaska made, but the Beermen has an answer on every run. They have a 13-5 record, still waiting for the outcome of the B-Meg Derby Ace against the Barako Bull. If the Llamados will win, there will be a playoff match for the 2nd outright semifinal spot between the Llamados and the Beermen.

Los Angeles Lakers Are Back to Back Champs

Trailing by almost three-fourths of the ballgame, the Lakers used a late rally in the 4th quarter capped by a three point shot by Derek Fisher to tie the score at 64 all. It was a see-saw battle afterwards as the Lakers used to break the game wide open,leading 76-70 with over 1 minute left on the game with timely baskets by Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant. However, the Celtics responded with a three pointer from Rasheed Wallace before Ron Artest also made a three pointer on the next possession to give the Lakers a 79-73 lead. Ray Allen scored another three pointer making the count at 79-76 before Kobe Bryant canned two charities. Despite struggling on the three point area, Rondo made a 3-pointer. But that was all the Celtics could give as the Lakers Sasha Vujacic made pressure packed 2 free throws as the Lakers captured the title, 83-79. They are the back to back champs.

The game was controlled by the Celtics and they have a big lead in the third quarter with 13 points,49-36 before the Lakers onslaught started. Kobe Bryant had 23 points but struggling by mostly part of the game on 6 made out of 24 attempts. But the night belongs to Ron Artest scoring 20 points and making the Lakers offensive afloat in the 2nd quarter where the Celtics trying to pull away.

The big four of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo contributed well in this game scoring by double digits. While Rasheed Wallace, starting in place of the injured KEndrick Perkins, contributed 11 points. But that was not enough to overshadow the offensive rebounding edge of the Lakers with 23 compared to 8 by the Celtics.

This is the back-to-back title for the Lakers that was once defeated by the same Celtics squad in the 2008 finals. Sweet revenge as we called for Kobe Bryant and company and so as Ron Artest, who bagged his first ever NBA Title. No one also sweeter than what the Lakers coach achieved, who lives what his reputation is of having an NBA Playoff record of 48-0 of taking the series after winning game 1. The Lakers captured their 16th title trailing the Boston Celtics, the team with 17 titles to show.

Lakers Took Game 6, Force Rubber Match

Behind the leadership of Kobe Bryant and after that angry statements to his teammates at the end of Game 5, the Lakers back from its winning ways routing the Boston Celtics, 89-67 and force a game 7. Bryant led the Lakers with 26 points and 11 rebounds. He was vocal about the lacking of support in game 5 from his teammates, but this game turned to be the rejuvenation of the supporting cast of the Lakers. Pau Gasol added 17 points, Artest had 15 and Vujacic stepped up from the bench finishing with 9 points. Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown had their shares of the game, contributing the added sparks from the bench.

The Celtics were outrebounded, outhustled and ineffective of this game. They were shorthanded as their starting center Kendrick Perkins suffered a right knee injury in the first quarter and did not returned on the game. Ray Allen had a decent showing with 19 points but Pierce was saddled down with only 13 points to offer.

The game was one-sided with the Lakers making a big run in the first quarter and never looked back. Game 7 is coming and it would be a war in the offing.

Game 5 Belongs to Celtics

The Boston Celtics have managed to weather the storm from the onslaught of Kobe Bryant in the third quarter and scored a go-ahead win over the Lakers, 92-86. Paul Pierce has found his touch in this game scattering with 27 points and Rajon Rondo and Kevin Garnett added 18 points apiece. The game was in control by the Celtics from the start and managed to put a dagger on every Laker run in the 3rd and 4th quarter. Kobe Bryant exploded for 38 points, including 19 points in the 3rd quarter that threatened the Boston Celtics lead. The needed support for Kobe Bryant were not there, and only Pau Gasol had double digit in scoring other than Kobe. No other player of the Lakers did manage to score double digits. This was a sorry loss for the Lakers as they would head back home in game 6 holding a 2-3 deficit in the series. For the Celtics, they are one win away of capturing their 2nd title in three years. The momentum is on their side and they can end the series with a win at the road in game 6.

Bench Players Lift Celtics to Victory, tie Series

A spectacular performance from the bench players, especially Glen Davis, carried the Boston Celtics to a must win victory in game 4, 96-89 that tied the series 2-2. There was no stopping Davis, particularly in the 4th quarter that saw the Celtics used a 36 point effort in the 4th quarter, 21 points coming from the bench to overcome the 33 points of Kobe Bryant. The Celtics also dominated the Lakers by outscoring them 54-34 points form the paint. Nate Robinson also contributed big for the Celtics with 12 points and Glen Davis finished with 18 points. Game 5 will be on Sunday night (Monday morning in the Philippines) again at the TD Garden in Boston.

Cariaso Announces Retirement After 15 Seasons in the PBA

Its been a long time that I read an article about Jeffrey "The Jet" Cariaso. I was in total shocked of the fact that he had already announced just last month of his plan to retire for good in the end of this conference in the PBA. Cariaso, a Fil-Am player who played in Sonoma University in Los Angles Califronia once played in Tanduay and the Mobiline team in the PBA. But the most memorable in his illustrious pro career was the time when he helped the Coca Cola Tigers and Alaska capture championships. And the biggest highlight of them all, is the one that he contributed most when the Alaska Milkmen-named then team achieved the coveted Philippine Grandslam in 1996.

A member of the RP Team that fall short to play a gold-medal medal game in the 2002 Busan Asian Games, Cariaso is now a on a reserve list of the Alaska Aces after he has not played a single minute in the first six games of Alaska. He keeps on talking about his retirement this season, and with all due respect, he wants to play inspired basketball of his final games as a PBA player. But to no avail he was not given a respect from his coach in Alaska and from the Alaska management. But, as a professional he is, he asked the management to put him in the reserve list for the betterment of the team and to give chance to the other players as well. He is thankful to the whole Alaska management that put him as a good player for about 15 years in the PBA.

Way back last season, Cariaso has an impressive numbers to show with 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.16 assists throughout his whole PBA career, that includes Rookie of the Year and three time member of the Mythical Selection. At 38, he can still play if given a chance and he wants to be out in the PBA with a big bang and a bright note.

Lakers Steal Homecourt Advantage Won Game 3

The Los Angeles Lakers outmatched their old rivals in game 3 holding off a late rally by the Celtics in the 4th quarter on their way to win game 3, 91-84 stealing homecourt advantage. Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 29 points and Derek Fisher scored 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter, including that g0-ahead three point play in the closing seconds of the game to seal the win for the Lakers.

After 48 hours of setting the NBA Finals record of 8 3-pointers in a game, Ray Allen had a huge disappearing act in the game going 0-13 field goal shooting. He scored only 2 points throughout the gmae. Kevin Garnett lead the way for the Celtics with 25 points but was not enough to outclassed the mighty Lakers.

Game 4 is thursday night in Boston (Friday morning here in the Philippines)

Ray Allen Unleashes as Celtics tied Series

A sweet shooting night and an NBA Finals record breaker set by Ray Allen as the Celtics won over the Los Angeles Lakers, 103-94, taking the series back to square one. Allen is very impressive in the first half, scoring 27 points, including seven 3-pointers. There is no stopping him in the first half alone as the Celtics took a commanding 14 point lead in the 2nd quarter on their way to a 54-48 lead at halftime. The Lakers used a quick run at the start of the third quarter but the Celtics keep on holding back in every Lakers' run. The game was closed throughout the third quarter and in the fourth quarter until the Celtics used a huge run late in the 4th quarter and taste the lead for good on a Rondo's jumper to give the C's a 95-90 lead. There is no turning back for the Celtics as they never let the Lakers come back into the game. Ray Allen finished with 32 points, on eight 3-pointers (Breaking an NBA Finals record) and Rajon Rondo took over the game in the 2nd half with a triple double 19 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Pau Gasol of the Los Angeles Lakers had another solid performance scoring 25 points while Kobe Bryant added 21 points and Andrew Bynum had his best game in the playoffs finishing with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 7 blocks.

The next three games will shift back to the TD Garden in Boston.

James Yap carries Llamados Outlast Beermen

The B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados, which lived and die with the hands of their go-to-guy James Yap, was victorious over the San Miguel Beermen 83-82. It was the slimmest of lead that saw the two team fight toe-to-toe down the stretch. James Yap did not disappoint his team, making an eight-foot jumper in the left corner to give the Lllamados a one-point lead with 6.7 seconds remaining. San Miguel has another chance of winning the game but Dondon Hontiveros missed the shot that could have given the lead to the Beermen, much to the delight of the Llamados. James Yap finished with 23 points in the game. The win keep the B-Meg Derby Ace holds the record of 9-5 and a solo third place, closing the gap with the Beermen in the overall standings. The latter had a 11-3 win-loss record behind erstwhile leader Talk N Text Tropang Texters (12-2).

Cotto TKO's Foreman to Win the Superwelterweight Title

It was an ugly win for Miguel Cotto but he will take it by redeeming himself after that loss on Manny Pacuqiao to capture his 4th world title in 4 weight division stopping the former champion Yuri Foreman in the 9th round. The win gave Cotto a very important feat in his illustrious career, making him a world champion again in the Superwelterwight Division. The fight was as hard as Cotto thought as Foreman uses his speed and agility to manuever Cotto in a lot of angles and making Cotto pay whenever the latter will go for a brawl. From the first to six rounds, Foreman was in the match until an unavoidable excuse happen. Foreman hit the deck and injured his leg. It was a sudden change of strategy for the injured Foreman as he has no side-to-side movements this time and he can continue only if he will engage on a brawl with Cotto. The fight was then in the advantage of Miguel Cotto, hitting Foreman with a barrage of combination. Courageous Foreman but he cannot stop Cotto from punishing him. The Cotto could have stopped a little early in the 8th round after the corner of Foreman throw a towel at the boxing ring, that could be the end of the fight. But referee Arthure Mercante Jr ruled it as void and the fight would push through. Battled-down, Foreman refuses to surrender but he was getting tagged and hit by Cotto at times and his legs are not as strong with the injury. The end happen when Cotto hit Foreman a left hook at the body sending the former champion to the canvass. It is the end of the fight much to the delight of Miguel Cotto.

Bryant, Gasol Combined to Lead Lakers Take Game 1

The 2008 NBA Finals loss against this the same team is a hard to forget experience for the Lakers. Showing what they felt about that traumatic experience, the Lakers showed what they got, surpassing the Boston Celtics with a big win at home, 102-89, taking the series opener. Kobe Bryant, once again, lead the Lakers with 30 points and Pau Gasol asserted himself finishing with 23 points and 14 rebounds. Bryant scored at least 30 points on 10 of its last 11 games in the playoffs. He is phenomenal and shares leadership that provided a morale boost on his teammates, particularly Ron Artest who scored 15 points.

The Boston Celtics were outhustled, outrebounded and seems like one step slower than the Lakers throughout this game. The game speaks by itself and they cannot undo the Lakers performance in this game. Paul Pierce lead the C's with 24 points but is not enough to achieve the victory in Game 1. They will try to tie the series in Game 2.

Phil Jackson, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers has a 47-0 record of winning the series when taking Game 1.

Talk N Text Won 10 Straight Extending Franchise Record

The Talk N Text Tropang Texters were never to be denied, sending the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters crushing down to the ground with a sounding win 104-85. This is their 10th straight win and setting up a franchise record for most winning streak of the team. This is also the first time that Coach Chot Reyes accomplished this feat after becoming a head coach in 1993. The winning streak is the longest in this conference and caught up the San Miguel Beermen in the first place of the overall standings with an identical 11-2 record. They seek for the outright semifinals.

Holding down Solomon Mercado and Gabe Norwood was the key to victory for the Texters. The duo combined for just 11 points in the entire game. They were led by their import Jai Lewis with 21 points but the needed local support was nowhere to be found

Jason Castro, Ranidel de Ocampo and Macmac Cardona lead the Tropang Texters with 14 points apiece while newly acquired Kelly Williams had another double-double performance with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Tropang Texters broke the game wide open with a 20-7 run in an eight-minute span in the first quarter and never looked back. Their next game will be against Barangay Ginebra.

Renewing Rivalry: Boston Celtics Vs Los Angeles Lakers

Renewed domination and Renewed Rivalry between this two teams promises to be a history in the making. The Lakers lived up from the expectation of all NBA experts that they will make a run in this years finals. With the added firepower of Ron Artest, the Lakers is one of the early favorites to win the championship. There are also teams that has a higher ranking to make it to the Finals. Among them, is the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Dallas Mavericks. But basketball is a game where proper execution and mental toughness should be the key, the Cavs and the Mavs where nowhere to have that and was knocked out in contention.

The emergence of the Boston Celtics in the playoffs are the big surprise. They renewed dominance with the way they play in the playoffs. The energy is as high as the experience they feel in the last 2008 Championship, where they are the NBA Champions. With the look of it, the C's have found the energy and the antidote to proved their critics wrong.

Redemption is the main reason why the Lakers could be this years Championship team. Losing in 2008 finals with this the same team is a major edge in this years finals. The Lakers are the more hungry between this two teams. And the look of it, they will avenge that loss in 2008.

Fearless Forecast: Lakers will capture the championship within 6 games.

Celtics Back to the NBA Finals

Looking too old, tired and easy to beat up, the Boston Celtics proved once again that they up for a challenge, beating the Orlando Magic 96-84 to win the series in six games. The C's are back into the finals,their 2 finals appearance in the last three years.

Paul Pierce was instrumental leading the Celtics with 31 points and 13 rebounds while Allen and Rondo added 20 and 14 points respectively with Nate Robinson had his best game in the playoffs scoring 13 points,12 in the 2nd quarter after Rondo hurt his back. The contribution of Robinson is big for the Celtics as they need an extra points from the bench.

Dwight Howard was impressive for the Magic cause, scoring 28 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. His dominance was not enough for the Magic. They fell short again after that runner-up finished last year.

With this win, the Celtics will have to face either the winner of the Lakers-Suns series with the Lakers holding a 3-2 series lead.

Artest To The Rescue

Trading Trevor Ariza to the Houston Rockets for Ron Artest made a positive note for the defending champs. Artest rebounded a missed jump shot by Kobe Bryant and banked on a wild shot at the buzzer. The shot went in, much to the delight of the Lakers and their fans. It was only the second basket of Ron Artest in the entire game and the last shot is the most important of them all giving the win for the Lakers 103-101. Kobe Bryant lead the Lakers with 30 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists. The game was very much heading into overtime after the Suns rallied from an 18 point deficit to tie it from a Jason Richardson's bank a 3 pointer after two consecutive tries from the three points line. But that all set up for the heroics of Ron Artest. Steve Nash lead the Suns with 29 points and 11 assists, his best game of the series. Phoenix will come back home in Game 6 and will have another shot to extend the series if they win in their homecourt. The Lakers will try to finish the Suns in that game.

Magic Lived for Another Day

With the season on the line was no stopping the Orlando Magic to put on a show in game 5 of their series against the Boston Celtics toppling the latter 113-92 and cut the series deficit down 3-2. Jameer Nelson and Dwight Howard has been instrumental in both wins, finished with 24 and 21 points respectively. Howard added 10 rebounds and 5 blocked shots. Rashard Lewis and JJ Reddick added 14 points apiece for Orlando hitting 13 3-pointers in the game.

Howard was so dominant once again after Kendrick Perkins was ejected late in the 2nd quarter and Glen Davis suffered a concussion after an elbow hit on the head by Howard. Rasheed Wallace relegated to play defense against Howard scrord 21 points off the bench but fouled in the fourth quarter, but tweaked his back in the process. The Magic has won 2 in a row after winning that game 4.

Game 6 will head back to Boston hoping they could end the series or the Magic will win game 6 and force a decider in their own homecourt.

Suns Tied Series With the Lakers

Kobe Bryant was as impressive again for the Lakers but the trio of Channing Frye, Leandro Barbosa and Jared Dudley leveled the output of Kobe. This three players coming from the bench were superb in that fourth quarter run, hitting 3 pointers of their own after they stretch the lead from 89-87 to 98-89. That was the run that made the difference of the game highlighted by those bench players. Amare Stoudemire was held down to 21 points after a 42-points output in game 3, still leads the Suns. While Barbosa and Frye socred 14 points as the latter found his touch in this game and Dudley contributed 11 points. Kobe Bryant leads the Lakers with 38 point and dished out 10 assists.

The Series will now shift back to Staples Center in Los Angeles, California where the Lakers looking for the critical win in game 5 while the Suns will have the opportunity of stealing the homecourt advantage of the Lakers.

My Prediction: Suns will win in Game 5 and will closed out the series in game 6 at their homecourt.

Magic Keeping the Hopes Alive

The Orlando Magic lives for another day and forced a game 5 in the series, winning 96-92 in overtime over the veteran-laiden Boston Celtics. Dwight Howard's great performance and clutch baskets down the stretch, helps the Magic to avenge its game 3 loss. Howard finished with 32 points and 16 rebounds while Jameer Nelson had 23 points and 9 assists. Nelson contributed back-to-back crucial 3-pointers in overtime.

While the Magic having a great game, the Boston Celtics were challenged with this one. They came short for a series sweep. Rajon Rondo was held down to 9 points and 8 assists that caused to that Celtics loss. Paul Pierce leads the Celtics with 32 points, needing 25 shots to get that points. Ray Allen added 22 points, including a barrage of 3's in the regulation and overtime that keep the C's into the game. Game 5 will be going back to Orlando, a do-or-die game for the Magic, as the Celtics still holds the series 3-1.

Fearless Forecast: Orlando Magic will win game 5 but the Celtics will go back home and win game 6 to finish the series.

Mike Brown Fired as Cavaliers Coach

The Cleveland Cavaliers have fired Mike Brown as head coach. He has one year remaining on the contract for the Cavs but the Cavaliers opted to fire him.

The Cavaliers were the number 1 team in the season but were ousted by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the playoffs, fall short once again for that championship ring that the team desired. Last year, the Cavaliers was also the number one team winning 66 wins in the season but loss to the Orlando Magic in the conference finals. This time, they fell short again, much of the blame going to Mike Brown.

Mike Brown is best to be remembered as the coach that has the highest percentage of winning in the history of the Cavaliers franchise having an overall winning percentage of .663 winning 272 games while losing only 138 games.

Stoudemire Carries Suns Over Lakers

Amare Stoudemire defies his critics by almost singlehandedly carried the Suns for an all-important win over the lakers, 118-109. Stoudemire had a game-high 42 points plus 11 rebounds. He was supported by another big man Robin Lopez who had 20 points on 8-for-10 shooting. This was the best game by Stoudemire in the playoffs, after having not-as-spectacular in the first 2 games of the series. Kobe Bryant led the defending champs with 36 points and 11 assists and Pau Gasol added 23 points. Lamar Odom was not much of a factor this time, having a miserable game scoring only 10 points on 4-for-14 shooting. The Suns has cut the series deficit 1-2 with them going for an equalizer in Game 4 at home.

Sweet Revenge for Michael Domingo

For the past months, Michael Domingo is so vocal about of getting back what was lost on his friend Z Gorres last year. Promising a sweet revenge in the offing was Domingo's mission of giving Luis Melendez a good fight and a knocking him out as what the latter did on Z Gorres last year that put Z Gorres out of the boxing world. It was a life threatening injury that Gorres suffered. And now, the fight is on, Domingo has the golden chance of putting this Colombian to rest.

In the first round, Domingo was simply the aggressive fighter between the two. He was chasing Melendez all over the ring and winds up with a lot of combinations in the body and in the head. In the second round, Domingo was again the aggressor and making perfect combination with accurate punching. Melendez vows to be staggered. But a left hook connected by Domingo on Melendez body, puts the Colombian into the canvass prompting the referee to count him out. It was a sweet victory for Michael Domingo that after the win, he turned into Z Gorres at ringside simply saying that "This one is for you" and Z Gorres replying up with his thumbs up on Domingo for a mission completed.

Williams Powers Talk N Text against Former Team

Former Sta Lucia Realtor marquee player Kelly Williams was impressive but in his new uniform with the Talk N Text Tropang Texters winning 92-78 over the Sta Lucia Realty. Williams came away with a double-double performance 19 points and 10 rebounds in his first game against his former team with 7-of-11 field goal shooting and 5-of 6 at the stripe.

In the first game, the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados won over the Coca Cola Tigers, 104-91 with James Yap scoring 14 points highlighted on 3-for-3 shooting in the third quarter. Roger Yap had 16 points , all in the second half and Peter June Simon added 15 points, 10 in the fourth quarter. The Coca Cola Tigers were led by Rashad Bell's 28 points and 26 points by Gary David, but was not enough to hold the Lllamados at bay.

Rafael Marquez KO's Israel Vasquez

Coming from a 1-2 deficit of their fierce battles in the past, Rafael Marquez won't back down with this one coming out with a vengeance and scored a knockout in the third round over Israel Vasquez. Right from the very start, Marquez was superb and good at all ends, dominating at the inside and outside and hitting Vasquez with accurate timing and combinations. With the win, Marquez tied their overall matchup with 2 apiece. This could be the last and final fight between this two Mexican warriors.

Game 3 an Easy Win For the Boston Celtics

It was when the Celtics build a 17 point lead and JJ Reddick threw an errand pass to Michael Pietrus that was deflected in the backcourt. Chasing down to the ball is Jason Williams of the Magic unaware of Rajon Rondo's pursuit of the ball. Williams pick the ball but Rondo dove for the ball and making a spectacular play on getting the ball on Williams' hands, dribbled it and went on for the layup. This hustle play summarizes the game that the C's wanted more than the Magic. Hustling, putting defensive plays, Perkins' impeccable defense on Howard, harassing the outside shooters and the will to win was the game that the Celtics played. They were superb and impressive with the way they controlled the game. The Magic was nowhere to be found and made a disappearing act in this game with Howard scoring just 7 points, as the Celtics cruised to a win on game 3, 94-71 and are four quarters away of entering into the NBA finals again.

Lakers Down Suns in Game 2

It was not a mystery for the Suns that they will have a hard time competing the defending champs. The effort they give is one step backward than what the Lakers showed. Kobe Bryant and company used their height and depth to subdue the Phoenix Suns, 124-112. Pau Gasol, using his height advantage over the Phoenix Suns big men had a game high 29 points while Lamar Odom and Ron Artest had 18 and 17 points respectively. The bench also contributed for the Lakers with Jordan Farmar scoring 11 points and was instrumental in the fourth quarter with a three pointer at the start of the fourth and a steal that change the momentum of the game in favor of the Lakers. Kobe Bryant provided the key role with 21 points and dishing out 13 assists, a playoff career high. While the Los Angeles Lakers were impressive, the Phoenix Suns could not find the answer that they needed. Steve Nash pt up a decent showing again with 15 assists but had only 11 points into his name. It was Jason Richardson who was the sparked in this game, scored 27 points on 10-for-17 shooting. Grant Hill was also superb with 23 points. The series shifts to Phoenix in Game 3 where the Suns hoping to win.

Celtics Take a Commanding 2-0 Series Lead

Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo combined for 53 points leading the Boston Celtics with an all-important win in game 2, 95-92. Pierce had 17 of his 28 points in the first half that saw the C's build an 11 point lead in the first quarter with 23-12 on Pierce 3 pointer. But Orlando responded with a 16-2 run to take the lead on JJ Redick's 3 pointer. It was a tight match from then on the first half with the Celtics leading by only 2 points 53-51. In the third quarter, the Celtics responded a run on their own leading by as much as 10 points, 70-60. But Orlando surge a series of rallies and taste the lead once more on Carter's jumper making its a 90-89 count. But Kevin Garnett replied with a jumper on his own. With the Celtics leading 93-92, Pierce was fouled attempting a jumper and made the two charities making it 95-92. In the next play, Carter was fouled while getting to the hoop. But Carter missed the 2 fouled shots given. The Orlando magic has another chance of sending the game into overtime but Jameer Nelson's long 3 pointer at the buzzer fell short. Dwight Howard was superb in this game scoring 30 points while Vince Carter and JJ Reddick had 16 points apiece for the Magic.

Amir Khan too Good for Malignaggi

Welcome to America! The King Khan is here. With Freddie Roach as his trainer and Alex Ariza as his conditioning coach, Amir Khan has no problem disposing off "The Magic Man". Pauli Malignaggi was nowhere to be found with Khan dominating the fight from start to finish before referee Steve Smoger stopped the fight awarding the TKO victory for Khan. Amir Khan could end up facing the mandatory challenger Marcos Maidana of Argentina in the next fight.

Lakers Rout Suns behind Kobe's 40

The Los Angeles Lakers was too much coming away with an impressive win 128-107. Kobe Bryant lead the Lakers with a game high 40 points, his 6th straight 30+ points in the playoffs and scoring 21 points in the third quarter run.. Lamar Odom was good in this one scoring 19 points and grabbing 19 rebounds, a playoff career high. The game was tight in the first quarter with the Suns grabbing a 5 points lead, 20-15 after a 3-pointer by Jason Richardson. But that that was all they have got as the Lakers put on a gallant display and hot-shooting to lead by as much as 26 points in the fourth quarter. Amare Stoudemire leads the Suns with 23 points Steve Nash added 13 points and 13 assists. Robin Lopez was the only bright spot for the Suns with 14 points and 6 rebounds.

Celtics Hand Magic First Loss in Playoffs

The Boston Celtics brought the Magic back down to earth as they won 92-88 . It was a statement win for the Celtics after the Magic went on a 14 game winning straight bridging from the regular season and the playoffs. They won 8 straight in the playoffs with most of the games won by a very large number. But now the challenge has been issued by the Celtics as they are a formidable opponent by the Magic in the playoffs. Paul Pierce and Ray Allen combined for 47 points to lead the Celtics and Rasheed Wallace also making a big contribution scoring 13 points. Allen scored 25 points and Pierce added 22 points needing only 8 shots. The Celtics were superb throughout the game, leading by as much as 20 points,thus, making defensive stops when the Magic made a rally in the third and fourth quarter. Vince Carter lead the Magic with 23 points and Dwight Howard saddled by foul trouble in most part of the game, scored 13 points, grabbed 12 rebounds but had 7 turnovers.

What's Next for Lebron?

The loss from the hands off the Boston Celtics sends Lebron James cut short again on his bid to win the NBA Championship. After many years of disappointments in the playoffs and in the finals, James could exercise his options on what to do 2 months from now. He will be a free agent after all. A big free agent that all the other teams like to sign with. There are teams like Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets, LA Clippers, Miami Heat and all teams eying for Lebron James in this year's offseason. Re-signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers is also one of the many options that Lebron should consider. There are also reports that he could end up with the Oklahoma City Thunder joining Kevin Durant. But all this reports are all fact only, it all goes down depending on the decision that Lebron James will make in his future plans.

For me, Lebron James could end up teaming with either Dwyane Wade , Chris Bosh or even Amare Stoudemire. It looks uncertain on what team they might be teammates. He has so many options and I could not wait for the his new updates and his future plans in the NBA.

PBA Lifted the Suspension on Wynne Arboleda

After a heated argument with a fan and kicking that person in a game against the Smart Gilas team last October 16, 2009 that lead to his suspension, the PBA has seen the proactive engagement of Wynne Arboleda to project a good impression to the public by rendering services to the community. The said suspension was lifted and cut short by the PBA but Arboleda has to pay the 10% gross of his monthly income from May 15 to August 15 2010, the period remaining on his suspension penalty had it been served in full. He is expected to officially rejoin his team in an out-of-town game in Panabo City, with the Air 21 Express tries to halt its losing streak of 6 games.

Williams, Reyes Help Talk N Text Win 6th Straight

Newly acquired players from the Sta Lucia Realty, Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes put a gallant effort as they contributed right away, drubbing off the Coca Cola Tigers 103-93. Williams came from the bench and played for 24 minutes scoring 13 points on 5-of-10 shooting and Reyes had all of his 5 points in the fourth quarter, stopping the rally set by the Coca Cola Tigers in the fourth. After seeing their lead trimmed down to three points, Reyes scored in transition and finishing it with a 3-point play, giving the Tropang Texters lead for good, 90-82. Shawn Daniels leads the Tropang Texters with 23 points and 17 rebounds while Mac Cardona added 20 points, 12 coming from the third quarter. Gary David had 21 points for the Tigers, losers of five straight. New Coca Cola import, Rashad Bell, playing in place of James Penny, had only 18 points to show.

Garnett Carries Celtics Eliminate Cavaliers

"Our Season Never Ends here, We can be excited in one night, winning one game, winning a season, but that's not going to be our season. Our goal is to win the championship", a statement from Paul Pierce of the Boston Celtics after eliminating the Cleveland Cavaliers in the playoffs. He make up from his playoff series slump in the series with an impressive game 5 and a decent game 6 performance. Nobody expected this to happen for the Boston Celtics after such a roller coaster ride in the regular season. But that was forgettable and now they are back into contention, a different team from the regular season and a similar team that won the championship two years ago.

Kevin Garnett, remains to be the puzzle unsolved by the Cavaliers, leads the go-ahead win for the Boston Celtics, ending up the championship hopes of Lebron James. Garnett scored 22 points and 12 rebounds while Rajon Rondo added 21 points and 12 assists as the Celtics finished the Cavaliers, 94-85. Lebron James falls short once again for his dreamed NBA Championship but was spectacular with this one. He makes up in his game 5 disappearing act performance, having a standout, triple-double performance of 27 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists but had 9 turnovers. He keeps fighting back but only to fall short off the Celtics run in the 4th quarter. This could be the end of Lebron James suiting up with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He could be traded in the off-season. But for the Boston Celtics, the challenge has now been announced and will be facing the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Talk N Text Acquired Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes

After many weeks of conversation and trade humors, the trade has now been done between Sta Lucia Realtors and the Talk N Text. The Barako Energy Coffee first traded Ogie Menor to Talk N Text for a future secound round pick in the 2010 Annual Draft. Then the Realtors and the Tropang Texters made an agreement.The Realtors give up its marquee players of Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes for Ali Peek, Nic Belasco, Pong Escobal and Ogie Menor. It was a big loss for the Realtors as they have to play against any team in the league without their key players, as the teary-eyed team Sta Lucia team manager Buddy Encarnado accepts it with a heavy heart. However, this trade serves as for the benefit of the RP team with Rajko Toroman badly wants the services of Kelly Williams. The Serbian coach is also eying Ryan Reyes and Jared Dillinger to the RP team. All of these three key players are in the Talk N Text team and might be pulled in with the RP team in quite sometime now.

Later after that trade, another three-team trade involving the same teams, with Barako Energy Coffee giving up Yousif Aljamal for Sta Lucia's Charles Waters. But Waters was then dealt by the Coffee Masters in exchange for Talk N Text Mark Isip.

Boston Celtics Take Commanding lead 3-2

Paul Pierce came back from a miserable performance in the series, helping the Boston Celtics rout the top seed Cleveland Cavaliers, 120-88. The first half was tight until the Celtics went on a run in the third quarter leading by as much as 21 points. Ray Allen carried the Celtics with 25 points, Pierce made his presence felt after struggling in the series had 21 points and 11 rebounds for the C's. Kevin Garnett also made a big impact in the game scoring for 18 points to complete the Big 3 that once capture the NBA Championship in 2008. Rajon Rondo was his usual self finishing with 16 points and 7 dimes while Glen Davis was monster on the post scoring 15 points. The loss was a disappointment for the top seeded Cavs with Lebron James slowing down and the rest of the Cavs struggling. James had only 15 points on 3-of-14 shooting, including that zero field goals in the first half. Antawn Jamison, the player acquired form Washington to help the Cavs, had only 9 points to show. The only bright spot for the Cavs is the performance by the "Big Diesel" Shaquille O'Neal making his presence felt in the paint scoring 21 points on 7-of-11 shooting. Boston Celtics will try to end the series at home on Thursday night.

Lakers Sweep Jazz, will face Suns

The defending champs are too much to handle for the Utah Jazz as the Lakers advance to the Western conference finals with an impressive win 111-96. Pau Gasol had a stellar performance coming away with 33 points and 14 rebound while Kobe Bryant added 32 points, his 4th straight 30point-plus effort in the series. Right from the very start the Lakers had the game on their hands and leading by as much as 19 points at the first half, 53-34 until the Utah Jazz made a comeback anchored by Deron Williams in the 3rd quarter. The deficit was down by 5 points at some points in the third quarter. But the Lakers are not to be denied, playing well in the 4th quarter and pulling the game out of reach. Deron Williams finished with 21 points and 9 assists for the Jazz,beaten by the Los Angeles Lakers in their playoff series in the recent years. The Los Angleles Lakers will now face the multi-talented Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference finals.

In Other Playoff Games:

Th Orlando Magic used their magical touch, wins in a dominating fashion against the Atlanta Hawks 98-84 and continued their unblemished record in the playoffs winning eight in a row. Vince Carter leads the Orlando Magic with 22 points.

Suns Scorch Spurs, Enters Conference Finals

After being cut and playing with a swollen right eye, it did not stop Steve Nash to take over and orchestrate timely plays in the stretch. His leadership put up a gallant show for the Suns scorching the Spurs for a masterful victory, 107-101. Amare Stoudemire leads the Suns with 29 points and Nash finished with 20 points and 9 assists, 10 points and 5 assists in the fourth quarter alone. The Spurs trailed by 11 in the third quarter until Steve Nash was hit by a wayward elbow from Tim Duncan. The Spurs used to that advantage and cut the deficit and even lead the Suns. But Nash return in the fourth quarter making a go-ahead 3 pointer to make it 80-77 and a clutch 3-point play minutes later. The Spurs would try to come back but Jason Richardson made the buzzer beating 3 pointer, leading 99-89. But the Spurs fought back to trim the deficit down to 2 points on a 4-point play by George Hill. But Grant Hill was fouled and sank the pressure-pack two free throws and Ginobili missed a 3 pointer in the next play. The Suns will play the Lakers in the western conference finals.

Defending Champs Outlasts the Jazz

There are key reasons why the Los Angeles Lakers signed up Derick Fisher from the Utah Jazz 3 years ago, the player stepping up in the pressure as the Lakers win in a closed game 111-110. Fisher hit the crucial 3-pointer, 28.6 seconds in the fourth quarter that saw the Lakers claim back the lead 109-108. In the ensuing play, the Jazz could possible take the lead but Wes Matthews missed the three point attempt and Carlos Boozer takes the rebound but was clobbered on his undergoal attempt. Kobe Bryant sank the 2 free throws in the next play to make it 111-108. The Jazz has the chance to tie it but the Lakers used their foul sending Williams to the free throw line. William made the two free throws. The Lakers could bagged the victory but Ron Artest made an errand pass to Fisher. The Jazz has the last chance to win it but Deron Williams missed a jumpshot at the top of the key and West Matthews tipped in missed at the buzzer. Kobe Bryant lead the Lakers with 35 points and Derick Fisher and Ron Artest added 20 apiece while Pau Gasol had 14 points and 17 rebounds. Deron Williams had 28 points and Kyle Korver added 23 points off the bench for the Utah Jazz.

In the Other Playoff Game:

The Orlando Magic prove too much for the Atlanta Hawks, as they used a 17-7 run closing the first quarter for a 28-18 lead and never looked back. Rashard Lewis lead the Magic with 22 points and Dwight Howard added 21 points and 16 rebounds.

Phoenix Suns Make it 2 in a Row

Nobody expected this to happen for the Spurs after giving the 2nd seeded Dallas Mavericks a hard time, the 3rd-seeded Phoenix Suns has one thing in mind beating the San Antonio Spurs 3 games in a row. Trailing for 72-71 going to the fourth quarter, the Suns were convince to use a great run in the fourth quarter with unexpected hero Goran Dragic scoring 23 of his 26 point second half explosion in the 4th quarter. He was phenomenal by scoring more than half of his team's 39 points in the 4th, leading the Suns just a one step forward to the Western conference finals, 110-96 over the San Antonio Spurs. The Phoenix looks like giving this game to the Spurs trailing by as much as 18 points. But they clawed their way to cut the deficit little by little. Steve Nash could have played more than 38-minutes with this one that could possbibly make him slower with his back problems. Enters Goran Dragic into the game in the latter part of the 3rd quarter and starting the 4th quarter with Nash n the bench. He was then impressive, hitting shots after shots in the 4th, thus, extending Nash take the bench for a needed rest. He scored 23 points in a quarter that Charles Barkley once achieved against the Spurs. Manu Ginobili leads the Spurs with 27 points but is not enough to overcome Dragic's heroics. In other NBA playoff games, Cavs demolish the Celtics..

Cavaliers Hand Celtics with a 29-point Blowout

The Cleveland Cavaliers, fresh from the Game 2 loss, came back with a vengeance and playing with superiority, had game 3 bagged. They were successful with this one scoring with 124-95 win over the Boston Celtics. It was the attacking mode of James in the first half that broke the game wide open. Lebron James was as impressive with this one, scoring 38 points on top of 8 rebounds and dishing out 7 assists. Rajon Rondo, playing at its best in the first two games was uncomfortable, with the Cavs pressuring him off and on the ball with Anthony Parker putting up his gallant stance off Rondo. The C's were nowher to be found as Paul Pierce continuously struggling in the series making just 11 points and Ray Allen was absent scoring just 7 points.

Orlando Magic Soars Past the Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta hawks made their presence felt making the game closed until the Orlando Magic made their big 3's in the fourth quarter that capped a 19-2 run turning the game wide open, prevailing game 2 of their series, 112-98. The Hawks, after a 43-point loss in Game 1, is impressive with this game by making 6 of 7 three point shots, 25 of their free throws and outrebounding the Magic 32-22. Still, they were down by one at the end of the 3rd quarter thanks to the buzzer-beating 3 pointer by Jameer Nelson. It was a momentum shift of the game as teh magic carried that buzzer beater with a big lead of their own leading by as much as 15 points in the 4th quarter. Dwight Howard, after a bloodied nose from the start of the third quarter was impressive with this one scoring 27 points and grabbing 17 caroms. Vince Carter, showed what he can do, playing one of his best game in the playoffs, scoring 24 points while Jameer Nelson and Michael Pietrus contributed 2o points apiece for the Magic. The Atlanta Hawks was good in this game but came up short with Al Horford leading the Hawks with 24 points on top of 10 rebounds and the 6th Man of the Year Jamal Crawford added 24 points. The Atlanta Hawks will try to rebound in Game 3 of their series at their homecourt.

Los Suns Won Two in a Row

The Phoenix Suns, wearing an orange Los Suns jersey in part to protest Arizona's new anti-immigration law, beat the San Antonio Spurs 110-102. Six players scored double digits for the Suns with Amare Stoudemire leading the team with 23 points and 15 rebounds , Channing Frye made 5-0f-6 from three point range for 15 points, Steve Nash and Jason Richardson 19 apiece, Grant Hill (18 points) and Jared Dudley (11 points). It was a bitter loss for the Spurs as they were up by 9 points to end the 1st quarter and then hold on to tie the game at halftime 51 apiece. The game is tight after halftime, but the Phoenix Suns hit the game wide open with a barrage of threes at the endgme. The Suns were 1 of 7 from long range but finished the game making 8 of their last 12 three point attempts.

Tim Duncan has 29 points and 10 rebounds and Tony Parker added 2o points for the Spurs who will shift the series back to their homecourt, thus, facing a must-win situation to avoid a 0-3 hole.

Bynum Powers Lakers Over the Jazz

Suffering from a meniscus injury, Andrew Bynum came away with his best playoff performance of his illustrious career scoring 17 points grabbing 14 rebounds (playoff career high) and 4 blocked shots in 29 minutes of action. The 7 foot center was aggressive right from the start of the game making some uncontested post moves in the paint against the 6 foot 9 Carlos Boozer. It was another good game for the Utah Jazz but it came short as the Lakers had a run on their own to gain the upper hand. Kobe Bryant had his 3rd straight 30 points or more points in the playoffs, scoring a game-high 30 points while Pau Gasol had 22 points and 15 rebounds, Lamar Odom chipped in with 11 points and 15 rebounds, his first double-double of this postseason and Ron Artest added 16 points. Utah came back from large deficits in the first half but still trailing 12 at halftime,46-58. They have chance to close the game after trimming the lead by 4 points in the 4th quarter but Kobe Bryant once again came to the rescue to help the Lakers lead for good. Paul Millsap is teh lone bright spot for the Jazz scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Carlos Boozer and CJ Miles had 20 points apiece. Deron Williams, after averaging 25.8 points in the first round, continues to struggle scoring for only 15 points (postseason low) but had 9 assists. He missed 12 of 16 shots. The Utah Jazz will try to win at home, where they are always successful against the Lakers on Game three's over the years.

In other Semifinal Playoff Game:

The well-rested Orlando Magic bulldoze their way to a victory against the lowly Atlanta Hawks 114-71. Dwight Howard had a dominant game for the Magic finished with 21 points 12 rebounds and 5 swats. The Atlanta Hawks had their fight in the first quarter but came flat from then on, trailing the Magic by 48 points at one point. Josh Smith had 14 points to lead the Hawks.

Phoenix Suns Wins Game One

After four stringing losses in Game 1 over the years, the Phoenix Suns found the antidote to win game 1 of this years playoff series against the San Antonio Spurs. Steve Nash and company held their ground on every Spurs' rally in the 3rd and 4th quarter, winning 111-102 to take a 1-0 series lead. Nash leads Phoenix with 33 points and 10 assists while Jason Richardson, that could be the missing factor of the Suns matchup against the Spurs in so many years, added 27 points and Amare Stoudemire had 23 points and 13 rebounds for the Suns. The Spurs made spirited comebacks down the stretch but Suns held their own as they managed to withstood every Spurs challenge. Manu Ginobili, playing with a broken nose, lead the Spurs with 27 points, Tony Parker had 26 while Tim Duncan added 20 points, who will try to bounce back in game 2.

Rajon Rondo Carried Celtics over Cavs

The starting pointguard of his team, Rajon Rondo issued 19 dimes to lead his team to a victory over the top seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, 104-86 that tied the series 1-1. It was a see-saw battle in the first half with the Boston Celtics lead by only 4. Rondo has 12 of his 19 assists in the first half. Ray Allen squandered for 17 big points in the third quarter outscoring the entire Cavaliers 17-12 by himself. After taking the lead for good to start in the fourth quarter 91-66, the Cavaliers stormed back, used a 15-0 run and pulled within 10 points on a basket by Lebron James 93-83. Boston, though closed out the game with an 11-3 run. Ray Allen lead the C's with 22 points while Garnett had 18 points and Rasheed Wallace, coming up from his scoring slump added 17 points. Lebron James, who was officially awarded as the Season MVP before tip-off scored 24 points while Antawn Jamison added 16 points and JJ Hickson contributed much of their comeback bid in the fourth, scoring 13 points. Game 3 will shift to Boston.

Lakers Wins Game 1

The Los Angeles Lakers, behind the rejuvenated Kobe Bryant, won over their archival Utah Jazz 104-99 in game 1 of the Western semifinal series. Kobe Bryant made clutch baskets down the stretch scoring 10 of his team's final 14 points. Bryant finished with 31 points, his first back-to back 30 point-game after one long month. Pau Gasol added 25 points, 12 rebounds and five block shots. Utah Jazz collapsed in the endgame after leading by as much as 4 points in the final minutes of the fourth quarter. Kobe Bryant did most of the damage and Lamar Odom made a putback that saw their lead back to three, 98-95 before Bryant took charge again abusing Wes Matthews defense down the stretch. The Utah Jazz were led by Deron Williams scoring 24 points with 8 assists and Carlos Boozer's 18 points, 12 rebounds.The Los Angeles Lakers aims to win Game 2 for a 2-0 lead.

Lebron James Wins 2009-2010 Season MVP

The MVP goes to Lebron James. It is Lebron, not Kobe Bryant, not Kevin Durant and not Dwight Howard. Averaging in this season with 29.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 8.6 assists, Lebron james deserves to win the 2009-2010 KIA MVP Award. He is an all around MVP-like player, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers with a 61-21 record this season. He receive the award, together with his family, mother and his teammates in the University of Akron, praising his mom and giving special message to his girlfriend Savannah and to his two kids, Lebron Jr. and Bryce.

James is the 10th player in the NBA to win back-to-back MVP awards joining Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Moses Malone, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan and Steve Nash. He is the runaway winner for this year's award receiving 116 out of the 123 possible first place votes with Kevin Durant picks four votes and Dwight Howard's 3. James finished with 1205 points nearly doubling second place Kevin Durant of 609. Kobe Bryant was third.

Lebron's 35 Carried Cavaliers over Celtics

Playing with a sprained and bruised right elbow could not stop Lebron James to score 35 points grabbed 7 rebound and issued 7 assists as the Cleveland Cavaliers storm back for a 101-93 victory over the Boston Celtics in Game one of their 2nd round series. It was good for the Celtics right from the start of the game leading by 11 in halftime 54-43. In the third quarter, the Celtics managed to maintain their lead on a three pointer by Ray Allen 69-58 until Mo Williams of the Cavs started to catch fire scoring 14 of his 20 points in the 3rd quarter and Lebron James sizzles with a lot of highlight moves. The Cavs regain the lead in the fourth quarter and never looked backed, capped with the 3-pointer by Lebron James in the dying seconds 101-93. Rajon Rondo is spectacular in this game scoring 27 points and registering 12 dimes while Kevin Garnett added 18 points and 10 rebounds for the C's.

Mayweather too Quick For Mosley

This was one of the fights that I find it boring. It was a lopsided fight in favor of Mayweather. Mosley has his own share in the 2nd round but it was all that he can account of, as Mayweather started to switch back to a boxer style and establishing full dominance from then on. Speed was the name of the game by Mayweather as he repeatedly tagged Mosley with right straights and left hooks on his way to a unanimous decision with two judges scoring the bout 119-109 and the third judge scored it 118-110 for Mayweather. Mosley looks too tired in the fight and not making some headways in the match. He was contented to become a counter puncher. And, Mayweather initiates the fight. Mayweather deserves to win that fight and might have a possible boxing showdown with Manny Pacquiao this year.

Gasol Wins it For Lakers

The fairy tale playoff experience by the Oklahoma City Thunder ends as Pau Gasol scored on a putback off Kobe Bryant's jumper with .5 seconds left. The desperation 3 point attempt by Westbrook was short, paving the victory to the defending champs advancing in the second round of the playoffs facing an old foe Utah Jazz.

It was not an easy game for the Lakers as the Thunder storming back and forth in the game and hanging tough, leads the game over the Lakers, 94-91 on a driving lay-up by Kevin Durant. But Kobe Bryant made a contested, long jumper in the next play with 2:11 left in the game. It was an all missed shots between the teams after, setting up for the heroics of Pau Gasol. It was 17 seconds left and the Lakers watching a one-point deficit. Near endgame, WHO ELSE! Kobe Bryant has the ball, dribbling upcourt and driving past Westbrook and pulling up a 13-foot jumper only to miss but Gasol was there for a putback with .5 seconds remaining. That was only the 2-pointer by Gasol in the enire second half finishing with only 9 points but grabbing 18 rebounds. Kobe Bryant has an impressive night with 32 points. It was a sorry loss for the Thunder with Kevin Durant leading the charge with 26 points, going just 5-of-23 from the field while Westbrook finish with 21 points on top of 5 rebounds, 9 assists and no tunrovers.

In other playoff games:

The Atlanta Hawks found the answered in game 6 with a victory over the Milwaukee Bucks 83-69. The sixth man of the years awardee, Jamal Crwaford leads the Hawks with 24 points.

Utah Jazz closes playoff series with the Nuggets, 112-104 on Wes Matthews (23 points) , Boozer's 22 points and 20 rebounds, Millsap (21 points) and Deron Williams 14 points and 10 assists.