Chairman’s Corner: Closing Remarks

Congratulations and Kudos. The Pilipino American Association of Delaware (PAAD) officers congratulate all the winners and every competitors in the 2010 PAAD Palaro. Everyone is a winner in the Palaro. By winning friends, displaying sportsmanship and competing at his or her best, one should be proud of what he or she has achieved. While not everyone holds the big trophy, the one with the big heart, with the big smile and who gave it all in the competition are winners in the eyes of the Almighty.

We also thank the generous donors in the event who made the 2010 PAAD Palaro a resounding success. The Health Care for Children in Elkton, Maryland, the Philippine Bread House, and the other generous individual donors whether in cash or in kind, are deeply appreciated and admired.

We also thank the PAAD Sports Committee members and volunteers for all their time, efforts and hard work to ensure the success of Palaro. Your help and efforts had made a lot of people happy and will truly inspire others in ensuring the continuing success of the Palaro for many years to come.

Lastly, we thank everyone for their support. By just watching the Palaro, by just being there in the event, your support are much appreciated.

Magkitakita po tayo sa 2011 PAAD Palaro. Maraming salamat po. Mabuhay po tayong lahat.

Bumabati,
Jun Rana
Chairman
PAAD Sports Committee

D8: Special Awards Winners

Following are the special awards winners in the 2010 PAAD Palaro:

Three Point Shootout Champion - Jake Cortez, Red Bull

Best Uniform – Dynamic Physical Therapy

Open Division:
Tournament MVP - Paul Nicdao, Wala Sa Ayos (WSA)
Championship Game MVP - Mario Lancioni, GK Warriors
Best Coach - Paul Micarsos, No Way

35 and Over Division:
Tournament MVP - Jim Reynolds, GK Warriors
Best Coach - D Tapel, Delaware Titans

D8: White Team wins Youth Basketball Championship

The White Team overcame an early first quarter deficit, and then pulled away in the 3rd and 4th quarters of the game to defeat the Black Team, 32-18 in the championship game of the Philippine Bread House PAAD Youth Basketball Championship. The championship game was a big treat to the fans specially to the youth, teenagers and parents or relatives of the players.

The Youth Basketball Tournament was participated by boys and girls with ages ranging from eight years old to sixteen years old. All of the boys and girls in the teams had their chances to play in the courts to the delight of the cheering fans and loved ones. A loud applause usually follows a shot which a player makes in the game, specially those made by the younger and little players in the championship.

D8: Elkton Elitz nips Delaware Dabarkads in Three Sets, 22-25, 21-19, 21-19 (Mixed Volleyball)

Elkton Elitz, the last placer in the elimination round, completed its Cinderella run with a stunning 22-25, 21-19, 21-19 victory over the favorite Delaware Dabarkads, and in the process captured the 2010 PAAD Palaro Mixed Volleyball championship. It was a sweet revenge for the Elitz who were beaten by Dabarkads in last year’s final. L’Spikers De Volleyball placed third in the competition.

The championship game however was a big treat to the wildly cheering fans of both teams as they watched the battle royal. It was a game of runs. In the last set, Elitz threatened to pull away earlier but Dabarkads tied the score at 16 all. With the game tied at 19 all, Elitz scored the final two points to win the championship and end the reign of Dabarkads.

D8: GK Warriors are Champs in 35 and Over Years Old Division, stops Titans, 55-47

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors achieved history by becoming the first 35 and Over Years Old Division champion of the PAAD basketball league with a resounding win over the Delaware Titans, 55-47 in their championship game. Dennis Balagtas with 19 points and Tony Astoveza with 11 points provided the offense while Jim Reynolds provided the rebounds and defense in the Warriors triumph.

Early on the Delaware Titans fought toe to toe with the Warriors in the first half with no teams enjoying a double digit lead. The trio of Balagtas, Astoveza and Reynolds provided the 1-2-3 punch for the Warriors while the Titans countered with the quartet of Karl Ebron, Ed Ortega, Jeorge Corotan and Willie Fontano. Ebron had two three point shots, while Ortega, Corotan and Fontano had one each. It was a tight first half with the Warriors enjoying only a one point lead at 25-24.

In the second half, the Warriors and the Titans kept the game close until halfway in the second half. At the 11th minute mark, the Warriors made their move and took advantage of the cold shooting spell of the Titans, specially from its big man, Jason Del Rosario. With Balagtas and Astoveza leading the way, several players moved in for the kill in annexing the Warriors championship crown. Ed Padilla (Baltimore Dragons Coach) who plays for the Warriors, made his contribution through clutch free throw shooting while Felix Vergara and Sonny De La Torre hit a crucial three point shot as the Warriors built an insurmountable 8 point lead with half a minute remaining in the game. It was a lead which they preserved until the end of the final buzzer.

Big man Jim Reynolds, who provided the muscles in the boards and who anchored the defense of the Warriors was adjudged as the Division’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). It was a sweet win for the Warriors against a team which provided them with all they could handle and a good battle for the championship. For the Titans, the basketball gods were not on their side as they missed several easy baskets and crucial free throws down the stretch. A basket here and there could have swung the momentum in the Titans way. The Warriors proved steadier at the end to seal their first ever 35 and Over Years Old Division crown to the delight of their adoring cheering fans.

Box Scores:
55 – GK Warriors: Dennis Balagtas, 19; Tony Astoveza, 11; Felix Vergara, 7; Jim Reynolds, 6; Sonny De La Torre, 5; Ed Padilla, 5; Nestor San Diego, 2

47 – Delaware Titans: Karl Ebron, 11; Ed Ortega, 9; Jeorge Corotan, 9; D Tapel, 4; Joel Villamor, 3; Egui Alafriz, 3; Willie Fontano, 3; Jason Del Rosario, 3; Arnel Lalicon, 2

D8: GK Warriors Three Peats, rips Dragons, 85-57 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors, with its strongest team yet in the history of the league, achieved a historic three peat by beating the Baltimore Dragons, 85-57 in the championship game of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD basketball tournament. Mario Lancioni who top scored with 30 points in the game was adjudged as the championship Most Valuable Player (MVP). The win preserved the unbeaten streak of the Warriors dating back to the 2008 PAAD Palaro.

The Warriors however were made to sweat in the first half as the Dragons gave them a scare in the early going. With RJ Buzon connecting on his rainbow shots, the Dragons led by as much as six points after 10 minutes of play in the first half. Coach Ed Padilla of the Dragons appeared to pull a rabbit out of his hat early on. However, the Warriors running game came into perfection as they erased the deficit and spurted into a 45-38 halftime lead. Mario Lancioni’s 17 points along with brother Santini Lancioni’s 9 points and Dustin Coloso’s 7 points in the first half provided to be decisive in overhauling the Dragons early advantage. It was the first time however that the Warriors were threatened by a team who could match their shooting prowess in the early going. Buzon had four triples for the Dragons in the first half.

In the second half however, playing Coach Herb Monsalud stressed defense to his Warrior’s team. And as the Warriors tightened their defense and prevented the three point shots of the Dragons, they slowly built a double digit lead. It was once again Mario Lancioni who provided the offensive spark with a barrage of three point shooting that doused the hopes of the Dragons. Mario’s three rainbow shots along with the superb play making of Leo Yanogacio, Santini Lancioni, Coloso and Yogi Veranga proved too much for the Dragons, as the Warriors built a 20 point cushion with about 5 minutes to go in the game. And with their cheering fans, the Warriors further padded the lead to 28 at the final buzzer, winning 85-57.

In the end, it was the depth of the Warriors lineup that carried them to victory as majority of their players are scoring threats. In the second half, the Dragons became weary and could not kept up with the fast paced game of the Warriors. And for Coach Monsalud, Team Manager Doc Mel Madarang and their players, a dynasty similar to the Celtics, Lakers and the Bulls in the NBA is possibly in the horizon.
Prior to the championship game, the Warriors clobbered Dynamics, 139-78, and the Dragons defeated No Way, 55-42 in their respective semifinal matches.

Box Scores:
85 – GK Warriors: Mario Lancioni, 30 ; Santini Lancioni, 15; Dustin Coloso; 12; Yogi Veranga, 8; Leo Yanogacio, 8; Curtis Clemente, 4; Ian Clemente, 3; Ryan De Guzman, 3; Herb Monsalud, 2

57 – Baltimore Dragons: RJ Buzon, 16; Frank Concepcion, 12; Sebastian Cabrera, 11; Souk Gumatay, 6; Julio Concepcion, 6; Anthony Curtiz, 4; Jake Cortez, 2

Chairman's Corner: 2010 PAAD Palaro Final Day Results (August 14, 2010)

Open Division Semi-finals
Baltimore Dragons defeats No Way, 55-42
GK Warriors defeats Dynamic, 139-78

Open Division Championship
GK Warriors defeats Baltimore Dragons, 85-57

35 and Over Division Championship
GK Warriors defeats Delaware Titans, 55-47

Youth Basketball Championship
White Team defeats Black Team, 32-18

Mixed Volleyball Championship
Elkton Elitz defeats Delaware Dabarkads, 22-25, 21-19, 21-19

Three Point Shootout Championship
Jake Cortez of Red Bull won the championship with 16 points, over Noel Borres and Luis Alvarez of the Delaware Titans in the final shootout

Special Awards:

Open Division
Tournament MVP - Paul Nicdao, WSA
Championship Game MVP - Mario Lancioni, GK Warriors
Best Coach - Paul Micarsos, No Way

35 and Over Division:
Tournament MVP - Jim Reynolds, GK Warriors
Best Coach - D Tapel, Delaware Titans

Best Uniform – Dynamic Physical Therapy

D7: Elkton Elitz nips L’Spikers, 14-21, 21-16, 21-19, to enter finals (Mixed Volleyball)

By Jun Rana

After 3 gruelling sets, the Elkton Elitz subdued L’Spikers de Volleyball (HWBCI), 14-21, 21-16 and 21-19 in the knockout match for a spot in the Mixed Volleyball Final on August 14. With the win, the Elitz advanced to the finals where they will meet archrival Delaware Dabarkads.

Dabarkads and Elitz met in last year’s finals and had a thrilling match won by Dabarkads. Now, with the Elitz reinforced by players from Pennsylvania, the final match against the Dabarkads on August 14 will be an intriguing and thrilling matchup of equally competitive teams. May the best team win.

D7: Delaware Titans Enters Finals, Sinks No Way, 58-40 (35 and Over Division)

By Jun Rana

The Delaware Titans, playing inspired basketball, put their game together superbly in the second half to defeat No Way, 58-40 in their knockout match for a seat in the championship of the 35 and Over Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro. With the win, the Titans will meet the GK Warriors in the championship game on August 14.

Before the game, the Titans team captain, Ed Ortega, stressed that it's a win or go home game and he doesn't want to go home. No Way, led by El Persons, took the early lead at 11-6 in the first half. However, the Titans, led by Jeorge Corotan, tied the game at 16-all. At this juncture, Jason Del Rosario, converted a three point shot and Jomar Ugarte added two free throws to gave the Titans a 21-16 lead, time down to four minutes in the first half.

Persons and Marlowe Ulit answered back for No Way to cut the lead of the Titans to 2, at 24-22. That last basket of the Titans before half-time was a three point shot by Karl Ebron. It was also a battle of the cheering fans of the Titans and No Way, especially during the closing minutes of the first half.

In the second half, the Titans then played better defense, better ball movement and fluid offense. Led by Del Rosario, Ed Ortega, Joneil Garcia, Luis Alvarez, Joel Villamor and Ramon Agui, the Titans went on an 18-6 scoring binge to pad their lead to 14, at 42-28, midway in the second half. Villamor, Ortega and Alvarez had one triple each during that span, while Del Rosario provided the muscles inside the shaded area. It was the spurt that the Titans needed, as they were able to resist the counter attack of No Way led by Ulit, Persons and Jay Lizardo.

The closest that No Way was able to reduce the deficit was by 11, when they were trailing 51-40, with 1 minute and 18 seconds remaining. At that point however, it was all over as No Way could not buy a basket while the Titans continued to hit their shots, especially at the free throw line.

Villamor put an exclamation point on the Titans victory with a last second 3-point shot vindicating himself for his missed game-winning basket during their first meeting with No Way. And after the dust of the battle cleared, the Titans emerged victorious, 58-40.

It was a sweet win for the Titans who will battle for the championship against the GK Warriors on Saturday, August 14. After several years of not being in the finals, the Titans will relish the rare opportunity to become a champion once again.

Box Scores:

58 – Delaware Titans: Jason Del Rosario, 14; Ed Ortega, 12; Jeorge Corotan, 9; Ramon Agui, 6; Karl Ebron, 5; Luis Alvarez 3; Joneil Garcia, 3; Joel Villamor, 3; Jomar Ugarte, 2; Willie Fontano, 1

40 – No Way: El Persons, 13; Marlowe Ulit, 13; Jay Lizardo, 6; Mike Vergara, 3; Norman Aquino, 2; Ramil Magpantay, 2, Riki Makasakit, 1

D7: Dynamic Wins by Default Over Red Bulls, Enters Semifinals (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Dynamic Physical Therapy won by default over Red Bulls in Day 7 of Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the third win by Dynamic against three losses. With the win, Dynamic entered the semifinals of the 2010 PAAD Palaro which will be played on August 14.

Red Bulls, a semifinalist last year, was a no show during the game and as a result, it placed last among the 7 teams in the Open Division with a 1-7 win-loss record. For Dynamic, this will be the second straight year that they will be playing in the semifinals.

D7: GK Warriors Sweeps Elimination Round, tops Baltimore, 81-57 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors, starring brothers Mario and Santini Lancioni who scored 41 points, disposed of the Baltimore Dragons, 81-57 to sweep the elimination round of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament with their sixth straight win in as many outings. The win gave the Warriors the number one seed in the four-team semifinals which be played on August 14. Despite the loss, the Dragons hanged on as the second ranked team in the elimination round, and also qualified for the semifinals with a 4-2 win-loss record.

The Warriors were off to a fast start, leading 19-11 in the early goings In the first half. And as the match progressed, the Lancioni brothers barrage of 3 point shot artilleries (4 by Mario and 3 by Santini) overwhelmed the Dragons as the Warriors roared to a 37-20 lead at halftime. The Dragons were led by RJ Buzon who had 10 points (including 2 triples) at halftime .

Earlier in the second half, the Dragons led by Souk Gumatay engineered a 6-0 run to reduce the lead by the Warriors to 11 at 37-26. However, Leo Yanogacio of the Warriors, who is known more for his inside plays, pushed the lead back of the Warriors to 14 with a three point shot , still with 19 minutes remaining in the game. However, the Warriors did not let up on the attack after that point. This time, Dennis Balagtas and Dustin Coloso joined the Lancioni brothers in the scoring chores to repulse any of the Dragons threat. For the Dragons, Gumatay and Buzon were helped by Paco Estrada, Frank Concepcion and Julio Concepcion.

The Warriors and the Dragons had 6 three point shots each in the second half. However, the Dragons were not able to put a clamp or a stop on the Warriors armory of excellent shooters, as virtually every player is a scoring threat. And with its much deeper lineup, the Warriors were able to push to lead to 24 at the end of the game, 81-57.

For Coach Herb Monsalud and his charges, the Warriors are looking invincible and a three peat championship is very well within reach. And a talk of the GK Warriors dynasty is in the offing. It will take a perfect game from the Dragons, No Way or Dynamic if those teams want to win against the Warriors. That perfect game is like a perfect 300 score in bowling – which is very rare but can be done.

Box Scores:

81 – GK Warriors: Mario Lancioni, 23; Santini Lancioni, 18; Dennis Balagtas, 10; Dustin Coloso, 8; Ian Clemente, 7; Leo Yanogacio, 5, Coco Clemente, 4; Curtis Clemente, 3; Ryan De Guzman, 2; Herb Monsalud, 1

57 – Baltimore: RJ Buzon, 16; Souk Gumatay, 12; Frank Concepcion, 12; Paco Estrada, 8; Julio Concepcion, 6; Jackie Brosoto, 3

D7: No Way Upsets WSA, 71-70 on Setters’ Free Throw (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

With the game tied and no time left on the clock, Dave Setters nailed his second free throw in front of his team’s jubilant cheering fans, to lift No Way to a pulsating 71-70 win over Wala Sa Ayos (WSA) in Day 7 of Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the third win in six games for No Way, but in the process it entered the semifinals as the third ranked team based on the quotient system. It was a heart breaking loss for WSA considered by many as a shoe in for the semi-finals.

The dramatic win was also a tribute to No Way Coach Paul Micarsos impressive coaching skills. Three teams were tied from third to fifth place, namely No Way, Dynamic and WSA. Under the quotient system, No Way and Dynamic took the third and fourth semifinal spots and WSA was relegated into fifth place ranking in the tournament.

In the unique quotient system based on the points among the three teams involved in the tie, No Way’s mission before the start of the game was not only to win but to score at least 65 points. Leading by only 2 points at the half at 23-21, Coach Micarsos made an adjustment in the second half by having the team switched from the zone defense to the man to man defense. No Way then allowed MVP candidate Paul Nicdao to either shoot a three or drive to the basket, thus making the game faster. Micarsos also instructed his players not to settle for jump shots but drive the ball to the basket. The calculated risk paid off as the teams virtually exchanged basket for basket making the game a high scoring affair.

As the two teams entered the one minute remaining mark in the game, No Way had already achieved the magic number of 65, and was leading 67-61. Coach Micarsos instructed his wards to control the ball in order to win the game. At this point Dave Setters and BJ Advento were leading the No Way assault. WSA however, led by Nicdao, Armando Concepcion and Michael Alegarbes dropped a 9-3 bomb to tie the score at 70 all time down to 8 seconds. WSA’s last shot was a three point shot by Alegarbes, his first basket for the game. This set the stage for Setters’ heroics. With time down to 2 seconds, Setters drove to the lane and was fouled on the act of shooting as the time expired. Setters missed the first free throw. However, he made the next pressure packed free throw as the No Way fans jumped for joy.

Box Scores:

71 - No Way: Dave Setters, 26: BJ Advento, 24; Rudy Mallari, 11; Alex Alday, 4; Kenneth Savella, 4; Arnold Dawinan, 2

70 – Paul Nicdao, 28; Jeff Verneza, 20; Armando Concepcion, 8; Kenny Santos, 7; Roque Guerzon, 4; Michael Alegarbes, 3

Chairman's Corner: Stage is All Set for a Dramatic Final Day on Saturday, August 14 in the 2010 PAAD Palaro

Dear All,

The stage is all set for a dramatic final day of the 2010 PAAD Palaro on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at the PAL Center in Hockessin. Please be there at 9:45 AM. Hostilities start at 10:00 AM with the semi-finals of the Basketball Open Division.

Defending champion GK Warriors gun for a three-peat as they battle the fourth ranked Dynamic in Court No. 2. At this point, the Warriors are looking invincible that only Superman can give them a run for their money. Dynamic however may have other ideas in mind and can spring a delightful surprise.

Last year’s runner-up Baltimore Dragons battle Cinderella team No Way (Maricas) in the other semifinal in Court No. 1. The Dragons are the favorites but No Way is a dangerous team and should give the Dragons all they could handle.

The popular Philippine Bread House PAAD Youth Basketball Championship takes center stage at 11:00 AM with the championship game between the White Team and the Black Team.

In the Mixed Volleyball Championship at around 11:30 AM, Delaware Dabarkads and Elkton Elitz renew their intense rivalry. The Dabarkads are the defending champion and they defeated Elkton Elitz in the last year's finals.

At around 12:00 PM, we will have the 3 Point Shooting finale between defending champion Noel Borres, Jake Cortez of Red Bulls, Luis Alvarez of Delaware Titans 35 and Over Team, Sonny De La Torre and Herb Monsalud of the GK Warriors and Kenny Santos of WSA.

At around 12:30 PM, we will have the 35 Years and Over Basketball Championship between the Delaware Titans and GK Warriors, which promises to be one for the ages.

And the much awaited Open Division Championship between the winners of the two semifinal matches commence at around 2:00 PM. If the seeding holds to form, the Warriors and the Dragons will renew their great rivalry and will provide the climax to the wonderful 2010 PAAD Palaro. But the ball is round as the saying goes, and anything can happen. Closing Ceremony is scheduled at 3:00 PM.

All teams who participated will be receiving either trophies or plaques. All teams are invited and requested to have either their team managers, coaches, captains and representatives to receive their trophies or plaques.

Calling WSA, Delaware Titans Open Team, Red Bulls, No Way 35 and over and L’Spikers de Volleyball – please have your representative to receive your awards at the 3PM Closing Ceremony. So, let the championship begins.

Here is the full schedule:

Open Basketball Semifinals:
10:00 AM Baltimore Dragons vs. No Way
10:00 AM GK Warriors vs. Dynamic

Youth Championship:
11:00 AM White Team vs. Black Team

Volleyball Championship:
11:30 AM Delaware Dabarkads vs. Elkton Elitz

Three Point Shooting Contest Finals
12:00 PM Six Finalists

35 Years Old and Over Division Championship:
12:30 PM GK Warriors vs. Delaware Titans

Open Basketball Championship:
2:00 PM Semifinal 1 Winner vs. Semifinal 2 Winner

Closing Ceremony and Awarding:
3:00 PM

See you all on August 14. Good luck to all teams and to all athletes, may you deliver the greatest performance of your lives. And to all the fans, enjoy the exciting and magical moments of the 2010 PAAD Palaro.

Thank you very much and best regards,

Jun Rana
Chairman
PAAD Sports Committee

D6: Dynamic tops No Way, 65-60 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana / Photo by Ed Ortega

In one of the most intense battle in the tournament, RJ Valera delivered the knock-out punch through clutch three point shooting and free throws in the closing minutes of the games to help Dynamic to a 65-60 hard fought win over No Way (Maricas) in Day 6 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the second win for Dynamic in five outings to tie No Way for the fourth and last spot in the semifinals.

In a must win game to stay alive for the hunt for a semifinals seat, Dynamic proved steadier in the end game of a tightly contested game. The game was so intense that in the final three minutes of the game, double technical fouls were called on Justin Mercado of Dynamic and Dave Setters of No Way who both incurred hard fouls with each other. The two were both ejected by the referees. At that point, with Dynamic leading by only four at 50-46, Valera hit a triple to give Dynamic more breathing room at 53-46, time down to two and a half minute.

No Way kept fighting on as they cut the lead to three at 58-55 on a three point shot by BJ Advento with a minute remaining. However, two free throws by Valera and a basket by Mark Pr’Out put the lead back to seven for Dynamic at 62-55, with 40 seconds remaining. Advento hit another triple to cut the lead to 62-58 but with 25 seconds remaining. Then came Valera’s heroics who was intentionally fouled twice. Valera made three crucial free throws to seal Dynamic’s win at 65-58 with five seconds to go. No Way made the final basket of the game to make the final score 65-60.

In the first half, No Way was off to a good start with a 22-15 lead with their offense led by Advento and Dave Setters who combined for 15 points at the half. However, Valera, Mercado, Butch Sanchez and Ray Mann launched a 26-15 salvo to give the lead for Dynamic at 41-37. Advento, Setters and Alex Alday provided offense to No Way during that span. However, it was a lead which Dynamic did not relinquish until the end of the game.

Box Scores:
65- Dynamic: RJ Valera, 27; Butch Sanchez, 11; Justin Mercado,10; Ray Mann, 10; Mark Pr’Out, 7

60- No Way: BJ Advento, 26; Dave Setters, 15; Alex Alday, 10; El Persons, 5; Kenneth Savella, 2; Riki Makasakit; 2

D6: Baltimore Dragons beats WSA, 66-57 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana / Photo by Ed Ortega

After a tight first half, the Baltimore Dragons switched gear in the second half. RJ Buzon and Julio Concepcion converted eight three pointers to power Baltimore to a 66-57 victory over Wala Sa Ayos (WSA) in Day 6 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the fourth win for the Dragons in five games to grab solo second place in the tournament. WSA dropped to third place in the tournament.

With Paul Nicdao, Lester Dabu and Jeff Verneza at the helm of their fast paced game, WSA took an early 16-7 lead. However Concepcion and Buzon answered back with an 18-7 run to grab the lead 25-23 at halftime. The teams continued to trade baskets in the second half. With WSA leading by three, 41-38 midway in the second half, Concepcion hit a triple to tie the game at 41-all.

After another tie at 43-all, Buzon hit another rainbow shot to grab the lead for Baltimore at 46-43. The basket ignited a 20-14 run for the Dragons as Buzon and Concepcion kept hitting their three point shots which proved to be their major weapons in the game. Also, Frank Concepcion made his impact with 8 points in the second half for the Dragons. On the other hand, Nicdao and Dabu of WSA tried to keep pace with the Dragons. Nicdao had two three pointers of his own in the second half. However, when the smoke of the battle was cleared, the Dragons emerged with a 66-57 victory.

Playing coach Ed Padilla played for the Dragons who withstood the challenge of WSA. The Dragons hot shooting in the game, especially in the three point territory, won the game for them. They also proved that they have good stamina by running with the speedsters of WSA in the entire game.

Box Scores:
66 – Baltimore Dragons: Julio Concepcion, 26; RJ Buzon, 24; Frank Concepcion, 11; Sebastian Cabrera, 3; Souk Gumatay, 2;

57 – WSA: Paul Nicdao, 27; Lester Dabu, 16; Alex Santos, 5; Jeff Verneza, 5; Roque Guerzon, 2; Andre De Lara 2

D6: GK Warriors wins by default over Delaware Titans (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors had an easy day in the office as they won by default over the Delaware Titans in Day 6 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. The entire Titans team was a no show during the day. The Warriors did scrimmage games as their players played with one another in one of the basketball courts in the arena.

Per the Rules and Regulations of the PAAD 2010 Palaro, the official score will be 20-0 for the GK Warriors. It was the fifth straight win for the undefeated GK Warriors. The Titans bowed out from the 2010 PAAD Palaro with a 1-5 win loss record.

D6: GK Warriors enters final, with a win over No Way, 64-54 (35 and Over Division)

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors grabs the first finals berth in the 35 and Over Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament with a resounding 64-54 victory over a resilient No Way Team. It was the third win against one loss for the Warriors who will now play for the championship on August 14. They will play the winner of the knockout match between the Delaware Titans and No Way.

Jim Reynolds mastery of the boards and his team high 17 points proved to be the big difference in the victory. No Way had difficulty matching up with him during the entire game. He also got big support from Dennis Balagtas and Lex Vergara who added 16 and 10 points, respectively in the win.

The Warriors led from the start although by not big margin or only by a single digit. With Reynolds patrolling the boards, Balagtas, Vergara, Sonny De La Torre found their shooting touch in the first half. De La Torre had two three pointer and Balagtas had one as the Warriors raced to a 31-24 halftime lead. Meanwhile, Alex Alday and Riki Makasakit led the No Way offense in the first half with 7 points and 6 points, respectively.

In the second half, No Way fought toe to toe with the Warriors. With a three pointer from Raul Carabio, No Way had reduced the Warriors lead to four at 41-37, with 14 minutes remaining in the game. However, Reynolds triggered a 15-8 blast to push the Warriors lead to 56-45, 5 minutes remaining in the game. Exchanging baskets for baskets with No Way, the Warriors were able to hold on to the lead until the end of the game. Reynolds points were mostly on plays inside the painted area where he is a dominant figure. Balagtas and Jingo Jabat ably provided scoring support in the second half for the GK Warriors.

Box Scores:
64 – GK Warriors: Jim Reynolds, 17; Dennis Balagtas, 16; Felix Vergara, 10; Sonny De La Torre 8; Jingo Jabat, 7; James Hoeffliger, 4; Ed Padilla, 2;

54 – No Way: Riki Makasakit, 12; Raul Carabio, 11; Alex Alday, 9; Jay Lizardo, 8; Ramil Magpantay, 6; Norman Aquino, 5; Marlowe Ulit, 3

D6: L’Spikers de-volleyball upsets Dabarkads, 19-21, 21-16, 15-10 (Mixed Volleyball)

By Jun Rana

L’Spikers de-volleyball (HWBCI) shocked the Delaware Dabarkads, 19-21, 21-16, 15-10 in three sets in Day 6 of the Mixed Volleyball Tournament in the 2010 PAAD Palaro. It was an upset win by the jubilant L-Spikers de-volleybal l team. The teams agreed to shorten the third set to whoever score 15 points first and leading by 2 points.

With the win, L’Spikers finished the elimination round with a 2-2- record. Dabarkads still topped the standings with a 3-1 win loss record and had already gained an automatic entry in the finals on August 14. L’Spikers and Elkton Elitz will play in a knock-out match on August 7 to determine the opponent of Delaware Dabarkads in the final.

Chairman's Corner: Crucial Games on Saturday, August 7 - See you at 10:15am

Dear All,

On Saturday August 7, we will have the second to the last day of the 2010 PAAD Palaro which featured crucial matches. In the Open Basketball Division, undefeated GK Warriors and second ranked Baltimore Dragons will fight it out on who will be the number one seed in the semi-finals. Two semi-final seats are still for grabs between Wala Sa Ayos (WSA), Dynamic and No Way. WSA plays No Way, while Dynamic plays Red Bulls. Teams are requested to come at 10:15 AM. The semi-finals and finals will be on the last day of the Palaro which is August 14.

In the 35 and Over Basketball Division, there is a playoff game between second ranked Delaware Titans and third ranked No Way. The winner will face the GK Warriors in the finals on August 14.

In Mixed Volleyball, there is also a play-off game. Second ranked L’Spikers de-volleyball plays Elkton Elitz with the winner facing Delaware Dabarkads in the finals on August 14.

We also have the PAAD Philippine Bread House Youth Basketball tournament, where Blue Team plays the Gray Team and the Yellow Team facing the Green Team.

Here is the complete schedule:

Open Division Basketball:
Court #1 10:30 AM WSA vs. No Way
Court #2 10:30 AM GK Warriors vs. Baltimore Dragons
Court #3 10:30 AM Dynamic vs. Red Bulls

35 and Over Division Basketball:
Court #2 12:00 PM Delaware Titans vs. No Way

Mixed Volleyball:
Court #1 11:30 AM L’Spikers De Volleyball vs. Elkton Elitz

Youth Basketball:
Court #3 11:30 AM Blue vs. Gray
Court #3 12:10 AM Yellow vs. Green

Good luck to all the teams!

Thank you very much and best regards,

Jun Rana
Chairman
PAAD Sports Committee

D5: One win, one loss for Elkton Elitz in Day 5 (Mixed Volleyball)

By Jun Rana

Elkton Elitz played two games on Day 5 of the 2010 PAAD Palaro and came up with mixed results. In their first game, the Elkton Elitz defeated L’Spikers de-volleyball (HWBCI), 21-11, 20-22, 11-6 in three sets.

In its second game, the Delaware Debarkads prevailed over the Elkton Elitz, 19-21. 15-7. 11-9.



Win the win, the Delaware Dabarkads entered the finals on August 14. They lead the Mixed Volleyball tournament with a 3-0 win loss record. They are followed by L’Spikers de-volleyball with 1-2 record and by Elkton Elitz with a 1-3 record.

L’Spikers de-volleyball and Elkton Elitz will play in a play-off on August 7 to determine the opponent of Delaware Dabarkads in the final.

D5: Delaware Titans rips No Way, 56-36 (35 and Over Division)

By Jun Rana

The Delaware Titans seem to be peaking at the right time. The Titans displayed superb team effort, fluid offense and balanced scoring as they defeated No Way, 56-36 in Day 5 of the 35 and Over Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the second win for the Titans in four outings that put them back with a mathematical chance to capture an automatic finals berth, in the event that all teams in the Division finish with identical 2-2 win-loss record.

Bolstered by the return of its three key players, Ramon Agui, Edward Ortega, and Karl Ebron from vacation, the Titans took advantage of the offensive woes of No Way right from the start of the game. Luis Alvarez, Ortega and Jeorge Corotan had five points a piece to power the Titans to a 25-13 halftime lead.

No Way’s offense was nowhere to be found in the first half as it could only muster 13 points led by 4 points from El Persons, and 3 points each by Alex Alday and Mike Vergara. Luis Alvarez of the Titans made a running 3 point shot for the Titans as time expired in the 1st half to the delight of the Titans fans.

In the second half, the Delaware Titans continued their scintillating game. Agui found his vintage form to lead the offense in the second half with 9 points, including exceptional free throw shooting (making 5 out of 6). Teammate Jason Del Rosario, provided his rebounding and shooting prowess and contributed 6 points in the second half.

No Way however did not flinch in the second half as Alday and Persons traded baskets with the Titans. Alday had 8 points and Persons had 5 points in the second half. However, those points were not enough as No Way were not able to put a dent on the Titan’s lead. The Titans went on to outscore No Way 31-23 in the second half, which put the final score at 56-36 in Titan’s favor.

The loss dropped No Way to third place in the standing with a 1-2 win loss record. The second and third place teams at the end of the elimination round will play on August 7 to determine the team who will meet the first place team in the finals on August 14.

Box Scores:
56 - Delaware Titans: Ramon Agui, 9; Luis Alvarez, 8; Jason Del Rosario, 8; Jeorge Corotan, 7; Edward Ortega, 7; Eggie Alafriz, 5; Arnel Lalicon, 4; Karl Ebron, 2; Jomar Ugarte, 2; D Tapel, 2; Joneil Garcia, 2;

36 – Alex Alday, 11; El Persons, 9; Ramil Magpantay, 4; Jay Lizardo, 4; Mike Vergara, 3, Paul Micarsos, 3, Riki Makasakit, 2

D5: No Way (Maricas) wins as Red Bulls Defaulted (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

No Way (Maricas) won over Red Bulls who defaulted their game in Day 5 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament , Red Bulls was not able to come up with five players at the start of the game. Per the Rules and Regulations of the PAAD 2010 Palaro, the official score will be 20-0 for No Way.

It was the second win against two losses for Coach Paul Micarsos and his No Way charges, as they maintained the fourth spot in the Team Standings and kept their semi-final hopes alive. Red Bulls formally bowed out of the semi-final contention by absorbing their fourth loss in five outings.

D5: GK Warriors pounds Dynamic, 96-40 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The GK Warriors vaunted firepower proved too much against Dynamic, as they pounded the latter, 96-40 in Day 5 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the fourth straight win for the Warriors as they formally clinched the first semi-finals berth in the Division. Dynamic had only five players during the day who fought valiantly but simply those five players were not able to match the awesome firepower of the Warriors.

Mario Lancioni and Santini Lancioni led the charge of the Warriors brigade in the first half with 11 and 10 points. They were ably supported by Yogi Veranga, Ryan De Gracia, Ryan De Guzman and Coco Clemente. With those players hitting on all cylinders, the Warriors built a 44-20 halftime lead. RJ Valera tried to carry the fight for Dynamic with 14 points in the first half, including 4 three pointers, but received little support from his other team mates.

In the second half, MVP candidate Santini Lancioni stepped up his game, and along with Dustin Coloso, Veranga, Chris Clemente and Herb Monsalud continued to pad the Warriors lead. The Warriors did not let up as they erupted for 52 points in the second half against only 20 points by Dynamic, putting the final score at 96-40 win by the GK Warriors. Mark Pr’Out, Valera and Mike Sanchez did all they could but could not stop the Warriors avalanche of baskets.

Santini Lancioni top scored for the Warriors with 26 points, followed by his brother Mario Santini with 13 and last year’s MVP Veranga with 10 points. RJ Valera led Dyamic with 21 points followed by Mark Pr’Out with 12 points.
Dynamic suffered its third defeat in four outings. However, they are still in contention for a semi-finals berth if they win their last two preliminary round games.

Box Scores:
96 – GK Warriors: Santini Lancioni, 26; Mario Lancioni, 13; Yogi Veranga, 10; Ryan De Guzman, 9; Chris Clemente, 8; Herb Monsalud, 8; Dustin Coloso, 7; Ryan De Gracia, 5; Coco Clemente, 4; Sonny De La Torre, 4, Ian Clemente, 2

40 – Dynamic: RJ Valera, 21; Mark Pr’Out, 12; Mike Sanchez, 5; Francisco Palance, 2

D5: WSA routs Delaware Titans, 84-44 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Wala Sa Ayos (WSA) triumvirate of Paul Nicdao, Alex Santos and Jeff Verneza combined for 67 points to rout the depleted team of the Delaware Titans, 84-44 in Day 5 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was the third win for WSA to share second place with Baltimore Dragons with a 3-1 win loss record, and establish themselves as a contender for the championship crown.

Early in the first half, the trio along with Andre De Lara engineered a blistering attack to take an early 22-9 lead with 8 minutes to go in the first half. At the outset, the Titans clearly missed the services of its key players, team captain Steve Antonio, Jesse Fabian and JC Destreza as they could not keep up with WSA pace. WSA was in cruise control in the first half to build a commanding 35-17 halftime lead. Nicdao led the first half assault with 12 points including 3 three pointers. Santos, Verneza and De Lara also added one three pointers each. For the Titans, Dexter Quezon, Paul Valencia and Jeff Holcomb tried to parry the threats of WSA with little success.

In the second half, WSA continued its masterful performance against the Titans.
This time the WSA triumvirate was joined by Lester Dabu as they further padded the lead to 67-37 with 9 minutes remaining in the game. With only six men in its line-up for the day, the Titans led by Quezon, Valencia and Arnel Lalicon, did not provide much resistance in the second half. WSA further increased the lead to 84-44 until the final buzzer.

Nicdao led the WSA scorers with 26 points, followed by Santos with 23 points and Verneza with 18 points. For the Titans, Quezon was the high point man with 18 points, followed by Valencia with 13. With the loss, the Titans formally vowed out of the semi-finals contention by absorbing it fourth loss in five outings.

Box Scores:
84-WSA: Paul Nicdao, 26; Alex Santos, 23; Jeff Verneza, 18; Lester Dabu, 10; Andre De Lara, 7

44-Delaware Titans: Dexter Quezon, 18; Paul Valencia, 13; Arnel Lalicon, 6; Jeff Holcomb, 5; Jason Del Rosario , 2

Chairman's Corner: Former PBA Player Yoyoy Villamin may play on Saturday, July 31st

Dear All,

The PAAD Palaro fans and the community may be in for a treat. Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Player Yoyoy Villamin may play this Saturday with the Baltimore Dragons. Yoyoy Villamin, a.k.a. Bicolano Superman and also the other half of the "Bruise Brothers", played for the famous Crispa Redmanizers, Manila Beer, Sunkist and Hills Brothers in the PBA. He needs to play in the last two games of the Baltimore Dragons so that he can qualify to play in the semi-finals.

The Baltimore Dragons have already qualified for the semi-finals. Three wins is the magic number to make it in the semi-finals, and Baltimore currently has a 3-1 win loss record.

Under the PAAD Rules and Regulations, Yoyoy Villamin is eligible to play in the PAAD Tournament, since ex-PBA Players who has not played during the last 5 years in the PBA is allowed to play in the tournament. Villamin last played in the PBA in the 1990’s.

So to all basketball fans, please come to the PAL Center at 10:15 AM. Baltimore plays Wala Sa Ayos at 10:30 AM. You may be in for a treat as there is a good chance that Yoyoy Villamin will play on Saturday, July 31.

Thank you very much. Maraming salamat po.

Best regards,

Jun Rana
Chairman
PAAD Sports Committee 2010

Cortez, Defending Champ Borres, 4 others are Three Point Shoot Out Finalists

After the conclusion of the elimination rounds of the Three Point Shooting Competition, five finalists emerged to challenge defending champion Noel Borres in the finals on August 14. These five finalists are:

Player and Team                                                Points
1. Jake Cortez – Red Bulls                                    16
2. Luis Alvarez – Delaware Titans (35 and over)       12
3. Ryan De Gracia – GK Warriors                          12
4. Ken Santos – WSA                                            8
5. Herb Monsalud – GK Warriors                             8

Noel Borres gets an automatic entry in the finals for being the defending champion.

D4: Delaware Dabarkads beats Elkton Elitz, 21-19, 21-19 (Mixed Volleyball)

Delaware Dabarkads prevailed over Elkton Elitz in two hotly contested sets, 21-19, 21-19 in the PAAD Palaro 2010 Mixed Volleyball Tournament. It was the second straight win for Dabarkads to lead the tournament with 2-0 win-loss record. The Elitz suffered its second straight loss that put them into a 0-2 win-loss record. Idle L’Spikers de-volleyball (HWBCI) is in second place with a 1-1 card.

The top ranked team in the double round robin elimination round will advance to the finals on August 14. The second place and third place teams will have a play-off game with the winner advancing to the finals.

D4: Sweet Escape for GK Warriors, tops No Way, 54-52 (35 and Over)

By Jun Rana

This is as good as it gets.

Unheralded Jay Baltazar's barreling lay-up shot with 8 seconds to go lifted the GK Warriors to a heart pounding 54-52 win over No Way (Maricas) in Day 4 of the 35 and Over Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro. The barreling lay-up, shot reminiscent of Philippine basketball legend Robert Jaworski, proved to be the winning basket as No Way missed their shot as time expired in the final possession of the game.

No way had actually mounted a huge comeback as they were down by seven at 49-42 with 3 minutes and 48 seconds remaining. However Ramil Magpantay and Eric Dollete of No Way triggered a 7-0 kamikaze attack to tie the count at 49 all, time down to 2 minutes in the game. Dollete hit a three point shot during that span. In the ensuing possession Tony Astoveza missed a shot but was fouled on the act of shooting. He converted two free throws to give the lead back to the Warriors, 51-49, time down to one minute and 30 seconds.

In the next possession, No Way found an open Norman Aquino who made a three point shot to give the lead back to No Way, 52-51, with over a minute left in the game. At this point the No Way fans in the arena were in frenzy and jumping for joy. In the ensuing possession, Baltazar took a shot and missed but was fouled on the act of shooting. He made one of two free throws to tie the game at 52 all, time down to 40 seconds. Still, No Way had a chance to win the game, but missed a crucial shot in its next possession. The Warriors grabbed the rebound with time down to 15 seconds.

Warriors Coach Herb Monsalud called a timeout to set up their final play in the next possession while No Way Coach Paul Micarsos gave his last minute instructions in the dramatic battle. In their next defensive sequence No Way focused on the Warriors big man Jim Reynolds, Astoveza and Dennis Balagtas. Baltazar who only had 3 points at that point went unnoticed and made the game winning shot to the delight of the screaming Warriors fans.

Early in the game the Warriors and No Way Team were locked in a tight battle. With 7 minutes left in the first half, the score was tied at 18 all. However the Warriors Big Three, Astoveza, Reynolds and Balagtas engineered a 13-4 run to finish the half at 31-22 in favor of the Warriors. Ramil Magpantay kept No Way in the thick of the fight with 10 points at halftime. He was ably supported by Marlowe Ulit and Aquino with 4 points apiece.

The second half saw a more energized No Way who answered the Warriors basket for basket. El Persons made his impact, and together with Magpantay, Dollete and Ulit quelled the challenge of Astoveza and Balagtas of the Warriors. No Way’s perseverance paid off as they tied the game at 49 all.

With the win, the Warriors grabbed the lead in the division with a 2-1 win loss record, ahead of No Way with a 1-1 record and the Delaware Titans with a 1-2 record.

Box Scores:
54 - GK Warriors: Tony Astoveza, 19; Dennis Balagtas, 14; Jim Reynolds, 10; Jay Baltazar, 5; Sonny De La Torre, 4; Ed Padilla, 2

52 – No Way: Ramil Magpantay,16, El Persons, 8; Marlowe Ulit, 7; Norman Aquino, 7; Eric Dollete, 7 Arnold Dawinan, 4; Riki Makasakit, 2; Alex Alday, 1

D4: Dynamic edges Delaware Titans 55-53 in a Thriller (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Chris Rivera drove in for a layup with 6 seconds to go, and teammate Justin Mercado blocked the game tying jump shot of Steve Antonio as Dynamic edged the Delaware Titans 55-53 in a thrilling game in the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. It was a heart breaking loss for the Titans who led in majority of the game.

The Titans led by four to six points in the early goings on the strong inside plays of Jesse Fabian and Dexter Quezon. However, Mercado and Valera provided the much needed baskets through layups and jump shots to keep Dynamic dangerously closed to the Titans. With 6 minutes to go in the first half, the Titans were still enjoying a 24-20 lead. And after trading baskets for baskets with Dynamic, the Titans emerged with a 6 point lead at halftime 32-26. Leading the cause for the Titans are Fabian, Quezon and Antonio who had 8 points, 7 points and 4 points each in the first half, while Mercado and Valera had 8 points and 6 points apiece for Dynamic.

In the second half, Dynamic players Rivera, Louis Hortaleza and Mark Pr’Out ignited a 25-19 attack to tie the count at 51-51, with 2 minutes remaining in the game. Antonio led the Titans with eight points in that stretch to keep the score close. He was helped by Fabian, Paul Valencia and Quezon.

Antonio then slipped under the basket for a layup to grab the lead for the Titans, 53-51, with just a minute remaining. However, Rivera eluded his guard and drove in for the tying basket, 53-53, 45 seconds to go. The Titans then missed in the next possession. And with 6 seconds remaining, Rivera drove and scored on a layup to grab the lead for Dynamic, 55-53. In the ensuing play, Antonio took a jump shot that could have sent the game in overtime. However, Mercado blocked the shot to preserve the win for Dynamic.

It was the first win in three outings for Dynamic. However, the win vaulted Dynamic from 7th place to a 4th place tie with No Way in the team standings. They are also back in contention for a semi-finals berth. The Titans absorbed their third loss in four outings and they now only hold a slim mathematical chance to capture a semifinals berth.

Box Scores:
55 – Dynamic: Justin Mercado, 10; Chris Rivera, 10; Louis Hortaleza, 10, RJ Valera, 9, Mike Sanchez, 6; Mike Pr’Out. 6; Rey Mann, 4

53 – Delaware Titans: Steve Antonio, 14, Jesse Fabian, 13; Dexter Quezon, 9; Paul Valencia, 7; Arnel Lalicon,3; Jeff Holcomb, 3; Glen De Luna, 2; Jason Del Rosario, 2

D4: Baltimore Dragons Fantastic Five Blasted No Way, 71-53 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Perhaps inspired by the physical stamina, endurance and determination of Filipino world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, the Baltimore Dragons played with only five players in the entire game and gallantly fought their way to victory over No Way (Maricas) in Day 4 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. And the Baltimore Dragons had done it with its coach Ed Padilla playing and with no players fouling out during the entire game. It was the third win against one loss for the Dragons to assume solo second place in the Open Division elimination round.

In the first half, the Dragons and No Way fought evenly. With RJ Buzon, Paco Estrada, Jackie Brosoto and Sebastian Cabrera leading the offense, the Dragons were only up 19-18 with 7 minutes remaining at the half. BJ Advento was leading the No Way attack at that point. The first half ended with the Dragons leading by only five, 28-23. With ten players present however, No Way was in a good position to upset the Dragons, as one the of Dragon players, Paco Estrada already had 3 fouls.

Estrada, Cabrera, Brosoto and Buzon engineered an 18-9 run to increase the Dragon’s lead to 46-30 in the second half, with 14 minutes remaining in the game. The Dragons did it with a combination of three point shooting and lay ups, with point guard Jackie Brosoto directing plays. Estrada had 2 three pointers and Buzon had one three pointer in that decisive stretch. Cabrera also provided the much needed rebounds for the Dragons in that stretch. It was that spurt that all the Dragons need to break away from No Way.

The Dragons then coasted to victory by trading baskets with No Way and ensuring that they kept themselves out of foul trouble, which they did the rest of the game. Dave Setters, Advento and Bryan Stevenson tried to mount a rally for No Way. However, No Way could not make several defensive stops as the tireless Dragons answered their shots basket for basket until the final buzzer which ended 71-53.

Estrada, a reserve in last year’s Baltimore Dragons team which placed second to GK Warriors in last year’s tournament had shown tremendous improvement in his game from last year. He top scored for the Dragons with 20 points. Buzon and Cabrera had 17 points apiece. BJ Advento led No Way scorers with 15 points, followed by Dave Setters with 11 points.

Despite the loss, No Way hanged on to fourth place in the tournament in a tie with Dynamic with a 1-2 win-loss record.

Box Scores:
71 – Baltimore: Paco Estrada, 20; RJ Buzon, 17, Sebastian Cabrera, 17; Jackie Brosoto, 14; Ed Padilla, 3

53 – No Way: BJ Advento, 15, Dave Setters, 11, Bryan Stevenson, 8; Jones Salpan, 6; Alex Alday, 4; Rod Campalan, 4; El Persons 3; Kenneth Savella, 2

D4: Santini Lancioni 's 51 Points Powers GK over Red Bulls, 129-83 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Erupting with the ferocity of the Philippines Mount Pinatubo, Santini Lancioni scored a majestic record breaking 51 points to power the GK Warriors to a 129-83 romp over Red Bulls in Day 4 of the Open Division of the 2010 PAAD Palaro basketball tournament. Lancioni finished the game with 14 three pointers in the most spectacular individual performance ever in the history of the PAAD Palaro league. It was the third win for the tournament leader Warriors - the only unbeaten team in the Open Division.

In the first half, it was clear that the Warriors wanted to deliver the knockout punch early in the game. The Warriors waxed hot early on in the three point range, converting twelve of them in the first half, seven by Santini Lancioni, two by Dustin Coloso and one each by Mario Lancioni (brother of Santini) and Dennis Balagtas. Red Bulls could only manage three rainbow shots, two by Raymond Latoga and one by Jake Cortez.

However, it was not only in the three point territory where the Warriors outgunned Red Bulls in the first half. The Warriors accurate mid range jump shots and layups netted them 36 points, ten more than Red Bulls. And with the firepower from Santini Lancioni, Mario Lancioni, Coloso, Balagatas and Ian Clemente, the Warriors opened up the game with a 34 point margin in the first half, 69-35. And at that point, it was all over but the shouting. At the end of the first half, Santini Lancioni already had 23 points and Mario Lancioni, 17 points. Meanwhile Latoga led the Red Bulls charge with 8 points and Frank Concepcion followed with 6 points.

In the second half, Santini Lancioni continued his three point shooting assault, converting seven more three pointers, to the delight of the fans. Latoga of the Red Bulls countered with five triples of his own in the second half. However, the Warriors have too many weapons at their arsenal. With Santini Lancioni waxing hot at all angles, Balagtas and Coco Clemente provided much needed support as the Warriors extended their lead to 109-61 with just 10 minutes remaining. Coach Karl Malicdem of Red Bulls prodded his players to fight on. Latoga, Frank Concepcion and Cortez responded and fought gamely for Red Bulls and tried to reduce the deficit, but to no avail. With both teams just trading baskets, the Warriors coasted to an easy victory with the final score at 129-83.

Coach Herb Monsalud and his charges need only one more win to secure a semi-finals berth. And at the rate GK Warriors are playing, they are on course to grab the top seed in the semi-finals.

Box Scores:
129- GK Warriors: Santini Lancioni, 51; Mario Lancioni, 22; Dennis Balagtas, 18; Dustin Coloso, 13; Coco Clemente, 9; Ian Clemente, 8; Ryan De Guzman, 4, Leo Yanogacio, 2; Herb Monsalud, 2

83 – Red Bulls: Raymond Latoga, 23; Frank Concepcion, 15; Jake Cortez, 12; Sam Borromeo, 10; Ben Wu, 6; Paul Tan, 6; Rysal Castro, 4; Jet Deleste, 4; Karl Malicdem, 3

D3: Delaware Titans avenges loss, stops GK Warriors, 63-34 (35 and Over)

By Jun Rana

Displaying its finest form yet in the tournament, the Delaware Titans scored an impressive 63-34 thumping of the GK Warriors in Day 3 of the 35 and Over Division. The Titans avenged their loss against the Warriors in their first meeting and put themselves back in contention for an automatic finals berth in the 35 and Over Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 basketball tournament. It was the Titans first win in three games in the double round robin preliminary rounds, but another win could earn the team a mathematical chance to capture an automatic finals berth.

The juggernaut quartet of Jason Del Rosario, Jeorge Corotan, Jomar Ugarte and Luis Alvarez buckled down to work in the early goings in the first half to secure a 23-11 lead with just 3 minutes and 26 seconds remaining in the first half. The GK Warriors clearly missed the services of its big men Jim Reynolds, Tony Astoveza and Dennis Balagtas as the quartet penetrated the lanes time and time again for easy baskets. This time it was the Titans who had the big man in Jason Del Rosario who asserted himself in the boards and proved to be an intimidating force in defense. Del Rosario also had two three pointers in the first half. The Titans further increased their lead to 17 at the half, 35-18.

The Titans continued to dominate the Warriors in the second half. The score was not close but the intensity of the game was high throughout. The Warriors fought very hard but the Titans was simply the better team during the day. Sonny De La Torre, Doc Mel Madarang and Felix Vergara tried to rally the Warriors in order to reduce the Titans double digit lead. However, they were frustrated time and time again by Corotan, Del Rosario, Ugarte, and D Tapel. Del Rosario scored two more three pointers in the second half, and Corotan penetrated the lanes at times for easy layups.

“It was a great win, a badly needed win,” said a jubilant Ugarte of the Titans.

Box Scores:
63 - Delaware Titans: Jeorge Corotan, 18; Jason Del Rosario, 18; Jomar Ugarte, 14; D Tapel 7; Luis Alvarez, 6

34 - GK Warriors: Sonny De La Torre, 16; Felix Vergara, 7; Doc Mel Madarang, 5; Ed Padilla, 2; James Hoeffliger, 2; June Andres, 2

D3: Delaware Titans in a walkover win over Red Bulls (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The Delaware Titans scored its first win in the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 Basketball tournament with a walkover win over Red Bulls. The inclement weather brought havoc to Red Bulls bid for victory, as majority of its players were not able to make it in time for the start of its 10:30 AM game with the Titans. The Titans win further threw the race wide open for one of the four semifinal slots in the Open Division. All the teams are still in contention in the semi-finals.

The Delaware Titans and Red Bulls are now tied for 5th place in the Open Division with a 1-2 win-loss cad behind the fourth place No Way with a 1-1 win-loss record.

D3: Baltimore Dragons outlasts Dynamic, 60-52 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

The Baltimore Dragons and Dynamic fought toe to toe in the entire game, but the Dragons proved steadier in the clutches towards the end of the game, to outlast Dynamic, 60-52 in Day 3 of the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 Basketball tournament. The win gave the Dragons a share of second place with WSA, with a 2-1 win-loss record. Dynamic absorbed its second loss in as many outings.

Dynamic gave the Dragons all they could handle in the first half which ended 34-32 in favor of the Dragons. It was the trio of RJ Buzon, Jackie Brosoto and Paco Estrada who combined for 21 points in the first half that helped the Dragons to a two point halftime edge. Dynamic had all the answers in the first half coming from Justin Mercado, Mark Pr’out, playing coach Mike Sanchez and Louis Hortaleza that kept the game close. Mercado and Pr’out had eight points apiece in the first half.

The second half saw both teams exchanging baskets and are in a virtual tie throughout the second half. However, in crucial possessions in the last 3 minutes of the game, Dynamic went cold. The Dragons took advantage of the cold shooting spell of Dynamic. Urged on by its coach, Ed Padilla and Led by Brosoto and unheralded Marti Olayvar, the Dragons were able to build a 54-49 lead with 51 seconds remaining. After several desperation attempts by Dynamic, the Dragons went on to pad the lead and won the game with the final score of 60-52.

“We tried, but our efforts were not enough. It was a good game, though,” said losing playing Coach Mike Sanchez.

Box Scores:
60 - Baltimore Dragons : Jackie Brosoto, 15; RJ Buzon, 12; Marti Olayvar, 12; Paco Estrada, 8; Ian Reyes, 7; Paul Angelo, 3; Anthony Curtiz, 3

52- Dynamic: Justin Mercado, 15; Mark Pr’Out, 10; Louis Hortaleza, 9; Mike Sanchez, 8; Reese Pr’Out, 7; Jeff Jirkovsky, 3

D3: GK Warriors tops WSA, 66-54 in Battle of Unbeaten Teams (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

Playing like a well oiled machine, the GK Warriors used a well balanced attack to prevail over a fighting Wala Sa Ayos (WSA), 66-54, in the battle of unbeaten teams in Day 3 of the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 Basketball tournament. The Warriors grabs the lead in the Open Division with a 2-0 win-loss record. WSA dropped to a second place tie with Baltimore Dragons with a 2-1 win-loss record.

The Warriors playing coach Herb Monsalud effectively rotated his players to build an early 41-25 halftime lead in a fast paced game. Dustin Coloso and Santini Lancioni led the first half attack with 11 points each, followed by last year’s MVP Yogi Veranga with 6 points. The four three pointers by the GK Warriors in the first half, three of them by Lancioni and one by Coloso, proved to be the lethal weapon that led to a 16 point halftime lead. Meanwhile, WSA’s scoring trio of Jeff Verneza, Alex Santos and Paul Nicdao had only 17 points in the first half.

The Warriors then coasted to victory in the second half although WSA put up a much tougher fight. This time it was WSA who unloaded their three point shooting ammunitions hitting six three pointers in the second half (3 by Nicdao, 2 by Verneza, and 1 from Roque Guerzon). And with only 3 minutes and 24 seconds remaining the Warriors lead was reduced to 9 at 60-51. However, the Warriors kept their cool and put up a scintillating defense in the final minutes of the game to seal the win at 66-54. The deeper bench of the Warriors was also evident as Chris Clemente, and Ian Clemente helped in the scoring chores in the second half with 6 and 5 points apiece.

Box Scores:
66 – GK Warriors: Dustin Coloso, 16; Santini Lancioni, 11; Yogi Veranga, 10; Chris Clemente, 8; Ian Clemente, 6; Mario Lancioni, 6; Curtis Clemente, 4; Herb Monsalud, 2; Coco Clemente, 2; Ryan De Guzman,1

54 – WSA: Jeff Verneza, 15; Paul Nicdao, 13; Alex Santos, 10; Lester Dabu, 7; Roque Guerzon, 6; Michael Alegarbes, 3

D2: NoWay Shades Delaware Titans in Thriller, 41-40 (35 and Over)

by Jun Rana

Veteran player Marlowe Ulit converted two crucial free throws with 15 seconds remaining in the game and saw Joel Villamor missed a heavily defended layup in the dying seconds to lift NoWay (Maricas) to a thrilling 41-40 win over the Delaware Titans, in Day 2 of the 35 and Over Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 basketball tournament. It was the first win of NoWay Team to share the lead with idle GK Warriors in the 35 and Over Division. The Titans, who led most of the way in the second half and by as many as seven points, absorbed their second loss in as many outings.

It was a tight first half as the teams were only separated by one or two points and with several lead changes during that half. At the end of the first half, it was the Titans leading by two at 22-20. At this point, Jason Del Rosario, Ed Ortega,Willie Fontano and Karl Ebron led the assault for the Titans, while El Persons, Ulit and Alex Alday traded baskets with the Titans. Titans top scorer in its first game Ramon Agui did not play for the Titans.

Heads up plays by Del Rosario and Ortega triggered a 9-4 run to pad the Titans lead to seven at 31-24, with 14 minutes to go in the second half. However, back to back baskets by Ramil Magpantay and Ulit reduced the lead of the Titans to four, 32-28. However Del Rosario answered back with a three point shot to increase the Titans lead to seven once again, 35-28, with 9 minutes remaining in the game.

But each time the Titans threatened to pull away, NoWay would come up with each own scoring spree. This time, Alex Alday, Ulit and Persons led an 11-4 burst to tie the game at, 39 all, with 33 seconds in the game. During that run, Persons delivered a crucial three point shot to help NoWay cause.

In the ensuing possession, Fontano was fouled and hit one of two free throws to grab the lead for the Titans, 40-39, time down to 20 seconds in the game. With both teams in the penalty situation, the Titans committed a costly foul on Ulit with 15 seconds remaining. Ulit calmly sank the two free throws, to finally take the lead for NoWay for good, 41-40 after a missed layup by Titan’s Villamor in the dying seconds. El Persons led No Way with 13 points, while Del Rosario of the Titans led all scorers with 16 points.

“It was an exciting win,” said a jubilant Alday of NoWay. “We did not execute well in the final possession, it was a tough loss, “said Luis Alvarez of the Titans.

Box Scores:
41 - NoWay (Maricas): El Persons, 13; Marlowe Ulit, 9; Alex Alday, 8; Jay Lizardo, 4;Mike Vergara, 3; Arnold Dawinan, 2; Ramil Magpantay, 2

40 – Delaware Titans: Jason Del Rosario, 16; Ed Ortega, 12; Willie Fontano, 7; Karl Ebron, 3; Luis Alvarez, 2

D2: Dabarkads defeated L'Spikers in 2 sets (Mixed Volleyball)

by Jun Rana

Defending champion Delaware Dabarkads opened the defense of its Mixed Volleyball championship crown with a rousing win over L’Spikers de-volleyball (HealingWater), 21-10 and 21-15. The win enable Dabarkads to grab the lead in the three cornered fight for the volleyball championship, with a 1-0 winloss record. Second in the standings is L’Spikers de-volleyball (HealingWater) with a 1-1- win-loss record. Last year’s runner up Elkton Elitz is third with a 0-1 win-loss record.

The Mixed Volleyball tournament allows the fielding of two male players and four male players in a game, and is proving to be an exciting and popular game for the fans. The Volleyball games resume on July 17.

Jake Cortez is the Three Point Shootout Leader

by Jun Rana

Sharp shooter Jake Cortez of Red Bulls leads the elimination round of the Three Point Shootout Competition in PAAD 2010 Basketball Tournament as he scored a sizzling 16 points in the Day 1 of the elimination. The maximum points that one can reach is 26 points on perfect 10 out 10 shooting. There are three money balls worth 4 points and Cortez hit two of them.

Luiz Alvarez of the Delaware Titans 35 years old and over Team is second with 12 points. Alvarez hit one money ball. A far third is Arnel Lalicon of the Delaware Titans Open team with 4 points. Three players are tied for fourth place with two points each, namely, Marlowe Ulit of NoWay (Maricas) 35 years old and over Team, Dave Setters of NoWay (Maricas) Open Team, and Jeff Holcomb of the Delaware Titans
Open team.

Each team in the Open Division and 35 and Over Division has two entries in the competition which makes a total of 20 contestants. The top four players in the elimination rounds will join defending champion Noel Borres in the finals on the last day of PAAD Palaro 2010 tournament which is August 14.

D2: Red Bulls secures first win as Baltimore defaulted (Open Division)

by Jun Rana

Red Bulls won in the most easiest way in Day 2 of the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 basketball tournament as the Baltimore Dragons defaulted its game with a no show. It was the first win for the Red Bulls which improved to a 1-1 win loss record in the Division, same record of the Dragons who won during their opening day game. As per the rules and regulations of the tournament, the win by Red Bulls
over the Dragons will be officially 20-0.

“We do not want to win this way, but we will take it. Any win is vital in the preliminary round,” said a smiling Coach Karl Malicdem of Red Bulls.

“The Dragons opted to default the game as my players are competing in an invitational tournament in Washington DC, that day. We will definitely be there in our next game in PAAD Palaro on July 10 and in all our coming games,” said Coach Padilla of the Dragons.

D2: NoWay notches first win in Open Division, stops Titans 65-55 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana

No Way (Maricas) used balance scoring, three point shooting, and superior rebounding to bounce back from its opening day loss and topple the Delaware Titans, 65-55 in Day 2 of the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 basketball tournament.

Under the watchful eyes of Coach Paul Micarsos, NoWay took the initiative right from the start with a 22-12 onslaught led by Marlowe Ulit and Dave Setters during the first 16 minutes of the game. At that point, eight NoWay players have already scored for the team. With its fans cheering and encouraging them however, The Titans refused to yield as they cut the lead of NoWay, 26-18 at the half with barrage of baskets from Will imperial and Dexter Quezon. A big factor for NoWay in maintaining the lead at the half were the 4 three pointers contributed by Rudy Mallari, Ulit, El Persons and rookie Bryan Stevenson.

The Titans caught fire in the second half, as team captain Steve Antonio combined forces with Quezon and Imperial as the Titans slowly gained on NoWay’s Lead. However, BJ Advento of NoWay suddenly came alive and together with Persons, Setters and Stevenson parried the threats of the Titans. With 6 minutes remaining in the second half, NoWay’s lead was reduced to five points, 52-47. However, No Way found another stride and unleashed a 13-8 barrage with the help of Alex Alday, Advento and
Persons to ice the win for NoWay, 65-55. Advento scored all of his 14 points in the second half. Meanwhile, Antonio and Quezon of the Titans scored 10 points each in the second half.

NoWay was helped with their superior rebounding which limited the second chance points of the Titans. NoWay outrebounded the Titans with a 2 to 1 ratio. Also, NoWay has five three pointers in the game as compared to zero for the Delaware Titans. The effective distribution of playing time to majority of the players by Coach Micarsos enabled NoWay to finish strongly in the closing minutes of the game.

“This is a very good win for the team,” said No Way Coach Micarsos.

Box Scores:
65 - NoWay (Maricas): BJ Advento, 14; Dave Setters, 10; El Persons, 10; Bryan Stevenson, 9 ; Alex Alday, 8; Marlowe Ulit, 5; Rudy Mallari, 3; Arnold Dawinan, 2; Kenneth Savella, 2; Rod Campalan, 2

55 – Delaware Titans: Dexter Quezon, 15; Will Imperial, 14; Steve Antonio, 13; Paul Valencia, 4; Ian Orbeta, 3; Arnel Lalicon, 2; Jason Del Rosario, 2; Andrew Ronde, 2

D2: WSA Stuns Dynamic, 65-45 (Open Division)

by Jun Rana

Wala Sa Ayos (WSA) continued to impress basketball fans and aficionados via a stunning win over Dynamic Physical Therapy, 65-45 in Day 2 of the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 basketball tournament. Paul Nicdao, Jeff Verneza and Alex Santos combined for 52 points to powerWSA to a resounding win that put them at the top of the standings in the Open Division with a 2-0 win-loss record. Idle GKWarriors is second with a 1-0, win-loss record.

It was a tight first half as Dynamic took the early lead, 13-11, on baskets by RJ Valera, Rich Bandoy and Ray Mann. However, the scoring trio of Santos, Verneza, and Nicdao buckled down to work and ignited an 18-10 blast to grab the lead at halftime, 29-23. Each of the scoring trio had one three point shot in the first half.

In the second half,WSA’s running game and well executed plays took its toll on Dynamic which only showed up with six players and missed several key players including playing coach Mike Sanchez, Will Barnes, Justin Mercado and Joe Miranda.

Sensing that fatigue was setting in on Dynamic players, Nicdao, Verneza, Santos and Charles Peart delivered the knock-out punch with a 32-22 attack, to put the game away at 61-45 with 1 minute and 40 seconds remaining. The foursome delivered with a combination of layups and rainbow shooting (one each by Verneza and Peart). However, it was Nicdao’s 13 points and 5 assists that were crucial in that most decisive stretch. The only guy who kept answering the call for Dynamic in the second half was Mark Pr’Out who had 13 points in that half. Former PAAD Youth player Francisco Palanca played for Dynamic and had one three pointer in the second half.

“We run out of gas. We hope to have most of our players around on July 10,” said RJ Valera of Dynamic. Nicdao led all scorers with 19 points while Mark Pr’Out top scored for Dynamic with 16 points.

Box Scores:
65 - WSA: Paul Nicdao, 19; Jeff Verneza, 18; Alex Santos, 15; Charles Peart, 9; Andre De Lara, 4

45 – Dynamic:Mark Pr’Out, 16; Rich Bandoy, 8; Ray Mann, 8; RJ Valera, 7; Francisco Palanca, 3; Reese
Pr’Out, 3

D1: GK Warriors routs No Way Team, 85-58 (Open Division)

by Jun Rana / Photo by Poochie Roldan

Defending champion GK Warriors open its bid for a third straight championship in the Open Division by unloading 14 three pointers, 5 of them by Ryan De Gracia, to rout a fighting No Way (Maricas) Team, 85-58 in the opening day of the PAAD Palaro at the PAL Hockessin on June 12 (Philippine Independence Day). De Gracia finished with a game high 21 points.

It was Dustin Coloso, son of former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) player Tim Coloso of the famous Toyota Corollas and Tamaraws who carried the fight n the first half with 12 points, including 2 three pointers. Coloso combined with Curtis Clemente who had 7 points in the first half, to put the game beyond recall 37-13, with 3 minutes remaining in the first half. Curtis Clemente, Mario Lancioni, Santini Lancioni, and Chris Clemente and Ryan De Guzman had one three pointer each in the first half, which ended 42-15 in GK’s favor.

The Warriors also displayed its tough defense which No Way had little success penetrating. Coach Paul Micarsos who was voted as the best coach of the 2009 season tried to rally his players to rise to the challenge. BJ Advento answered the call by finishing with a team high 7 points in the first half, including a triple. However, Advento did not get enough support from his teammates.

No Way made a game of it in the second half, but hardly made a dent in the lead of the Warriors who did not relax a bit in their opening triumph. It was in the second half when Ryan De Gracia put on a three point shooting clinic with five three pointers. No Way went down fighting however as Arnold Dawinan and Dave Setters discovered their shooting touch to combine for 21 points in the second half. In the end however, the superior line up of the GK Warriors proved too much for No Way Team to overcome.

“The Warriors played very hard and we got the win,” said Warrior team manager Doctor Mel Madarang. “The Warriors outplayed us and they are a much better team than last year. They have a very deep line-up,“ said Micarsos, playing coach of No Way Team.

For Coach Herb Monsalud and his charges, there is no better way to start than this resounding win over No Way, a giant first step for the Warriors to be crowned as the first three-peat champion of the PAAD Palaro League.

Box Scores:
85 - Warriors: Ryan De Gracia, 21; Dustin Coloso, 14; Curtis Clemente, 12; Dennis Balagtas, 7; Leo Yanogacio 6; Ryan De Guzman, 5; Mario Lancioni, 5; Santini Lancioni, 5; Chris Clemente, 5; Ian Clemente, 3; Sonny De la Torre, 2
58 - No Way (Maricas): Arnold Dawinan, 14; BJ Advento, 13; Dave Setters, 11; Kenneth Savella, 6; Alex Alday, 5; Jones Salpan, 4; Malowe Ulit,3; El Persons, 2

D1: WSA trounced archrival Red Bulls, 62-45 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana / Photo by Poochie Roldan

Hot shooting Paul Nicdao had 24 points , Michael Alegarbes had 12 points and Lester Dabu added 10 points to spark Wala Sa Ayos (WSA) to a 62-45 opener win over archrival Red Bulls in the Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 tournament.

Red Bulls missed the services of several of its key players including Raymond Latoga, Chris Balan, Jake Cortez and Paul Tan. Latoga was a star player of last year’s runner up Baltimore Dragons. Red Bulls however showed its resiliency in the first half, when they were downed by only six, 29-23. The scoring trio of Julio Concepcion, Frank Concepcion and Mitch Gacosta provided the much needed boost for Red Bulls by scoring toe to toe with Nicdao, Lester Dabu and Alex Santos. Nicdao finished the half with 12 points.

However, in the second half Alegarbes and Nicdao triggered a 19-13 run that gave them a 48-36 lead midway in the second half. WSA never looked back after that run as Red Bulls run out of steam with its depleted line up. Alegarbes had two three pointers in the second half.
“It was a tough loss. WSA played well. We certainly missed our key players. We will be more competitive in future games,” said Coach Karl Malicdem of Red Bulls. In this game, Coach Malicdem pretty much relied on his scoring trio who played last year with the Baltimore Dragons.

Armando Concepcion, playing coach of WSA was absent during the game, and Alegarbes called
the shots in his absence. “This is a good start,” said Alegarbes.

Scores:
62 - WSA: Paul Nicdao, 24; Michael Alegarbes, 12; Lester Dabu, 10; Alex Santos, 7; Roque Guerzon, 5; Charles Peart, 3; Ken Santos, 1

45 - Red Bulls: Frank Concepcion, 15; Mitch Gacosta, 13; Julio Concepcion, 11; Ben Wu 6

D1: Baltimore Dragons escapes Delaware Titans' upset bid, 47-39 (Open Division)

By Jun Rana / Photo By Poochie Roldan

Even playing with only five players would not stop the Baltimore Dragons to gut out a hard fought win over the Delaware Titans, 47-39 in Open Division of the PAAD Palaro 2010 tournament. And the Dragons had to do it with Coach Ed Padilla playing for the first time in any PAAD tournaments. The scoring trio of RJ Bazon, Joshua Marasigan and Justin Marasigan combined for 45 points to power the Dragons over the Titans.

It was a match of attrition as the Delaware Titans were also missing the services of team Captain Steve Antonio and key player Jason Del Rosario who were on vacation in the Philippines. With nine players however, the Delaware Titans suddenly had a good chance of beating the Dragons who showed up with only five players.

The match was a very close one with the teams exchanging leads in the first half. The Dragons were only leading 16-13 midway in the first half. Rowell Quezon and Paul Valencia however kept the Titans in the thick of the fight. Quezon and Valencia had 12 points in the first half. But RJ Bazon, Joshua Marasigan and Justin Marasigan always had answer for every Titans run as the half ended 24-18 in favor of Baltimore.

The second half was a tight contest. The Dragons countered the Titans basket for basket and at the same time managed to stay away from crucial fouls to avoid fouling out of one of its players. It was Quezon and Valencia carrying the scoring load for the Titans against the Baltimore scoring trio. When the smoke of the battle cleared at 3 minutes and 45 seconds remaining in the second half, the Dragons managed to have a breathing room with 42-33 lead. It was a good enough to carry the Dragons to their first win in the Open Division of the tournament.

“A lot of my players are playing in other tournaments in Virginia/ Washington DC areas at the same time with the PAAD tournament. That’s why we only have five players today,” said Coach Ed Padilla who had a sense of relief with the win.

“We’re okay,” said losing player JC Destreza of the Titans with a smile indicating they will be ready in the coming games. The Titans will be reinforced by Jesse Fabian, the Titan’s top scorer last year in its next games.

BOX SCORES:
47 – Baltimore Dragons – RJ Buzon, 19; Justin Marasigan, 14; Joshua Marasigan, 12; Ed Padilla, 2

39 – Delaware Titans – Rowell Quezon, 17; Paul Valencia, 11; Arnel Lalicon, 6; Ian Orbeta, 3; Glen De Luna, 2

D1: GK Warriors beats Delaware Titans, 66-46 (35 and Over)

By Jun Rana / Photo by Poochie Roldan

Tony Astoveza, Sonny De La Torre, Dennis Balagtas and Jim Reynolds combined for 61 points to power the GK Warriors to a rousing win over the Delaware Titans in the first ever PAAD 35 Years Old and Over Division, 66-46. The Warriors height advantage proved to be a decisive factor, as the Warriors outrebounded the Titans 25-14 and made easy baskets inside the paint.

The Warriors took control of the game early in the first half as they raced to an early 19-10 lead with baskets from Astoveza, De La Torre and Balagtas. Jim Reynolds had at least 3 rebounds during that span and his towering presence disrupted several plays of the Titans. The Warriors padded the lead to 33-15 at half time.

Egged on by its fans, the Titans played better in the second half. Ramon Agui, Karl Ebron and Luis Alvarez dropped a 15-10 bomb to reduce the Warriors lead to 13, at 43-30 midway in the second half. Agui made a jump shot and a three point play on a layup in that crucial stretch. However, De La Torre answered back with a basket to make it 45-30. Ebron however countered with a 3 point shot, to make it 45-33. That proved to be the last stand of the Titans, as De La Torre, Astoveza, Balagtas and Reynolds unleashed a 21-13 salvo to end the game with a final score of 66-46. Reynolds continued his dominance in the boards in that stretch hauling down 2 crucial rebounds to halt the Titans run.

In the dying seconds of the game, the crowd cheered on for Doctor Mel Madarang to convert a free throw. Madarang, who is also the Team Manager of the Warriors, obliged as he made his final free throw to put his name in the scoreboard.

“The height advantage is too much to overcome,” said Titans player Joneil Garcia. “Yes, we have the height advantage. However, they may have their big player as well in our next meeting with them,” said De La Torre, team captain of the GK Warriors. De La Torre is referring to Jason Del Rosario who is still in vacation in the Philippines.

Scores:
66 - GK Warriors: Tony Astoveza, 17; Sonny De La Torre,17; Dennis Balagtas, 14; Jim Reynolds, 13; Felix Vergara , 2; James Hoeffliger, 2; Doc Mel Madarang, 1

46 – Delaware Titans: Ramon Agui,13; Karl Ebron, 8, Luiz Alvarez, 7; Ed Ortega, 5; Eggie Alafriz, 4; Jorge Corotan,3; Dodjie Allarey, 2; D Tapel, 2, Joel Villamor 2