Mark "The Spark" back in town but only to cheer for his teammate.
After Barangay Ginebra’s heroic conquest of last year’s Fiesta Conference, Mark Caguioa made a beeline to the US to seek therapy for his two knees riddled with tendinitis. Several months, multiple assumptions and thousands of forum discussions later, The Spark is finally back! Well, back in the country at least. And that’s a start.Despite already being injured in last season’s Fiesta Conference finals showdown against Air 21, last season’s leading local scorer brushed it off, playing through the pain because that’s what you do when you are a hungry, focused, and determined competitor who would lay his life down for the game, the fans and the crown. The result; his third championship with the Kings, the franchise’s eighth title overall, and two very bad knees.
The 2001 Rookie of the Year, 2006-07 Philippine Cup Best Player of the Conference, and one of the most revered players in the league had everyone including his team, guessing when he’d come back. Reports of his recovery came as early as December 2008, but it was not until Game 2 of this roller-coaster of a Fiesta Conference semifinals series against Rain or Shine did the Spark emerge. The Kings certainly got a boost from seeing their fiery mohawked cohort at the sidelines of the packed Cuneta Astrodome last Friday and at the Big Dome Sunday, cheering them on, chanting with thousands of Barangay Ginebra allies.
“It’s great to be back” said the Spark, “I’m very proud of my teammates”.
Caguioa was as ecstatic as the crowd to be back but was quick to share that he’s not here to play or take his spot on the roster for the season.
“I’m here to support the team and give them moral support,” he explained.
Caguioa also said he’ll be back in the US when the season’s over to continue his tedious therapy. Apparently, the kind of therapy he’s been getting is not yet available in the Philippines.
“To be honest with you, I’d rather have an ACL than this”, talking about his patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee. “I was told several months ago to try jogging with it, and when I did, I reinjured my left knee and the pain is still there”.
Caguioa shared his frustration about the injury that vexes him as soon as he wakes up in the morning.
No jogging, no running, let alone pick-up games in the park in sunny California or temperamental Manila for MC47. For now the spitfire guard, who captured the hearts of millions and the imagination of many who play the game even in the far-flung barangays with their makeshift wooden backboards and twisted metal rings using their deflated mini rubber balls, has been relegated from a show stopper to an injured soldier.
The wait for his hardcourt return continues for PBA fans.
Locker Room
This is where REAL TALK happens
Josh Urbiztondo: All BIZness
He was all BIZness in the Finals. Scoring 19 points including crucial baskets down the stretch in a win or go home battle that helped the Pharex Bidang Generix force the series into a rubber match is one astonishing feat. Despite the outcome of the PBL Unity Cup championship, Josh Urbiztondo’s finals performance will augur well in his bid to enter the pros.
This 25 year old, half Filipino, quarter Greek, quarter Irish baller hails from Daly City but traces his paternal roots to Bulacan. He’s as sociable as any Greek, and as intense as an Irishman.
But despite the worldly traits him and his older brother Joshua have, they are more Filipino and have even influenced their mom Gail and their American relatives to embrace our culture and ways.
Josh’s father David, who migrated to the US when he was 16 years old, has been the one who shaped the cunning guard’s passion for basketball. “My dad was my coach from the 3rd grade to 8th grade. He started out as my coach then eventually became the school’s athletic director”. Josh also recalled how in all those years he played for the Immaculate Heart of Mary under his dad, they only lost 3 games, and he received numerous awards. His father also brought Josh to Jason Kidd’s high school games, so naturally he’s become his NBA idol.
Even after Josh went on to play for Hillsdale High School and won two league championships there and led the county in scoring, then played for 2 years at the Foothill College where he was again an all conference selection, his father never missed a game, filmed and critiqued all of them.
Guranteed in the Urbiztondo video library, his playing days in the Fresno Pacific Univesity where he started in all but two games in his junior and senior years are still well preserved. That’s where the battles between FPU and Biola were hardfought and epic. In the National Athletic Intercollegiate Association, he even got to play against the younger Sol Mercado but neither of them acknowledged or knew they were Filipino. (note: they’re friends now and hang out)
Josh would come to the Philippines to vacation with his family, but the first time he really considered coming to Manila to play ball was in 2004 while in junior college. His coach there was the one who suggested it, and connected him to an old college teammate who played here - Jeff Flowers.
But a full scholarship in FPU was offered to him which he could not resist. He eventually was given a scholar-athlete award for making an impact in school sports and for maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. After he acquired his business management degree, he contacted Jeff Flowers again found himself playing in the 2007 PBL season for Burger King where he was recognized as the best defensive player of the conference.
His stint was put off for a while as he returned to California to attend to some personal matters. While back there, he played in Pro-Am leagues and numerous Filipino leagues. He came back here in between conferences of this season’s PBL and played for another league until his services were needed by the Pharex Bidang Generix. Coach Carlo Tan soon learned how his newly acquired guard has the makings of a good leader, a reliable ball handler, and a sharp shooter and a great defender.
Urbiztondo will be making himself available for the upcoming draft, hoping that the impression he made would be enough to enter the pros. When asked to depict himself as a leader, he said “I lead by example and I’m vocal. Every body has different personalities and as a leader you have to be sensitive to that. You have to learn to communicate and when needed, be vocal on and off the court”.
This 25 year old, half Filipino, quarter Greek, quarter Irish baller hails from Daly City but traces his paternal roots to Bulacan. He’s as sociable as any Greek, and as intense as an Irishman.
But despite the worldly traits him and his older brother Joshua have, they are more Filipino and have even influenced their mom Gail and their American relatives to embrace our culture and ways.
Josh’s father David, who migrated to the US when he was 16 years old, has been the one who shaped the cunning guard’s passion for basketball. “My dad was my coach from the 3rd grade to 8th grade. He started out as my coach then eventually became the school’s athletic director”. Josh also recalled how in all those years he played for the Immaculate Heart of Mary under his dad, they only lost 3 games, and he received numerous awards. His father also brought Josh to Jason Kidd’s high school games, so naturally he’s become his NBA idol.
Even after Josh went on to play for Hillsdale High School and won two league championships there and led the county in scoring, then played for 2 years at the Foothill College where he was again an all conference selection, his father never missed a game, filmed and critiqued all of them.
Guranteed in the Urbiztondo video library, his playing days in the Fresno Pacific Univesity where he started in all but two games in his junior and senior years are still well preserved. That’s where the battles between FPU and Biola were hardfought and epic. In the National Athletic Intercollegiate Association, he even got to play against the younger Sol Mercado but neither of them acknowledged or knew they were Filipino. (note: they’re friends now and hang out)
Josh would come to the Philippines to vacation with his family, but the first time he really considered coming to Manila to play ball was in 2004 while in junior college. His coach there was the one who suggested it, and connected him to an old college teammate who played here - Jeff Flowers.
But a full scholarship in FPU was offered to him which he could not resist. He eventually was given a scholar-athlete award for making an impact in school sports and for maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. After he acquired his business management degree, he contacted Jeff Flowers again found himself playing in the 2007 PBL season for Burger King where he was recognized as the best defensive player of the conference.
His stint was put off for a while as he returned to California to attend to some personal matters. While back there, he played in Pro-Am leagues and numerous Filipino leagues. He came back here in between conferences of this season’s PBL and played for another league until his services were needed by the Pharex Bidang Generix. Coach Carlo Tan soon learned how his newly acquired guard has the makings of a good leader, a reliable ball handler, and a sharp shooter and a great defender.
Urbiztondo will be making himself available for the upcoming draft, hoping that the impression he made would be enough to enter the pros. When asked to depict himself as a leader, he said “I lead by example and I’m vocal. Every body has different personalities and as a leader you have to be sensitive to that. You have to learn to communicate and when needed, be vocal on and off the court”.
RP conquers SEABA
The Powerade Team Pilipinas were sent to the SEABA championships in Medan, Indonesia for a task a collegiate or amateur squad could have handled. But exposure was necessary, experience was needed. So we sent the best of the best to molest the competition and came home victorious. It was of course an expected feat though some critics would say it was overkill.
The downside of the nationals participating in that tourney is that the PBA’s schedule got screwed, and we had another injury. Good thing Ryan Reyes is young and can easily bounce back in time for Game 3 of the quarterfinals on Sunday. But overall, it’s all good. The team needed to build character, work on cohesiveness, and sharpen their running game. Check marks on all 3.
Here are the thoughts of some of the Powerade Team Pilipinas members on their SEABA experience which they sent to me through text:
Kerby Raymundo: “Good practice ulit for the team. We know how important the fast break for us is and we got a lot of points there… That’s our main weapon and nagawa naming halos lahat ng pinagawa ni coach Yeng. I think we need to be on top shape before FIBA Asia sa China kasi tatakbuhan namin lahat ng makakalaban namin.”
Arwind Santos: “I’m grateful and proud to be a member of the RP team. It was truly a learning experience for me. Malakas man o mahina man ang kalaban, kailangan prepared ka. Especially with a limited number of fit players that we have. You can never tell what will happen next. Kaya you always have to expect the unexpected and be ready for it.”
James Yap: “It was a good trip for us. Eventhough mainit sa venue, maliit lang ang lugar tapos ang dami daming tao, magandang sacrifice for us kase we gained experience. Nag gel kame as a team at got to know each other better. Yan ang importante."
Mick Penisi: “The whole trip was a great experience for us as a team. I felt it was more than just winning SEABA, it was also a team building experience. It’s something a team needs to bond off the court and more importantly to gel on the court – knowing your tendencies of your teammates which only playing games can do. So I really feel that we got more out of this trip than just qualifying for FIBA Asia.
The downside of the nationals participating in that tourney is that the PBA’s schedule got screwed, and we had another injury. Good thing Ryan Reyes is young and can easily bounce back in time for Game 3 of the quarterfinals on Sunday. But overall, it’s all good. The team needed to build character, work on cohesiveness, and sharpen their running game. Check marks on all 3.
Here are the thoughts of some of the Powerade Team Pilipinas members on their SEABA experience which they sent to me through text:
Kerby Raymundo: “Good practice ulit for the team. We know how important the fast break for us is and we got a lot of points there… That’s our main weapon and nagawa naming halos lahat ng pinagawa ni coach Yeng. I think we need to be on top shape before FIBA Asia sa China kasi tatakbuhan namin lahat ng makakalaban namin.”
Arwind Santos: “I’m grateful and proud to be a member of the RP team. It was truly a learning experience for me. Malakas man o mahina man ang kalaban, kailangan prepared ka. Especially with a limited number of fit players that we have. You can never tell what will happen next. Kaya you always have to expect the unexpected and be ready for it.”
James Yap: “It was a good trip for us. Eventhough mainit sa venue, maliit lang ang lugar tapos ang dami daming tao, magandang sacrifice for us kase we gained experience. Nag gel kame as a team at got to know each other better. Yan ang importante."
Mick Penisi: “The whole trip was a great experience for us as a team. I felt it was more than just winning SEABA, it was also a team building experience. It’s something a team needs to bond off the court and more importantly to gel on the court – knowing your tendencies of your teammates which only playing games can do. So I really feel that we got more out of this trip than just qualifying for FIBA Asia.
Suave
Puerto Rican-American air force officer Edwin Torres who hailed from Connecticut was assigned in Clark Airbase some 3 decades ago. This is where he met Sandra Sandoval who hailed from San Carlos, Negros Occidental and had two baby girls before they moved to Victorville, California.
A day before the 4th of July of 1985, Torres got his wish to have a baby boy and christened him as Edwin Daniel Torres Jr. Little did they know that he’d be an up and coming Philippine Basketball League superstar 24 years later.
That’s the beginning, but that’s not where it started. Back in his Oakhill Academy High School days in Wilson, Virginia where he got to play for four years, his deeply rooted passion for the sport was planted which fueled him to dedicate his time and energy to the sport.
So much work and dedication did he put in that he had a great showing against Virginia Commonwealth University’s standout Eric Maynor (predicted to go 13th in the upcoming NBA draft) back when they were in high school. And when pitted against West Forsyth High School’s Chris Paul (CP3! ‘Nuff said), Edwin was able to score 16 points in the first half alone.
Yes Chris Paul. They had another collision in a 5-star summer camp which Paul’s team won by 4 points, but Edwin bested him in scoring 26-22. That summer of 2002 was Edwin’s best summer as he reaped the benefits by getting recruited by several colleges.
After attending Shawnee Community College for 2 years, Edwin landed a spot in the NCAA D2 Virginia State University Mighty Trojans basketball team. His speed was his main arsenal, which got Trojan fans calling him Speedy Gonzalez, and just about any other Hispanic-ish monicker that denoted speed. Enrique Iglesias was one of the nicknames he got too. “Don’t ask me!” quipped the fil-am speedster. Maybe it’s the half Filipino-half Hispanic roots they both have (yes, Enrique Iglesias is half Filipino, his mom is Isabel Preysler! Did you know that?)
He used the basketball scholarship to the hilt and finished a degree in Business Management, which makes his parents absolutely proud. Another reason for their pride is Edwin’s appreciation of the Filipino culture (Like Enrique!). “I was raised more of a Filipino than Puerto Rican, eating Filipino food, observing Filipino ways, and even coming to the motherland almost every summer”. Edwin shared how they would get to San Carlo via boat from Cebu and how he’d be comfortable with the Visayan dialect. So Filipino is their environment that he says his dad’s more Pinoy now too. “He works for Boeing now and is stationed in Kuwait three months at a time. He’ll be coming here in a month and I’m hoping we’d still be in contention so he can watch me play”.
Edwin’s basketball career hit a road block last September. He came down here with all intents to show his polished wares in the PBL pre draft camp, but was cut after the first round of try outs. “I thought I was going to get picked. I felt like a failure”. He went back to the US and prepared to take his Master’s degree instead. A few months later though, former DLSU varsity player and father of Don Carlos Allado turned player-agent Caloy Allado delivered the news that the Magnolia Purewater Wizards needed his services.
Coach Coy Banal describes his shifty guard to be “hard working, defensive oriented, and has very high basketball IQ”. He created a buzz the moment he played against PBL’s top draft pick Chris Ross who came out frustrated with the in your face all the time defensive game of Torres. Experts have likened his game to that of Topex Robinson’s. (stop and think of the similarities….. )
Suave.
A day before the 4th of July of 1985, Torres got his wish to have a baby boy and christened him as Edwin Daniel Torres Jr. Little did they know that he’d be an up and coming Philippine Basketball League superstar 24 years later.
That’s the beginning, but that’s not where it started. Back in his Oakhill Academy High School days in Wilson, Virginia where he got to play for four years, his deeply rooted passion for the sport was planted which fueled him to dedicate his time and energy to the sport.
So much work and dedication did he put in that he had a great showing against Virginia Commonwealth University’s standout Eric Maynor (predicted to go 13th in the upcoming NBA draft) back when they were in high school. And when pitted against West Forsyth High School’s Chris Paul (CP3! ‘Nuff said), Edwin was able to score 16 points in the first half alone.
Yes Chris Paul. They had another collision in a 5-star summer camp which Paul’s team won by 4 points, but Edwin bested him in scoring 26-22. That summer of 2002 was Edwin’s best summer as he reaped the benefits by getting recruited by several colleges.
After attending Shawnee Community College for 2 years, Edwin landed a spot in the NCAA D2 Virginia State University Mighty Trojans basketball team. His speed was his main arsenal, which got Trojan fans calling him Speedy Gonzalez, and just about any other Hispanic-ish monicker that denoted speed. Enrique Iglesias was one of the nicknames he got too. “Don’t ask me!” quipped the fil-am speedster. Maybe it’s the half Filipino-half Hispanic roots they both have (yes, Enrique Iglesias is half Filipino, his mom is Isabel Preysler! Did you know that?)
He used the basketball scholarship to the hilt and finished a degree in Business Management, which makes his parents absolutely proud. Another reason for their pride is Edwin’s appreciation of the Filipino culture (Like Enrique!). “I was raised more of a Filipino than Puerto Rican, eating Filipino food, observing Filipino ways, and even coming to the motherland almost every summer”. Edwin shared how they would get to San Carlo via boat from Cebu and how he’d be comfortable with the Visayan dialect. So Filipino is their environment that he says his dad’s more Pinoy now too. “He works for Boeing now and is stationed in Kuwait three months at a time. He’ll be coming here in a month and I’m hoping we’d still be in contention so he can watch me play”.
Edwin’s basketball career hit a road block last September. He came down here with all intents to show his polished wares in the PBL pre draft camp, but was cut after the first round of try outs. “I thought I was going to get picked. I felt like a failure”. He went back to the US and prepared to take his Master’s degree instead. A few months later though, former DLSU varsity player and father of Don Carlos Allado turned player-agent Caloy Allado delivered the news that the Magnolia Purewater Wizards needed his services.
Coach Coy Banal describes his shifty guard to be “hard working, defensive oriented, and has very high basketball IQ”. He created a buzz the moment he played against PBL’s top draft pick Chris Ross who came out frustrated with the in your face all the time defensive game of Torres. Experts have likened his game to that of Topex Robinson’s. (stop and think of the similarities….. )
Suave.
Rollin' with Roel
He has proven his worth in the pro ranks, but he claims his younger brother also has game. PBA quality big man Reynel Hugnatan has proven himself worthy of Philippine Basketball’s winningest coach Tim Cone’s approval as one of the reliables on the Alaska Aces fold. He’s a four time PBA All star and was the MBA MVP in 2003.
But another Hugnatan might just be filling the shaded lane in the pros, should he have a stellar PBL performance. Roel, the third of the brood of 4, is looking to pursue a dream that has been ingrained in him since he harnessed his natural gift in the sport of basketball in high school.
Back in West Negros University, as a Sophomore, Roel buckled down to work to hone his baller skills. “That’s really where it all started”, he recalls. But 2 school years later, he was a prized big man of the Chinese Commercial High School squad of Iloilo which was still hung over on the James Yap fever. After the PBA MVP graduated, in came Roel, and Ken Bono who went on to win the UAAP MVP nod years later.
Moving to Iloilo meant a great deal for Roel, who left the creature comforts of home for the dorm life. But the sacrifices he made solidified his commitment to the sport. The Hugnatan-Bono combination was undeniably dominant as their teams won several championships in leagues around. They got discovered by then Adamson Head Coach Luigi Trillo whose squad won the University Games championship in 2002, and 1st runner up finishes in the Father Martin’s Cup and the MICABA with Hugnatan, Bono, Cabahug and Alonzo amongst others in the roster.
Trillo recalls how he discovered Roel whose brother Reynel was already popular in the MBA. “Roel is more of an inside operator than Reynel who plays multiple positions. Roel’s more of a banger who fears no one”. Coach Luigi also shared that Roel is very loyal, respects the game and is very coachable. He has high regards for the 6’5” workhorse who chose to take make his own way without the help of his eldest brother.
Reynel also paved his own way to stardom, so he advises his 24 year old brother to work hard and earn his keep. Like Coach Trillo, Reynel also describes his brother as a big man big time banger who also shows flashes of ball handling capabilities. He lauds his brother’s guts and work ethic. “Sinasabi ko sa kanya na parating maging masipag kase sa PBA hindi lang talent ang kailangan. Dapat intindihin nya ang coach at maging desidido sya sa commitment nyang mag laro”.
Roel’s still enjoying a steady rise in the amateurs. He’s been with the Lamoiyan franchise since the Happee-PCU days that had Jason Castro. Roel’s been part of the evolution of the team who’s still famished for a championship title after 4 finals stints. In fact the only remaining personalities from his rookie year are him and team manager Bernard Yang.
“Parang bahay ko na ‘to”, states Hugnatan who’s looked upon to help keep everything in check. Roel serves as the leader and motivator for the young Licealiz squad as they take a crack at the PG Flex Unity Cup title in what many say is one of the most competitive conference in years.
But another Hugnatan might just be filling the shaded lane in the pros, should he have a stellar PBL performance. Roel, the third of the brood of 4, is looking to pursue a dream that has been ingrained in him since he harnessed his natural gift in the sport of basketball in high school.
Back in West Negros University, as a Sophomore, Roel buckled down to work to hone his baller skills. “That’s really where it all started”, he recalls. But 2 school years later, he was a prized big man of the Chinese Commercial High School squad of Iloilo which was still hung over on the James Yap fever. After the PBA MVP graduated, in came Roel, and Ken Bono who went on to win the UAAP MVP nod years later.
Moving to Iloilo meant a great deal for Roel, who left the creature comforts of home for the dorm life. But the sacrifices he made solidified his commitment to the sport. The Hugnatan-Bono combination was undeniably dominant as their teams won several championships in leagues around. They got discovered by then Adamson Head Coach Luigi Trillo whose squad won the University Games championship in 2002, and 1st runner up finishes in the Father Martin’s Cup and the MICABA with Hugnatan, Bono, Cabahug and Alonzo amongst others in the roster.
Trillo recalls how he discovered Roel whose brother Reynel was already popular in the MBA. “Roel is more of an inside operator than Reynel who plays multiple positions. Roel’s more of a banger who fears no one”. Coach Luigi also shared that Roel is very loyal, respects the game and is very coachable. He has high regards for the 6’5” workhorse who chose to take make his own way without the help of his eldest brother.
Reynel also paved his own way to stardom, so he advises his 24 year old brother to work hard and earn his keep. Like Coach Trillo, Reynel also describes his brother as a big man big time banger who also shows flashes of ball handling capabilities. He lauds his brother’s guts and work ethic. “Sinasabi ko sa kanya na parating maging masipag kase sa PBA hindi lang talent ang kailangan. Dapat intindihin nya ang coach at maging desidido sya sa commitment nyang mag laro”.
Roel’s still enjoying a steady rise in the amateurs. He’s been with the Lamoiyan franchise since the Happee-PCU days that had Jason Castro. Roel’s been part of the evolution of the team who’s still famished for a championship title after 4 finals stints. In fact the only remaining personalities from his rookie year are him and team manager Bernard Yang.
“Parang bahay ko na ‘to”, states Hugnatan who’s looked upon to help keep everything in check. Roel serves as the leader and motivator for the young Licealiz squad as they take a crack at the PG Flex Unity Cup title in what many say is one of the most competitive conference in years.
Achtung Babies
Maierhoffer and Knuttel. Family names that are about as common as a solar eclipse. At least here in the Philippines. But in the amateur basketball world, these names are about as known or as common as a jeepney stopping in the middle of the road to drop off and pick up passengers right beside a no loading and unloading sign.
Rico Maierhoffer ofcourse is no stranger to Pinoy basketball fanatics. He’s either adored like a demi-god in green or abhorred. He’s a talented basketball player who is one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming pro draft and the future looks bright for the 6’6’ versatile, sweet shooting, aggressive, and smart big man from the proud De La Salle University.
Jens (‘yens’) Knuttel only has two years of college ball under his belt in the distinguished Far Easter University talent pool but he’s branding himself as an intense, intelligent, speedy point guard. This is his PBL debut after being a back up, practice point to Boyet Bautista in Harbour Center’s 6th championship run. Now he’s being given a chance to showcase his wares and be part of the new Oracle Titans tradition.
Rico and Jens have a lot more in common than just exotic last names, basketball skills, and a future in the this sport. They’re both half German, both are not from Manila, both didn’t start in basketball, and both come from BIG families. Here’s the lowdown.
The Knuttels are from Zamboanga. Deiter, now a retired service man at 73 years of age, started his family with Vizminda Baylon, 45, now a retired nurse, in Germany where the first few children were born. Jens is the fourth of 7, yes S-E-V-E-N kids. The eldest is 27, while the youngest was born just 5 years ago. They migrated from Heidelberg Germany, to the Latin city of Zamboanga when Jens was 2 years old, 17 years ago.
Jens started out playing soccer, and even played for his school. He also dabbled in a multitude of other sports, but when he got influenced by friends to join a summer clinic, all his energy was directed to the point of obsession to basketball. “Basketball is my life, I can’t live without it. When I wake up in the morning, before I sleep, all I think about is basketball. Sometimes I even forget to eat”, admitted the light brown-haired 5’9” project.
It all started when he joined the Palarong Pambansa where the San Beda coaches took interest in him. Unfortunately, he got edged out by another prospect who fit their system better, so he missed out. But he was recommended to then FEU-FERN Coaching staff which included the hard working, dedicated, handsome, smart (he’s a friend hence the bias) Potit De Vera. He showed enough promise for FERN to process his transfer from Ateneo de Zamboanga to Manila. Soon after, FEU FERN made it to the finals but saw the Ateneo Juniors on the Champion’s podium.
“Basketball changed my life and made me independent” said Jens, who’s been living in Manila, away from his family for 4 years now. One of his unforgettable experiences here was his first birthday away from home, where Coach Potit and his wife, who didn’t have children at that time, took him out and treated him like their own.
The Maeirhofers have a pretty similar set up as the Knuttels. Originally from Gratz Germany, Rudolf Paul who is now in his 70s, met Elenita Galenzoga, who is now in her 40s, in the Philippines and had their first born, Paul Rico. Apart from keeping a family with 7, yes S-E-V-E-N kids (well, going on 7), they also are the proud owners of the Tropicana Castle Resort in the fun and fabulous stomping grounds of Puerto Gallera.
Rico didn’t get started in basketball either. Many already know how he played for the Puerto Gallera Academy volleyball team before coming to Manila on a whim with his mother, not even knowing if La Salle had practice to see if he can try out. As fate would have it, that chance they took led them to Coach Franz Pumaren, who was actually running the ICTSI-DLSU practice at that time. He was all too eager to take in a walk in with that height, with hops, and with so much potential.
“Being under Coach Franz is an honor for me. He helped me from the beginning nung wala akong masyadong alam sa basketball”, beamed Rico who sees Franz as more than just a coach, but a true mentor, almost like a father. He also shares the same sentiments when talking about La Salle and how it’s been such a privilege to be part of a great and supportive community.
With very similar backgrounds and goals in life, it’s no surprise that Rico and Jens get along famously. Watching them in practice and seeing them even on the bench shows how fun their friendship is. (keep an eye out for their high-fives when one of them goes back to the bench)
“Jens is like a little brother. We have the same roots, parehong makulit, funny, parating enjoy, pero pareho din kaming hardworking” shared Rico.
“Rico and I are serious and hardworking even in practice but we know how to have fun. I actually don’t feel complete when he’s not there”, quipped the younger half-breed baller who always is teasing Rico, cat calling, and bumping him to get a good laugh and make the intense Glenn Capacio-run practices seem easier.
There are more similarities between that two that naturally draws them to one another.
Determination is one.
They both have dreams of making it to the pros and they both work hard outside the confines of the court to get closer to their goals.
Rico knows that people either love or hate him because he’s such an intense player that can serve as the spark plug of his squad and the monkey wrench thrown on the opponent’s game. He’s working on beefing up to prepare for the more physically demanding battles in the pros, and he’s doing what he can to even better his court speed which is his main weapon.
Jens who is as determined to succeed like his FEU mentors Denok Miranda and Jonas Villanueva, lives by Steve Nash’s words of how a true character of a person is shown by how much he works when no one’s watching.
Rico Maierhoffer ofcourse is no stranger to Pinoy basketball fanatics. He’s either adored like a demi-god in green or abhorred. He’s a talented basketball player who is one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming pro draft and the future looks bright for the 6’6’ versatile, sweet shooting, aggressive, and smart big man from the proud De La Salle University.
Jens (‘yens’) Knuttel only has two years of college ball under his belt in the distinguished Far Easter University talent pool but he’s branding himself as an intense, intelligent, speedy point guard. This is his PBL debut after being a back up, practice point to Boyet Bautista in Harbour Center’s 6th championship run. Now he’s being given a chance to showcase his wares and be part of the new Oracle Titans tradition.
Rico and Jens have a lot more in common than just exotic last names, basketball skills, and a future in the this sport. They’re both half German, both are not from Manila, both didn’t start in basketball, and both come from BIG families. Here’s the lowdown.
The Knuttels are from Zamboanga. Deiter, now a retired service man at 73 years of age, started his family with Vizminda Baylon, 45, now a retired nurse, in Germany where the first few children were born. Jens is the fourth of 7, yes S-E-V-E-N kids. The eldest is 27, while the youngest was born just 5 years ago. They migrated from Heidelberg Germany, to the Latin city of Zamboanga when Jens was 2 years old, 17 years ago.
Jens started out playing soccer, and even played for his school. He also dabbled in a multitude of other sports, but when he got influenced by friends to join a summer clinic, all his energy was directed to the point of obsession to basketball. “Basketball is my life, I can’t live without it. When I wake up in the morning, before I sleep, all I think about is basketball. Sometimes I even forget to eat”, admitted the light brown-haired 5’9” project.
It all started when he joined the Palarong Pambansa where the San Beda coaches took interest in him. Unfortunately, he got edged out by another prospect who fit their system better, so he missed out. But he was recommended to then FEU-FERN Coaching staff which included the hard working, dedicated, handsome, smart (he’s a friend hence the bias) Potit De Vera. He showed enough promise for FERN to process his transfer from Ateneo de Zamboanga to Manila. Soon after, FEU FERN made it to the finals but saw the Ateneo Juniors on the Champion’s podium.
“Basketball changed my life and made me independent” said Jens, who’s been living in Manila, away from his family for 4 years now. One of his unforgettable experiences here was his first birthday away from home, where Coach Potit and his wife, who didn’t have children at that time, took him out and treated him like their own.
The Maeirhofers have a pretty similar set up as the Knuttels. Originally from Gratz Germany, Rudolf Paul who is now in his 70s, met Elenita Galenzoga, who is now in her 40s, in the Philippines and had their first born, Paul Rico. Apart from keeping a family with 7, yes S-E-V-E-N kids (well, going on 7), they also are the proud owners of the Tropicana Castle Resort in the fun and fabulous stomping grounds of Puerto Gallera.
Rico didn’t get started in basketball either. Many already know how he played for the Puerto Gallera Academy volleyball team before coming to Manila on a whim with his mother, not even knowing if La Salle had practice to see if he can try out. As fate would have it, that chance they took led them to Coach Franz Pumaren, who was actually running the ICTSI-DLSU practice at that time. He was all too eager to take in a walk in with that height, with hops, and with so much potential.
“Being under Coach Franz is an honor for me. He helped me from the beginning nung wala akong masyadong alam sa basketball”, beamed Rico who sees Franz as more than just a coach, but a true mentor, almost like a father. He also shares the same sentiments when talking about La Salle and how it’s been such a privilege to be part of a great and supportive community.
With very similar backgrounds and goals in life, it’s no surprise that Rico and Jens get along famously. Watching them in practice and seeing them even on the bench shows how fun their friendship is. (keep an eye out for their high-fives when one of them goes back to the bench)
“Jens is like a little brother. We have the same roots, parehong makulit, funny, parating enjoy, pero pareho din kaming hardworking” shared Rico.
“Rico and I are serious and hardworking even in practice but we know how to have fun. I actually don’t feel complete when he’s not there”, quipped the younger half-breed baller who always is teasing Rico, cat calling, and bumping him to get a good laugh and make the intense Glenn Capacio-run practices seem easier.
There are more similarities between that two that naturally draws them to one another.
Determination is one.
They both have dreams of making it to the pros and they both work hard outside the confines of the court to get closer to their goals.
Rico knows that people either love or hate him because he’s such an intense player that can serve as the spark plug of his squad and the monkey wrench thrown on the opponent’s game. He’s working on beefing up to prepare for the more physically demanding battles in the pros, and he’s doing what he can to even better his court speed which is his main weapon.
Jens who is as determined to succeed like his FEU mentors Denok Miranda and Jonas Villanueva, lives by Steve Nash’s words of how a true character of a person is shown by how much he works when no one’s watching.
At a gLANCE
Scottie Pippen once said “Pressure can burst a pipe or pressure can make a diamond”.
During Happee Toothpaste’s last semis stand against Harbor almighty, there was a player courageous enough to take the pressure filled last shot. It would have been an end game 3 point winning basket for the team to live to fight another day. But the shot was short. Game over.
This is not to liken him to a busted pipe. Absolutely not. He certainly came out of it with the makings of a diamond – there’s brilliance there like no other, and it was evident with his career high ___ points. He’s the gutsy Lance Convento.
At 24 years of age, he’s been dedicated to the sport for 2 decades already. His father Romeo, a computer salesman, has always been a basketball fanatic and was as huge an influence as Michael Jordan, Grant Hill and Rey Allen were to the doe-eyed young baller who grew up watching as much US NCAA wars and NBA while studying in Cerritos Elementary and High School in California.
Lance’s talent was evident particularly in high school where he became part of the 1st team all league, he got the MVP award in his senior year, and a couple of more MVP plums in other tournaments he joined. “High school was when I had the time of my life, from the friends I made to the skills I picked up”, he recalled.
So engrossed was he to the sport that he ended up going to Cal-State Fullerton to study Kineseology, a fall back should basketball not be part of his future. But the way it’s looking now, plan B will have to wait. The boy from Long Beach is definitely making waves in the PBL as Happee Toothpaste’s savvy court general and as a future PBA draft prospect.
He’s happy to end up with a Christian organization, and praised the management for “being good people who share similar morals”. It’s quite rare that you find a player who sees things that way. He’s also grateful to be under the wings of Coach Gee Abanilla. “He’s an excellent coach, not too strict or lenient; he was a player before so he really understands the game. I have a lot of respect for him”.
Before making the big move to Manila, Lance got to play with the LA Showtime Team with his childhood family friend, now next door neighbor and mentor, Ryan Reyes, and other PBA players like Chris Pacana. The pros tell him to play like he did back home and he should be alright. Well, Lance is an excellent leader on the court, very unselfish and has a lot of hustle in him – a good fit for the pros.
He admits though that he’s still working on being more vocal and consistent, and he wants to be stronger and quicker. Everyday he has those goals in mind, as he goes from his 2 bedroom apartment which he shares with fellow rookie Josh Vanlandingham, to practice and to the gym. “That’s all we do”.
Lance is living on his own for the first time, half the world away from the creature comforts of home. It’s been tough to catch a cab or take other means of public transportation every day but the 250 peso per hour home massages more than make up for the discomforts. Josh and Lance eat out everyday and play video games while taking turns sitting on their one and only chair in their empty living room. Despite all that, he’s quite positive and upbeat about the opportunity given to him here.
A quick glance at this prospect and you’ll know that he’s got a great future ahead of him. Don’t be deceived by the boyish appearance and the quiet demeanor. He’s matured from his first game to the final push in the semis in his debuting conference. PBL fans are excited to see how far Happee’s ace point guard will take the team in the next conference.
During Happee Toothpaste’s last semis stand against Harbor almighty, there was a player courageous enough to take the pressure filled last shot. It would have been an end game 3 point winning basket for the team to live to fight another day. But the shot was short. Game over.
This is not to liken him to a busted pipe. Absolutely not. He certainly came out of it with the makings of a diamond – there’s brilliance there like no other, and it was evident with his career high ___ points. He’s the gutsy Lance Convento.
At 24 years of age, he’s been dedicated to the sport for 2 decades already. His father Romeo, a computer salesman, has always been a basketball fanatic and was as huge an influence as Michael Jordan, Grant Hill and Rey Allen were to the doe-eyed young baller who grew up watching as much US NCAA wars and NBA while studying in Cerritos Elementary and High School in California.
Lance’s talent was evident particularly in high school where he became part of the 1st team all league, he got the MVP award in his senior year, and a couple of more MVP plums in other tournaments he joined. “High school was when I had the time of my life, from the friends I made to the skills I picked up”, he recalled.
So engrossed was he to the sport that he ended up going to Cal-State Fullerton to study Kineseology, a fall back should basketball not be part of his future. But the way it’s looking now, plan B will have to wait. The boy from Long Beach is definitely making waves in the PBL as Happee Toothpaste’s savvy court general and as a future PBA draft prospect.
He’s happy to end up with a Christian organization, and praised the management for “being good people who share similar morals”. It’s quite rare that you find a player who sees things that way. He’s also grateful to be under the wings of Coach Gee Abanilla. “He’s an excellent coach, not too strict or lenient; he was a player before so he really understands the game. I have a lot of respect for him”.
Before making the big move to Manila, Lance got to play with the LA Showtime Team with his childhood family friend, now next door neighbor and mentor, Ryan Reyes, and other PBA players like Chris Pacana. The pros tell him to play like he did back home and he should be alright. Well, Lance is an excellent leader on the court, very unselfish and has a lot of hustle in him – a good fit for the pros.
He admits though that he’s still working on being more vocal and consistent, and he wants to be stronger and quicker. Everyday he has those goals in mind, as he goes from his 2 bedroom apartment which he shares with fellow rookie Josh Vanlandingham, to practice and to the gym. “That’s all we do”.
Lance is living on his own for the first time, half the world away from the creature comforts of home. It’s been tough to catch a cab or take other means of public transportation every day but the 250 peso per hour home massages more than make up for the discomforts. Josh and Lance eat out everyday and play video games while taking turns sitting on their one and only chair in their empty living room. Despite all that, he’s quite positive and upbeat about the opportunity given to him here.
A quick glance at this prospect and you’ll know that he’s got a great future ahead of him. Don’t be deceived by the boyish appearance and the quiet demeanor. He’s matured from his first game to the final push in the semis in his debuting conference. PBL fans are excited to see how far Happee’s ace point guard will take the team in the next conference.
Vanlandingham, THREE!
Deep in 3 point territory… That’s where Josh Vanlandingham made his mark in the Philippine Basketball League. In his rookie conference, he averaged 9 pts per game with a 42 % shooting clip from beyond the arc which tops the league. Though he showed his capability to slash inside, it was mainly his long bomb arsenal that had his name boom throughout the battle ground.
Get to know three points on Josh Thomas Vanlandingham.
Point number 1- he’s from a champion line.
Josh’s maternal great grandfather is two time Olympian Teofilo “The Ilocano Shark” Yldefonso who got a bronze medal in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics’ 200 meter breaststroke event and then another bronze in the same competition in Los Angeles 4 years later. Teofilo Yldefonso is still recognized as one of the best swimmers the country has ever produced. But Josh didn’t know about this until his grandmother lectured him on his lineage before he packed his bags to try his luck in the Philippines.
Josh was born and raised in Seattle. His parents Mark and Karen encouraged him to pick up the sport of basketball at a tender age of 5 and involved him in a league when he was in his first grade at the Seattle Hill Elementary School. It was here where he became determined to master the sport, because in the entire year, he only scored 2 points on a fast break. The entire year!
But all that determination and competitive spirit running through his veins took him from that 2 point lay-in to becoming Athlete of the Year when he went to Everet Community College by averaging 19 points a ball game.
Point number 2 – he played against Brandon Roy!
Back in his Snohomish High School days, during his senior year, they had a shot at a 4th place finish in a tournament where they played against Brandon Roy’s Garfield High School. The NBA 2006-2007 Rookie of the Year most definitely brought out his A game and was scorching from all fronts. Despite that, Josh Vanlandingham had a shot at upsetting the Bulldogs. Down the wire though, they were behind only one point, and Josh had possession. But he bricked the last attempt, and the game went to Roy’s team.
Despite the loss, Vanlandingham takes it as a valuable, unforgettable chapter in his life. Enough to fuel him to work on his game even more. He’s a John Wooden disciple and lives by the basketball guru’s words – “Make every practice your masterpiece. Work hard every day to be where you want to be”.
In the eliminations of the PG Flex Linoleum Cup, Josh made his first ever end game winning shot with a trey which put the nail on the coffin of the Magnolia opposition.
In that extraordinary masterpiece play from beyond the arc, he harnessed the mojo of his Airness Michael Jordan, his all time favorite. “I love how he can take over basketball games and how he wanted the last shot”, shares Josh, whose own last shot was replayed many times over in BTV’s highlight reels.
Point number 3 – He’s a book worm.
Josh loves to read. Many stereotype jocks as a no read no write type of breed, but obviously Josh is one of the many who dispel that notion (although mind you there are some who average two syllables per word). He just finished reading “Five People You Meet In Heaven” by Mitch Albom, a book lent to him by neighbor and friend Ryan Reyes – a fellow book worm. It’s a story about Eddie, a simple man who led a normal life till a freak accident took it all away. He crossed paths with five people who have significantly made an impact in his life on earth in heaven. And each person he reconnected with in the after life provided him with divine wisdom. It’s a wonderful read, I’ve been a fan of the book since 2004.
“I learned about how your life can affect other people even if you don’t know it”, shares Josh, who truly comes across as some one who is conscientious with his dealings with people knowing that what he does can impinge or shape someone’s being.
He’s an ideal roommate for fellow Happee rookie Lance Convento who found him to be quiet in the beginning but learned about his new best friend’s good nature.
Josh Vanlandingham could be a force to reckon with in the amateur ranks, and his dream to reach the pros could bear fruit with the work ethic he has shown, the mental toughness and sweet shooting touch. He knows he’s got to buckle down and work on his defense though and be more of an all around player, something that his Coach Gee Abanilla is set to harness on his young gun.
Get to know three points on Josh Thomas Vanlandingham.
Point number 1- he’s from a champion line.
Josh’s maternal great grandfather is two time Olympian Teofilo “The Ilocano Shark” Yldefonso who got a bronze medal in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics’ 200 meter breaststroke event and then another bronze in the same competition in Los Angeles 4 years later. Teofilo Yldefonso is still recognized as one of the best swimmers the country has ever produced. But Josh didn’t know about this until his grandmother lectured him on his lineage before he packed his bags to try his luck in the Philippines.
Josh was born and raised in Seattle. His parents Mark and Karen encouraged him to pick up the sport of basketball at a tender age of 5 and involved him in a league when he was in his first grade at the Seattle Hill Elementary School. It was here where he became determined to master the sport, because in the entire year, he only scored 2 points on a fast break. The entire year!
But all that determination and competitive spirit running through his veins took him from that 2 point lay-in to becoming Athlete of the Year when he went to Everet Community College by averaging 19 points a ball game.
Point number 2 – he played against Brandon Roy!
Back in his Snohomish High School days, during his senior year, they had a shot at a 4th place finish in a tournament where they played against Brandon Roy’s Garfield High School. The NBA 2006-2007 Rookie of the Year most definitely brought out his A game and was scorching from all fronts. Despite that, Josh Vanlandingham had a shot at upsetting the Bulldogs. Down the wire though, they were behind only one point, and Josh had possession. But he bricked the last attempt, and the game went to Roy’s team.
Despite the loss, Vanlandingham takes it as a valuable, unforgettable chapter in his life. Enough to fuel him to work on his game even more. He’s a John Wooden disciple and lives by the basketball guru’s words – “Make every practice your masterpiece. Work hard every day to be where you want to be”.
In the eliminations of the PG Flex Linoleum Cup, Josh made his first ever end game winning shot with a trey which put the nail on the coffin of the Magnolia opposition.
In that extraordinary masterpiece play from beyond the arc, he harnessed the mojo of his Airness Michael Jordan, his all time favorite. “I love how he can take over basketball games and how he wanted the last shot”, shares Josh, whose own last shot was replayed many times over in BTV’s highlight reels.
Point number 3 – He’s a book worm.
Josh loves to read. Many stereotype jocks as a no read no write type of breed, but obviously Josh is one of the many who dispel that notion (although mind you there are some who average two syllables per word). He just finished reading “Five People You Meet In Heaven” by Mitch Albom, a book lent to him by neighbor and friend Ryan Reyes – a fellow book worm. It’s a story about Eddie, a simple man who led a normal life till a freak accident took it all away. He crossed paths with five people who have significantly made an impact in his life on earth in heaven. And each person he reconnected with in the after life provided him with divine wisdom. It’s a wonderful read, I’ve been a fan of the book since 2004.
“I learned about how your life can affect other people even if you don’t know it”, shares Josh, who truly comes across as some one who is conscientious with his dealings with people knowing that what he does can impinge or shape someone’s being.
He’s an ideal roommate for fellow Happee rookie Lance Convento who found him to be quiet in the beginning but learned about his new best friend’s good nature.
Josh Vanlandingham could be a force to reckon with in the amateur ranks, and his dream to reach the pros could bear fruit with the work ethic he has shown, the mental toughness and sweet shooting touch. He knows he’s got to buckle down and work on his defense though and be more of an all around player, something that his Coach Gee Abanilla is set to harness on his young gun.
Reed This!
So much has been said and written about Harbour Center’s hot shooting go to court veteran Reed Juntilla. His heroics on the court have not gone unnoticed with a team-high eliminations average of 15.4 points and a 43% shooting clip from rainbow country. His game has stabbed sharp daggers to the hearts of his rivals, and he leaves them stunned, motionless and groping for dear life. His court composure is commendable, especially come winning time. When you need a guy to take a last second shot for the win, Reed would be on top of the list. Crunch time is Reed time!
But because of personal decisions made off court, his brilliance as a player at times gets overshadowed. To the outsider, Reed is simply a force to reckon with on court. In the basketball circles though, they reckon he’d have a cloud of issues looming over him. But who doesn’t?
It’s no secret that Reed wasted several opportunities in the past including the chapter when he went AWOL while with his pro-team the Red Bull Barakos. It was a golden opportunity for him as he was slowly becoming a household name to all basketball crazed fans; especially because he quickly showed his abilities to be a hard-nosed soldier of Coach Yeng Guiao who expects nothing but all out war whenever his wards would step on the field of battle. This feat earned him a 2 year contract, which is astonishing for a player that got overlooked and passed on in the 2007 PBA draft. Imagine that!
But, without warning, he disappeared to Cebu to be with his girlfriend and turned his back on his contract – a contract that thousands of players who believe they can, can’t get!
For some time, teams who always have room for his level of talent were hesitant to take him in. But the ship changed its course and docked at Harbour Center. Being signed by the Batang Pier attests how Reed has sorted out his dilemmas or at least committed to leaving his issues off the court, off the court!
Reed Friar was born in Carmen, Cebu to Joselyn (formerly Ortisano) and Hernan Juntilla. His father, now an OFW working as an electrician in Dubai, spent much of his time teaching his only son the basics of the sport he truly loved. And all those times watching their favorite squad Sunkist really fired up the passion for basketball. Reed followed the career and moves of his ultimate idol Vergel Meneses. As early as 12, Reed broke through the local leagues by being the only “child” invited and allowed to play in the Carmen selection which competed in provincial invitationals. Despite his age, he was able to take his 18 year old opponents and teammates to school. That’s how good he was. So good that the University of Visayas gave him a high school scholarship.
High school saw Reed win the MVP honors as a rookie! He was already making quite an impression in the sports crazy city of the Visayas.
After playing only 1 game in college for UV (yes, just 1 game), Reed got invited to come and play in the Philippine Basketball League – where dreams are made. Happee Toothpaste got instant offense from their new Cebuano hotshot and the prospect of getting a championship became bright.
But, just like getting your tooth pulled out, Reed made the painful decision to the leave his maiden squad who managed a 3rd place finish to try his luck with Montana.
Joining fellow gunner Alex Compton, Montana sparkled and capped the conference with a championship crown. But Reed still didn’t feel quite at home after a year and a half, and went back to Happee.
Reed again went all out and had a grand conference for himself. And because of that, he got an invitation to turn pro via Red Bull. And we already know how that panned out.
When he went AWOL, Reed cleaned house and straightened up his wrinkled personal life. The boy who was named after a priest went through a rediscovery phase and realized the opportunity he turned his back to.
American Philosopher William James once said “He who refuses to embrace a unique opportunity loses the prize as surely as if he had failed”.
Well, Reed didn’t want to be a failure. That 12 year old boy who proved he’d be the king of the court one day came a knocking on his conscience and reignited the dream. Now at 24 years of age, Reed realized that he’s got to man up for his future and for the children he someday wishes to bring to this world with wife Lorelie. “Basketball will help me achieve a better life” admits the hard court soldier.
Harbour Head Coach Jorge Gallent says that “Reed is a very good individual player, he plays better defense now and he passes the ball better. He makes his team mates better. He wants the ball at crunch time and he’s not scared to take the last shot”.
Now that Reed Juntilla has sailed many rough seas and finally docked in Harbour Center, he hopes (and the team hopes) that it’ll be smooth sailing from here on now as they try to conquer their 6th straight crown.
But because of personal decisions made off court, his brilliance as a player at times gets overshadowed. To the outsider, Reed is simply a force to reckon with on court. In the basketball circles though, they reckon he’d have a cloud of issues looming over him. But who doesn’t?
It’s no secret that Reed wasted several opportunities in the past including the chapter when he went AWOL while with his pro-team the Red Bull Barakos. It was a golden opportunity for him as he was slowly becoming a household name to all basketball crazed fans; especially because he quickly showed his abilities to be a hard-nosed soldier of Coach Yeng Guiao who expects nothing but all out war whenever his wards would step on the field of battle. This feat earned him a 2 year contract, which is astonishing for a player that got overlooked and passed on in the 2007 PBA draft. Imagine that!
But, without warning, he disappeared to Cebu to be with his girlfriend and turned his back on his contract – a contract that thousands of players who believe they can, can’t get!
For some time, teams who always have room for his level of talent were hesitant to take him in. But the ship changed its course and docked at Harbour Center. Being signed by the Batang Pier attests how Reed has sorted out his dilemmas or at least committed to leaving his issues off the court, off the court!
Reed Friar was born in Carmen, Cebu to Joselyn (formerly Ortisano) and Hernan Juntilla. His father, now an OFW working as an electrician in Dubai, spent much of his time teaching his only son the basics of the sport he truly loved. And all those times watching their favorite squad Sunkist really fired up the passion for basketball. Reed followed the career and moves of his ultimate idol Vergel Meneses. As early as 12, Reed broke through the local leagues by being the only “child” invited and allowed to play in the Carmen selection which competed in provincial invitationals. Despite his age, he was able to take his 18 year old opponents and teammates to school. That’s how good he was. So good that the University of Visayas gave him a high school scholarship.
High school saw Reed win the MVP honors as a rookie! He was already making quite an impression in the sports crazy city of the Visayas.
After playing only 1 game in college for UV (yes, just 1 game), Reed got invited to come and play in the Philippine Basketball League – where dreams are made. Happee Toothpaste got instant offense from their new Cebuano hotshot and the prospect of getting a championship became bright.
But, just like getting your tooth pulled out, Reed made the painful decision to the leave his maiden squad who managed a 3rd place finish to try his luck with Montana.
Joining fellow gunner Alex Compton, Montana sparkled and capped the conference with a championship crown. But Reed still didn’t feel quite at home after a year and a half, and went back to Happee.
Reed again went all out and had a grand conference for himself. And because of that, he got an invitation to turn pro via Red Bull. And we already know how that panned out.
When he went AWOL, Reed cleaned house and straightened up his wrinkled personal life. The boy who was named after a priest went through a rediscovery phase and realized the opportunity he turned his back to.
American Philosopher William James once said “He who refuses to embrace a unique opportunity loses the prize as surely as if he had failed”.
Well, Reed didn’t want to be a failure. That 12 year old boy who proved he’d be the king of the court one day came a knocking on his conscience and reignited the dream. Now at 24 years of age, Reed realized that he’s got to man up for his future and for the children he someday wishes to bring to this world with wife Lorelie. “Basketball will help me achieve a better life” admits the hard court soldier.
Harbour Head Coach Jorge Gallent says that “Reed is a very good individual player, he plays better defense now and he passes the ball better. He makes his team mates better. He wants the ball at crunch time and he’s not scared to take the last shot”.
Now that Reed Juntilla has sailed many rough seas and finally docked in Harbour Center, he hopes (and the team hopes) that it’ll be smooth sailing from here on now as they try to conquer their 6th straight crown.
Stunning Determination
Determination can carry a person through any kind of difficulty in life. People who are determined always rise up to challenges, and become better individuals, with improved dispositions and enhanced outlooks. Burger King Stunners Mac Baracael and Ogie Menor have achieved just that. Basketball has given them the ability to get up and stand tall amidst trials that can make a lesser man call it quits.
Romar and Rolly Menor mentored their younger sibling to seriously pursue a basketball career. Both played in the Cebuana L’Huillier RP Team alongside tough guns like Celino Cruz and Marc Pingris. But the Menor boys went undrafted in the pros, though Rolly had a stint with Harbour back in 2004, and Romar played for Davao and Laguna in the defunct MBA. Anyone who remembers them would note their burly physique, which paved the way for them to be working as fitness instructors in Dubai. It’s been a long journey for these two former players who played for Benilde and now are moonlighting in basketball leagues in the Middle East.
Ogie is destined to go farther in his basketball career compared to his brothers. “Mas maganda college career ko kase champion team kame. Mas maganda exposure dahil televised games namin”, shared the King Lion. Indeed his stint with NCAA kings San Beda under the tutelage of former pro turned indefatigable coach Frankie Lim holds a lot of promise. Plus, who can forget that mohawked banger and dependable go to guy who was crucial in San Beda’s three championship domination? He’s definitely made his mark.
Burger King assistant Coach Jerry Codinera is impressed with the 21 year old Menor’s work ethic and drive adding that “he has no way to go but up”. Even head coach Allan Gregorio is amazed at Menor who he said is a consistent student, who practices hard with his college team from 7 to 9am, then gives him the same kind of intensity by their 11am Burger King practice.
He has humble beginnings. His father is a driver from Isabela and his mom owns a sari-sari store. Basketball has made him independent and even made him a dependable son as he helps his parents financially. “Kung ‘di sa basketball siguro nasa bukid ako, nagtatanim ng palay, mais at gulay” quipped Ogie.
Mac Baracael. Where do we start?
He was shot by a still unidentified gunman some months ago and fought for dear life. It was all over the news, so no need to evade the issue. The FEU gunner was coming of a hot UAAP season and for some time, it wasn’t sure if he was to rise up from this difficult trial.
Mac picked up the sport when he was in the 6th grade then went to Talipan National High School in Quezon Province where he was a dominating 6’3” workhorse. He even showed his wares in the baranggay leagues there. His parents could not afford to send him to school so his only way to go to college was through basketball. He got his big break when Johnny Tam saw his hard court gift at 18 years old playing for the RP Youth squad. The ball rolled from then on.
Coach Allan was proud to say that Mac comes from the gym before practice and does plyometrics after. “He’s happy and everyone’s glad. He has become more of a leader with more zest in life knowing he was given another chance”. Baracael really has dedicated this second life to be one of the more notable wingmen in the amateur ranks. He’s 23 years old and has many basketball years ahead of him. Codinera is impressed with his versatility and his intelligence on the hard court. “He’s a complete player who will go a long way”.
His father works in construction, as his mom sells in the market and tends to his other siblings in the province. Mac’s 8 year old sister Abigail succumbed to pulmonary disease 2 years ago. His year younger sister Agnes is still in school and 14 year old Marvin is showing interest in basketball as well. His family inspires Mac to work hard so he can also help uplift their lives.
Indeed, basketball has paved the way for Baracael reach his goals in life. And it was that urge to get back on the hard court and answer the call of duty that has stirred him to fight. To commemorate that life altering experience, Mac Baracael has changed his jersey number from 12 to 45. Yes, as in that .45 caliber which shot him twice in the back and reportedly punctured his lung last July 24 just a stone’s throw away from FEU.
Romar and Rolly Menor mentored their younger sibling to seriously pursue a basketball career. Both played in the Cebuana L’Huillier RP Team alongside tough guns like Celino Cruz and Marc Pingris. But the Menor boys went undrafted in the pros, though Rolly had a stint with Harbour back in 2004, and Romar played for Davao and Laguna in the defunct MBA. Anyone who remembers them would note their burly physique, which paved the way for them to be working as fitness instructors in Dubai. It’s been a long journey for these two former players who played for Benilde and now are moonlighting in basketball leagues in the Middle East.
Ogie is destined to go farther in his basketball career compared to his brothers. “Mas maganda college career ko kase champion team kame. Mas maganda exposure dahil televised games namin”, shared the King Lion. Indeed his stint with NCAA kings San Beda under the tutelage of former pro turned indefatigable coach Frankie Lim holds a lot of promise. Plus, who can forget that mohawked banger and dependable go to guy who was crucial in San Beda’s three championship domination? He’s definitely made his mark.
Burger King assistant Coach Jerry Codinera is impressed with the 21 year old Menor’s work ethic and drive adding that “he has no way to go but up”. Even head coach Allan Gregorio is amazed at Menor who he said is a consistent student, who practices hard with his college team from 7 to 9am, then gives him the same kind of intensity by their 11am Burger King practice.
He has humble beginnings. His father is a driver from Isabela and his mom owns a sari-sari store. Basketball has made him independent and even made him a dependable son as he helps his parents financially. “Kung ‘di sa basketball siguro nasa bukid ako, nagtatanim ng palay, mais at gulay” quipped Ogie.
Mac Baracael. Where do we start?
He was shot by a still unidentified gunman some months ago and fought for dear life. It was all over the news, so no need to evade the issue. The FEU gunner was coming of a hot UAAP season and for some time, it wasn’t sure if he was to rise up from this difficult trial.
Mac picked up the sport when he was in the 6th grade then went to Talipan National High School in Quezon Province where he was a dominating 6’3” workhorse. He even showed his wares in the baranggay leagues there. His parents could not afford to send him to school so his only way to go to college was through basketball. He got his big break when Johnny Tam saw his hard court gift at 18 years old playing for the RP Youth squad. The ball rolled from then on.
Coach Allan was proud to say that Mac comes from the gym before practice and does plyometrics after. “He’s happy and everyone’s glad. He has become more of a leader with more zest in life knowing he was given another chance”. Baracael really has dedicated this second life to be one of the more notable wingmen in the amateur ranks. He’s 23 years old and has many basketball years ahead of him. Codinera is impressed with his versatility and his intelligence on the hard court. “He’s a complete player who will go a long way”.
His father works in construction, as his mom sells in the market and tends to his other siblings in the province. Mac’s 8 year old sister Abigail succumbed to pulmonary disease 2 years ago. His year younger sister Agnes is still in school and 14 year old Marvin is showing interest in basketball as well. His family inspires Mac to work hard so he can also help uplift their lives.
Indeed, basketball has paved the way for Baracael reach his goals in life. And it was that urge to get back on the hard court and answer the call of duty that has stirred him to fight. To commemorate that life altering experience, Mac Baracael has changed his jersey number from 12 to 45. Yes, as in that .45 caliber which shot him twice in the back and reportedly punctured his lung last July 24 just a stone’s throw away from FEU.
Oh Brother!
Eddie Mangahas was legendary in the baranggay basketball leagues in his hometown of San Pedro, Laguna. People around that town still remember the burly guard, who was a quick and aggressive sharp shooting hard court hero. He has long since abandoned the hopes to be a professional player, and has taken the role of motivator to his children who are now trying to pursue their own basketball dreams.
Allan and James Mangahas are two exciting amateur players set to be part of PBL history as one of the very few brother tandems to play in one team, like Elmer and Dwight Lago, Brandon and Brian Sison, and a very short list of others. The younger Allan, was drafted 2nd overall by the Toyota Sparks team under the cudgels of Coach Ariel Vanguardia. James, a De La Salle University standout, was called up on the 2nd round.
“They’re more than what I expected” beamed Vanguardia who is confident that his new recruits will play a big role in his squad mostly composed of JRU Heavy Bombers who were runners up to San Beda in the last NCAA finals, and some DLSU Archers, also runners up, including the indefatigable JV Casio.
Allan plays for the Mapua Cardinals and was key for the Leo Isaac coached squad who defeated the Heavy Bombers during the eliminations of the last NCAA season. “He killed us in that game, so I’m glad he’s now on our side” said Vanguardia as he recalled how Allan bucked a twisted right ankle to lift the Cardinals to a victory with a 22 point production, 12 in the final quarter, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. The nightmare that he was is turning out to be a dream acquisition as he’s proving to be a reliable guard with speed and smarts.
James on the other hand had numerous “Big Game” moments with La Salle as a power forward, but it’s his return to his natural 3 position that excites him. “I’m big, I can shoot and I have post moves” enumerated the Archer who helped propel his collegiate team to the Finals. Things will not be breezy for this swing man as he’ll have the gargantuan task of guarding bigger players in his position, though Coach Ariel is confident that James can get it done.
The brothers are excited to play for the Sparks as they haven’t been together in one team since their high school days under Coach Bong Sales. The former PCU players were the go to guys and really learned to compliment each other on the hard court. They wanted to stay together in college but Allan did not get to iron out entrance issues in DLSU.
The younger Mangahas said that his “Kuya can do a lot, can shoot from the outside and is very athletic”. The older sibling just proudly recalled how Allan was a NCAA Rookie of the Year and how he’s such a talented player. He denied that there’s any sibling rivalry and even expressed pride when he saw his brother drafted ahead of him. “We’re the best of friends” echoed the two.
The Toyota Sparks Organization truly treasures the the Mangahas brothers especially because they’re a family oriented organization, distributing the leading family car. Having Allan and James in the line up keeps them in tune with their corporate marketing. “They’re the future of the team” said Vanguardia.
The franchise is hoping that they’ll finally get to win a championship. Coach stated that they’re the most intact team with only 4 additions. The hunger factor will also play a part, as well as having veteran Eric Rodriguez who’s been with the team since 2003 end his PBL career with a championship.
Though the Mangahas boys are in the limelight, Catherine, their 18 year old sister is also making waves in the local basketball scene as an RP Youth Team member. All three children are getting full support from their parents who have such difficulty zipping from one game to another. Good thing the PBL games will also host the WPBL battles. The Mangahas kids all in one roof!
For Eddie, the proud father, he may not have gone beyond his barangay hard court heroics, but his passion for the sport has influenced his children to hone their gifts and talents and take it beyond the leagues of Laguna. They are their father’s hoop dreams come true.
Allan and James Mangahas are two exciting amateur players set to be part of PBL history as one of the very few brother tandems to play in one team, like Elmer and Dwight Lago, Brandon and Brian Sison, and a very short list of others. The younger Allan, was drafted 2nd overall by the Toyota Sparks team under the cudgels of Coach Ariel Vanguardia. James, a De La Salle University standout, was called up on the 2nd round.
“They’re more than what I expected” beamed Vanguardia who is confident that his new recruits will play a big role in his squad mostly composed of JRU Heavy Bombers who were runners up to San Beda in the last NCAA finals, and some DLSU Archers, also runners up, including the indefatigable JV Casio.
Allan plays for the Mapua Cardinals and was key for the Leo Isaac coached squad who defeated the Heavy Bombers during the eliminations of the last NCAA season. “He killed us in that game, so I’m glad he’s now on our side” said Vanguardia as he recalled how Allan bucked a twisted right ankle to lift the Cardinals to a victory with a 22 point production, 12 in the final quarter, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. The nightmare that he was is turning out to be a dream acquisition as he’s proving to be a reliable guard with speed and smarts.
James on the other hand had numerous “Big Game” moments with La Salle as a power forward, but it’s his return to his natural 3 position that excites him. “I’m big, I can shoot and I have post moves” enumerated the Archer who helped propel his collegiate team to the Finals. Things will not be breezy for this swing man as he’ll have the gargantuan task of guarding bigger players in his position, though Coach Ariel is confident that James can get it done.
The brothers are excited to play for the Sparks as they haven’t been together in one team since their high school days under Coach Bong Sales. The former PCU players were the go to guys and really learned to compliment each other on the hard court. They wanted to stay together in college but Allan did not get to iron out entrance issues in DLSU.
The younger Mangahas said that his “Kuya can do a lot, can shoot from the outside and is very athletic”. The older sibling just proudly recalled how Allan was a NCAA Rookie of the Year and how he’s such a talented player. He denied that there’s any sibling rivalry and even expressed pride when he saw his brother drafted ahead of him. “We’re the best of friends” echoed the two.
The Toyota Sparks Organization truly treasures the the Mangahas brothers especially because they’re a family oriented organization, distributing the leading family car. Having Allan and James in the line up keeps them in tune with their corporate marketing. “They’re the future of the team” said Vanguardia.
The franchise is hoping that they’ll finally get to win a championship. Coach stated that they’re the most intact team with only 4 additions. The hunger factor will also play a part, as well as having veteran Eric Rodriguez who’s been with the team since 2003 end his PBL career with a championship.
Though the Mangahas boys are in the limelight, Catherine, their 18 year old sister is also making waves in the local basketball scene as an RP Youth Team member. All three children are getting full support from their parents who have such difficulty zipping from one game to another. Good thing the PBL games will also host the WPBL battles. The Mangahas kids all in one roof!
For Eddie, the proud father, he may not have gone beyond his barangay hard court heroics, but his passion for the sport has influenced his children to hone their gifts and talents and take it beyond the leagues of Laguna. They are their father’s hoop dreams come true.
Have Marcy
It’s hard to evade your destiny. If it’s written in the stars that you are to be a hoop star, then so be it. Such is the case of Marcy Arellano, Burger King’s court stunner, a true leader who thrives on taking the team through crunch time. His life’s episodes have led him to a road destined for potential greatness. And he’s not wasting any time to go down that avenue, in full speed, pushing that leather up.
Some 16 years back, then 6 year old Marcelino Arellano got addicted to basketball, playing on the streets of their Sta. Cruz Manila neighborhood. He didn’t get the real fundamentals ingrained in him till he hit the age of 10, but the hoop bug had already bit him and had him sneaking out of the house just to play ball.
High school came and saw Marcy working his way up from the farm team to the roster of the University of the East Pages all the way to his UAAP Juniors MVP stature on his final year. But not even that feather on his cap placed him on the fast lane to the UE Red Warriors line up. Not with the likes of James Yap and Paul Artadi as Coach Boyzie Zamar’s main weapons. But having to go through the grind with those UAAP turned professional superstars day in and day out did Marcy a lot of good. When his number was called up to play in the UAAP seniors arena, he quickly became known as a sweet shooter and a crunch time leader. All his potentials harnessed further under the wings of Coach Dindo Pumaren whose UE squad swept the eliminations only to falter in the finals to La Salle.
That episode in his career may not have churned out a championship, but it sure made him notorious in the amateur ranks. From his days with Harbour to his current battles with the Burger King Stunners, Marcy keeps showing he’s destined to make it big with his court abilities. He’s one of the cornerstones of Coach Allan Gregorio’s system.
Marcy said that “in life no matter how hard, don’t quit – never be a quitter”. That kind of philosophy reflects on the court, as he’s such a fighter, always pushing himself to the limit. And these are good traits he hopes to impart on his two younger brothers, Justin who’s in the 3rd grade, and Gino who’s a college sophomore. Both are showing passion for the sport, and are hoping to follow Kuya’s footsteps.
Marcy plays the role of “padre de pamilia” as his dad’s been working in Korea for about 8 years already. Though his father’s up to speed about every thing the boys are into, he has not been home since he migrated and has not seen his eldest in action. The gargantuan task of helping his mom Elizabeth while sharing the load of caring for the younger siblings coupled with making sacrifices has definitely helped Marcy mature earlier, and it shows with the way he carries himself on and off the court.
He is already laying the groundwork for a future that could involve building a small business or taking after his father who has exported his talents to another country. “No guarantees dahil madaming players dyan”, shared the star guard, “but I’m confident I’ll survive”.
“His work ethic is admirable – he comes to practice early, works real hard, and is the last person to leave the gym to work on his shooting” shared Coach AG. Coach is extremely proud of the fact that Arellano already finished his Business Management studies but went back to school to take another 2 year course. “With that kind of attitude, you know he’ll succeed in life”.
“With the things that he does, you know that he’ll make it in life”, mentioned Coach Allan. Marcy has made quite an impression on the Burger King coaching staff, including Assistant Coach Vergel Meneses whom he has idolized since he was young. “I was so excited kase idol ko sya. He gave me a jersey and always gives me advice and confidence”. Arellano recounted how the Areal Voyager tells him to “make (his) teammates look good, and bring the team’s tempo, and lead”, advice he’s all too eager to take to heart.
Seems like Marcy Arellano has the right formula and attitude to help steer the National squad and make it big in the pros, just like the warriors that came before him – the Living Legend Robert Sonny Jaworski and Big Game James Yap.
Some 16 years back, then 6 year old Marcelino Arellano got addicted to basketball, playing on the streets of their Sta. Cruz Manila neighborhood. He didn’t get the real fundamentals ingrained in him till he hit the age of 10, but the hoop bug had already bit him and had him sneaking out of the house just to play ball.
High school came and saw Marcy working his way up from the farm team to the roster of the University of the East Pages all the way to his UAAP Juniors MVP stature on his final year. But not even that feather on his cap placed him on the fast lane to the UE Red Warriors line up. Not with the likes of James Yap and Paul Artadi as Coach Boyzie Zamar’s main weapons. But having to go through the grind with those UAAP turned professional superstars day in and day out did Marcy a lot of good. When his number was called up to play in the UAAP seniors arena, he quickly became known as a sweet shooter and a crunch time leader. All his potentials harnessed further under the wings of Coach Dindo Pumaren whose UE squad swept the eliminations only to falter in the finals to La Salle.
That episode in his career may not have churned out a championship, but it sure made him notorious in the amateur ranks. From his days with Harbour to his current battles with the Burger King Stunners, Marcy keeps showing he’s destined to make it big with his court abilities. He’s one of the cornerstones of Coach Allan Gregorio’s system.
Marcy said that “in life no matter how hard, don’t quit – never be a quitter”. That kind of philosophy reflects on the court, as he’s such a fighter, always pushing himself to the limit. And these are good traits he hopes to impart on his two younger brothers, Justin who’s in the 3rd grade, and Gino who’s a college sophomore. Both are showing passion for the sport, and are hoping to follow Kuya’s footsteps.
Marcy plays the role of “padre de pamilia” as his dad’s been working in Korea for about 8 years already. Though his father’s up to speed about every thing the boys are into, he has not been home since he migrated and has not seen his eldest in action. The gargantuan task of helping his mom Elizabeth while sharing the load of caring for the younger siblings coupled with making sacrifices has definitely helped Marcy mature earlier, and it shows with the way he carries himself on and off the court.
He is already laying the groundwork for a future that could involve building a small business or taking after his father who has exported his talents to another country. “No guarantees dahil madaming players dyan”, shared the star guard, “but I’m confident I’ll survive”.
“His work ethic is admirable – he comes to practice early, works real hard, and is the last person to leave the gym to work on his shooting” shared Coach AG. Coach is extremely proud of the fact that Arellano already finished his Business Management studies but went back to school to take another 2 year course. “With that kind of attitude, you know he’ll succeed in life”.
“With the things that he does, you know that he’ll make it in life”, mentioned Coach Allan. Marcy has made quite an impression on the Burger King coaching staff, including Assistant Coach Vergel Meneses whom he has idolized since he was young. “I was so excited kase idol ko sya. He gave me a jersey and always gives me advice and confidence”. Arellano recounted how the Areal Voyager tells him to “make (his) teammates look good, and bring the team’s tempo, and lead”, advice he’s all too eager to take to heart.
Seems like Marcy Arellano has the right formula and attitude to help steer the National squad and make it big in the pros, just like the warriors that came before him – the Living Legend Robert Sonny Jaworski and Big Game James Yap.
Beyond Reproach
Confucius said that the father who does not teach his son his duties is equally guilty with the son who neglects them. Koy Banal does not leave any stone unturned when it comes to delineating his son’s duties, off and especially on the hard court as his ace playmaker.
“There’s so much pressure on me to play well under my dad. Others think I got drafted because my dad’s the coach. I need to prove that I got the spot on my own and not because of my dad” says Jonathan Banal, Magnolia Purewater’s rookie guard.
“I have a tendency to be harder on him and he has to accept that. Our relationship in the team has to be beyond reproach, walang may masasabi” revealed head coach and father Koy Banal.
The father and son tandem know they have much criticisms to face, more that that of a coach and player. Coach Koy has to pay the price of being dogged by that special kind of pressure of being coach and father. Jonathan has to accept that he’s expected to work doubly hard as player and as son.
There are ground rules. Everyone has to wear different hats.
Off the basketball court Tan describes his father as a loving and ultra caring head of the family who makes time to listen to the kids’ problems and spends time horsing around with all 5 of them. But when the coaching cap is on, Coach Koy expects nothing less than everything from all his players, most especially Tan who has to be the extension of the Coach as the court general.
Tan is working on physical strength and endurance but continues to capitalize on his quickness and maturity as a decision maker. It’s a bonus that he knows how the coach thinks, a factor that’s important as the point guard of the team.
“Whatever effort the players put up, I expect Tan to double that. If he makes mistakes, I shout at him like I do the others, though I do have a tendency to be harder on him” admits the veteran tactician. “Before the draft he called me up and told me he wanted to play for me, but I told him that it was better if he went and played for other teams”, recalled Coach Koy. He recounted how he told his son that he wouldn’t pick him because Pharex has expressed interest to put him on their lineup. But on draft night itself, the coaching staff consulted each other, and based on their need and based on the available talent, selected Jonathan Banal as their 2nd round pick.
Koy never forced basketball on Tan, who showed love for the game on his own volition. “When Tan was 4 years old, I put up a makeshift basketball ring in the little space we had in the garage. I was an assistant coach for Mapua then”. Because the car was in the garage, the 4 year old Tan who wanted to play basketball while daddy was away, got the keys and decided to move the car! Needless to say, the little boy got in trouble and even asked his dad not to send him to jail. The father could only be secretly proud of the little boy who had the desire to pick up a sport he also truly loved.
But more than just hoop dreams, Koy also has dreams of all his children to be serious with the Lord. Being a devout Born-Again Christian, he revealed one instance where Tan had an altercation with his mother and how he reminded his son of a verse from the Ephisians about honoring thy mother and father. And Tan was also reminded to how he came to be and the hardships his parents went through.
“When he was born, we already knew he was a gift from God”. Born in the lobby of the PolyMedic Hospital, with less than 7 months of shelter in his mother’s womb, Jonathan was only 2.3 pounds. “He was so small. I counted his fingers, and saw how his limbs were the size of my pinky finger” said the proud father. “I praised the Lord and had faith that he’d survive” beamed Coach Koy who added that even the pediatrician Dra. Flordeliz Regalado-Garcia is still in awe of Tan who beat the odds and survived. Tan was most definitely born a fighter.
When you coach your son, you are the two most important people in his life. You’re the coach and you’re the father. It’s important to not rob him of either one, and Coach Koy knows that. He’s trying to be the best of both.
“People might think there’s priority for Tan. I’m so careful with this and I have my coaches tell me if I’m crossing that boundary. But I am at peace with the decision in getting him. I trust him, I believe he can help the team. If there’s one guy I can consider to dive and fight for the ball, give anything for the team, it’s Jonathan”.
“There’s so much pressure on me to play well under my dad. Others think I got drafted because my dad’s the coach. I need to prove that I got the spot on my own and not because of my dad” says Jonathan Banal, Magnolia Purewater’s rookie guard.
“I have a tendency to be harder on him and he has to accept that. Our relationship in the team has to be beyond reproach, walang may masasabi” revealed head coach and father Koy Banal.
The father and son tandem know they have much criticisms to face, more that that of a coach and player. Coach Koy has to pay the price of being dogged by that special kind of pressure of being coach and father. Jonathan has to accept that he’s expected to work doubly hard as player and as son.
There are ground rules. Everyone has to wear different hats.
Off the basketball court Tan describes his father as a loving and ultra caring head of the family who makes time to listen to the kids’ problems and spends time horsing around with all 5 of them. But when the coaching cap is on, Coach Koy expects nothing less than everything from all his players, most especially Tan who has to be the extension of the Coach as the court general.
Tan is working on physical strength and endurance but continues to capitalize on his quickness and maturity as a decision maker. It’s a bonus that he knows how the coach thinks, a factor that’s important as the point guard of the team.
“Whatever effort the players put up, I expect Tan to double that. If he makes mistakes, I shout at him like I do the others, though I do have a tendency to be harder on him” admits the veteran tactician. “Before the draft he called me up and told me he wanted to play for me, but I told him that it was better if he went and played for other teams”, recalled Coach Koy. He recounted how he told his son that he wouldn’t pick him because Pharex has expressed interest to put him on their lineup. But on draft night itself, the coaching staff consulted each other, and based on their need and based on the available talent, selected Jonathan Banal as their 2nd round pick.
Koy never forced basketball on Tan, who showed love for the game on his own volition. “When Tan was 4 years old, I put up a makeshift basketball ring in the little space we had in the garage. I was an assistant coach for Mapua then”. Because the car was in the garage, the 4 year old Tan who wanted to play basketball while daddy was away, got the keys and decided to move the car! Needless to say, the little boy got in trouble and even asked his dad not to send him to jail. The father could only be secretly proud of the little boy who had the desire to pick up a sport he also truly loved.
But more than just hoop dreams, Koy also has dreams of all his children to be serious with the Lord. Being a devout Born-Again Christian, he revealed one instance where Tan had an altercation with his mother and how he reminded his son of a verse from the Ephisians about honoring thy mother and father. And Tan was also reminded to how he came to be and the hardships his parents went through.
“When he was born, we already knew he was a gift from God”. Born in the lobby of the PolyMedic Hospital, with less than 7 months of shelter in his mother’s womb, Jonathan was only 2.3 pounds. “He was so small. I counted his fingers, and saw how his limbs were the size of my pinky finger” said the proud father. “I praised the Lord and had faith that he’d survive” beamed Coach Koy who added that even the pediatrician Dra. Flordeliz Regalado-Garcia is still in awe of Tan who beat the odds and survived. Tan was most definitely born a fighter.
When you coach your son, you are the two most important people in his life. You’re the coach and you’re the father. It’s important to not rob him of either one, and Coach Koy knows that. He’s trying to be the best of both.
“People might think there’s priority for Tan. I’m so careful with this and I have my coaches tell me if I’m crossing that boundary. But I am at peace with the decision in getting him. I trust him, I believe he can help the team. If there’s one guy I can consider to dive and fight for the ball, give anything for the team, it’s Jonathan”.
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