Let Me Drown In You: The Mystery of the Unsaid Words

Weeks haves passed, the longing for the truth still in the balance, the man remained willful finding, the journey gave him strength. The journey changed him, he grew more patient, he persevered more all throughout the journey, despite the daunting task of his quest, to find the unknown.

The man then stumbled into a town, it was abandoned, dirty, and desolate. He walked pass the old bar and stumbled into a old house, the man sat by the chair in it’s terrace, drank from his canteen to nourish him, the journey has been long, the man stared in nothingness as gust of winds stream towards his face, and out of the silence a voice called him saying, “what brings you here? This town has been abandoned for years”. The man stood up and answered “I’m in an important journey”, the man said “I happen to pass by this town and decided to have a sit here, in your house I guess, sorry but I guess I better get going. The man stood up but the old man grabbed on to his shoulder and said, “non-sense, please stay, stay nightfall is coming, you wouldn’t want to know what waits in the dark”. The man smiled and obliged to the old man’s request and started introducing themselves.

The Old Man had lived in this town for years, people left because of a plague had engulfed the town. The Old Man chose to stay, in his own words he said, “I’m haven’t given up, I know the town has seen it’s better days but then again, I chose to stay because I have hope”. The Old Man prepared corn, some bread, rice and some vegetables I couldn’t identify, there was 2 chicken wings in the table. The old man survived years without contact to the “outside world”, he was crafty enough to try to salvage whatever’s left in his old town and started planting, a portion of the backyard is dedicated to his chickens, and his harvest.

After dinner, we took a stroll at the old town fountain, it was dry, the old man told me that this was once the most visited landmark in this town. “Young man, the fountain was once the center of this town, this is were the citizens will gather around, to listen to music, watch plays or any show”, said the old man, “even politicians would visit, and hold their speeches he.. or rather lies in this very spot, the town has full of hope”. The mad nodded and looked around and in his mind drew a picture of what the old town looks like. “It’s been years since I talked to someone, years”, the old man then continued, “I figured you’ve had a long journey. Where it is you’re going young man?” The man then replied, “I’m in this journey, yet I don’t know what to expect, and I don’t know if I’m going to succeed”. The old man then asked, “then you must do what you must in order to succeed, you cannot just waltz in there and expect that everything will be good, again I ask you why did you embark on this journey?” The man looked at the old man’s eyes and said “perhaps there are things better left unsaid, the less I say the better” said the younger fellow. “Well you can’t just start having this quest without a reason, but then again if you want to keep it to yourself then it’s ok”. The man then stood up and and glanced back at his elder and said “have you ever wished for something and yet you think it is far from reach but then again you continue to pursue that?” The old man gazed at the stars and said, “why do you think I’m here? I still have hope, that one day this town will be flocked by people who wanted to have a good start”. The man was left speechless and started walking back at the fountain, the old man then said,”Come now, you tell me what you want, you can trust that I will not tell a soul on what you’re going to share”. The man then said, “I embarked on this journey, without knowing what to expect, I have faced a lot of trials along the way, not including the trials I have encountered before”, the man paused for a minute then continued, “I’m in search of this angel, I don’t know, maybe that is an angel, or maybe it’s not, I don’t know sir, all the questions have led me to this journey, yet there are things that I cannot say”. The old man nodded and lit up his pipe and said, “I guess you better tell that ‘angel’ all the things you need to say once you find her or it, I wish you luck”. The man then shook the hand of his companion and started walking back at his place.

At 5AM, the man prepared for his journey back, the old man was gracious enough to give him some spare corn, a fresh supply of water and a horse, to aid his journey. “Young man, may you find the peace that you’ve been searching for”, to which the young replied, “thank you sir, I will always remember your kindness, till we meet again”. The man drifted away from the town, as he looked up and saw a radiant rainbow at seems following him around.

End of Part 3

Let Me Drown in You: The Whims of the Unending Silence

The journey took me far, far from all the things that will remind me who I was, far from the haven that I call home. The journey took me to the plains, a barren wasteland of perhaps hopelessness, I stopped and sat in the middle of a dry land, felt the death, despair and anguish. The land felt it was in need of comfort, because it dreads the feeling of doom. The land might have been there to discourage stop me in my journey, then I looked elsewhere saw a tiny speck of life, a flower in the middle of the rock, I sat in front of it and listened to the infinite cries, the cries of the hope dying in this land, forsaken but not dead, left alone yet united, the faint sound suddenly was replaced by a loud roar of thunder in the sky and rain started falling from the sky as if a blessing from the Almighty. The deafening silence was replaced by the sound of thousands of drops of water giving me hope, hope that someday  I will find the answer.

End of Part 2

The Man of Steel: You will believe a man can fly… Again…

It’s been 7 years since the disappointing Superman Returns hits the theater, with all the hype and excitement that’s been built up from that movie, the majority of the movie goers left distraught at the taught of what happened? Sure Bradon Routh had an OK performance as Superman, but perhaps what ruined it is the bad story telling and Superman having a kid (well blame it on Superman 2).

For seven years fans of the “Boy Scout” and the DC Universe had to live in a world where Marvel was dominating the theaters well except for the Nolanverse Batman film that was released between 2005 to 2012. Superman was put in the shelf for oh so many times before Warner and DC collectively said screw it, let’s do it anyway, so here comes The Man of Steel perhaps the 2nd step (with the Dark Knight Rises being the first) or the first step to a possible Justice League movie in 2015.

To start off, having another Superman film might be a little to “complex”  for the film makers knowing how the previous Superman films such as 2, 3 and 4 had a little comedic tone into it instead of concentrating on other things that made Superman a Kryptonian capable of human emotions (well check out Superman 1 and Superman 2: Richard Donner Cut as a good example on showing Clark/Kal-El’s humanity). Superman Returns on the other hand may have failed in showing big blue’s humanity. In Man of Steel though, the story of Superman started where it should have started “home”, in his doomed planet of Krypton. The set designs where far different from it’s predecessors design of the planet, even the Kryptonian battle armor that General Zod and Jor-El wore looks elegant, it will remind you of an old Roman battle armor only with the addition of the family symbol on it’s chest. The scene from Krypton gives you a little more taste of the planet and it’s locale, it also gave you a modern take on the iconic phantom zone. Gone are the crystal like edifice and was replaced by more of a Naboo-ish style of a planet.

Another thing worth mentioning in the film is how you felt like watching a compressed version of Smallville in the first hour of the film, on how Clark started to develop or realize that he has powers, and how he controlled it and it also gave us a glimpse of how Clark had to deal with the kids at school and his heroic acts when he left the state of Kansas to trace his Kryptonian heritage. The story may have been dragging to some at this point, but it adds to what makes this movie the best of the franchise since Superman 1, his hesitation to show himself to the world and the choices he had to make in order to save the planet that he calls home.

The fight scenes on the other hand might have been inspired by the Injustice game, as numerous slams, throwing someone in the building, explosions and all the other stuff that added to the grit of the battle with his “final foe” in the film. The villain on the other hand is a classic well known villain from DC’s past and a fan favorite as well (though it might be a spoiler if I mentioned it), I wonder how Viggo Mortensen  would perform if he did choose to agree to play the part, though the actor who played the villain was convincing as well, well no one can top Terrence Stamp of course (ooops). Regardless of what people say Kevin Costner has been one of my favorite actors growing up, he fitted the role of a laid back, mild mannered yet strong willed Jonathan Kent, his chemistry with Henry Cavill (I’ll get to him later) captured the essence of what Jonathan and Clark would look like, Dianne Lane still looks stunning even up to this day, even with that make up. Russell Crowe, do I really have to remind ourselves that he’s already a good actor and perhaps can play anything including a rat? Lawrence Fishburne, was a more relaxed boss rather than an intense one during the Christopher Reeve films, even when he’s angry he seems relaxed, Amy Adams not only added the charm to play the part of Lois Lane she also had the wit and the charisma as a bonus. With that I end with Henry Cavill, Cavill is no Christopher Reeve and perhaps no one can top Christopher Reeve ever! But Cavill did a good job taking the Kryptonian mantle, he made us believe once again that a man can fly.

To sum it all up: The Man of Steel, brought back what is good in Superman, his humanity, and Superman’s humanity in my opinion is what makes Superman, Super..

BATMAN FOR LIFE!!!!!

A BITTERSWEET SYMPHONY: THE LONG JOURNEY TO BANNER 14 and THE UNLIKELY FINALIST

The Alaska Aces hoist the Commissioner’s Cup title in front of the mammoth crowd of 23,436 at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Winning a championship ain’t easy, you can ask every team or any personnel from any team that winning a championship ain’t easy. You can even ask the New York Yankees who won 26 World Series wins in their storied history, you can even ask the multiple time Stanley Cup winners The Montreal Canadiens on how hard their journey was, the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers or even the New England Patriots on how hard the journey is, and I bet you will get the same answer from multiple time NBA Champions the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers.

My point is in every team, or any league a champion team has this specific journey that can be full of heartaches, disappointments, a number of trials and tribulations before getting a shot to immortality. In a way the journey of perhaps 2 of the historic PBA teams in history both the Brgy. Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings and the Alaska Aces who battled their way to the recently concluded Commissioner’s Cup Finals have a lot of heartbreaking stories that they will share. In my opinion in life and in sports (whether individual or team sports) you have to at least have that journey, a journey that is full of pain and anguish that will motivate you to be the best, and once you’re in top, you continue to climb higher.

Both Ginebra and Alaska, had a lot of stories to share. We begin with Ginebra who’s last title was back in 2008 Fiesta Conference whom they won against the then upstart team of Air21 Express, despite virtually having a homecourt advantage night in and night out, having perhaps one of the best teams built in paper, have battled to numerous disappointing finish and heart aches, even in their last Finals back in 2011 Commissioner’s Cup can be told as one of the most heartbreaking moments in franchise history, on top of that numerous coaching changes and a lot of disappointments including eliminations from the Quarterfinals, the Semi-Finals, and always coming up 1 game away from the PBA Finals. Even with all those disappointments the Ginebra team led by Reigning MVP Marc Caguioa, former MVP Jay Jay Helterbrand and Billy Mamaril were always a significant fixture in the PBA.

Alaska’s journey on the other hand, was maybe a little different, after bagging the 2010 Fiesta Conference Championship and upsetting the San Miguel Beermen in that championship series, Alaska went on a downward spiral, failing to make it to the Finals in each of the conferences in the 2010-2011 PBA Season. In perhaps one of the most shocking moments in PBA history Tim Cone, the head coach of Alaska for 20 sum years and the same coach who gave the franchise it’s 13 PBA titles including a rare grandslam back in 1996 resigned from his position as head coach, only  to sign a few days with The B-Meg Llamados (now the San Mig Coffee Mixers) at the start of the 2011-2012 PBA Season. Alaska had a new coach at the helm which happens to be Joel Banal, a champion coach in both the professional and the amateur level, failed miserably in the Philippine Cup, had an above average 2012 Commissioner’s Cup good enough for a quarterfinals berth and an early elimination. Banal resigned from his position, and Luigi Trillo was appointed the new head coach for Alaska. Trillo then had a horrible Governor’s Cup as they were one of the cellar dwellers of the league at that time. To add insult to injury, while Alaska in having a miserable time during the Post Tim Cone era, the B-Meg Llamados clinched their first PBA title (the 2012 Commissioner’s Cup) with Tim Cone as chief tactician. Things do not look bright for Alaska, as we begin the 2012-2013 Season, while the Ginebra camp on the other hand is preparing a shot at greatness.

While waiting for the dust of the previous season to settle, LA Tenorio led Smart Gilas Team Pilipinas to a victorious campaign at the Jones Cup capped off by his dominating performance in the Finals. Tenorio who at that time was playing for the Alaska Aces, had a vintage performance in the said tournament. Alaska fans were excited to begin the season, but a few days later trade rumors of LA going to Ginebra was all over the place. Ginebra perhaps one of the big market teams of the PBA and was part of the San Miguel Corporation Teams that also owned the San Mig Coffee Mixers and the Petron Blaze Boosters (San Miguel Beermen). Ginebra was in need of a point guard that will lead them back to not only significance but also to back to prominence. Then the rumors suddenly came true.

Air21 Express, Petron Blaze Boosters and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel  were involved in a three-way trade. Air21 acquired Nonoy Baclaoand Rob Reyes  from Petron Blaze and KG Canaleta and John Wilson  from Ginebra. Petron Blaze received Paolo Hubalde and Magi Sision from Air21 and Air21’s 2014 second round pick. Barangay Ginebra acquired Elmer Espiritu from Air21 and the team’s 2013 first round pick.

And then Ginebra and Alaska this time were involve in the trade.

Alaska, Barako Bull, Barangay Ginebra, GlobalPort and Petron Blaze were involved in a five-team trade that sent LA Tenorio to Barangay Ginebra, JV Casio and Dondon Hontiveros to Alaska, Willie Miller to GlobalPort, Hans Thiele and Wesley Gonzales to Petron Blaze and Enrico Villanueva to Barako Bull.

Perhaps the last significant piece of the old Tim Cone era traded away which happens to be LA Tenorio and the promising (yet no promise has been shown yet) Hans Thiele was given away. In exchange we did have Don Don Hontiveros and Jayvee Casio, still the fans were disappointed of letting LA go. While on Ginebra side fans were in ecstasy as the thought of LA and Ginebra superstar Marc Caguioa will be in the same backcourt, perhaps their best backcourt since the Jaworski-Arnaiz tandem. At the draft Alaska took Calvin Abueva of San Sebastian while Ginebra took Chris Ellis a sweet shooting guard and forward who represented the Philippines in the South East Asian Games. Fans from both teams are happy, both teams got what they want, for Alaska perhaps the energy guy, who can provide rebounding, defense, and intensity, they found that in Abueva, while for Ginebra they probably found perhaps their franchise player 5 years from now (and I’m calling it Chris Ellis will be the Franchise for Ginebra).

As the Philippine Cup started both teams we’re pretty inconsistent, while they mange to stay a float both teams successfully entered the PBA Playoffs. Alaska finished 5th with an 8-6 card and have to face Cliff Hodge and the Meralco Bolts, while Ginebra finished 6th with a 7-7 card and was about to face eventual Philippine Cup runner up (the 2012 Governor’s Cup Champions) Chris Tiu (a.k.a. the Male Kris Aquino, minus the usual annoyance) the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, Though Ginebra failed to vanquish the tough Rain or Shine (ROS) team, Ginebra showed some promise and have something to look forward to come the 2nd Conference, while on the other hand Alaska shocked Meralco and advanced to face the defending champions the Talk N’ Text (TNT) Tropang Texters in the Semifinals. Alaska had shining moments during the 6 game series against TNT, eventually they young Alaska team who despite having some tested veterans folded against a much more experienced team in TNT. TNT eventually won their 3rd straight Philippine Cup Championship, and Alaska like Ginebra (during this time Alfrancis Chua was named head coach of Ginebra while Siot Tanquincen slided down as chief assistant) has something to look forward too come the next conference.

While Herbert Hill was the original choice, Vernon Macklin proved to be a perfect fit for Ginebra and was a big factor to their resurgence during the Playoffs

While both the All-Filipino core for both Ginebra and Alaska were good enough to contend for a place at least in the Semis or maybe even the Finals, adding a very good import would perhaps put both teams back in the hunt for a possible PBA crown. Ginebra had no problem getting Herbert Hill, a former NBA draftee for the Utah Jazz, a fixture in the NBA D League showed promise in the first few games but after an 0-4 start was given the pink slip and was eventually replaced by Vernon Macklin who is also an NBA Draftee by the Detroit Pistons, and averaged double digits in points in his last 2 years as a member of the Florida Gators in the US NCAA, he eventually led Ginebra to a stinging 6 straight victories (7 out of their last 10) to lead Ginebra back in the Playoffs. Even with Marc Caguioa not playing (due to his MCL injury he suffered), LA and Macklin found ways to lead Ginebra.

Rob Dozier was originally the 4th choice as Alaska’s reinforcement, he eventually won the Best Import Award for the Commissioner’s Cup and led Alaska to their 14th PBA Title.

Alaska on the other hand had a hard time recruiting imports after losing in the bidding war against Eric Dawson and Keith Benson*  (both played for Meralco and TNT respectively), Alaska tried to woo in Dj Mbenga, a rumored karate black belt and a former NBA veteran (and NBA champion) to be Alaska’s import, unfortunately Mbenga** refused. Alaska went on to recruit Rob Dozier who himself is a former NBA draftee, famous also for being Derrick Rose’s teammate back in 2008 during the Memphis Tigers’ run for the National Title. As Alaska import Dozier was their defensive anchor, like Macklin, Dozier is a tremendous rebounder and a very good shot blocker. Alaska stomped it’s class by winning 5 straight games and never looked back.

With both teams advancing to the Playoffs, the PBA geared up to what has been an exciting wind up in years. Alaska who finished the conference on top of the standings with an 11-3 card and an automatic twice to beat advantage in the 1st round, while Ginebra flashed a 7-7 card good enough to finish 7th in the standings. For Alaska standing on their way was Air21 one of the teams that has beaten Alaska in the conference, Air21 was led by a monster of an import Mike Dunnigan. While Alaska had a hard time during the eliminations containing Dunnigan, the team kept it together limiting Dunnigan’s effectiveness and eventually won over Air21. Ginebra on the other hand have to contend with their previous tormentors the ROS, with ROS holding a twice to beat advantage over the Ginebra team who is still missing Marc Caguioa. Ginebra with their Never Say Die spirit and the backing off thousands and thousands of fans at the game venues and the millions watching at home eventually, shocked the league by beating the ROS team twice to advance to the Semifinals.

With both teams advancing to the semis, both teams came in prepared as they faced their respective rivals. For Ginebra they will have to deal with the 3 time Philippine Cup Champions the TNT Tropang Texters led by Ranidel De Ocampo, Jason Castro and import Jerome Jordan (eventually replaced by Tony Mitchell), while Alaska on the other hand has to face it’s demons and will face former coach Tim Cone and his defending Champions San Mig Coffee Mixers led by two time MVP James Yap, Marc Pingris and then reigning Best Import Denzel Bowles. While both teams coming in to the series seemed to be overwhelming underdogs as Ginebra would have to contend with TNT and Alaska has not yet won over it’s former mentor.

The Alaska-San Mig coffee was a memorable one for Alaska, after dropping Game 1 in a tightly contested game, Alaska came roaring back scoring a blow out victory in Game 2, had a huge comeback in both Games 3 and 4 to score a series victory over the heavily favored Mixers. Alaska marched on to their first finals appearance during the Post Time Cone Era.

The Ginebra-TNT series was filled with twist and turns, after Ginebra winning Game 1 via blow out, TNT responded by winning Game 2, before Game 3 TNT changed import from a hulking Jerome Jordan and replacing him with the high scoring Tony Mitchell (tall enough to be their import in the 3rd conference), the replacement of Mitchell was due to the fact that TNT will have to continue playing without key players Kelly Williams, Jimmy Alapag and Jared Dillinger, all 3 are vital cogs to the TNT team. Tony Mitchell then surprised everyone with his scoring prowess torching every Ginebra defenders again and again that eventually led to a Game 3 victory. LA and Macklin came back smoking in Game 4, as Ginebra tied the series and force a winner take all Game 5. In Game 5 Ginebra broke TNT’s will as the Macklin-Tenorio show continued to torment TNT defenders. With Ginebra up big in the final seconds of the game. Alfrancis Chua fielded a Marc Caguio who is no in 100% as a symbol of “Thank You” to the fans. Ginebra went on and advanced to the Finals.

While Ginebra-San Mig Coffee (Purefoods or B-Meg) was a rivalry that is being marketed by the PBA on AKTV broadcast team, in my opinion the Ginebra-Alaska rivalry had more memories than the Manila Classico rivalry (Shell had a better rivalry with Ginebra in my opinion). Both teams faced in the Finals 3 times with Alaska winning 2 and Ginebra winning the last meeting back in 1997. Alaska and Ginebra featured great players in the 90s for Alaska it was Bong Hawkins, Johnny Abarrientos, Jeff Cariaso, Kenneth Duremdes for Ginebra it was Marlou Aquino, Vince Hizon, Bal David, Pido Jarencio, Robert Jaworski Sr, Noli Locsin to name a few. Back in the 90’s Jojo Lastimosa was Ginebra fans’ Public Enemy #1. Alaska fans’ on the other hand may have hated Bal David, maybe because David as a clear threat to Johnny A’s title as the league’s top point guard. Every Alaska-Ginebra game is a classic, even a blow out game something awesome is about to happen, just ask Marlou Aquino. Emotions have ran wild especially those games back in 1996 where Alaska completed the rare Grandslam, ironically the faced Ginebra in that season’s last title to complete the feat. Ginebra fans’ had this absolute hatred towards Alaska back in the mid 90s. Ginebra eventually got the last laugh in  1997 as the Chris King led Ginebra (then named as the Gordon’s Gin Boars) dominated the Alaska Milkmen who were led by import Kevin Holland, Gordon’s even led the series 3-0 before Alaska mustered up enough adjustments to win two straight games. To make this victory sweeter for Gordon’s, Chris King was injured from games 2 to 6, and I believe he didn’t get to play or play much in Game 3. Gordon’s eventually destroyed Alaska in Game 6 unleashing a 33-5 run that buried Alaska. The Ginebra/Gordon’s won their first title in 6 years at the expense of rival Alaska.

The story for both teams coming into the series is will Alaska eventually stepped out of the shadows of again the Tim Cone era, and ushered in perhaps the Trillo-Compton-Alas-Robinson era for Alaska. For Ginebra it’s a Cinderella run that they hope could lead to their 9th Championship in Franchise history. Added to the storyline for the Ginebra side is the resurgence of Jay Jay Helterbrand and Kerby Raymundo who suddenly started balling in the Playoffs, will this continue and eventually led to the championship. For Alaska, one of the added storyline is perhaps their re-emergence led by Rookie Calvin Abueva, who according to Fred Uytengsu perhaps the new face of Alaska. Multiple stories and drama eventually led to a possible dramatic series in memory. The 4th meeting of aged-old rivals, this is it for both teams and there’s no turning back.

The championship series was cut to a Best of 5 affair to give way for the FIBA Asia Championships that will be held here in the Philippines. With tensions running high, and minutes before tip off both teams were introduced to a raucous crowd at the Araneta in Game 1. Game 1 showed Alaska’s defensive dominance in the first quarter limiting Ginebra to a miserable 6 points to end the first, Alaska never looked back and eventually won Game 1 by 17 points. Game 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena was no different, Alaska showed it’s stuff in the 2nd Quarter and dominated them all the way, though Ginebra tried to threaten to make a comeback, Alaska has every answer to every Ginebar uprising in Game 2, Don Don Hontiveros’ 3 triples in the 4th Quarter, and a three point play by Sonny Thoss that proved to be the back breaker for Ginebra. Before Game 3 both Rob Dozier and LA Tenorio received their Best Import and Best Player of the Conference Award. Both of them bringing their teams along to accept it. Ginebra played much better in Game 3 than the previous 2 games, this time they went to an all out slugfest with Alaska, Marc Caguioa even showed promise that he’s coming back to his old form as he scored 10 points, LA was just superb, Jay Jay’s shots are falling this time, Chris Ellis the future of Ginebra is just amazing, for Alaska Dozier was dominant worthy of the Best Import title, Abueva is scoring big for the team, Hontiveros had his share of brilliance. Come the end of the 3rd it was 72-71 lead going into the 4th Quarter, Ginebra trying to force a Game 4 while Alaska trying to close it out. After an all out war in the first few minutes of the 4th Quarter Alaska eventually broke the game wide open after a 80-78 Alaska lead, they made a run similar to the one Ginebra unleashed in Game 6 16 years ago, Jayvee Casio went crazy, Thoss was dominating the paint, Rob Dozier who carried Alaska’s offensive attack all game long was phenomenal in defense, Abueva was smoking as well. The Alaska fans or the Gatas Republik went nuts as they saw their team dominating the tough Ginebra team. Alaska finished Ginebra off 104-80, finally getting vindication and the franchise 14th Championship, and their first during the Post Tim Cone era.

Jayvee Casio’s performance in the Finals proved that he belongs with Alaska.

What’s fitting in this series is that Jayvee Casio, the guy who replaced LA Tenorio as Alaska’s chief point guard at the start of the season, the same guy who was big during some La Salle playoff and championship games in the UAAP, won his title with the Uytengsu franchise.

Espinas who said that this is actually his 3rd time in the Finals, or perhaps his 3rd time facing Ginebra in the finals showed elation as he finally exorcised his Ginebra demons

With all the joy and elation happening all over the place Don Don finds some time to be with a fan amidst the chaos.

Obviously that’s not Dagul

Even after Alaska has been doing all these things, the Araneta pro Ginebra crowd kept on chanting GI-NEB-RA! GI-NEB-RA! as a sign of respect and love to their team, eventually they were given their runner up trophy. With that I would like to say that Ginebra also deserves the championship,  much respect to them, they battled, they never gave up!

A disappointed yet proud Ginebra team will take home the runner up trophy.

After awarding the runner up trophy Alaska was given their gem, then Fred Uytengsu gave props to the Ginebra team, and showed some love to the fans. Luigic then had the mic and started thanking his Alaska family, the fans, his dad, his wife and kid, and God.

Sonny Thoss awarded the Papa John’s Pizza Finals MVP

Sonny Thoss on the other hand was adjudged the Finals MVP beating his other teammates Calvin Abueva and Cyrus Baguio. Thoss also thanked the fans.

With all the commotion and chaos, the Alaska managed to go back to their locker rooms and started celebrating. I just wish if they win their 15th title, they should consider pouring milk to Erik Padilla or even Jessica Mendoza.  With that Alaska’s journey has been a bittersweet symphony, Ginebra is still on the verge of finding their way back to greatness, if this  conference is an indication a few personnel moves here and there could spell the difference from their possible return to prominence or to obscurity. With that I close this piece by copying the old Alaska slogan.. “Wala paring tatalo sa Alaska!”

Let Me Drown in You, Did I bring this to myself? Can I get out alive?

A night of uncertainty, what waits beyond the unknown? Is there a reward that awaits the patient or perhaps the horror that waits in the dark. Everyday the unknown consumes me, not as an obsession, but more of a longing, a longing to find the answer from within.

I sat in the hills and stared in the abyss, I closed my eyes and ignored the voices, the things that did not allow the possibility of answering the questions that I long tried finding. I stood up and prepared for the journey, asked myself again what awaits for me beyond the unknown? I suddenly closed my eyes and the streams of possibilities both utopia and a nightmare coursed through my mind. It didn’t give me the answer that I need, instead It created more questions than a possible answer.

I started walking not knowing what awaits me, not minding the possibility of defeat and anguish, not even minding people calling me a fool. The unknown calls me. I intend to forge my own destiny with this journey.

-End of Part I-

BATTLE FOR THE O`BRIEN BEGINS

Arguably the Holy Grail of all Basketball, the NBA’s Larry O`Brien Trophy is once again up for grabs in this years Playoffs

Last year much to my dismay the Miami Heat won it’s 2nd NBA Title against the overmatched and yet hungry Oklahoma City Thunder, the franchise’s 1st title since 2006 and first under the Big 3 era that is led by reigning league MVP Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. The Heat also entered the 2012-2013 season as the favorites to repeat as World Champs, during the free agency period the Heat reloaded by adding sharpshooters Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. While that on the other hand in Chicago things looked a little bleak as their star point guard and former league MVP Derrick Rose will be sidelined indefinitely (as of “press time” there is no news yet if DRose will play in the Playoffs), in Oklahoma City, the team traded shooting guard James Harden who is a former 6th man of the year to Houston for the underrated Kevin Martin. While the whole teams tried to strengthen their line up for a chance to capture an NBA Title the Los Angeles Lakers perhaps made the biggest noise of all by signing Steve Nash and acquiring Dwight Howard via trade. Assumptions of a new Laker Dynasty was foiled as the Lakers limped their way to the Playoffs, as they struggled with coaching change and chemistry, now they look to win their 17th NBA Championship without their leader Kobe Bryant.

While the season passes a lot of surprises and twists happened, the once hapless Knicks had a resurgence as Carmelo Anthony became the leader of the team while Amare Stoudemire accepted the role of super sub, and JR Smith had a resurgence. In Milwaukee the Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis offensive project worked, and Larry Sanders proved to be one of the biggest surprise as the leader of the Bucks D. As always San Antonio was once again counted out but Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker, who at one point a candidate for league MVP showed flashes of their youth as they led the Spurs to the 2nd seed in the Western Conference. Golden State raised a lot of eyebrows when they started playing better D this year, much of the credit goes to sophomore coach Mark Jackson who transformed this once laughing stock of a team to a dark horse ready to pounce on every opponent they face. In Hoosier Country, the Indiana Pacers saw their franchise player Danny Granger succumb to injuries, but an emerging young star picked up the ball and ran with it, Paul George had a tremendous season that earned him an All-Star nod. In the Windy City, the Chicago Bulls surprised a lot of people by retaining their competitiveness despite the absence of their star point guard Derrick Rose, even after the rought and hectic Olympic schedule the emergence of Loul Deng of the Sudan but played for Britain in the 2012 Olympics and Joackim Noah who played for France helped the Bulls season, honorable mention goes to Carlos Boozer who is slowly becoming the player he once was in Utah, big ups for Nate Robinson, Kirk Hinrich and Jimmy Butler as well. The other Los Angeles team which was nicknamed Lob City proved to be both effective and exciting as Blake Griffin and Chris Paul together with DeAndre Jordan and Jamal Crawford helped the team to make its 2nd straight Playoff appearance, no one is making fun of the Clippers this time. The Boston Celtics may have suffered a setback after losing their young and talented point guard Rajon Rondo because of an ACL injury, but kept on competing led by Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Jason Terry. Brooklyn Nets’ first season in Brooklyn was a success as they will make their first post-season appearance after the Jason Kidd era (that was when the Nets where in East Rutherford, New Jersey), the team had a surprise performance from the ever improving Brook Lopez, Joe Johnson (who they acquired via trade from the Atlanta Hawks) and Deron Williams. The Atlanta Hawks kept it together, even with the trade rumors lingering in his head Josh Smith relished in the role of leader after Johnson left the City. The Memphis Grizzlies will now rely more on smash mouth  basketball as they traded young stud Rudy Gay for defensive specialist Tayshaun Prince, expect them to be very very physical as Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol lead the Grizzlies attack. The Los Angeles Lakers limped throughout the season, but managed to make it to the playoffs despite losing Kobe Bryant before their last game of the season (out for 6 to 9 months torn Achilles Tendon), Paul Gasol and Dwight Howard must now step up and lead them back to the promise land. The Denver Nuggets will enter the playoffs without their leading scorer in Danilo Gallinari but with the resurgence of Wilson Chandler, and a balanced attack led by Ty Lawson and Andre Igoudala the Mile High City will always be smiling. The Houston Rockets found a gem after getting former OKC guard James Harden, Harden emerged as the King Rocket, as he led the team in scoring, while Jeremy Lin and Chandler Parsons provided much needed help in this balance Rocket attack.

I pretty much said what I think of every Playoff team competing in this years Playoffs, I believe that this is going to be exciting, and unpredictable and I expect upsets and disappointments as well. With that here is the bracket of the NBA Playoffs 2013.

My first Rd predictions?

OKC over Houston in 6 (though expect an upset!), Memphis over LA Clippers in 6, San Antonio over LA Lakers in 7, Denver over Golden State in 7.

Miami over Milwaukee in 5, Chicago over Brooklyn in 6, Boston over NY in 7, Indiana over Atlanta in 6.

With that I bid you guys farewell for now. SEE RED!!! GO BULLS!!!

Pictures taken from Bleacher Report and EveryJoe.com

Wrestlemania 29 The Review

Every year the World Wrestling Entertainment better known as the WWE holds an event that can be compared to the Academy Awards, the Superbowl or the NBA Finals. The media buzz for Wrestlemania is comparable to the buzz that surrounds every major sporting event in the World, well at least that’s how the WWE feels like telling its fans.

This year’s Wretlemania was held in this year in East Rutherford, New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium (home of the New York Jets and New York Giants) where more than 80,000 strong jampacked the said arena to witness Wrestlemania 29 on April 7, 2012. Before the show started a Wrestlemania Pre-Show was held, and a match between Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett and The MIz was held, where in MIz captured the WWE Intercontinental Championship via Figure 4 Leg Lock.

The actual show opened up with a video package of the devastation of Hurricane Sandy and how the people in NY and NJ area helped each other to get back on their feet. Then we saw the NJ National Guard as Michael Cole told us they were instrumental in helping the people during the aftermath.

Opening Match: The Big Show, Sheamus and Randy Orton versus The Shield (RomanReigns, Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins)

The show opened up with 3 Wrestlemania veterans and former World Champions against the young upstarts the Shield, while the match featured a typical 3 on 3 match, it has some highlights like Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose getting their vests removed as Sheamus and Big Show pounded on them mercilessly. The ending came when Randy Orton tagged himself in, instead of Sheamus giving the hot tag to the Big Show.. Randy Orton cleaned house and eventually the numbers caught up and Shield won by pinfall as Big Show didn’t break the 3 count as he stood in the corner watching it all happened.. Big Show knocked both Orton and Sheamus before leaving the ring.. Very good opening bout 7/10.. The Shield go their Mania moment.

Match 2: Mark Henry versus Ryback

Making his WrestleMania debut Ryback came into the ring with a lot to prove, he wants to prove the people that he can be the next best face in the WWE. The former Skip Sheffield entered the ring against WWE veteran Mark Henry. The match was your typical strongman versus strongman match. Henry dominated about 55% of it before Ryback came charging back, while egging the crowd to chant Feed Me More (which the raucous Jersey crowd reciprocated). The end came when Ryback attempted to finish the match with a Shell Shock but Henry held on the ropes as the whole 450+ frame of Mark Henry landed on Ryback for the victory.  Passable match 6/10

After the match Henry came back to the ring to make sure that Ryback will be inducted to the Hall of Pain. But Ryback got his 2nd win and eventually hit the Shell Shock to foil Henry’s plan and for Ryback to have his Wrestlemania moment.

The WWE honored the US Special Olympic Team – David Denan(hoping that I got the spelling right) and Ashely Webber (with perhaps Stephanie McMahon, the US Olympic Commitee and NJ Governor Chris Christie), and got a decent pop from the crowd.

Match 3: For the WWE Tag Team Championship, Team Hell No (C) versus Dolph Ziggler and Big E Langston (with AJ Lee)

The match kicked off with Dolph mocking Daniel Bryan’s 18 second Wrestlemaina 28 debacle against Sheamus (when Bryan gave then girlfriend AJ Lee a kiss before their World Heavyweight Championship match, then Sheamus Brogue Kicked him to win the title). This time Bryan came inches away from ending the match after a high kick was landed on Dolph’s kisser, the match was high paced not your typical tag team match, Big E Langston was impressive overpowering Kane and manhandling Daniel Bryan. In the end Bryan and Kane came away with a pinfall victory after a flying headbutt from Bryan. Daniel Bryan had his Mania moment as the crowd cheered for him in unison with a resounding YES chants. 7.5/10

Match 4: Fandango versus Chris Jericho

Fandango or should I say FFFFFffffffffAAAAAAAaaaaaaaNNnnnDddAAAAAAAaaaaaaaNNNnnnnGGGggggOoooooo knows how to enter in style.

Reminiscent of MVP’s entrance in Wrestlemania 23, Fandango entered into the squared circle in style, WrestleMania style. That on the other hand Chris Jericho countered with his own entrance.

Fandango, on his first televised match in the WWE went up against WWE veteran Chris Jericho, dubbed by JBL as Mike Tyson versus Buster Douglas, if Buster didn’t box at all. Jericho schooled Fandango for the majority of the match, while Fandango had his own moments as well, especially when Fandango hit him with a flying leg drop from the top rope. The match came to an end when Jericho injured his knee and Fandango capitalized with a roll-up. Fandango’s first match was a hug success, as Jericho put him over, the only way Jericho can. 8/10

Excellent debut!

Bathroom break and dinner time Puff Daddy sings, borefest!

Match 5: For the World Heavyweight Championship: Alberto Del Rio (C) (with Ricardo Rodriguez) versus Jack Swagger (with Zeb Colter)

Jack Swagger entered the ring riding an camouflaged ATV with an American Flag on it called the Patriot Mobile (he entered while the video package of Del Rio and Swagger rivalry).

Colter then proceeded to cut a promo regarding the immigrants of the NY/NJ area that got  a  few boos from the MetLife Stadium crowd. Del Rio then makes his entrance with a special introduction from Ricardo Rodriguez.

The match was a huge huge treat to the raucous crowd in MetLife as they were treated in a very entertaining match, Del Rio in my opinion is ready to to be part of the big guns of the WWE, his charisma and ability can captivate the crowd. The match went back and forth, a little gritty but not as gritty as the Triple H Brock Lesnar match later that night. In the end Del Rio retained the World Heavyweight Championship by making Jack Swagger tap out by the cross arm breaker. 7.25/10

And Michael Strahan former New York Giant player and legend enjoyed the bout as well.

Match 6: The Undertaker versus CM Punk (with Paul Heyman)

CM Punk is currently using the early 90’s classic Cult of Personality by Living Colour, Living Colour then played it live in front of the crowd in MetLife, CM Punk entered the arena and pointed at the band before his Mania match with Taker. With that I would like to say that than you God, you washed the Puff Daddy suckfest out of our minds with a very good performance by Living Colour. Thank you!

Again, THANK YOU LORD!

Undertaker entered in what looked like Hades rising from the underworld, it was awesome watching it, I wonder how great it is live. Anyway with CM Punk disrespecting the the late Paul Bearer (former manager of the Undertaker) and stealing the urn (the source of the Undertaker’s “powers”), Undertaker puts his undefeated Mania record on the line against CM Punk, perhaps the best in ring performer in the WWE today. The match itself was awesome, filled with high energy moves, memorable reversals, near falls after near falls to the point that I was actually clapping my hands, it’s really great to be a WWE/wrestling fan come Mania season, thank you Undertaker and CM Punk. In the end Undertaker wins after a tombstone piledriver and honored his fallen friend and confidant.

Classic Undertaker ring exit. Match grade 9/10

Match 7: Brock Lesnar (with Paul Heyman) versus Triple H (Shawn Michaels): Career Threatening Match 

Shawn Michaels made his way to the ring first to be with his friend Triple H for the following bout. This is his first appearance since Wrestlemania 26 and his first apperance as a manager.

This match for me was a disappointment , I was expecting a knockout drag out fight between the former WWE and UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar and Triple H, a match than can exceed what they accomplished in SummerSlam 2012 but all I got was a photocopy with different result. Of course this one is a bit more physical, but still had a slow paced, Triple H trying to have a huge surge while Lesnar toys with him type of match. Not that it wasn’t good but, it was more of a let down for me. Triple H wins via Pedigree. Shawn also had his moments as he superkicked Heyman’s head off.. 7.5/10

Class of 2013 Hall of Fame introduced to the crowd led by Bruno Sammartino, Trish Stratus, Booker T, Mick Foley, Donald Trump, and Bob Backlund.

Main Event: For the WWE Championship – The Rock (C) versus John Cena II

This match is about a notch better than their Wrestlemania 28 encounter, though the difference is they traded more finishers more near falls in this match. The Once in a lifetime tag from last year didn’t come true as the Rock and John Cena faced each other again, because The Rock’s GI Joe Retaliation move got pushed a year, instead of its 2012 release hence his appearance for another go around with Mania is to re-promote the Joe film. So anyway going back, they did some usual stuff they do, punches, kicks, signature maneuvers etc. until Cena hit the final Attitude Adjustment for the 3 count. Cena recaptures the WWE title.

At the end of the match Cena and The Rock shook hands and hugged.

Cena even left the ring for the Rock to have his final salute to the crowd and so that the crowd can applaud him as well.

And the show ends with 2 men raising each other’s hand.

My overall grade for Wrestlemania 29 is a solid 7.5/10, while my only complaint is the Jericho-Fandango match could have gone at least 2 or 3 minutes to really sell the leg injury that Jericho had, other complaint is the photocopy Summerslam match between Triple H and Lesnar, because I felt they could have done it better. And my ultimate complaint Puff Daddy, Sean Diddy Combs or whatever his name is, it really doesn’t matter, Puff Daddy’s performance is an absolute snoozer. Overall memorable show.

BALKMAN, THE POPE and THE SUICIDE

After the controversial choke, former New York Knick and Denver Nugget forward Renaldo Balkman was summoned to the commisioner’s office. The incident spread like wildfire, the @NOTBillWalton twitter account had some amusing remarks on the incident while followers of the BleacherReport.com’s facebook account blasted Renaldo Balkman’s shenanigans as he both choked figuratively and literally during the game, a first I guess.

While waiting for “judgment day”, Balkman made peace with his teammates (including Arwind Santos, that was capped off by their handshake and hug at the AKTV Center) and coaching staff as his teammates rally behind him in support, as he tried to defend himself against a panel that will review the incident including hard boiled PBA Commissioner Chito Salud.

The whole Petron team led by Arwind Santos in slippers and Head Coach Olsen Racela the guy on your right with a fist on his face (picture from Interaktv.com)

Even with all the support from some Petron fan and the team, with a heartfelt apology on National TV that actually eclipsed the San Mig Coffee and Ginebra game, the league has come to a decision and a very rough one. A lifetime ban in the PBA, please read the image below.

THE DECISION ON WHY BALKMAN GOT A LIFETIME BAN IN THE PBA (from Interaktv.com)

The decision on Balkman’s expulsion from the PBA, raised eyebrows to the fans, some “Petron Die Hards” would say that the Commissioner was paid because Balkman made a mediocre (yes mediocre) team better. Yet some praised the Commissioner on his decision. Even actor Robin Padilla said in a statement that he would go to war with Commissioner Salud, as a testament of respect.

THE POPE

Pope Francis the first Latin Pope elected, photo from wikipedia

Last March 13, 2013, the Roman Catholic Church unveiled a new Pope after Pope Benedict XVI abdicated the Papacy, the successor is an Argentian Bishop named Jorge Mario Bergoglio. He will now be known as Pope Francis, named after Saint Francis of Assisi, St. Francis is known for his humility and love of God. The new Pope even took a bus, instead of riding limos when he’s in Rome. 

I guess the Catholic Church is on the right track.

THE SUICIDE

A UP Manila freshmen killed herself a few days ago because she won’t be able to enroll this coming semester, her family currently owes about Php 10,000 according to the UP Manila registar. What’s sad about this story is that Kristel (the student’s name) is a very good student, a combination of beauty and brains but her family fell through hard times. After his father got canned as a warehouse supervisor the only thing that kept her family going is that Kristel is going to a great school in UP (a State University here in the Philippines), but unfortunately because the family lacked the budget and of course a very stiff policies of UP, the family fell into a deeper hole, as they missed payment after payment putting the young Kristel’s future in danger. Hence she committed suicide. Read the following story on the link that I will provide below.

Kristel’s suicide could have been prevented, not that I blame the UP Admin for screwing her life up by cowardly ending her own life, but I just wish the school Admins all over the Philippines can show a bit of compassion to those deserving students that needed education and my guess is Kristel is a deserving student. I just wish this will be a lesson not only to UP, but also to reputed schools such as Ateneo, La Salle, UST to have a heart.

Till next time!

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/03/17/920669/new-enrolment-ruling-if-only-kristel-had-known

RENALDO BALKMAN UNLEASHES HIS FURY ON HIS TEAMMATES

Credit to Nikko Ramos for the picture

from SPIN.ph
lol @ the ref

Former New York Knick and Denver Nugget Renaldo Balkman may have found his way playing in the PBA, but he didn’t get lost in the lime light, this former 20th pick overall in the 2006 Draft, played 6 seasons in the NBA starting with the Knicks, then to the Nuggets and was part of the Carmelo Anthony trade that sent him back to the Big Apple after a year or so of being away to the Big Apple.

He then made his way here in the Philippines to play with the inconsistent and troubled team the Petron Blaze Boosters, leading them to 5 straight victories, he averaged about 39.6 minutes per game while amassing an impressive 28.17 ppg 12.83 rpg 2.5 apg 2.7 spg 2.83 bpg while adding 3.5 TOpg and 2.83 FPG just to add something, that is pretty impressive for an import proving his worth as an NBA veteran, but in this game, he was just limited to a lowly 6 points, frustrated by the Alaska Defense that is led by another NBA veteran in Rob Dozier, they frustrated Balkman that lead to this even. Pushing Assistant Coach Biboy Ravanes, team mate Ronald Tubid and an epic confrontation with Petron’s erstwhile leader Arwind Santos.

With this incident, this puts Petron back to square one, in my opinion it might only get worse, as this troubled team who once denied the mighty Talk N’ Text Tropang Texters of a Grand Slam almost 2 years ago by winning the Governor’s Cup only to be lost and never found its way back to PBA Title Contention. With all the controversy surrounding Petron, from a mild Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot and Jay Washington feud, we add this incident to the on going turmoil of the team. Perhaps Balkman had a bad day, or perhaps the maid caught him jacking off in the shower, we’ll never know.

Come Monday, the League commissioner will talk to Balkman regarding the incident. With that we open another topic to the on going saga that is called Petronovela.

PS: Credit Goes to InterAKTV youtube page for the video

Michael Jordan @ 50 The Memoirs of a Bulls fan far from Chicago

A short career summary of the Greatest Basketball Player of All Time

April 16, 2003, not even a Playoff game, the other team isn’t fighting for Playoff contention, while the other team secured it’s spot in the NBA Postseason. The date though was significant at that time as the media, the attention of the whole world tuned in to the Washington Wizards and the Philadelphia 76ers game, which just like I said that has no bearing whatsoever in the league when it comes to Playoff positioning. All the attention and the media commotion was caused by one man who after playing 13 years from the Chicago Bulls, came back 5 years later and played for the Washington Wizards is finally bidding goodbye for good. Though he only scored 15 points, but the cheers and the adulation of the fans worldwide will always remember the Man, Michael Jordan.

I always remembered Michael Jordan as the ultimate winner, the scorer, the excellent teammate and the Best in the World. Growing up there are a lot of facts that I didn’t know about Jordan, one of those that he was cut when he tried out in their basketball varsity team in favor of Leroy Smith, while being demoted to Jr. Varsity (though several stories arose that Jordan dominated Jr. Varsity). A year later he improved his game, and eventually landed a spot in their HS basketball team which was Laney High School. Jordan went on and impressed Coach Mike Mike Kryzweski of Duke University. Coach K tried to recruit Jordan but Jordan decided to play for Dean Smith and The University of North Carolina. By the way here’s the proof the Coach K tried to recruit MJ.

Coach K’s letter to Michael Jordan after learning he wouldn’t be coming to Duke. (Caption and photo taken from Bleacher Report, credit goes to them

Jordan then went on and found individual and team success with the Tar Heels (with teammate Sam Perkins and James Worthy) winning the 1982 NCAA Championship against future rival Patrick Ewing of the Georgetown Hoyas. He also won 2 All America First team, Rupp Awards, the Big O award to name a few. Jordan left before his senior year and threw his hat into the 1984 NBA Draft.

Jordan was selected 3rd behind Future Hall of Fame Center Akeem Olajuwon and draft bust Sam Bowie. Jordan went on to revitalized the city of Chicago, leading them to their first playoff appearance in years. Though Jordan broke his foot in the early part of the 85-86 season, he came back storming and in a memorable way. Jordan’s career brilliance was shown early as the young guard lit up the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of their Playoff Game at the historic Boston Garden. Jordan scored 63 points breaking the Elgin Baylor record that stood for years, though Jordan and the Bulls lost to the Celtics (who eventually won the NBA Title that year), Larry Bird gave props to the young guard saying “God disguised as Michael Jordan”. To this day the 63 point performance is still the record for the single game points scored by an individual in the NBA Playoffs.

Though Jordan would come up short, the Bulls franchise slowly built a solid team that will help the team to be relevant, adding pieces such as Scottie Pippen, Stacy King, BJ Armstrong, John Paxson, trading Charles Oakley for Center Bill Cartwright the Bulls slowly built the core that will help him win their first NBA Title but not after getting schooled by the Detroit Pistons and the Jordan Rules defense. Jordan and the Bulls eventually defeated their bitter rivals in 1991 via sweep and marched on to face the Magic Johnson, James Worthy led Los Angeles Lakers.

Though the series highlight was when Jordan changed the shot in mid air to avoid getting blocked, fans will always remember his brilliance throughout the series and how he used the triangle offense that was installed by 2nd year coach Phil Jackson. Though Pippen would steal thunder by limiting Magic in the majority of the series, Jordan had clutch shots and timely baskets and led them to the promise land, the first NBA title to the city of Chicago, though Jordan won another one in 1992, where in Jordan poured in 3 pointers after 3 pointers and the memory of the shrug lived on.

In 1992 Jordan with other NBA greats such as Magic, Larry Bird, teammate Scottie Pippen, David Robinson, Karl Malone, Patrick Ewing, Chris Mullin, John Stockton, Charles Barkley, Cylde Drexler and Duke University’s Christian Laettner (who eventually got Drafted #2 by the Minnesota Timberwolves) dominated Barcelona en route to a Gold Medal victory over future teammate Toni Kukoc and Croatia.

Jordan then went on to dominate the 92-93 Season, posting 55 wins good enough to win them the 2nd seed in the East, though they somehow overcame the #1 seeded New York Knicks which is led by Partick Ewing in the playoffs and marched on to their 3rd Finals this time dating the Barkley led Phoenix Suns who won the MVP that season. Jordan and Barkley had a classic shoot out in most of the games, but when the dust has settled John Paxson burried a key 3 that sealed the league’s first 3 peat since the Boston Celtics back in the 60s.

Jordan then shocked the world and retired from the game of basketball, to play baseball and was assigned to a AA team where he batted  .202 had 51 RBIs and 3 HRs. Jordan then snapped out of his “dream” and came back to play basketball in 1995. Jordan then helped the Bulls to strengthen their playoff grip during that time he also torched the Knicks for 55 points. The Bulls though did not find Playoff success after Jordan returned in the 1995 Playoffs, they were eventually humiliated by the Orlando Magic, the picture of NIck Anderson stealing the ball from Jordan was a bitter pill to swallow for every Bulls fan, with that defeat Jordan worked on his game and improved to regain his rightful place.

Before the 1995-1996 season Jordan and Pippen welcomed the addition of former Rival and the NBA’s rebounding leader Dennis Rodman, with Rodman “anchoring” the Bulls’ defense and rebounding the Bulls cruised to the season winning 72 regular season games a record that still stands today as the most wins in the regular season. Jordan went on to win another MVP (he won 1987, 1991 and 1992 prior to that) and finally regaining the NBA title after battling the tough Seattle Supersonics in the Finals, the Father’s Day Game according to the Bulls lore, as an emotional Michael Jordan clutched the ball while on the floor crying as teammates mugged him, this was Jordan’s first title without his father at his side. The Bulls came back stronger the next season as Jordan won another MVP and while the Bulls posted 69 wins in the regular season. They faced the Utah Jazz who were led by Karl Malone and John Stockton. The series will be remembered not only for the Jordan game winner in Game 1 or the Steve Kerr game winner in Game 6 but also for the Flu Game where Jordan scored 38 points despite having Flu like symptoms. Jordan then won his 5th title. Title number 6 was a different story, Jordan had to carry the Bulls in the early part of the season due to the injury of Scottie Pippen, despite the early season struggle the Bulls posted a 60-22 record good enough to be #1 in the East, but will have to surrender homecourt advantage to a motivated Utah Jazz in the Finals. Indeed just like in the story books, the rematch was set. Though Quinito Henson insisted that the Jazz where favorites to win the series, he forgot one thing number 23, Michael Jordan. After a tough and impressive victory in Game 1, Jordan and Pippen tore the Jazz apart in Games 2, 3 and 4, shocking the Jazz fans and Quinito Henson. Though the Jazz staved off and cancelled the Madison Street Party in Game 5, it only set up a classic performance that only Jordan can deliver. After injuring his back, Scottie Pippen played gingerly in the 6th game against the Jazz, playing less effective and eventually cost him his Finals MVP. And I’ll leave wikipedia to do the talking for me with this one.

The Bulls returned to Utah for Game 6 on June 14, 1998 leading the series 3–2. Jordan executed a series of plays, considered to be one of the greatest clutch performances in NBA Finals history. With the Bulls trailing 86–83 with 41.9 seconds remaining, Phil Jackson called a timeout. When play resumed, Jordan received the inbound pass, drove to the basket, and hit a layup over several Jazz defenders. The Jazz brought the ball upcourt and passed the ball to forward Karl Malone, who was set up in the low post and was being guarded by Rodman. Malone jostled with Rodman and caught the pass, but Jordan cut behind him and swatted the ball out of his hands for a steal. Jordan then slowly dribbled upcourt and paused at the top of the key, eyeing his defender, Jazz guard Bryon Russell. With fewer than 10 seconds remaining, Jordan started to dribble right, then crossed over to his left, possibly pushing off Russell, although the officials did not call a foul.  Jordan then made the climactic jump shot of his career. After John Stockton missed a desperation 3-pointer, Jordan and the Bulls claimed their sixth NBA championship, and secured a second three-peat. Once again, Jordan was voted the Finals MVP,  having led all scorers by averaging 33.5 points per game, including 45 in the deciding Game 6.

Thanks wikipedia I knew I could rely on you, sometimes.

Just like mentioned above Jordan capped off his magnificent career with the Bulls, winning his 6th Finals MVP and his 6th Championship with Scottie Pippen and Coach Phil Jackson.

Though Jordan came back to the lackluster Washington Wizards, he helped the team to be competitive, at age 39 or 40 he can still outplay and outwit younger guys and even outscore the opposing team’s top scorer and at times shut them down. While fans would like to erase the memory of him playing for Washington, I on the other hand will remember how he torched Cleveland once again just like the way he torched them in 89 AKA The Shot 3. The night he scored 40, his All Star Game classic in 2003. Jordan will always be remembered as a competitor, the tongue sticking, air gliding, rim rattling, fade away making, player he simply is the greatest. Thank you Michael, now stop sucking as an executive.