Sports, Scores & More

2009 UAAP Men's Basketball Final Four Complete

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 03:19:00 +0000

After the Ateneo De Manila University Blue Eagles win over the Far Eastern University Tamaraws last night 74 - 73, the Final Four of the 2009 UAAP Men's Senior Basketball competition is now complete and the semifinal pairings cast.

The Ateneo Blue Eagles will face the fading UST Growling Tigers and appears to easily march into the finals. Unless, coach Pido can pull a major ace up his sleeves, his wards would stand no chance against the defending champs.

The other semifinal match will pit the FEU tamaraws and the surging UE Red Warriors. The Warriors was able to avenged their first round defeat against the Tamaraws in a convincing fashion. The Tams should be wary of an upset and must take care of the Warriors right in the first game. Otherwise, a do-or-die second game will only increase the Warriors confidence.

I am expecting an ATENEO - FEU final and wishing the Tamaraws to win.

US Open 2009 Womens Semifinal Result | Clijster through the Finals, Serena Williams out cos of Unsportmanslike point penalty

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 03:05:00 +0000

Comebacking mom Kim Clijster continues her amazing run at the 2009 US Open Womens Single Tennis Championships as she defeated defending champ Serena Williams in a terrific match with the most bizaare ending 6-4 7-5 to advance to the Women's Final.

Clijsters played a superb game winning the first set 6 - 4.

On the second set, Clijster, still up at 4 - 3, had a double breakpoint against the serving Williams. However, Williams came up with two big aces to level to deuce and added another to erase another breakpoint and level the match.

With Clijster up 6 - 5, Serena was called for a foot fault on serve. She got mad on the line umpire that called it. The chair umpire called the line umpire. After which, a point penalty was given to Serena which led to her losing the game and the match at 7 - 5.

Later, Caroline Wozniacki advance to the final after defeating fellow 19 year old Wickmayer.

Obviously, the sentimental favorite to win is Kim Clijster who won the event in 2005.

UAAP 72 Basketball Results | UE, DLSU prevails over respective foes in 2 OT

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 21:24:00 +0000

The UE Red Warriors and the DLSU Green Archers proved to be tougher as each prevailed after two overtime periods over separate foes in the first round of eliminations in Men's Basketball of UAAP Season 72

The favored UE Red Warriors overcame a slow start, and a determined but hard-luck Adamson Falcons squad to post a a 95 - 91 win.

Paul Lee bounced back from a below-par performance in their previous game with a superb all-around game of 23 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists. He fed teammate Pari Llagas with a long-court past for the go ahead basket 93 - 91 in the 2nd OT.

The Falcons continue its luckless season as they lost another close match. They started the game well, and fought back hard on the fourth quarter to force overtime. Rookie Cabrera starred for the Falcons in the fourth quarter but proved to be not enough.

UE improved its slate to 3-2 to stay close to the leaders.

In the second game, DLSU came back from 17 points down to score an upset of sorts over the UST growling Tigers.

The Tigers went comfortably ahead in the third quarter. But rookie Arvie Bringas started the rally with a three point conversion before the quarter ended to cut the deficit to a more manageable 12 point lead.

In the fourth quarter, DLSU played superb defense to catch UST. Kish Co tied the game at 82 all to force the first overtime.

PJ Barua, hit his first field goal of Season 72, a trey, to tie the game at 90 all with 5.5 seconds left in the first OT. UST failed to convert in the next play that signalled the 2nd OT.

In the second overtime, the Green Archers limited the Tigers to just one Camus 2-point field goal to notch their fourth straight win.

The Tigers was the more favored team on this one, given that they have two great starters in Ababou and Mirza while DLSU has a lot young players.

But DLSU still have adefensive system that proved enough to stop the Tigers' top players. The win also showed that DLSU should still be included in the contenders list.

The win also puts the Archers in a confident morale as they will be facing next the top two teams at least on paper, Ateneo and FEU.

2009 UAAP Basketball | Defending Champ Ateneo opens campaign edging FEU 63 - 59

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 14:35:00 +0000

The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles opened up its back-to-back title campaign in 2009 UAAP Basketball by beating one of the highly touted contenders, Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 63 - 59.

FEU, this year's UAAP host, fed off from the crowd to take an 8 - 0 lead. But the Eagles clamped down on defense while Eric Salamat and last year's MVP, Rabeh Al-Hussaini led the Eagles counter attack. Kirk Long, Jai Reyes and 2008 Rookie of the Year, Ryan Buenafe joined the fray to give Ateneo a 17 - 11 advantage after the first quarter.

An inspired Ateneo Second unit shot gave the Eagles a big lift on the 2nd quarter as they padded the lead to 11, 34 - 23. The Eagles displayed an outside shooting they are capable off as Eman Monfort hit two and Buenafe, Niko Salva and Jai Reyes each had one three-point conversion. Only a good performance by Aldrech on the defensive allowed FEU to inch closer. Ramos blocked two shots and connected on a fade away. Ateneo took a 40 - 29 lead at the half.

Reil Cervantes of FEU scored 4 quick points at the start what would be a frenetic 3rd quarter.Last year's top swatters, Nonoy Baclao and Ramos each had defensive moments in this quarter. Stocky-built Noundu also demostrated that he can be a good on ball defender. Barroca tied it at 44 all before Eric Salamat gave the lead back to Ateneo on a fastbreak lay up of his own. The quarter ended with Ateneo still up but only be 3 points, 50 - 47.

The fourth quarter was more of a grind out defensive quarter. Ramos tied game at 54 all. But the Blue Eagles scored the next 7 points with only a little over a minute left in the game. But the Tamarraws were not yet finished. Ramos completed a three-point play on a put back basket and Reil Cervantes scored on a drive to cut the lead to two, 59 - 61. Buenafe added a free-throw before rookie Garcia missed a potential game tying trey. Hussaini finished the scoring 63 - 59 in favor of Ateneo.

FEU has two promising rookies to watch out for, RR Garcia and Nioundo (did not get the complete and accurate name).

On the first game, NU whipped UP.

Roger Federer breaks Sampras' all time record, Gets 15th in Wimbledon

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:40:00 +0000

Roger Federer finally broke a resilient Andy Roddick in the 5th Set of another memorable Wimbledon final to capture the 2009 Wimbledon crown , his 6th and more importantly his 15th Singles Grand Slam title.

The floodgates of the debate as to who is the Greatest Of All Time is now wide open. Federer makes a strong case because he now holds the all-time singles grand slam titles record at 15. And last month, became just the six person to win all grand slam events titles..

The 2009 Wimbledon got on an inauspicious start with the pull-out of defending champ and world no. 1 Rafael Nadal due to injuries. Without Rafa, the road to the title was expected to be easier for Federer. He practically breezed his way to the finals to face Roddick, a foe he has dominated. And everyone thought the title is already in bag.

Everyone was right in the result, not with the way it was achieved.

When I caugght the telecast on cable, it was Roddick who was up a set and leading on the second set tie break 6 - 2. Seeing that score, I already conceded the set to Roddick and check on some other programs. When I came back, it was all leveled up.

With that, I thought Roddick will just implode. More so when Federer won the third set on another tie break. But Roddick played better in the fourth, taking it 6 - 3. The fifth set was a marathon.

Federer had many break opportunities to break Roddick in the match but Roddick kept coming up with booming serves and great plays. I guess it just but fitting that Federer wins after breaking Roddick for the only time in the match.

I salute Roddick for a great match and a great post-match humour. The way each held serve is phenomenal and they kept at it all throughout that is good for the fans and the sport.

Last year finals between Rafa and Fed was called the greatest ever played. This years final comes a close second only because last year featured a better rivalry and the top men in tennis.

Is there anything more to aspire for Federer? A calendar grandslam and a grand slam final win over Rafael Nadal on any surface.

Kobe Bryant & Lakers finish off Orlando

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 03:32:00 +0000

Kobe Bryant finally won his fourth championship and first without Shaq as he led the Los Angeles Lakers in finishing off the Orlando Magic in Game 5 of the 2009 NBA Finals.

Bryant and the Lakers did not wait to comeback to their homecourt for Game 6 as the franchise notched its 15th championship. As expected, Bryant received the Bill Russel trophy.

Despite his earlier pronouncement, Dwight Howard was not able to come big and help his team prolong their magical season.

Orlando's outside shooting that helped them reach the Finals was never a factor against the much hungrier Lakers. Hopefully, Dwight Howard and the rest of the team will be motivated as the Lakers after they lost last year to the Celtics.

Mayweather-Marquez Fight Postponed

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 03:24:00 +0000

I read from inquirer.net that the scheduled Mayweather-Marquez fight in July will be postponed because Mayweather injured his rib during training.

If this fight will be moved, chances of a Pacquiao-Mayweather showdown will be early next year. Or maybe, this postponement will paved the way for a Pacquiao-Marquez III?

We all have to wait for further developments.

Steve Nash as NBA Finals correspondent of the David Letterman Show

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 19:03:00 +0000

I just caught the latter part of Hardball's replay of their June 12 show where in they featured Steve Nash as the 2009 NBA Finals correspondent for the David Letterman Show. Gosh, I have been missing a lot.

I am a big fan of Steve Nash and still feels bad about him and my phoenix suns not making the playoffs this season. And I am blaming Steve Kerr for that!

Nash, still being part of the NBA Finals, is some consolation for us fans. I just hopes he gets at least one championship ring before he hangs up his jersey.

Roger in Paris | Federer captures French Open as his 14th Grandslam Title

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 19:11:00 +0000

Roger Federer finally triumphs in Paris as he captured the elusive French Open Men's Singles Tennis grandslam crown after beating the tournament's surprise Robin Soderling in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6 and 6 - 4.

After falling short against Clay court king Nadal for the past 3 years, Federer finally won the one grandslam he has yet to win not until now. In the process, he adds two more achievement in his already illustirous Tennis career.

The French Open crown he just won is his 14th grandslam single title that equals the record held by another tennis great Pete Sampras. I guess more importantly Federer became only the sixth man to complete a career grandslam.

Andre Agassi, the last man who completed a career grandslam and coincidentally also in Roland Garros in Paris, was the man who presented the trophy.

Federer can thank his finals opponent in clearing an easier route for him towards the crown. Soderling, the losing finalist, is the one who upset and eliminated four-time and defending champion Rafael Nadal in the earlier rounds.

Soderling played the best tennis week of his career but only managed to threaten the eventual champ on the second set. Federer needed a tie break to win the set against him.

The magnitude of the victory has Federer tearful while the Swiss national anthem is being played. Truly, he can now be at ease for the rest of his career.

And because Sampras never won the French Open, Roger Federer is now more aptly called, albeit still arguably, the greatest tennis player of all time.

Missing out on some Sporting events

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 04:32:00 +0000

The past few days made me busy and prevented my from watching ongoing sporting events and blogging about it.

The billiards or pool season had already begun but I failed to watch the Philippine Open 10 ball pool championships. I saw a part of Womens' World Ten ball championships but never got to know who won. Perhaps a consolation, I saw one match of Shannel Lorraine. Hehehe!!!

I also failed to watch the game clinching Game 6 of the eastern finals between the Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers. I also missed Game 1 of the 2009 NBA Finals. Waaaaaaaaahhh!!!!

The coming week is more likely to be just the same. :(

2009 NBA Playoffs Conference Series

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sat, 30 May 2009 07:40:00 +0000

Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers finished off the Denver Nuggets 119 - 92 in Game 6 of their Western Conference Finals Series and earn a return trip to the NBA Finals.

Meanwhile on the East, the Magic will try to advance to the NBA Finals since the Shaq and Penny days.

The Magic still needs the series 3 - 2 after Lebron James delivered another sublime playoff performance in Game 5 to extend the Cavs season. Finally, King James' men showed up when it matters the most - most notably Boobie Gibson.

French Open 2009 : Federer Advance to 3rd Round

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Fri, 29 May 2009 10:52:00 +0000

I was switching channels; on CS9, Game 5 of Magic-Cavs and on Studio 23 the French Open 2009 featuring World No.2 Roger Federer in the 2nd round.

The first time I went to Studio 23, the score on the bottom displays Federer won the first set. And they where about to start the second set.

When I came back, it was a set apiece.

On my next return, Federer's opponent was up 4 - 1 in the third set. And I thought oh-oh... Federer is about to lose... again. My theory that I am jinxing Federer grew by the minute. And honestly I have resigned to accept the fact that Federer would lose again.

So, I just decided not to switch channels anymore but I can't helped it. Hehehe!!! To my surprise, when I returned to Studio 23, Federer is now up 6 - 5.

Probably, the comeback of Federer demoralized his opponent and fought not as persistent as before.

In the fourth set, Federer prevailed to moved on to the third round.

Roger Federer celebrates victory over Jose Acasuso in Paris.
Photograph: Bertrand Guay/AFP/Getty Images

Link to Image Source

2009 NBA Playoffs | Magic pulls thru, leads the Cavs 3-1

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Wed, 27 May 2009 03:47:00 +0000

The Orlando Magic takes a commanding 3 - 1 series lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers after Lebron James missed the potential game-winning three 116 - 114 in OT of Game 4 in their Eastern Conference Finals series in the 2009 NBA Playoffs.
King James sent the game into overtime, hitting two free throws to tie it at 100 apiece.

In overtime, Dwight Howard muscled his way inside for 10 points to lead the way and offset the spectacular James who as usual carried the Cavs including knocking in a wicked fade away three to keep the Cavs in the game.

When Lewis made only one of two free throws, 116 - 114 with 3.2 ticks to go, everyone knew that the Cavs would go to James to win the game just like in Game 2. It was a good thing that the Cavs have no timeout to call to setup a better play. James fired the shot some steps after the halfcourt line and fell short.

In the first half, King James and the King's men showed up. They even had a run before the first half ended to have a 58 - 50 lead. In the second half, the Magic knocked threes and the played good enough defense. The King's men again failed to support James.

In the end, Lebron and the Cavs facing the tall task of coming back from a 3 - 1 series deficit, last done I believe by my Phoenix Suns against Kobe's Lakers.

It is really plain to see why the best team in the regular season is on the ropes against the Magic. It's the supporting cast to James that is missing especially in the crucial moments of the game.

*****
I was putting off writing another entry about the NBA Playoffs until this game because I thought it would also be 2-2 like in the West. That way I get to write only one post for both conferences' finals series.

Well, the Magic are now closing in in returning to the NBA Finals since 1995. That seems to be apparent if Mo Williams' foray to fortune telling or the James supporting casts' performance do not improve soon.

2009 NBA Playoffs | Nuggets beat Lakers, West Conference Finals 1-1

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Fri, 22 May 2009 03:57:00 +0000

No Escape this time for Kobe & company at the Denver Nuggets beat the Los Angeles Lakers to even up their Western Conference Championship series 1 - 1 in the on going 2009 NBA Playoffs

I just checked the game on NBA Gamecast, and here is the final score.

I was out of the house early, gone to register in a short course and pay some bills. That is why I did not catch Game 2 of the West Finals between the Nuggets and the Lakers on TV.

Good thing I went to a bank in SM City North Edsa. Because I just learned that the activity area in THE BLOCK is now one of the free wifi locations in the Metro.

After I connected to the free wifi, I went to NBA Gamecast. Chauncey Billups clinch the game at the free throw line.

With the series going to Denver, the Nuggets are riding on a big confidence boost. The series could have been 2 - 0 in their favor now.

For most of the season, the Lakers are favored to take the West again. But Houston perhaps made the Lakers doubt themselves in their conference semifinal series.

If Denver defends their homecourt for games 3 and 4, I think they will be in the finals.

2009 NBA Playoffs | Lewis, Magic shock Cavs in Eastern Conference Finals Game 1

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:46:00 +0000

Rashard Lewis knocked the game winning three as the Orlando Magic toughed out a Game 1 upset over highly favored Cleveland Cavaliers 107 - 106 to start the 2009 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals.

Coming from a great Game 7 win over dethroned champs Celtics, the Magic again displayed mental toughness throughout the second half to defeat Lebron James and the Cavs to steal home court advantage in the series.

Coach Stan Van Gundy's gameplan worked as they allowed Lebron James to work hard for the bulk of the Cavs offense and limiting James' supporting cast to standing and watching most of the game.

James just put the lead back to the Cavs with a three point play that led to Dwight Howards sixth and last foul. But Rashard Lewis knocked in the game winning three. In the Cavs final play, James passed to a teammate who failed to connect from the outside. A jump ball resulted in the battle for the loose ball with just a second left in the game between Hedo Turkoglu and Lebron James. James tapped the ball to Williams who failed to connect from the top of the key.

The Cavs are coming from a long lay-off after breezing through the first two rounds sweeping the Pistons and the Hawks in double digit wins. In their first taste of competitive playoff atmosphere, James' cast never got going like they used to do in the regular season.

James scored 49 points but it appeared that carrying cavs the entire game took its toll on him somehow. He missed 3 free throws and had cramps at the end of the game.

The Magic meanwhile had a great team effort in defense and getting great games from Lewis, Howard and Turkoglu plus solid support from Pietrus and Alson.

2009 NBA Playoffs | Magic End Celtics Repeat Bid

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:40:00 +0000

The Orlando Magic finally put an end to the Boston Celtics' bid for a second consecutive championship, dethroning the champs with a convincing 101 - 82 Game 7 win right at the Celtics storied homecourt.

The win was a sort of statement in itself that the Magic is indeed a contender for the crown as they have shown in the regular season. Now they have the chance to face Lebron James and the mighty Cleveland Cavaliers that many have picked to reach the NBA Finals.

This time the homecourt advantage and the game 7 pedigree of the Celtics was not enough to stage a comeback hold off the young and hungry Magic team.

Rajon Rondo just beat the third quarter buzzer to pull the Celtics within five points of the Magic, 61 - 65. But the Magic scored 8 straight points at the start of the fourth to widen the gap.

All seemed is not yet lost when Dwight Howard picked up his fifth personal foul, forcing Van Gundy to sitt him on the bench. When Ray Allen knocked off a trey to cut the lead the Magic's lead to 12, I thought the comeback is again on.

But the threat was quickly fanned out by Hedo Turkoglu 3 and I could not watch anymore.

I was so accustomed with the Celtics coming big down the stretch especially in their homecourt. Perhaps I read too much off Bill Simmon's column. I actually waited for that magic feeling that something special is about to happen for the Celtics.

There wass magic alright but not from the champs. Rather, it comes from the guys from Orlando. They have learned they lesson well. This time they were ready for the champs. Ooops... the Celtics are now just former champs.

2009 NBA Playoffs | Davis' gamewinner ties Celtics-Magic series 2 - 2

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 11 May 2009 08:32:00 +0000

Glen "Big Baby" Davis nailed a jumper at the buzzer to lift the Bostic Celtics to a 95 - 94 win over the Orlando Magic to even their 2nd round Eastern Conference Semifinal Series, 2 all, in the 2009 NBA Playoffs.

Down by one with only 11.3 seconds left, the defending champs were facing a dark prospect of going down 1 - 3 in the series. The Magic were able to clamped down on Allen and was successful in forcing the ball out of Pierce's hands but they failed to cover Davis making the game-winning jumper as time expired, stunning all the Magic fans at their homecourt.

Finally, I was able to catch an exciting game on these NBA Playoffs live and not just from highlight reels.

I honestly thought that the Celtics would lose when Pierce passed the ball. Instead, I was surprised in a good way to see Davis pull through and the men in green still prevailing in the game.

Later in an interview, Davies credited the extra effort he made in shooting practice and believing in himself making it as the key to that shot.

The champs will definitely have momentum on their side going to Game 5 in Boston.

Manny Pacquiao KOs Hatton in Round 2

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:38:00 +0000

Photo from Telegraph.co.uk

This is an obligatory Pacman post. It's way late but as a Filipino, I still want to savor the moment.

I'm relishing the thought that Manny Pacquiao silenced the throngs of Hatton fans that watched the Battle of East vs West in Las Vegas. Same with proving wrong the loud-mouth Floyd Mayweather Sr.

In prefight interviews, I believe Hatton basically claimed that he will shock the world by beating Pacquiao. True, we were shocked. Unfortunately, it was Hatton who was down in the canvass in just two rounds.

Prior to the fight, almost all of boxing predicted that Hatton will be a tougher foe than the Golden Boy considering he is undeafeted in the 140 lbs division. Come to think of it, an aging De la Hoya was able to last for 6 rounds with the Pacman.

Manny, you know, there is another loudmouth named Floyd Mayweather Jr. out there. Of course, you know what to do...

Pacquiao vs Hatton Fight, just hours away

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sat, 02 May 2009 05:11:00 +0000

It's a long weekend here in the Philippines and the whole country is eager in anticipation for the fight of the year - Pacquiao vs Hatton - where the Junior Welterweight 140 lb championship and the right to be called pound-for-pound champion is at stake.

Image taken from espn.com

Fans are all excited because the reputation of these two pugilists promises to be an action-packed bout from the opening bell and that it will end with a knockout. I sure hope when that happens, I will see the familiar scene of Pacquiao kneeling in a corner thanking God for another spectacular win.

Just like his surname, Pacquiao has the collective "wholesale" backing of all Filipinos. One of the few times our nation has shown unity. Venues showing the fight in pay-per-view are making a killing in ticket sales like mall cinemas and restaurants. Those who can not afford to pay can still get lucky and catch the fight live if their local leaders set up free viewing in city gyms. For the rest, they would rely at the advertisement-thick coverage of free local TV stations.

Just like his last fight, I hope my friend in the US will again mirror the Pacquiao - Hatton fight via webcam in Yahoo Messenger. Hehehe!!!

Boxing experts and analysts pick Pacquiao to come out on top slightly ahead of Hatton. Whatever the case, I feel proud that Manny is drawing consideration as the greatest Asian boxer because of his success in winning championships in differenet weight classes. A win will surely put an exclamation point to that argument.

Moreover, the winner of the bout is virtually assured of an equally lucrative bout against recently unretired Floyd Mayweather Jr.

My bet, Pacquiao over Hatton in 8 rounds.

PBA All Star Week 2009

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 09:30:00 +0000

The PBA All Star Week 2009 turned out to be one of the more entertaining renditions of the Philippine Basketball Associations annual all-star festivities in recent memory.

Paul Artadi of Baranggay Ginebra Gin Kings captured the Obstacle Challenge in style over fellow speedsters L.A Tenorio and Egay Billones. Artadi, dunking to start his turn, was a good treat for the fans. Defending champ Willie Miller failed to win the event for the fourth consecutive time.

James Yap, followed his former UE teammate Artadi by capturing the Three Point Shootout. Saving his best for last, Yap delivered a memorable performance in the finals. He shot all the balls in the first rack helping him run away with the title over hotshots Dondon Hontiveros and Gary David.

Defending champ Ren-ren Ritualo could have been in the finals but one of his 2-point shot was nullified because he shot it before completing all the 1-point balls.

Larry Fonacier started the event but unfortunately was made to repeat his turn because a ball in the fourth rack fell to the floor. If I was part of the committee, I wouldn't make Fonacier repeat his turn. Fonacier's score on his second turn was way low than the first, obviously he had already lost the rythm and some legs.

Also, I think it's a wrong decision to have a voice-over commentator while participants are completing their turn in the three point competition.

The slam dunk contest seemed destined to be a bore with the not-so-good dunks and missed dunks from the imports. David Noel, Baranggay Ginebra's import prevailed over San Miguel Beermen's G. Freeman and Sta. Lucia's Anthony Johnson.

KG Canaleta failed to follow his former UE Teammates (Artadi & Yap)as he lost in the local slam dunk division to Gabe Norwood of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters. Jarred Dilinger pumped up the crowd with his Pacman boxing attire but failed to complete his dunk.

Only the dunk off saved the event. David Noel delivered two perfect dunks over Gabe Norwood. The last one was doing a cart wheel and back flip before dunking the ball. He actually used that in winning the 2006 NCAA slam dunk competition.

Perhaps it would have been more exciting if Norwood was made to dunk first in the second round of the dunk off. Well, that's just me.

Noel capped the event with a just a step after the free-throw line dunk to the delight of the crowd.

UAAP Badminton [Now] on Philippine TV

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 06:34:00 +0000

Badminton in the Philippines gains a much needed exposure as the UAAP Season 71 Badminton competitions was shown on Studio 23.

I'm glad I caught some badminton action on free TV last Wednesday afternoon. It is the only sport I play nowadays. More telecasts like it would revive interest in the sport that peaked some 3 years ago.

Normally, I catch badminton games only on cable TV. Where I see Europeans, Chinese, South Koreans, Malaysians and Indonesians play quality badminton.

I still remember the first few times my friends invited me to their smashing gigs. Almost all badminton centers we went to were full. In one instance, we lost a reservation because we arrived late. Our supposed to be "reserved" court was given to another group.

But nowadays, I can not say the same. Although there are times the venue we play at still get fully occupied.

The young players featured in the competition is a ray of hope for Philippine badminton. More importantly, if more kids would take the sport, the country would have lots of talented players from the grassroots level and future Filipino international players would surely come.

Action Packed April 19 - A sportsfan's dream

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:28:00 +0000

Come Sunday, sportsfans like me will be treated to an action-filled April 19.

The first ever double world title fight in the Philippines dubbed "The Flash and The Furious" will be held at the historic Araneta Coliseum.

The 2009 NBA Playoffs will start on the same day.

As well as UFC 97 Redemption.

Hopefully, I could watch and enjoy them all and blog about all of them as well.

I.

In this historic bout, Nonito "the Filipino Flash" Donaire Jr. will stake his IBF Flyweight crown against Raul "the Cobra" Martinez while Bryan "the Hawaiian Punch" Viloria will challenge Ulises Solis for the IBF Light Flyweight belt.

The boxing event will also feature two up and coming Filipino Boxers in Denver "the excitement" Cuello and Sonny Boy Jaro. GMA - 7 will show the bout at 1 pm.

II.

Even without my Phoenix Suns, the fan in me eagerly awaits the 2009 NBA Playoffs to see who will emerge as champions.

With the MVP award almost assured, is this the year of Lebron's first championship ? Will Kobe and the Lakers complete the job this time around? Are the Boston Celtics capable of defending their crown without leader Kevin Garnett? Or will another team come from nowhere to lay claim on the championship? These are questions among others that will be answered soon.

CS/9 coverage will start at 10:30 am

III.

UFC 97 will feature Middleweight King Anderson "the Spider" Silva as he will try to defend his belt for the fifth consecutive time against Thales Leites. MMA Legend Chuck "the Iceman" Liddel will battle Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. Channel 23 will show this at 10 pm in the evening.

Now that slate of sporting events is really something to look forward to.

Monday after the 2009 Masters | Angel Cabrera wears the Green Jacket

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:20:00 +0000

Monday after the 2009 Masters Golf Championships at Augusta, Georgia, the golf world congratulates another first time Green jacket wearer, Angel Cabrera of Argentina.

Cabrera, also known as El Pato, won his second major championship title after making a par on the second playoff hole against a fading Kenny Perry. Becoming the first South American Masters champ and the lowest-ranked player to win the Masters.

The tournament started with pundits and golf expert expecting a showdown between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson for the coveted green jacket. Well, they did have a showdown to the delight of the gallery that followed them when they are paired for the final round. Only that their last ditch effort both fell short.

Looking back, they did were not able to capitalize on the first and second round where the famed Augusta Golf course relented low scores.

Coming off a dramatic win at the Arnold Palmer invitational, Woods was expected, as usual, to stomp his class over the field, me definitely included. But for some reasons, he seemed to had a difficult time with the course compared with the other players in the opening rounds.

How I wish, there was a player who called out to Tiger and pissed him off. Probably, that would drive Tiger nuts to win in Augusta.

I think he, himself, would be pissed off with his performance on the first major of the year, and release his frustrations when he defends his US Open title. This time with two good knees.

*** Image taken from Wikipedia.

Tiger Woods is Back, Wins Arnold Palmer Invitational in Dramatic Come-from-behind Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 01:15:00 +0000

Tiger Woods is finally back... back to winning. After knee surgery and two tournaments this year, Woods captured the Arnold Palmer Invitational for his first victory of the year in a dramatic come-from-behind win - with a flair we are so accustomed to see in him.

I was fortunate to tuned in and catch Woods making par at the 14th hole still down one stroke to Sean O'hair. But when he connected on a long birdie putt at the 15th to tie it, I felt that all the momentum is on Tiger's side and Sean O'hair would need to make something special to turn the tide.

At the 16th, O'hair's ball landed on the water and Tiger finally took the lead. On the 17th, Tiger had a bogey because his ball fell on a difficult lie on after the tee.

It was tied going into the last hole but you can sensed from the crowd that they knew Tiger would win.

And he did in superb style. Tiger birdied the last hole to capture his sixth title in this event and 66th win in his PGA Tour Career.

He started the day 5 shots back and his win proved onced again he could come back to win a tournament although he has yet to do that in major championships.

The win is definitely a big boost as he prepares for his favorite golf major championship, The Masters on April.

Japan defends their World Baseball Classic crown, tops South Korea

noreply@blogger.com (doms) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 06:36:00 +0000

Japan finally outlasted resilient South Korea in the 10th inning to defend their crown and capture the 2009 World Baseball Classic 5 -3 in a classic battle of two of most fundamentally sound baseball teams in the world.

Ichiro Suzuki carried the Samurai side over the pesky South Koreans with a 2 RBI double in the top of the 10th to put Japan up 5 - 3. Japanese phenom, 22 year-old Yu Darvish finished off the South Koreans with a strike out after giving the tying run on the 9th inning.

For most of the game, Japan outhit the Koreans. But the Koreans' defense kept holding out from breaking away.

Ogasawara started the scoring with single RBI on the top of the 3rd inning. With bases loaded and only one out, the Koreans came out with a double play to end the inning only down by 1.

On the next inning, Japan once again threatened to have a wide lead but the Koreans came up with a strikeout double play.

Fired up with their great defense, the South Korean sides tied the game up when Shin Soo Choo homers again Iwakuma who retired the first 11 batters he faced, striking out 4.

At the bottom of the sixth inning, Iwakuma walks lead off hitter y k lee. Then Iwakuma and Catcher Jojihma came up with a strikeout double play of their own to end the inning.

On the top of the 7th inning, Kataoka leads with a single and stoles 2nd base. Ichiro then produces a perfect bunt to reach first base and move Kataoka to 3rd. Nakajima singles next to bring Kataoka home, Japan up 2 - 1. The Koreans once more came up with a spectacular catch and another double play to end Japan's threat. The Korean batters that came to the plate all flew out to the field with Uchikawa coming up with two left field catches.

Japan added another run on the top of the 8th with a sac fly RBI for a 3 - 1 lead. Korea answers back with a sacrifice fly of their own to inch closer 3 - 2.

Sugiuchi replaces starting pitcher Iwakuma at the plate to finish the inning and protect the one run lead.

At the top of the 9th, Ichiro leads with a double off pitcher C Y Lim. Second Baseman Y M Ko takes a way a base hit from Nakajima with a spectacular diving catch and holds Ichiro on 2nd base. Then the Koreans intentionally walks Aoki. Kenji Johjima flies out to center while Ogasawara struck.

On the 9th inning, Japan put the young phenom Yu Darvish to close out the Koreans.

After striking out the first batter, Darvish yields two walks before striking out another. With only one out left, Bum Ho Lee hits an rbi single to tie the game.

Darvish makes amend by striking out the next batter and game goes to extra innings.

Uchikawa leads in the 10th inning with a single. Inaba grounds out next but moves Uchikawa on scoring position. Iwamura connects on a base hit as Japan once again has two on bases. Pinch hitter Kawasaki flies out to center.

Then it was Ichiro's moment.

After being down 2 strikes, Ichiro comes up with a 2 RBI double to give the lead back to Japan. He even stole 3rd base. The next Japanese batter was hit on the hips was also able to steal 2nd base. Aoki was intentionally walked to load the bases. But Jojihma struck out again to end their inning.

Yu Darvish once again on the mound to close out the Koreans and quickly gives a lead-off walk. But he struck out the next batter, forces the next batter to fly out to center and then finished off the koreans with another strikeout.

Japan wins the World Baseball Classic 2009 and the first two.

Daisuke Matsuzaka once again was named MVP of the tournament after going 6 - 6 in his WBC career and now 2 of 2 MVPss. But definitely for the finals, Ichiro should be the best player.