ORANI, Bataan – Two star players from the Alaska Aces of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) graced the summer basketball league in Barangay Mulawin of this first class municipality last Sunday.
Before proceeding to the game opening, I had the chance to have a brief talk and photo opportunity with these PBA players namely Vic Manuel and Calvin Abueva.
The event was sponsored by businessman Marvin S. Dela Cruz of MSD Trucking who wants to help the youth in his adopted hometown to focus more on sports activities like basketball.
“Gusto natin mainspire ang mga kabataan dito sa kanilang paglalaro ng basketball at ma focus sila sa mga bagay na magpapaunlad sa kanilang kaisipan at pangangatawan at makaiwas sa masasamang bisyo kagaya ng ilegal na droga at pag inom ng alak,” Dela Cruz told this reporter.
Vic “The Muscleman” Manuel (jersey no. 87) is known for his breakout conference in the 2016 Philippine Cup where he normed 15.7 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists as he helped Alaska reach the finals for the third time in the last 4 conferences. He also tied his career-high 24 points in Game 1 of the finals.
His performance, his grind-it-out style, and the boundless energy that complements that of teammate Calvin Abueva.
Meanwhile, Calvin Abueva (jersey no. 88) was nicknamed “The Beast” due to the all-around threat he brings at both ends of the court, he dominated the nation’s collegiate ranks by posting excellent numbers during his tenure with the San Sebastian College – Recoletos Stags in the NCAA.
He also became the first player in collegiate basketball history to lead a college league in points, rebounds, and assists. Due to his versatility, his being frequently listed between 6’1 and 6’2, and his position as an undersized power forward for the Aces, Abueva has been frequently compared to the legendary import Sean Chambers.
PBA star players command big following from fans from all walks of life. They are athletes who push the limits in Philippine basketball and inspire the spectators.
Each star player is unique and has his own character, style and flavor on offer in terms of their game.
Out of these uniqueness come the alias or monikers that the ever so creative media or sports writers has christened upon them.