What Went Wrong With BGSM This Conference?

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel ended their All-Filipino campaign with a 102-89 loss to Rain or Shine. It was a similar result last year with the Elasto Painters knocking out the Gin Kings in the quarterfinals.

So once again Ginebra's quest for a championship continues. As one of the most aggressive teams during the off season, hopes were high that BGSM would finally put an end to their title drought. Who would not be excited with a line-up that has promising rookies Chris Ellis, Keith Jensen, and Yousef Taha. Ginebra also acquired LA Tenorio prior to the start of the season.

Ginebra started off the conference with 2 straight wins and then lost 5 straight but bounced back with a five game winning streak. Unfortunately, they ended the elimination round with two losses.

On paper, Ginebra was one of the top teams having depth in all positions. They were also a mixture of young guns and veterans. Looking at their performance, it was really all down to the coach. The line-up was oozing with potential and yet they were not fully utilized. Man for man, the Kings can challenge top teams like Talk n Text and Petron but poor coaching on most instances did the Kings in.

With another early vacation, the Ginebra management has enough time to ponder on their next move for the 2nd conference. They have plenty of time to iron out their line-up issues, build on their chemistry, and scout for a good import. For now, it's see you next conference. Can't wait to see you back on the floor again. We will continue to support and cheer for you until you get that very elusive 9th crown.

Will History Repeat Itself?

Was it not a few months ago when Barangay Ginebra San Miguel was struggling to find a way to win. And now, when they were able to find a winning formula, it seems that they cannot stop winning. Heading into their game against Barako, the Kings are now one of the hottest teams in the league with five straight wins.

During that five game losing streak, Ginebra was all over the papers and in social networking sites. And now that they are winning, they are still a hot property-- talk about being the most popular team in the league. Let's see how they did it.

I guess going back to the basics was a good strategy for Coach Siot. It's the veterans who are delivering for Ginebra. It's nice to see JJ Helterbrand back to his old form. He may not be scoring as much as he used to but his leadership on the floor is undeniable. LA Tenorio may have finally found his game in Ginebra. Spotting open men with his pinpoint passing, scoring crucial jumpers and treys, and all the other intangibles he can bring. Of course, there is reigning MVP Mark Caguioa who is consistently churning in MVP numbers.

Credit all goes to Rico Maierhoffer and Billy Mamaril. Big Mama has seen his most productive conference ever. For a guy who is battling a personal issue with his wife, hats off to you Billy. Rico Maeirhoffer is turning out to be a prized catch indeed. His hustle and energy is infectious as well.

Finally, there is also our rookies. Air Force Ellis and Yousef Taha. Ellis has been delivering double figure games in the last four wins of Ginebra. He is also showing his defensive skills. Yousef Taha has been an epitome of energy and hustle. Since acquiring him, the Kings have not yet lost. He comes off the bench to spell Big Mama but he delivers quality minutes when he is on the floor.

I remember the last time Ginebra won a championship. They were 0-5 before they got Cris Alexander and then they romped off 13 straight wins to grab the 2008 crown, their last championship. Is Ginebra following the same route they took in 2008? Well with the way they are playing, I will not be surprised if they finally end their four-year title drought.