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Cresta Verde Mountaineers pounded by So Awkward Players 78-94


Vulcan Arena, Quezon City -- The Cresta Verde Mountaineers bumped against a formidable opponent in So Awkward Players as they were defeated 94-78 - they are now 0-3 against them.

So Awkward Players zoomed in the first quarter scoring 29 points compared to the Mountaineers dismal 12 point quarter then never looked back.

"We came out flat," GM Nicolo Maro said. "we have yet to win a league game in 2014."

He added that 'the process is starting to unfold as we look to more rough patches in the coming games.' It is very much evident as this early of the season, they are playing catch-up or to put one analyst bluntly 'the Mountaineers are not of the same level with the rest of the team in the league.'

Six players scored in double figures for SAP led by Bandar Garganera with 22 points and 10 rebounds. He was ably supported by Arcadio Silva with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Fillmore Sabangan led the Mountaineers with 24 points and 11 rebounds while Marion Pacete and Renald Geonanga chipped in 20 points apiece.

Renald may have been the best player on the floor but it wasn't enough as, always, he was plagued with foul trouble getting five in 26 minutes.

"Part of it must have been his aggressiveness as he needs to do much with so litte" a fan observed.

Claudio Regala played all 48 minutes but only managed 7 points but Steve Valle was worse with zero points in 35 minutes.

The Mountaineers will now face Bugo HeadCrackers who managed to win away from home against Manila All-Stars during their match-up with a 89-78 victory.

Player of the game: B. Garganera - 22 points and 10 rebounds.
X-factor: A. Sila - 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Breaking news: Cresta Verde Mountaineers lost an all-time great player..


Vulcan Arena, Quezon City -- Sitting on his desk, sipping a cup of tea, wasting almost an hour that he could have used in other important matters, GM Nicolo Maro could not help but think he wasted precious time to give-up Inaki Dasilao(31225778) to J for Justin, a Hong Kong division III team.

"Oh my, I could not believe that someone would be as crazy as J to outbid us," GM Nicolo Maro with a grin on his face. "I mean, I can outbid him - no doubt - but I didn't see value in getting Inaki triple the price while other teams would use it for a top-flight player."

Dasilao is a 20 year old player with an all-time great potential and the Mountaineers would like to invest in his future the same way they are focusing on Steve Valle and Claudio Regala.

That is the reason why they appear to be not as competitive compared to previous seasons but they are looking at it long-term than a short-term haul.

On his part, Justin thought Inaki was the missing piece for his team "I've waited a long time to find someone like him, I wouldn't let this one slip past me."

GM Nicolo Maro, a staunch supporter of Filipino players with an All-Filipino lineup, tried to persuade him to 'let Inaki stay in his country' to no avail - J was equally determined to get him on his team.

As he decided to end the bidding war, Maro - the ever-diplomatic manager, congratulated J as the winning bidder. "I hope you can make him the best player not just on your team but for him to be part of the future of our National Team."

Such strong words, nationalism for the Mountaineers manager that he looked at the bright side on losing the bid "at least I was able to increase his value to be acquired by a foreign team."

Although a bit disappointed, clearly passionate on losing a bid that the organization made a press release, he didn't feel that bad and is still optimistic at the course of their team "when you're down, there's no way but to go up."

These kind of thoughts endear the Mountaineers GM not just among their players who appreciate the 'loyalty' but as well to his peers.

Crack the head: Cresta Verde Mountaineers pounds Bugo HeadCrackers 120-91


Bugo Basketball Gym, Philippines -- Weary from their previous outings, the Cresta Verde Mountaineers took advantage as their bruisers force the action inside as they pounded Bugo HeadCrackers 120-91.

Right at the start, Renald Geonanga scored 15 out of 37 points in the first quarter for the Mountaineers. They weren't through in the second quarter with a +7 advantage leading 63-43 to end the half.

Once again in the third, the onslaught continued as the Mountaineers scored 28 points compared to Crackers 12.

"Our opponent is undermanned but we'll take this as a win," GM Nicolo Maro said. "I am very pleased with Renald and Tamban's performance."

Renald led the Mountaineers with a career high 37 points with 15 rebounds in 34 minutes. "Finally got the respect I deserve?" Renald said. "the previous three outings the magic number is 5 (referring to his foul-troubled games)."

Jimeno Tamban had his first double-double of the season notching 18 points and 16 boards. It was very interesting as he was aggressive and even making perfect 10 at the stripe. "I just focused and took advantage of their 'sweet spot', JT said.

Jackson Mansfield led HeadCrackers with 18 points. However, bigman Emilio Calado was off-mark going 2-13 from the field scoring 5 points but with 16 boards.

"We're tired, we need rest, we'll bounce back," Jackson said.

The Mountaineers just missed three free throws making 31 (out of 34) while HeadCrackers just went to the line 14 times - a huge disparity. Defensively, all categories were dominated by the Mountaineers having twice what the Crackers got.

Surprisingly quiet was Fillmore Sabangan who was just happy scoring 12 points but getting the "W".

Player of the game: R. Geonanga - 37 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks.
X-factor: J. Tamban - 18 points and 16 rebounds.
LVP: E. Calado - 5 points in 2-13FGs with much expected from him.

New Oagas Society remains perfect, defeats Cresta Verde Mountaineers 112-99


Alconcel Sports Center, Philippines -- All eyes are glued in this matchup and the fans weren't disappointed. New Oagas Society looks the superior team on paper but the Cresta Verde Mountaineers were able to hold their ground in this televised game.

Society started strong scoring 29 points per quarter in the first half leading 58-44 against the Mountaineers. The Mountaineers tried to their best to match but they were still trailing 68-85 entering the fourth.

They made a rally in the fourth but ultimately succumbed to a loss as they couldn't make shots and Society made their free throws in a 112-99 score.

Carmelo Maciano led Society with 30 points. Allan Genzola and Bobby Montealto had 23 points apiece while Dexter Santos chipped in 22 points.

"We didn't walkthrough and earned this win," Tersol said. "man it's different going against your previous team but I'm happy with the situation I'm in."

Five players scored in double-figures for the Mountaineers led my Erben Maranon with 24 points. Jimeno Tamban - who is becoming a force - contributed 21 points, 9 rebounds and 3 blocks is 8-11 field goal shooting.

Teo Amante, in his first league start filled the stat sheet with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists while Renald Geonanga had a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Society had the upper hand but the Mountaineers were able to scout their opponent thoroughly. GM Nicolo said that 'losing against this team is expected but at least we were not blown out.'

Society is the only team with a perfect 5-0 record while the Mountaineers is currently in the 4th spot in Great 8.

The Mountaineers will face Kurizo Hoopers(2) in what will be an exciting matchup as well. They will also against ranked 384 Vans Philippines in the National Tournament on Thursday.

Player of the game: Carmelo Maciano, 30 points.
X-factor: Allan Genzola - 23 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals.

Growing pains: Kurizo Hoopers ekes win, defeats Cresta Verde Mountaineers 101-95

Vulcan Arena, Fairview -- It's one of those games that the Cresta Verde Mountaineers prepared, they're in for a fight, but just came short. This is part of their growing pains having a young core.

Their GM, Nicolo Maro, wasn't able to witness the first half but was clearly satisfied when he arrived to start the 4th. Kurizo Hoopers were leading 72-66 and they were within striking distance.

The arrival of their GM put a jolt on the team as they even lead several times in the crucial fourth but timely shots in the last two minutes of the game by Hoopers - as they missed - dealt them their fourth loss.

Renald Geonanga had a game-high 36 points with 17 rebounds but it wasn't enough to carry the Mountaineers. "No expectations, I signed up for this and will carry this team until we arrive" Renald said.

Fillmore Sabangan and Marion Pacete played the entire game notching 27 and 17 points respectively.

Goran Ilicic led the Hoopers with 24 points while Toufic Benhoussa scored 21. Two others scored in double-figures.

The Mountaineers outrebounded their opponent by nine and have more shots including three points made but they fell 95-101 against Kurizo Hoopers. They will now face division IV Vans Philippines in the National Tournament.

Player of the game: Goran Ilicic - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists.
X-factor: Frederick Rosales - 14 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists and 3 steals.
LVP: Claudio Regala - 7 points and 6 rebounds in 1-10 field goal.

Cresta Verde Mountaineers advances in the National Tournament

Vans Basket Arena, Philippines -- Division IV Vans Philippines gave their all - almost advancing - but Cresta Verde Mountaineers experience prevailed in a 136-133 high-scoring thriller.

Both teams were on fire and Vans even led 33-31 to end the first. In the second quarter, Mountaineers put some 'D' scoring 35 points while 'holding' Vans to a 25-point output as they led 66-56 in the first half.

In the third quarter, they exchanged baskets with the Mountaineers still leading 101-92 hitting the century mark just in the third.

Fast-forward to the one-minute mark in the fourth, the Mountaineers were leading comfortably 129-122 until some wild sequence in the final minute of the game.

With 59 seconds, Aristides Almeida scored a three-point shot pulling with four, 129-125. Gavienne Hamoy was fouled on their next possession making two free throws to keep them at bay 131-125.

Fulvio Vellutini then made a two-point shot with 45 seconds, 131-127. Hamoy was again fouled hitting 1 out of 2 to make it 132-127.

This time, Robert Bertoldi made a three to inch within two, 132-130 with 36 seconds left. Vans opted to play defense as they have 12 seconds and Santos Verano attempted a jump shot and missed; however, they forgot to box him out and grab his own miss and immediately put up a shot and scored -- the Mountaineers leading 134-130.

Vans Philippines called a timeout and made a great play hitting a three in just six seconds to inch closer 134-133. They fouled rookie Hamoy who made 1/2 free throws again with the Mountaineers leading 135-133.

Vans called a 30-second timeout and set Bertoldi for a three but Hamoy made up for his two missed free throws by making a crucial block and Verano grabbing the ball.

But still, in the ensuing possession, Hamoy got fouled and made 1/2. Giving a 'ray of hope' for Vans as they have one more shot with the Mountaineers leading 136-133. With six seconds to maneuver, they setup Bertoldi again for the game-tying three with Hamoy in his face but the shot missed - Mountaineers win!

That was the type of game Hamoy experienced in his first start while playing all-48 minutes logging 17 points. He was very efficient as he calmly sinked 9-12 free throws except his last six attempts where he alternated makes and misses.

"Call it rookie jitters but he was poised all throughout" GM Nicolo Maro said.

Santos Verano was definitely the best player on the floor scoring 34 points while grabbing 18 rebounds in 16-22 field goal shooting in 38 minutes.

"Verano is very solid, if we could turn back the time, we should have developed him" Nicolo Maro in his assessment.

The Mountaineers got some very impressive plays as Melanie Gabo notched a double-double with 19 points and 17 rebounds while Abelardo Lambatan had 18 points and 11 assists in their starts. "I'm very impressed," was all their GM could say.

Thaddeus Villacin provided the muscles with 16 points and 13 rebounds while Fillmore Sabangan scored 20 points in 20 minutes coming off the bench.

Vellutini led Vans with a game-high 39 points while Bertoldi poured in 31. Wolframm Spinnler chipped in 26 points making 6 of 11 from the arc while Almeida had a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds.

"Their team is tired, they did their best, but end of the road for them" Maro said.

Vans was able to keep it close by knocking 17 of 37 three point attempts as the Mountaineers pounded the ball inside attempting just five. The Mountaineers however crashed the boards with a +27 advantage and having +12 assists than Vans.

After a challenging week, the Mountaineers will have a rest day while preparing for their coming games.

Player of the game: S. Verano - 34 points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists & 4 steals.
X-factor: A. Lambatan - 18 points, 11 assists and 5 rebounds.

Cresta Mountaineers scored 38 points in the third, defeats Manila All-Stars 120-91

Vulcan Arena, Quezon City -- Surely, the Cresta Verde Mountaineers is a scrappy bunch. The Mountaineers got a relatively easy win against Manila All-Stars defeating them 120-91.

Coming from a business meeting, GM Nicolo Maro rushed to the arena and was surprised to see them leading 93-58 entering the fourth. It was even more impressive as they held the All-Stars to 14 points in that third while scoring 38 points - this came after scoring 100 points in three quarters in their previous outing in the National Tournament.

"All I can say is we scrap to win," GM Nicolo Maro said. "we outwork our opponents, just hustle."

Renald Geonanga is on a tear as he continues to lead the Mountaineers with 30 points and 18 rebounds shooting 13-17 from the field in 33 minutes. He looks impressive and some fans are not just thinking of an all-star berth but an MVP-type season.

Teodosio Amante scored 24 points in 11-16 shooting in 20 minutes off the bench to provide instant spark while Fillmore Sabangan had 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in 20 minutes of play as well.

Basically Marion Pacete paced the Mountaineers with 8 points and 9 assists as they have an advantage in rebounding (+19), and assists (+8).

Charlie Contreras led All-Stars with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists but they look sluggish and looks like they didn't want it more than the Mountaineers.

The Mountaineers starters were able to rest in the win and they are optimistic in their chances against their next opponent, USA Basketball. Of course, they wouldn't have a letdown in their cup game against a Division III team in Sierra Madre Tsunami.

Player of the game: Renald Geonanga - 30 points and 18 rebounds.
X-factor: Teodosio Amante - 24 points and 5 assists in 20 minutes.
LVP: Denzil de la Torre - 5 points, shooting 2-10 from the field in 38 minutes with 6 fouls.

3-0 Cresta Verde Mountaineers sweeps week defeats USA Basketball and Tsunami
Vulcan Arena, Fairview -- It was a great week so to speak for the Mountaineers as it has been a long-time - as far as they're concerned - to win two games in a row plus the National Tournament.

In their second league game, they defeated USA Basketball 119-109 in a high-scoring affair. Both teams went on a tear as they scored 33 and 37 points respectively in the first but the Mountaineers scored more in the next three quarters than Basketball.

Fillmore Sabangan led the Mountaineers with 37 points while Teodosio Amante scored 22 points in 12 minutes. Marion Pacete had 18 while Renald Geonanga scored 17 points. Erben Maranon had a double-double with 11 points and 12 boards.

Eduardo Moreno led Basketball with 28 points followed by Itzik Schum with 25. Arsenito Gerial almost had a triple-double with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Tin Shih Fu had a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds.

Both teams were 'scorching' hot as both teams are evenly-matched and the difference was just a couple of buckets between the two.


In the national tournament, they went up against division III Sierra Madre Tsunami and made waves as they defeated them 113-62.

Six players scored in double figures led by Erben Maranon with 19 points in 9/13 field goal shooting in 22 minutes. Claudio Regala scored 18 points in 18 minutes off the bench in an almost-perfect 8/9 shooting.

Thaddeus Villacin, in his last game for the Mountaineers, had a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds while Jimeno Tamban scored 15. Alberto Lambatan and Melanie Gabo scored 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Tatu Savonheimo led Tsunami with 24 points while Philip Stautz contributed 17. Serapio Militante had a double-double with 10 points and 18 rebounds.

It was rather a 'bliss' moment for the Mountaineers as the management is preoccupied with things and the fact they 'sweep' the week.

Unchartered territory

The Batangas Five made history last night by reaching Round 6 of the National Cup for the first time since forming the francise. team owner walangutak on a post game interview said "i am happy and please of the teams improvement year after year after year, this is only our 6th season as a francise making us a pretty young francise and for a young franchine such as ours, it is a big accomplishment to reach the round 6 of a very prestigious tournament like the national cup"

Batangas five reach round 6 by beating Bloodseeker of league 3.15 98 - 68 last night, Batangas was never treatened by bloodseekers leading from opening buzzer to the end, showing suffocating defense from the get go limiting the other team total of 9 points in the first 12 minutes of the action, 28 points after 2 quarters of play.

it was a balanace attack for Batangas five with five of batangas squad scoring in double digits while diva and wheeler contributing 9 and 8 points respectively,Bloodseeker on the other hand had to rely solely from thier star Fabales who had to play extended minutes, playing 43 minutes because of the way his other team mates are playing scoring 22 pts grabbing 22 rebounds 6 coming from offensive glass...

Round 6 will be played in Batangas facing a very though and talented BIR Makati team of PPL

Last edited by walangutak at 1/30/2014 7:39:07 PM

January 25 to January 30 recap: Cresta Verde Mountaineers 2-1


Vulcan Arena, Fairview -- The Cresta Verde Mountaineers went 2-1 losing against Queen's Coast Silv3r and defeating Petron Chemicals and division IV North Camp in the National Tournament.

at Queen's Coast Silv3r
It was a tight ball game all throughout as the Mountaineers were able to defend their matchup thoroughly but with a home-court advantage, and arguably better players, the Silv3r answered the Mountaineers each quarter to win 99-88.

Five players were in double-figures for the Silv3r led by Daryl Erum's team high 28 points. Graciano Recamara had a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds, Balthasar Koenderink with 21 points and 14 assists while John Opina had 10 points and 16 rebounds. Marius Ozelski scored 12 points for a balanced attack.

Teodosio Amanted led the Mountaineers with a game high 30 points and 12 rebounds while Renald Geonanga had 19 points and 14 rebounds but it wasn't enough as the rest of the team went cold throughout. Fillmore Sabangan chipped in 10 points.

versus Petron Chemicals
Fresh from the close defeat in their last league game, they went offensive against the Chemicals defeating them 110-77.

Renald Geonanga led the Mountaineers with 34 points and 17 rebounds in 15-17 field goal shooting.

The Chemicals were led by He Mingxian and Ntinos Mpoukovalas scoring 25 points each but it wasn't enough to stop the onslaught of a established star in Renald..

versus North Camp
With 33 assists compared to North Camp's 7, the Cresta Verde Mountaineers breezed past Camp 107-71.

This time, Santos Verano led the Mountaineers with 31 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists proving how valuable he is for the team. Erben Maranon had a double-double with 10 points and 11 boards.

Neil Hobson led Camp with 29 points and Hermes Capule grabbed 23 rebounds with 13 points in the defeat.