PBL scribes pick Simon, Alvarez

The recently-concluded Sunkist-PBL Unity Cup finals produced a lot of heroes but none of them made a bigger impact than the formidable duo of June Peter Simon and Rich Alvarez.

Simon was the spark that lit the fire in Hapee Toothpaste’s classic 64-62 Game 5 victory over Viva Mineral Water which won the title for the first time in seven years.

Alvarez, a member of the Ateneo squad that won a title in the PBL and in the UAAP last year, was the defensive presence the Lamoiyan franchise needed in taming the Water Force.

These qualities were considered as the two cagers were named co-Most Valuable Players in the series by the sports scribes covering the beat.

After opting to play second fiddle to his teammates in the first four games, Simon, a 23-year-old North Cotabato native who grew up in Davao City, took charge when it mattered the most, erupting for 22 points including four baskets in the homestretch.

"Sabi ko sa sarili ko kapag walang mag-take charge sa Game 5 ako na aako ng responsibilidad kahit magalit si coach," said Simon, referring to Hapee mentor Junel Baculi.

"Nung una akala ko mauubusan ako ng hininga buti na lang meron pa pala akong natitira sa huling dalawang minuto," added the former Davao Eagle.

While Simon provided the ammo, the high-leaping Alvarez, who is expected to be drafted in the PBA next season, took care of things in defense.

In his team’s three wins, Alvarez scored 16 points, grabbed a total of 25 rebounds and blocked five shots, not to mention his intimidating presence in the shaded area against the likes of Viva’s Mark Isip, Jason Misolas and Gerard Jones.

The two, along with the rest of the Teeth Sparklers, will be joined by Water Force mentor Coy Banal, who was adjudged coach of the conference, in a brief and simple awarding rites at the PSA Forum on Tuesday at the Manila Pavilion.