Yap earns honors for Dubai exploits

MANILA, Philippines - James Yap sure knows when to strike.

The two-time MVP turned in another superb performance in the PBA’s out-of-the-country sortie in Dubai last week, scoring 32 points and hauling down seven rounds to power B-MEG to a 111-105 victory over the previously unbeaten and grand slam-seeking Talk n Text at the Al Shabab Sports Club in Dubai, UAE last Thursday.

The victory, the Llamados’ second straight and third in five games, did not only boost their bid in the short tournament but also their morale as they head to the last three games of their elims assignments.

It also netted Yap another Accel-PBA Press Corps’ Player of the Week award.

New import Darnell Hinson debuted with 26 points and 10 rebounds while Marc Pingris and Joe Devance also turned in double-doubles to underscore the team’s balanced offensive sock.

But it was still Yap’s array of made shots (12-for-21 from the field, including four triples) that was key to the B-MEG’s victory.

“James is getting his old form back after his injuries,” said Llamados coach Jorge Gallent of his star player, who suffered a calf muscle strain in the Commissioner’s Cup and a sprained ankle just before the current Governors Cup started.

The output marked the third straight game Yap has scored at least 26 points and the 23rd time in his PBA career that he produced 30 or more points in a game.

“He’s been working hard off and on the court, so I hope he sustains the things he’s been doing our past games,” said Gallent.

The injuries really seem to be things of the past while the extra work has been paying off big dividends, making one almost certain more big games are sure to come from Yap.