Wednesday, November 28, 2007 Taulava to don Coke jersey today
ASI Taulava, the most feared 6-foot-9 slotman will start wearing the Coca-Cola jersey when the Tigers seek their second win against the Alaska Aces today in the 2007 Smart-PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.
The Tigers, having won only against the Welcoat Dragons, 85-76, on Oct. 19, meet the Aces at 4:50 p.m., while Barangay Ginebra and Welcoat, which are tied at 3-6 apiece, part ways in the second game at 7:20 p.m.
Taulava, a member of the RP national squad that saw action in the 2007 Fiba-Asia championship last August in Tokushima, Japan and the 2002 Busan Asian Games, was traded to the Tigers Monday night in exchange for the 6-foot-four Ali Peek plus Coca-Cola’s first round draft next year.
Despite the presence of Taulava, who has been with the Phone Pals for almost eight years, the Aces are heavily favored over the Tigers, whom they have defeated, 98-94, on Oct. 26.
“Our records now mean we can play against bigger boys, which also showed that we can really compete for the championship,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone.
With its 1-7 win-loss slate, the Tigers are facing a tough task of avoiding virtual elimination at the end of the double-round qualifying.
Joining Taulava in the Tigers lineup is also new recruit Aries Dimaunahan, who was traded from the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants in exchange for a player that the pacesetter Giants have yet to decide.
In the other game, the Welcoat Dragons are aiming for a repeat of their 82-64 win over the Kings on Oct. 27 in Roxas City. (FCC)
