HoopWatch

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) formally began its 2006-2007 season earlier today at the Araneta Coliseum. And in the day’s lone game, crowd-favorite Ginebra Kings walloped newcomer Welcoat Dragons, 102-69.

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Comebacking star Rudy Hatfield contributed 21 points and 14 rebounds, on 10-of-15 shooting. Hatfield left the country three seasons ago due to citizenship problems. After a talk with best pal and current teammate Eric Menk, he has been enticed to strut his stuff once again in Asia’s first play-for-pay league. And Hatfield wasted no time in showcasing back the abilities that made him a PBA Star.

The Dragons never came close in the game. It was a sort of repeat of their loss against the same Kings during the pre-season tournament where they were also humbled 73-99. Welcoat, the league’s newest team, failed to snag a marquee player. They had to utilize rookies Junjun Cabatu, Jay-R Reyes and Jay Sagad, and role players in Jojo Tangkay, Rob Wainwright, Denver Lopez and Nino Gelig.

In contrast, the Ginebra Kings are the title favorites for this season boasting of the biggest line-up in the league after acquiring key big men in Hatfield, Rafi Reavis and Billy Mamaril in a trade with the Coca-Cola Tigers. They join key Gin Kings Andy Seigle, Rommel Adducul, former MVP Eric “Major Pain” Menk, Mike Holper, Mark “The Spark” Caguioa, Jayjay Helterbrand, Rodney Santos and one-time MVP Johnny “The Flying A” Abarrientos. (pics courtesy of pba.com.ph)