Power Rankings: July 10-14

By Paolo Mariano Posted Jul 17th 2013

For the first time since we introduced our own version of the Power Rankings two seasons ago, a player has kept the top spot for three weeks in a row. It’s an early testament to how his game has evolved this year, leading his team atop the ladder. A previously unknown guard also made his debut on the list, while three veterans stamped their case with dominating performances last week. Honorable mention goes to a bunch of players: Karim Abdul, Aljon Mariano, Juami Tiongson, JP Erram, Raul Soyud, Roider Cabrera, and Arnold Van Opstal.
 
1. Terrence Romeo – FEU
Win vs. La Salle (OT): 25 Pts, 4 Rebs, 5 Asts
Last week: No. 1
 
There’s no doubt that if there’s such thing as an early MVP award, Romeo would take home the plum. Three weeks into the season, no player has been able to shackle him. He jumpstarted FEU’s gutsy comeback last Saturday with back-to-back three-pointers in the last two minutes. Although he still forces shots, he’s made up for it somehow by helping out on the boards and finding open teammates. It’s hard to imagine where the Tamaraws would be right now without this guy.  
 
2. Emmanuel Mbe – NU
Wins vs. UST and UP: 16.0 PPG, 64.7% FGs, 11.5 RPG
Newcomer

The graduating Cameroonian has been a rock in the paint all season long. So far, he’s having the best season of his UAAP career, even better than in 2010 when he was first runner-up in the MVP race. He badly outplayed Karim Abdul in their anticipated match-up and capitalized on UP’s weaker frontline. His resurgence couldn’t come at a better time for NU with back-up Alfred Aroga deemed ineligible to play. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he returns to the Mythical Five this year.

3. Ray Parks – NU
Wins vs. UST and UP: 19.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 6.0 APG
Returnee

The two-time reigning MVP makes a comeback on the list with another impressive all-around performance in the Bulldogs’ back-to-back wins. He scored nine points in the third quarter against UST, which was pivotal in the W. Although he only had two field goals against UP, he still managed to get his points by attacking the rim and going to the line, where he finished 14-of-16—the most made and attempted by any player this season. For Parks, if there’s a will, there’s a way.     

4. Ryan Buenafe – Ateneo
Wins vs. Adamson: 11 Pts, 12 Rebs, 9 Asts
Newcomer
 
It’s safe to say that, finally, Buenafe is back! After a lackluster return last season, the former Rookie of the Year has regained his groove in his final tour of duty. He’s showcased his overall skills and cerebral approach in Ateneo’s first four games. But none of them was more evident in the Blue Eagles’ win over Adamson as he posted a near triple-double. We all know what he can do, it’s just a matter of having the mentality for him. So far, so good for the bulky and talented forward.

5. Ed Daquioag – UST
Loss vs. NU and win vs. UE: 16.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 4.0 APG
Newcomer

While many thought that the loss of Jeric Fortuna would be too huge of a problem for UST, Daquioag thought otherwise. He’s clearly one of, if not the most improved players this season. He was the most consistent Growling Tiger in their pair of games last week, norming all-around numbers, including career-highs 19 points and six assists in their win over UE. He needs to take care of the ball more though as he also had seven miscues in that game. But overall, he’s been terrific.