Power Rankings: July 24-28

By Paolo Mariano Posted Jul 31st 2013

Only one name sat at the top spot of our weekly list the entire opening round. If you have no idea who he is, you need to get your brain checked. Other players tried to pry him away from the pedestal, but to no avail. It’s just impossible not to appreciate his individual greatness. We know we’re just gushing here, but we really need to give him the proper recognition. Anyway, obligatory honorable mentions go to Roi Sumang, Kevin Ferrer, Almond Vosotros, and Dennice Villamor.

1. Terrence Romeo – FEU

Win vs. Adamson: 26 Pts, 4 Rebs, 2 Asts

Last week: No. 1

Was there any doubt? Romeo put up the most exhilarating individual performance of the first round in their win over Adamson, which completed the team’s seven-game sweep. He scored a season-high 26 points, including the Tamaraws’ last eight markers. His cold-blooded three-pointer from the top of the key off back-to-back crossovers with 26 seconds left was just plain evil. His confidence is at an all-time high and it’s really scary to think what he’ll do in the next round.

2. Ray Parks – NU

Win vs. La Salle: 20 Pts, 14 Rebs, 6 Asts

Returnee

Clearly, if there’s one player who can wrestle the MVP trophy away from Romeo, it’s Parks. In their big win over La Salle, the two-time reigning MVP showed he can do much more than the King Tamaraw. Aside from finishing with a double-double, he also added six assists and four steals, while helping hold Almond Vosotros and Jeron Teng to a combined 20 points on 8-of-24 shooting. He can singlehandedly dictate the outcome of a game if he’s not being passive on the floor.

3. Charles Mammie – UE

Wins vs. UP: 17 Pts, 22 Rebs, 2 Asts

Last week: No. 2

Another day, another monster game for Mammie. There’s really no stopping the rookie import from Sierra Leone when he’s deep in the paint. He’s too strong, too big, and too skilled. He simply outmuscled every single UP big man thrown at him. He’s finished with a double-double in five of the six outings he’s played, including three 20-rebound performances. Most didn’t think he would be this good, emerging as the best import after the first round. Keep working, big fella.   

4. Kiefer Ravena – Ateneo

Win vs. UST: 13 Pts, 8 Rebs, 2 Asts

Returnee

Now in his second appearance on the list, it’s safe to assume that “The Phenom” is back. He was just two boards shy off a double-double in their victory over UST. But more importantly, he delivered in the clutch to make up for his struggles from the line. In the final minute, he scored three points, grabbed two rebounds, and blocked a crucial shot from Ed Daquioag. Even though his explosiveness is still lacking, you know he’s reliable when the going gets tough.   

5. Aljon Mariano – UST

Win vs. UP and loss vs. Ateneo: 17.0 PPG, 10-of-10 FTs, 7.5 RPG

Newcomer

Speaking of comebacks, it’s also clear that Mariano has regained his bearings. After a so-so start to the season due to a sprained ankle, the versatile forward put up big numbers in their last two games. He showcased his enviable skill-set on a variety of shots and moves. He steadied UST in the final quarter against UP and kept the team afloat in the first half against Ateneo. He was also spotless from the charity stripe in those two outings, a rarity in today’s UAAP.