Power Rankings: Aug. 28-Sept. 1

By Paolo Mariano Posted Sep 3rd 2013

Last week’s contests were perfectly capped with a pair of thrilling finishes on Sunday. With the Final Four looming in the horizon and the team standings still an entangled web, the upcoming games will surely be a knockout. Four players made their return on the list, while the other guy slipped a few slots from the last time out. As much as we wanted to include Jeron Teng, his numbers weren’t just enough. Still, a big salute to him for knocking down the game-winner. Others who also almost made the cut include Kevin Ferrer, Juami Tiongson, Emmanuel Mbe, and Jansen Rios.   

1. Karim Abdul – UST

Wins vs. Adamson and FEU (2 OT): 21.5 PPG, 12.0 RPG, 3.0 BPG

Returnee 

UST head coach Pido Jarencio lamented his prized big man for his lackluster opening round. Well, the 6-foot-6 Cameroonian has surely responded with his dominant showing in the second half of the season. He was the primary reason for the Growling Tigers’ pair of wins last week, keeping them in the hunt for the Final Four. He outclassed Ingrid Sewa in their game versus Adamson and made the game-winning three-point play and game-saving block in their huge upset of FEU.

2. Aljon Mariano – UST

Wins vs. Adamson and FEU (2 OT): 17.5 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 6.5 APG

Returnee

With Jeric Teng still out, Mariano provided the much-needed consistent back-up to Abdul last week. He put up almost double-double numbers, displaying the versatile form he showcased throughout last season. The biggest surprise, however, is his 6.5 APG, spiked by a career-high eight dimes versus FEU. He also drained a crucial three-pointer in that game, which forced the first overtime. He has played terrific as of late and UST needs all the help in can get to return to the finals. 

3. Almond Vosotros – La Salle

Win vs. Ateneo: 19 Pts, 3 3FGs, 6 Rebs

Returnee

Yes, it was Jeron Teng who made the game-winner for the Green Archers in their win over Ateneo, but it was Vosotros, who delivered the punches in the crucial second half. He drained 16 of his 19 points after the break, including nine in the fourth quarter to keep La Salle in the game. His outside shots also stymied several runs of the Blue Eagles. The former San Sebastian Staglet may not be among the most explosive guards in the league, but he is sure is one of the most dependable. 

4. Ray Parks – NU

Win vs. UE: 18 Pts, 10 Rebs, 2 Blks

Returnee

Mr. MVP made sure that an undermanned UE squad won’t snap NU’s historic winning streak with another across-the-board performance. He kept the Bulldogs in check all game, especially when things got testy in the final period. The 20-year-old Parks has really displayed maturity this season, something his team has been lacking in recent years. He loves making his teammates better and taking charge when needed, just like what he did against the Red Warriors last Saturday.   

5. Jason Perkins – La Salle

Win vs. Ateneo: 13 Pts, 15 Rebs, 2 Blks

Last week: No. 3

The burly forward from Minnesota once again provided the muscle and stability in the paint for La Salle. He recorded his third straight double-double and held Ateneo’s Ryan Buenafe to a miserable 4-of-17 shooting from the field. His athleticism despite his wide frame is reminiscent of former Green Archer star, Noli Locsin. He struggled to find his role in the team in their first few games, but Perkins has slowly eased into his role as an enforcer and post option for the boys from Taft.