Power Rankings: Sept. 4-8

By Paolo Mariano Posted Sep 10th 2013

Let’s take a break from all the off-the-court controversies and focus on the players that made headlines this past week. As expected, with the Final Four race as tight as a sealed jar, the league’s marquee guys stepped up. Three former Rookie of the Year awardees made it on the list, while a pair of versatile and U.S.-honed studs remained in the Fab Five. With only a couple of games remaining, expect most of these names to return next week. Honorable mentions go out to Aljon Mariano, Karim Abdul, Roi Sumang, Mark Belo, and Chris Newsome. 

1. Jeron Teng – La Salle

Wins vs. UE (OT) and NU: 19.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.5 APG

Newcomer

It’s a little surprising that this is only the first time Teng made it on the list this season. But as they say, better late than never, plus he’s picked the perfect time to deliver. He saved the Green Archers in their back-to-back Ws last week to extend their winning streak to six. He scored nine of his 17 points in overtime against UE then put up eight of their last 10 points in a squeaker of a victory versus NU. He may struggle in stretches but expect him to make the shots that matter the most. 

2. Jason Perkins – La Salle

Wins vs. UE (OT) and NU: 20.0 PPG, 72.7% FG, 9.5 RPG

Last week: No. 5

Where would La Salle be in the second round without Perkins? He really puts the “power” in power forward with his strength and grit under the basket. He’s been the Green Archers’ most consistent player in their winning streak. He’s the most efficient as well as proven by his 72.7% FG clip, including long range attempts, last week. The burly banger out of Minnesota can also play defense with his dexterity and toughness. Clearly, he’ll be a force to reckon with in years to come.

3. Terrence Romeo – FEU

Win vs. Adamson: 32 Pts, 8 Rebs, 4 Asts

Returnee

It’s only fitting that Romeo would be the one to set this season’s scoring record with his 32-point explosion against Adamson. He shot relatively well from the field, especially from two-point range with an impressive 10-of-13. Like he has done all year long, he also crashed the boards and dished to his teammates. Love him or hate him, he’s the primary reason why FEU is back in the Final Four after last year’s hiatus. Now, he’ll be more motivated to make all his naysayers bite their lips. 

4. Kiefer Ravena – Ateneo

Win vs. UE: 22 Pts, 4 Rebs, 2 Asts

Returnee

For the first time this season, “The Phenom” cracked the 20-point mark. Quite shocking for a player of his caliber. But then again, Ravena has never been just about scoring. Whatever it takes for his team to win, he’ll gladly do. But when he needs to score, he’ll find a way to. Just like in their crucial game against UE, wherein he pumped in 14 of his team-high 22 markers in the second half. With the season winding down to a nail-biting finish, he’ll definitely deliver his usual heroics.    

5. Ray Parks – NU

Win vs. UP and loss vs. La Salle: 24.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.5 APG

Last week: No. 4

Another guy who’ll never back down from a huge challenge is Parks. He has carried NU for the past three seasons and he now has his best chance to finally capture a title. Even though he has been more of a playmaker this year, he showed versus UP that he can still put up points if he wants to with a season-high 30 markers. The Bulldogs may have lost to La Salle but the two-time reigning MVP once again showed that his all-around game is head and shoulders above the competition.