Power Rankings: Sept. 25-28

By Paolo Mariano Posted Oct 1st 2013

After 14 years, La Salle and UST are back for some swinging and boogieing in the Last Dance. Of course, they owe it to the guys who stepped up in last week’s Final Four trysts. Three players are back on the list, including the guy sitting at the top spot, proof that consistency is vital in the post-season. No let up and no surrender. It’s no surprise why their respective teams are the only ones remaining in the hunt for the elusive crown. Honorable mention nods go out to Aljon Mariano and Norbert Torres.

1. Kevin Ferrer – UST

Win vs. NU: 18 Pts, 3-7 3FGs, 5 Rebs

Last week: No. 1

For the second straight knockout game, Ferrer delivered the killer blows for UST. He scored seven of his 18 points in the fourth period, including a three-pointer that kicked off the finishing run for the Growling Tigers. He continued to hit well from long range and helped limit Ray Parks to a woeful 3-of-10 shooting afternoon. Again, he made his presence felt the entire game with his activity on both ends. His confidence is at its peak and it’s a huge plus for him heading to the finals.  

2. Jeric Teng – UST

Win vs. NU: 19 Pts, 5 Rebs, 3 Asts

Returnee 

After a mediocre game in their first victory against NU, the UST skipper bounced back big-time last Sunday. He top-scored for the Growling Tigers and repeatedly stymied the Bulldogs’ comeback attempts with his timely hits. He toyed with the defense of Robin Roño, especially in the post, where he showcased his strength and veteran smarts. He also played good defense and helped in crashing the boards. He was also 5-of-5 from the line in a game where FT shooting was a major factor.

3. Jeron Teng – La Salle

Win vs. FEU: 15 Pts, 10 Rebs, 6 Asts

Last week: No. 4

Moving up a spot from last week is the younger Teng. Once again, the former Rookie of the Year finished with an all-around showing. His imprints were all over the game as he tallied another double-double, while registering a new career high in assists for the second straight time. He also went 7-of-10 from the charity stripe, proving that he has really improved his stroke from the line. His recent multi-dimensional approach to the game has clearly made wonders for the Green Archers.

4. L.A. Revilla – La Salle

Win vs. FEU: 15 Pts, 8 Rebs, 2 Asts

Last week: No. 3

Exchanging seats with Teng on the list is La Salle’s veteran playmaker. The only remnant from the Green Archers squad that made it to the finals in 2008, Revilla again showed that he’s no stranger to crucial encounters. Buoyed by his remarkable output in their playoff game with FEU, the 5-foot-6 guard finished with another solid line of 15 points and eight rebounds, even grabbing more boards than Norbert Torres and Anthony Hargrove. That’s playing with guts and character.   

5. Carl Cruz – FEU

Loss vs. La Salle: 15 Pts, 63.6% FGs, 2 Rebs

Newcomer 

The graduating big man from FEU gets a consolation of sorts with his entry to the Fab Five. With Terrence Romeo and RR Garcia shackled by the La Salle defense, Cruz carried the scoring cudgels for the Tamaraws. Despite only playing 16 minutes due to foul disqualification, he logged a team-high 15 points, including two three-pointers. He even went 6-of-6 from the field in the first three quarters. It was a valiant effort for the exiting slotman, who has always been a hard worker.