Tigers show fangs with Taulava in top form

Leading by example is one trait of a great player and among those who best typify this is Coca-Cola's Asi Taulava. The veteran center took it upon himself to spearhead the Tigers' drive to an immediate goal, earning for himself the KFC/Accel-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week honors for the period Jan. 11 to 17. It was the second such citation during the Philippine Cup for the 2003 season MVP, with the first coming during the Dec. 14-20 week.

This time, the citation carries with it special meaning since Coke is now safely through to the wildcard phase following its two wins in the week that was and some outside help. As is his wont, Taulava shares the honor with his entire team, including coach Bo Perasol and team manager JB Baylon. “I appreciate the recognition, but I have to give the credit to coach Bo and the team for bringing the best out of me. Also, to Boss JB for always being there for the team and his all-out support," said the 6-foot-9 Fil-Tongan. Perasol said the credit is all Taulava's and not only because of the team captain's impressive averages of 20.5 points, 14.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists in the Tigers' wins over San Miguel Beer and Rain or Shine. “He has been a steady presence for us on both ends of the floor. He inspires intensity and enthusiasm in practice and during the game," said the tactician. With those victories, Coke improved its win-loss slate to 5-12. With Sta. Lucia Realty's 108-86 win over Barako Bull and Barangay Ginebra's 122-104 triumph over Burger King last Sunday, the Tigers are now tied with the Whopper for seventh place, which carries with it a sure spot in the wildcard even if they lose their last eliminations match to Barako Bull on Wednesday. Everyone knows Taulava will continue to show the way for Coke. “He is mature and responsible enough to know his accountability to the team as a whole. He takes it as his mission to spearhead our mission to be the best that we can be," said Perasol. - GMANews.TV