Norwood earns starting spot in PBA All-Star Game

Gabe Norwood will be playing in the 21st edition of the PBA All-Star game, which is slated from April 23 to 25 in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Rain or Shine’s high-leaping guard has been tapped to take over Kerby Raymundo’s starting spot in the North Squad since the Derby Ace center is still recuperating from an injury. Raymundo is currently undergoing rehabilitation on his right knee and has already missed the Llamados’ two games in the Fiesta Conference. The 6-foot-6 center from Letran College has earned a starting spot for the North team along with Mark Pingris, JC Intal, Jayjay Helterbrand and Paul Artadi. Also in the North squad are rookie Rico Maierhofer, Willie Miller, Ranidel de Ocampo, Sol Mercado, Ryan Reyes, Mac Cardona and Arwind Santos. James Yap, who received the most number of fan votes with 47,156, will lead the South squad that also has Kelly Williams, Erik Menk, Asi Taulava and Cyrus Baguio as starters. The South team defeated the North in their last meeting two years ago. Alaska coach Tim Cone will call the shots for the South that also included Jimmy Alapag, Roger Yap, Reynel Hugnatan, Dondon Hontiveros, Sonny Thoss, Joe Devance and Ronald Tubid. The All-Star Weekend also features the Rookies vs Sophomore Game, Slam Dunk contest, obstacle course event and the three-point shootout. The Rookies are composed of Marcy Arellano, Jervy Cruz, Ogie Menor, Chris Ross, Cris Timberlake, Joshua Urbiztondo, Ronnie Matias and Mike Burtscher. Beau Belga, Mark Borboran, Jason Castro, Jeff Chan, Bonbon Custodio, Jared Dillinger, Larry Rodriguez and Mark Yee complete the Sophomores’ roster. – GMANews.TV