Norwood, Omolon step up to boost teams’ playoff bids

MANILA, Philippines - For providing the necessary numbers when needed, Rain or Shine's Gabe Norwood and Sta. Lucia Realty's Nelbert "Bitoy" Omolon were chosen as Motolite/Accel-PBA Press Corps' Co-Players of the Week for the period May 25 to 31. “He brings a lot to the team, whether it's on defense or offense," said Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia regarding Norwood, who took the opportunity to shine in the absence of injured Sol Mercado. “He has been aggressive on offense lately and that really helped us," Garcia added about his prized ward. Norwood's averages of 10.5 points, 11.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.0 blocked shot in RoS' last two games helped the team tremendously to notch two crucial straight wins, first against Barako Bull, 96-88, in the wildcard and then against Purefoods, 96-87, in the opener of their best-of-three quarterfinals series last Sunday. That last victory helped the Elasto Painters move closer to their first-ever semifinal appearance since joining in the league in 2006. Another victory this Wednesday could make this dream a reality. Omolon also shone with averages of 10.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.5 blocked, helping the Realtors eliminate Coca-Cola, 94-88, in the wildcard and in downing Burger King, 93-84, at the start of their own quarterfinal match. Like Norwood, Omolon is taking the opportunity to make his presence felt in the absence of reigning MVP Kelly Williams, who has been sidelined by a rare blood disorder. “Even though his playing time was reduced in the eliminations because of our import, he just continued to work hard without complaints," said Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez. “Now that he's got the playing time, he is really using that to the hilt. “I'm really happy and proud that I have a player like Bitoy, a true hard worker and team player," added Fernandez, who is mentoring the team to its best-ever Fiesta finish which is pegged at sixth spot. - Perry Legaspi, GMANews.TV