Oracle’s Timberlake worthy of finals MVP win

MANILA, Philippines – While Mark Barroca put in his regular numbers, it was Chris Timberlake’s defense made the big difference in Oracle Residences’ 82-69 demolition of Pharex in Game 5 of the 2009 PBL PG Flex Unity Cup finals last Thursday at the Ynares Sports Center in Pasig City. Timberlake, who played for Toyota Otis in the season-opening PG Flex Linoleum Cup, was taken by Oracle team manager Erick Arejola in the dispersal draft. He provided almost everything for the Titans earning him the Finals most valuable player trophy. “He (Timberlake) deserved it," said Arejola after Oracle won for the Mikee Romero-owned franchise a league record seventh straight crown. “He’s the glue of the team, he’s consummate leader on the court." The 5-foot-9 Barroca, Oracle’s do-it-all guard, scored 21 points on top of his six rebounds, three assists and three steals in the Titans’ title-clinching victory. Barroca was named as the Pivotal Player of the best-of-five title series. Timberlake, however, only scored eight points but made it difficult for Pharex’s high-scoring point guard Chris Ross to get good looks at the basket. Ross managed to score 10 points behind Timberlake’s tight defense. Romero even likened Timberlake to the great Hector Calma because of his moves. “Just like Calma, he’s cool. But he can drive and shoot from afar." Even PBL commissioner Chino Trinidad lauded Timberlake’s characteristics, his discipline on the floor and will to win. “He comes out each game ready to play his 100 percent performance. He’s a true role model. I just hope we can produce another player like him." Timberlake averaged 11.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.5 blocks in the five-game series. He had his breakout performance in Oracle’s 88-70 Game 3 triumph where he scored 19 points behind an 8-of-14 field goal shooting. – GMANews.TV