Iguodala, Frye bring house down in NBA Madness

Andre Iguodala of the Philadelphia 76ers and Channing Frye of the New York Knicks treated basketball fans to a night of fun, music and games in Saturday night’s culmination of the 2006 NBA Madness at the Araneta Coliseum.

Iguodala’s team bested Frye’s squad, 80-76, in the featured contest where the high-leaping Sixer showcased the rim-rattling jams that nearly won him the slam dunk trophy in the recent NBA All-Star game.

Iguodala’s team played in Dallas Mavs’ uniform while Frye’s team donned the Miami Heat jersey.

For awhile, Iguodala appeared contented just playing around outside of the court that even saw him swat a three-point attempt by an opposing shooter, thus eliciting laughter from both benches.

It, however, didn’t amuse officials as Iguodala was slapped a technical foul.

Finally checking in with three minutes left in the match, Iguodala gave the fans what they came in for, starting his act with a thunderous slam that rocked the Big Dome.

Frye likewise showed samples of what he can do as he came out with a pair of dunks early in the second quarter that got the crowd on its feet.

Playing for Iguodala’s team were Olympic boxing silver medallist Mansueto "Onyok" Velasco, former PBA players Peter Martin and Eric Reyes and celebrities Gary V., Gary Estrada and James Blanco.

Frye’s squad included ex-pros Vince Hizon and Richard del Rosario and showbiz personalities Richard Gomez, Antonio Aquitana and Anjo Yllana.

The San Antonio Silver Spurs and the Atlanta Hawks’ mascot Harry the Hawk also treated the fans with musical numbers.

Some of the country’s top bands, including Sugar Free and Parokya ni Edgar, also provided entertainment to the fans.

Proceeds of the event will benefit local charitable institutions for children through the NBA’s own foundation NBA Cares.