Realtors pin hopes on new import

Despite a 3-7 record at the All-Star break, Sta. Lucia Realty coach Boyet Fernandez said yesterday the goal of clinching an outright quarterfinals slot in the PBA Fiesta Conference is achievable and new import Jamaal Williams will play a major role in the campaign.

Williams, 24, flew in from Seattle the other night. He takes over from original import Rock Winston who left yesterday with a recurring back problem that flared up two games ago.

"No question about Rock’s talent and attitude," said Fernandez. "He suffered a car accident a year ago and he’s still feeling pain in his back because of it. We put him in the injured list. We’re lucky to get Jamaal who gives us a post presence and a big man in the middle. He’ll help us in rebounding and inside defense."

Williams was recommended by Los Angeles-based Filipino recruiter Roger Jimenez through agent Tod Ramassar who also represents Golden State guard Baron Davis.

"Jamaal plays like Elton Brand," said Jimenez. "He’s 6-5 but weighs 240 pounds with a 75-inch wingspan. He’s bigger than Winston. He’s just what the doctor ordered for Sta. Lucia."

Williams played two years for the University of New Mexico and two years for the University of Washington in the NCAA. As a senior in 2005-06, he averaged 13.8 points and 4.7 rebounds, shooting .496 from the field and .671 from the line. He shot 27 points in his farewell varsity game, a 98-92 overtime Washington loss to Connecticut in the Sweet 16.

"Jamaal is a great weapon offensively and he demands the attention of the opposing team’s defense," said Washington coach Lorenzo Romar. "He has a real knack of putting the ball in the basket. He plays probably three inches taller than his actual size (and) has a nose for the ball, too."

Williams was among the final Golden State cuts in tryouts last year.

Fernandez said from watching Williams on tape, he’s a legitimate post player. "He can run the break and play four or five," he noted. "He’s what we need down low."

Fernandez said he’s optimistic of the Realtors’ chances in the second half of the double round eliminations.

"We’re not putting ourselves under pressure," said Fernandez. "This is a learning experience for all of us. Morale is high and we’re staying positive. We’ve got a long way to go and making it to the top five is a realistic goal. We’re determined to prove something – that we can work and win together as a team."

Fernandez said veterans Dennis Espino and Marlou Aquino are undergoing therapy for ailing knees but should be up to 80 percent when Sta. Lucia plays Air21 next Wednesday.

"Their conditioning is fine but the pain is still there," said Fernandez. "They’re doing rehab and reporting for practice up to Saturday. We take a break on Sunday then we’re back in the gym on Monday with Kelly (Williams) and Denok (Miranda) who’ll be gone for the All-Star Week."

Fernandez said Paolo Mendoza begged off from the All-Star 3-point shootout to attend to a family obligation and Williams will take his spot. Cesar Catli was also excused because of his graduation at FEU.

Fernandez said the trade that sent Alex Cabagnot, Ricky Calimag and Kenneth Duremdes to Coca-Cola for Miranda was initiated by the Tigers. "We didn’t want to let Alex go but we thought of our salary cap for the next draft where we’re looking at Ken Bono, Doug Kramer, Rob Reyes if he’s available or J. C. Intal."

Fernandez said he expects even more from Kelly Williams in the battle for a quarterfinals ticket.

"Kelly is playing so well and he still has a lot to show," he said. "We’re giving him all the support. You can now see the chemistry in our team. We recently reactivated Paeng (Santos) and Mark (Magsumbol) because they deserve the chance to play after sacrificing so long in the reserve list. We’re giving everyone a chance to show their worth."