Miller, Baguio suit up vs former teams

MANILA, Philippines - Barangay Ginebra and Alaska Milk, two teams which figured in a blockbuster trade involving All-Star players Willie Miller and Cyrus Baguio the other day, meet in an interesting showdown today at resumption of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

San Miguel Beer, the tournament leader which won its last four games before the All-Star break, takes on Rain or Shine in the 5 p.m. curtain raiser.

Miller makes his first appearance as a Ginebra King while Baguio debuts as an Alaska Ace two days after both teams agreed to swap with their respective star players.

The 7:30 p.m. tiff between Ginebra and Alaska will also be marked by Mildon Ambres’ first game as the Kings’ new import, taking over from Awvee Storey.

“It’s going to be a game of adjustments for both players and for both teams,” said Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.

“Miller’s practised with us today (yesterday). I don’t know about his usual minutes,” said Uichico on whether Miller would play extensive minutes in his first game with the Kings.

“They may not be used so much because they don’t know yet the system. But it will be fun to see them play,” said Alaska team manager Joaqui Trillo.

Dealt to another team for the third time in his pro career, Miller said he’ll work hard to prove himself again.

“I understand (being traded) is part and parcel of pro life. I have to face the situation,” said Miller.

Baguio is looking to play longer minutes at Alaska. He’d been relegated as fourth man at wing spot at Ginebra on the return from injured list by Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand.

The Kings and the Aces are both out to improve their records in the middle of the standings with the former gunning for a fourth win in six games and the latter seeking a third win against two defeats.

Ginebra lost its most recent game to San Miguel while Alaska won its last two assignments versus Air21 and B-MEG Derby Ace.

Alaska coach Tim Cone, however, said they have to build momentum again coming back from the All-Star Week break.

San Miguel coach Siot Tanquingcen shared the same thoughts, saying they’ve lost the momentum of their four-game romp on a nearly two-week respite.