Clash for solo lead Beermen test Jones vs Texters

MANILA, Philippines - Former Cleveland Cavalier Kevin Jones finally takes over from former New Jersey Net Josh Boone as San Miguel Beer tangles with Talk n Text in a duel for the solo lead in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today.

The Beermen and the Tropang Texters both go for win No. 3 in their 8 p.m. tiff succeeding the 5:45 p.m. between the Barako Bull Energy Cola and the Air21 Express, who, on other hand, are both chasing a second win in three outings.

Jones carries a burden in joining San Miguel as he replaces Boone who had led the Beermen to a 2-0 start in the mid-season tourney.

The San Miguel coaching staff is convinced Jones is the better guy. The question is whether Jones can live up to the expectation.

Boone put in solid averages of 24 points and 18.5 rebounds, leading the Beermen to a 94-76 rout of the Meralco Bolts then a 112-96 spanking of the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

Nonetheless, San Miguel gave Boone the boot then signed up Jones as the replacement import.

“The coaches feel Jones is more fitted with the team. The coaches also believe he can contribute more on defense, scoring and rebounding,” said San Miguel team manager Gee Abanilla.

Coach Norman Black expects a tough game against San Miguel.

“Based on SMB’s first two games, we will have to bring our best game when we play them,” said Black. “They’re moving very well. Major concerns will be adjusting to their new import, and the return of Junmar Fajardo.

Fajardo missed their first two games due to a sprained left ankle but the Beermen went unscathed largely behind the big games of Boone.

Jones must really be good as the team discarded Boone.

A former Consensus Second Team All-American with West Virginia U, Jones was officially measured at 6-foot-6 1/2. Boone is taller at 6-8 1/2.

A Mount Vernon, New York native, the 24-year-old power forward starred for the Canton Charge and made the most recent NBA D-League All-Star game.

Jones’ first challenge is Richard Howell and the Talk n Text squad.

With the needed boost from Howell, the Texters drubbed the Alaska Milk Aces, 85-72, then thwarted the Express, 95-91.