I still remember the buzz in the arena that night—the electric atmosphere that only a PBA All-Star weekend can generate. The 2012 edition was particularly special, not just because of the star power on display, but because of how Team C-3, representing Rain or Shine, showcased what teamwork truly means. As someone who’s followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I’ve seen my fair share of All-Star games, but this one? It’s etched in my memory for all the right reasons. Let me take you back to that unforgettable evening, focusing on the players who made it epic.
Right from the tip-off, you could tell this wasn’t going to be your typical exhibition match. John Matthew Manalang, with his lightning-quick handles, set the tone early. I recall one play where he crossed over his defender so smoothly, it felt like time slowed down—he dished out an assist that led to an easy bucket, and the crowd erupted. Manalang finished with what I’d estimate were around 12 points and 8 assists, though official stats might vary; his court vision was just phenomenal. Then there was Ethan Galang, whose athleticism had us all on our feet. He threw down a dunk in the second quarter that I swear rattled the backboard—a moment that’s still replayed in highlight reels today. What stood out to me, though, was how these guys weren’t just playing for themselves; they were feeding off each other’s energy, something Rain or Shine has always been known for.
John Bravo and John Edcel Rojas brought that gritty, no-nonsense style to the game. Bravo’s defense was relentless—I remember him swatting away a shot that seemed certain to go in, leading to a fast break. Rojas, on the other hand, was all about versatility. He hit a couple of three-pointers that stretched the floor, and his rebounding, especially on the offensive glass, gave Team C-3 second-chance points. I’d guess he grabbed at least 10 rebounds that night, though my memory might be fuzzy on the exact number. Alfred Sedillo and Jack Cruz-Dumont added depth with their steady play; Sedillo’s mid-range jumper was money, and Cruz-Dumont’s presence in the paint made it tough for opponents to score inside. Watching them, I couldn’t help but think how underrated some of these players were—they didn’t always get the headlines, but in games like this, they shone bright.
The second half was where the magic really happened. Mitchelle Maynes and Gab Gomez stepped up in clutch moments. Maynes had this incredible block followed by a coast-to-coast layup that had the arena roaring. Gomez, with his sharpshooting, drained a three-pointer from way downtown—I’d say it was from about 25 feet out, though I might be exaggerating a bit—and it felt like a dagger. Kenny Rocacurva and Vincent Cunanan wrapped it up with some flair; Rocacurva’s passing was a thing of beauty, setting up alley-oops and open looks, while Cunanan’s hustle plays, like diving for loose balls, showed heart that you don’t always see in All-Star games. Personally, I’ve always been a sucker for players who leave it all on the court, and these guys did exactly that. The final score, if I recall correctly, was something like 120-115 in favor of Team C-3, but honestly, the numbers don’t do justice to the drama and excitement.
Reflecting on that night, it’s clear why the PBA All-Star 2012 remains a standout in my book. It wasn’t just about the flashy plays or the individual brilliance; it was a testament to chemistry and passion. Rain or Shine’s squad, from Manalang to Cunanan, embodied what makes basketball in the Philippines so special—the blend of skill, heart, and sheer entertainment. As a fan, I walked away feeling inspired, and even now, rewatching those highlights, I’m reminded why I fell in love with the game. If you ever get a chance to relive those moments, do it—you won’t regret it.
