ALLAN THE MAN

The SMART-Gilas Pilipinas squad battled back from a double-digit fourth quarter deficit to force the tie in what was the first public appearance of the latest incarnation of the national team.

The PBA All-Stars promised to provide a challenge for the Gilas team preparing for the FIBA Asia Championship, and they made good on it. Arwind Santos, who won co-Most Valuable Player honors for the game, led the selection to a hot 9-2 start to begin the game.

Former PBA Most Valuable Player Kenneth Duremdes shone brightest among the league’s legends on Friday night, leading his Stalwarts team to a 112-105 victory over the Greats squad in the featured match of the All-Star event at the Davao Del Sur Coliseum.

Duremdes finished with 19 points, including the go-ahead three-pointer that gave his team a 105-103 lead with two minutes remaining in the game, to win the game’s MVP honors.

He was a last-minute replacement for another PBA legend, Benjie Paras, who couldn’t make the trip. The legends game featured former PBA stars teaming up with active players from the league.

Boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao wants to take part in the coming PBA All-Star week that begins Wednesday.

PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial told The Philippine Star that the fighting congressman of Sarangani province volunteered his participation through Davao del Sur Gov. Douglas Cagas.

"Manny asked Gov. Cagas if he can play. We said he's very much welcome. We can include him in the Legends Game. We're still awaiting the confirmation," said Marcial.