Tautuaa, Galliguez Legit Ready for the Bigger Stage

(Edited)

Yesterday was a big day for PBA D-League.

It feted the battle of two undefeated sides: the Cagayan Valley Rising Suns and Hapee Fresh Fighters.

One had the generation's best amateur stars. The other had a cast of tested role players surrounding a giant centerpiece. Only one can claim the top spot and after the intense and highly-physical encounter, Cagayan emerged spotless.

Two names - among many promising young stars during that day - stood out: Moala Tautuaa and Abel Galliguez. They proved in the decisive win that they are ready for the bigger stage.

(All photos are from The Shaded Lane. All shot by Mr. Mon Rubio)

Moala Tautuaa

Abel Galliguez

Moala Tautaa.

The 6-foot-8 Fil-Tongan recruit already had all the hype even before suiting up for the Rising Suns. Nicknamed "Mo," Tautuaa, who once served the Westport Malaysia Dragons for ABL, caught the attention of many PBA ball clubs during several tune-up games with Gilas.

And there will likely be no complaints if he decides to join the 2015 PBA draft and gets picked first overall. A big man who can bring the ball down, hit the long shots and cover the paint well is all a PBA team would ever want in their squad as far as modern-day bigs are concerns.

All-in-one package. As what a commentator in D-League would utter: "What else can he not do?" He averages 16 points per game to go with five rebounds and three dunks.

  

Aside from the skill set, it's Tautuaa's attitude that separates him from the field. He remains cool all the time, no matter how physical the game is. He knows where he stands and what to do. He always flashes a smile although sometimes he could be serious.

He is humble in victory and gracious to acknowledge the talents of his foes. A true lover of the game who enjoys every second he is on the court, creating good memories with his teammates, developing brotherhood with his opponents while playing pure excellent basketball. A sight that every basketball patron would love to see.

ABEL GALLIGUEZ.

While Abel doesn't get much of the spotlight, he thrives in being a silent worker, and he has been an unsung hero in most of their games.

He may not light up the scoreboard or fill out the stat sheets, but he takes charge using hustle and defense. At 5-foot-8, the John Brown University standout is quite a pain in the ass of his opponents.

Though raised in Houston, Texas, his body seems to be perfect for the physicality of the game (especially the Philippine way of getting physical). He doesn't seem to get tired and opposing players cannot get away from him.

Like Ping Exciminiano of the Alaska Aces, Galliguez, aside from his defense, has magic hands. Defenders must think twice before giving him space because he pulls up for a jumper or fearlessly drives to the paint and create opportunities for himself and teammates. He plays selfless basketball.

Against Hapee, the smallest man on the floor sank the night's biggest shot - a triple with 1.05 second left to complete a huge comeback for the Rising Suns. That's courage, calmness and confidence at its finest.

  They are ready and the PBA must prepare for new packages.