But by the end of it, it was not about Jay Washington’s redemption or Olsen Racela’s fairytale finish. Instead, it was the smallest player on the court towering above everybody else.

Roughly standing at 5-foot-9, Jimmy Alapag made his case as the league’s best point guard after a phenomenal performance in the title-clincher to lead Talk ‘N Text to its third title in franchise history last Friday.

Alapag weaved through San Miguel Beer’s defense all-game-long, creating paths to either set up his teammates or make his own shot en route to 15 points, five rebounds and 10 assists without a turnover in 38 minutes of play.

And as well as the 2003 Rookie of the Year has been playing throughout his career, it’s his unselfishness and leadership that set him apart.

Scratched and bruised like a warrior scarred in battle, Alapag was lost for words and was highly emotional during the post-game conference.

“I’m so proud of our guys,” said Alapag, struggling to fight back his tears.

“Last conference was the worst loss of my career and for these guys to step up and continue to work and push, here we are, mission accomplished,” added Alapag, citing his team’s meltdown as it squandered a 3-2 series lead to eventual champion Alaska back in the semifinals of the Fiesta Cup.

Of course it wasn’t the Talk ‘N Text starting guard who did all the damage, but Alapag served as the driving force that kept his team running.

The Texters had their guns ablaze as they enjoyed a 2-0 series advantage but in a twitch, the ghost of Talk ‘N Text’s came to fore as the Texters saw San Miguel even the series at 2-2.

Fearing history would repeat itself in consecutive fashion, Alapag flourished in the last two games as he averaged 15.5 points, six rebounds, 10 assists and 0 turnovers.

Already with three titles across his name, Alapag was also named as the co-Finals MVP along with Jason Castro.

TNT head coach Chot Reyes cited that on their team’s pre-game notes last Friday---nothing was written on the board but the word best.

The multi-titled coach called for it, and his leader delivered.

“We're going to enjoy this (championship) for a few days but we're going to get right back to work and try our best to do it again,” Alapag finished.

Mark Simon Vincent Giongco, Phil. Daily Inquirer