Player of the Week March 7 to 13

JOE Devance put up monster numbers for Alaska in the week that was, earning for himself the
Accel-PBA Press Corps Player of the Week citation for the period March 7 to 13.

The do-it-all forward notched averages of 20.5 points, 15.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists in leading the
Aces to back-to-back wins over the San Miguel Beermen and the B-MEG Derby Ace Llamados.

Those figures got him the scribes’ nod over teammate LA Tenorio, who was also impressive with his
own two-game averages of 18 points, 4.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists.

Devance said he was just trying to do what he can in helping Alaska’s campaign in the import-laden
Commissioner’s Cup.

“I’m really trying to get my teammates involved and have fun while doing it,” said the
27-year-old southpaw.

“I have great teammates and coaching staff that believe in me. Our system is fit for me to do
well. I just make it a point to go hard every time I’m on the court.”

This determination showed when Devance notched 22 points, seven rebounds and five assists as Alaska
fended off SMB, 96-94, last Wednesday. He scattered 19 of his points in the first three quarters
that helped the Aces build up a cushion that took the sting off the Beermen’s endgame comeback.

Against Derby Ace, Devance was even more devastating as he poured in 19 points on top of a game-high
14 rebounds in a 97-91 win. He scored all but two of the Aces’ last eight points inside the final
two minutes

Those victories jacked Alaska’s win-loss record to 4-1 and kept it right on track to advancing
into the next round.

For sure, Devance will continue to be a pillar of strength in the Aces’ drive. (NC) PBA.PH