This year, the annual PBA event has been dubbed “Hala Bola” All-Star Weekend where a lot of the current PBA stars are expected to give the folks over there something to remember.

Last year, the event was held in Puerto Princessa, Palawan.

The North and South PBA All Star teams have already been announced and so with the other events like the Rookies vs Sophomore, Blitz game, the PBA Slam Dunk contest, the Three Point shoot out, the Obstacle Challenge and Legends Shootout.

The Rookies vs Sophomore game will showcase the league’s young stars, led by Noy Baclao of Petron/SMB, Rob Labagala (Ginebra) and Josh Vanlandingham (Rain or Shine). Other members of the team include Rey Guevarra (Petron/SMB), Elmer Espiritu (Alaska), Hans Thiele (Alaska), Shawn Weinsten (Meralco) and John Wilson (Ginebra).

The Sophomore team will have Josh Urbiztondo (Air21), Chris Ross (Meralco) and Gerwin Gaco (B-Meg) to lead their squad. Others are Francis Allera (Powerade), Marcy Arellano (Air21), Jervy Cruz (ROS), Emerson Oreta (TNT) and Larry Rodriguez (RoS).

The Sophomores likewise hope to continue their mastery over the Rookies like last year when they won, 106-86 – thanks to Jared Dillinger of Talk ’N Text who was eventually named MVP.

Petron rookie Rabeh Al-Hussaini will be instead playing for the North squad All-Stars in the main offering, the only rookie picked for either North or South squads.

The PBA North All-Stars hope to come out on top again as they did last year when they won over the PBA South All Stars, 133-130. Gabe Norwood of the Rain or Shine team copped MVP last year.

The PBA Slam Dunk contest will have a new champion this year after defending champion KG Canaleta of B-Meg begged off from competing this time.

Among the participants include Gabe Norwood (RoS), JC Intal (Ginebra), Ronald Tubid (Ginebra), Jay Washington (Petron/SMB), Elmer Espiritu (Alaska), Rey Guevarra (Petron/SMB) and Kelly Williams (TnT).

Brian Yalung, Manila Bulletin