inboundpass.com – Covering Philippine college basketball / UAAP, NCAA, PCC

It is no longer a rumor nor a single liner in a newspaper article. Agent 0, better known in the NBA as one of the most eccentric, colorful and cocky players the league has ever seen – Gilbert Arenas of the Washington Wizards has been scheduled to arrive in Philippine (and will include China) soil sometime this July. His showers during haftime breaks and his regular rantings in the blogosphere about other teams, players and himself has been a regular trademark for this unique NBA superstar.

In a recent conversation with Adidas Philippines Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager, Ms. Odette Velarde, “Mr. Arenas has been scheduled to visit Manila this July (2008) but it is still premature, situations might change”. I asked Ms. Velarde if Mr. Arenas will grace an Ateneo – La Salle game since this season’s host, UP, projected a weekend meeting for this rivalry to unfold for the Nth time this July 6, 2008. She said that Mr. Arena’s will most likely drop by and grab a seat to watch the Blue Eagles and Green Archers go at it in the 1st round of the elimination series.

Adidas is the official outfitter of both the Blue Eagles and the Green Archers for UAAP Season 71. The La Salle and Ateneo Community can also buy their favorite Tees and jackets with the Adidas brand so branding and school spirit will now be part of an ancient sports tradition.

The buzz about his arrival has been reported by the print media some months ago. But Ms. Velarde cautioned that the anticipation might, and we hope not, turn into an utter disappointment. These are million dollar babies we are talking about. With their high aptitude for the game of basketball, aside from their family, Corporations, Organizations, and a Franchise depend on them for their appeal, persona and for what they stand for so any domestic problems we encounter might affect the outcome of the planned event.

Ms. Velarde cited the initial plans of Tracy McGrady’s visit to the country as an example. Although T-Mac’s sojourn pushed thru, his visit was marred by speculation and doubt on his safety. Stability is very important for the Philippines to have such high profile international sports personalities like T-Mac come visit the country.  For now, much like a party, its better to surprise ourselves that plan for a well executed festival.

From ZERO to Hero is Gilbert Arena’s main theme. Even before he got drafted in the NBA, Agent 0 has struggled throughout his career. He had to prove to himself and to everybody that he was the real deal. That is why during his visit here, he is also scheduled to meet with kids to give hope and inspiration to pursue their dream no matter what the obstacle. Impossible is Nothing.

In T-Mac’s case, his was defaced with a potential Mayon Volcano explosion so Sebastian Telfair had to take his place, but better late than never, T-Mac had a great time during his stay here.

So far the sky is clear for Agent 0 to land safely in Manila. Unless a sleeping giant of a problem awakens. Impossible is still possible, but until then, optimism please.

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