CONSISTENCY was the hallmark of Alaska's campaign in 2018 on the court, posting winning records during all three conferences. The Aces, though, also made news outside the court this year, and made a blockbuster trade to a franchise player for many years.
Jeron Teng stabbed in parking lot incident
Last June, fans were shocked to learn that Alaska rookie Jeron Teng along with former La Salle teammates Norbert Torres and Thomas Torres were stabbed in a parking lot incident at the Bonifacio Global City. The three escaped serious injuries and went on to play for their respective teams following the unfortunate incident.
Career year for Manuel
A star emerged for Alaska in 2018 in Vic Manuel, who had a career season for the Aces. From being a role player, Manuel became the top dog of the Aces and averaged a team-high 16 points for the Aces in the 43rd season of the PBA.
Aces finish second in Governors’ Cup
In their best finish of 2018, Alaska wound up in second place in the Governors’ Cup after bowing to Magnolia in the finals. It was still a good finish for the Aces, who suffered disappointments in the past two conferences despite getting high seeds in the playoffs.
Mike Harris wins Best Import
The 35-year-old Harris was crowned as the Best Import of the Governors’ Cup after posting averages of 29.6 points, 20.1 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks, becoming the first Alaska import after three years to win the prestigious award for reinforcements.
Alaska trades Abueva
The Aces ended their six-year partnership with Calvin Abueva after the 2012 Rookie of the Year was traded to Phoenix. The enigmatic forward didn’t show up for Alaska practice following the All-Star Weekend in Iloilo City before the trade was made.
GRADE: A-
Alaska racked up a fourth-best 31 wins during the 43rd season of the PBA but came up short come playoff time this year.
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