Where have all the good players gone?

Just caught recently caught a glimpse of the lineup that the combined UAAP/NCAA representation will be fielding for the charity game on Monday, and I have to say, WTF?

Really? This is what you guys came up with?

Look, I can understand the idea of Ateneo and UE not participating seeing as its the UAAP finals and all. And those four NCAA teams that have a game scheduled for that day, okay. You get a pass, too. And it's a bit of a stretch, I guess "preparations for the Final Four" counts an excuse for San Sebastian, San Beda, JRU and Letran, although that sure shows where their priorities are at right now.

But considering all that, this still can't be the best you can come up with, UAAP and NCAA.

So that leaves Adamson, FEU, La Salle, NU, UP and UST for the UAAP. CSB and Mapua for the NCAA. Not a lot to work with, but it's something.

But I'm with Trix of Driball on ths one. Where's Jeric Teng and Khasim Mirza? RR Garcia, anyone? And I wouldn't mind seeing James Mangahas pair up with little brother Allan out on the court.

Look, I understand equal representation. But when eight of your 10 teams back out (and yes, I'm talking to you, NCAA), shouldn't the other league get to put in some replacements? You have two teams participating. TWO. And while I can't argue with the picks from Mapua (although Erwin Cornejo would be a nice addition), four reps from CSB? Really? The same CSB team that's been forced to sit out its best players (Jeff Morial, Illie Johnston) the past few games?

Would it hurt so much to reschedule Monday's NCAA games so at least we get a Gio Ciriacruz or an Argel Mendoza out there? Throw the fans a bone here. It's not like we're asking for Sudan Daniel, Jimbo Aquino and John Wilson here. At least, not anymore.

The opening game had a lot of promise. It isn't everyday you see a combined UAAP/NCAA team. Too bad this was the best they could do.

(PS to the players, no disrespect meant to any of you. Thank you for taking part in this very good cause.)