PLDT All-Star Challenge ends with an emotional reunion

UP PEP Squad did the opening and halftime show

PBA great Bobby and son Ray-Ray Parks of NU Bulldogs

Basketball fans trooped to the Mall of Asia Arena last Wedneday for the PLDT All-Star Challenge that featured Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and Jason Williams among others.

Despite the heavy downpour that afternoon, people slowly trickled in to the newest venue for sports and other events.

Everyone was in awe of the former NBA All Stars at the venue. Most of the die-hard fans waited outside the locker room and wanted to take a picture or get an autograph of their jersey or basketball card.

Patricia Bermudez-Hizon with his boys

All of the former NBA players looked fit and ready to give a good show.

Our PBA players meanwhile were out of shape given that they only had two week to prepare. At one point in the first quarter, the Philippine All Stars had to substitute all five players who started.

But the Philippine crew gave a good account of themselves showing flashes of their old selves.

There was the kili-kili shot by Marlou Aquino. Noli Locsin and Nelson Asaytono bulldozing in the paint even if their minds were willing but their bodies were not. Kenneth Duremdes still looked like in tip-top form and could possibly see action in the next PBA season.

Dennis Rodman acknowledging his father, Philander Rodman Jr

Memorable moment of the night involved Dennis Rodman and his father, Philander Rodman, Jr.Dennis called on his father during the last timeout of the game.

With 16 seconds remaining in the game, the US All-Stars scalled a timeout. Rodman called out to his father, Phil.

"I haven't seen my father in 42 years. But that's him, sitting right there. And then he pointed to the elder Rodman who was seated behind one of the court.
 
Catch the video here of the meeting between Dennis and his father, Philander.

The PLDT All Star Basketball Challenge will be aired on AKTV on IBC 13 on July 23, Monday at 8pm and on Friday, July 27 at 9pm.

Highlight Reel - Jason Williams does an alley-oop pass to Scottie Pippen who dunked it