HIGHLIGHTS: PBA All Star 2014 Skills Challenge

MANILA, Philippines – The Stars are out tonight as the Philippine Basketball Association holds its annual All Star festivities starting Friday, April 4.

First up is the Skills Challenge where Jonas Villanueva, Chris Tiu, and Chris Ellis will be defending their titles.

Three-time obstacle course defending champion Jonas Villanueva will look to get his fourth crown as ball-handling master against the top guards Mark Barroca (San Mig Super Coffee), Jayvee Casio (Alaska), Willie Miller (Barako Bull), LA Tenorio (Ginebra), Terrence Romeo (GlobalPort), John Wilson (Meralco), Paul Lee (Rain or Shine), Sol Mercado (San Miguel Beer), and Jayson Castro (Talk ‘N Text).

Chris Tiu will defend his three-point shootout title and singles out Gilas gunner Larry Fonacier as his strongest opponent. But Fonacier plays down his chances.

“Huwag kayo maniwala sa kanya (Tiu),” Fonacier said in jest. “Siya ang defending champion so siya ang aim namin talunin.”

He added laughing, “Hindi totoo yung sinasabi niya!”

(Don’t believe him. He’s the defending champion so we aim to beat him. What he’s saying isn’t true!)

Other participants include Mac Baracael (Ginebra), James Yap (San Mig Super Coffee), Mark Macapagal (GlobalPort), Casio (Alaska), Mark Cardona (Air21), Ronjay Buenafe (Barako Bull), Gary David (Meralco), and Marcio Lassiter (San Miguel).

Lastly, Ginebra’s Chris Ellis is ready to take flight once more as he defends his slam dunk king title. “Air Force” Ellis said he has “a couple of aces” up his sleeve.

Going up against the wiry wing man are his teammate Japeth Aguilar, rookie Justin Melton (San Mig Super Coffee), Calvin Abueva (Alaska), Arwind Santos (San Miguel Beermen), Rey Guevarra (Meralco Bolts), and Cliff Hodge (Meralco Bolts).

Follow the All Star Skills Challenge on Rappler’s live blog.

– Rappler.com