Free Pick: Ginebra+1.5 (PBA) L

Preview: Two-time Most Valuable Player Willie Miller doesn’t mind playing a supporting role for Barangay Ginebra, his fourth team in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

“Maybe, I’ll be the team’s comedian,” Miller replied when asked what role he would play for the star-studded Kings.

Miller, 32, makes his Ginebra debut against Alaska Milk, his former team, Friday in the resumption of the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.


The Kings and the Aces clash in the nightcap at 7:30 p.m. following the 5 p.m. match between San Miguel and Rain or Shine at 5 p.m.

Cyrus Baguio, the high-flying guard Miller replaced, also plays his first game with the Aces.

The blockbuster trade comes at a time both teams are struggling with two losses apiece.

Miller, a certified starter, will come off the bench, according to Ginebra coach Jong Uichico.

“We have too many players. He (Miller) will have to adjust to the system,” Uichico said.

Miller will have to compete with Jayjay Helterbrand, Mark Caguioa, Ronald Tubid and Celino Cruz for playing minutes.

Miller had little trouble mixing with his new teammates.

He already played with Junthy Valenzuela and Rico Villanueva at Red Bull, Yancy de Ocampo at Talk ’N Text, and John Ferriols at Alaska.

He also teamed with Caguioa and Helterbrand in past PBA All-Star Games.

Ginebra will parade a new import in Mildon Ambres, a former University of Southern Nazarene stalwart who recently played with the Idaho stampedes in the NBA D-League, averaging 14.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists.

Awvee Storey, Ginebra’s original import, has been placed on the injured list.

Alaska is coming off two wins against defending Philippine Cup champion B-Meg Derby Ace (83-81) last April 17 and Air21 (105-95) last April 14.

Alaska coach Tim Cone said he will make full use of Baguio?s speed and athleticism to ignite the Aces’ run-and-gun attack.

“We believe Cyrus can supply us some youth and quickness in our backcourt. His ability to get in the open court and finish will add a new dimension to out style of play,” said Cone.

Equally exciting is the match-up between San Miguel and Rain or Shine.

“Both teams are coming from a long break. I just told the players to play with intensity and focus in controlling the boards,” said Rain or Shine coach Caloy Garcia.