NU star high on stint with Iverson

MANILA, Philippines - Just being on the same court with NBA great Allen Iverson is one opportunity Troy Rosario of newly-crowned UAAP men’s champion National University is not going to waste away.

While admitting he’s not really fond of the former 6-foot superstar guard of the Philadelphia 76ers, the NU power forward said it’s an honor just to join hands with Iverson as part of PCWorx’s ‘All In’ charity basketball event slated on Nov. 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“Sobrang excited kasi minsan lang ito mangyari. Once in a lifetime lang ito na makasama mo yung napapanood mo lang dati,” said Rosario during his personal appearance in the weekly Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at Shakey’s Malate on Tuesday where he came along with PCWorx managing director Michael Angelo Chua.

Rosario, who played a key role in ending the Bulldogs’ 60-year UAAP title drought last week following their win over the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in their sudden-death match, admitted not being a fan of the 39-year-old Iverson, who was named NBA MVP in 2001.

“I’ve seen him play sa internet na lang, kasi nung time na naglalaro siya hindi pa ako masyadong fan ng basketball noon,” said Rosario during the session presented by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., Shakey’s, and Accel.

But nonetheless the NU stalwart is looking forward at sharing the same stage with the former Georgetown star especially in an event being held for the benefit of Gawad Kalinga.

Rosario is part of Team PCWorx of coach Tim Cone that will play Team Gawad Kalinga to be handled by Iverson himself in a one-game charity event.

Apart from Rosario, also with Team PCWorx are reigning UAAP MVP Kiefer Ravena and brother Thirdy Ravena, college stars Almond Vosotros, Mark Belo, Javee Mocon, Ola Adeogun, Jaymar Perez and former PBA aces Jerry Codinera, Marlou Aquino, and Willie Miller.

Iverson’s team on the other hand, is composed of Ball Up Streetball All-Stars.

Chua said Iverson will not suit up for the game, but is going to show some of his basketball skills to the crowd by halftime.

“Rest assured that during halftime, AI will be showing some of his skills to the crowd including his famous crossover,” said Chua.  

Apart from the charity game, Iverson is also going to conduct two cage clinics, including one at Barangay Holy Spirit in Quezon City.

“When we bring in people like AI here, it’s just like hitting two birds with one stone. Working with Gawad Kalinga and at the same time, seeing world class players to be in the flesh,” he said.