Happy Birthday, Miguel “Mike” Bilbao ( Feb 28 )

Mike Bilbao, perhaps the most senior in the Yco-Tanduay line-up, isn't getting any younger. But just the same, he's still the dashing, speedy Redshirt who has made hardcourt larceny look as easy as swiping lollipops from babies. There was a time when "Mighty" Mike lorded it over all his counterparts in the swiping department. Now, younger guards have emerged to challenge him. At 30, one can't simply say that the 5'8" Bilbao is in the twilight of his career. He can still play for say, about four to five years more, but with the brand of basketball that he has consistently displayed, many doubt he'll go that far. The wear and tear his body goes through during every hardcourt skirmish will surely take its toll. And Mike knows this. "I'm feeling the pains already. Before, I could take the elbows and bumps even if they're done intentionally. Now, I'm beginning to feel them," said a gasping Mike Bilbao when interviewed after YcoTanduay's win over Gilbey's Gins last weekend. Almost everything has already been said about Mike. He was a true-Green La Sallite who spent his elementary days up to his collegiate years as an Archer. He was the skipper of the La Salle varsity team in 1971. In 1972, he was co-captain for the RP Youth quintet. Rey Franco was the team captain. He played two seasons for Mariwasa in the MICAA then joined YCO. In 1976, he was elevated to the pro ranks. Bilbao missed some conferences due to a number of injuries but he has always managed to come back with that old zing. And although he is relatively small compared to the tall newcomers, his presence still is intimidating on the hardcourt. Mike says, "We have very good young guards now. Especially those who came from Ron Jacobs. They have good ball control and good command of the game. They are always physically prepared. But I can't really say mentally. You know, since they're still young, sometimes, they come into the game with their minds somewhere else." "We really learn from the Americans, like the imports, for instance, whether they are guards, forwards or centers. That's because they are fundamentally sound, very scientific. Competition in the States is very stiff. Maybe, if we can bring more people like Ron Jacobs to train our players, we might win more games," Mike adds. "Mighty" Mike, having been a part of the PBA for so long, notes that the style of play in the Peso league has become more complex than in 1976. "You have to be in tip-top shape or else, that's it for you. Most of the good guys in the MICAA are here already. Nowadays, there's no more room for seniority in the teams, although some coaches still rely on experience. Majority do not. If you're good, you play." Mike also notices that little by little the players are getting into that professional mentality. "Before, basketball was considered as a sideline, as a means of companionship. The goal before, was to get into the RP team. Now, it's for the money. You have to make good in order to turn pro."