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Almost a decade has passed since Diamon Simpson wore an Alaska jersey, let alone play in the PBA, yet it looked like he never left when he returned on Friday.
After eight years, Simpson showed that he still knows his way around, finishing with 19 points, 18 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks in Alaska’s 114-91 win over Phoenix in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.
“It’s good to be back, the PBA is one of my favorite places especially with the Aces, it’s like a family organization so I’m glad to be back,” said Simpson Friday at Cuneta Astrodome.
Simpson’s return was also of utmost timing as he helped the Aces clinch the no.2 seed that came with twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
Jeron Teng, who got involved in a stabbing incident in June, was back playing for the team as well.
“If we win, that’s a plus but I think we should focus on playing as hard as we can,” said Simpson who led the Aces to the 2010 Fiesta Cup.
“There are some pretty good teams here and we are in second place, which is easier that when I was here the last time.”
Alaska finished as the no.4 team in the 2010 Fiesta Cup with an 11-7 record after a double round robin elimination stage.
Simpson, then at 22-years-old, played with the likes of Cyrus Baguio, LA Tenorio, Reynel Hugnatan, Sonny Thoss, now Phoenix assistant coach Topex Robinson, and now Alaska assistant coaches Jeff Cariaso and Tony dela Cruz.
No one from the 2010 team, with the exception of Thoss, is still with the Aces, who now have Best Player of the Conference contender Vic Manuel, Chris Banchero, Jeron Teng, JVee Casio, and Simon Enciso.
“I didn’t have to work as hard because a lot of players are good so that’s a plus,” Simpson said.
Simpson handled the dirty work under the boards but it was Manuel who took care of the offensive duties with 28 points to lead the team.