PBA All Star 2012 Highlights: Top Plays and Unforgettable Moments from the Game

I still remember sitting in that crowded sports bar back in 2012, surrounded by fellow basketball enthusiasts, all of us completely mesmerized by what was unfolding during the PBA All-Star Game. The energy was electric, almost tangible, and I recall thinking how this particular game felt different from previous years—more spontaneous, more raw in its display of talent. What made it truly special was Team C-3, the Rain or Shine squad, a group that wasn't necessarily packed with household names but played with a chemistry that you rarely see in all-star settings. They weren't just individual stars showing off; they moved as a unit, and that's what captured my heart that night.

Let me take you back to one specific moment that still gives me chills. John Matthew Manalang, who I'd only seen in highlight reels before, drove to the basket with such ferocity that two defenders literally bounced off him. He wasn't the biggest guy on the court, standing at what I'd guess was about 5'11", but he played with the heart of someone seven feet tall. The way he contorted his body mid-air to avoid a block, then finished with a reverse layup that kissed the glass perfectly—it was pure artistry. What made it better was how Ethan Galang, who had been trailing the play, immediately rushed to help him up. That small gesture spoke volumes about their team dynamic. These weren't just teammates; they were brothers having the time of their lives.

Then there was that sequence in the third quarter where the game seemed to shift momentum. Alfred Sedillo, who I'd argue was the most underrated player on that roster, stole the ball near mid-court. Instead of going for the flashy dunk, he made the smart pass to John Bravo who was cutting baseline. Bravo could have taken the shot himself—he had a decent look—but he made the extra pass to Jack Cruz-Dumont in the corner. The ball movement was so crisp, so precise, it felt like watching a perfectly choreographed dance. When Cruz-Dumont sank that three-pointer, the entire arena erupted. I remember turning to my friend and saying, "That's how basketball should be played!" It wasn't about individual glory; it was about making the right play.

What really stood out to me was how different players stepped up at different moments. Gab Gomez, who I'll admit I hadn't heard much about before that game, had this incredible block that I'd estimate sent the ball about ten rows into the stands. The sheer athleticism required for that play still boggles my mind. Meanwhile, Kenny Rocacurva was quietly having what I'd call a masterpiece of a game—his court vision was exceptional, and he finished with what I believe was around 8 assists, though my memory might be fuzzy on the exact number. Vincent Cunanan provided the energy off the bench, diving for loose balls like it was Game 7 of the finals rather than an exhibition match.

The most unforgettable moment for me personally came during the fourth quarter. Mitchelle Maynes, who had been relatively quiet throughout the game, caught fire at the perfect time. He hit three consecutive three-pointers from what felt like the same spot on the floor—each one deeper than the last. The third one was particularly ridiculous; he must have been at least 28 feet out when he released it. The net barely moved, it was so pure. I remember jumping out of my seat and spilling my drink, but I didn't even care. That's the kind of magic you watch sports for—those spontaneous bursts of brilliance that you can't script or predict.

John Edcel Rojas brought something else entirely to the game—a kind of old-school physicality that you don't see much in all-star games anymore. There was one play where he set a screen so solid that the defender actually stumbled backward. It wasn't dirty or anything, just fundamentally perfect basketball. In an era where everyone wants to show off their flashy handles and deep threes, seeing someone take pride in the little things was refreshing. It reminded me that basketball at its core is about all the roles, not just the scoring.

As the game wound down, what struck me was how these players, who normally competed against each other during the regular season, had formed such a cohesive unit in just a short time. They celebrated each other's successes genuinely, with high-fives and hugs that felt authentic rather than performative. When the final buzzer sounded, regardless of who officially won the game (though I'm pretty sure Team C-3 came out on top), what stayed with me was the quality of basketball they'd displayed. They proved that even in an all-star setting, team basketball could shine through. To this day, when I think about the most enjoyable basketball games I've witnessed, the 2012 PBA All-Star Game featuring that Rain or Shine squad always comes to mind. It wasn't just about the highlights—though there were plenty—but about how they created something greater than the sum of their parts, and gave us fans memories that would last long after the final stat sheet was filed away.