Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Under The New Name

In 2001, the team was then again renamed to Talk 'N Text Phone Pals after Piltel became a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MNVO) in 2000.

Then in 2003, the team drafted two Filipino – American players namely Harvey Carey (3rd overall pick) and Jimmy Alapag (10th overall pick), the latter was with the RP national pool in 2002. Asi Taulava also returned to the team after getting the approval of the Department of Justice. Even with the addition of the two rookies and the returned of their formidable center, the team still struggled early in the All Filipino tournament that prompted their then foreign coach to leave. Joel Banal took over the coaching duties and things started to fall into place for them. They finally had their first ever championship trophy. After the 2003 season, Asi Taulava was named of Most Valuable Player while partner Jimmly Alapag won the Rookie of the Year.

Over the years, the team faced several controversies and made some major changes within the team. Asi Taulava was traded and a new coach was hired. This move was made to improve the team performance in the league.

The team had a final change of name in 2008, this time calling it Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters. They have also acquired fresh talents in names of Jared Dillinger and Jayson Castro. They also participated in a very controversial deal that would send Sta Lucia’s top players Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes to the team.

After struggling for so many years, the team finally found its perfect roster. Having won 3 championships in their 5 straight finals appearances, the team is making a dynasty in the Philippine Basketball Association!

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