Game 1 would answer the age-old question: is it better to have a longer rest period or come into this game locked in and ready? Stags disposed of their semifinal opponents in 2 games with both games being double digit victories. It took 3 games in grueling fashion for Sonics to finish off Bullets. Both teams came out sluggish and cold from the field as the two teams combined for only 21 points in the first quarter. Rob Del Reosario and Billy “The Kid” Ramos started to catch fire from the field in the second quarter and built a sizeable lead for Stags. Ivan Sanchez kept his team within striking distance after a couple of deep three point shots. The 3rd quarter belonged to Justin Gomez as he dominated in the paint with breath-taking dribble drives to the basket. As a team Sonics could not get their offense going, shooting a miserable 16 for 58 from the field. A tall tell sign that Sonics were fatigued was that they were outrebounded 42-23 with only 6 offensive rebounds. Billy would earn his first MVP award, leading Stags to a 17 point win in game 1. It will be interesting to see the adjustments made for game 2, Can sonics find their offense and extend this series? Can Justin and Kuya Ron bring the championship back to Chicago? The biggest question, can Billy Ramos win Finals MVP?

Game 1 was a defensive masterpiece by both teams, if you like offense then that game was not for you. It was an evenly matched game until Stags pulled away in the 4th quarter as they exploded for 23 points. If Royals want to get back in this series they have to stop settling for 3 pointers, especially when they shoot a bleak 20.7% from downtown. They have the personnel to take the ball to the hoop, so I expect them to be more aggressive in the paint. Stags is the deepest team and it showed in game one as all players scored with 5 guys scoring 8 points or more. Stags can continue to win games with their defense, but if Ron “The Commish” Hao continues to hit shots then it will free up Rob Del Rosario to go nuts from downtown. Drew Cabotaje is a player to continue to watch, he is starting to assert himself on the offensive end, while Nero Viguilla will need a bounce back game for Royals if they want to extend this series.