There is little left unknown in Mark Cardona's offense and yet the opposition still wasn't able to stop him. As a result, Cardona proved every bit the explosive player that he is - again - and he is once more the unanimous choice as the PBA Press Corps' Player of the Week for the period June 25-July 1.

It was the second straight and seventh such citation - the most among all players - this season for the 6-foot-1 guard and TNT coach Derick Pumaren attributed it all to the player making a mockery of the Red Bull defense in their best-of-seven semifinals duel.

With Cardona leading the way, the Phone Pals wrapped up the series, 4-2, and advanced to another race-to-four meeting with the Alaska Aces for the championship.

"He has simply killed the defense," Pumaren said of the former La Salle standout whose variety of hooks, floaters and jumpers shredded the defense and led to astonishing numbers in the week that was, including a career game.

Even Cardona himself was left dumbfounded at the 29.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.6 steals he averaged in TNT's three games, including 32.5 points in their 112-111 and 122-110 wins that wrapped up the series.

"I still can't believe it," said the 25-year-old Mandaluyong native.

It is more of his team reaching the finals that gives him the greater pleasure, however.

Red Bull coach Yeng Guiao had ample reason to feel optimistic opening up the week by holding Cardona down to "just" 20 points in a 111-104 win last Wednesday. But whatever "defensive management" the Bulls did on Cardona was only short-lived.

Just two days later, Cardona racked up 30 points and followed that up with a new career-high 38 points in the clincher last Sunday, marking the third time in seven games he re-set his own mark and fourth time in seven games he scored 30 or more.

Pumaren now wants to talk at those who opined Cardona will not make it in the PBA, while himself wondering what is in store for "Captain Hook."

"People say he couldn't make it in the PBA and he has proven them wrong," noted Pumaren.

Cardona has far more urgent thoughts on his mind. "We have to finish the job and win the championship". *www.pba.ph

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