Anyone who needs proof of the success of the PBA Legends Grand Reunion tour here can find it in the Union City arena. There, people actually had to be turned away from the venue.

And it wasn't simply because tickets run out. They had to be turned away because if organizers allowed them to get in, they would be committing a fire code violation.

The dream series was a smash hit among Filipino fans in Northern California and even if organizers followed fire code requirements to the last letter, action was steaming hot, leading the people behind the event to believe that stops in LA and San Diego will be just as fruitful.

A bunch of retired Philippine Basketball Association stars are touring American cities, renewing rivalries and playing exhibition matches to raise funds for ex-professional ball players.

Fans enjoyed the throwback treat, particularly since a bulk of the players represented the old rivalry between fabled squads Crispa and Toyota.

Ramon Fernandez battled against Abet Guidaben, Abe King took on Philip Cezar, Francis Arnaiz challenged Bernie Fabiosa, Atoy Co tested Tim Coloso and Bogs Adornado faced Bong Alvarez, who replaced the Living Legend, former Senator Robert Jaworski, who could not play because of a shoulder injury.

The players were divided into two squads. Jaworski coached the Ohana Harbor Coffee team while Cris Calilan coached the Martin Purefoods team.

Fans of the younger generation of retirees also had a reason to cheer: Among those present were four-time MVP Alvin Patrimonio, Vergel Meneses, Allan Caidic, Ronnie Magsanoc, Jojo Lastimosa, Jerry Codiñera and Hector Calma.

There was also an interactive three-point shootout where fans lined up to try their luck against a PBA Legend. In Sacramento, none of the fans who tried their luck against Caidic won.

But the highlight of the events was the chance for fans to mingle and pose with, and get autographs from, their long-time idols.

Jaworski was mobbed by fans who had to be ushered back to their seats so that the games could start.

Major sponsors are Martin Purefoods, Ohana Harbor Coffee, San Miguel Corporation, Balita and Philippine News.