Asia’s Lashes tests Skippers

Asia’s Lashes Tomas Morato beefs up its roster as it battles the unbeaten Marinerong Pilipino in the second game of the PBA D-League Foundation Cup today at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Asia’s Lashes brought in guards James Martinez and James Castro just in time for their 3:30 p.m. encounter against the 3-0 Skippers.

In the first game, Alberei battles Technological Institute of the Philippines at 1:30 p.m. while McDavid-La Salle Araneta squares off with Hyperwash Vipers at 5:30 in the afternoon.

Asia’s Lashes, holding a 2-1 win-loss slate, is coming off a huge 77-62 win over Nailtalk St. Dominic Savio to stay on track for a playoff spot.

“We will do some adjustments in our game against Marinero because they’re all stars of the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League),” Asia’s Lashes head coach Alvin Grey said.

The arrival of Martinez and Castro gives them backcourt depth and more offensive weapons. Jhygrus Laude led Asia’s Lashes in its previous game with 16 points and got help from Rickson Gerero and Francis Camacho.

Asia’s Lashes is currently tied with the iWalk Chargers for third spot behind Centro Escolar University (3-0) and Marinero (3-0).

The Skippers are also coming off a big win over AMA Online Education 91-82, to share the top spot with the Scorpions in Group A.

Marinero used its experience against the Titans after blowing an 18-point lead to hold on for the victory.

Skippers’ defense held Aaron Black to just 12 points while five Marineo players hit double figures led by Jhonard Clarito, who had 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists against AMA.

Aside from Clarito, Marinerong Pilipino will also rely on ex-pros Eloy Poligrates and JR Alabanza to stretch their winning streak to four games.