NEWCOMERS PANGASINAN, ABRA COLLIDE IN MPBL OPENER

NEWCOMERS Pangasinan and Abra test each other’s mettle when they tangle on opening day of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Sixth Season at the Calasiao Sports Complex in Pangasinan. Game time is 8 p.m. Zamboanga clashes with Valenzuela in the 6 p.m. opener of this 30-team league founded by Emmanuel

“Manny” Pacquiao.

Determined to make a splash in the country’s top regional league right away, the Pangasinan Heatwaves and the Abra Weavers have assembled rosters strong enough to challenge the traditional MPBL powerhouses.

Pangasinan acquired the services of multi-titled coach Jerson Cabiltes to steer the Heatwaves who will be bannered by Michael Mabulac, Mark Dyke, Hesed Gabo, JonJon Gabriel, Dennice Villamor, Jerald Bautista, Ian Melencio, Jeff Javillonar, Jay-R Taganas, Vince Tolentino and Mark Poole.

The Weavers, on the other hand, will be mentored by Jonathan Banal and will be led by NCAA Season 99 Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year

Clint Escamis, Mac Tallo, Prince Caperal, Jeepy Faundo, Felipe Chavez, Mark Mantuano, Jimboy Pasturan, Tonton Bringas and King Destacamento.

Back to guide Zamboanga anew is former national mentor Louie Alas, who will be pinning his hopes on twins Jaycee and Jayvee Marcelino, Joseph Terso, Joseph Gabayni, Jayson

Apolinario, John Mahari, Adrian Santos, Chito Jaime, Rey Publico, Jason Strait, Lorenzo Subido and Mark Omega.

Alas said Zamboanga is going all-out for the title this year even as he foresees a rough sailing owing to the equally strong lineups of at least 14 teams this year.

After failing to advance to the quarterfinal round last year, Valenzuela

has bolstered its fold with the acquisition of Dennis Santos, Orin Catacutan, Chris Dechavez, Val Chauca, Alfonso Gotladera and the 6-foot-9 Ladis Lepalam.

Pacquiao and league commissioner Kenneth Duremdes will grace the opening ceremonies starting with the parade of the competing teams and their muses at 4 p.m.