MANILA---The Philippine Basketball Association marks a historic chapter when it unveils the inaugural season of the Developmental League (D-League) today at the FilOil-Flying V Arena in San Juan.
Four of the 13 teams kick off their campaign in the D-League Foundation Cup, the farm tournament aimed at discovering prospective talents for the pro cage league.
The Maynilad Water Dragons, fielding the core of reigning NCAA champion San Beda, hope to make the most out of their team chemistry in their 2 p.m. battle against the Cobra Ironmen.
NCAA top rookie Carlo Lastimosa, meanwhile, banners the PC Gilmore Wizards in the 12 noon opener against a RnW Pacific Pipes squad led by former PBL MVP Vic Manuel.
“I’m a new coach and this is a new challenge for me,” said Topex Robinson, the former Alaska guard debuting as head coach of the Pacific Pipes.
PBA commissioner Chito Salud and chair Rene Pardo will lead officials in welcoming the amateur league’s pioneering ballclubs during the 11 a.m. opening ceremony.
Calling the shots for the Dragons is San Beda coach Frankie Lim, who’s bringing the nucleus that powered his Lions to an 18-game NCAA season sweep last year.
San Beda stalwarts Garvo Lanete, Rome de la Rosa, Dave Marcelo, Anthony Semerad and MVP Sudan Daniel spearhead Maynilad’s bid against a Cobra side expected to rely heavily on former University of the East star Paul Lee.
The Wizards, meanwhile, expect to see energy from their young crew led by St. Benilde guard Lastimosa, the nephew of PBA great and Alaska assistant coach Jojo Lastimosa.
“He’s one of the best players in the NCAA right now, so we are hoping he can bring his act to a new level,” said PC Gilmore team owner Avelino Relucio.
Wizards coach Richard del Rosario will also bank on Mapua’s Allan Mangahas, JRU’s Jay Agas and Letran’s Franz Dysam. Jasmine Payo, Phil. Daily Inquirer
