December 13, 2017

PBA D-League: Banal downplays Skippers' newfound status

Marinerong Pilipino coach Koy Banal downplayed his team's newfound status as the heavy favorite in the PBA D-League Aspirants' Cup despite winning big in the draft by selecting three well-known players from the UAAP.

The Skippers nabbed University of the East star Alvin Pasaol in the second round before taking La Salle's Abu Tratter in the fourth round and Vince Tolentino of UAAP champion Ateneo in the fifth round of the draft held Tuesday at the PBA Cafe in Metrowalk, Ortigas.

Banal, who steered Marinerong Pilipino to an unlikely semifinal run in its maiden appearance in the Foundation Cup, said his team will be up against teams expected to have little time gaining their strides in the tournament which opens Jan. 18.

"Wala na silang problema sa chemistry. They've been with their coach since day one and mahirap tibagin yun," Banal said, referring to the school-based rosters that will mostly composed the 13-team lineup for the Aspirants' Cup. "Sa amin talagang mag-eexert kami ng maraming effort para mabuo."

The UAAP and NCAA champion coach, however, is welcoming the selections of the three players as their potential additions could help the veteran-laden Marinero side match up with their younger opponents.

Sponsored content:
Banal has retained the services of former PBA veteran Mark Isip, ex-Jose Rizal University standout John Lopez and point guards Achie Inigo and Renzo Subido.

"Icoconsiderer mo yung makakalaban mo which is collegiate teams, so we need those young legs to be able to keep up with our opponents na young legs din," he said. (JT)