Duel for D-League solo lead

The Cagayan Valley Rising Suns and the Zambales M-Builders gun for the solo lead when they collide today even as three other squads kick off their campaign in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.

After posting a hard-earned victory over Cafe France without some of their key players, the Rising Suns will troop to the Arellano Gym in full force against fellow opening-day winner M-Builders at 4 p.m.

Done playing for their collegiate teams, John Pinto, Prince Caperal, Michael Mabulac and Ken Ighalo will join forces with rookie Don Trollano, whose explosive 22-point, 11-rebound effort helped propel Cagayan Valley to an 83-74 win against Cafe France.

“I thought we’re just lucky to win our first game,” said Cagayan Valley coach Alvin Pua. “We’re short-handed and still lack chemistry. Hopefully, we’ll be able to play a lot better with our collegiate players.”

M-Builders also launched their bid on a high note following a 79-73 victory over Derulo Accelero. Jett Vidal saved the day for the

M-Builders with 21 points, highlighted by four threes in the final period.

“The team is just three weeks old and we’re still groping for form,” said Zambales coach Junel Mendiola. “We’re still trying to know each other but we’ll try to give Cagayan a hard time.”

Derulo Accelero aims to bounce back against Boracay Rum, which will play Filipino-Italian rookie Chris Banchero, the former Asian Basketball League MVP, at 2 p.m.

Banco De Oro and Jumbo Plastic will start their season at 12 noon.

“Chris has been a great energy guy and a positive influence to his teammates,” said Boracay coach Lawrence Chongson. “He’s very coachable and very determined to help the team win.”