Hapee goes for the solo lead in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup Monday with coach Ronnie Magsanoc acknowledging the tough task of hurdling a team that’s coming off slim losses like the MJM M-Builders.
“They could have won their first two games,” Magsanoc said of the Builders. “I have the highest respect for them.”
The Fresh Fighters try to stay unbeaten in three games against the Builders, who boast a similarly powerhouse lineup, in the 2 p.m. match today at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
MP Hotel aims for a second win in three outings against winless AMA University at 4 p.m, while Wangs takes on the struggling Racal Motors at noon.
The Fresh Fighters boast a cast of amateur standouts led by Ray Parks, Chris Newsome, Arnold Van Opstal, Baser Amer and last conference’s MVP Garvo Lanete.
“It’s a blessing and a challenge to have these names,” Magsanoc said of his star-studded crew, who cruised past Tanduay Light, 73-53, last Thursday.
The Builders, mentored by Nash Racela, have the key cogs of UAAP champion National U and runner-up Far Eastern U as nucleus.