San Mig, NLEX seek 2nd wins

TITLEHOLDER San Miguel and NLEX shoot for a share of the early lead today when they tangle with teams making their season debuts in the Smart Bro-PBA Philippine Cup at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Beermen hope to follow up their big season debut when they battle a new-look Meralco squad in the 7 p.m. duel, after the Road Warriors seek their best start in four conferences as they face Barako Bull at 4:15 p.m.

Both San Miguel and NLEX are bracing themselves for a surprise as they tangle with teams that underwent major roster changes during the off-season.

While the Beermen only added a few key pieces to the team that won two of the three tournaments last season, Meralco will parade a reloaded squad that includes veteran Jimmy Alapag and the returning Rabeh Al-Hussaini.

The Bolts also picked up free agents Bryan Faundo and Ronjay Buenafe while drafting former Ateneo standout Chris Newsome and San Beda’s Baser Amer.

“We are ready to get going, even though we know it will be tough versus the defending champs,” said Meralco coach Norman Black.

San Miguel got its title defense off to a flying start with a 97-86 triumph over GlobalPort in a road game in Davao City last Saturday.

The Road Warriors are aiming to follow up their 90-86 conquest of Blackwater last Friday.

SAN MIGUEL Beer’s Alex Cabagnot fires a shot against Globalport’s Doug Kramer. PBA IMAGES