Bakers begin D-L defense versus rookie Aguilas Monday

HOPING to stick to what works in the past, Cafe France kicks off its bid for a second straight title with a virtually intact lineup in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Monday.

The Bakers, still mentored by Egay Macaraya, test league newcomer Mindanao Aguilas at 2 p.m. at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Phoenix Petroleum-Far Eastern University, another debuting team, takes on Wangs Basketball in the second game at 4 p.m.

The winners will join opening-day victors Caida Tiles and University of the Philippines-QRS/Jam Liner for the early lead.

The Bakers hope to duplicate their unlikely title run in the Foundation Cup with Alvin Abundo, Samboy de Leon, Rod Ebondo and Aaron Jeruta at the helm.

Admittedly the underdogs, the Aguilas aim to come out competitive and showcase their skilled players from the region.

The Aguilas have nine players from Mindanao and also tapped Filipino-Canadian guard Taylor Wetherell.

“What we want is to give opportunities to those players from Mindanao to play here in Manila,” said Rolando Navarro Jr., one of the Aguilas’ team owners.

The Accelerators will be bannered by Mac Belo, Mike Tolomia and Roger Pogoy who delivered heavily for FEU when the Tamaraws captured the UAAP title last year. FEU coach Nash Racela will serve as consultant.