Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Cignal HD’s drive for a season sweep gets a much-needed shot in the arm with two marquee signings, while the rest of the field continue their retool in preparation for the 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup.
Raymar Jose, the hardworking forward from Far Eastern University, and former San Beda playmaker Dan Sara will beef up the Hawkeyes this conference, joining Jason Perkins, Pamboy Raymundo, and Davon Potts.
Potts, however, will just be playing for seven games for Cignal HD as he is set to fulfill his obligations with the Red Lions this NCAA Season 93, same with the rest of the collegiate players who wish to play this season.
Last conference’s runner-up Racal was dealt with a huge blow with the departure of its young guns, but coach Jerry Codiñera will still have seasoned vets Allan Mangahas and Roider Cabrera, together with Cebuano up-and-comer Mac Tallo at his disposal to carry his squad.
Tanduay, meanwhile, will parade an intact roster, with ex-pros Jerwin Gaco and Lester Alvarez leading the fight. Also joining the Rhum Masters this conference is burly big man Jay-R Taganas and high-scoring forward Von Tambeling.
CEU Scorpions will bank on their collegiate core, bannered by Rod Ebondo, Aaron Jeruta, and JK Casiño, this time under the guidance of coach Yong Garcia.
Star swingman Jeron Teng has forged partnership with coach Eric Altamirano in newcomer Flying V, as he will see action alongside ex-pros Eric Salamat, Jerick Cañada, and Hans Thiele.
His old crew, AMA Online Education, will parade Tey Teodoro, Renzo Subido, and Andrei Paras leading the fight.
Batangas tries another go-round in the D-League, with Joseph Sedurifa and CJ Isit anchoring the cavalry for coach Eric Gonzales.
Coach Koy Banal makes his much awaited return to the sidelines with Marinerong Pilipino, as he relies on ex-pro Mark Isip, Julian Sargent, and Achie Iñigo to compete this conference.
Leo Avenido also tries his luck in coaching as he will serve as a playing-coach for debuting Gamboa Coffee Mix this conference. Also in his team are ex-pros Val Acuna, Jens Knuttel, and Marcy Arellano.
Also, Robbie Celiz will lead the charge for the Zark’s Jawbreakers, as he will be joined by James Mangahas, Clark Bautista, and Jamil Sheriff.
Wangs Basketball completes its first full season in the D-League, and will be leaning on the leadership of Robbie Herndon and Ryan Arambulo to make some noise this conference.
The 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup tips off on Thursday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.