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Denok Miranda is set to make his hardcourt return for Marinerong Pilipino.
The Skippers are leaving no stones unturned ahead of the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup playoffs as they beefed up their guard rotation with the activation of the former 12-year PBA veteran.
Miranda, 35, last played for Blackwater but was left unsigned prior to the start of the season.
He reunited with coach Koy Banal this conference in Marinerong Pilipino, serving as an assistant coach as he worked with guards like Rian Ayonayon, Billy Robles, Renzo Subido, Joseph Terso, and Achie Iñigo.
RELATED: Miranda, Isip bring leadership to Marinerong Pilipino
But with the conference shifting to high gear in the playoffs, Banal saw the need for Miranda to help the two-seed Skippers move past the semifinals.
“We need more stability when it comes to leadership. He’ll be able to guide and teach the players, especially the young ones. It’s like having another coach on the floor,” the soft-spoken mentor said.
Marinerong Pilipino isn’t the lone team making moves before the playoffs.
Che’Lu Bar and Grill-San Sebastian bolstered its roster as it acquired Jeff Viernes, Jay-R Taganas, and Cedrick Ablaza in lieu of Aaron Jeruta, Kent Lao, and Allan Santos.
Top seed Akari-Adamson activated Jasper Longalong for Kurt Lojera, and Centro Escolar University also brought up Jordan Intic for Jason Opiso.
The 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup quarterfinals begin on Tuesday at Pasig Sports Center, where Che’Lu-San Sebastian takes on Gamboa-St. Clare, while CEU battles Zark’s-Lyceum. The Revellers and the Scorpions own twice-to-beat advantage in their respective series.