12 teams see action in new D-League tilt

More teams will challenge NLEX’s reign as four new squads recently signed up for the new PBA D-League season starting next month.

Jose Rizal University-Air 21, Arellano University, Informatics and HTC Philippines sent letters of intent to the PBA Commissioner’s Office, making the Aspirants’ Cup conference a 12-team field.

“The intention of these new applicants to be a part of the coming season only goes to show that the league has established a market that is acceptable to our basketball-loving fans,” said PBA commissioner Chito Salud yesterday.

The Road Warriors, who are vying for a fourth straight crown, and the rest of the participating teams have until Sept. 15 to pay the entry fee to confirm their participation.

Also set to see action in this tournament are last conference runner-up Big Chill, Blackwater Sports, Cebuana Lhuillier, Boracay Rum, Cagayan Rising Suns and Erase Plantcenta.

NLEX lost key players to the pro league, but remains a powerhouse with its recruitment of Ateneo stars Greg Slaughter and Nico Salva.

Big Chill also lost its key cogs to the pros, led by third PBA overall draft pick Alex Mallari, but hopes to build another competitive crew.