Ex-pros spice up Mindanao Basketball League

MANILA, Philippines – Former professional players will suit up for eight teams from different provinces in the first Mindanao Basketball League (MBL) Fiesta Pilar Cup starting on October 2 at the Golden Boys Gym in Zamboanga City.

The General Santos Kings will be bannered by former PBA 7-footer EJ Feihl, former Kia player Rene Pacquiao and Louie Medalla; while Roxas Zanorte of Mayor Jan Vallacer will be led by ex-Rain or Shine guard Hercules Tangkay.

The other teams are the Pagadian Explorers of Rene Pamaran, Ayala, Sindangan of Mayor Insik Sy, ZC Omars, Zamboanga Mudz and Basilan BRT of Vice Mayor Julz Hataman.

Former University of the East player Gino Jumaoas and ex-Letran bruiser Jonathan Belorio will suit up for ZC Omars; while former Kia guard Jonathan Pareno will play for Zamboanga Mudz.

“As we all know this is the first time again to have a league in Mindanao. Our region has produced a lot of players like Mark Barroca, PJ Simon, RR Garcia and Mac Belo. That’s why we are forming this League to produce more talents in Mindanao and the fans love it,” said league commissioner Jayson Cariaga.

One import per team is allowed.

The purpose of this league is to promote the sports to the youth and fight drug addiction.

The tournament is sponsored by LM Metro Hotel, HELL Energy Drink, RF Mariano, OSHIS Restaurant, EMedia, Rhamifm, ZC Kings Manpower, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, Lilia Nuno, and councilors Lilibeth Nuno, Boday Cabato, Teody Arquiza and Pinpin Pareja.