Tribu 5 starts title defense in Hindang today

The Sirlitz/Skygo-backed Tribu Sugbu, fresh from topping the NBC pre-season tournament in Antipolo City, hopes to continue its winning run as it takes on Hindang Selection today at the start of the Hilongos Open Invitational Basketball Tournament at the Hilongos Multi-Purpose Gym.

Being the defending champion, Tribu Sugbu is still considered the heavy favorite to retain the title. Tipped to challenge Tribu Sugbu for the championship are Hindang sponsored by Roy Jumao-as Jr., host Hilongos Selection, and last year's losing finalist Cindy's Tacloban.

Tribu Sugbu will parade Bernie Ursal, and UV's Mark Ababon and Areil Mepaña, who will fill in the slots of Maui Huelar, Gaylord Santos, Kim Calo, and Francis Sanz. Expected to lead Tribu Sugbu's campaign though are reigning NBC MVP Chris Nicdao, Philip Butel and the 6-foot-9 Don Yabut, who will play alongside Doroteo Almacin, Alex Cainglet, Ronaldo Bucao, Miguelito Ducay, Randy Sevilla and Marvin Mercado.

Unfortunately, Tribu coach Al Solis can't be with the team as he will coach the Athletes for Christ in Excellent Service (ACES) ballclub in a two-day goodwill games at the Silliman University gym in Dumaguete city.

In Solis' absence, it will be his cousin Armand Colina who will call the shots for the team with Gaga Cabanilla as his assistant.

The Cebuano visitors are partly sponsored by the Gabisan Shipping in the Hilongos caging.

The Hindang Selection will be beefed up by Mike Almonte and Rondyll Roncal, while the Hilongos Selection is powered by hometown hero Gerry Lavidez, a Tribu Sugbu discard, and commercial veteran Marvin Tundag, who formerly played with Hapee Toothpaste.

The tournament serves as one of the highlights of Hindang's town fiesta celebration on December 21-22.