Blu armed to the teeth for PBL Challenge

After clinching the runner-up trophy in the Chairman’s Cup, Blu All-Purpose will go all out for the elusive first regular PBL crown in the 2002 PBL Challenge Cup kicking off Nov. 4 at the Pasig Sports Complex.

Showing undying spirit and determination in clinching the PBL-CBF crown in Cebu from a 0-3 start, the intact core of Marlon Legaspi, Eric de la Cuesta, Arnold Calo, Lou Gatumbato and Aries Dimaunahan plus new recruits Allan Gamboa and Mike Garcia could be the most dangerous and unpredictable in the nine-team field.

But for coach Leo Isaac, they shouldn’t be resting on their laurels.

"That’s what I told the boys. We should not savor that victory for long and start focusing our minds and energies for the new challenge," said Isaac.

"The PBL CBF meet was a big help in strengthening the mental toughness of the boys. But we should psyche up ourselves for the tougher competition ahead considering the major build-up the other teams did during the off-season."

"We may not have the stars, but their attitude and determination give me the confidence to say that this is the best time for us to win our first PBL regular crown," he added.

Completing the team are Francis Machica, Jacques Gottenbos, John Prior, Gio Coquilla, Mel Latoreno and Tristan Codamon.

Two other teams – ICTSI-La Salle and Dazz Dishwashing Liquid — will be parading tougher line-ups to fortify their quest for the plum.

Contrary to rumors, Mike Cortez will stay as the heart and soul of the ICTSI Archers along with mainstays BJ Manalo, Manny Ramos, Dominic Uy, Bernzon Franco, Mika Vainio and Adonis Sta. Maria.