Magnolia Purewater has Tigers in its tank

Magnolia Purewater, formerly San Mig Coffee, is hoping to cash in on its tie-up with 2006 UAAP champion University of Santo Tomas when it seeks to end a three-year title drought in the 2009 PBL PG Flex Linoleum Cup to unfold on Nov. 8 at the Ynares Sports Center in Pasig City.

The Water Purifiers have picked up Dylan Ababou, Chester Tolomia and Khasim Mirza from the Tigers’ roster to strengthen an already talented cast headed by Al Magpayo, Neil Raneses, Ford Arao and John Paul Alcaraz.

“We lost some good players to the PBA but thankfully, we got some new talents to fill the void,” said Magnolia coach Koy Banal, whose biggest star Bon Bon Custodio was picked up by sister company San Miguel Beer in the pros.

Of the trio, the 6-3 Ababou, who was part of the Harbour Centre team that won a historic five-peat feat last conference, looked the most impressive as he brings with him his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.

And Ababou will now have his time to shine after playing in the shadows of the likes of three-time MVP Jason Castro and Sol Mercado at Harbour and Jervy Cruz at UST.

“I’m sure he will play a major role in Magnolia’s title bid, it’s his time to shine,” said UST assistant coach Beaujing Acot of the high-leaping and prolific Ababou.

Magnolia also acquired Neil Pascual and Jonathan Banal, Koy Banal’s son, from the Mapua Cardinals. That should all the more improve its chances of halting the Batang Pier’s bid for a sixth straight title.

And a little more interesting too, considering that Banal, who steered Far Eastern U and San Beda to UAAP and NCAA championships, would have the chance to coach his son Jonathan in the PBL.

Jomel Losentes, Paul Sorongon and Philippine Christian U standout Lizstian Amparado are the other members of the Water Purifiers’ roster.