Texters open title defense vs Painters; RP faces BK

MANILA, Philippines - Talk n Text, the reigning champion which spent time and resources abroad in preparation for a title repeat, starts its quest against Rain or Shine today in the third playdate of the KFC PBA Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

The Tropang Texters are raring to show their form in their 7:30 p.m. match with the Elasto Painters, coming from a punishing off-season grind that saw them play tough teams in the United States, Serbia and Australia.

TnT coach Chot Reyes said they need the best preparation they could have, since all teams will try to foil their bid to be the first team to repeat as all-Filipino champion in over two decades.

Smart Gilas plays its first game as a guest team in the tourney, going up against Burger King at 2:30 p.m. then Sta. Lucia Realty and Coca-Cola clash at 5 p.m.

Japeth Aguilar is rejoining the RP developmental team after strutting his stuff for a game with Burger King – the team that made him the No. 1 pick overall in the recent PBA draft.

The Aguilar controversy has got a final closure as he signed with BK then was traded to Talk n Text which then loaned him to Smart Gilas.

Meanwhile, Dennis Espino will make first appearance with his new team ranged curiously against his former ballclub when Coke faces off with Sta. Lucia.

The Tigers underwent a massive buildup in the off-season also acquiring the services of Chris Ross, Ken Bono, Francis Allera, Marvin Cruz, Larry Rodriguez, Norman Gonzales and Wesley Gonzales.

The Realtors had their own overhaul, giving away Espino, Gonzales and Denok Miranda among others to pave the way for the entry of Ardy Larong, Joshua Urbiztondo, Gabby Espinas, Jason Misolas, Charles Waters, Chris Pacana and Mark Benitez.