Munti, Pasig face off for Hoopla plum

MANILA, Philippines - Muntinlupa and Pasig clash in sudden death today for the inaugural Coca-Cola Hoopla basketball crown with the former hoping to wrap it up at home at the Muntinlupa Sports Center.

Game time is set at 6 p.m.

Muntinlupa snatched the proverbial homecourt edge by beating Pasig, 86-76, at the Pasig Sports Center last Thursday and forcing the winner-take-all match.

The champion will bring home a cash prize of P250,000 with the runner-up settling for P125,000. Caloocan received P75,000 for placing third while Makati got P50,000 for fourth.

Expected to watch the final are Mayor Aldrin San Pedro and Coca-Cola PBA governor JB Baylon and Coke’s company president from nearby Alabang.

“The boys are determined to win the title. They are all in high spirits and fired up. We cannot afford to lose the game in our own turf,” said Muntinlupa coach Siegfried Levita.

“If we play the same game like we did the last time there’s no reason why we can’t win the title,” said Levita.

Ace gunner Kevin Racal, who averages in double figure, is expected to spearhead Muntinlupa’s offensive along with Piper Tan, Karl Salvador, Kevin Buenaflor and Avib Minoc.

Pasig coach Edward Medina, however, remains optimistic of their chances.

Tipped to lead Pasig’s title bid are Mark Julius Pinili, Ranniel Nudo, Elmer Labis, Martin Fajardo and the Baylen brothers Jigo and Jeric.