Hapee goes for solo lead vs winless MJM Builders

MANILA, Philippines - Hapee takes on winless MJM Builders today, seeking to nail down its third straight win and break out of a four-way logjam for the solo lead in the early going of the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup at the Ynares Arena in Pasig City.

Coming off a 73-53 demolition of the Tanduay Light side, the Fresh Fighters are heavily favored to get past the MJM Builders in their 2 p.m. duel although coach Ronnie Magsanoc remains wary of his wards’ chances due to lack of cohesion. 

“We really haven’t had a practice session with a complete lineup because most of the guys still have commitments with their school teams. Right now I’m just relying on their skills level,” said Magsanoc.

The Fresh Fighters did struggle in their first win over newcomer AMA University, 69-61, last Monday but showed a lot of promise when they routed the Rhum Masters last Thursday.

Magsanoc said their immediate goal is to win as many games as they could this early to offset the impending absence of at least seven of his players whose schools (San Beda and National University) are taking part in the Philippine Collegiate Champions League.

Garvo Lanete and Bobby Ray Parks have been averaging 13 and 11 points, respectively, in their first two games and are expected to again figure prominently against the Builders, who have lost their first two games. 

In other matches, Wangs Basketball (1-1) tries to bounce back from a shock loss to unfancied MP Hotel when it takes on Racal Motors (0-2) at 12 noon while MP Hotel (1-1) seeks another win against AMA University (0-2) at 4 p.m.