Rising Suns seek piece of lead against Warriors

MANILA, Philippines - Cagayan Valley hopes to keep in step with leader Hapee coming off a long break as it collides with MP Hotel even as Jumbo Plastic faces a surging AMA University in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at the Ynares Arena in Pasig City today.

The Rising Suns set out for their first game since hacking out a tough double-overtime 89-84 victory over the Café France Bakers last Nov. 24 but remain the favorite to chalk up their fifth win against the Warriors, who could only turn in a win in five games.

Gametime is at 12 noon. 

The long break should also give Moala Tautuaa, Cagayan’s No. 1 draft pick, the needed time to get used to the physical and rugged games in  the league, particularly against the Warriors.

“The game here is very physical. It’s very different from the Asean Basketball League. I’m not used to being pushed in the back, but I’ll adjust,” said the 6-6 US born Fil-Tongan, who tallied 25 points, seven rebounds and three assists in his debut against the Bakers.

Meanwhile, the resurgent AMA U Titans (3-3) battle the Giants (4-2) at 2 p.m., looking for their fourth win in seven games, while Tanduay Light (1-4) hopes to check its skid against Wangs Basketball (2-2) in their 4 p.m. main game.

The Titans, coached by Mark Herrera,  upended the Bread Story-Lyceum side, 97-89, to post their second straight win and revive their hopes for a quarterfinal berth.

Jay-R Taganas is averaging 13 points and 17 rebounds while Philip Paniamogan and Joseph Eriobu have been norming 19 and 14 points, respectively, the past two games. If the trio stay consistent, chances look good for the Titans against the undermanned Giants.