MANILA, Philippines – Souped-up Marinerong Pilipino can’t wait to plunge back into action for its redemption tour should the PBA be given a go signal to resume operations, including the D-League Aspirants' Cup.
Though everything is still up in the air in light of the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the country, Skippers mentor Yong Garcia is hoping for the developmental tourney to still push through since being put on hold since last March.
“It still depends on the coronavirus crisis but we’re hoping that the Aspirants’ Cup could still be on this year,” Garcia on Tuesday told The STAR amidst the uncertainties hovering over the PBA and other local leagues.
Non-contact sports have already been given green light to slowly resume in most parts of the country but basketball, among other group and contact games, is still a no-go for health and safety concerns according to government advisories.
This led to PBA without any other choice but to wait for its board convention in August to decide whether to scrap the season for good or resume operations with tight health protocols and restrictions.
Should the stars align for the league comeback though, Garcia is beaming with confidence that the reloaded and hungry Skippers could be in for sweet vengeance after having their historic elimination round sweep foiled last year with a finals loss against Basilan-St. Clare.
“We like our chances this year. Our top recruits increased our chances for title contention,” added Garcia as Marinero held a 1-0 record before the tournament suspension.
UAAP Mythical Five member and no. 2 overall pick Jaime Malonzo along with Gilas Pilipinas pool members Juan and Javi Gomez De Liano from UP banner the Skippers.
Veterans Alfred Batino, Jordan Rios, Dhon Reverente and Allan Mangahas also reinforce the only club team in the 12-team D-League cast dominated by school varsities.