Jeff: Aces good bunch for would-be taker

MANILA, Philippines — Their “Alas-Dance” over, coach Jeff Cariaso is hoping and praying for his youthful but competitive crew to get another run at PBA glory under a new banner.

“I hope they see the team that we’re starting to build,” Cariaso said after Alaska took its final bow as an illustrious member of Asia’s first play-for-pay league last Saturday.

“I think this team just needs a few tweaks here and there. Kulang pa ng isa, dalawang pyesa. But our young vets are learning to play more consistently and stepping up in big games. I hope there’s someone who is willing to take a risk with this team,” he added.

Cariaso’s charges had played the last four weeks burdened with the fact it was the franchise’s last tournament after 35 seasons. Still, the Aces soldiered on, made the quarterfinals as No. 7 seed and forced No. 2 NLEX to a do-or-die for a semifinal seat before eventually bowing out with a 96-80 loss.

The Alaska management is currently in deep talks with prospective franchise buyers. Reports say a telecoms service provider, a food/beverage conglomerate and a canned food processor are in play.

“If that (sale) happens, that’s great because the priority is the players. I want them to have at least an opportunity or a chance to be part of the same team but maybe a different name kung matutuloy yun,” said Cariaso, who started his playing career as Alaska’s first-round selection in the 1995 rookie draft.

Cariaso said he and his coaching staff are open to assuming the same roles if the new team owner sees fit.

“Bahala na ang bibili if we’re going to be part of that. But the whole pizzazz, I think the future is bright. We just need to sharpen the tools, be better in big games. Sayang, what we’ve built already,” he said.