i TV Pinoy

Source: gmanews.tv

-- Familiar faces will be seen at opposing sides of the court when the Philippine Patriots host the Brunei Barracudas on Saturday in the ASEAN Basketball League at The Arena in San Juan City.

Back on the Philippine hardcourt are former Philippine Basketball Association players Leo Avenido, Don Camaso and Kiko Adriano – who are playing for the Barracudas as Filipino reinforcements.

The three will be backed up by two towering American imports Lonnis Jones and Michael Pilgrim, who combined for 39 points in Brunei’s 94-76 demolition of the Kuala Lumpur Dragons last Oct. 14.

The Barracudas hold a 1-2 record after suffering a heartbreaking 82-80 setback at the hands of the Singapore Slingers.

Hometown fans will also expect familiar coaching styles as Patriots mentor Louie Alas and Barracudas tactician Bong Ramos have almost similar plays and know each other's strengths and weaknesses after steering separate teams in the now defunct league Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA).

Alas coached the 1999 titlists Manila Metrostars while Ramos handled the 2001 champions Batangas Blades in the MBA. Ramos surely is aware of Alas’ offensive and defensive patterns.

“That’s our problem right now. They (Barracudas) have at least an idea how we run our offense and defense. It’s imperative for us to play real tough defense," said Alas.

Alas, the current longest tenured coach in the NCAA, said the Barracudas are a dangerous bunch and have improved dramatically since an opening game 87-69 demolition it received from the Slingers.

“After losing by a huge margin in their first game, they (Barracudas) mauled the Malaysians in their next game and they almost beat the Slingers the second time they met. So they have progressed a lot."

He added that he expects Brunei coach Ramos to use their height advantage inside the paint or try to kick out to a waiting Camaso or Avenido, who will be waiting to take outside attempts. “Just like in the PBA, they will surely take the ball at the post."

Game Saturday
(Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig)
4 p.m. – Patriots vs Barracudas

Alas’ only problem is Patriots 6-foot-10 import Jason Dixon always gets into early foul trouble. “He (Dixon) has to take care of himself since we need him to stop the Brunei imports."

The Patriots are also hoping to get the same numbers from new recruits Nonoy Baclao of UAAP champion Ateneo and Elmer Espiritu of runner up University of the East. The two bruising forwards combined for 15 points, 10 blocks and nine rebounds in the Philippines’ 74-61 win over the Thailand Tigers in their first home game last Sunday.