The defending champions will take on eight other teams this season, which include: MDX-Blue Haus, Bayani-Mobil, Visminda-Satbahi, Cabalen-Noni, Namfrel-Proa, UPAA-Docomo, Cavite-Andok’s Grill, and NMBA-Mix Blood.
“We will just do our best, put a lot of heart in every game, and our will to win will be higher than last year,” said Konflikt manager Norman Del Rosario in an email to Variety.
With some players moving to other teams and new age rules in the tournament, the group will be joined by Jawn Joyner, Junar Guiab, Ivan De Vero, and JR Barrios.
De Vero faced the Konflikts as part of MDX-Chow Queen last year but lost twice in the championship series.
Since the end of the 2nd QQ Car Rental Basketball Cup earlier this month, Del Rosario confirmed that core players Elmer Esdrelon and Melvin Capalad will return to action. Meanwhile, Sam Fernandez and Aris Olivos will be coaching the team.
Synergy between veterans and new players may be the Konflikts’ key to victory this time.
“This season will be different from last season because with lots of new players, we will try to find the perfect blend and make it work,” said Del Rosario. “We will still adjust and get used to each other’s style of plays.”
Last year, team Konflikt secured a 95-90 win to oust Chow Queen in their second finals match.
The UFO will start its first of two leagues this Sunday, July 31, 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Basketball Court.
A final meeting for participating teams will be held today, 6 p.m. at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium. Teams must submit their final team rosters and waivers.
On Sunday, the UFO will also award trophies its top three teams from the 3-on-3 Pistang Pinoy Basketball Tournament.
For more information, contact Bong Malasarte at 234-8896 or [email protected] or Boy Ching at 235-6046 or [email protected].
