
PBA 36th ALL-FILIPINO CUP
MANILA—It’s height versus speed when the comebacking Meralco Bolts take on Ginebra in the opening of the 36th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) All-Filipino Cup at the Araneta Coliseum today.
Veterans Asi Taulava and Marlou Aquino, who are both 6’9”, will spearhead Meralco.
Jay-Jay Hilterbrand, Willie Miller and Mark Caguioa are the main sparkplugs for the Ginebra Kings. Officials are hoping the fans will come in hordes wearing orange or red in support of their team.
A lavish opening rite is expected to usher in the first day of the tournament at 4 p.m. It will be followed by the Meralco and Ginebra game at 6 p.m.
Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio said he would not be expecting much from the 37-year-old Taulava, because the behemoth 2003 MVP is under medication due to high fever.
“His condition is my concern, but definitely he will play,” said Gregorio, who was selected as Coach of the Year by the PBA Press Corps recently.
Aside from Taulava and the 38-year-old Aquino, Gregorio will also rely on veterans Mark Cardona, Nelbert Omolon, Gabby Espinas, Dennis Daa, Beau Belga, Yuosif Aljamal and John Paul Escobal.