UV, USC debut in Filoil Flying V Cup

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu-based teams University of Visayas Green Lancers and the University of San Carlos Warriors make their long-awaited debut in the Filoil Flying V Hanes Premier Cup today at the San Juan Arena.

UV, the current Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Incorporated champion, will be playing the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta in the main game at 4 pm, while USC takes on Jose Rizal University at 12:30 p.m.

Felix “Donbel” Belano, a 10-year PBA alumnus known for his lengthy stint with Talk ‘N Text, is on his third year of coaching the UV Green Lancers. Belano will count on two players who were instrumental in leading UV to last year’s CESAFI title to lead his Manila campaign in 5’7” point guard John Abad, the CESAFI Finals MVP, and 6’5” power forward Wowie Escosio, who is the first ever rookie/MVP of CESAFI during the 2012 season.

USC is coached by another 10-year PBA veteran in Junthy Valenzuela, who played on those overachieving Red Bull teams under Yeng Guiao. The Warriors, who finished third in last season’s CESAFI tourney, are led by former Ateneo Blue Eaglet Izak Kiefer Lim, Anthony Romaguera, Victor Rabat and Ahmed Salihou.

The Perpetual Help Altas are on their third year under Aric del Rosario, who hopes his veterans will step up now that Nigerian scoring sensation Nosa Omorogbe has used up his playing eligibility. The Altas will count on Scottie Thompson, Harold Arboleda, Cris Elopre, Justine Alano and Juneric Baloria.

Veteran shooter Philip Paniamogan and bruising power forward Michael Mabulac will lead the Vergel Meneses-coached JRU Heavy Bombers. Joining them are newcomers Abdul Razak, their 6’8” Ghanaian reinforcement, and Jordan dela Paz. — Philstar.com (FREEMAN)