That’s because the Detergent Kings will be parading an intact line-up led by speedy Egay Billiones, lanky Mel Crisostomo, Edwin Bacani, Arnold Calo and Francis Sanz.
And coach Nat Canson beefed up his line-up with the addition of veteran point Jun Canoneo, Marlon Kalaw and three University of Manila Hawks – Marlon Legaspi, 6’6 Roger Daliva and 6’4 power forward Michael Tolentino.
Completing the team are three-point shooter Eric de la Cuesta, William Marasigan, Joel Bona, Noel David and Arnie Canoza.
"This is a better line-up than last conference. Mas experienced, mas talented. We don’t have many stars like other teams, pero itong line-up na ito eh hindi kaagad bumibigay sa pressure games," explained Canson.
Canson admits he doesn’t have any dominant big man but hopes to compliment that disadvantage with speed, defense and experience.
The Detergent Kings, who wound up third last conference, proved that point when they clinched the first Athlete’s Haven Cup in Baguio where they beat the much-taller and talent-laden three-peat champion Welcoat Paints.
"It was a big morale-boosting victory for us. Napatunayan nila sa sarili nila na kaya rin pala nilang pumasok sa finals. With that, papasok kami na confident ang team," Canson related.
"Walang stars, because my emphasis is on teamwork. We’re working on it. I don’t expect the new recruits to shine on the first few games but I’m sure they’ll improve as the conference goes on," he added.
With the entry of La Salle-Osaka Iridologists and Ateneo-Pioneer Insurance plus the build-up of other teams, Canson expects this conference to be the toughest in years.