La Salle-Osaka faces PBL titlist Welcoat

A battle of three-peat champions.

Three-time UAAP defending champion La Salle-Osaka Iridology tests its wares in its debut against three-peat PBL titlist Welcoat Paints today at the resumption of the 2000 PBL Challenge Cup at the Makati Coliseum.

Game time is at 5:30 p.m.

Montana Pawnshop also eyes its second straight victory when it collides with Ana Freezers at 3:30 p.m.

Coach Franz Pumaren is hopeful that even without Ren-Ren Ritualo, the Iridologists would create an impact on their debut confidence behind the core of BJ Manalo, Ramon Jose, Raymond Magsumbol, three-point shooters Ronald Cuan and Alvin Castro, Miguel Gozum, center Manuel Ramos, Adonis Sta. Maria and forward William Joel Wilson.

Reinforcing the team are PCU big men Nelbert Omolon and Bernzon Franco and veterans Jay Torres, Michael Bravo, Richard de la Rosa and Dante Barredo.

"I believe this is a very talented team but we don’t expect much on our maiden conference since we’re playing against more experienced squads," said Pumaren who’s not new in the PBL scene as he started his coaching career with Magnolia in the early 90s.

"To win a couple of upsets, probably against Welcoat or Shark, will be quite an achievement for us," he added.