Hapee, Sunkist eye share of lead vs rivals

Defending titlist Hapee Toothpaste and Sunkist-UST seek to join Welcoat Paints and Viva-FEU on top as the two clash with Lee Pipes-Ateneo and Montana Pawnshop, respectively, today in the second PBL Unity Cup at the Makati Coliseum.

Both riding the crest of impressive victories in their initial outing, the Teeth Sparklers clash with the Eagles at 2 p.m. while the Tigers go up against the more experienced Jewelers at 4 p.m.

With Jeff Napa, formerly of Viva, and Clark Moore leading the way, Hapee edged Montana, 68-61, to jumpstart its title-retention bid while Sunkist-UST leaned on the prolific Jemal Vizcarra to smother Lee Pipes, 79-65, in Sunday’s opener.

And Hapee coach Junel Baculi is excited to play against his former players–Larry Fonacier, LA Tenorio, JC Intal and former Talk N’ Text reserve Niño Gelig.

"Former players? Kaya ‘yan," were the first words uttered by Baculi, who owns a total of seven titles including three for the Lamoiyan franchise, when asked of his feelings playing his former wards.

And although the Teeth Sparklers are considered one of the fancied teams despite losing majority of their players, Baculi said he is still not satisfied with the way his team performed in their first outing.

"I’m not satisfied with our first game. The team still needs improvement to challenge good teams," said Baculi.

Lee Pipes, for its part, continue to have some problems as its frontline further deteriorated with injuries to 6’6" Paolo Bugia and 6’6" Marlon Basco.

Bugia will be out for another two weeks after undergoing operation on his meniscus while Basco, formerly of Montana, fractured his hand in a match against Sunkist-UST.

"We will be minus another big guy so we have to play well," Lee Pipes mentor Sandy Arespacochaga said. "We hope to make it all up with hustle and a great defense."