Wainwright, Mirza head RP Patriots

MANILA, Philippines - UAAP hotshot Khazim Mirza and former PBA star Rob Wainwright will spearhead the Philippine Patriots’ campaign in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Invitational tournament which will have its grand opening on Saturday in Jakarta, Indonesia.

This was jointly announced yesterday by team owners Mikee Romero, CEO of Harbour Centre, and Tony Boy Cojuangco, president of ABC-5, as the team enters the final stage of its preparation for the first regional basketball tournament.

Other members of the team are Froilan Baguion, Christian Coronel, Neil Raneses, Mark Andaya, Ricky Ricafuente, Erwin Sta. Maria, Nat Cruz, Dino Daa and former La Salle star Jerwin Gaco.

Though the team has plenty of options, the main point of its offense will be anchored on Mirza and Wainwright.

Multi-titled Letran coach Louie Alas will call the shots for the Patriots with former PBA superstar Bogs Adornado as one of his assistants.

“Mirza is one of the most underrated players in the UAAP. I like his guts, his game and he moves like a veteran. Besides he has the height and moves,” said Romero.

The 22-year-old Mirza averaged 13.5 points and eight rebounds in his final year with the University of Santo Tomas Tigers in the UAAP.

“Given more playing time, he will become a star in the league,” said Romero.

The Patriots, according to Cojuangco, will be beefed up by two American imports to further strengthen the team.

“This is a well-balanced team in the tradition of Harbour Centre in the PBL,” said Romero. “We have the experience, creativity, toughness and the firepower. It will be a fighting team.”

Romero’s Harbour Centre won seven titles in the PBL.

Romero and team manager Erick Arejola believe the Patriots have what it takes to dominate the six-country tournament.