RP Patriots host three ABL rivals

MANILA, Philippines - After splitting their two road games in the ASEAN Basketball League, the Philippine Patriots play host to three rivals, including an expected grudge match with the league-leading Singapore Slingers on Nov. 7.

The RP cagers prime up for that keenly awaited encounter as they take on the Thailand Tigers on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig. They meet the Brunei Barracudas on Oct. 31.

The Patriots, handled by assistant coaches Bogs Adornado and Ryan Dy, toppled the Indonesia’s Satria Muda Britama squad in the league’s inaugurals two weeks ago but fell to the Singapore Slingers, 69-74, in Singapore last Sunday.

“It’s a good relief for the boys, they need a break from too much traveling. They’re getting weary,” said RP Patriots team manager Erick Arejola. “Of course, we also like to enjoy the thrill of playing before our home fans.”

Arejola believes local fans will give the Patriots – co-owned by Harbour Centre CEO Mikee Romero and TV-5 (formerly ABC-5) owner Tony Boy Cojuangco – a different feeling and motivation.

“I hope all basketball fans in Metro Manila and other nearby provinces will come and support the RP Patriots. This tournament is very exciting because of its home-and-away format,” said Romero.

The game on Sunday will also mark the first time that coach Louie Alas will handle the team after missing the first two games due to his commitment with Letran, which was then preparing for the NCAA Final Four.