MANILA, Philippines - Despite their edge in depth and talent, the Philippine Patriots remain wary of the Brunei Barracudas when they clash at the resumption of the Asean Basketball League (ABL) at The Arena in San Juan on Saturday.
For one, the Barracudas boast of a pair of towering American imports, who could pose a real challenge to the Filipino cagers seeking their third win in four starts in the six-nation tournament.
Brunei has also three former PBA players in Leo Avenido, Don Camaso and Kiko Adriatico and is being handled by coach Bong Ramos.
“That’s our problem right now, they have at least an idea on how we run our offense and defense. Thus it’s imperative for us to play real tough defense,” said Patriots coach Louie Alas, who noted the Barracudas progressed well in a span of three weeks.
The Barracudas have a 1-2 record, losing twice to the league-leading Singapore Slingers.
Unlike the first time they clashed, however, the Barracudas battled the Slingers on even terms before dropping an 80-82 setback.
The Barracudas, behind imports Lonnis Jones and Michael Pilgrim, blasted the Kuala Lumpur Dragons.
“After losing by a huge margin in their first game, they mauled the Malaysians in their next outing and they almost beat the Slingers the second time they met,” said Alas.
He expects the Barracudas to use their advantage at the post and hope that Camaso and Avenido make their perimeter shots.
The Patriots-Barracudas upcoming match also serves as an opportunity for new recruits Ateneo’s Nonoy Baclao and University of the East’s Elmer Espiritu to prove their worth.
The two forwards combined for 15 points, 10 blocks and nine rebounds that impressed team owners Mikee Romero of Harbour Centre and businessman Tony Boy Cojuangco.
“We’re going to see a lot more from them,” said Romero.