Derby Ace fields new import vs E-Painters

MANILA, Philippines – Its bid for a second crown this season in danger, B-Meg Derby Ace tries to resuscitate its sagging 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference campaign by fielding in a new import against Rain or Shine in tonight’s Game 4 at the Cuneta Astrodome.

The Llamados parade Tony Washam, a 6’7 veteran of the Israeli National League as they seek to prevent the Elasto Painters, now enjoying a 2-1 lead, from clinching the best-of-five showdown and reaching the semis against the San Miguel Beermen.

A former St. Vincent College star and owner of two championships in Israel, the 28-year-old Washam is reported to be a “proven scorer” (30.1 points per game in the playoffs) and an “athletic small forward” who would likely fit the “playoff-level” reinforcement the Llamados need at this point.

He replaced Clif Brown, under whose leadership Derby Ace lost back-to-back games, 69-79 and 111-117, after winning the series opener of the quarters, 108-102.

If he proves good as advertised, Washam is expected to boost the reigning Philippine Cup champion’s scoring and rebounding stock, especially with skipper Kerby Raymundo and Marc Pingris doubtful for the second straight game. Raymundo is out with an injury in his right knee while Pingris suffers from a slight tear in his left thigh.

Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra looks to level its own series against Alaska.

The crowd darlings come into the 5 p.m. tussle fresh from a morale-boosting 91-87 triumph that kept them alive and extended the series after the Aces seized a 2-0 headway.