Jumbo Plastic Linoleum eyes another big finish

MANILA, Philippines - Jumbo Plastic Linoleum will have only four holdovers from the last conference’s semifinals finish but coach Stevenson Tiu remains hopeful they can equal, if not better that performance in the PBA D-League Aspirants Cup which starts today.

Tiu anchored his optimism on the burning desire of his players to experience playing for the ultimate prize and their willingness to sacrifice and share responsibility on and off the court.

“I can see in their eyes their desire to play in the finals that’s why we always have a good practice session,” said Tiu, who is likewise grateful to owner Jimmy dela Cruz for giving his all-out support to the team.

Dela Cruz and his son – Jefferson – are deeply involved in the day-to-day affair of the team, making sure that all players and coaching staff are treated fairly.

“The team is the extended family of my boss that’s why all my players are excited to play and prove their worth,” added Tiu, who will be assisted by former PBA player Joel Dualan, Gonzalo Catalan and Jerson Cabiltes with Horacio Lim as team manager.

While the FEDSEAL-backed Jumbo Plastic Linoleum has only four remnants from the last conference’s squad, the newcomers in the team, led by Letran’s Mark Cruz and Cebuano hotshot Brian Heruela, have what it takes to bring the team to the next level.

“They are new faces in the team but they are veterans and have impressive credentials,” said the younger dela Cruz, who represents the team in the Board. “Since they are all veterans, they can easily adapt to the system of coach Steve.”

Aside from Cruz and Heruela, the other new faces in the top are the sweet-shooting Janus Lozada, bruiser Jan Colina, Robby Celiz, Larry Petilos, Dennis Lee Villamor, Marion Magat, Dexter Maiquez and MacLean Sabelina. Most of  them played for Blackwater Elite for several conferences.

They will join holdovers Krismoir Rosales, Joseph Terso, Jensen Rios and Jaymo Eguilos.

The team boasts of a solid frontcourt crew in 6-foot-7 Magat, 6-foot-6 Eguilos, 6-foot-5 Sabelina and 6-foot-4 Celiz but Tiu insists the team’s success hinges on how their court generals – Cruz, Heruela and Terso – create plays for their teammates come game time.

If his players – especially the new ones – live up to their respective roles, Tiu sees no reason why they can’t mirror their semis showing last conference.