AMA faces Wang’s in DL opener

MANILA, Philippines - Coach Mark Herrera of newcomer AMA University said the Titans will go all out to make a good showing as they make their debut against an experienced Wang’s Ball Club in the PBA D- League Aspirants Cup which opens today at the Ynares Arena in Pasig. 

The Titans face Wang’s at 4 p.m. following the opening game between Cafe France and MP Hotel at 12 noon and Cebuana Lhuillier and Racal Motorsales Corp. at 2 p.m.

“I think we have a fighting chance,” said Herrera, who has handled most of his players from way back. “Alam ko ang kilos ng players ko and they know my system so chemistry is not a problem.”

Herrera, who is concurrently AMA athletic director, is fully supported by team owner Amable Aguiluz and AMA vice president Arnel Hibo in his bid to give the university a decent finish in the semi-pro league.

His team includes old hands Ian Macaranas, Jayson Jordan, Biboy Santiago, Michael Malones, Jezer Calma, Ivan Camasura, Joseph Eriobu, Jezmar Sabangan, Bobby Balucanan, Fil-Am Jowan Ferdy, Michael Olivares, JayR Taganas and Rizalde Angeles.

“It’s a good match-up. I think our experience will be the key,” said Wang’s coach Pablo Lucas who will be relying on veterans Mark Acosta, Rocky Acidre, Michael Juico, Michael Miranda and Vincent Importante.

Café France coach Egay Macaraya is optimistic about their campaign this season as the Bakers make their debut against MP Hotel Warriors at 12 noon.

“We have a pretty good team so I really like our chances this season,” Macaraya said.

Macaraya kept the core of last season’s team and beefed up his roster by snatching Fil-Ams Maverick Ahanmisi and Jonar Huertas, Yutien Andrada and Tim Habelito from the draft.

“I have no idea what type of team we are up against. We haven’t seen them (MP Hotel) play. But I think we have a slight advantage with our experience. Our picks provide us with some depth but chemistry is still something that we have to work on. So far we’re doing well in practice,” Macaraya said.

The 2015 season begins at 11 a.m. with a brief opening ceremony and a parade of the 12 competing teams.