RoS, SMB face off; Warriors make debut

MANILA, Philippines - Season 39 two-time finalist Rain or Shine and perennial title contender San Miguel Beer test each other’s mettle while NLEX takes its turn to make a PBA debut against Globalport in the second playdate of the 2014-15 Philippine Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum today.

Action swings over to the Big Dome following the blockbuster Season 40 inaugurals at the Philippine Arena marked by victories by Kia Motors and Barangay Ginebra over Blackwater and Talk n Text, respectively.

The Road Warriors hope to match the Sorento’s feat against the Elite although they will have to do it sans head coach Boyet Fernandez, who is still tied up with the San Beda Red Lions in the NCAA finals.

To do the job is Adonis Tierra assisted by Jojo Lastimosa, Sandy Arespacochaga, Raymund Celis, Claiford Arao, Gino Manuel and Jay Serrano.

They will be up against the Globalport team that finally unveils Fil-Am top draft pick Stanley Pringle.

“I’m looking for consistency and composure,” said Globalport coach Pido Jarencio, hoping to carry their winning record in the preseason to the season proper.

While still waiting for their rookie draftees from the NCAA, Globalport will make do with a roster headed by team captain Alex Cabagnot, sophomore guard Terrence Romeo and other key players Yancy de Ocampo, Ronjay Buenafe, Noy Baclao and Keith Jensen.

They tangle with the NLEX team backstopped by the former core group of Air21 led by Asi Taulava, Mac Cardona, Jonas Villanueva, Aldrech Ramos, Mark Borboran and Wynne Arboleda.

Pitting much formidable lineups are Rain or Shine and San Miguel Beer.

“This game will determine how far we’ve gone in our training,” said new San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria.

“San Miguel Beer has always been considered a favorite with a powerhouse lineup. I would say yes if we’re given a little more time,” Austria also said. “We’re starting out with a new system. We’re still working on a lot of things and it’s not easy.”

Rain or Shine is returning with a solid, intact lineup playing a tested winning system under coach Yeng Guiao.

Gilas players Jeff Chan, Gabe Norwood, Paul Lee and Beau Belga banner the team that introduces only one new face in rookie Jericho Cruz.

“Gamay na gamay sa bawat isa yang team na ‘yan,” said Austria.