Newcomer Flying V faces Cignal in D-League opener

Games today

3 p.m. – Gamboa Coffee Mix vs Zark’s Burger

5 p.m. – Cignal vs Flying V

MANILA, Philippines - Cignal kicks off its bid for a season sweep against newcomer Flying V while two other teams make their debut in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup which starts today at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

With a virtually new squad, Cignal coach Boyet Fernandez admits the Hawkeyes will be in a tough campaign for their back-to-back title bid given the strength of the field this conference.

“This will be a completely different conference for us. It will be another tough conference for us, but we’re all excited,” said Fernandez.

Jason Perkins, Pamboy Raymundo and Davon Potts remain Cignal’s main core with support expected to come from new recruits Raymar Jose of FEU and former San Beda playmaker Dan Sara.

Fernandez, however, is bracing for a tough fight against the Jeron Teng-led Flying V side in their 5 p.m. face-off.

“With Jeron in their lineup and coach Eric (Altamirano) handling the team, this is a very strong and tough matchup for us. But we will be ready,” said Fernandez.

Aside from Teng, the Thunder will lean on ex-pros Eric Salamat, Jerick Cañada, and Gab Banal as they try to make an impact right at the start of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Leo Avenido gets his first crack at coaching as he tries to steer the Gamboa Coffee Mix against Zark’s Burger in the 3 p.m. opener.

Joining Avenido in Gamboa are ex-pros Val Acuña, Jens Knuttel, and Marcy Arellano while Robbie Celiz and James Mangahas will lead the Jawbreakers.