NLEX, Cafe France seek No. 2

MANILA, Philippines - Defending champion NLEX and Café France shoot for their second straight victory and a share of the lead as they play RnW Pacific Pipes and Big Chill, respectively, in the PBA D-League Foundation Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The Road Warriors and the Bakers opened their campaign via blowouts with the former beating Big Chill, 80-70, and the latter thumping newcomer Erase Plantcenta, 74-57, making them the favorites to notch their second win in a row.

NLEX and Pacific Pipes clash at 4 p.m. after the 2 p.m. showdown between Café France and Big Chill.

NLEX coach Boyet Fernandez said his chargers are coming into the game motivated to win.

“I kept telling my players that we are just as good as our last game so we have to try to win as many games as we could,” Fernandez said.

Pacific Pipes lost its opening game by 21 points against Blackwater.

“I’m sure Pacific Pipes will be a lot better when we play them and we expect our hands full,” Fernandez said.

Calvin Abueva, who had 20 points and 18 rebounds against Big Chill, is expected to lead the defending champions again along with Chris Ellis, Clifford Hodge and the 6-9 center Ian Sanggalang.

Café France also expects tough duel with Big Chill, which made an impact last conference by making the semifinal of the Aspirants’ Cup and nearly bouncing NLEX in the best-of-three series.

“It will be tough. I just hope what we have accomplished in our first game would inspire the players and motivate them to perform better every game,” said Café France coach Egay Macaraya.

The Super Chargers are out to bounce back and give their new coach a rousing welcome.

Robert Sison, who called the shots for Montana and Teletech in the now defunct Philippine Basketball League, debuts as Big Chill coach after the team’s owner parted ways with coach Arsenio Dysangco.

Arsensio reportedly incensed the owner following an unpleasant discussion with his boss shortly after their heartbreaking defeat to the Road Warriors.