Italiano’s, Hazchem start strong

MANILA, Philippines — Neophytes Italiano’s Homme and Hazchem prevailed over their respective counterparts for a winning debut in the second day of the PBA Developmental League Foundation Cup yesterday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Despite being undermanned in their first game with only eight players, Italianos’ Homme still took care of business with a 123-107 win over the listless McDavid – La Salle Araneta while the Green Warriors trounced fellow newcomer Naitalk-Savio, 98-78.

Marlon Gozum led the way for the short-handed Italianos’ Homme with 34 points and seven rebounds while former NCAA stalwarts Paolo Pontejos from JRU and Francis Munsayac added 29 and 17 markers, respectively.

Jan Colina piled up a double double of 14 markers and 13 boards much to the delight of head coach Allen Ricardo amidst a still incomplete roster.

“It’s hard to train and play with only few players but that did not stop us,” said Ricardo. “My players have shown their commitment and I’m very happy for that. I just told them that we may be short of men for now but it’s still a five-on-five battle on the court.”

Nigerian slotman Henry Iloka turned in a double-double outing 35 points and 18 rebounds for the Stallions who suffered their second straight loss after a 108-81 opening day loss against TIP.

Earlier, Raymark Matias starred for Hazchem after stuffing the statsheet with 24 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, three steals and a block.