MANILA, Philippines — Rejigged Alaska starts a new chapter under Jeff Cariaso, going for a flying start for “the Jet” today in the PBA Governors Cup opening salvo against a Columbian side riding on CJ Perez’s Gilas Pilipinas’ breakout.
Cariaso, who took over from Alex Compton last month, gets his baptism of fire as the Aces’ chief tactician in the 4:30 p.m. encounter at the MOA Arena that blasting off hostilities in the season-ending tournament.
Rain or Shine, a semifinalist in both the Philippine Cup and Commissioner’s Cup, and NorthPort, coming off a franchise-best record and No. 2 seeding in the second conference, cap off the Day One twinbill with their clash at 7 p.m.
Cariaso has come full circle at the Alaska franchise after a long-time stint as a player and later as assistant coach.
“I feel good. I’m very excited with the challenge. We know it’s not going to be an easy task, we know the work that has to be put into it,” said Cariaso.
“From being drafted to now being able to coach the team that drafted me, it’s a special and unique situation and I plan on taking advantage of it by putting in the work that needs to be put in and really helping the guys be in a position where they will succeed,” he added.
The Aces pin their hope on University of North Carolina alum Justin Watts as they try to surpass their runner-up finish last year in the import-flavored meet. Cariaso also acquired big man Abu Tratter and guard Maverick Ahanmisi in trades to beef up his personnel.
Dyip mentor Johnedel Cardel, on the other hand, hopes that with Perez carrying over his international vibe and versatile import Khapri Alston doing his role, they can finally pull though this conference.