Philippine Sports News and Updates

The Philippine Patriots hope to close out its three-game homestead on a winning note hoping to avenge its last month’s loss to Singapore when they clash with the Slingers Saturday in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) at The Arena in San Juan.

Patriots coach Louie Alas, who has collected titles in the collegiate ranks, is optimistic that the results will be different this time especially with former UAAP Finals MVP Nonoy Baclao allowed to play and 6-foot-10 import Jason Dixon slowly regaining his top form.

“With the support of the crowd and the improvements of the boys the past few days, we have a good chance of beating them," said Alas, who missed the team’s first two games, including the match against the Slingers due to his commitments with the Letran Knights in the NCAA.

Dixon’s performance in a tune-up match with Smart-Gilas last Wednesday is one reason why Alas is confident of earning a win against the Slingers.

“He’s (Dixon) getting better and better. Hopefully, he can dish out the same performance he did against Smart Gilas," said Alas. “He’s getting back to his old, fighting form."

Admission is free in the RP-Singapore 4 p.m. tussle that’s why Alas is calling all Patriots fans to cheer their hometown team.

Aside from Dixon and Baclao, veterans Rob Wainwright, Edwin Sta, Maria, Froilan Baguion, reinforcement Brandon Powell, and new recruits Elmer Espiritu and Val Acuna are also itching to do their share to secure a victory for the Patriots.

The reported injury of Filipino import Al Vergara (knee injury) is also likely to benefit the Patriots.

Despite Vergara’s absence, the Patriots must be wary against LeBlanc, Kyle Jeffers and Marcus Ng – the same players who scored heavily during their first meeting.

• GMA
• Philippine Sports Central