MikeLigalig.com

Though they are still looking for ways on how to further improve their defensive rotation, Philippine Patriots coach Louie Alas has nevertheless declared their readiness to defend their crown in the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Season 2 which unfurls Saturday in Bangkok, Thailand.

“I’m not yet impressed with our defense, we need to put more teeth to be more competitive,” said Alas. “Still, we’re ready to defend our title. Everybody is excited.”

One of Alas’ concerns is Donald Little who, he said, should be more aggressive at the post to somehow lessen the scoring burden for fellow import Anthony Johnson.

Johnson, a former Sta. Lucia import in the PBA, is expected to be the team’s go-to-guy since he is capable of shooting from afar and penetrating the middle.

“He (Little) should be more aggressive,” said Alas. “We have no problem offensive-wise since my medium-sized players can shoot from the outside.”

Even RP Patriots co-team owner Mikee Romero of Harbour Centre is aware of Alas’ dilemma but he expressed confidence the coaching staff can work on it.

“We have to be a good defensive and running team, that was our formula in winning the title last year,” said Romero, who co-owns the team with businessman Tony Boy Cojuangco. “For us to keep our title, we have to stay that way, fast and furious.”

While the tournament opens Saturday in Bangkok -– featuring the game between the Thailand Slammers and Kuala Lumpur Dragons -– the Patriots start their title-retention bid against the Brunei Barracudas tomorrow at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The Patriots are practically a new squad since only three from last year’s team –- JP Alcaraz, Warren Ybanez and Erwin Sta. Maria -– were retained. The rest are new but they’re all effective role players.

Veteran Allan Salangsang, Chito Jaime, Junjun Cabatu, and Harold Sta. Maria play the 3 and 4 positions but Alas stressed they can pose as an offensive threat to their rivals since they are capable of shooting threes.

Also in the team are shooting guard Benedict Fernandez, Orly Daroya, Egay Billiones, Alex Crisano, Parri Llagas and Kelvin Gregorio. (PNA)

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