NEWCOMER BLACKWATER ELITE TO GIVE RIVALS A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY
This early, Blackwater Elite is gunning for a spot among the PBA’s big guns.
After the squad was formally introduced Tuesday afternoon at the Tao Yuan Restaurant in Malate, head coach Leo Isaac admitted that that they are expecting a tough season, but a top eight finish is already a respectable goal for the expansion squad.
“Pwede naman, though we still need a lot of patience to get to the top eight,” he said. “Basta sa amin, di kami mangangako, pero palagi lang naming gagawin ang lahat ng makakaya namin and try to get the victory every time we play.”
Isaac further praised his wards, led by Jason Ballesteros, Sunday Salvacion, Alex Nuyles, JR Cawaling, and rookie Juami Tiongson, as they provide a lot of positives which can mesh well with his system.
“I have players who can provide the hustle and players na natanggal sa ibang teams who will play hard,” he said. “Eh may kasabihan nga, bilog ang bola, but we will give other PBA teams a run for their money.”
Ever Bilena Inc.CEO and Blackwater team owner Dioceldo Sy also praised Isaac and said that the former Ginebra player will bring the feisty attitude he had while playing for coach Robert Jaworski.
“Coach Leo has been working with us for the last 10 years, and with him being a former Ginebra player, he can bring the never-say-die, fighting spirit to our team in the PBA,” he said.
Sy also admitted that their PBA debut is really one of the most anticipated events for their company this year, saying, “We’re preparing. May countdown nga kami. Nag-start kami prayers sa practice. Slowly nagbi-build up na ng excitement, and hopefully we’re there by opening.” (RL)
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