THE AIRASIA Philippine Patriots will be out for redemption today as they clash with the Indonesia Warriors in the 3rd AirAsia Asean Basketball League at the San Juan gym.
Still feeling the pain of a stinging 78-70 defeat to the San Miguel Beermen a week ago, the boys of coach Glenn Capacio are expected to start strong in their 4 p.m. showdown.
Capacio said imports Nakiea Miller and Anthony Johnson must also play extraordinary against the team’s former import in 6-foot-10 Steve Thomas to have a better chance of winning. Thomas’ consistent double-double performance helped the Patriots advance to the Finals for the second straight time last year.
Also of great importance is their defense, which needs a little adjustment after being exposed by the taller and heftier San Miguel squad the last time.
Out to provide additional firepower and stability to the team co-owned by sportsmen Tony Boy Cojuangco and Mikee Romero are veterans Al Vergara, Ardy Larong, Warren Ybanes, Eddie Laure and Reed Juntilla.
Aside from Thomas, the Patriots will have to watch out for the Warriors’ other American import in big man Jonathan Smith, former Adamson guard Jerick Canada and ace local Mario Wuysang, last season’s Most Valuable Player.
Like the Patriots, the Warriors are also out to rebound following a 93-80 defeat to the Westports Malaysia Dragons, a team bannered by former PBA players Nick Belasco, Patrick Cabahug and Chris Pacana. Correspondent Jonas Panerio