Cebuana Lhuillier, Big Chill eye lead

THE Cebuana Lhuillier and the Big Chill train their sights on the top spot as they take on separate opponents today in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup.

The Gems will face DUB Unlimited Wheelers at 4 p.m. while the Superchargers take on RnW Pacific Pipes Steelers at 2 p.m. in a pair of interesting encounters scheduled at the Trinity University of Asia gym.

After an impressive victory against Cobra Energy Drink last Thursday, Cebuana Lhuillier coach Luigi Trillo expects to have their hands full against the Wheelers.

Trillo said DUB Unlimited is still finding its way into the league, but with a roster that includes collegiate standouts like Jeric Teng and veterans Riego Gamalinda, Roel Hugnatan and Raymund Aguilar, the Wheelers will be a tough nut to crack, according to Trillo.

The Gems struggled offensively against Cobra Energy Drink but won the game on defense. Against a team that plays tough and physical, Trillo acknowledged that their defensive artillery will be tested.

A second straight win by Cebuana Lhuillier and Big Chill will enable them to pull abreast with early leader Blackwater (2-0). Big Chill sputtered in the closing minutes of their opening game against Cobra Energy Drink (0-2) last week but still managed to hold off the Iron Men, 82-76. /Correspondent Jonas Panerio

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