The SOCCSKSARGEN Marlins may be one of the newest teams in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) but they surely have the heart and the fighting spirit to compete against the 30 other teams in the regional league organized by Sen. Manny Pacquiao with PBA legend Kenneth Duremdes serving as commissioner.
In fact, the Armor on Philippines-supported Marlins hope to create a good first impression under team sponsors Kevin Espinosa and Norm Conti, head coach Biboy Simon and team manager Henry Serrano.
“We’re a new team hoping to make a difference in this MPBL Lakan Cup. With the help of our LGU and our new sponsor, we’re confident we’ll do well,” said Serrano during the 29th TOPS “Usapang Sports” at the National Press Club in Intramuros last Thursday.
SOCCSKSARGEN Marlins MPBL basketball team (photo by Brian Yalung)
Leading the charge of the Marlins are former Talk N Text mainstay Aby Santos, ex-Philippine Christian University standout Ian Garrido, Davao find John Samigue and homegrown stars Mikko Estrellante and Excel Nocos.
Also with the team is ex-PBA star, Norman Gonzales.
Espinosa admitted that the team still has a lot of work to do with the final line-up yet to be completed and their first game against Season 1 runner-up Muntinlupa scheduled on July 12
“Madami pang kailangan ayusin, pero tiwala naman kami sa kakatmyahan ng aming coaching staff, pati na sa aming mga players,” said Espinosa, who took over the team only recently following problems encountered by.original owners.
The Marlins are currently holding practices at the CCP gym in Sta. Mesa.
Asked about the decision of Armon On to support the team, Espinosa said MPBL will be a good advertising venue for the company.
“Malaking opportunity din itong pagsali namin sa sa MPBL para maipakita yun produkto namin na Armon On sportswear. Hopefully magtuloy-tuloy kami,” said Espinosa.
Tags: Kenneth Duremdes , Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League , Manny Pacquiao , MPBL , National Press Club , Pacquiao , PBA , Philippine Christian University , SOCCSKSARGEN Marlins
