Aguilas: Tournament favorites Pilipinas Aguilas and Philippine Navy square off Sunday in the main game of the Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) at Mandaluyong City College Science and Technology Gym. The Aguilas are fresh off a 66-55 victory over the New Zealand-Bluefire Valkyries, but head coach Ryan Monteclaro is still expecting a close game with the Navy.
According to Philippines News Agency, Monteclaro commented, “Definitely a tough team to match up against. They have Afril Bernardino, who is really versatile and one of the best in women’s basketball. The team is loaded with shooters like Andrea (Tongco) and Trixie (Antiquera). We hope we can contain them.” The Aguilas are preparing to face a formidable opponent in the Lady Sailors, who are also coming off a win.
The Lady Sailors, coached by Ewon Arayi, are gearing up for the tough battle ahead, despite an easy 70-57 win over the Cavite-TOL Lady Patriots. “Our mindset heading into this game is all about focus, discipline and teamwork. We know this is an early clash of giants, so we’re preparing ourselves both physically and mentally. Our opponents are mostly young but there are also veteran players like Chack Cabinbin and Mar Prado,” Arayi said.
Prado was under Arayi in Adamson University, demonstrating the strong ties and familiarity between the coach and player. Arayi emphasized, “We respect our opponents, but we’re also confident in our training and game plan. Every player is locked in, ready to give their best and committed to executing our strategies. Most importantly, we’ll play with heart, pride and the determination to win.”
Meanwhile, the WMPBL action continues with EZ Jersey taking on Centro Escolar University at 4 p.m., followed by San Juan facing Far Eastern University at 8 p.m.
