Cebuano Rogado plays key role for Batangas in MPBL title conquest

THE JOURNEY had been long and at times, grueling, but Cebuano shooting guard Moncrief Rogado might have finally found a home thousands of miles away from home.

This after he helped lead the Batangas City Athletics to the championship in the inaugural staging of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) on Thursday night.

In their 68-66 win over the Muntinlupa Cagers, the former standout of the University of Cebu led the Athletics in scoring with 14 points, 12 coming in the first half that helped set the tone as they headed to halftime on top, 43-28.

And though he was held in check in the last 20 minutes of action, his early offensive explosion was more than enough to help Batangas finish off Muntinlupa. Afterwards, Rogado cherished being able to get the job done amidst the hostility on their opponents’ home floor.

“It’s a different feeling to be able to do that on their home court. They have very passionate fans who really impact the game. But we were able to capture the title because we stuck to the game plan,” said Rogado, who together with reigning PBA MVP June Mar Fajardo, led UC to its very first Cesafi title back in 2010.

After that Cesafi conquest, Rogado embarked on a journeyman’s career that saw him play as a practice player in the PBA before landing on several teams in the D-League.

However, home may finally be with this Batangas Athletics squad who Rogado has said, already placed him on the “protected nine” list before the league expands next season.

And as much as he wants to return to Cebu to perhaps play in one of the rumored three teams that are trying to join the MPBL next season, Rogado said he will be sticking with the Athletics.

“I’m really grateful to Boss Bong (Tan) and Coach Mac (Tan) for giving me the chance to suit up for their team here,” Rogado said.