THE ESTABLISHMENT and subsequent expansion of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) has been a boon for players from the Visayas region as it has given them an avenue to showcase their skills, without having to troop to Manila.
Davao Occidental is all set to become the first team to officially sign up for the south division of the fast-rising league founded by boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao.
On its roster are three players that have seen action in the Cesafi: former University of San Jose-Recoletos guard James Regalado, ex-University of the Visayas ace Eman Calo and former University of Cebu wingman, AJ Asis.
“I am excited. Especially since this is a new league, I am happy to be part of it. Instead of playing in the D-League, this league is another option for basketball players,” said Regalado, a native of Dauin, Negros Oriental, who has seen action in the D-League as well as the professional league in Thailand.
Calo, a high-scoring guard who has also played in the D-League but has spent the past few years barnstorming small-time tournaments across the country, said that this could be the opportunity for him to showcase his talents in the hope that one day, he can suit up for a PBA team.
“This could be the break that we have all been looking for,” said Calo.
Other Cebuanos playing in the MPBL include Mar Villahermosa, Jan Colina, Joseph Airo Nalos and Pacquiao’s cousin, Rene Pacquiao, who are all playing for the Caloocan Supremos. Former PBA star Roger Yap meanwhile, is playing for Manila.
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