Brunei is no pushover – Alas

JONAS TERRADO

October 28, 2009, 6:57pm

The Philippine Patriots is not taking the Brunei Barracudas lightly when both teams collide on Saturday in the resumption of the ASEAN Basketball League action at The Arena in San Juan.

In fact, coach Louie Alas is wary of the capabilities of the Barracudas, who not only have two American imports on their roster but ex-PBA cagers Leo Avenido, Don Camaso, and Kiko Adriano.

Adding more concern is that the Barracudas are led by Filipino coach Bong Ramos, who is no stranger to Alas’ defense-oriented system.

"That's our problem right now, they have at least an idea on how we run our offense and defense. It's now imperative for us to play real tough defense,” said Alas.

Patriots, co-owned by Harbour Centre CEO Mikee Romero and businessman Tony Boy Cojuangco, are sporting a 2-1 record following their 74-61 rout of the Thai Tigers last Sunday.

Brunei is currently in fourth place with a 1-3 record but nearly pulled off a stunning upset last Sunday when it bowed to the unbeaten Singapore Slingers, 82-80, in Bandar Seri Begawan.

The Barracudas’ loss was a stark contrast to their humiliating 87-69 defeat at the hands of the Slingers in their season debut.

"After losing by a huge margin in their first game, they mauled the Malaysians in their next game and they almost beat the Slingers the second time they met," said Alas. "So grabe talaga ang progress nila."

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Source: Manila Bulletin