It’s going to be a struggle, says Yeng

Gone: Larry Fonacier
Gain: Jojo Duncil, Francis Adriano, Mark Andaya, Brandon Cablay
Mainstays: Mick Pennisi, Cyrus Baguio, Rich Alvarez, Carlo Sharma, Michael Hrabak, Leo Najorda, Topex Robinson, Junthy Valenzuela, Magnum Membrere, Warren Ybanez, Omanzie Rodriguez, Don Camaso

Ever the outspoken, Yeng Guiao, the Red Bull coach, is the first to admit that the coming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) season would be one big
struggle for his team.

“Right now, we’re nowhere picked for the top four positions unlike in past conferences. Ngayon, medyo nasa middle na kami ng pack,” said the
well-liked mentor.

He does have a valid reason.

Already orphaned by former star players Lordy Tugade and Enrico Villanueva, the Bulls lost yet another key player from their champion team of 2006 when ex-Rookie of the Year Larry Fonacier was shipped to San Miguel Beer for the duo of Francis Adriano and Brandon Cablay.

Even worse, back up big man Rich Alvarez went down with an ACL injury during a light 3-on-3 workout with the team in the off-season. The damage meant the former Ateneo stalwart will be away for at least four to six months as he tries to recuperate from the career-threatening injury.

“Malas talaga,” Guiao said. “Although the good thing is that the injury happened during the off-season. Mas mahirap para sa amin kung during the conference nangyari.”

Then again, there’s also something to look forward when the Bulls vie again for the Philippine Cup title that has eluded the franchise time and time again.

Mick Pennisi will man the frontcourt for the team once more after serving time with the RP men’s basketball team.

Jojo Duncil, a second round pick by the Bulls in the Rookie Draft, and Adriano are solid additions to the team’s bunch of deadly wingmen.

And with Villanueva and Tugade gone, high-leaping guard Cyrus Baguio assumes the role as Red Bull’s new go-to-guy.

“All’s not lost for us. At least quarterfinals is a modest target,” Guiao, also Pampanga vice-governor, said.