Starhorse-Basilan is gearing up for a major comeback in Season 7 of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, set to tip off next month.
Co-team owners Jax Chua and Sumisip Mayor Julz Hataman stated that they are doing everything possible to build a highly competitive roster in their quest for the MPBL championship.
“We’re beyond grateful, especially to Starhorse Shipping. Without them, we couldn’t make our return possible. Masaya kami na nakita nila ang full potential ng BARMM, especially Basilan, hindi lang sa basketball but as a key area of growth and expansion,” Chua told Fastbreak.
“We have assembled a team that best represents our values and determination, and I believe we can make a strong run, especially with Starhorse Shipping backing our campaign,” added Hataman.
Bannering the Starhorse-Basilan team are former UAAP players Jervy Cruz, Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Sherwin Concepcion, Enzo Joson, Mario Barasi, Jr., Adi Santos, and James Tempra.
Additionally, the roster includes Lorenzo Navarro, Mon Rogado, Jeff Viernes, CJ Aurellana, Reymar Caduyac, Emman Calo, Gab Dagangon, John Mahari, John Rey Villanueva, Clayton Medenilla, and Clint Doliquez.
Fastbreak learned from a source that the Starhorse-Basilan is also considering the addition of former San Miguel Beermen players Arwind Santos and Alex Cabagnot.
Michael “Mac” Tan will take on the role of head coach for Starhorse-Basilan, supported by assistants Rich Alvarez, Carmelo Navarro, Chelito Caro, and Rob Labagala. Bernard Yang will act as the team manager, while Edison Chua will serve as the team governor.
“I’m proud to bring basketball back to our province. More than winning games, our goal has always been to show the resilience, unity, and fighting spirit of the Basilan people,” said Hataman.
Basilan was one of the expansion teams in the 2018-2019 MPBL season. In 2022, they decided to exit the league and join the Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup.
